Twisted Tides

Forged Hearts #2

by L. Renee Richard

Three of the hardest things I have ever had to do:

Not being able to protect my family from Julian.

Breaking a promise to my sister.

Pretending I was dead.

The tides turned the day Julian took everything from us.
My only regret is that I wasn't able to save my parents. My sister thinks I died in that fire, but it was necessary to save her life.

My heart twisted, grieving at seeing her alone and at his mercy. I’ve been watching from afar, waiting and biding my time. All of the secrets and twisted lies will come to light.

The element of surprise will be his demise. But exacting revenge doesn’t come without consequences. Now it’s time to finish this war we've started.

Now, reunited with my sister and our families, how far will we go to win it all?

Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2024

About the author

L. Renee Richard is a Hispanic author who lives in rural New England with her family. She’s a born and raised South Texan girl who implements BIPOC characters into her books, imbued with her cherished Hispanic culture. She is an avid reader, complete with her never-ending TBR, and a romantic at heart who appreciates a strong female main character and a good book boyfriend in the books she reads or writes. She loves summers in New England, sitting on the beach with a book, driving with the windows down through rural roads on cool autumn nights, and iced matcha lattes. Her books promise angsty romance where the journey to a happily ever after isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the trip. 

Reviews

[Lindsay Beaudry · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Perfect Conclusion to an Unforgettable Duology!

The final book in this thrilling mafia romance duology, centered around Evie and Jameson, is nothing short of spectacular! From the very first page, the chemistry between these two characters is electric, and the author doesn’t hold back on the spice and tension that keeps you glued to every word.

Evie, with her fierce spirit and resilience, shines even brighter in this book as she navigates the dangerous world she’s been thrust into from a young age growing up with mafia ties. Jameson, is the perfect balance of strength and vulnerability. Their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with passion, danger, and moments that will make your heart race.

What truly sets this book apart is the suspense. Just when you think you know what’s coming, a twist hits you out of nowhere. The stakes are higher, the danger more imminent, and every chapter leaves you hanging on for dear life. Yet, amidst the chaos, the romance never falters. Evie and Jameson’s love story is beautifully crafted, and their chemistry feels real and raw.

The ending is everything you could hope for—satisfying, heartwarming, and perfectly tied together. It’s the kind of conclusion that makes you want to re-read the entire series just to experience their journey all over again.

If you’re looking for a mafia romance that has the perfect mix of spice, suspense, and an epic love story, this is the one to devour! Absolutely unforgettable!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of the Forged Hearts Series.

So much intrigue, intensity, heat!
Fantastic characters and world building!

Should I talk about how hard it was to put down?
It was.
Every spare minute I had I was picking it back up!

I enjoyed the Forged Heart series so much, I'd love to read them again back-to-back in the future!

I love mafia romance and I have now found another talented author to follow!

Thanks for a very exciting, satisfying read!!!

[Amy Melendez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book from the author.

I absolutely loved this series! It has everything I enjoy, from murder mysteries to spicy love story, all in one great book. Each book left me on the edge of my seat wanting more, and even though the author wrapped up the series nicely, I still didn't want the story to end! I was hooked, I would definitely give this book a 10/10 rating.

[Roo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read! I enjoyed learning about the characters and the world that we are taken into! Murder and mayhem are prevalent throughout and I think this is an interesting read for anyone who enjoys books with the mafia!

4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2🌶️🌶️

[Missy Reads Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It was a great finish to the first book! Evie and Jameson’s relationship is so good! ❤️🔥 I also love how protective Eduardo is with Emma! This is one of my first mafia books, and I can’t believe I waited so long to dive into this genre! I’m eager to read more by this author!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twisted Tides by L. Renee Richard is the conclusion to the story of Jameson and Evie. Things start out a little messy here! So much happening in this mafia world…things that no one can control or foresee!! The tension between these two is palpable!! The story is rife with danger, intrigue, and multiple twists and turns!! Never a dull moment here! Nice wrap up to this shocking story and exciting couple!!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this book!! Keeps you wanting more throughout the novel. 🔥 🔥 🔥

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect ending to this duology! Richard does it again with bringing the books together and finishing the love story! Highly recommend this read if you enjoy mafia type romance!

[Jennifer Beaudry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! The perfect blend of dark romance and mafia.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black wave was good, but this was great! The chemistry between the FMC and MMC was hot! Perfect ending to the series!!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing ending to this Mafia romance. L Renee has done it again. I can't wait to see what the future has in store

[Lena Duke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great story! I haven't read book 1 in this series so that's a mistake on my part but I will definitely be reading it soon so I can have the full story!

I loved Evie and Jameson. Everything about them was perfect; the chemistry between them flies off the pages. The spice… is definitely spicin’. I found it hard to put this down once I started.

If you’re looking for a book that’s got murder, twist after twist, mafia, and something that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat guessing, this is it!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 Jameson & Evie story
Evie has been reunited with her sister & Emma meets her brother this book keeps you on high alert you just don’t know what’s going to happen next loved the storyline and characters
Would recommend it x

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh yes! What a perfect way to end the duet!!! L. Did the thing with this! She gives you murder mayhem twists, and turns!!! Spice and mafia ! 5 stars isn't even what this is worth it is so much more! I was consumed and obsessed by this! Seriously, Evie and Jameson are everything you want!!!

[Kacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great way to wrap up the duet, leaving me completely satisfied yet wanting more at the same time. Evie and Jameson are the ideal book couple—the kind you can’t help but root for. Their chemistry is electric, and their dynamic kept me hooked from start to finish.

The book delivers on all of my favorite elements: murder, mayhem, twists and turns that keep you guessing, and of course, mafia men. And let’s not forget the spice—there’s plenty of it, and it’s perfectly woven into the story without overshadowing the plot.

If you love a story with intense action, passionate romance, and characters that practically jump off the page, this is the perfect read. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last page.

[Allison Comis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the continuation of Emma’s story. Her and Eduardo were at the concert he bought her tickets for. She went to the bathroom before leaving the concert. Cherry was in the bathroom and told her she needed to go with her. There was a commotion out front and Eduardo couldn’t see Emma. Jameson was nearby waiting for his date that stood him up. He immediately contacted Jameson to look at his tracking system so they knew where she was. Before they got there she pushed her SOS feature and they rushed over. Julian had Emma tied up and Cherry stood behind her in a threatening manner. There were some major events that unfolded after that. Must read this series. Really good book. Can’t wait to read more from L Renee.

[Jenn M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this Read!



This is Ellie’s story, and Matteo’s to an extent. My heart broke for these siblings and all they had to endure. I loved how James was able to recognize the broken pieces in Ellie and how he helped piece them back together. I really need Matteo’s story and hope he gets one.


As with every book I have read from this author, the storyline was engulphing. I couldn’t put it down. I read until my eyes couldn’t stay opened and woke up with my kindle on my face and instead of putting it away, I took the energy that rest gave me and started reading again instead of going back to sleep. I highly recommend this book!

[blushingbibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5

Twisted Tides is the captivating last installment in the Forged Hearts Series that kept me turning pages late into the night! The blend of intrigue, passion, and high stakes creates a thrilling atmosphere that is hard to resist.

In this book, we dive deeper into the complexities of Evie and Jameson. Evie's growth is impressive as she confronts her past and navigates the treacherous waters of her mafia ties. Jameson remains a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability, and their chemistry is electric, with plenty of moments that made my heart race. As for the spicier scenes...let's just say you'll feel their effects somewhere other than your heart😉

What I appreciated the most was the unpredictability of the plot. Just when I thought that I had things figured out, a twist would emerge, adding layers of suspense that kept me hooked. The romance is intense and beautifully written, making their journey feel authentic and relatable.

If you're a fan of mafia romance filled with tension, emotional depth, and engaging characters, Twisted Tides is definitely a book you don't want to miss!

🌊Mafia Romance
🌊Dark Romance
🌊S3x Club
🌊Stalking
🌊Touch Her & 💀
🌊Interracial Relationship

[Éireann S · Rating 4 out of 5]

This duet is a mafia romance with twist and turns throughout. This book concludes the story of Jameson and Evie. Evie has been forced to hide out after faking her death to keep her safe. So now she is separated from her twin but discovers a secret brother she never knew she had. The two hide in the shadows watching Emma, Evie’s twin. During this time Evie has also met Jameson whom she has an instant connection to but her hidden identity makes a relationship difficult. Eventually in this book the secret is out and everyone knows Evie is alive. Now the three siblings, as well as all their friends are ready to take down the Martinez family once and for all and get revenge for what they have done to Evie and Emma. This book is filled with twists, spicy scenes as well as some well written characters. Definitely enjoyed this book.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd story in the Forged Hearts Duet where Evie uses her profound loss to seek revenge against those who caused her pain. On that fateful night Evie barely escapes and is shocked her guardian angel is not just a stranger but her brother. Living life in the shadows watching over her sister Emma, they both become close and surprisingly Evie meets a handsome man, Jameson who turns out to be the one who can help heal her. Jameson is not directly part of her mafia world but lives on the outside helping Eduardo whose involvement has Emma’s life in danger. Evie and Jameson find their chemistry is something worth exploring and Jameson shows his protectiveness of Evie. There are twist, secrets, revenge, murders, romance and family and friends coming together!

[Neshaisabookworm’s Book Review · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting read

3 great stars!

10/10 do recommend.

This was not what I was expecting at all.

It had good bones, the blurb and cover ensnared me, somewhere in the writing I got lost in the sauce.

I loved the characters, the plot was wild and entertaining, the writing just wasn't for me this time.

I would 100% still recommend this book, why? Because it's a great read. A book can be great and still not hit just right because reading is subjective. It's Person specific.

I loved all of the twists and turns. It was definitely an interesting read.

I would read the other books in the series because I love do finish a series if I can.

[Jessica Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in this series really kicks up the hot romance a notch! I thought it would be hard to beat Emma and Julian’s chemistry in book 1 but Evie and Jamison hit it out of the park. The author introduces some new characters in the opening of the book which really threw me for a loop but I persevered and really glad I did. She promptly explains where these people fit in and goes on to weave a very twisty and suspenseful plot. Glad I took a chance on L Renee Richard’s Book 2 Forged Heart series! The ending was spectacular!

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this impressive series and this is Evie and Jameson’s story.
This is a well written east to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, regrets, danger, suspense, intrigue, loss, grief, tension, mystery, secrets, twisted lies, revenge, consequences, undeniable chemistry, unexpected twists, and unconditional love, which leads to a spicy, entertaining, and captivating, dark mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twisted Tides is book two of the Forged Hearts Series.

We finally get to see Evie's story. I was very excited to see where this was going to take us. We pick up where we left off, but we also get to see some of the backstory with Evie. We finally understand the events of her life up to this point.

I enjoyed the action, the mystery and the intrigue. There were a lot of moving parts and sometimes I wasn't sure who to trust. It was an exciting read.

[Leta Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a ride.

This story was full of suspense from the first page and it never stopped. Starting off where book 1 ended it tells the story of Evie and the sacrifices she made to keep her family safe. On the run from the mafia she constantly is having to look over her shoulder. Her love interest Jameson is smitten by the mysterious lady in a mask.

This story also doesn’t skimp on the spice, like, at all. If you’re looking for a spicy mafia read I found you one!

[Alicia Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the conclusion to Emma and Eduardo’s story but is more about Evie and Jameson. It has a lot of potential. Everything it’s about and everything they go through was so good but for some reason I kept finding myself kinda skim over parts of the book, it didn’t really draw me in like I was expecting it to from the blurb. There is spice, it’s a mafia romance and this is a dark romance so MIND YOUR TRIGGERS!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Personal Review, No Spoilers, & a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read by ME!

What a great read by the Author. I enjoyed her writing style and it definitely was a roller skating rink of emotions. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed reading about Jameson and Evie. They definitely had chemistry. This was a very good Mafia read. I am looking forward to get next story.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twisted Tides wraps up Jameson and Evie's story. It's the perfect combo of intrigue, twists, turns, surprises, danger, chaos and excitement. Chemistry between these characters is off the charts HOT and it's a Mafia story. What more do ya need?

[Victoria Wyatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well well Jameson and Evie had me. This was one of those Mafia stories that catches your attention easily. There was so much going on and I am so here for it. The unexpected twists and intensity between the MCs. This author is new to me and look forward to more reads.

[Heather Emery · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book in the "Forged Hearts" duet. Loved this book it was so hard to put down. There was murder and love, danger, twists and turns. The ending of this series was amazing. Great way to end an amazing series.

PLOT. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE. 🌶🌶