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The Moretti Empire #2
Tragic Empire
Cassio and Ana's story, blurb coming soon...
Unknown Binding
Published April 11, 2025
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4468 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
October 22, 2025
GIVE ME COLTON AND NICO'S BOOK RIGHT. FUCKING. NOW!!!!!!!!
➺ Safety:
No virgins / MMC not a manho
They're both each other's second relationship
He had a wife who died in childbirth, and while he did love her, there was no comparison or weird treatment toward the FMC (Ana) because of it. He was obsessed with Ana from the very start.
No OW drama.
-~-
Reading this book in prep for book 3 :) I somehow convinced Sumi to buddy read with me, and I hope it does not let us down. Can't wait to be reunited with Jade and Dimitri. 🤭
➺ Safety:
No virgins / MMC not a manho
They're both each other's second relationship
He had a wife who died in childbirth, and while he did love her, there was no comparison or weird treatment toward the FMC (Ana) because of it. He was obsessed with Ana from the very start.
No OW drama.
-~-
Reading this book in prep for book 3 :) I somehow convinced Sumi to buddy read with me, and I hope it does not let us down. Can't wait to be reunited with Jade and Dimitri. 🤭
April 27, 2025
Couldn’t put this down!!
I’d like to start this review by saying a massive thank you to K.L Mann for letting me read this🥹 Ever since I’ve read Hidden Empire I’ve been rereading it non-stop, I fell in love with all the characters and their traits💕 I’m so honoured to of received this ARC and I know you are all going to love it!!
Now, I don’t want to do any spoilers but the first two chapters will have you in tears. Was definitely not expecting this start to the second book and the dedication has me bawling 💔 Chapter 2 honestly just broke my heart but I know it’s for the build up of the book 💪
20% in- How this book wrote is beautiful and so thought out, the amount of detail into the emotions in so realistic. Ana and Cassio were a perfect match, they both needed to heal from grief and to do that, they needed eachother.
Ana is such a strong, independent character and I love her for that. After everything she’s been through she is still considerate and holding her head up high!
Cassio is by far my favourite MMC, he has had many struggles and this marriage has been a giant leap for him but he’s doing it all for Ana. Bonding over their losses and being eachothers saviour. They brought life to eachother.
Cassio is loyal, trusting and selfless. He puts everyone first and will do anything for the people he loves. He’s the strongest character and the proof is how he’s developed over the years.
I honestly believed Tragic Empire couldn’t be better than Hidden Empire which I absolutely loved, it was hard to beat but Tragic Empire did it. I was not expecting it to be my favourite but it definitely is! The story, plot, twists and development was written amazingly and I cannot hype this book up enough!!
I loved how we got to see more of the Morretti Family, I absolutely adore all the siblings and find them hilarious!! Enjoyed getting to know more about Colton and Armani and their jokes😆
I did not want this book to end, it’s everything I wanted and I can’t wait for book 3!! Thankfully I got to know the characters featuring the next two books and I can tell it’s going to be hard to put one of the books at first place!!
There were a lot of twists, cute moments and memories in this book and it honestly made me cry. A rollercoaster of emotions and left me giggling and kicking my feet 🤭
I HIGHLY recommend this if you loved Hidden Empire as much as I did, (I read it non-stop for a year😆) ♥️
Can’t wait for the next book♥️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’d like to start this review by saying a massive thank you to K.L Mann for letting me read this🥹 Ever since I’ve read Hidden Empire I’ve been rereading it non-stop, I fell in love with all the characters and their traits💕 I’m so honoured to of received this ARC and I know you are all going to love it!!
Now, I don’t want to do any spoilers but the first two chapters will have you in tears. Was definitely not expecting this start to the second book and the dedication has me bawling 💔 Chapter 2 honestly just broke my heart but I know it’s for the build up of the book 💪
20% in- How this book wrote is beautiful and so thought out, the amount of detail into the emotions in so realistic. Ana and Cassio were a perfect match, they both needed to heal from grief and to do that, they needed eachother.
Ana is such a strong, independent character and I love her for that. After everything she’s been through she is still considerate and holding her head up high!
Cassio is by far my favourite MMC, he has had many struggles and this marriage has been a giant leap for him but he’s doing it all for Ana. Bonding over their losses and being eachothers saviour. They brought life to eachother.
Cassio is loyal, trusting and selfless. He puts everyone first and will do anything for the people he loves. He’s the strongest character and the proof is how he’s developed over the years.
I honestly believed Tragic Empire couldn’t be better than Hidden Empire which I absolutely loved, it was hard to beat but Tragic Empire did it. I was not expecting it to be my favourite but it definitely is! The story, plot, twists and development was written amazingly and I cannot hype this book up enough!!
I loved how we got to see more of the Morretti Family, I absolutely adore all the siblings and find them hilarious!! Enjoyed getting to know more about Colton and Armani and their jokes😆
I did not want this book to end, it’s everything I wanted and I can’t wait for book 3!! Thankfully I got to know the characters featuring the next two books and I can tell it’s going to be hard to put one of the books at first place!!
There were a lot of twists, cute moments and memories in this book and it honestly made me cry. A rollercoaster of emotions and left me giggling and kicking my feet 🤭
I HIGHLY recommend this if you loved Hidden Empire as much as I did, (I read it non-stop for a year😆) ♥️
Can’t wait for the next book♥️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 13, 2025
4.75/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
- Mafia romance
- Dark romance
- Marriage of convenience
- Best friend’s brother
- Touch him/her & you 💀
- Found family
This was a breath of fresh air, especially where mafia romance is concerned! 🥹 This is not the typical, recycled story that I unfortunately feel I read a lot with mafia romance books. Ava & Cassio’s story was so unique & special!
Both of the main character’s have gone through great loss and were brought together through a marriage of convenience that quickly turned into so much more.
These two NEEDED each other. 😩🙌🏼
I also love all of the side characters and can’t wait for more spin offs!
3/5 🌶️
Tropes & what to expect:
- Mafia romance
- Dark romance
- Marriage of convenience
- Best friend’s brother
- Touch him/her & you 💀
- Found family
This was a breath of fresh air, especially where mafia romance is concerned! 🥹 This is not the typical, recycled story that I unfortunately feel I read a lot with mafia romance books. Ava & Cassio’s story was so unique & special!
Both of the main character’s have gone through great loss and were brought together through a marriage of convenience that quickly turned into so much more.
These two NEEDED each other. 😩🙌🏼
I also love all of the side characters and can’t wait for more spin offs!
February 7, 2026
Ate this up! 🤌🏼
May 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5 but emotionally a full 10/10)
Okay, first of all… WOW 😭🔥. Where do I even start with Tragic Empire? This book grabbed me by the face, screamed at me, hugged me, then threw me off a cliff—in the best way possible 🫠. If you like dramatic mafia love stories full of emotional damage 💔, sass 😈, chaos 🌀, and a touch of pure unhinged behavior 🤪, this book is for YOU.
Before you even think about starting this book, let me say one thing: get your tissues ready 🧻. I'm serious. I was crying my eyes out 😭 before I even made it past chapter two. K.L. Mann did not come to play—she came to break hearts 💔 and build emotional trauma 🧨.
Let’s just start with this: the dedication of the book literally says “for all the characters who had to die to make this story possible. I’m so sorry.” And I was like “oh no” 😬... and then OH NO 😱 because this book HURTS 🫠.
So let’s talk about Ana. My girl Ana is going through it 🫣. Like… she’s been through absolute hell loss, betrayal, trauma. you name it 💥. But does she sit in a corner and cry? Well, okay, yes she does cry a bit 😢. But then she stands up, wipes those tears, and turns into a whole menace 🗡️. And we LOVE her for it 💅. She’s angry, she's grieving, and she's out for blood 🩸. She’s putting trackers on people, threatening waitresses, and stabbing folks in the neck like it’s just another Tuesday 🔪. Honestly? Iconic behavior 👑.
And then there’s Cassio. Oh Cassio 😮💨. Soft on the inside, deadly on the outside. This man is basically a walking “do not mess with my woman or I’ll ruin your whole bloodline” type of guy 💣, and I ate that UP 🍽️. He’s protective, loyal, and the way he falls for Ana? Chef’s kiss 👨🍳💋. He doesn’t just love her—he worships her 🙇. He is so sweet and dangerous and emotionally wrecked, and we absolutely love a broken man in a suit with a heart of gold 🖤.
Together? Cassio and Ana are chaos and comfort rolled into one 💥🫶. Their relationship is born from pain, but it grows into something so deep and intense that I was kicking my feet and screaming 🥹🫠. They're not soft—they're possessive 💀. They're “I’ll kill for you” and “I’ll die with you” levels of obsessed 🔥. Honestly? Soulmates, but make it mafia 💍🔫.
Their romance? Off the charts 📈. They don’t fall in love slowly they crash into it like a train going 200 mph 🚂💥. And once they're in it? Oh, it’s chaos 🌀. They’re obsessed with each other. I’m talking “I’ll stab someone for you” levels of devotion 🩸. Actually, Ana literally says she wants to rip someone’s heart out and force-feed it to them 🤯. Girl was not playing around.
The book also has some wild plot twists 🧠. One of them made my jaw drop so hard it’s still on the floor 🫢. Let’s just say… daddy issues to the MAX 😬. And no, not in a fun way. In a “wait… WHAT?!” kind of way 🤯. You’ll know it when you get there.
Now, let’s talk about the Moretti family 🖤. I want them to adopt me 😭. These mafia brothers are dangerous but also give major “we protect our own” vibes 💪. They’re scary, sure, but also kind of hilarious and weirdly wholesome 🫶? There’s a dog named Sirius who deserves more page time 🐶 (yes, justice for the dog). Dante is collecting traumatized people like Pokémon 😅, and I love that for him. Honestly, I would read a book about them just going grocery shopping 🛒.
One thing I will say—there were a few time jumps that felt a bit fast ⏩, like blink and suddenly it's three months later ⌛. I wanted a little more buildup in some parts, especially to watch Ana and Cassio fall for each other more gradually 💞. But honestly? I was too busy screaming at the drama 😱 and wiping my tears 😭 to care too much.
Also, if you’ve read Hidden Empire (book one), this sequel is a BIG step up 🚀. Like… it went from “hmm okay” to “OH MY GOD WHAT IS HAPPENING” real quick 🤯. K.L. Mann’s writing just keeps getting better and more addictive with every book ✍️📖.
And guess what? The next book is about APOLLO 🧨. Yes. THAT Apollo. If you know, you know 😵💫. I’m not okay and I need it right now 🆘.
Yes, there were a few time skips that made me wish we could've stayed in some scenes longer ⏳, but honestly? I didn’t even care 🤷♀️. I was way too busy crying 😢, laughing 😂, and clapping 👏 every time Ana said something completely unhinged and amazing.
Ana: "I wanted to crack her chest open and force-feed her heart to her.”
Me: 👏 "Queen energy."
Tropes: Age gap 👩❤️👨
arranged marriage 💍
found family 🫂
mafia romance 🔫❤️
best friend’s brother 😳
Okay, first of all… WOW 😭🔥. Where do I even start with Tragic Empire? This book grabbed me by the face, screamed at me, hugged me, then threw me off a cliff—in the best way possible 🫠. If you like dramatic mafia love stories full of emotional damage 💔, sass 😈, chaos 🌀, and a touch of pure unhinged behavior 🤪, this book is for YOU.
Before you even think about starting this book, let me say one thing: get your tissues ready 🧻. I'm serious. I was crying my eyes out 😭 before I even made it past chapter two. K.L. Mann did not come to play—she came to break hearts 💔 and build emotional trauma 🧨.
Let’s just start with this: the dedication of the book literally says “for all the characters who had to die to make this story possible. I’m so sorry.” And I was like “oh no” 😬... and then OH NO 😱 because this book HURTS 🫠.
So let’s talk about Ana. My girl Ana is going through it 🫣. Like… she’s been through absolute hell loss, betrayal, trauma. you name it 💥. But does she sit in a corner and cry? Well, okay, yes she does cry a bit 😢. But then she stands up, wipes those tears, and turns into a whole menace 🗡️. And we LOVE her for it 💅. She’s angry, she's grieving, and she's out for blood 🩸. She’s putting trackers on people, threatening waitresses, and stabbing folks in the neck like it’s just another Tuesday 🔪. Honestly? Iconic behavior 👑.
And then there’s Cassio. Oh Cassio 😮💨. Soft on the inside, deadly on the outside. This man is basically a walking “do not mess with my woman or I’ll ruin your whole bloodline” type of guy 💣, and I ate that UP 🍽️. He’s protective, loyal, and the way he falls for Ana? Chef’s kiss 👨🍳💋. He doesn’t just love her—he worships her 🙇. He is so sweet and dangerous and emotionally wrecked, and we absolutely love a broken man in a suit with a heart of gold 🖤.
Together? Cassio and Ana are chaos and comfort rolled into one 💥🫶. Their relationship is born from pain, but it grows into something so deep and intense that I was kicking my feet and screaming 🥹🫠. They're not soft—they're possessive 💀. They're “I’ll kill for you” and “I’ll die with you” levels of obsessed 🔥. Honestly? Soulmates, but make it mafia 💍🔫.
Their romance? Off the charts 📈. They don’t fall in love slowly they crash into it like a train going 200 mph 🚂💥. And once they're in it? Oh, it’s chaos 🌀. They’re obsessed with each other. I’m talking “I’ll stab someone for you” levels of devotion 🩸. Actually, Ana literally says she wants to rip someone’s heart out and force-feed it to them 🤯. Girl was not playing around.
The book also has some wild plot twists 🧠. One of them made my jaw drop so hard it’s still on the floor 🫢. Let’s just say… daddy issues to the MAX 😬. And no, not in a fun way. In a “wait… WHAT?!” kind of way 🤯. You’ll know it when you get there.
Now, let’s talk about the Moretti family 🖤. I want them to adopt me 😭. These mafia brothers are dangerous but also give major “we protect our own” vibes 💪. They’re scary, sure, but also kind of hilarious and weirdly wholesome 🫶? There’s a dog named Sirius who deserves more page time 🐶 (yes, justice for the dog). Dante is collecting traumatized people like Pokémon 😅, and I love that for him. Honestly, I would read a book about them just going grocery shopping 🛒.
One thing I will say—there were a few time jumps that felt a bit fast ⏩, like blink and suddenly it's three months later ⌛. I wanted a little more buildup in some parts, especially to watch Ana and Cassio fall for each other more gradually 💞. But honestly? I was too busy screaming at the drama 😱 and wiping my tears 😭 to care too much.
Also, if you’ve read Hidden Empire (book one), this sequel is a BIG step up 🚀. Like… it went from “hmm okay” to “OH MY GOD WHAT IS HAPPENING” real quick 🤯. K.L. Mann’s writing just keeps getting better and more addictive with every book ✍️📖.
And guess what? The next book is about APOLLO 🧨. Yes. THAT Apollo. If you know, you know 😵💫. I’m not okay and I need it right now 🆘.
Yes, there were a few time skips that made me wish we could've stayed in some scenes longer ⏳, but honestly? I didn’t even care 🤷♀️. I was way too busy crying 😢, laughing 😂, and clapping 👏 every time Ana said something completely unhinged and amazing.
Ana: "I wanted to crack her chest open and force-feed her heart to her.”
Me: 👏 "Queen energy."
Tropes: Age gap 👩❤️👨
arranged marriage 💍
found family 🫂
mafia romance 🔫❤️
best friend’s brother 😳
June 17, 2025
2.5/5
it didn’t give what it was supposed to give
it didn’t give what it was supposed to give
December 23, 2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance (Mafia)
⭐️ 4/5
🌶 2.5/5
🧠 3/10
Cliffhanger: 2/10 (Setup for book 3)
Noteworthy: Book 2 of an incomplete series of interconnected standalones. No overarching plot. Dual first-person POV (1 chapter additional POV). Content warnings provided. Take specific care if you have triggers with infant or pregnancy mortality. Available on KU.
Whooh this one is a gut punch at times. Reading grief is the hardest for me and this book has no shortage of it. I love how nothing is rushed. Healing arcs are handled with care and feel pretty realistic for a very fictional world. Both main characters were so perfect for each other. I can't stress enough how their relationship developed at the perfect pace for all they had been through.The mystery and thriller parts of this story felt a little old school and were fun in that way. I adore hanging with this big, crazy, loving criminal family!
This one feels a little more classically mafia but still maintains lighter tones. I will definitely be continuing this series and can't wait for book 3. Super excited to read the heir's story. I just know he's gonna be a stubborn one.
⭐️ 4/5
🌶 2.5/5
🧠 3/10
Cliffhanger: 2/10 (Setup for book 3)
Noteworthy: Book 2 of an incomplete series of interconnected standalones. No overarching plot. Dual first-person POV (1 chapter additional POV). Content warnings provided. Take specific care if you have triggers with infant or pregnancy mortality. Available on KU.
Whooh this one is a gut punch at times. Reading grief is the hardest for me and this book has no shortage of it. I love how nothing is rushed. Healing arcs are handled with care and feel pretty realistic for a very fictional world. Both main characters were so perfect for each other. I can't stress enough how their relationship developed at the perfect pace for all they had been through.The mystery and thriller parts of this story felt a little old school and were fun in that way. I adore hanging with this big, crazy, loving criminal family!
This one feels a little more classically mafia but still maintains lighter tones. I will definitely be continuing this series and can't wait for book 3. Super excited to read the heir's story. I just know he's gonna be a stubborn one.
December 8, 2025
It delivered just as well as the previous one, and the mix of grief and Ana’s unhinged behavior was a major bonus.
May 5, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - graphic violence, trauma, murder, gun violence, knife violence, torture, grief (throughout), familial death (murder on page) incl death of a (step) parent, death of a parent (suicide as a result of loss / grief, body and aftermath seen on page incl slit wrists), death of a parent (suicide, as a result of a terminal illness (brain tumour) with no treatment, past, loosely recounted, slit wrists), death of a spouse (past, in child birth, loosely recounted), death of a child (past, in child birth, loosely recounted), on page funeral, kidnapping, fertility struggles (mentioned, sc), stalking (not between MCs), blood, gore, panic attacks (on page), nausea, car crash (loosely recounted), child abuse (past, scs, incl the threat of poisoning), difficulty taking medications (due to past trauma, sc, mentioned), parental neglect (scs, past, mentioned), drugging of the MCs (by scs), disassociation, depression, anxiety, abuse (past, sc, mentioned), needles (to administer medication), use of mood stabilisers, smoking (cigarettes), death / suicide ideation, very brief and minimal cutting for blood used in a ceremony, nightmares, multiple heart surgeries and comatose state (sc, mentioned), hospitals, alcohol consumption, vomit, orphans, adoption, parental abandonment (past, mentioned), overdose (sc, mentioned, suicide implied), car crash (off page, resulting in the death of a sc, mentioned), drugging of an animal, breaking and entering, hidden cameras, hidden trackers, abuse (scs)
CW - somnophilia, step sibling relationship (past, FMC and sc), light spanking, light degradation, public play
Tropes - possessive, arranged marriage for convenience, “my wife", she’s obsessed, he’s obsessed, he falls first, billionaire MMC, mafia, dark, found family, best friend's brother, hurt x comfort, age gap
Representation - queer scs: gay / bi rep, half Chinese FMC
What a book 🤩 I enjoyed being back in the Moretti Empire world.
The title and the dedication of this book are… apt to say the least. There is a lot of tragedy, grief and, heartbreak we witness in these pages. Ana (FMC) and Cassio (FMC) have to face loss and grief both in the past and in the present. The two as a couple are unexpected, forged in desperation and the need for an ally but it seems like they just needed a push to get to the brilliance lying underneath.
The cast in these stories are huge. There are a lot of Moretti characters but I do love how we get snippets of them all, their personalities and demeanours.
Ana and Cassio were good together. Once the reality of their situation sank in, they were onboard and their feelings for each other seemed to hit them out of nowhere. They’re obsessed and possessive and I loved how we didn’t just get those traits from Cassio, but Ana as well.
I’m eager to read books 3 and 4 based on some of the happenings in this book 👀
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - graphic violence, trauma, murder, gun violence, knife violence, torture, grief (throughout), familial death (murder on page) incl death of a (step) parent, death of a parent (suicide as a result of loss / grief, body and aftermath seen on page incl slit wrists), death of a parent (suicide, as a result of a terminal illness (brain tumour) with no treatment, past, loosely recounted, slit wrists), death of a spouse (past, in child birth, loosely recounted), death of a child (past, in child birth, loosely recounted), on page funeral, kidnapping, fertility struggles (mentioned, sc), stalking (not between MCs), blood, gore, panic attacks (on page), nausea, car crash (loosely recounted), child abuse (past, scs, incl the threat of poisoning), difficulty taking medications (due to past trauma, sc, mentioned), parental neglect (scs, past, mentioned), drugging of the MCs (by scs), disassociation, depression, anxiety, abuse (past, sc, mentioned), needles (to administer medication), use of mood stabilisers, smoking (cigarettes), death / suicide ideation, very brief and minimal cutting for blood used in a ceremony, nightmares, multiple heart surgeries and comatose state (sc, mentioned), hospitals, alcohol consumption, vomit, orphans, adoption, parental abandonment (past, mentioned), overdose (sc, mentioned, suicide implied), car crash (off page, resulting in the death of a sc, mentioned), drugging of an animal, breaking and entering, hidden cameras, hidden trackers, abuse (scs)
CW - somnophilia, step sibling relationship (past, FMC and sc), light spanking, light degradation, public play
Tropes - possessive, arranged marriage for convenience, “my wife", she’s obsessed, he’s obsessed, he falls first, billionaire MMC, mafia, dark, found family, best friend's brother, hurt x comfort, age gap
Representation - queer scs: gay / bi rep, half Chinese FMC
What a book 🤩 I enjoyed being back in the Moretti Empire world.
The title and the dedication of this book are… apt to say the least. There is a lot of tragedy, grief and, heartbreak we witness in these pages. Ana (FMC) and Cassio (FMC) have to face loss and grief both in the past and in the present. The two as a couple are unexpected, forged in desperation and the need for an ally but it seems like they just needed a push to get to the brilliance lying underneath.
The cast in these stories are huge. There are a lot of Moretti characters but I do love how we get snippets of them all, their personalities and demeanours.
Ana and Cassio were good together. Once the reality of their situation sank in, they were onboard and their feelings for each other seemed to hit them out of nowhere. They’re obsessed and possessive and I loved how we didn’t just get those traits from Cassio, but Ana as well.
I’m eager to read books 3 and 4 based on some of the happenings in this book 👀
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List
January 10, 2026
rtc but giving us all those crumbs about Nico and Colton when their book doesn’t even have a release date yet is diabolical.
December 13, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
This was amazing and traumatising😃
Classic combo, thank you very much.
By the way, the plot twist got me completely, never thought of that person even though there were signs.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Coming out May 9
GUYS THIS IS NOT A DRILL
WE WILL HAVE MORE BOOKS AHHH
This was amazing and traumatising😃
Classic combo, thank you very much.
By the way, the plot twist got me completely, never thought of that person even though there were signs.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Coming out May 9
GUYS THIS IS NOT A DRILL
WE WILL HAVE MORE BOOKS AHHH
Want to read
November 11, 2024let it be apollo or cassio’s book PLS 🙏🏻
November 2, 2025
I need a book for Colton and Nico like now!!!
May 16, 2025
This is just so wattpad what the hell was that dnf like a teenager wrote this
May 9, 2025
5 ⭐️
Whew, this one hit. A gritty, emotional mafia romance where both characters are deep in their own grief, but still manage to be wildly devoted to each other. Ana? Unhinged perfection. Honestly, her descent was my favourite part … she snapped and I clapped. Loved their chemistry, loved the chaos. I’m absolutely diving into the next book.
Whew, this one hit. A gritty, emotional mafia romance where both characters are deep in their own grief, but still manage to be wildly devoted to each other. Ana? Unhinged perfection. Honestly, her descent was my favourite part … she snapped and I clapped. Loved their chemistry, loved the chaos. I’m absolutely diving into the next book.
May 18, 2025
3 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale
3.5 on the spice scale
Read
January 21, 2026La vergüenza que me da lo que me ha gustado el libro. Tampoco tanto. 2 estrellas por ser cringe a morir. Ciaooooo
June 12, 2025
Wished this was more of a slow burn but i Like my men on their knees. On another note the people (me) need nico and coltons Book like yesterday
February 17, 2026
DNF 50%
The opening section of Tragic Empire is genuinely phenomenal. The portrayal of trauma, shock, grief, and dissociation after violence is intense and emotionally convincing- Ana’s psychological collapse, her inability to function, and the need for medication felt raw and unsettling in a way I did not expect. For a brief moment, this book seemed ready to seriously explore grief and recovery.
And then the rest of the story happened...
All of that promising character work is dropped almost immediately in favor of a shallow obsession/romance fantasy. The narrative abandons any meaningful exploration of grief or healing and replaces it with two characters who are inexplicably obsessed with each other.
Cassio is written as the ultimate fantasy caretaker husband-he anticipates every need, never falters, never challenges her in a meaningful way, with no motivations/desires past taking care of her. While Ana's character becomes painfully flat.
The emotional arcs are especially frustrating. Both leads conveniently 'move on' from their previous loves with minimal emotional processing, despite the book itself setting up immense grief and trauma.
Ana seen her first boyfriend, the one she lost her virginity to, get shot in the head a month ago and she's already becoming infatuated with another man and completely forgot about her previous boyfriend... as she lives in the apartment that she shared with said previous boyfriend, does not explore any memories they had together, does not process her grief.... I was a little hopeful when she freaked out while cooking that it would relate back to her trauma but NOPE
The entire story reads like a self-insert wish-fulfillment fantasy: bad, powerful mafia man is obsessively devoted to me, the traumatized girl. The mafia setting, forced marriage trope, and found family aesthetic are used as aesthetic wallpaper rather than tools for meaningful storytelling and complex characters
Ana is folded into the Moretti family through a political marriage and blood ritual, but the narrative never interrogates the disturbing implications of this power dynamic. Instead, it frames everything as comforting and romantic
The writing itself is another major issue.
I had to DNF it at 50% The prose often feels juvenile (after the opening section, which again- was near flawless) reminding me of Wattpad-level melodrama, undermining what could have been a grounded exploration of trauma and mafia politics (and I'm even setting aside why she, as the adopted daughter of the previous mafia boss, has any power and why no power play was made/shown)
In short: a powerful opening that promised something meaningful, followed by pages of shallow fantasy and weak characters. It was not for me, but I'm glad other people liked it
The opening section of Tragic Empire is genuinely phenomenal. The portrayal of trauma, shock, grief, and dissociation after violence is intense and emotionally convincing- Ana’s psychological collapse, her inability to function, and the need for medication felt raw and unsettling in a way I did not expect. For a brief moment, this book seemed ready to seriously explore grief and recovery.
And then the rest of the story happened...
All of that promising character work is dropped almost immediately in favor of a shallow obsession/romance fantasy. The narrative abandons any meaningful exploration of grief or healing and replaces it with two characters who are inexplicably obsessed with each other.
Cassio is written as the ultimate fantasy caretaker husband-he anticipates every need, never falters, never challenges her in a meaningful way, with no motivations/desires past taking care of her. While Ana's character becomes painfully flat.
The emotional arcs are especially frustrating. Both leads conveniently 'move on' from their previous loves with minimal emotional processing, despite the book itself setting up immense grief and trauma.
Ana seen her first boyfriend, the one she lost her virginity to, get shot in the head a month ago and she's already becoming infatuated with another man and completely forgot about her previous boyfriend... as she lives in the apartment that she shared with said previous boyfriend, does not explore any memories they had together, does not process her grief.... I was a little hopeful when she freaked out while cooking that it would relate back to her trauma but NOPE
The entire story reads like a self-insert wish-fulfillment fantasy: bad, powerful mafia man is obsessively devoted to me, the traumatized girl. The mafia setting, forced marriage trope, and found family aesthetic are used as aesthetic wallpaper rather than tools for meaningful storytelling and complex characters
Ana is folded into the Moretti family through a political marriage and blood ritual, but the narrative never interrogates the disturbing implications of this power dynamic. Instead, it frames everything as comforting and romantic
The writing itself is another major issue.
I had to DNF it at 50% The prose often feels juvenile (after the opening section, which again- was near flawless) reminding me of Wattpad-level melodrama, undermining what could have been a grounded exploration of trauma and mafia politics (and I'm even setting aside why she, as the adopted daughter of the previous mafia boss, has any power and why no power play was made/shown)
In short: a powerful opening that promised something meaningful, followed by pages of shallow fantasy and weak characters. It was not for me, but I'm glad other people liked it
January 20, 2026
Tarde mucho tiempo en terminar este libro y no fue por que no me haya gustado, la verdad es que fue el que más me atrapó de esta serie hasta ahora y espero poder seguir adelante con los demás libros de estos hermanos Moretti, aunque por ahora la historia que más me intriga es la de León y su interes amoroso, el cual por ahora la autora aún no confirma y espero de todo corazón que sea Cleo por que veo venir una buena trama 🥹.
Want to read
February 9, 2025Oh wow. I did expect it will be Cassio ma boy's book but not with Ana 👀. This will be hella interesting since she has protective brothers of her own and Cassio ma heart is broken. That man deserves the world she better be good. 🙏😞.
I'm so excited for this and as crazy as this sounds lol, when I finished the first book, I thought there'll be a book about Evan and Matteo just because of one scene by the near end of the book when Evan was all like good boy to Matteo and I NEEDED their relationship. Though Matteo wasn't even labeled as gay or not in the book.
But still, I'm more excited for this book. Cassio don't disappoint me 👉🏼👈🏼
I'm so excited for this and as crazy as this sounds lol, when I finished the first book, I thought there'll be a book about Evan and Matteo just because of one scene by the near end of the book when Evan was all like good boy to Matteo and I NEEDED their relationship. Though Matteo wasn't even labeled as gay or not in the book.
But still, I'm more excited for this book. Cassio don't disappoint me 👉🏼👈🏼
April 26, 2025
Tragic Empire, the dazzling sequel in The Moretti Empire Series, is here, and trust me, you’ll want to gobble up the first book for the full scoop on our beloved characters’ wild adventures!
Just 6% in, and KL had my heartstrings in a full-on tug-of-war, leaving me a blubbering mess yet hungry for more!
We’re riding shotgun with Ana as she battles through a traumatic storm, finding shelter and support with the ever-intriguing Moretti clan.
With danger lurking like a shadowy villain, an alliance is needed for the Kings—the British mafia—to keep the power game strong.
Enter Cassio, the Moretti empire's suave Consigliere, ready to swoop in and be Ana’s knight in shining armor. Their bond, Their emotions and the themes explored here are as deep as the ocean.
Watching Cassio and Ana’s love story blossom is like witnessing fireworks: mesmerizing and awe-inspiring. Ana’s fierce protectiveness and their intense love and obsession are beautifully portrayed.
The found family aspect shines brightly, and sneaky peeks at future stories left me buzzing with excitement!
Things to know
Explicit Language and Graphic Violence, Trauma, Weapons and Murder, Torture, Grief Loss of a spouse, Loss of a child,
Suicide (mentioned), Kidnapping, Brain Tumor (mentioned), Fertility Struggle (mentioned), Stalking, Consensual Somnophilia, Past Step Sibling Relationship (not main couple), Hurt/comfort, Found family, Mafia, Best friend’s brother, Age gap, Mystery threat, Arrange marriage, He cooks for her, Lingering touches, Name tattoos, She stabs people, He watches her sleep, “Wife”, Tracking device(s)
Just 6% in, and KL had my heartstrings in a full-on tug-of-war, leaving me a blubbering mess yet hungry for more!
We’re riding shotgun with Ana as she battles through a traumatic storm, finding shelter and support with the ever-intriguing Moretti clan.
With danger lurking like a shadowy villain, an alliance is needed for the Kings—the British mafia—to keep the power game strong.
Enter Cassio, the Moretti empire's suave Consigliere, ready to swoop in and be Ana’s knight in shining armor. Their bond, Their emotions and the themes explored here are as deep as the ocean.
Watching Cassio and Ana’s love story blossom is like witnessing fireworks: mesmerizing and awe-inspiring. Ana’s fierce protectiveness and their intense love and obsession are beautifully portrayed.
The found family aspect shines brightly, and sneaky peeks at future stories left me buzzing with excitement!
Things to know
Explicit Language and Graphic Violence, Trauma, Weapons and Murder, Torture, Grief Loss of a spouse, Loss of a child,
Suicide (mentioned), Kidnapping, Brain Tumor (mentioned), Fertility Struggle (mentioned), Stalking, Consensual Somnophilia, Past Step Sibling Relationship (not main couple), Hurt/comfort, Found family, Mafia, Best friend’s brother, Age gap, Mystery threat, Arrange marriage, He cooks for her, Lingering touches, Name tattoos, She stabs people, He watches her sleep, “Wife”, Tracking device(s)
November 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I ADORE THIS FAMILY SO MUCH 😫😫😫 ana and cassio’s story was everything to me, i loved them so fucking much!!!!
i loved how much of a badass ana is, not to mention how possessive she is 🤭🤭🤭 the little “ana-plot-twists” had me giggling and kicking my feet— she’s fr my girl crush!!!
the fact that this was also cassio’s book???? aka my FAVOURITE moretti brother???? HELL YES!!!! he was truly everything in this book— he was everything ana needed and helped her in so many ways 😫😫😫
i loved the whole concept of a “moretti blood marriage”, and the words cassio said when he offered this— MY MAN MY MAN MY MAN 🤤🤤🤤 jade being so damn excited that she has a sister too was so 🥹🥹🥹
THE COUPLES THAT WERE CONFIRMED IN THIS BOOK HOLY SHITTT!!!! i am so excited for each one (i want their books like RIGHT NOW)!!!!
Thank you to the author, K.L. Mann, for this ARC — which was given in exchange for an honest review!
i loved how much of a badass ana is, not to mention how possessive she is 🤭🤭🤭 the little “ana-plot-twists” had me giggling and kicking my feet— she’s fr my girl crush!!!
the fact that this was also cassio’s book???? aka my FAVOURITE moretti brother???? HELL YES!!!! he was truly everything in this book— he was everything ana needed and helped her in so many ways 😫😫😫
i loved the whole concept of a “moretti blood marriage”, and the words cassio said when he offered this— MY MAN MY MAN MY MAN 🤤🤤🤤 jade being so damn excited that she has a sister too was so 🥹🥹🥹
THE COUPLES THAT WERE CONFIRMED IN THIS BOOK HOLY SHITTT!!!! i am so excited for each one (i want their books like RIGHT NOW)!!!!
Thank you to the author, K.L. Mann, for this ARC — which was given in exchange for an honest review!
October 24, 2025
Oh, I thought it would be a good mafia story, but it turned out to be so unrealistic. Don’t read the full review if you want to avoid minimal spoilers.
He mourned his dead wife for a year, and then—boom!—he falls in love with her in a week after their arranged wedding. She was in love with her boyfriend, only to realize she never loved him—just when it was inconvenient to love and mourn him anymore. The dog as an accessory? She was itty-bitty weak princess, just to suddenly turn savage in—like what? 10 seconds? And that restaurant scene? You’ve lost me for good there.
All in all, the best part of this book is the beginning. It was promising. But the rest? I just don’t feel it.
He mourned his dead wife for a year, and then—boom!—he falls in love with her in a week after their arranged wedding. She was in love with her boyfriend, only to realize she never loved him—just when it was inconvenient to love and mourn him anymore. The dog as an accessory? She was itty-bitty weak princess, just to suddenly turn savage in—like what? 10 seconds? And that restaurant scene? You’ve lost me for good there.
All in all, the best part of this book is the beginning. It was promising. But the rest? I just don’t feel it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2025
Bingeable fun
Definitely not what I was expecting, but it was fun, lol. After reading the blurb, I thought I was in for an emotional arranged marriage romance with mafia vibes, featuring a found family between two people who find love after loss. Which… I guess is technically true. This starts off heavy, and I was engaged enough with the writing that I was immediately pulled in. I loved the unique setup, one I haven’t seen before. Our heroine just lost her boyfriend in a violent manner, and our hero steps in and agrees to marry her for protection - despite the fact that he’s a widower many assumed would not remarry. There was so much potential for a slow-burning marriage of convenience romance, and I could see it being really powerful and fresh. Instead, the author utilizes a time jump that makes the hero completely smitten, without really showing us why. It ended up being one of the softest mafia romances I’ve read, with a plot that gets increasingly bonkers. I liked it, I binged it, I’ll be back for more from the series. But it didn’t quite live up to expectations.
The story follows Ana (19), a woman who just witnessed the violent death of her boyfriend. Distraught, Ana seeks out the help of her friend, a woman from another mafia family. Since family ties are stronger than friendships in the mafia world, Ana agrees to marry her friend’s brother in exchange for the family’s protection. The only thing Ana knows about Cassio (29) is that his wife died in childbirth a few years ago, and he hasn’t been happy since. As the two near strangers begin their marriage, Cassio quickly makes it clear to Ana that the relationship won’t go how she anticipated. Despite the circumstances of their marriage, Cassio considers Ana to be his real wife - and he plans to treat her well. As the two grow closer, they form a connection neither anticipated.
There is SO MUCH potential in the storyline, I was incredibly intrigued. I loved the soft vibes and the way Cassio is gone for his girl. That part kept me turning the pages. I also liked the large cast of characters, actually. It was a little overwhelming at first to keep track of everyone, but the characters should make the series compelling. I do think there could’ve been much stronger relationship development - Mann shies away from some of the more impactful moments. For example, Cassio’s trauma over his late wife is conveniently set aside. The spice was spicin’ later on though, and I loved that he wasn’t a hoe. I didn’t love the age gap, but it was easy enough to forget about. Some of the drama and suspense was a little ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless. It was wildly uneven, but I’m excited to watch the author’s writing continue to grow - and much of it was fun.
Definitely not what I was expecting, but it was fun, lol. After reading the blurb, I thought I was in for an emotional arranged marriage romance with mafia vibes, featuring a found family between two people who find love after loss. Which… I guess is technically true. This starts off heavy, and I was engaged enough with the writing that I was immediately pulled in. I loved the unique setup, one I haven’t seen before. Our heroine just lost her boyfriend in a violent manner, and our hero steps in and agrees to marry her for protection - despite the fact that he’s a widower many assumed would not remarry. There was so much potential for a slow-burning marriage of convenience romance, and I could see it being really powerful and fresh. Instead, the author utilizes a time jump that makes the hero completely smitten, without really showing us why. It ended up being one of the softest mafia romances I’ve read, with a plot that gets increasingly bonkers. I liked it, I binged it, I’ll be back for more from the series. But it didn’t quite live up to expectations.
The story follows Ana (19), a woman who just witnessed the violent death of her boyfriend. Distraught, Ana seeks out the help of her friend, a woman from another mafia family. Since family ties are stronger than friendships in the mafia world, Ana agrees to marry her friend’s brother in exchange for the family’s protection. The only thing Ana knows about Cassio (29) is that his wife died in childbirth a few years ago, and he hasn’t been happy since. As the two near strangers begin their marriage, Cassio quickly makes it clear to Ana that the relationship won’t go how she anticipated. Despite the circumstances of their marriage, Cassio considers Ana to be his real wife - and he plans to treat her well. As the two grow closer, they form a connection neither anticipated.
There is SO MUCH potential in the storyline, I was incredibly intrigued. I loved the soft vibes and the way Cassio is gone for his girl. That part kept me turning the pages. I also liked the large cast of characters, actually. It was a little overwhelming at first to keep track of everyone, but the characters should make the series compelling. I do think there could’ve been much stronger relationship development - Mann shies away from some of the more impactful moments. For example, Cassio’s trauma over his late wife is conveniently set aside. The spice was spicin’ later on though, and I loved that he wasn’t a hoe. I didn’t love the age gap, but it was easy enough to forget about. Some of the drama and suspense was a little ridiculous, but entertaining nonetheless. It was wildly uneven, but I’m excited to watch the author’s writing continue to grow - and much of it was fun.
April 28, 2025
Book Review: Tragic Empire by K.L. Mann
Tragic Empire by K.L. Mann is a rollercoaster of emotions that takes readers deep into the heart of the Moretti Empire. While many anticipated Apollo’s story, Mann surprises us by delving into Cassio’s journey, intertwining it with Ana’s in a narrative filled with unexpected twists. The story begins with Ana Knight, a British mafia heiress whose world shatters when her family is wiped out. Seeking refuge, she turns to the Morettis, leading to an arranged marriage with Cassio, a man haunted by his past losses. Their relationship, built on mutual grief and healing, unfolds beautifully, showcasing Mann’s talent for crafting deep emotional connections. The Moretti family’s dynamics add layers of warmth and humor, making the narrative even more engaging. For those seeking a dark mafia romance that balances intensity with heartfelt moments, Tragic Empire delivers on all fronts. 
Trigger Warnings:
• Graphic violence and murder
• Trauma and emotional distress
• Explicit language
• Weapons and warfare
Book Tropes:
• Arranged marriage
• Age gap romance 
• Found family 
• Best friend’s brother 
• Hurt/comfort
• Mafia romance
• Possessive FMC & MMC
• Mystery threat
Tragic Empire by K.L. Mann is a rollercoaster of emotions that takes readers deep into the heart of the Moretti Empire. While many anticipated Apollo’s story, Mann surprises us by delving into Cassio’s journey, intertwining it with Ana’s in a narrative filled with unexpected twists. The story begins with Ana Knight, a British mafia heiress whose world shatters when her family is wiped out. Seeking refuge, she turns to the Morettis, leading to an arranged marriage with Cassio, a man haunted by his past losses. Their relationship, built on mutual grief and healing, unfolds beautifully, showcasing Mann’s talent for crafting deep emotional connections. The Moretti family’s dynamics add layers of warmth and humor, making the narrative even more engaging. For those seeking a dark mafia romance that balances intensity with heartfelt moments, Tragic Empire delivers on all fronts. 
Trigger Warnings:
• Graphic violence and murder
• Trauma and emotional distress
• Explicit language
• Weapons and warfare
Book Tropes:
• Arranged marriage
• Age gap romance 
• Found family 
• Best friend’s brother 
• Hurt/comfort
• Mafia romance
• Possessive FMC & MMC
• Mystery threat
May 7, 2025
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 2🌶️
This book BROKE me... and then slowly put me back together. 💔❤️
I was not prepared for how emotional those first few chapters would be. I cried so much, and honestly, I didn’t think I could get this attached to a fictional character so quickly—but Ana? She ruined me in the best way. Her strength, despite everything she’s been through, was amazing. She was vulnerable, raw, and yet had this quiet fire in her that made me love her even more with every page.
And then there’s Cassio. That man didn’t just help Ana heal—he healed me.😅 Grumpy, protective, soft-hearted Cassio who showed up and showed out. If men like him existed in real life, the world would be a better place, okay?! Ana and Cassio were the perfect balance. The way they came together, leaned on each other, and found love amidst the pain? Ugh, soulmates. 💫
What I especially love about this series is the family dynamic. It’s not easy juggling a big cast and still giving each character their moment, but Kassie did it so effortlessly. Every scene felt important. Every side character felt real. And don’t even get me started on the spice 🔥, the plot 📚, and the writing ✍️—pure perfection.
And THAT LAST EPILOGUE?! 😵💫 I’m counting down the days for Apollo and Matteo’s books. I don't know how I'm supposed to survive the wait without going completely feral, lol.
Tropes:
Mafia romance
Arranged Marriage/Forced Marriage
Spice: 2🌶️
This book BROKE me... and then slowly put me back together. 💔❤️
I was not prepared for how emotional those first few chapters would be. I cried so much, and honestly, I didn’t think I could get this attached to a fictional character so quickly—but Ana? She ruined me in the best way. Her strength, despite everything she’s been through, was amazing. She was vulnerable, raw, and yet had this quiet fire in her that made me love her even more with every page.
And then there’s Cassio. That man didn’t just help Ana heal—he healed me.😅 Grumpy, protective, soft-hearted Cassio who showed up and showed out. If men like him existed in real life, the world would be a better place, okay?! Ana and Cassio were the perfect balance. The way they came together, leaned on each other, and found love amidst the pain? Ugh, soulmates. 💫
What I especially love about this series is the family dynamic. It’s not easy juggling a big cast and still giving each character their moment, but Kassie did it so effortlessly. Every scene felt important. Every side character felt real. And don’t even get me started on the spice 🔥, the plot 📚, and the writing ✍️—pure perfection.
And THAT LAST EPILOGUE?! 😵💫 I’m counting down the days for Apollo and Matteo’s books. I don't know how I'm supposed to survive the wait without going completely feral, lol.
Tropes:
Mafia romance
Arranged Marriage/Forced Marriage
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