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Condemned
Chicago is our city and my brother will make sure that never changes. Being part of the DeCarlo family wasn’t easy or as delightful as it may seem. An arranged marriage sent me into rebellion. Getting involved with a man that my brother would not approve of has flipped my world around. He’s not just older and dangerous to be around but lives and breathes his role as my brother’s Consigliere. We can’t keep our affair a secret for long.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 8, 2024
*ARC review* This was my 1st book by Marianna Buffolino, and let me just start by saying how much I loved the pace of this story! It was fast, but not confusing, and there was all the angst, drama, and 🌶🌶 to make this mafia romance lover happy! The FMC (Bethany) and MMC (Emilio) gave me the perfect forbidden, brother's best friend, age-gap sexy romance, and I couldn't get enough. The side characters pulled me in just as much, which made the drama if it all that much juicier. And...a cliffy?!?! I don't always love an unexpected cliffy, but since I'm legit salivating for the next book, I'd say Marianna Buffolino did one helluva job telling this story!
February 2, 2024
I want to thank the author for selecting me for this ARC. Can we give a round of applause for the pacing of the plot! Never a dull moment! For the girlies that love spice, there is so muchhh in this book. On another note I LOVE when authors name cars the characters drive in the story. For me it paints the full picture, I especially love exotic cars. Okay listen y’all I really liked Hamilton’s character. I think his pairing with Bethany was actually perfect. But I digress because Bethany and Emilio were completely obsessed with each other. Completely!! Oh, and I am intrigued on who the birthmark man is. A couple of major tropes in this book are forbidden romance and age gap. Normally I’m mad at a cliffhanger but I felt like there was so much action going on that it didn’t bother me. It left off at a great part too. I cannot wait for Book 2. I am hoping for an HEA.
Favorite Quote: “Emilio never locked it.”
Favorite Scene In 1-3 Words: Bethany’s wedding
Favorite Quote: “Emilio never locked it.”
Favorite Scene In 1-3 Words: Bethany’s wedding
January 6, 2025
This was a great mix of forbidden love, secret desires, and fighting against her family's expectations. It's a mafia romance filled with angst, drama and passion, with some creative twists and a tense ending.
Read
February 14, 2024Bethany is treated like an errant child by her older and beyond-overbearing brother.
However soon she finds comfort with her "caretaker"
Emilio
What began as an innocent moment of indulgence blossoms into a life-or-death game of secrets
This is a high heat at times erotic forbidden age gap mafia romance (mouth full) with all the twisted moments, secrets, and betrayals you would expect
This ends on a cliffy leaving me with a whole lot of questions!
However soon she finds comfort with her "caretaker"
Emilio
What began as an innocent moment of indulgence blossoms into a life-or-death game of secrets
This is a high heat at times erotic forbidden age gap mafia romance (mouth full) with all the twisted moments, secrets, and betrayals you would expect
This ends on a cliffy leaving me with a whole lot of questions!
May 2, 2025
Loved the forbidden aspect of the relationship.
Bethany and Emilio both wanted each other but became a push and pull situation trying to fight against their feelings (especially Emilio) Cliffhanger certainly kept us in suspense.
Bethany and Emilio both wanted each other but became a push and pull situation trying to fight against their feelings (especially Emilio) Cliffhanger certainly kept us in suspense.
July 29, 2024
OMG Marianna why are you doing this to me, again?! That ending got me more than Fallacy did. I absolutely devoured this book, if it wasn't my work week I would have finished it in a day. I loved reading the book from Bethany's (FMC) POV with a couple of chapters from Emilio (MMC), there were parts of the book that revisited scenes from Fallacy but it easily can be a standalone. What I really have enjoyed about both books is that the FMC's are not afraid to hide their sexual desires, they own it and are not afraid to explore.
I am very much looking forward to her next book!
If you have not read Fallacy or Condemned I highly recommend that you do!
Spice level is a 5/5
Tropes:
Mafia Romance
Arrange Marriage
Age Gap
Forbidden Love
Sex Clubs
I am very much looking forward to her next book!
If you have not read Fallacy or Condemned I highly recommend that you do!
Spice level is a 5/5
Tropes:
Mafia Romance
Arrange Marriage
Age Gap
Forbidden Love
Sex Clubs
November 9, 2024
Condemned is an age-gap, mafia, brother’s best friend romance and it brings all of the spice!
Bethany DeCarlo has spent her whole life being told what to do and who to do it with. As the sister of Chicago’s Mafia Don, she is expected to act a certain way. When her brother, Luca, arranges a marriage for her, she is done trying to be this good girl that her brother wants her to be. Nothing says rebellious like sleeping with your brother’s right hand man. Which is exactly what she does, the thing is Emilio and Bethany can’t seem to get enough of each other despite it being forbidden. With her upcoming nuptials, they both know this can’t last forever but as feelings start to get involved will she be able to go through with the wedding? If Luca finds out about Emilio and Bethany will he k!ll Emilio for sleeping with his little sister?
I feel like I need to start off by saying - the spice was spicing! This was my first time reading a book by Marianna Buffolino so I had no idea what to expect but she was bringing the heat. Aside from the spice, I enjoyed the plot and was surprised by the cliffhanger! I can’t wait to find out what is in store for Bethany and Emilio.
The narration was an absolute experience! I felt so immersed in the story with the sound effects and captivating performances. This was my first time listening to both Katie Thompson and Dan Johnson and they were fantastic! They both gave incredible performances and their accents were amazing. I was so excited when I discovered they also narrate Fallacy, I can’t wait to dive in for another great audiobook experience.
Bethany DeCarlo has spent her whole life being told what to do and who to do it with. As the sister of Chicago’s Mafia Don, she is expected to act a certain way. When her brother, Luca, arranges a marriage for her, she is done trying to be this good girl that her brother wants her to be. Nothing says rebellious like sleeping with your brother’s right hand man. Which is exactly what she does, the thing is Emilio and Bethany can’t seem to get enough of each other despite it being forbidden. With her upcoming nuptials, they both know this can’t last forever but as feelings start to get involved will she be able to go through with the wedding? If Luca finds out about Emilio and Bethany will he k!ll Emilio for sleeping with his little sister?
I feel like I need to start off by saying - the spice was spicing! This was my first time reading a book by Marianna Buffolino so I had no idea what to expect but she was bringing the heat. Aside from the spice, I enjoyed the plot and was surprised by the cliffhanger! I can’t wait to find out what is in store for Bethany and Emilio.
The narration was an absolute experience! I felt so immersed in the story with the sound effects and captivating performances. This was my first time listening to both Katie Thompson and Dan Johnson and they were fantastic! They both gave incredible performances and their accents were amazing. I was so excited when I discovered they also narrate Fallacy, I can’t wait to dive in for another great audiobook experience.
February 6, 2024
SPOILER FREE!
ARC Review: The spice was definitely spicin’ in this one. Lots and lots of spicy scenes. It’s a fast paced read with lots going on. I feel like the plot was good, but also very similar to some other mafia romance books I’ve read. Bethany is your typical mafia princess, super spoiled, but very sheltered in that her brother literally runs her life. She can’t make any decisions for herself or Luca WILL find out about it. Everything she does is monitored and everywhere she goes she is watched. There was never a dull moment where something wasn’t happening almost one right after the other. Bethany’s love interest is COMPLETELY off limits, but no matter what (or who) she does, she can’t get him out of her head. She feels like he is the one part of her life that she has that is just hers and she’s completely head over heels in love with him. He knows it would never work out between them, but keeps seeing her in private anyway. In the end, Bethany makes a major decision in her life to help save her relationship with her brother, help her family, and do what is expected of her as a mafia princess. It’s not what she wants, but it works out for everyone and she can still keep her lover in private. Then… the ending… I loved it and also hated it. It leaves such a cliffhanger with so many things unanswered. I’ll be excited to see what happens in the next book. Overall, enjoyable and fast paced if you like spice and mafia romance. 🥰
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
ARC Review: The spice was definitely spicin’ in this one. Lots and lots of spicy scenes. It’s a fast paced read with lots going on. I feel like the plot was good, but also very similar to some other mafia romance books I’ve read. Bethany is your typical mafia princess, super spoiled, but very sheltered in that her brother literally runs her life. She can’t make any decisions for herself or Luca WILL find out about it. Everything she does is monitored and everywhere she goes she is watched. There was never a dull moment where something wasn’t happening almost one right after the other. Bethany’s love interest is COMPLETELY off limits, but no matter what (or who) she does, she can’t get him out of her head. She feels like he is the one part of her life that she has that is just hers and she’s completely head over heels in love with him. He knows it would never work out between them, but keeps seeing her in private anyway. In the end, Bethany makes a major decision in her life to help save her relationship with her brother, help her family, and do what is expected of her as a mafia princess. It’s not what she wants, but it works out for everyone and she can still keep her lover in private. Then… the ending… I loved it and also hated it. It leaves such a cliffhanger with so many things unanswered. I’ll be excited to see what happens in the next book. Overall, enjoyable and fast paced if you like spice and mafia romance. 🥰
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
February 11, 2024
Marianna Buffolino is a new author, but she has definately burst onto my radar with Condemned.
Mafia Princess Bethany and Consigliere Emilio are a totally forbidden romance and Condemned doesn't finish with a nice neat HEA. It ends with an epiloge that will curls your toes and a huge, unexpected cliffy.
Bethany is the sister of Luca, Chicago's mafia Don and Emilio is his Consigliere any romance between them could only end one way, Emilio dead. But it's easy to feel the heat simmering between Bethany and Emilio even though neither have acted on it. But that changes when Bethany is told she is getting married in an arranged marriage.
Bethany is a real rebel and with Emilio "charged" by her brother to "look after" her there was little doubt that they would scratch the itch. And scratch the itch they do in some edge of your seat steamy scenes. Problem is they both know this can't continue but they can't leave each other alone. Bethany also knows that she will always be under her brothers control.
Condemned cleverly takes you through Bethany's POV with swings and roundabouts, twists and turns and an epiloge that will come up and smack you in the face. I do love a good page turner !! I cannot wait for the next book with so many open storylines I just have to see the end off.
PS. Since reading Condemned I have found Fallacy by Marianna Buffolino which appears to run alongside Condemned (from a timeline POV) so I'm off to get that now
Mafia Princess Bethany and Consigliere Emilio are a totally forbidden romance and Condemned doesn't finish with a nice neat HEA. It ends with an epiloge that will curls your toes and a huge, unexpected cliffy.
Bethany is the sister of Luca, Chicago's mafia Don and Emilio is his Consigliere any romance between them could only end one way, Emilio dead. But it's easy to feel the heat simmering between Bethany and Emilio even though neither have acted on it. But that changes when Bethany is told she is getting married in an arranged marriage.
Bethany is a real rebel and with Emilio "charged" by her brother to "look after" her there was little doubt that they would scratch the itch. And scratch the itch they do in some edge of your seat steamy scenes. Problem is they both know this can't continue but they can't leave each other alone. Bethany also knows that she will always be under her brothers control.
Condemned cleverly takes you through Bethany's POV with swings and roundabouts, twists and turns and an epiloge that will come up and smack you in the face. I do love a good page turner !! I cannot wait for the next book with so many open storylines I just have to see the end off.
PS. Since reading Condemned I have found Fallacy by Marianna Buffolino which appears to run alongside Condemned (from a timeline POV) so I'm off to get that now
February 16, 2024
I wanted to love this book, and large parts of it I did, but then there were just little bits that didn't quite hit the mark for me, plus the fact that it's not your typical romance with a happy ending but one hell of a cliffhanger left me wanting just a little bit more from the story of Bethany.
Bethany is the sister of Mafia boss Luca. She's lived the typical Mafia princess life—sheltered and protected but unhappy with her situation—so she begins to rebel. That rebellion leads to a sexual awakening, which sees her putting herself in some sticky situations—from sex parties to a secret 'no strings attached' affair with her brother's consigliere - only in typical female fashion, she catches feelings.
The entire book, except for one chapter and the prologue, was told from Bethany's POV, and she came across as a little bit of a brat at times. She and Emilio both tried scoring points by flaunting other people in each other's faces, knowing it hurt but acting pettily anyway, and there was a lot of to-and-fro about ending the relationship but then carrying on regardless.
I was still gripped by the story, but mainly because I wanted to see whether Bethany and Emilio could have their happy ending or if they would get caught, and then the cliffhanger happened, leaving me wanting. I'd love to read more about the other sideline characters too, like Luca and Alfie.
Bethany is the sister of Mafia boss Luca. She's lived the typical Mafia princess life—sheltered and protected but unhappy with her situation—so she begins to rebel. That rebellion leads to a sexual awakening, which sees her putting herself in some sticky situations—from sex parties to a secret 'no strings attached' affair with her brother's consigliere - only in typical female fashion, she catches feelings.
The entire book, except for one chapter and the prologue, was told from Bethany's POV, and she came across as a little bit of a brat at times. She and Emilio both tried scoring points by flaunting other people in each other's faces, knowing it hurt but acting pettily anyway, and there was a lot of to-and-fro about ending the relationship but then carrying on regardless.
I was still gripped by the story, but mainly because I wanted to see whether Bethany and Emilio could have their happy ending or if they would get caught, and then the cliffhanger happened, leaving me wanting. I'd love to read more about the other sideline characters too, like Luca and Alfie.
February 14, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
ARC Review
Emilio is the right hand man of Luca DeCarlo the Don of Chicago. After Bethany, Luca's sister starts going to sex parties as a form of rebellion, Emilio saves her from a few dangerous situations and not being able to deny their attraction to each other start a with benefits relationship.
Emilio is clear that he wants no feelings involved, but also doesn't want Bethany to have sex with anyone else, while he sleeps around. He's definitely a hypocrite in that regard. Bethany agrees to a no strings attached relationship, but ends up falling for Emilio anyways. Afraid of the consequences Emilio & Bethany keep their affair a secret even after Bethany is married.
While I understand Bethany's want of freedom, she acts like a brat and puts herself in danger. She thinks Emilio owes her something even though he said he wanted something casual.
The book is very spicy and well written, but there isn't much character development other than the FMC realizing she has to keep her love for the MMC a secret for the better of everyone. I do wish it had more information on the mafia side of the story with what Emilio does, but I think we get that more in Luca's story. Wish it was dual pov instead of just Bethany's.
ARC Review
Emilio is the right hand man of Luca DeCarlo the Don of Chicago. After Bethany, Luca's sister starts going to sex parties as a form of rebellion, Emilio saves her from a few dangerous situations and not being able to deny their attraction to each other start a with benefits relationship.
Emilio is clear that he wants no feelings involved, but also doesn't want Bethany to have sex with anyone else, while he sleeps around. He's definitely a hypocrite in that regard. Bethany agrees to a no strings attached relationship, but ends up falling for Emilio anyways. Afraid of the consequences Emilio & Bethany keep their affair a secret even after Bethany is married.
While I understand Bethany's want of freedom, she acts like a brat and puts herself in danger. She thinks Emilio owes her something even though he said he wanted something casual.
The book is very spicy and well written, but there isn't much character development other than the FMC realizing she has to keep her love for the MMC a secret for the better of everyone. I do wish it had more information on the mafia side of the story with what Emilio does, but I think we get that more in Luca's story. Wish it was dual pov instead of just Bethany's.
February 21, 2024
This is not one of my usual genres of reading, but I was excited to sign up to be an advanced reader and jazz things up a bit while also being able to offer an ARC review. The thing that stood out most to me that makes this story special is Buffalino's originality. The protagonist is craving some erotic action—sure, that is to be expected in this genre—but she is also a member of a powerful mafia family that controls Chicago. The conflict that drives this sexy tale? Bethany is powerless to make her own decisions in the realm of romance and sex. Her brother is the don (boss) of Chicago and repeatedly forces Bethany to cut ties with her boyfriends. When Bethany gets involved with the ultimate off-limits lover, they both risk everything. Buffalino excelled at hooking me at the end, making me wish I could immediately start reading the sequel so that I could find out what happens. Remember, this is absolutely not my usual genre of reading, so to be hooked and wondering what happens next speaks loudly. If you like erotica, and you like danger and original storylines, this story is definitely for you.
February 9, 2024
***ARC REVIEW***
Name: Condemned
Author: Marianna Buffolino
Rate: 4.5 🌟
~Like why do big brothers go to be so controlling!!!!? I felt so bad for Bethany… She can’t even have a boyfriend or at least ease her desires. Bethany just wanted to live a normal life… but also wanted to get punished in bed… wink wink... yes like Dom and sub pleasure!!! Who would have thought that the one that will ease that desire will be her brother’s right hand man!!! Emilio has always been there for her. Always protecting her since she was young… But one fateful night that protection turned into more… He sure took care of Bethany in the way she wanted… But damn they were just so obsessed with each other and it was HOT! Now what's up with that choking cliffhanger!!! Surely can’t wait for the next book!!! There are lots of spicy scenes, non-stop action, plot twists, and sadly some cheating… The reason for that... Well, you still need to read the book. This book will not disappoint… There are even mentions of exotic cars named in this book!! Just Fire!!!
Name: Condemned
Author: Marianna Buffolino
Rate: 4.5 🌟
~Like why do big brothers go to be so controlling!!!!? I felt so bad for Bethany… She can’t even have a boyfriend or at least ease her desires. Bethany just wanted to live a normal life… but also wanted to get punished in bed… wink wink... yes like Dom and sub pleasure!!! Who would have thought that the one that will ease that desire will be her brother’s right hand man!!! Emilio has always been there for her. Always protecting her since she was young… But one fateful night that protection turned into more… He sure took care of Bethany in the way she wanted… But damn they were just so obsessed with each other and it was HOT! Now what's up with that choking cliffhanger!!! Surely can’t wait for the next book!!! There are lots of spicy scenes, non-stop action, plot twists, and sadly some cheating… The reason for that... Well, you still need to read the book. This book will not disappoint… There are even mentions of exotic cars named in this book!! Just Fire!!!
February 7, 2024
🔥ARC REVIEW🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First thank you so much Marianna Buffolino for sending me this book, it was amazing!
Bethany is a woman who wants to just have fun and enjoy life but her brother is protective and gets the final say in pretty much anything she does including who she dates. Emilio is the right hand man to Bethany's brother and he's used to following his orders. But you know how exciting forbidden fruit is right?!
This book was spicy! But I love it so much! Bethany and Emilio's attraction to eachother was so fun to read. The plot throughout the book also made me not want to put it down because so much happens throughout the book I just needed to know what happened! I have so many guesses about who the guy is with the birthmark and I really can't wait to find out! The characters in the book were very well written and I'm hoping you have a book 2 coming because I will be here for it!
Condemned releases on February 14th but is available now for preorder on Amazon. The book will also be available on Kindle Unlimited and the audiobook will be released this year as well!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First thank you so much Marianna Buffolino for sending me this book, it was amazing!
Bethany is a woman who wants to just have fun and enjoy life but her brother is protective and gets the final say in pretty much anything she does including who she dates. Emilio is the right hand man to Bethany's brother and he's used to following his orders. But you know how exciting forbidden fruit is right?!
This book was spicy! But I love it so much! Bethany and Emilio's attraction to eachother was so fun to read. The plot throughout the book also made me not want to put it down because so much happens throughout the book I just needed to know what happened! I have so many guesses about who the guy is with the birthmark and I really can't wait to find out! The characters in the book were very well written and I'm hoping you have a book 2 coming because I will be here for it!
Condemned releases on February 14th but is available now for preorder on Amazon. The book will also be available on Kindle Unlimited and the audiobook will be released this year as well!
February 16, 2024
🌶🌶🌶
Things I loved: A few days later and I'm still consistently thinking about this book and that ending!! The characters and situations made sense with the plot, and it has a good "will they get caught" suspense vibe. I hope there is another book related to these characters!
Things I struggled with: I wish it was longer, the last few chapters included a time jump and I want to know what happened in between!
Summary:
Bethany is tired of living the mafia princess life, having money and privilege is no fun if you have no freedom and have to worry that everything you do is going to upset your brother, the mafia don. Looking for some excitement, especially sexual excitement, she begins a forbidden situationship with Emilio, her brother right hand.
While Bethany begins to fall for him, Emilio works hard to keep her at arms length, but he can't deny how much he wants her too.
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this book!
Things I loved: A few days later and I'm still consistently thinking about this book and that ending!! The characters and situations made sense with the plot, and it has a good "will they get caught" suspense vibe. I hope there is another book related to these characters!
Things I struggled with: I wish it was longer, the last few chapters included a time jump and I want to know what happened in between!
Summary:
Bethany is tired of living the mafia princess life, having money and privilege is no fun if you have no freedom and have to worry that everything you do is going to upset your brother, the mafia don. Looking for some excitement, especially sexual excitement, she begins a forbidden situationship with Emilio, her brother right hand.
While Bethany begins to fall for him, Emilio works hard to keep her at arms length, but he can't deny how much he wants her too.
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this book!
February 18, 2024
✍️ The Italian mafia princess Bethany and the Consigliere Emilio are absolutely obsessed with eachother. To say that these two are both attracted to red flags is an understatement, but red is my favorite colour. I enjoyed this book because like I said it was all about the vibes and the vibes were SPICY AS HELL. Emilio is ordered by Bethany’s brother Luca to protect her and boy did he watch over her. Under her. In her. He was drawn to her rebellious side and she was drawn to his dark side. Their relationship was also sizzling because it is so forbidden. Bethany is someone who wants to break free of her brother’s chains and do something that will make her happy. She was so spunky and open to a lot of things. Especially to our brooding mmc Emilio. This book will take you through Bethany’s POV and the end will make you want to scream!
📕* I received an ARC from the author and Grey’s Promo in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own.
📕* I received an ARC from the author and Grey’s Promo in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own.
February 14, 2024
The DeCarlo Family is known to be ruthless and dangerous running the streets of Chicago! If you have Read Fallacy Entangled then you know that Luca DeCarlo gets involved with Aria in the first book but this story. Is all about Lucas baby sister Bethany and her brothers right hand man! Emilio. A whole roller coaster of emotions with Dark desires are being told as a forbidden love affair happens. With so much jealousy and anger will there ever be an US in the end!
Marianna literally left me on a cliffhanger, now I’m needing book 2 to know what happens next.
Such an amazing story i devoured it I love the fact that it was well written and so understanding, Marianna has a way of capturing your attention in her story telling. She keeps you stuck on her books. I cannot wait for book 2 this is by far my best Dark Mafia Romance of 2024!
Marianna literally left me on a cliffhanger, now I’m needing book 2 to know what happens next.
Such an amazing story i devoured it I love the fact that it was well written and so understanding, Marianna has a way of capturing your attention in her story telling. She keeps you stuck on her books. I cannot wait for book 2 this is by far my best Dark Mafia Romance of 2024!
February 15, 2024
Bethany (FMC) is the sister of Chicago’s Mafia Don. Her life may be privileged but it wasn’t as easy as it would seem. An arranged marriage sends her down a rebellious path. She secretly becomes involved with her brother’s consigliere Emilio (MMC), but how long can they keep it a secret?
Not much world building needed since we are present day Chicago. The pace of the story is perfect, there is plenty of angst and chemistry between our characters. Our FMC is a typical spoiled mafia princess who is overprotected and therefore rebellious to act out against her brother. Her brother Luca was very difficult for me to like because he was so controlling, overprotective, and unwilling to compromise. Emilio is Luca’s right hand man and does most of the dirty work. He is dark, broody, and thinks she deserves better so constantly pushes her away but can’t seem to tell her no.
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received this book for free in return for my honest review.
Not much world building needed since we are present day Chicago. The pace of the story is perfect, there is plenty of angst and chemistry between our characters. Our FMC is a typical spoiled mafia princess who is overprotected and therefore rebellious to act out against her brother. Her brother Luca was very difficult for me to like because he was so controlling, overprotective, and unwilling to compromise. Emilio is Luca’s right hand man and does most of the dirty work. He is dark, broody, and thinks she deserves better so constantly pushes her away but can’t seem to tell her no.
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received this book for free in return for my honest review.
February 17, 2024
Condemned by Marianna Buffolino was so spicy, good, it left me on a cliff hanger 😫!! If you like age gap, mafia and forbidden romance you will like this book. Told mainly from Bethany’s POV and some from Emilio.
Bethany DeCarlo is a mafia princess for the DeCarlo mafia family run by her brother Luca. Bethany a rebel who doesn’t like to do what she’s told falls for Luca’s right hand man Emilio. She falls hard for Emilio and as much as he is falling for her he knows a romance between them is forbidden.
There is so much that happens in this book, twists, turns, and so much spiciness!! For me this book keeps you hooked from the very first page to the end. I liked the characters from the push and pull between Bethany and Emilio, to watching Luca struggle falling for someone new after losing his wife. I have to know what happens it’s a struggle being left in limbo!! Thank you to Marianna Buffolino and Grey’s Promotion for giving me this ARC for my honest thoughts and opinions. Can’t wait for the next book!!
Bethany DeCarlo is a mafia princess for the DeCarlo mafia family run by her brother Luca. Bethany a rebel who doesn’t like to do what she’s told falls for Luca’s right hand man Emilio. She falls hard for Emilio and as much as he is falling for her he knows a romance between them is forbidden.
There is so much that happens in this book, twists, turns, and so much spiciness!! For me this book keeps you hooked from the very first page to the end. I liked the characters from the push and pull between Bethany and Emilio, to watching Luca struggle falling for someone new after losing his wife. I have to know what happens it’s a struggle being left in limbo!! Thank you to Marianna Buffolino and Grey’s Promotion for giving me this ARC for my honest thoughts and opinions. Can’t wait for the next book!!
February 13, 2024
Wow.
I was hooked on this book from the get go. I love how you just jump right into the story and still get your background information as the story progresses, it just makes sense!
Bethany is a ballsy bitch and I love that for her. She has some really interesting relationships for sure, you have to read to know what I mean.
Luca…of course he ends up having feelings for the one person he should not, after swearing off marriage and women, he just has to end up in such a complicated situation.
THE CLIFFHANGER ENDING?! AHHHHHHHH!!!! I need the next book ASAP!
Marianna, you absolutely killed this book! I’m a fan for life and I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for your readers!
I was hooked on this book from the get go. I love how you just jump right into the story and still get your background information as the story progresses, it just makes sense!
Bethany is a ballsy bitch and I love that for her. She has some really interesting relationships for sure, you have to read to know what I mean.
Luca…of course he ends up having feelings for the one person he should not, after swearing off marriage and women, he just has to end up in such a complicated situation.
THE CLIFFHANGER ENDING?! AHHHHHHHH!!!! I need the next book ASAP!
Marianna, you absolutely killed this book! I’m a fan for life and I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for your readers!
February 14, 2024
This is Emillio and Bethany’s story.
Bethany is a spoiled mafia princess, and her brother Luca is a Chicago don, who controls her life. Emillio is Luca’s right hand man, and there is an instant attraction between them. What will happen when Luca discovers their secret?
This is a well written fast paced story, which is an emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, secrets, angst, an arranged marriage, forbidden romance, action, drama, obsession, an age gap, intrigue, tension, loyalty, twists and turns, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner, which ends in an unexpected cliffhanger.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
Bethany is a spoiled mafia princess, and her brother Luca is a Chicago don, who controls her life. Emillio is Luca’s right hand man, and there is an instant attraction between them. What will happen when Luca discovers their secret?
This is a well written fast paced story, which is an emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, secrets, angst, an arranged marriage, forbidden romance, action, drama, obsession, an age gap, intrigue, tension, loyalty, twists and turns, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner, which ends in an unexpected cliffhanger.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
May 20, 2024
Bethany & Emilio
Your brother's consigliere isn’t the best choice to have an affair with.
Bethany feels trapped in this life. Being the sister of the Chicago Don isn’t always fun. Even though everyone tells her that she should be thankful for her privileges and the amount of luxury she lives in. I get that she feels trapped. All though I must say she has more freedom than you would expect within the mafia world. This story has some spicy moments, a sex club, smutty scenes but it’s all about wanting more. Taking risks and making choices you know will backfire one day. You know it’s only a matter of time before something bad will happen.
I can’t wait to read further because we end with a massive cliffhanger.
Your brother's consigliere isn’t the best choice to have an affair with.
Bethany feels trapped in this life. Being the sister of the Chicago Don isn’t always fun. Even though everyone tells her that she should be thankful for her privileges and the amount of luxury she lives in. I get that she feels trapped. All though I must say she has more freedom than you would expect within the mafia world. This story has some spicy moments, a sex club, smutty scenes but it’s all about wanting more. Taking risks and making choices you know will backfire one day. You know it’s only a matter of time before something bad will happen.
I can’t wait to read further because we end with a massive cliffhanger.
February 17, 2024
📔 ARC BOOK REVIEW 📔
Tropes
💗Mafia Romance
💗Arrange Marriage
💗Age gap
💗Forbidden Love
💗Sex Clubs
📖 review
I was lucky enough to get an physical arc with some awesome goodies inside to that I loved!!! The first chapter was unexpected and I loved it!! Very unique from all the other books I have read! The way her brother acts kinda pisses me off like dude let her live the way she wants to. And that first arranged marriage pissed me off wayyy more like dude what the fuck. But he kinda redeemed himself. Keyword kinda. Than a whole bunch of things that happens inside this book made me scream like crazy.. like what did I just read. I NEED THE SECOND BOOK NOW!!!
Tropes
💗Mafia Romance
💗Arrange Marriage
💗Age gap
💗Forbidden Love
💗Sex Clubs
📖 review
I was lucky enough to get an physical arc with some awesome goodies inside to that I loved!!! The first chapter was unexpected and I loved it!! Very unique from all the other books I have read! The way her brother acts kinda pisses me off like dude let her live the way she wants to. And that first arranged marriage pissed me off wayyy more like dude what the fuck. But he kinda redeemed himself. Keyword kinda. Than a whole bunch of things that happens inside this book made me scream like crazy.. like what did I just read. I NEED THE SECOND BOOK NOW!!!
June 10, 2024
Bethany (FMC) is the sister of Chicago’s Mafia Don. Her life may be privileged, but it wasn’t as easy as it would seem. An arranged marriage sends her down a rebellious path. She secretly becomes involved with her brother’s consigliere Emilio (MMC), but how long can they keep it a secret? I loved this book, and I recommend it, but it is a cliffhanger that leaves you speechless.
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in, and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.
Also posted review with blog Sassy Southern Book Blog
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in, and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.
Also posted review with blog Sassy Southern Book Blog
February 3, 2024
Mint and eucalyptus is about to be my new fragrance 😘.
Oooooooooooooooooo Bethany and Emilio’s story had me in a chokehold and I was fine if I stopped breathing.
The spice was spicing, and I mean SPICING 🥵, but the plot… omg was it phenomenal! I could not put this book down! I don’t even think I slept as I just needed to live in this world.
I cried, laughed, threw my book, literally all the emotions and jaw drops. 5 stars and 5 chili peppers to this read! I need more from these characters and so many answers 🫶🏼.
Oooooooooooooooooo Bethany and Emilio’s story had me in a chokehold and I was fine if I stopped breathing.
The spice was spicing, and I mean SPICING 🥵, but the plot… omg was it phenomenal! I could not put this book down! I don’t even think I slept as I just needed to live in this world.
I cried, laughed, threw my book, literally all the emotions and jaw drops. 5 stars and 5 chili peppers to this read! I need more from these characters and so many answers 🫶🏼.
February 18, 2024
Bethany (FMC) is the sister of Chicago’s Mafia Don. Her life may be privileged but it wasn’t as easy as it would seem. An arranged marriage sends her down a rebellious path. She secretly becomes involved with her brother’s consigliere Emilio (MMC), but how long can they keep it a secret? I loved this book and I recommend it but it is a cliffhanger that leaves you speechless.
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.- Kristina
The surprise cliffhanger at the end almost did me in and I can’t wait to read more of the story. Tropes included are forbidden romance, age gap, cheating, and arranged marriage.- Kristina
February 14, 2024
She has done it again with another 5 star read! Bethany is the FMC and she is a total brat who knows what she wants but her brother Luca isn’t a fan of her being with anyone… but she happens to fall for Lucas partner in the “mafia” world. They keep their “sexy times” from everyone thinking they wont get caught…little did they know she was having to get married into an arranged marriage her brother sets up! But that cant keep Bethany from him…That ending was torture I need more!!
February 19, 2024
This is the first time reading this author and I was not disappointed! Bethany and Emilio are 🔥. I’m LIVING for them! Emilio is your morally grey man and Bethany is your bratty mafia princess. They are all kinds of wrong for each other yet you are rooting for them anyway. The side characters are entertaining and I see the authors other book Fallacy is based in the same world. I know what my next read is!
May 29, 2024
My Rating 4.5/5
My Thoughts: Bethany DeCarlo is the Don's younger sister. She is trying to break free from her expectations and enjoy her life and sexuality. Emilio is her brother's right-hand man. Together they have a long heated affair. Bethany is constantly finding ways to act out and push Emilio's buttons. This book is extra spicy, is an age-gap, brother's best friend, and forbidden romance. I enjoyed this book and was not expecting that cliffhanger. I need the next book!!!
My Thoughts: Bethany DeCarlo is the Don's younger sister. She is trying to break free from her expectations and enjoy her life and sexuality. Emilio is her brother's right-hand man. Together they have a long heated affair. Bethany is constantly finding ways to act out and push Emilio's buttons. This book is extra spicy, is an age-gap, brother's best friend, and forbidden romance. I enjoyed this book and was not expecting that cliffhanger. I need the next book!!!
July 15, 2024
This audiobook was like watching a movie 🤌🏽 The sound effects really enhanced the listening experience! I don’t know how I’ll go back to regular ones!
I was so excited for Bethany’s story after Fallacy and it did not disappoint! Her and Emilio’s forbidden love is so addicting. I am routing for them hardcore!!
Also the spice was spicing!! And with the sounds effects, so good!!
I can’t wait for the next one!
I was so excited for Bethany’s story after Fallacy and it did not disappoint! Her and Emilio’s forbidden love is so addicting. I am routing for them hardcore!!
Also the spice was spicing!! And with the sounds effects, so good!!
I can’t wait for the next one!
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