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Marchesi Empire #3
Tormented Diamonds
From USA Today Bestselling author Cora Kenborn comes the final book in the Marchesi Empire, a forbidden love, enemies-to-lovers, dark mafia romance trilogy.
Never fuel a spark...
When the last match dropped, I thought it was over.
But obsession is a dirty player in a corrupt game…
And a made man never takes without consequence.
The moment I crossed that line, free will became a bargaining chip.
One that chained Becca to everything I fought to keep her from.
Bending my promise into a vow was supposed to protect her.
However, vengeance is a wicked temptress.
She seduces lies from the honest…
Twists saints into sinners…
And turns an uptight psychiatrist into a killer.
The past has risen, and war is coming for us…
A hailstorm of bullets and blades dripping with debt.
I’ll burn this city to the ground and paint the streets red…
But it’s my queen they should all fear.
A tortured heart may be dangerous…
But a tormented one is deadly.
*Tormented Diamonds is the 3rd and final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy. It is not a standalone.
**The Marchesi Empire contains dark subject matter. Please refer to the note at the front of each book for details.
Never fuel a spark...
When the last match dropped, I thought it was over.
But obsession is a dirty player in a corrupt game…
And a made man never takes without consequence.
The moment I crossed that line, free will became a bargaining chip.
One that chained Becca to everything I fought to keep her from.
Bending my promise into a vow was supposed to protect her.
However, vengeance is a wicked temptress.
She seduces lies from the honest…
Twists saints into sinners…
And turns an uptight psychiatrist into a killer.
The past has risen, and war is coming for us…
A hailstorm of bullets and blades dripping with debt.
I’ll burn this city to the ground and paint the streets red…
But it’s my queen they should all fear.
A tortured heart may be dangerous…
But a tormented one is deadly.
*Tormented Diamonds is the 3rd and final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy. It is not a standalone.
**The Marchesi Empire contains dark subject matter. Please refer to the note at the front of each book for details.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2025
15 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Cora Kenborn
57 books2,078 followersCora Kenborn is a USA Today Bestselling and Top 50 Amazon Bestselling author whose readers have affectionately dubbed her the “queen of plot twists that’ll ruin your day in the best way.”
Best known for her dark mafia romances, Cora has an insatiable bad boy obsession, which she believes started in the third grade when she chose Bruce over Todd in the Sweet Valley High books. To this day, give her an unhinged antihero who falls hard for a feisty heroine, and you’ve won her heart.
As a native North Carolinian, Cora claims the domestic Southern Belle gene skipped right over her. Her villain origin story was the day she tried making her mother’s famous biscuits and gravy, only to turn them into paste-covered dough bricks. That’s when she decided fiction was better than reality, and microwaved mac and cheese counted as fine dining.
Stay up to date with Cora:
Newsletter: corakenborn.myflodesk.com/newsletter
Website: www.corakenborn.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2CPrPrx
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CoraFB
Facebook Reader Group: http://bit.ly/CoraTAA
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CKTikTok
Instagram: http://bit.ly/CoraInsta
BookBub: http://bit.ly/CoraBookBub
Best known for her dark mafia romances, Cora has an insatiable bad boy obsession, which she believes started in the third grade when she chose Bruce over Todd in the Sweet Valley High books. To this day, give her an unhinged antihero who falls hard for a feisty heroine, and you’ve won her heart.
As a native North Carolinian, Cora claims the domestic Southern Belle gene skipped right over her. Her villain origin story was the day she tried making her mother’s famous biscuits and gravy, only to turn them into paste-covered dough bricks. That’s when she decided fiction was better than reality, and microwaved mac and cheese counted as fine dining.
Stay up to date with Cora:
Newsletter: corakenborn.myflodesk.com/newsletter
Website: www.corakenborn.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2CPrPrx
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CoraFB
Facebook Reader Group: http://bit.ly/CoraTAA
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CKTikTok
Instagram: http://bit.ly/CoraInsta
BookBub: http://bit.ly/CoraBookBub
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 2, 2025
Tormented Diamonds picks up where Tortured Hearts ended and wastes no time diving into the action.
Gianna and Becca are some of my favorite mafia characters and with good reason. A walking paradox, Gianni is a complex hero who stays true to his nature, but makes room to feel the feelings the doc elicits. The definition of a survivor, Becca’s resilience is unmatched. Likewise, she embraced his dark side without hesitation and simultaneously grew into her own role as the Fire Queen, a companion worthy of the don of the Marchesi Empire.
TD completes Gianni and Becca’s story and is every bit as explosive as their romance. It is a perfect and satisfying conclusion with so much grit. Their journey was a visceral experience for the reader with heartbreak and redemption, violence and betrayal, love and obsession.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣😳🥵😩😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Action, Dark, New Adult, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Bad Boy x Good Girl, Forbidden, Family Saga, Forced Marriage, Forced Proximity, Good Girl > Dark Queen, Heroine in Danger, Hidden Identity, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, OTT Hero, Tattooed MMC, Touch-Her-and-💀
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, Breath Play, Dirty Talk, Discipline/Punishment, Domination, Inanimate Object, Orgäsm Denial
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will have you DoorDashing batteries for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Tormented Diamonds is the conclusion to the Marchesi Empire series. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Gianna and Becca are some of my favorite mafia characters and with good reason. A walking paradox, Gianni is a complex hero who stays true to his nature, but makes room to feel the feelings the doc elicits. The definition of a survivor, Becca’s resilience is unmatched. Likewise, she embraced his dark side without hesitation and simultaneously grew into her own role as the Fire Queen, a companion worthy of the don of the Marchesi Empire.
TD completes Gianni and Becca’s story and is every bit as explosive as their romance. It is a perfect and satisfying conclusion with so much grit. Their journey was a visceral experience for the reader with heartbreak and redemption, violence and betrayal, love and obsession.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣😳🥵😩😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Action, Dark, New Adult, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Bad Boy x Good Girl, Forbidden, Family Saga, Forced Marriage, Forced Proximity, Good Girl > Dark Queen, Heroine in Danger, Hidden Identity, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, OTT Hero, Tattooed MMC, Touch-Her-and-💀
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, Breath Play, Dirty Talk, Discipline/Punishment, Domination, Inanimate Object, Orgäsm Denial
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will have you DoorDashing batteries for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Tormented Diamonds is the conclusion to the Marchesi Empire series. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
October 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (ARC)
''Addictions like you are the reason empires fall''
Safety warning:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Loss of loved ones
- Trauma
- Mention of s*xual assault
- S*x trafficking
- Gun and blood play
- Kidnapping
- Violence/d*ath
- HEA
The final chapter in Becca and Gianni's story and what a roller coaster it has been.
The story starts where book 2 ended and we Becca furious over everything that has happened. Things are a bit shaky with Gianni but honestly these two are finally able to express how they feel without fear.
These two have gone through so much pain over the years and this ending needed to happen for them to finally move on from their past and start their future together.
Gianni showed us here even more as to why he is known as the Torch and the darker side of his mind. He finally lets her in, and she is not afraid but intrigued. We get some hot scenes with them and her accepting the darkness that Gianni lives in.
We finally get the answers that has been plaguing our minds and Becca's from book 1 - who killed her mother. The tangled mess that is her life and the decisions her father made sadly that led to them all.
These two got the ending they deserved and even though we know about them in the future because we get to see their son's story play out in City of Thieves it was nice to see their story from the beginning.
''Addictions like you are the reason empires fall''
Safety warning:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Loss of loved ones
- Trauma
- Mention of s*xual assault
- S*x trafficking
- Gun and blood play
- Kidnapping
- Violence/d*ath
- HEA
The final chapter in Becca and Gianni's story and what a roller coaster it has been.
The story starts where book 2 ended and we Becca furious over everything that has happened. Things are a bit shaky with Gianni but honestly these two are finally able to express how they feel without fear.
These two have gone through so much pain over the years and this ending needed to happen for them to finally move on from their past and start their future together.
Gianni showed us here even more as to why he is known as the Torch and the darker side of his mind. He finally lets her in, and she is not afraid but intrigued. We get some hot scenes with them and her accepting the darkness that Gianni lives in.
We finally get the answers that has been plaguing our minds and Becca's from book 1 - who killed her mother. The tangled mess that is her life and the decisions her father made sadly that led to them all.
These two got the ending they deserved and even though we know about them in the future because we get to see their son's story play out in City of Thieves it was nice to see their story from the beginning.
October 5, 2025
Phenomenal Conclusion to Marchesi Empire Trilogy
This author is back with a vengeance. Ms. Kenborn absolutely killed this trilogy giving me everything I love in my books. The intensity kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Becca and Gianni have such an intricate relationship which had me feeling totally invested in this couple.
This book, this series, was a masterpiece in this genre giving me a dark romance that I highly recommend.
This author is back with a vengeance. Ms. Kenborn absolutely killed this trilogy giving me everything I love in my books. The intensity kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Becca and Gianni have such an intricate relationship which had me feeling totally invested in this couple.
This book, this series, was a masterpiece in this genre giving me a dark romance that I highly recommend.
October 6, 2025
This was the last book in the marchesi empire series. I have loved it so much. It was a perfect ending. I 10/10 recommend this book.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 26, 2025
A perfect conclusion to this trilogy!! The story picks up right where the previous book left off, so you need to read them all in order to read this one.
Becca is angry about what transpired at the end of book 2, but she has no time to dwell on her fears. She must face them head on to survive. And Gianni, too, must come to terms with his inner demons. And, of course, they have to watch out for those who want to threaten their happiness and Gianni's empire.
This book was packed with action and suspense and it was never dull. It had the right pacing because as the main mafia plot gets untangled, Gianni and Becca get even more tangled into each other's inner world. Both of them will embrace a new side they didn't know they have, but will their love be enough to fight those who want them dead? You will question Gianni's loyalties a lot, but in the end it will be worth it!!
I'm really glad Mrs. Kenborn is back!!
Becca is angry about what transpired at the end of book 2, but she has no time to dwell on her fears. She must face them head on to survive. And Gianni, too, must come to terms with his inner demons. And, of course, they have to watch out for those who want to threaten their happiness and Gianni's empire.
This book was packed with action and suspense and it was never dull. It had the right pacing because as the main mafia plot gets untangled, Gianni and Becca get even more tangled into each other's inner world. Both of them will embrace a new side they didn't know they have, but will their love be enough to fight those who want them dead? You will question Gianni's loyalties a lot, but in the end it will be worth it!!
I'm really glad Mrs. Kenborn is back!!
September 27, 2025
“Anton, do you think being vulnerable to love is worth the risk of it breaking you?” He’s silent for a minute, then a serious look falls across his face. “I think regrets will break a man faster than vulnerability. Love isn’t for the weak. It can rip apart more flesh than any bullet or blade. But a wound from lost love bleeds slower than one from love you turned your back on.”
This is a worthy ending to a very well written trilogy, steeped in psychological warfare, violence, betrayal, vengeance, compromise, deceit, greed and survival. It has complex characters, each of them with a background story motivating their choices, but it's the main characters and their coup-de-foudre relationship fuelling the blaze it ignites in the reader's heart. He is darkness with a hidden light, and she is light with a dark edge - two faces of the human soul:
“See this coin, my love? Most people think there are only two sides, but that’s not true.” I flip it vertically. “See this thin part that separates them? That’s called a gray area. It’s neither the front nor the back. It’s stuck somewhere in the middle, holding them both together.”
So much pain, so much suffering in the world, so much cold-hearted violence, so much unfairness and so little redemption... this story has it all. It certainly isn't for the faint of heart, but it does have a keen insight into the psychology of the tortured, the tormented and the brave, into the consequences of childhood trauma and the power of greed.
Cora Kenborn is a very talented author, and is now one of my favorites despite my grudge for making me feel so much for such dark, mafioso-like, lawless characters by showing their human side. Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
"Obsession and revenge are easy to judge from the outside. It’s once you step inside that fiery circle that you realize labels of right and wrong are judgments handed down by people who have never been burned. I think of Gianni’s words in my Providence hospital room. “Tomorrow will never come without putting an end to today.”
"My mother believed love wasn’t something you fell into. It was a stain on your soul you couldn’t outrun.”
"[...] the only constant in life is change. You either bend with it or fold to it. But anchors don’t fold. They keep you grounded to weather the storms that come your way."
"Good and bad are just labels, Rosie. There are people who’ll judge you; not because they don’t like you, but because they don’t understand you.”
I will definitely read more of this author, very well done!
This is a worthy ending to a very well written trilogy, steeped in psychological warfare, violence, betrayal, vengeance, compromise, deceit, greed and survival. It has complex characters, each of them with a background story motivating their choices, but it's the main characters and their coup-de-foudre relationship fuelling the blaze it ignites in the reader's heart. He is darkness with a hidden light, and she is light with a dark edge - two faces of the human soul:
“See this coin, my love? Most people think there are only two sides, but that’s not true.” I flip it vertically. “See this thin part that separates them? That’s called a gray area. It’s neither the front nor the back. It’s stuck somewhere in the middle, holding them both together.”
So much pain, so much suffering in the world, so much cold-hearted violence, so much unfairness and so little redemption... this story has it all. It certainly isn't for the faint of heart, but it does have a keen insight into the psychology of the tortured, the tormented and the brave, into the consequences of childhood trauma and the power of greed.
Cora Kenborn is a very talented author, and is now one of my favorites despite my grudge for making me feel so much for such dark, mafioso-like, lawless characters by showing their human side. Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
"Obsession and revenge are easy to judge from the outside. It’s once you step inside that fiery circle that you realize labels of right and wrong are judgments handed down by people who have never been burned. I think of Gianni’s words in my Providence hospital room. “Tomorrow will never come without putting an end to today.”
"My mother believed love wasn’t something you fell into. It was a stain on your soul you couldn’t outrun.”
"[...] the only constant in life is change. You either bend with it or fold to it. But anchors don’t fold. They keep you grounded to weather the storms that come your way."
"Good and bad are just labels, Rosie. There are people who’ll judge you; not because they don’t like you, but because they don’t understand you.”
I will definitely read more of this author, very well done!
September 26, 2025
Thank you again to Cora Kenborn and Nest Step PR for the opportunity to read an ARC of Tormented Diamond and provide my honest review.
Tormented Diamonds picks up right where we left off in Tortured Hearts. For the sake of avoiding any plot spoilers, I will not include too much in terms of plot points. However, I can say that we saw some really great character growth in this book, and got even more plot twists and turns that were unexpected.
Gianni has proven in the first two books in the series that he will do anything to protect his girl, and that does not falter. In fact, if it’s even possible, he even more down bad in Tormented Diamonds for Becca. Snoopy FBI agents? Power hungry capos? Nothing will get between him and his wife.
Becca continues to be a strong ass woman in this book. She may not have grown up in the mafia life, but she sure as hell adapts well to it. She also is her husband’s biggest supporter, even if he doesn’t believe in himself. Some might call her a Fire Queen.
This was the perfect book to conclude this trilogy and definitely worth the wait for its release. Funny enough, I already Renzo’s book, but may have to go back and reread now that I have the full story of his parents. I very much look forward to the rest of the upcoming second gen series and to get cameos from Gianni and Becca.
Tormented Diamonds picks up right where we left off in Tortured Hearts. For the sake of avoiding any plot spoilers, I will not include too much in terms of plot points. However, I can say that we saw some really great character growth in this book, and got even more plot twists and turns that were unexpected.
Gianni has proven in the first two books in the series that he will do anything to protect his girl, and that does not falter. In fact, if it’s even possible, he even more down bad in Tormented Diamonds for Becca. Snoopy FBI agents? Power hungry capos? Nothing will get between him and his wife.
Becca continues to be a strong ass woman in this book. She may not have grown up in the mafia life, but she sure as hell adapts well to it. She also is her husband’s biggest supporter, even if he doesn’t believe in himself. Some might call her a Fire Queen.
This was the perfect book to conclude this trilogy and definitely worth the wait for its release. Funny enough, I already Renzo’s book, but may have to go back and reread now that I have the full story of his parents. I very much look forward to the rest of the upcoming second gen series and to get cameos from Gianni and Becca.
October 6, 2025
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
The third and final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy is incredible just like the first and second books. This fast-paced story was too hard to put down once I started it.
I absolutely adore how Becca’s character grew, perhaps not in ways most people might, but in all the ways that matter to her and Gianni. Likewise, Gianni's complex character takes on the emotions drawn out by Becca. Together they truly are a powerful couple.
Their relationship journey suffered betrayal, violence (but being in the mafia that’s a given), and redemption. It also celebrated their immense love—almost to the point of obsession) and a family.
Without giving any more away, the intensity of action-packed and drama-filled scenes helps to make this a showstopper book. This is one of the best trilogies I have ever read: dark, gritty, sensual, dramatic, and filled with incredible suspense.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
The third and final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy is incredible just like the first and second books. This fast-paced story was too hard to put down once I started it.
I absolutely adore how Becca’s character grew, perhaps not in ways most people might, but in all the ways that matter to her and Gianni. Likewise, Gianni's complex character takes on the emotions drawn out by Becca. Together they truly are a powerful couple.
Their relationship journey suffered betrayal, violence (but being in the mafia that’s a given), and redemption. It also celebrated their immense love—almost to the point of obsession) and a family.
Without giving any more away, the intensity of action-packed and drama-filled scenes helps to make this a showstopper book. This is one of the best trilogies I have ever read: dark, gritty, sensual, dramatic, and filled with incredible suspense.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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October 3, 2025
Suspense-filled, gritty mafia love story
This is the finale of a three-book series about the romance between Dr. Becca Brennan and reluctant mafioso Gianni Marchesi. As with the last books, this one starts off strong and remains that way throughout. It opens with their wedding under duress. Becca witnessed something that could mean her execution by the mafia unless she agrees to marry Gianni. It works to both their benefits because there are feelings on both sides but resistance to give into those feelings as well.
If you like mafia romances that are raw with explicit scenes of torture, abduction and passion, you will love this book! We met Dr. Brennan in book one as an uptight psychiatrist meeting a new patient named Johnny Malone who is the irreverent bad boy with a witty reply for everything. By this third book, some mysteries have been solved and I am confident the rest will be resolved by the ending which is poignant and passionate.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. Loved this entire series and have admittedly waited impatiently for this last book. Cautionary note from author in the beginning.
This is the finale of a three-book series about the romance between Dr. Becca Brennan and reluctant mafioso Gianni Marchesi. As with the last books, this one starts off strong and remains that way throughout. It opens with their wedding under duress. Becca witnessed something that could mean her execution by the mafia unless she agrees to marry Gianni. It works to both their benefits because there are feelings on both sides but resistance to give into those feelings as well.
If you like mafia romances that are raw with explicit scenes of torture, abduction and passion, you will love this book! We met Dr. Brennan in book one as an uptight psychiatrist meeting a new patient named Johnny Malone who is the irreverent bad boy with a witty reply for everything. By this third book, some mysteries have been solved and I am confident the rest will be resolved by the ending which is poignant and passionate.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book. Loved this entire series and have admittedly waited impatiently for this last book. Cautionary note from author in the beginning.
October 5, 2025
I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
The third and final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy is incredible just like the first and second books. This fast-paced story was too hard to put down once I started it.
I absolutely adore how Becca’s character grew, perhaps not in ways most people might, but in all the ways that matter to her and Gianni. Likewise, Gianni's complex character takes on the emotions drawn out by Becca. Together they truly are a powerful couple.
Their relationship journey suffered betrayal, violence (but being in the mafia that’s a given), and redemption. It also celebrated their immense love—almost to the point of obsession) and a family.
Without giving any more away, the intensity of action-packed and drama-filled scenes helps to make this a showstopper book. This is one of the best trilogies I have ever read: dark, gritty, sensual, dramatic, and filled with incredible suspense.
October 6, 2025
Tormented Diamonds isn’t just a love story — it’s a war between loyalty, guilt, and obsession. It’s about a man who would burn the world to protect the one person he was trying to keep safe… and a woman who loses herself in the fire to stand beside him.
The writing is raw, almost painful at times. You feel every torn promise, every violent choice, every moment where love turns into something darker — something dangerous. Becca’s transformation is both tragic and powerful. Watching her unravel and rebuild herself in the chaos hits hard.
This story isn’t clean or gentle — it’s messy, violent, and emotionally heavy. But if you’ve ever craved a romance where love feels like both a weapon and a lifeline, this book will stay with you.
A love like this doesn’t heal — it scars. And somehow, that’s what makes it unforgettable.
October 4, 2025
WOW!! What a fantastic way to round off The Marchesi trilogy.
Tormented Diamonds was the perfect twisted mind fxxk of wicked games, scandalous liaisons, dark obsession and dangerous intent, but I wouldn't expect anything less from this author.
Johnny and Becca are still a scorching inferno together. They will do whatever it takes to protect those they love. A war is coming but vengeance is a powerful and seductive motivator, it's just the spark they need to burn it all down, consequences be damned.
Loved this trilogy so much, highly entertaining, dark, dangerous and utterly exhilarating. 🖤
Tormented Diamonds was the perfect twisted mind fxxk of wicked games, scandalous liaisons, dark obsession and dangerous intent, but I wouldn't expect anything less from this author.
Johnny and Becca are still a scorching inferno together. They will do whatever it takes to protect those they love. A war is coming but vengeance is a powerful and seductive motivator, it's just the spark they need to burn it all down, consequences be damned.
Loved this trilogy so much, highly entertaining, dark, dangerous and utterly exhilarating. 🖤
October 5, 2025
This is the conclusion to the Marchesi trilogy and it does not disappoint. We start right where Tortured Hearts left off and it just keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole ride. Gianni and Becca are hit left and right nonstop in this wild ride and even with the freefalls they make it to their HEA. The emotional rollercoaster finally comes to an end and things fall as they should. We get the closures we’ve been needing and a perfect ending that does the characters justice. Truly loved this book and the series as a whole. Definitely a must read that will have you not wanting it to end.
October 25, 2025
Ms. Kenborn is one of my favorite mafia authors and this series was one of the best she has written (yeah I read all three again before leaving a review, sorry).
There is never a dull moment, twists and turns galore, lies and deception around every corner, emotional and witty banter and chemistry so hot you'll get burned.
If you love a strong FMC and a possessive, dominating MMC, you'll love this trilogy. The author has outdone herself with this series.
Without hesitation I am giving these books 5 stars!
There is never a dull moment, twists and turns galore, lies and deception around every corner, emotional and witty banter and chemistry so hot you'll get burned.
If you love a strong FMC and a possessive, dominating MMC, you'll love this trilogy. The author has outdone herself with this series.
Without hesitation I am giving these books 5 stars!
October 1, 2025
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✔️ Morally Gray Anti-Hero
✔️ Forced Marriage
✔️ Return of the Past
✔️ Vigilante Justice
✔️ Kidnapping
✔️ Revenge
✔️ Good Girl Turned Dark Queen
✔️ Touch Her and 💀
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
Tormented Diamonds is the third and final installment of the Marchesi Empire series. It is filled with spice, twists, and angst, keeping me engaged from beginning to end. Gianni and Becca’s story comes to a satisfying conclusion, which I was looking for. Sometimes I was uncertain about Gianni’s character, but ultimately, he won me over. One of the main things I enjoyed about this Mafia series is that it felt pretty different from other mafia romances I have read. Gianni being a pyromaniac and Becca being his therapist added to that uniqueness. The twists and turns kept coming throughout the series, which I loved. I am giving Tormented Diamonds a rating of 4.5 / 5 stars.
✔️ Morally Gray Anti-Hero
✔️ Forced Marriage
✔️ Return of the Past
✔️ Vigilante Justice
✔️ Kidnapping
✔️ Revenge
✔️ Good Girl Turned Dark Queen
✔️ Touch Her and 💀
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
Tormented Diamonds is the third and final installment of the Marchesi Empire series. It is filled with spice, twists, and angst, keeping me engaged from beginning to end. Gianni and Becca’s story comes to a satisfying conclusion, which I was looking for. Sometimes I was uncertain about Gianni’s character, but ultimately, he won me over. One of the main things I enjoyed about this Mafia series is that it felt pretty different from other mafia romances I have read. Gianni being a pyromaniac and Becca being his therapist added to that uniqueness. The twists and turns kept coming throughout the series, which I loved. I am giving Tormented Diamonds a rating of 4.5 / 5 stars.
October 1, 2025
4.75
I have really loved this book and the conclusion to their story. Everything wrapped up really nicely and felt like it came full circle. There is so much growth within these characters not just as individuals but also as a couple. Watching Gianni become so whole the moment he finally let's his walls down, was really reliving, as it allowed me to feel some kind of peace knowing that he was opening himself up. Becca is such a strong character that goes through so much trauma but she handles it like a fucking queen and opens herself up to seeing a new side of the world that she hadn't seen before. The writing as always was beautifully paced and written with the perfect amount of tension to build the perfect conclusion. Highly recommend picking up this series if you haven't already.
I have really loved this book and the conclusion to their story. Everything wrapped up really nicely and felt like it came full circle. There is so much growth within these characters not just as individuals but also as a couple. Watching Gianni become so whole the moment he finally let's his walls down, was really reliving, as it allowed me to feel some kind of peace knowing that he was opening himself up. Becca is such a strong character that goes through so much trauma but she handles it like a fucking queen and opens herself up to seeing a new side of the world that she hadn't seen before. The writing as always was beautifully paced and written with the perfect amount of tension to build the perfect conclusion. Highly recommend picking up this series if you haven't already.
October 5, 2025
Being the final book in this phenomenal trilogy I knew I was going to be in for a treat.
Could the danger and suspense be any higher than the last two books? Hell Yeah! ….I didn’t think it could get any higher, but this author took it to a whole new level. I’m in a state of shock with everything that transpires. I had my kindle in a death grip from start to finish. I was unable to look away and flew through the pages in this book. It was so addictive to read.
Could the danger and suspense be any higher than the last two books? Hell Yeah! ….I didn’t think it could get any higher, but this author took it to a whole new level. I’m in a state of shock with everything that transpires. I had my kindle in a death grip from start to finish. I was unable to look away and flew through the pages in this book. It was so addictive to read.
October 10, 2025
Fantastic conclusion!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: heroine in peril
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Such a great series! I absolutely love strong heroines and a well developed plot. Tons of action and plenty of twists and turns to keep you glued till the end. I'm going to have to go back and reread Enzo's book while we wait for Rosalie's - can't wait!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: heroine in peril
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Such a great series! I absolutely love strong heroines and a well developed plot. Tons of action and plenty of twists and turns to keep you glued till the end. I'm going to have to go back and reread Enzo's book while we wait for Rosalie's - can't wait!
October 3, 2025
What an incredible conclusion to this trilogy! I’m an emotional mess but in such a good way. The story of Gianni and Becca is not for the feint of heart but it is one you will want to read. I devoured their story because I was so mesmerized by this authors words that I needed to find out what happens like I needed air to breathe. Gianni is oh so dark and delicious and the way he loves and protects Becca with his whole being made me fall in love with him over and over. And Becca is so perfect for him in so many ways that I can’t explain but I knew in my heart she was the one for him. Many times I cringed and I wanted to throw my Kindle out the window but I still knew in my heart that the path I was taken on would lead to not just lust, but to love. The chemistry between them is so hot your fingers will burn as they turn the pages. These two characters are so ingrained in my heart and soul that I can’t even explain the depths of love that I have for Gianni and Becca. Please, I beg of you, read Torched Spades and Tortured Hearts before you read this unbelievable conclusion so that you can fully understand these characters and storyline. I am thoroughly blown away this story and so will you!
September 29, 2025
A hero will sacrifice you to save the world, but a villain will sacrifice the world to save you.” That line is Gianni Marchesi—and why I’m obsessed with this finale.
Cora Kenborn gave us everything I crave in a mafia romance: danger, betrayal, obsession, and a love story that’s as forbidden as it is unforgettable. Gianni is the kind of antihero who will burn a city to ash for Becca, and Becca matches him blow for blow. She’s not a damsel—she’s his queen, and together they’re fire and fury.
This trilogy has been one hell of a ride, but Tormented Diamonds was the perfect ending—dark, intense, and utterly addictive. If you’re like me and can’t resist mafia, antiheroes, and love that feels like war, Gianni and Becca will own you.
Cora Kenborn gave us everything I crave in a mafia romance: danger, betrayal, obsession, and a love story that’s as forbidden as it is unforgettable. Gianni is the kind of antihero who will burn a city to ash for Becca, and Becca matches him blow for blow. She’s not a damsel—she’s his queen, and together they’re fire and fury.
This trilogy has been one hell of a ride, but Tormented Diamonds was the perfect ending—dark, intense, and utterly addictive. If you’re like me and can’t resist mafia, antiheroes, and love that feels like war, Gianni and Becca will own you.
October 4, 2025
Holy mother of trilogy’s! Absolutely beyond perfection as we wrap up these phenomenal sorties by the outstanding Cora!
Becca and Gabriel did not disappoint. The suspense and the chemistry between the two is insane!
Cora has always been a favorite, so happy that she has delivered the perfect ending to this trilogy! 🖤
Becca and Gabriel did not disappoint. The suspense and the chemistry between the two is insane!
Cora has always been a favorite, so happy that she has delivered the perfect ending to this trilogy! 🖤
October 1, 2025
Tormented Diamonds takes book 3 out on a bang. We learn a lot more of the story both of deceptions and personal stories of Gianni and Becca. Theres still such insane chemistry between the two main characters and it makes for such a good read. Even better is their soul deep connection that only builds in this book and has them understanding each other on an even deeper level. It was a great way to end the series and the loose ends were tied up well. It was a great series, all 3 books were great.
September 27, 2025
I want to say a massive thank you to The Next Step PR and Cora Kenborn for the ARC of Tormented Diamonds.
I've been on the edge of my seat waiting on books 2 and 3 since reading book 1 a few years ago. I'm so thankful I was able to get ARCs for the next two in the trilogy! I can say with 100% certainty it was a delicious ride from beginning to end!
As this book picks up right. where the second book ended, you must read the previous ones to continue in this epic journey. Cora Kenborn gave us many twists and turns that hooked me from the beginning. I could absolutely not get enough of her writing!
We left Becca at the end of book 2 angry with the things that had transpired. She's been through much pain and suffering but has come out stronger. Which is definitely needed to be the counterpart to Gianni. He is dark and delicious and full of many layers that we got to see throughout this trilogy.
All in all this was a perfect ending to the trilogy and I especially loved the epilogue! It leaves me eager to see what comes next from her!
I've been on the edge of my seat waiting on books 2 and 3 since reading book 1 a few years ago. I'm so thankful I was able to get ARCs for the next two in the trilogy! I can say with 100% certainty it was a delicious ride from beginning to end!
As this book picks up right. where the second book ended, you must read the previous ones to continue in this epic journey. Cora Kenborn gave us many twists and turns that hooked me from the beginning. I could absolutely not get enough of her writing!
We left Becca at the end of book 2 angry with the things that had transpired. She's been through much pain and suffering but has come out stronger. Which is definitely needed to be the counterpart to Gianni. He is dark and delicious and full of many layers that we got to see throughout this trilogy.
All in all this was a perfect ending to the trilogy and I especially loved the epilogue! It leaves me eager to see what comes next from her!
September 26, 2025
An Epic Ending to a Wild Ride
I’ve been waiting for this final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy, and Cora Kenborn totally nailed it. The story picks up right where the last one left off, so make sure you’ve read Torched Spades and Tortured Hearts first.
This book is packed with action, drama, and twists that kept me turning pages. Gianni and Becca’s relationship is messy, intense, and full of fire. Becca doesn’t just sit back. She fights for herself, and Gianni has to prove he’s worth her trust. Their chemistry is insane.
As the Mafia plot unfolds, their emotional journey gets even deeper. You’ll question Gianni’s choices, but it all comes together in the end. I loved how raw and real it felt.
Cora’s writing is sharp and addictive. I’m so glad she’s back. This was the perfect way to wrap up the trilogy.
I’ve been waiting for this final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy, and Cora Kenborn totally nailed it. The story picks up right where the last one left off, so make sure you’ve read Torched Spades and Tortured Hearts first.
This book is packed with action, drama, and twists that kept me turning pages. Gianni and Becca’s relationship is messy, intense, and full of fire. Becca doesn’t just sit back. She fights for herself, and Gianni has to prove he’s worth her trust. Their chemistry is insane.
As the Mafia plot unfolds, their emotional journey gets even deeper. You’ll question Gianni’s choices, but it all comes together in the end. I loved how raw and real it felt.
Cora’s writing is sharp and addictive. I’m so glad she’s back. This was the perfect way to wrap up the trilogy.
October 3, 2025
Wow, what an ending to my favorite trilogy !! Gianni and Becca have become the best mafia couple ever. He makes us question if one does bad things for the right reasons, are they really bad, especially if they can save many. Get lost in the morally gray fires of the Marchesi Empire.
September 24, 2025
I was so excited for this final book in the Marchesi Empire trilogy to come out. I knew Cora wouldn't disappoint and believe me, she didn't. She tied this entire trilogy up perfectly. In true Mafia style, there's plenty of action. The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is not a stand alone. You need to start at the beginning with Torched Spades and Tortured Hearts. You'll definitely want to read the trigger warnings too. Cora is a phenomenal author. She had me both falling in love with and hating Gianni at the same time from the very beginning. He may be an a$$, but he loves her and will protect her at all cost. Something he'll have to prove to her. Becca is fierce. She may have been forced into this situation but that doesn't mean she sits there quietly, in the corner. She gives as good as she gets. Together they heat up the pages. 🔥🔥🔥
Gianni and Becca
One Man. One Woman
One Eternal Flame
Read their story now
Gianni and Becca
One Man. One Woman
One Eternal Flame
Read their story now
September 29, 2025
What an epic finale! Gianni found his fire queen in Becca! When I thought everything was going good, 💥, there’s an explosion of feelings, revenge, heartbreak and so much more! I devoured this last book. This mafia trilogy is one of my favorite! The way it has you on edge on every page 🫡. It’s captivating, this is the culmination of two people that have gone through a lot. A monster in disguise with no heart. An inquisitive psychiatrist that doesn’t stop at nothing. The monster resurrected from the ashes to execute his revenge, because she is untouchable,and if you mess with his queen, he will literally burn the world to avenge her!!! 🔥🔥🔥It’s perfection! This a 6 star book!!! Read the trigger warnings, because there’s a lot, but it’s so well written that you will eat it up!
6⭐️
4🌶️
6⭐️
4🌶️
September 27, 2025
love this series
love this family
loved Gianni and Becca heartstopping broken beautiful insta love story
love the twists
Gripping
Heartwrenching
Gimme more
Gimme the sec gen
love this family
loved Gianni and Becca heartstopping broken beautiful insta love story
love the twists
Gripping
Heartwrenching
Gimme more
Gimme the sec gen
October 6, 2025
This book deserves 1000 stars if it were up to me. This is absolutely the perfect conclusion to this trilogy and I cannot get over the feeling of utter contentment reading it. I am about to start rereading this series again. So worth the wait.
October 7, 2025
What a terrific ending it was, mind-blowing non-stop mystery and suspense. You experienced the highs and lows with its incredible cast of characters.
There was incredible growth from both characters, especially Gianni, and we got to know who the real torchbearer was. As you flew through the chapters, you saw Becca shed the layers of her old life piece by piece as she became Gianni's Fire Queen. We need to put Anton in the spotlight, as he was a big part of this ongoing plot, and his loyalty knows no bounds. We loved his character, and he will always be one of those memorable characters.
The chemistry between this couple is so explosive that the flames seemed to come up from the pages. We loved seeing their relationship blossom, which was not always easy, but Becca pushed Gianni to communicate, especially when he started to withdraw.
This story was filled with all kinds of different emotions, some dark, some making you uneasy, but their love was so overwhelming that even in the darkest times, the light shone through.
Becca really surprised us throughout this entire story with her transformation. She is clever, beautiful, determined, and a force to be reckoned with. After all the things that have been done to her, life always hanging in the balance, she needed to adapt to the new environment to survive and become a true Marchesi Queen.
Gianni is a complex character who wears many faces, but with Becca, he tries to be a better man. This man was dark and dangerous, giving off the vibes of a touch of death. You could not help being drawn to his darkness; it was dangerous, sinful, and exciting all at the same time. He was out for revenge and would do anything to protect his wife and the life they were building, even giving his own life.
The secrets that had arisen were also mind-blowing, confirming what a horrible person Gianni's father was. He was the dregs of life. Some other secrets were hard to wrap your mind around.
We could go on and on about how much we loved this plot, its ending, and its new beginning. It was a gripping plot and a page-turner. This story had it all: intrigue, revenge, mystery, suspense, love, chemistry, witty banter, dark elements, torture, violence, growth, loyalty, and was filled with emotion and regret.
We loved the epilogue, and we are sorry to see them go. Ms. Kenborn gave us a glimpse of what the next generation of the Marchesi family looks like, and we are looking forward to the next adventure.
Ms. Kenborn's mafia romance is some of the best we have ever read. If you love reading mafia romance, this is an author we would definitely recommend.
With every romance we have ever read of hers, we have always fallen in love with her characters, and Gianni is a memorable character not to be forgotten. This series is definitely one of our favorite series for 2025 and goes to the to-be-read again, as we love revisiting our favorite characters over and over again.
There was incredible growth from both characters, especially Gianni, and we got to know who the real torchbearer was. As you flew through the chapters, you saw Becca shed the layers of her old life piece by piece as she became Gianni's Fire Queen. We need to put Anton in the spotlight, as he was a big part of this ongoing plot, and his loyalty knows no bounds. We loved his character, and he will always be one of those memorable characters.
The chemistry between this couple is so explosive that the flames seemed to come up from the pages. We loved seeing their relationship blossom, which was not always easy, but Becca pushed Gianni to communicate, especially when he started to withdraw.
This story was filled with all kinds of different emotions, some dark, some making you uneasy, but their love was so overwhelming that even in the darkest times, the light shone through.
Becca really surprised us throughout this entire story with her transformation. She is clever, beautiful, determined, and a force to be reckoned with. After all the things that have been done to her, life always hanging in the balance, she needed to adapt to the new environment to survive and become a true Marchesi Queen.
Gianni is a complex character who wears many faces, but with Becca, he tries to be a better man. This man was dark and dangerous, giving off the vibes of a touch of death. You could not help being drawn to his darkness; it was dangerous, sinful, and exciting all at the same time. He was out for revenge and would do anything to protect his wife and the life they were building, even giving his own life.
The secrets that had arisen were also mind-blowing, confirming what a horrible person Gianni's father was. He was the dregs of life. Some other secrets were hard to wrap your mind around.
We could go on and on about how much we loved this plot, its ending, and its new beginning. It was a gripping plot and a page-turner. This story had it all: intrigue, revenge, mystery, suspense, love, chemistry, witty banter, dark elements, torture, violence, growth, loyalty, and was filled with emotion and regret.
We loved the epilogue, and we are sorry to see them go. Ms. Kenborn gave us a glimpse of what the next generation of the Marchesi family looks like, and we are looking forward to the next adventure.
Ms. Kenborn's mafia romance is some of the best we have ever read. If you love reading mafia romance, this is an author we would definitely recommend.
With every romance we have ever read of hers, we have always fallen in love with her characters, and Gianni is a memorable character not to be forgotten. This series is definitely one of our favorite series for 2025 and goes to the to-be-read again, as we love revisiting our favorite characters over and over again.
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