What do you think?
Rate this book
Gentle Sinners #5
Broken Support
Ludovica Barone has always known her place as a daughter in La Cosa Nostra, but after her father is taken out, she’s left with few options. Manipulating the remaining capos in her family to keep the business afloat while fending off their advances is exhausting. She knows marriage would be the best way to stabilize the family, but her choices are less than ideal.
The only support she receives is from Enzo Di Salvo, the spy from the family who destroyed her father. He sees way too much, about her and about the family, but instead of using it against her, he begins stepping in to help. During her most vulnerable moment, he’s there to clean up the mess.
He’d make the perfect husband, if she has to have one. Only, when she proposes, he turns her down. Ludovica can’t let him get away with that.
Enzo is appalled when the much younger Mafia princess asks him to marry her. Even if he were twenty years younger, he’d never wanted to lead. But the longer he watches Ludovica, the more he realizes she doesn’t need a leader for a husband. No, she needs someone willing to stand at her back and help her carve out her own unique path. Exactly the skills he brings to the table.
Ludovica isn’t one to wait for him to change his mind, though. When she takes matters into her own hands to convince him of how perfect they’d be together, Enzo is shocked by how far she’ll go to have him. Shocked and enthralled.
Enzo Di Salvo belongs to her. And soon everyone will know it.
With wounded but vengeful heroines and protective, morally gray heroes, the Gentle Sinners series contains interconnected standalones with steamy, open door scenes and no cliff hangers.
Amber Warden’s stories often include characters overcoming tragic pasts or current hardships and may include situations that not everyone would like to read. Content notes are included in the look inside to help you decide if this story is for you.
The only support she receives is from Enzo Di Salvo, the spy from the family who destroyed her father. He sees way too much, about her and about the family, but instead of using it against her, he begins stepping in to help. During her most vulnerable moment, he’s there to clean up the mess.
He’d make the perfect husband, if she has to have one. Only, when she proposes, he turns her down. Ludovica can’t let him get away with that.
Enzo is appalled when the much younger Mafia princess asks him to marry her. Even if he were twenty years younger, he’d never wanted to lead. But the longer he watches Ludovica, the more he realizes she doesn’t need a leader for a husband. No, she needs someone willing to stand at her back and help her carve out her own unique path. Exactly the skills he brings to the table.
Ludovica isn’t one to wait for him to change his mind, though. When she takes matters into her own hands to convince him of how perfect they’d be together, Enzo is shocked by how far she’ll go to have him. Shocked and enthralled.
Enzo Di Salvo belongs to her. And soon everyone will know it.
With wounded but vengeful heroines and protective, morally gray heroes, the Gentle Sinners series contains interconnected standalones with steamy, open door scenes and no cliff hangers.
Amber Warden’s stories often include characters overcoming tragic pasts or current hardships and may include situations that not everyone would like to read. Content notes are included in the look inside to help you decide if this story is for you.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
1 person is currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Amber Warden
32 books50 followersA former numbers cruncher, Amber Warden left the accounting world to write emotional and steamy contemporary romance instead.
Her main hope is for those reading to take away the feeling that they are more than enough for anyone.
When she's not writing, she's reading shoujo manga, playing otome games, and listening to her favorite J-rock music.
She'd love to hear from her readers:
amberwardenauthor@gmail.com
Instagram @amberwardenwrites
Facebook @amberwardenauthor
Her main hope is for those reading to take away the feeling that they are more than enough for anyone.
When she's not writing, she's reading shoujo manga, playing otome games, and listening to her favorite J-rock music.
She'd love to hear from her readers:
amberwardenauthor@gmail.com
Instagram @amberwardenwrites
Facebook @amberwardenauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 15, 2025
This is a Dark Mafia Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Gentle Sinners series. I have read the first four books in this series, and I have loved reading this series so much. I did not want to put this book down. I love the characters, and I love getting more of Enzo. Enzo was strong but also gentle to Ludovica. I love how strong Ludovica's character was. Great read and I will keep reading this series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
September 9, 2025
I saw this book advertised on the author's instagram with "she kidnaps him" and I was hooked. Too many mafia romances follow a blueprint of bossy men and weak or innocent women. Not this one! It features a morally grey, ruthless Ludovica who just "inherited" her crime family but nobody in it respects a woman. Except Enzo, who's surprisingly supportive and prefers to follow, not bid for leadership. He wishes for his own family and children, but is in denial thinking he's too old, not alpha enough, and feels guilty he caused the death of a woman he loved in the past, since then he swore off relationships and sex. But Ludovica isn't a person who accepts being told "no", so she takes matters into her own hands. Both because she feels safe with Enzo, and because she hates all the other men trying to force her into sex and marriage with them.
The story utilizes the body betrayal trope and "mc finds they like it all along after being forced". It's a contentious trope, and I do personally feel Enzo folded all too neatly. If you don't like that trope in dark romances, or the breeding kink, you'll likely not enjoy this book.
I personally feel Vespa's story might be more to my liking, based on how badass she's presented in this book, I might have to look into the author's backlist.
For what this book is set to accomplish, I think it's well done and big plus for a morally grey heroine who's actually morally grey, i.e. gives no damns, kills people, etc. Too often morally grey fmcs are more rude or vain than actually do anything evil.
This book also revolves around pregnancy trope, both mcs want children (fmc wants an heir, mmc likes children and regrets not having any), so if that's your turn off in romances, be warned.
Overall I feel this is a very unique mafia romance that flips the common gender dynamic seen in it, and both leads are more interesting for it, while still fitting within the mafia sub-genre framework. I'm definitely interested to see what the author writes next.
TW: it includes a non-con forced breeding scene, kidnapping, drugging, and general mafia business including violence, torture, murder (incl. family members), forced prostitution and violent rape attempt.
It's mafia, most of those characters are not good and they're also damaged with skewed morals. Read at your own risk. Most of it isn't depicted especially gruesomely / gorey, but it's all there.
ARC received from Booksprout.
The story utilizes the body betrayal trope and "mc finds they like it all along after being forced". It's a contentious trope, and I do personally feel Enzo folded all too neatly. If you don't like that trope in dark romances, or the breeding kink, you'll likely not enjoy this book.
I personally feel Vespa's story might be more to my liking, based on how badass she's presented in this book, I might have to look into the author's backlist.
For what this book is set to accomplish, I think it's well done and big plus for a morally grey heroine who's actually morally grey, i.e. gives no damns, kills people, etc. Too often morally grey fmcs are more rude or vain than actually do anything evil.
This book also revolves around pregnancy trope, both mcs want children (fmc wants an heir, mmc likes children and regrets not having any), so if that's your turn off in romances, be warned.
Overall I feel this is a very unique mafia romance that flips the common gender dynamic seen in it, and both leads are more interesting for it, while still fitting within the mafia sub-genre framework. I'm definitely interested to see what the author writes next.
TW: it includes a non-con forced breeding scene, kidnapping, drugging, and general mafia business including violence, torture, murder (incl. family members), forced prostitution and violent rape attempt.
It's mafia, most of those characters are not good and they're also damaged with skewed morals. Read at your own risk. Most of it isn't depicted especially gruesomely / gorey, but it's all there.
ARC received from Booksprout.
August 15, 2025
I really enjoyed Book 5 in the Gentle Sinners series and could not put it down. I enjoy reading about broken characters finding each other and becoming whole individuals and dynamic couples as a result. It was great to see Uncle Enzo get his happy ending!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my first time reading something by this author and this book was ok for me. I probably would have connected more with the story and the main characters if I had read the previous parts of the series because I would probably know the background of the whole story. But this wasn't bad either and the important thing is that I enjoyed it.
This is my first time reading something by this author and this book was ok for me. I probably would have connected more with the story and the main characters if I had read the previous parts of the series because I would probably know the background of the whole story. But this wasn't bad either and the important thing is that I enjoyed it.
September 17, 2025
"After he woke up, he was going to hate her."
Unlike most, I never found Enzo to be that laid back and friendly. Despite Antonio claiming Di Salvos don't kill women, Enzo threatened to do exactly that to two pretty unthreatening women. First, he put a gun to Mylene's head in "Broken Protector". Then he did the same to tiny little Nera in "Broken Captive". Neither time did he appear like he wasn't completely serious. Just like Nera, I never completely trusted him anymore. I also began to suspect that he wasn't what he appeared to be. I felt that Enzo hid his real feelings behind his outward laid-back smile, just like Antonio does, but Enzo is better at it. Yes, Antonio was king of the Cheshire Cat smiles, but no one ever would have believed he was anything but dangerous. Enzo fooled everyone.
In this book, Enzo is actually not as amiable as in the past. He carries a lot of emotional damage from the past, and some of it isn't warranted. Yes, he should feel guilty for getting Inessa murdered. She never betrayed the Di Salvos. But he has let his foolish infatuation with her basically cripple him when it comes to love. I don't actually believe he ever truly loved her. I think what he felt was a complicated mixture of lust, affection, pity, and protection. When guilt was later added to the mix, I think it made it worse. By the end of "Broken Consent" he admitted he no longer had any feelings of love for her. He saw how fake and manipulative she was. Even in this new book he admits he knows she didn't care about him at all. So I don’t understand why he never realized what he felt for her was never love or why he has let her continue to mess with his head, even all these years later.
I was surprised at how strong and capable Ludovica was, especially with her upbringing. I was also amazed she wasn't more emotionally damaged. That actually was the biggest thing that bothered me in this book. She was raped, repeatedly over several years by a bunch of pedophiles and yet no one, not her, not even Enzo acknowledged that's exactly what it was. They danced around it, and while they knew it wasn't anything but wrong, they never labeled it rape nor gave the title of pedophile to her tormentors. I also don't understand how Cesare was able to force her to do it. Why didn't she fight him from the beginning and go to her father for protection? While Leandro was no prince, he had to know the value of his daughter and I'm sure he would have protected her, even if just to make sure she was the prize he wanted to use to create an alliance with one day.
This book is not nearly as dark or filled with plot, action, or emotional anguish as the other books in the series. It also seemed much shorter, although after checking the page count, it's actually only about 20 pages less than the first two books. I guess it's because so much more was packed into those earlier books. This story is calmer and more focused on the characters than the plot. I really liked Enzo and Ludovica together and as a couple. They were surprisingly cute. It was a pretty perfect match and what both of them needed most in life. The balanced each other beautifully.
My only disappointment was that despite several mentions, we never got to see Sebastian Guzman even once. After they started talking about meeting him, I was expecting it to happen. Oh well, I'm sure Amber still has his book in the works, and I'll get to see him again in the future.
While this book could possibly be read as a standalone, at a minimum "Broken Consent", the series prequel, should be read first as it's the story of Enzo and Inessa. While not a happy tale, it's necessary to understand what Enzo went through all those years ago. It's also a given that this book has tons of spoilers for several prior books in the series. Plus, there are a number of characters in this book that will be pretty meaningless if you haven't read the other books. It won't be confusing, but there is depth that will be missed.
I will admit, I'll be sad if this is the last we see of the Di Salvo and Coronella families. I've grown quite fond of them all, and I hate to think this is goodbye. But isn't that exactly how a wonderful book or series should feel at the end?
Unlike most, I never found Enzo to be that laid back and friendly. Despite Antonio claiming Di Salvos don't kill women, Enzo threatened to do exactly that to two pretty unthreatening women. First, he put a gun to Mylene's head in "Broken Protector". Then he did the same to tiny little Nera in "Broken Captive". Neither time did he appear like he wasn't completely serious. Just like Nera, I never completely trusted him anymore. I also began to suspect that he wasn't what he appeared to be. I felt that Enzo hid his real feelings behind his outward laid-back smile, just like Antonio does, but Enzo is better at it. Yes, Antonio was king of the Cheshire Cat smiles, but no one ever would have believed he was anything but dangerous. Enzo fooled everyone.
In this book, Enzo is actually not as amiable as in the past. He carries a lot of emotional damage from the past, and some of it isn't warranted. Yes, he should feel guilty for getting Inessa murdered. She never betrayed the Di Salvos. But he has let his foolish infatuation with her basically cripple him when it comes to love. I don't actually believe he ever truly loved her. I think what he felt was a complicated mixture of lust, affection, pity, and protection. When guilt was later added to the mix, I think it made it worse. By the end of "Broken Consent" he admitted he no longer had any feelings of love for her. He saw how fake and manipulative she was. Even in this new book he admits he knows she didn't care about him at all. So I don’t understand why he never realized what he felt for her was never love or why he has let her continue to mess with his head, even all these years later.
I was surprised at how strong and capable Ludovica was, especially with her upbringing. I was also amazed she wasn't more emotionally damaged. That actually was the biggest thing that bothered me in this book. She was raped, repeatedly over several years by a bunch of pedophiles and yet no one, not her, not even Enzo acknowledged that's exactly what it was. They danced around it, and while they knew it wasn't anything but wrong, they never labeled it rape nor gave the title of pedophile to her tormentors. I also don't understand how Cesare was able to force her to do it. Why didn't she fight him from the beginning and go to her father for protection? While Leandro was no prince, he had to know the value of his daughter and I'm sure he would have protected her, even if just to make sure she was the prize he wanted to use to create an alliance with one day.
This book is not nearly as dark or filled with plot, action, or emotional anguish as the other books in the series. It also seemed much shorter, although after checking the page count, it's actually only about 20 pages less than the first two books. I guess it's because so much more was packed into those earlier books. This story is calmer and more focused on the characters than the plot. I really liked Enzo and Ludovica together and as a couple. They were surprisingly cute. It was a pretty perfect match and what both of them needed most in life. The balanced each other beautifully.
My only disappointment was that despite several mentions, we never got to see Sebastian Guzman even once. After they started talking about meeting him, I was expecting it to happen. Oh well, I'm sure Amber still has his book in the works, and I'll get to see him again in the future.
While this book could possibly be read as a standalone, at a minimum "Broken Consent", the series prequel, should be read first as it's the story of Enzo and Inessa. While not a happy tale, it's necessary to understand what Enzo went through all those years ago. It's also a given that this book has tons of spoilers for several prior books in the series. Plus, there are a number of characters in this book that will be pretty meaningless if you haven't read the other books. It won't be confusing, but there is depth that will be missed.
I will admit, I'll be sad if this is the last we see of the Di Salvo and Coronella families. I've grown quite fond of them all, and I hate to think this is goodbye. But isn't that exactly how a wonderful book or series should feel at the end?
September 10, 2025
Major spoilers ahead.
I already knew Enzo from book 1 (Gio and Nera’s story) and the prequel short story Broken Consent but having not read the others in the series had not heard of Ludovica. I was amazed at how strong she was trying to lead the Barone mafia family in the face of the misogynistic, patriarchal La Cosa Nostra. All the more so when we learn that her brother had sex trafficked her when she was a 15-year-old child to many of the rapist capos she now has to face daily. Sha also has to deal with the fact that they don’t think she can lead them and is only there to be married off to the ‘real’ leader. When the capo who had first raped her at 15, attempts to do so again in order to grab power, she kills him in self-defence. I cheered to know she de membered him while he was still alive. Enzo is the Di Salvo representative overseeing the Barone rebuilding, but he is also an efficient ‘cleaner’, and that is who Ludovica calls to deal with the dead body. She starts to realise that he could be the best option for her husband but when she proposes, he turns her down as he thinks he is far too old for her. Desperate, she drugs and chains him to her bed and rapes him repeatedly to try to get herself pregnant. In stories with the noncon reversed we often have the woman’s body betraying her. Enzo’s member betrays him but it the talk of creating a baby that turns him on. The difference here is that Ludovica has no enjoyment and is in fact in pain until the final time. Once Enzo decides he wants to marry Luve, he is all in. Loved his support for her, believing in her and wanting her to stop shrinking herself and when he knelt for her… swoon. He also shows her how enjoyable sex can be when her pleasure comes first. Loved Luve’s quiet strength and vulnerability (even over something insignificant as a pool game) and her comfort in Enzo’s soft stomach. Enzo’s wedding present was everything.
Triggers other than the above. Lots of gun violence, torture, and murder.
4.5 stars
I already knew Enzo from book 1 (Gio and Nera’s story) and the prequel short story Broken Consent but having not read the others in the series had not heard of Ludovica. I was amazed at how strong she was trying to lead the Barone mafia family in the face of the misogynistic, patriarchal La Cosa Nostra. All the more so when we learn that her brother had sex trafficked her when she was a 15-year-old child to many of the rapist capos she now has to face daily. Sha also has to deal with the fact that they don’t think she can lead them and is only there to be married off to the ‘real’ leader. When the capo who had first raped her at 15, attempts to do so again in order to grab power, she kills him in self-defence. I cheered to know she de membered him while he was still alive. Enzo is the Di Salvo representative overseeing the Barone rebuilding, but he is also an efficient ‘cleaner’, and that is who Ludovica calls to deal with the dead body. She starts to realise that he could be the best option for her husband but when she proposes, he turns her down as he thinks he is far too old for her. Desperate, she drugs and chains him to her bed and rapes him repeatedly to try to get herself pregnant. In stories with the noncon reversed we often have the woman’s body betraying her. Enzo’s member betrays him but it the talk of creating a baby that turns him on. The difference here is that Ludovica has no enjoyment and is in fact in pain until the final time. Once Enzo decides he wants to marry Luve, he is all in. Loved his support for her, believing in her and wanting her to stop shrinking herself and when he knelt for her… swoon. He also shows her how enjoyable sex can be when her pleasure comes first. Loved Luve’s quiet strength and vulnerability (even over something insignificant as a pool game) and her comfort in Enzo’s soft stomach. Enzo’s wedding present was everything.
Triggers other than the above. Lots of gun violence, torture, and murder.
4.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2025
Amber Warden delivers another dark, emotional, and gripping addition to her Gentle Sinners series with Ludovica and Enzo’s story.
Although this book can be read as a standalone, I found myself wishing I’d read the previous four first. The author does an excellent job of catching readers up on the other characters’ stories, but because those storylines are so interconnected, I sometimes got mixed up. That’s not a flaw in the writing—it’s simply a testament to how richly developed this world is.
This book explores themes I don’t often see, and it left a mark. There is a scene of Nc/C initiated by the FMC toward the MMC. Out of the 500+ books I’ve read, this is only the third one where that dynamic shows up, and it hit differently here—challenging, unsettling, but also thought-provoking in the way it was handled. Pair that with the strong breeding kink theme, and you’ve got a romance that doesn’t shy away from intensity.
At its core, though, this is Ludovica’s story—a young woman who’s lost so much and is determined to reclaim her voice, her power, and her future. Watching her manipulate, scheme, and ultimately demand what she wants was deeply satisfying. And Enzo? The reluctant protector who realizes he’s exactly the partner she needs? He balances her fire perfectly.
I received a free ARC of this book and this review is only my opinion.
Although this book can be read as a standalone, I found myself wishing I’d read the previous four first. The author does an excellent job of catching readers up on the other characters’ stories, but because those storylines are so interconnected, I sometimes got mixed up. That’s not a flaw in the writing—it’s simply a testament to how richly developed this world is.
This book explores themes I don’t often see, and it left a mark. There is a scene of Nc/C initiated by the FMC toward the MMC. Out of the 500+ books I’ve read, this is only the third one where that dynamic shows up, and it hit differently here—challenging, unsettling, but also thought-provoking in the way it was handled. Pair that with the strong breeding kink theme, and you’ve got a romance that doesn’t shy away from intensity.
At its core, though, this is Ludovica’s story—a young woman who’s lost so much and is determined to reclaim her voice, her power, and her future. Watching her manipulate, scheme, and ultimately demand what she wants was deeply satisfying. And Enzo? The reluctant protector who realizes he’s exactly the partner she needs? He balances her fire perfectly.
I received a free ARC of this book and this review is only my opinion.
September 28, 2025
Broken Support was my first novel of the Gentle Sinners series (or Amber Warden for that matter) and I have a delayed FOMO trauma response! 😭
OMG, I found my new bookboyfriend husband in Enzo! 🖤
If I ever become the heir to a mafia family, I want him at my side! 🫠
You know how there are all these "reverse" terms flying around in the romance genre?
Like reverse harem, reverse age gap,...?
I am declaring this one reverse mafia romance! 🤪
Don't get me wrong...
...the MMC is 100% morally grey with the whole "touch her and die" vibe and he will step in, if she needs him to. 🫠 #swoon
My favorite quotes:
What I loved:
What I struggled with:
Storyline-wise, I still find it strange why one mafia family would monitor (and not annihilate) another mafia family? 👀
But that's the only (!) thing I could fault this book for, which says A LOT. So just ignore all of this... 🤷♀️
What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalones
🫂dual POV, 3rd person
🔪dark mafia romance
🧓age gap (24F, 49M)
🪆he calls her doll (which she hates! 🤣)
🔥strong FMC, who is not a virgin
For the safety squad:
This is a dark romance, so read the trigger warnings!
I personally did not like the forced transactional sex in past.
But I had no problem with the reverse noncon/dubcon whatsoever. 🌶️👀
OMG, I found my new book
If I ever become the heir to a mafia family, I want him at my side! 🫠
You know how there are all these "reverse" terms flying around in the romance genre?
Like reverse harem, reverse age gap,...?
I am declaring this one reverse mafia romance! 🤪
Don't get me wrong...
...the MMC is 100% morally grey with the whole "touch her and die" vibe and he will step in, if she needs him to. 🫠 #swoon
My favorite quotes:
"You're not throwing me back, are you? You said I was yours. "
"Stay armed. Don't be alone. I'll hurry home."
"You're the only person I want to kneel for like this. I'm on my knees for you. Only ever you."
What I loved:
What I struggled with:
Storyline-wise, I still find it strange why one mafia family would monitor (and not annihilate) another mafia family? 👀
But that's the only (!) thing I could fault this book for, which says A LOT. So just ignore all of this... 🤷♀️
What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalones
🫂dual POV, 3rd person
🔪dark mafia romance
🧓age gap (24F, 49M)
🪆he calls her doll (which she hates! 🤣)
🔥strong FMC, who is not a virgin
For the safety squad:
This is a dark romance, so read the trigger warnings!
I personally did not like the forced transactional sex in past.
But I had no problem with the reverse noncon/dubcon whatsoever. 🌶️👀
September 5, 2025
Ludovica is a strong woman who has survived many things in life, but it hasn't been easy with her father's departure. She takes the reins of the mafia, but not everyone agrees, and that's where Ludovica will have to make moves to make the bosses accept her or pay the price for offending her. But while she makes her way, she desires a man, a man she can't have, and that's where things get explosive.
Enzo, that man, my God, melted me, but he carries wounds from the past and has denied himself happiness for a long time, and that's where Ludovica comes in to shake up his world. He rejected her once, but she didn't give up. She took down the man and made him hers. He accepted everything she wanted to give him, making her the woman of his life.
Seeing how the feelings between them grew was beautiful, seeing how Ludovica becomes stronger and begins to trust Enzo and finds in him the support to be stronger was amazing, seeing how Enzo opened up to Ludovica and accepted all the feelings he had in order to have the happy ending that they both wanted to have a family, the road was not easy, but the reward is the most beautiful thing to see and that is what the book gave a whirlwind of emotions.
Enzo, that man, my God, melted me, but he carries wounds from the past and has denied himself happiness for a long time, and that's where Ludovica comes in to shake up his world. He rejected her once, but she didn't give up. She took down the man and made him hers. He accepted everything she wanted to give him, making her the woman of his life.
Seeing how the feelings between them grew was beautiful, seeing how Ludovica becomes stronger and begins to trust Enzo and finds in him the support to be stronger was amazing, seeing how Enzo opened up to Ludovica and accepted all the feelings he had in order to have the happy ending that they both wanted to have a family, the road was not easy, but the reward is the most beautiful thing to see and that is what the book gave a whirlwind of emotions.
October 3, 2025
Car rides with Enzo…priceless 😳😂!! Ludovica’s first ride in the car with Enzo driving was hilarious!! This story also has heart, heat, angst, and suspense with a happy ending that was so good!
I received a free copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
In an underworld filled with both expected and unexpected enemies, Ludovica tries to take her rightful place as the head of the Barone family, while Enzo fights to keep her safe. He does not overshadow Ludovica; instead, together they complement each other's strengths as they join forces in and out of the bedroom and a powerful passion ignites between them.
I always love strong female characters and that is just one of many reasons why I found myself addicted to this series. I adored Enzo, obviously, but I completely fell in love with Ludovica, and I was so happy to watch her grow as a character. They are two very strong-willed characters, both shaped by their past experiences.
The pages flew by, hours passed quickly and boom...over too soon. Like with any good book/series that I have read, I'm always a little sad when it is over. I am holding onto hope that Tomasso’s story will be told.
I received a free copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
In an underworld filled with both expected and unexpected enemies, Ludovica tries to take her rightful place as the head of the Barone family, while Enzo fights to keep her safe. He does not overshadow Ludovica; instead, together they complement each other's strengths as they join forces in and out of the bedroom and a powerful passion ignites between them.
I always love strong female characters and that is just one of many reasons why I found myself addicted to this series. I adored Enzo, obviously, but I completely fell in love with Ludovica, and I was so happy to watch her grow as a character. They are two very strong-willed characters, both shaped by their past experiences.
The pages flew by, hours passed quickly and boom...over too soon. Like with any good book/series that I have read, I'm always a little sad when it is over. I am holding onto hope that Tomasso’s story will be told.
August 30, 2025
3.5✨ Just when I thought this series was over, she comes back with more. Enzo (49?) definitely deserved a happy ending after the ordeal he went through. I just loved how down he was for her once he let himself feel his feelings for her. Also, I enjoyed how soft and “carefree” he was, but I’m glad that we got to see his hard side. I kind of feel like he deserved better than Ludovica, I just felt like they weren’t a match.
Part of me had a hard time with Ludovica (25). My heart broke for the things she went through. I’m not gonna lie the whole kidnapping chapters kind of made me uncomfortable. I’m just not much for the whole kidnapping troupe in general. If I’m being honest I had a hard time with her in the beginning, but then she kind of grew on me.
Be sure to check your trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#1 Broken Protector
#2 Broken Captive
#3 Broken Worth
#4 Broken Resolve
Broken Worth still remains my favorite.
Part of me had a hard time with Ludovica (25). My heart broke for the things she went through. I’m not gonna lie the whole kidnapping chapters kind of made me uncomfortable. I’m just not much for the whole kidnapping troupe in general. If I’m being honest I had a hard time with her in the beginning, but then she kind of grew on me.
Be sure to check your trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#1 Broken Protector
#2 Broken Captive
#3 Broken Worth
#4 Broken Resolve
Broken Worth still remains my favorite.
September 12, 2025
Enzo’s story is bittersweet, but so beautifully hopeful! Ludovica is a product of a horrifying brother’s need for advancement and her spine of steel. Amber Warden’s writing is poetry in motion: deeply emotional, ruthlessly dramatic, and exquisitely painful! I am so happy for Enzo and Ludovica’s addition to this series: he sacrificed so much and she suffered too much! Mind the TW for your peace of mind.
It takes a strong man to appreciate a strong woman. Enzo sees her pain and supports her quietly as she stakes her claim over her family. La Cosa Nostra is about respect and loyalty: her ability to lead is awe inspiring! A perfect balance of romance, healing, and love that grows as she learns how to trust: his patience is astounding and her bravery speaks volumes! The heat between them is intense as he teaches her about pleasure instead of pain! I love this couple, their chemistry, and their future!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It takes a strong man to appreciate a strong woman. Enzo sees her pain and supports her quietly as she stakes her claim over her family. La Cosa Nostra is about respect and loyalty: her ability to lead is awe inspiring! A perfect balance of romance, healing, and love that grows as she learns how to trust: his patience is astounding and her bravery speaks volumes! The heat between them is intense as he teaches her about pleasure instead of pain! I love this couple, their chemistry, and their future!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2025
I have really enjoyed this series. I was surprised and happy to see Enzo get his own book. When I first started to read this book, it mentioned Broken Consent - a novella about Enzo set in the past. So I stopped and got that one first as this book mentioned it would be better to read that one first. I agree that it will give you a bit more info on the back story. I would definitely suggest reading all of them and in order. It is worth the read.
a little more about what a liked about the book - with spoilers...
a little more about what a liked about the book - with spoilers...
September 28, 2025
I recieved the Arc for free and I'm leaving my review voluntarily
At its core, though, this is Ludovica’s story—a young woman who’s lost so much and is determined to reclaim her voice, her power, and her future. Watching her manipulate, scheme, and ultimately demand what she wants was deeply satisfying. And Enzo? The reluctant protector who realizes he’s exactly the partner she needs? He balances her fire perfectly.
I was surprised at how strong and capable Ludovica was, especially with her upbringing. I was also amazed she wasn't more emotionally damaged.I love the characters, and I love getting more of Enzo. Enzo was strong but also gentle to Ludovica. I love how strong Ludovica's character was.
At its core, though, this is Ludovica’s story—a young woman who’s lost so much and is determined to reclaim her voice, her power, and her future. Watching her manipulate, scheme, and ultimately demand what she wants was deeply satisfying. And Enzo? The reluctant protector who realizes he’s exactly the partner she needs? He balances her fire perfectly.
I was surprised at how strong and capable Ludovica was, especially with her upbringing. I was also amazed she wasn't more emotionally damaged.I love the characters, and I love getting more of Enzo. Enzo was strong but also gentle to Ludovica. I love how strong Ludovica's character was.
September 10, 2025
Oh wow the dynamic between Ludovica and Enzo was so good. Enzo was fighting with himself for most of the way but Ludovica isn't taking no for an answer.
Chemistry is the word between these two. Enzo is protective but resilient. Where as Ludovica is almost bratty, stubborn but needs support when she doesn't really have any. Her officers are making demands on her for marriage and she needs protection.
Such an interesting story. A story that was written in an original way with characters that drew me in.
So well done full of danger, suspense and drama. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it's a first by this Author for me. So great!
Chemistry is the word between these two. Enzo is protective but resilient. Where as Ludovica is almost bratty, stubborn but needs support when she doesn't really have any. Her officers are making demands on her for marriage and she needs protection.
Such an interesting story. A story that was written in an original way with characters that drew me in.
So well done full of danger, suspense and drama. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it's a first by this Author for me. So great!
September 4, 2025
Luvi and Enzo are meant to be and I don't care how long it takes them to realize it. This is a brutal and beautiful ride, the story line is action packed and hits all of the feels from good to bad.
Luvi plays the perfect air headed woman in the family until she finally shows her true colors and the backbone of steel that she has to support her family. This is an amazing story of coming into power, self realization, and showing off how to be a girl boss in the way some men need to be shown.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Luvi plays the perfect air headed woman in the family until she finally shows her true colors and the backbone of steel that she has to support her family. This is an amazing story of coming into power, self realization, and showing off how to be a girl boss in the way some men need to be shown.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
Ludovica Barone had few choices when her father is taken out. She knows she needs to make a match to in order to maintain control of the Cosa Nostra. She receives no support from capos, the only one who does support her is Enzo Di Salvo. She believes he would make her the perfect husband. She proposes but he turns her down, he does not want to lead not realizing that is not what she needs.
Ludovica is not going to take that lying down, she is more determined that he is the correct one for her.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ludovica is not going to take that lying down, she is more determined that he is the correct one for her.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2025
This was a quick read for me and though I’m not very fond of books written in third person, it was still a good story! I had a hard time keeping up with who was who sometimes because you meet a lot of people in this book. But I LOVED how gentle Enzo was, he knew exactly what to do and when. Love an age gap romance.
September 9, 2025
I had thought this series was completed but when this came out, it was a must read. I was pleasantly surprised that this was about their Uncle Enzo. He is perfect for Ludovica. He provided patience, support, and understanding that she never had before. It definitely hit all the feels.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2025
Broken Support is book 5 in the Gentle Sinners series and is Enzo and Ludovica's story. Great story about 2 strong but broken souls who help each other heal in ways they could only do for each other. Great addition to this series!
August 30, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this book!! It was so refreshing to read a Mafia romance where the woman was in charge. Watching Enzo support her no matter what was so refreshing.
And watching her process all the trauma she had been through with him at her side was absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend this book
I loved this book!! It was so refreshing to read a Mafia romance where the woman was in charge. Watching Enzo support her no matter what was so refreshing.
And watching her process all the trauma she had been through with him at her side was absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend this book
September 10, 2025
Book five of the Gentle Sinners. I enjoyed it from the start. I was engaged. Enzo and Ludovica are wonderful characters with a strong attraction.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2025
I thought this was a great read I couldn’t put it down turning the pages. I can’t wait to read more from this Amber Warden. I thought this was well written and the characters were great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2025
Gah! Loved this so much
This series has been amazing and refreshing. I’ve loved every minute of it. This book was a wonderful addition to the series and I’m so glad Amber decided to write it.
This series has been amazing and refreshing. I’ve loved every minute of it. This book was a wonderful addition to the series and I’m so glad Amber decided to write it.
September 15, 2025
This is the fifth book in the Gentle Sinners series. It’s a very entertaining story. I couldn’t stop turning the pages! The characters have great chemistry. I loved how they helped each other heal from troubled pasts. A must read.
September 18, 2025
She finally decided on a husband, now Ludovica has some convincing to do to change Enzo’s mind and get him to marry her. A steamy mafia read with plenty of drama and mafia politics along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
September 4, 2025
Broken Support, the fifth installment in the Gentle Sinners series, piqued my interest despite not having read the preceding books. The premise of Ludovica, the formidable head of the Cosa Nostra, wielding power to lead and effect change, resonated with me. It was refreshing to encounter a mafia romance where the female protagonist holds the top position. I eagerly anticipated the unfolding of the story as she fought for her rightful place at the head of the table.
Enzo Di Salvo, a spy from Ludovica’s family who had destroyed her father, provided her with assistance. Despite his initial reluctance due to his perceived age, he remained steadfast in his protection. The story was progressing well until the kidnapping scene abruptly disrupted the narrative. I found myself unable to progress beyond those chapters, feeling repulsed by the content. To my surprise, Enzo later changed his mind and decided to marry Ludovica. I wished the author had explored alternative avenues for their union, and the persistent age gap discussion regarding Enzo became increasingly frustrating. After enduring these setbacks, I reluctantly finished the story to put it behind me. I genuinely wish this book had taken a different turn.
Enzo Di Salvo, a spy from Ludovica’s family who had destroyed her father, provided her with assistance. Despite his initial reluctance due to his perceived age, he remained steadfast in his protection. The story was progressing well until the kidnapping scene abruptly disrupted the narrative. I found myself unable to progress beyond those chapters, feeling repulsed by the content. To my surprise, Enzo later changed his mind and decided to marry Ludovica. I wished the author had explored alternative avenues for their union, and the persistent age gap discussion regarding Enzo became increasingly frustrating. After enduring these setbacks, I reluctantly finished the story to put it behind me. I genuinely wish this book had taken a different turn.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews