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Clemenza Family #2
The Beast Who Broke Me
I escaped the beast who bought me at auction. I thought I could take my throne back alone. I was wrong.
I only have one option left.
Go back to the beast.
But this time, I have a muzzle for the monster.
A choke-chain to bring him to heel.
I'll use him. Control him. Pray that he'll keep me alive long enough to take what's mine.
But every night I'm under his roof, the line between strategy and surrender gets thinner. And every fight ends the same way: with his hand at my throat and me begging him not to stop.
He bought me.
He chained me.
He's still the only thing standing between me and whoever wants me dead.
Losing him would end me.
But letting him break me might be worse.
The Beast Who Broke Me is book 2 of a dark MM romance trilogy following the same couple and ends on a cliffhanger. Expect captivity, obsession, possessiveness, toxic dynamics, and all the red flags. These antiheroes will earn their happily ever after, but they’ll have to fight hard to get there.
Content guidance can be found on the author's website.
I only have one option left.
Go back to the beast.
But this time, I have a muzzle for the monster.
A choke-chain to bring him to heel.
I'll use him. Control him. Pray that he'll keep me alive long enough to take what's mine.
But every night I'm under his roof, the line between strategy and surrender gets thinner. And every fight ends the same way: with his hand at my throat and me begging him not to stop.
He bought me.
He chained me.
He's still the only thing standing between me and whoever wants me dead.
Losing him would end me.
But letting him break me might be worse.
The Beast Who Broke Me is book 2 of a dark MM romance trilogy following the same couple and ends on a cliffhanger. Expect captivity, obsession, possessiveness, toxic dynamics, and all the red flags. These antiheroes will earn their happily ever after, but they’ll have to fight hard to get there.
Content guidance can be found on the author's website.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2026
About the author
Leighton Greene
39 books453 followersLeighton Greene has been writing stories since she was old enough to hold a pencil. Her first book was a choose-your-own-adventure style book about deciding what to eat for breakfast. It didn't shake the New York Times bestseller list, but she still has a copy of it.
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
May 30, 2026
Well, that was fucked up.
The only thing more fucked than everything in this book is me waiting until fucking October for the final book!
Absolutely brutal cliffie.
The only thing more fucked than everything in this book is me waiting until fucking October for the final book!
Absolutely brutal cliffie.
June 1, 2026
I NEED LEIGHTON GREENE TO STEP TO THE FRONT OF THE CLASS RIGHT NOW!!!!
OMG THIS WAS GOOOD! Talk about freaking delicious!!!!!!!
Cal and Dami are back sweeter, spicier, and more venomous! Even though in my heart I knew Dami wouldn't truly hurt Cal that over-the-stairs scene I swore he was gonna go through with it.
Leighton is smart with her titles; since book one, we've been using the title Beast, but it wasn't until this continuation that the title truly earned the name because I'm not gonna lie, DAMIANO definitely was awakened in his beastly form because daaaaamn siiiir!
Personally, I underestimated the man that is Damiano Orsini
lol and it's no surprise he broke Caligula.
“I just nod, because what else is there to say? He owns me. He hurts me. He puts himself in front of knives and bullets for me. The math of Damiano Orsini doesn’t add up, and I’ve stopped trying to make it.”
Now before I forget why I'm here lol it was so good seeing Luca, Nick, and even Finch again especially my baby Nick Fontana the only Gee I ever trusted besides Seb.
Speaking of, there is no way Seb went the way that traitor said he did, I REFUSE TO BELIEVE THAT JUDAS UNTIL I'VE GOTTEN PROOF.
Oh lord, when I started this series, I didn't expect to be this invested in the other families, especially the Clemenzas and the Gees!!!!!
Big Gee is an airhead scumbag that deserves the full wrath of that is Luca D’Amato because make no mistake he may be the Morelli Don but let's not forget how he became so and Big Gee has made a huge mistake.
Feel as if I'm rambling but this second book I devoured twice already just because! I laughed and sobbed especially the last few chapters and I don't think I like Leighton for what she's doing to my boys.
“Caligula sits on the loveseat. I sit next to him, feeling like some giant bear sitting down to take tea with Goldilocks and Snow White.”
Lmao I reread this scene unhealthily lol.
Overall this was a smashing hit and I can't wait for the final installment in the series, job well done Leighton!
OMG THIS WAS GOOOD! Talk about freaking delicious!!!!!!!
Cal and Dami are back sweeter, spicier, and more venomous! Even though in my heart I knew Dami wouldn't truly hurt Cal that over-the-stairs scene I swore he was gonna go through with it.
Leighton is smart with her titles; since book one, we've been using the title Beast, but it wasn't until this continuation that the title truly earned the name because I'm not gonna lie, DAMIANO definitely was awakened in his beastly form because daaaaamn siiiir!
Personally, I underestimated the man that is Damiano Orsini
lol and it's no surprise he broke Caligula.
“I just nod, because what else is there to say? He owns me. He hurts me. He puts himself in front of knives and bullets for me. The math of Damiano Orsini doesn’t add up, and I’ve stopped trying to make it.”
Now before I forget why I'm here lol it was so good seeing Luca, Nick, and even Finch again especially my baby Nick Fontana the only Gee I ever trusted besides Seb.
Speaking of, there is no way Seb went the way that traitor said he did, I REFUSE TO BELIEVE THAT JUDAS UNTIL I'VE GOTTEN PROOF.
Oh lord, when I started this series, I didn't expect to be this invested in the other families, especially the Clemenzas and the Gees!!!!!
Big Gee is an airhead scumbag that deserves the full wrath of that is Luca D’Amato because make no mistake he may be the Morelli Don but let's not forget how he became so and Big Gee has made a huge mistake.
Feel as if I'm rambling but this second book I devoured twice already just because! I laughed and sobbed especially the last few chapters and I don't think I like Leighton for what she's doing to my boys.
“Caligula sits on the loveseat. I sit next to him, feeling like some giant bear sitting down to take tea with Goldilocks and Snow White.”
Lmao I reread this scene unhealthily lol.
Overall this was a smashing hit and I can't wait for the final installment in the series, job well done Leighton!
June 13, 2026
Addicted is the best way to describe my feelings about Caligula and Damiano. I'm bummed book #3 (it's a trilogy) isn't out yet but it's something to look forward to.
Caligula may have been worn down for a smidge in this book, hence broken in the title. But man, he's looking like someone who is turning into a phoenix, rising from the (literal) ashes. Watch out anyone who's fucked with my boy Caligula and his enforcer. There's a new family coming (back) to town and I'm hoping payback is a bitch, baby!
Blog Review at-
Caligula may have been worn down for a smidge in this book, hence broken in the title. But man, he's looking like someone who is turning into a phoenix, rising from the (literal) ashes. Watch out anyone who's fucked with my boy Caligula and his enforcer. There's a new family coming (back) to town and I'm hoping payback is a bitch, baby!
Blog Review at-
May 30, 2026
warning!! this series is not for the faint of heart. it is not like the other series’ in this universe. it is far darker. please read the warnings before starting the series.
truthfully, with how dark the content is, it is not something i thought i would like.
however, i love this universe so much and greene’s style of writing, i trusted her. i was right to, it was as easy to get wrapped up in this world as i have in all her others. the second book was a great follow up to the first.
the relationship development between caligula and damiano was so perfectly executed it in this book. it had the right build up, so that hopefully in the third book we can finally see them fully focus on coming to terms with their real feelings.
the spice is dark, but so sexy because… they like it like that. it’s less harsh than in the first book, though.
i’m so glad i only had to wait one day after reading the first one to get to read the second one. except it took me 4 hours to read it and i now have to wait until october to finally get our hea. and after that cliffhanger… 😭
i genuinely don’t know how i’m going to survive. this is why i hate reading WIP’s, but i just wasn’t ready to be finished with the mob universe. i feel so sad now that i am.
*will come back to add in details about the story. initial review on my phone right after finishing*
truthfully, with how dark the content is, it is not something i thought i would like.
however, i love this universe so much and greene’s style of writing, i trusted her. i was right to, it was as easy to get wrapped up in this world as i have in all her others. the second book was a great follow up to the first.
the relationship development between caligula and damiano was so perfectly executed it in this book. it had the right build up, so that hopefully in the third book we can finally see them fully focus on coming to terms with their real feelings.
the spice is dark, but so sexy because… they like it like that. it’s less harsh than in the first book, though.
i’m so glad i only had to wait one day after reading the first one to get to read the second one. except it took me 4 hours to read it and i now have to wait until october to finally get our hea. and after that cliffhanger… 😭
i genuinely don’t know how i’m going to survive. this is why i hate reading WIP’s, but i just wasn’t ready to be finished with the mob universe. i feel so sad now that i am.
*will come back to add in details about the story. initial review on my phone right after finishing*
July 29, 2026
Ahhhh that cliffhanger totally killed me 🔥💀
I need more, like right now (please and thank you 🙏)
Honestly, I don't really understand why I'm enjoying this series so much. It has a strange pull on me.
So, despite this feeling frequently repetitious in places (even the spice - total buzz kill), I couldn't put it down...
Will definitely be picking up the third and final installment when it's released 🤌
I need more, like right now (please and thank you 🙏)
Honestly, I don't really understand why I'm enjoying this series so much. It has a strange pull on me.
So, despite this feeling frequently repetitious in places (even the spice - total buzz kill), I couldn't put it down...
Will definitely be picking up the third and final installment when it's released 🤌
June 19, 2026
Cal was actually one of my favorite characters in the first book, which is why this one left me feeling so conflicted about him. I understand why he did what he did, but that doesn't mean I agree with the way he went about it. Using Damiano and the people around him for his own agenda was difficult to overlook, especially considering everything they had already been through. Even so, I couldn't help but feel bad for him when the consequences finally caught up to him. Watching him malfunction like a broken toy was honestly heartbreaking. No matter how frustrated I was with his actions, seeing him reduced to that state made it hard not to sympathize with him. Part of me thought he deserved to be held accountable, but another part of me just wanted the suffering to stop.
Damiano wasn't exactly innocent either. While he had every right to be angry, it felt like he pushed the punishment to the point where it almost completely broke Cal and drained all the life out of him. At the same time, I also felt bad for Damiano because everyone kept guilt-tripping him for his reaction when, honestly, he had every reason to be furious. That's what makes this whole situation so frustrating. I can understand both sides, but neither of them seems capable of having the honest conversation that could have prevented most of this mess in the first place.
I also wanted to point out that this book has no filler chapters. What I noticed most in duology or connected trilogies is that there are usually a lot of unnecessary scenes just to fill the length of each book in the series, but not in this one. Every scene feels relevant to the story. It has a great balance of plot, mystery, and romance, and the pacing is really, really good for a series. As for the ending, I genuinely thought this book would answer all the remaining questions, but instead it left me with even more. I wouldn’t have had a problem with it if it had been marketed from the start as a trilogy, because then I would’ve expected that not everything would be resolved yet. I might have even just put it on my TBR and waited until the whole series was finished before reading it. But instead, it came as a surprise that there’s another book, and I’m just left hanging with all these questions that I’ll probably forget by the time the next book is released. Great.
Damiano wasn't exactly innocent either. While he had every right to be angry, it felt like he pushed the punishment to the point where it almost completely broke Cal and drained all the life out of him. At the same time, I also felt bad for Damiano because everyone kept guilt-tripping him for his reaction when, honestly, he had every reason to be furious. That's what makes this whole situation so frustrating. I can understand both sides, but neither of them seems capable of having the honest conversation that could have prevented most of this mess in the first place.
I also wanted to point out that this book has no filler chapters. What I noticed most in duology or connected trilogies is that there are usually a lot of unnecessary scenes just to fill the length of each book in the series, but not in this one. Every scene feels relevant to the story. It has a great balance of plot, mystery, and romance, and the pacing is really, really good for a series. As for the ending, I genuinely thought this book would answer all the remaining questions, but instead it left me with even more. I wouldn’t have had a problem with it if it had been marketed from the start as a trilogy, because then I would’ve expected that not everything would be resolved yet. I might have even just put it on my TBR and waited until the whole series was finished before reading it. But instead, it came as a surprise that there’s another book, and I’m just left hanging with all these questions that I’ll probably forget by the time the next book is released. Great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2026
my poor heart can’t take this anymoreeee, i can’t believe i have to wail till October but trust i WILL be counting down the days.
their dynamic? perfection. a real enemies to lovers adjacent. i can’t wait for the final piece in their trilogy.
“He looks up at me. Those eyes. The ones that watched me from a prison, from a bed, from across a kitchen table. “I know,” he says”
Their history and the hot tangled mess of their destinies and their responsibilities and everything is too much and yet so beautifully written.
“I go. Because I always go. Wherever Caligula Clemenza leads, I follow. I don’t know when it started, but that’s just how it is now.”
What the hell am i going to do with myself now that im no longer reading this. think beauty and the beast if the both beauty and the beast belonged to different mafia clans.
their dynamic? perfection. a real enemies to lovers adjacent. i can’t wait for the final piece in their trilogy.
“He looks up at me. Those eyes. The ones that watched me from a prison, from a bed, from across a kitchen table. “I know,” he says”
Their history and the hot tangled mess of their destinies and their responsibilities and everything is too much and yet so beautifully written.
“I go. Because I always go. Wherever Caligula Clemenza leads, I follow. I don’t know when it started, but that’s just how it is now.”
What the hell am i going to do with myself now that im no longer reading this. think beauty and the beast if the both beauty and the beast belonged to different mafia clans.
June 4, 2026
I’m at a loss of what to say.
It’s rare you get a real enemies to lovers story. Captive Prince is the gold standard. Comparatively this one comes close but in that way in which I can give you a chocolate chip cookie from a store bought package… or I can give you one made by your grandmother exactly how you like it. The recipes are different but the end product is the same by name. And even though they taste different you can recognize they are the same thing.
Leighton Greene really upped her writing game in this one. I ate this up so fast. And now I have to wait till October for the last installment.
Some things:
🏳️🌈 ends on a major cliffhanger
🏳️🌈 vengeance in the name of the father vs. restoration of a family name
🏳️🌈 The only one who gets to hurt you is me
🏳️🌈 the lows are gut wrenching
🏳️🌈 do anything to survive vibes
🏳️🌈 forced proximity
🏳️🌈 while it can be read as a standalone I wouldn’t recommend it. Major players in book 2 are introduced from her first series and understanding the essence who they are really helps you see the big picture of what is happening here.
🏳️🌈 Caligula isn’t Laurent, obvi. But he has that same princely composure and snake like intellect and frightening ability to charm or frighten anyone.
🏳️🌈 Dami isn’t Damen, but his brute force and knack for saving Caligula from death from others hands isn’t so similar to TCP Trilogy.
🏳️🌈 strict T/B roles
🏳️🌈 I felt the characters inner dialog important and not excessive, to show how they grapple with complex captor/captive dynamics and dependence on each other for survival in a kill or be killed world.
It’s rare you get a real enemies to lovers story. Captive Prince is the gold standard. Comparatively this one comes close but in that way in which I can give you a chocolate chip cookie from a store bought package… or I can give you one made by your grandmother exactly how you like it. The recipes are different but the end product is the same by name. And even though they taste different you can recognize they are the same thing.
Leighton Greene really upped her writing game in this one. I ate this up so fast. And now I have to wait till October for the last installment.
Some things:
🏳️🌈 ends on a major cliffhanger
🏳️🌈 vengeance in the name of the father vs. restoration of a family name
🏳️🌈 The only one who gets to hurt you is me
🏳️🌈 the lows are gut wrenching
🏳️🌈 do anything to survive vibes
🏳️🌈 forced proximity
🏳️🌈 while it can be read as a standalone I wouldn’t recommend it. Major players in book 2 are introduced from her first series and understanding the essence who they are really helps you see the big picture of what is happening here.
🏳️🌈 Caligula isn’t Laurent, obvi. But he has that same princely composure and snake like intellect and frightening ability to charm or frighten anyone.
🏳️🌈 Dami isn’t Damen, but his brute force and knack for saving Caligula from death from others hands isn’t so similar to TCP Trilogy.
🏳️🌈 strict T/B roles
🏳️🌈 I felt the characters inner dialog important and not excessive, to show how they grapple with complex captor/captive dynamics and dependence on each other for survival in a kill or be killed world.
May 30, 2026
Damiano will finally end Caligula. After he suddenly ran away and Dam got him back, he’s more determined than ever. He can’t trust Cal.
After that, he’ll probably die himself soon, he’s okay with that, he's tired of life.
Well, it isn’t so far, yet, he’ll have to wait. Sneaky Cal found a way to stay alive a bit longer.
Others want Caligula dead also. Damiano is still protecting Cal.
There are more mafia families involved. Read it yourself!
What a harsh read this was, the hate (and heat) was intense. I kept wondering what would happen next. Both men are unpredictable af!
There aren’t any soft moments, it’s rough, raw, primal, and full of vicious times.
And oh boy there’s a wild cliffhanger! Why am I doing this to myself 😭
It was a great read! Can’t wait to read book 3!
After that, he’ll probably die himself soon, he’s okay with that, he's tired of life.
Well, it isn’t so far, yet, he’ll have to wait. Sneaky Cal found a way to stay alive a bit longer.
Others want Caligula dead also. Damiano is still protecting Cal.
There are more mafia families involved. Read it yourself!
What a harsh read this was, the hate (and heat) was intense. I kept wondering what would happen next. Both men are unpredictable af!
There aren’t any soft moments, it’s rough, raw, primal, and full of vicious times.
And oh boy there’s a wild cliffhanger! Why am I doing this to myself 😭
It was a great read! Can’t wait to read book 3!
June 21, 2026
3.5 ⭐️’s
This was fun! I loved the dynamic between Damiano and Caligula (what an odd name). The found family is amazing in this book. The cliffhanger is insaneee omg i need the next book already! My only gripe is that the politics with the mob families were really confusing me at points. It was a lot to keep up with all the different side characters and all of the history between the rival families. Besides that this was a nice fun read.
This was fun! I loved the dynamic between Damiano and Caligula (what an odd name). The found family is amazing in this book. The cliffhanger is insaneee omg i need the next book already! My only gripe is that the politics with the mob families were really confusing me at points. It was a lot to keep up with all the different side characters and all of the history between the rival families. Besides that this was a nice fun read.
June 7, 2026
4.5
It was soooo heartbreaking to see Cal loose his spark💔💔💔💔…but I m glad that it made Dami realize the extent of his actions. Also, it was satisfying to see his spark come back and him being the Don!
GOD I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!! ILLEGAL CLIFFHANGER 🥲🥲🥲I CAN’T WAIT UNIT OCTOBER😭😭😭😭
It was soooo heartbreaking to see Cal loose his spark💔💔💔💔…but I m glad that it made Dami realize the extent of his actions. Also, it was satisfying to see his spark come back and him being the Don!
GOD I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!! ILLEGAL CLIFFHANGER 🥲🥲🥲I CAN’T WAIT UNIT OCTOBER😭😭😭😭
May 31, 2026
THE EXTREMELY RARE ONE-DAY READ
NO NOTES NO NOTES NO NOTES
I NEED BOOK 3 😫 THIS IS MY FAVORITE COUPLE FROM THIS AUTHOR
NO NOTES NO NOTES NO NOTES
I NEED BOOK 3 😫 THIS IS MY FAVORITE COUPLE FROM THIS AUTHOR
July 27, 2026
omggg when is the next book coming out man
Currently Reading
May 29, 2026I already forgot what the first book was about
June 9, 2026
Chefs kiss book. 👨🏻🍳
June 2, 2026
The cliffhanger!!
Why did I think this was a duet and not a trilogy?!?! I can't wait for the conclusion 😌 that ending was just brutal, both Damiano and Cal are in mortal danger and freaking Sammy just left Cal there.. 😡 just as I was feeling sorry for him.. I just hope Rosa is ok..
Damiano and Cal and their hate/love relationship is giving me whiplash honestly. I'd wish they just get it together!!
I need more though, I want them to find their happy ending 😩😭
Why did I think this was a duet and not a trilogy?!?! I can't wait for the conclusion 😌 that ending was just brutal, both Damiano and Cal are in mortal danger and freaking Sammy just left Cal there.. 😡 just as I was feeling sorry for him.. I just hope Rosa is ok..
Damiano and Cal and their hate/love relationship is giving me whiplash honestly. I'd wish they just get it together!!
I need more though, I want them to find their happy ending 😩😭
August 1, 2026
It took me FOREVER to read this book. I actually abandoned it and then came back to it because I'd already invested so much time so I figured what the heck. First of all, this book is entirely too long. When I start skimming the sex because I don't even care anymore, you know I'm in trouble. Caligula and Dami were so interesting in book 1; the sexual tension was palpable. We understood Dami's anger, and Caligula's fear; there were mob tactics and strategy. A+!
Now, at the end of Book 2, I've had all I can take and I will not be reading Book 3. They're exhausting! Especially Cal. The back and forth of him being some kind of Don one minute, and Dami's bottom boy the next is, I guess, supposed to be sexy and show his conflict, but to me it's annoying. This attempt to paint Cal as some kind of Don is eyeroll worthy. Every time he starts ordering Dami around I want to punch him in the throat. Like, who the HELL are you talking to like that? "Come see me when you're done." *Fights air* I was ready to abandon ship until Dami relocated his gonads and got himself together. I get the whole survival thing, but Cal pendulum swinging between dictator and 'sniveling boy who needs protection' was working my last nerve. Dami deferring to him on important decisions is ridiculous and this ragtag of stragglers that Cal keeps referring to as 'my people' is laughable.
There were good parts. Dami admiring how Cal's mind works, and admiring his ability to blend in with mob royalty was intriguing. Fighting his attraction to him, letting him have his way with some things - all cool. But the author did too much to try to make Cal believable as any kind of 'mob boss' who orders Dami around. And I can already tell Book 3 is going to give me acid reflux. Pass.
Now, at the end of Book 2, I've had all I can take and I will not be reading Book 3. They're exhausting! Especially Cal. The back and forth of him being some kind of Don one minute, and Dami's bottom boy the next is, I guess, supposed to be sexy and show his conflict, but to me it's annoying. This attempt to paint Cal as some kind of Don is eyeroll worthy. Every time he starts ordering Dami around I want to punch him in the throat. Like, who the HELL are you talking to like that? "Come see me when you're done." *Fights air* I was ready to abandon ship until Dami relocated his gonads and got himself together. I get the whole survival thing, but Cal pendulum swinging between dictator and 'sniveling boy who needs protection' was working my last nerve. Dami deferring to him on important decisions is ridiculous and this ragtag of stragglers that Cal keeps referring to as 'my people' is laughable.
There were good parts. Dami admiring how Cal's mind works, and admiring his ability to blend in with mob royalty was intriguing. Fighting his attraction to him, letting him have his way with some things - all cool. But the author did too much to try to make Cal believable as any kind of 'mob boss' who orders Dami around. And I can already tell Book 3 is going to give me acid reflux. Pass.
August 1, 2026
I've only just started, but I hope Caligula improves because right now he's pushing MY buttons & I won't blame Damiano for whatever he does to him!
Threatening Rosa, Vito & Sammy is ALL kinds of fuckery & treating Damiano like a servant in his OWN house?! This boy clearly didn't understand what the mob's husband warned him about! He's a dumbass & he's asking for it!
Sorry, but the author is losing me... Damiano fucking the dick who is threatening his staff is not doing it for me... basically, it's simply become about lust, which even in the first one was moderated as Damiano neither came nor penetrated the little pissant until their relationship progressed into friendlier terms!
So, as the fool wants to play power games, it would've made more sense for Damiano to play his trump card rather than "I can't help myself, I need to get my dick wet..." honestly, I truly can't express how much this choice that the author has made is NOT wirking for me & has actually spoiled my enjoyment of the book!
Because what we were told & shown in the previous book was that Damiano was/is NOT a good man, but he's loyal to a fault & frankly I just can't see a truly loyal person ENTHUSIASTICALLY fucking someone they KNOW is threatening those they love & care about... that's a boner killer! Full stop!
I could've forgiven the pissant using the threat when he thought he was about to be killed, but the fact that he keeps using it & Damiano is not only going along with it, but STILL fucking him?!
NOPE! I mostly enjoyed the first book, but this is starting to smell like a DNF for me! I know the author is trying to sell that they're so in lust (which should NEVER be confused with love) with each other, but we ALL have our hard-limits & to a TRULY loyal person, threatening those you care about, would be THE hard-limit!
So, for the sake of adding some (unsatisfactory IMO as I'm now hate-listening & SKIPPING said...) smutty scenes, the author has completely killed their own characterisation of their own MC IMHO 🤷♀️
Frankly, I expected better from Damiano than him playing to that little pissant's tune!
I may well be wrong, but I think the author is trying to set the stage for the pissant to be a Don & this is why I prefer fantasy... because when you base it on some basis of reality, you NEED to make it make sense!
The Mafia/gangsters world is chock-full of Toxic masculinity... it's inescapable & the reason why that world is still thriving today! Boys want to be seen as "men"!
It's all about machismo & showing strength even when you're outnumbered (also basic street rules... NEVER let them see you when you're down!) ! So, the fact that he fell so far from grace that he had to auction himself off as a sex slave for $10M automatically removes him from the race as it's public knowledge!
He'd NEVER be able to win anyone's respect after that, because that also "ousted" him as a bottom & believe you me, as far as machismo is concerned, it's not that bad as long as you're not in the receiving end... so, no!
He would NEVER be able to be a Don, as you DO need respect in those kind of circles & prostituting yourself is NOT readily accepted & does NOT earn you respect of any kind of respect 🤷♀️
So... this really mind end up in my DNF pile. It all kinda depends on whether or not Damiano gets his balls back... if I were him, I WOULD send all my people away & then ask that pissant... what do you have now?!?
I liked the dynamic of the first book, where Damiano was a (mostly reasonable) dick & Cal didn't act the victim, but balanced Damiano out... as he was mostly sweet, forthright, strong minded, resilient, courageous & I'm ALL for him getting his own back, but NOT at the expense of the people who have helped you... Rosa especially!
But TBPH, he's lying in the bed he himself made. He CHOSE to sell himself to cruel, abusive mobsters & said mobsters could do whatever they wanted to him, including battering him, but without any lasting disfigurement! He KNEW this & still chose to sign a contract for money that he KNEW he wouldn't have access to for a year... so, again... bed of his own making!
I genuinely would've preferred if he'd stayed with his grandads murderers & tried to find his 'loyalists" that way!
Also... HOW loyal ARE this people when surely by now they've heard WHERE he is, but haven't made themselves known to him.. 🤔
Threatening Rosa, Vito & Sammy is ALL kinds of fuckery & treating Damiano like a servant in his OWN house?! This boy clearly didn't understand what the mob's husband warned him about! He's a dumbass & he's asking for it!
Sorry, but the author is losing me... Damiano fucking the dick who is threatening his staff is not doing it for me... basically, it's simply become about lust, which even in the first one was moderated as Damiano neither came nor penetrated the little pissant until their relationship progressed into friendlier terms!
So, as the fool wants to play power games, it would've made more sense for Damiano to play his trump card rather than "I can't help myself, I need to get my dick wet..." honestly, I truly can't express how much this choice that the author has made is NOT wirking for me & has actually spoiled my enjoyment of the book!
Because what we were told & shown in the previous book was that Damiano was/is NOT a good man, but he's loyal to a fault & frankly I just can't see a truly loyal person ENTHUSIASTICALLY fucking someone they KNOW is threatening those they love & care about... that's a boner killer! Full stop!
I could've forgiven the pissant using the threat when he thought he was about to be killed, but the fact that he keeps using it & Damiano is not only going along with it, but STILL fucking him?!
NOPE! I mostly enjoyed the first book, but this is starting to smell like a DNF for me! I know the author is trying to sell that they're so in lust (which should NEVER be confused with love) with each other, but we ALL have our hard-limits & to a TRULY loyal person, threatening those you care about, would be THE hard-limit!
So, for the sake of adding some (unsatisfactory IMO as I'm now hate-listening & SKIPPING said...) smutty scenes, the author has completely killed their own characterisation of their own MC IMHO 🤷♀️
Frankly, I expected better from Damiano than him playing to that little pissant's tune!
I may well be wrong, but I think the author is trying to set the stage for the pissant to be a Don & this is why I prefer fantasy... because when you base it on some basis of reality, you NEED to make it make sense!
The Mafia/gangsters world is chock-full of Toxic masculinity... it's inescapable & the reason why that world is still thriving today! Boys want to be seen as "men"!
It's all about machismo & showing strength even when you're outnumbered (also basic street rules... NEVER let them see you when you're down!) ! So, the fact that he fell so far from grace that he had to auction himself off as a sex slave for $10M automatically removes him from the race as it's public knowledge!
He'd NEVER be able to win anyone's respect after that, because that also "ousted" him as a bottom & believe you me, as far as machismo is concerned, it's not that bad as long as you're not in the receiving end... so, no!
He would NEVER be able to be a Don, as you DO need respect in those kind of circles & prostituting yourself is NOT readily accepted & does NOT earn you respect of any kind of respect 🤷♀️
So... this really mind end up in my DNF pile. It all kinda depends on whether or not Damiano gets his balls back... if I were him, I WOULD send all my people away & then ask that pissant... what do you have now?!?
I liked the dynamic of the first book, where Damiano was a (mostly reasonable) dick & Cal didn't act the victim, but balanced Damiano out... as he was mostly sweet, forthright, strong minded, resilient, courageous & I'm ALL for him getting his own back, but NOT at the expense of the people who have helped you... Rosa especially!
But TBPH, he's lying in the bed he himself made. He CHOSE to sell himself to cruel, abusive mobsters & said mobsters could do whatever they wanted to him, including battering him, but without any lasting disfigurement! He KNEW this & still chose to sign a contract for money that he KNEW he wouldn't have access to for a year... so, again... bed of his own making!
I genuinely would've preferred if he'd stayed with his grandads murderers & tried to find his 'loyalists" that way!
Also... HOW loyal ARE this people when surely by now they've heard WHERE he is, but haven't made themselves known to him.. 🤔
July 20, 2026
It's going to be a painful wait until the third and final book is released! 'The Beast Who Broke Me' by Leighton Greene was an incredibly engaging (yet sometimes frustrating) story. This is the second book in the 'Clemenza Family' series, and if you have not already listened to 'The Beast Who Bought Me', you need to listen to that book prior to this one as the books in this series are not standalone books and absolutely must be read in order. I listened to the first book shortly before the release of this one (and it was a whirlwind of suspense) so having to wait several months for the third book is going to be a little painful as the storyline is very good, and the cliffhangers at the end of this one are deliciously fraught. For those unaware, this series is a spin-off of Leighton's 'Morelli Family' series, and there are spoilers in this series for those books, so I actually recommend listening to that entire series first. Major characters and events from that series are discussed in this series, so while I think this series could be enjoyed without knowledge of that one, this series does contain spoilers for the previous series. I also think that not being familiar with the characters and events from the 'Morelli Family' series would lessen the enjoyment and understanding of certain events, revelations, and encounters in the 'Clemenza Family' series. This second book picks up right where the first book left off. I love the two main characters, Caligula "Cal" Clemenza and Damiano "Dami" Orsini, although each are flawed in their own ways. I particularly find many of Dami's motivations and inner dialogues to be especially frustrating, as he is not a stupid man at all, yet his stubbornness and obsessions are almost crippling. Denial is a very strong roadblock, with often disastrous results. So many mistakes have been made which made me sigh and scream at my cellphone multiple times over these first two books. Keeping Sammy completely in the dark was a huge mistake (made by both main characters, actually) that may have disastrous consequences...but I don't want to get into too many specifics and spoilers in this review. The overall storyline, of course, broadly resembles 'Beauty and the Beast', but with an extreme kink/revenge/BDSM twist complete with The Stockholm Syndrome fully present in even the original story. These first two books were incredibly enjoyable, especially after having listened to the entire 'Morelli Family' series just a few months ago. It's hard to rate a single book from this series as it is one continuous story (and I don't yet know how it ends) so I am rating it 4 stars for now (although the entire series could end up being a 5 star rating for me depending on how everything comes together and ultimately plays out) due to questionable choices and actions made by some of the characters. Along with the two main characters, I also question the actions, or inaction, of the Luca and Finch D'Amato. They appear to be completely clueless and ineffectual in this series, and from the 'Morelli Family' series, we know that is not the case. Why do they seem to have no idea what is going on? It seems incredulous that they haven't yet figured out who is killing the Clemenza heirs, nor were they able to find Cal prior to the auction, yet Dami had tabs on him this whole time. We know that Luca is a better 'Capo dei capi' than this, so what gives?
I of course cannot review an audiobook without mentioning the narration. Michael Ferraiuolo is truly great. 5 stars! He is a master at doing different voices that sound authentic, and are distinct from each other. I know that using dual narrators in romance books is a popular trend, but I much prefer a single narrator who is adept at doing multiple voices (so you don't end up with everyone having two voices, one from each narrator).
I of course cannot review an audiobook without mentioning the narration. Michael Ferraiuolo is truly great. 5 stars! He is a master at doing different voices that sound authentic, and are distinct from each other. I know that using dual narrators in romance books is a popular trend, but I much prefer a single narrator who is adept at doing multiple voices (so you don't end up with everyone having two voices, one from each narrator).
May 31, 2026
I cannot believe the 2nd book ended the way it did. I knew it would end in cliffhanger but OH, THE CLIFFHANGER. How am I supposed to live the next few months not knowing what happens next? This is torture and I’m planning on suing for emotional damage.
Nobody, and I will repeat this, nobody has done Mafia for me like Leighton Greene has. The plot, the suspense, the so well developed characters, and I’m talking all of them, nobody important is generic. From their names, to their personal background, to the way they do things. I finished the book in one day because I could not put it down, the story flows so seamlessly and you get so invested right from the start.
This the 2nd book of a trilogy so skipping the first book is not an option. Where do I even begin? First, I loved seeing the Morellis. I did not expect them to be the culprits when I finished the first book, and I’m glad because I was so afraid Cal was going to get hurt. And yes, he does get hurt, a lot, by Damiano, so brace yourself because the emotional rollercoaster is long. The book is fast paced and there are no unimportant filler scenes.
The mix of cruelty and tenderness between Cal and Dami makes them explosive. They are cruel to each other because they each have a goal, but there is also so much yearning, they are falling hard and do not want to acknowledge it. I’m very happy to see that by the end of this book, their relationship is more forgiving, but not without still holding each other accountable for the messed up things they did, I’m glad that they are starting to choose each other, in the way that Cal is also trying to protect Rosa, Sammy and Vito, the way that Dami is choosing Cal over the Giulianos and revenge.
Who is after the Clemenzas? I still do not know and this point, I really can’t think of anyone. I was convinced it was Tiberius until I met him. Am I missing something? Somebody please tell me.
Could Luca have the Clemenza ring?
What was the real relationship between Cesario and Vincente? Am I the only one who is thinking that they were more than “best friends”? Nonna’s letter just raised more questions, too.
I’m really hoping that Seb Conti is ok, for the sake of my heart, please let him live. He was so loyal and so sweet, even though he appeared so little, I really liked him, it really is a shame that he is not Boss.
Is Sammy really going to leave Cal behind? My heart will shatter in a million peaces if he does.
Who is going to save Cal and Dami?
This trilogy has on a chokehold, I know there is HEA because the author already said so but can my heart take whatever is going to happen in between? I really hope Big Gee and Daniel King each get what they deserve. I need time to fly so I can have the third book on my hands already.
Nobody, and I will repeat this, nobody has done Mafia for me like Leighton Greene has. The plot, the suspense, the so well developed characters, and I’m talking all of them, nobody important is generic. From their names, to their personal background, to the way they do things. I finished the book in one day because I could not put it down, the story flows so seamlessly and you get so invested right from the start.
This the 2nd book of a trilogy so skipping the first book is not an option. Where do I even begin? First, I loved seeing the Morellis. I did not expect them to be the culprits when I finished the first book, and I’m glad because I was so afraid Cal was going to get hurt. And yes, he does get hurt, a lot, by Damiano, so brace yourself because the emotional rollercoaster is long. The book is fast paced and there are no unimportant filler scenes.
The mix of cruelty and tenderness between Cal and Dami makes them explosive. They are cruel to each other because they each have a goal, but there is also so much yearning, they are falling hard and do not want to acknowledge it. I’m very happy to see that by the end of this book, their relationship is more forgiving, but not without still holding each other accountable for the messed up things they did, I’m glad that they are starting to choose each other, in the way that Cal is also trying to protect Rosa, Sammy and Vito, the way that Dami is choosing Cal over the Giulianos and revenge.
Who is after the Clemenzas? I still do not know and this point, I really can’t think of anyone. I was convinced it was Tiberius until I met him. Am I missing something? Somebody please tell me.
Could Luca have the Clemenza ring?
What was the real relationship between Cesario and Vincente? Am I the only one who is thinking that they were more than “best friends”? Nonna’s letter just raised more questions, too.
I’m really hoping that Seb Conti is ok, for the sake of my heart, please let him live. He was so loyal and so sweet, even though he appeared so little, I really liked him, it really is a shame that he is not Boss.
Is Sammy really going to leave Cal behind? My heart will shatter in a million peaces if he does.
Who is going to save Cal and Dami?
This trilogy has on a chokehold, I know there is HEA because the author already said so but can my heart take whatever is going to happen in between? I really hope Big Gee and Daniel King each get what they deserve. I need time to fly so I can have the third book on my hands already.
June 1, 2026
He’s not a prince. I don’t know why I ever called him that. He’s always been a king. - Damiano
Excuse my language but. Son. Of. A . Bxtch!! These cliffhangers are killing me!! Leighton, Leighton, Leighton.. why do you do this to us? I know we were to expect a cliffhanger, but this one was like two ticking time bombs at once and no morally grey antihero alpha male in sight! I mean, what can we actually expect, considering the first book ended with a cliffhanger as well?
The Beast Who Broke Me is the 2nd book of The Clemenza series, and if you haven't read this 1st book, stop reading this and go do so! Get that assignment done! Now, last time we left off, Caligula left the protection of Damiano's house, feeling like he got played. Only to be kidnapped by who freaking knows? Fortunately, we find out soon in the beginning of this book. But Dami doesn't see it as a kidnapping. He just knows Cal left his home and he is PO'd!!
I really thought they were falling in love in the first book, but now, there's nothing but hate, distrust and.. the breaking of a man. Only for that man to rise above the ashes like the Phoenix. Hopefully, Caligula will survive whatever the other New York families have for him, as some are still vying to end his Family. Plus they're super homophobic. Except for one Family. The D'amato's, and no one goes against Luca and his husband Finch D'amato!
He wants Cal protected and who better to do so than the one who's been obsessed with him for over a decade? Yet, Dami still has his own Family business to deal with, and Big Gee of the Gulianos are not Team D'amato or Team Clemenza. Damiano is back in his head focused on his hate for Cal, knowing he was being used by him. Cal can't help continue to try to manipulate and distrusts Dami. There is one thing they do share though. You know what they say, there's a thin line between love and hate. For these two, on the surface though, it's lust not love.
I was really in my feelings reading this book because I want them to finally admit to each other how they really feel. They can't even admit it to themselves but actions tend to speak louder than words! And I know it's a dark romance, so everything is meant to be tragic but I'm grateful this series is a trilogy because I don't know if my heart could take it anymore. Leighton knew what she was doing! That's why I'm such a fan of hers!
Just wanted to thank her for providing me an advanced reading copy in reciprocity of my honest review, and I hope it helps you, me fellow reader, get caught up in your feelings too, because I can't be the only one. Now, let us patiently wait until the last book, The Beast Who Begged Me, to be released. Fingers crossed there's a HEA, cuz the title leaves me wanting.
Excuse my language but. Son. Of. A . Bxtch!! These cliffhangers are killing me!! Leighton, Leighton, Leighton.. why do you do this to us? I know we were to expect a cliffhanger, but this one was like two ticking time bombs at once and no morally grey antihero alpha male in sight! I mean, what can we actually expect, considering the first book ended with a cliffhanger as well?
The Beast Who Broke Me is the 2nd book of The Clemenza series, and if you haven't read this 1st book, stop reading this and go do so! Get that assignment done! Now, last time we left off, Caligula left the protection of Damiano's house, feeling like he got played. Only to be kidnapped by who freaking knows? Fortunately, we find out soon in the beginning of this book. But Dami doesn't see it as a kidnapping. He just knows Cal left his home and he is PO'd!!
I really thought they were falling in love in the first book, but now, there's nothing but hate, distrust and.. the breaking of a man. Only for that man to rise above the ashes like the Phoenix. Hopefully, Caligula will survive whatever the other New York families have for him, as some are still vying to end his Family. Plus they're super homophobic. Except for one Family. The D'amato's, and no one goes against Luca and his husband Finch D'amato!
He wants Cal protected and who better to do so than the one who's been obsessed with him for over a decade? Yet, Dami still has his own Family business to deal with, and Big Gee of the Gulianos are not Team D'amato or Team Clemenza. Damiano is back in his head focused on his hate for Cal, knowing he was being used by him. Cal can't help continue to try to manipulate and distrusts Dami. There is one thing they do share though. You know what they say, there's a thin line between love and hate. For these two, on the surface though, it's lust not love.
I was really in my feelings reading this book because I want them to finally admit to each other how they really feel. They can't even admit it to themselves but actions tend to speak louder than words! And I know it's a dark romance, so everything is meant to be tragic but I'm grateful this series is a trilogy because I don't know if my heart could take it anymore. Leighton knew what she was doing! That's why I'm such a fan of hers!
Just wanted to thank her for providing me an advanced reading copy in reciprocity of my honest review, and I hope it helps you, me fellow reader, get caught up in your feelings too, because I can't be the only one. Now, let us patiently wait until the last book, The Beast Who Begged Me, to be released. Fingers crossed there's a HEA, cuz the title leaves me wanting.
June 1, 2026
The Beast Who Broke Me takes everything that made the first book addictive, the obsession, the power struggles, the toxicity, the tension and cranks it up another level.
Damiano and Caligula continue to be one of the most chaotic, destructive couples I've ever rooted for. Neither man is remotely predictable, and every interaction feels like it could end in murder, betrayal, or something far more complicated. Damiano is determined to destroy Caligula, yet somehow remains the one constantly protecting him. Meanwhile, Caligula refuses to stay down, always finding another move to make when it seems like he's finally out of options.
The relationship is not soft, sweet, or healthy, and that's exactly the point. This is a dark romance built on obsession, control, manipulation, and a dangerous dependence neither man can escape. The line between hatred and desire is practically nonexistent, creating an intense push-and-pull dynamic that kept me completely hooked.
Beyond the romance, the expanding mafia conflict adds another layer of tension. New players enter the game, alliances shift, and the sense that danger is closing in from every direction keeps the pace relentless. Every chapter left me wondering what disaster was coming next.
This book is brutal, raw, and emotionally exhausting in the best way. There are very few moments of peace, but that's what makes the story so compelling. Damiano and Caligula are constantly at war with each other, themselves, and everyone around them.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel. The cliffhanger left me staring at the page in disbelief and immediately needing book three. If you loved the first instalment and enjoy dark, toxic antiheroes whose relationship is equal parts obsession and destruction, this sequel delivers everything you could want and then some. Highly recommend
I received a free arc and this is my honest review
Damiano and Caligula continue to be one of the most chaotic, destructive couples I've ever rooted for. Neither man is remotely predictable, and every interaction feels like it could end in murder, betrayal, or something far more complicated. Damiano is determined to destroy Caligula, yet somehow remains the one constantly protecting him. Meanwhile, Caligula refuses to stay down, always finding another move to make when it seems like he's finally out of options.
The relationship is not soft, sweet, or healthy, and that's exactly the point. This is a dark romance built on obsession, control, manipulation, and a dangerous dependence neither man can escape. The line between hatred and desire is practically nonexistent, creating an intense push-and-pull dynamic that kept me completely hooked.
Beyond the romance, the expanding mafia conflict adds another layer of tension. New players enter the game, alliances shift, and the sense that danger is closing in from every direction keeps the pace relentless. Every chapter left me wondering what disaster was coming next.
This book is brutal, raw, and emotionally exhausting in the best way. There are very few moments of peace, but that's what makes the story so compelling. Damiano and Caligula are constantly at war with each other, themselves, and everyone around them.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel. The cliffhanger left me staring at the page in disbelief and immediately needing book three. If you loved the first instalment and enjoy dark, toxic antiheroes whose relationship is equal parts obsession and destruction, this sequel delivers everything you could want and then some. Highly recommend
I received a free arc and this is my honest review
July 12, 2026
Audiobook Review: The Beast Who Broke Me
Title: The Beast Who Broke Me (Clemenza Family Book 2)
Author: Leighton Greene
Narrator: Michael Ferraiuolo
Rating: 5/5 stars
Thank you to Leighton Greene for providing me a copy of this audiobook in return for an honest review.
Following straight on from the cliff-hanger ending of book 1 (The Beast who Bought Me) and the little bit of trust that had been built on both sides is now shattered. Caligula Clemenza and Damiano Orsini are forced by circumstance to return to their original arrangement but this time Cal has an ace up his sleeve to prevent Damiano from taking out his planned revenge, or so he hopes.
Michael Ferraiuolo was, as always, the perfect accompaniment to Leighton Greene’s mafia world.
What I liked:
Firstly, that double trouble cliff-hanger broke me! The anticipation that was building in my stomach while listening to the final chapters was painful. I’m not sure how I’m going to handle not knowing its resolution until book 3 is released! But aside from that, this 2nd book of the Clemenza family ticked so many boxes for me, including some dark twisty x-rated scenes I didn’t know I needed! There was a good deal of personal growth for both MC’s, and the rebuilding of their fragile bond was fraught but rewarding. The increase in mafia politics from the previous book was welcome, though also nerve-racking as I had no idea who could be trusted.
Final thoughts: Another twisting journey of emotions ending in a double whammy of a cliff-hanger!
Who would enjoy this:
Fans of dark contemporary romance with morally grey characters. Heads up, this book has a cliffhanger ending, but the author has said all books will be out this year.
Note; this is a very dark romance for adult readers. Content guidance can be found at:
https://leightongreene.com/the-beast-...
Title: The Beast Who Broke Me (Clemenza Family Book 2)
Author: Leighton Greene
Narrator: Michael Ferraiuolo
Rating: 5/5 stars
Thank you to Leighton Greene for providing me a copy of this audiobook in return for an honest review.
Following straight on from the cliff-hanger ending of book 1 (The Beast who Bought Me) and the little bit of trust that had been built on both sides is now shattered. Caligula Clemenza and Damiano Orsini are forced by circumstance to return to their original arrangement but this time Cal has an ace up his sleeve to prevent Damiano from taking out his planned revenge, or so he hopes.
Michael Ferraiuolo was, as always, the perfect accompaniment to Leighton Greene’s mafia world.
What I liked:
Firstly, that double trouble cliff-hanger broke me! The anticipation that was building in my stomach while listening to the final chapters was painful. I’m not sure how I’m going to handle not knowing its resolution until book 3 is released! But aside from that, this 2nd book of the Clemenza family ticked so many boxes for me, including some dark twisty x-rated scenes I didn’t know I needed! There was a good deal of personal growth for both MC’s, and the rebuilding of their fragile bond was fraught but rewarding. The increase in mafia politics from the previous book was welcome, though also nerve-racking as I had no idea who could be trusted.
Final thoughts: Another twisting journey of emotions ending in a double whammy of a cliff-hanger!
Who would enjoy this:
Fans of dark contemporary romance with morally grey characters. Heads up, this book has a cliffhanger ending, but the author has said all books will be out this year.
Note; this is a very dark romance for adult readers. Content guidance can be found at:
https://leightongreene.com/the-beast-...
July 15, 2026
'What I got was Strike and a handful of aging men who met once a month in a bar. But I also got something I haven't expected. I got a man who knelt for me.' - Caligula as Narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo
I've written a review for the ebook, The Beast Who Broke Me, and you can find it at any of these sites to get more of my specific thoughts of the story:
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2M159C...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/23713...
However, this is a review based on the advanced listeners copy appreciatively provided to me by the author herself, Leighton Greene, in reciprocity for my honest review. I cannot thank her enough! With that said, I also have to thank Michael Ferraiuolo and his talent because.. ok, how can one man voice like 20+ or so different Italian NYC Mafiosos of all ages, sexual identities, affiliations, loyalists and rats? But that's what Michael did! His narration is a mainstay in most of Leighton's audiobooks, and with good reason.
I added the quote above to point out that there were aging people in the book, characters he'd eventually voice and I was like, ok they may sound similar because they come from the same era, but they're also distinctively different! And also Team Clemenza! Because of course I'm rooting for the antihero of it all, it's his book series! Seriously, if you're a Leighton Greene fan "fan" like I am, who reads the book AND listens to the audiobook, you'd enjoy it two times over. It would be like reading/listening to it for the first time! And now *bites nails in suspense* we wait for Book 3 to see what happens to Damiano and Caligula!
Story: 5⭐
Narration:5⭐
I've written a review for the ebook, The Beast Who Broke Me, and you can find it at any of these sites to get more of my specific thoughts of the story:
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2M159C...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/23713...
However, this is a review based on the advanced listeners copy appreciatively provided to me by the author herself, Leighton Greene, in reciprocity for my honest review. I cannot thank her enough! With that said, I also have to thank Michael Ferraiuolo and his talent because.. ok, how can one man voice like 20+ or so different Italian NYC Mafiosos of all ages, sexual identities, affiliations, loyalists and rats? But that's what Michael did! His narration is a mainstay in most of Leighton's audiobooks, and with good reason.
I added the quote above to point out that there were aging people in the book, characters he'd eventually voice and I was like, ok they may sound similar because they come from the same era, but they're also distinctively different! And also Team Clemenza! Because of course I'm rooting for the antihero of it all, it's his book series! Seriously, if you're a Leighton Greene fan "fan" like I am, who reads the book AND listens to the audiobook, you'd enjoy it two times over. It would be like reading/listening to it for the first time! And now *bites nails in suspense* we wait for Book 3 to see what happens to Damiano and Caligula!
Story: 5⭐
Narration:5⭐
May 30, 2026
ARC Review
I was so excited for this second book, I had forgotten that Caligula had been captured once he snuck out of Damiano’s house but it all came back quickly. I was eager to see what Damiano would do to get Caligula back and what was in store for them. I was surprised at the chain of events that followed his capture with the other mob/mafia families but then also eager to see how long it would take for them to give in to their attraction despite their power struggles.
Damiano spent so long planning his vengeance that he can’t just drop it and Caligula can’t fully trust the man that spent his life hating him even if they burn together. Damiano being the Beast that he is really does break Caligula but maybe this is necessary for them both to realise a few truths and that people can change. Meanwhile, Caligula is still being hunted and they have to find Tiberus. I loved that they were both protective of Damiano’s little ‘family’ even if Caligula hinted otherwise to try to keep control of Damiano.
It was good to see Caligula easily slip into the man his grandfather would have wanted him to be and see the faithful fall so quickly into place under him (even if his motives are different) Caligula can’t hide the way he was brought up and exudes finesse and control at all times. As the book progresses they both become more invested in finding out who is trying to kill Caligula and discover new truths in the last part of the book. I still don’t know who it was with so many different mafia options and the Bratva. The ending left me holding my breath and I just don’t know how they will come out of this but I am so excited for the final instalment and to see them getting their HEA.
I was so excited for this second book, I had forgotten that Caligula had been captured once he snuck out of Damiano’s house but it all came back quickly. I was eager to see what Damiano would do to get Caligula back and what was in store for them. I was surprised at the chain of events that followed his capture with the other mob/mafia families but then also eager to see how long it would take for them to give in to their attraction despite their power struggles.
Damiano spent so long planning his vengeance that he can’t just drop it and Caligula can’t fully trust the man that spent his life hating him even if they burn together. Damiano being the Beast that he is really does break Caligula but maybe this is necessary for them both to realise a few truths and that people can change. Meanwhile, Caligula is still being hunted and they have to find Tiberus. I loved that they were both protective of Damiano’s little ‘family’ even if Caligula hinted otherwise to try to keep control of Damiano.
It was good to see Caligula easily slip into the man his grandfather would have wanted him to be and see the faithful fall so quickly into place under him (even if his motives are different) Caligula can’t hide the way he was brought up and exudes finesse and control at all times. As the book progresses they both become more invested in finding out who is trying to kill Caligula and discover new truths in the last part of the book. I still don’t know who it was with so many different mafia options and the Bratva. The ending left me holding my breath and I just don’t know how they will come out of this but I am so excited for the final instalment and to see them getting their HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
NOOOOO! IT CAN’T END THERE!!!
I wasn’t ready for that cliffhanger! I knew things wouldn’t get resolved in this book but I wasn’t prepared for how things went down in the last two chapters😭
I knew from last book’s end that things would shift between Cal and Damiano. It was a given that that huge misunderstanding was going to ruin whatever trust they had built but it hurt to see how deep the damage could be.
I hated seeing Caligula being treated like that by Damiano. He didn’t deserve it, especially after we find out the truth. Damiano’s actions really honored the title of the book😅 He broke Caligula in such a way that at one point I wanted to get inside the book and put some sense into him.
Sassy, snarky Caligula was my favorite thing about him and seeing him broken like that really hurt my heart. At least Damiano realized what he’d done and felt guilty.
One thing is for sure, Leighton leveled up on the spice! Holy smokes did these two heat up this book🥵 I loved the hate segss. I love that they supposedly hate each other but can’t keep their hands off one another.
Damiano couldn’t decide whether he wanted to unalive Caligula or make love to him. He can deny it all he wants, but he’s so in love him and that’s why he felt so betrayed by Caligula leaving. He fell in love with the man he’s supposed to hate and loves that he’s part of his little family.
"𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞. 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝."
I can’t wait for the next book. This series has me a chokehold and I’m just obsessed with it. I hope we don’t have to wait too long to find out what happens with these two because I need them to be happy already 🥺
I wasn’t ready for that cliffhanger! I knew things wouldn’t get resolved in this book but I wasn’t prepared for how things went down in the last two chapters😭
I knew from last book’s end that things would shift between Cal and Damiano. It was a given that that huge misunderstanding was going to ruin whatever trust they had built but it hurt to see how deep the damage could be.
I hated seeing Caligula being treated like that by Damiano. He didn’t deserve it, especially after we find out the truth. Damiano’s actions really honored the title of the book😅 He broke Caligula in such a way that at one point I wanted to get inside the book and put some sense into him.
Sassy, snarky Caligula was my favorite thing about him and seeing him broken like that really hurt my heart. At least Damiano realized what he’d done and felt guilty.
One thing is for sure, Leighton leveled up on the spice! Holy smokes did these two heat up this book🥵 I loved the hate segss. I love that they supposedly hate each other but can’t keep their hands off one another.
Damiano couldn’t decide whether he wanted to unalive Caligula or make love to him. He can deny it all he wants, but he’s so in love him and that’s why he felt so betrayed by Caligula leaving. He fell in love with the man he’s supposed to hate and loves that he’s part of his little family.
"𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞. 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝."
I can’t wait for the next book. This series has me a chokehold and I’m just obsessed with it. I hope we don’t have to wait too long to find out what happens with these two because I need them to be happy already 🥺
May 31, 2026
Cal’s whole family was wiped out in a war between Mafia families. Cal found it difficult to mourn his grandfather, Don Lou Clemenza, who was a cruel and violent man, but he missed his father terribly. And he was raised to expect a lifestyle that doesn’t exist without family wealth to back it. With the entire family gone, he is destitute and friendless until he comes up with the plan to auction himself off to the highest bidder. A year at the hands of a buyer wouldn’t be fun, but with a few million to soothe his bruised ego, he will be able to create a life for himself.
Dami’s hatred for the Clemenzas has known no bounds since his father was killed in his own home. The fact that Dami feels that he did not perform at his best at that time contributes to his anger. So when he finds out that the remaining Clemenza, always called the Golden Prince, is to be auctioned off, Dami’s dream is fulfilled. He will have revenge on the Clemenzas. He will break the Golden Prince.
And he does it.
He meant to.
He accomplishes it. Although breaking Cal seems to break Dami, too.
Then why does it feel so horribly hollow? Why do his faithful self-created family seem angry with him for doing it? And why does his crime family seem to think breaking the Clemenza isn’t enough? Why do they want what’s left of the Golden Prince turned over to the Bratva?
The whole situation begins to make you homesick for the relatively normal relationship of Finch and Luca Morelli (who, by the way, make a brief cameo appearance in this book)!
If Cal and Dami survive the latest cliffhanger, I hope they can repair each other’s brokenness and reach a Happy Ever After.
Dami’s hatred for the Clemenzas has known no bounds since his father was killed in his own home. The fact that Dami feels that he did not perform at his best at that time contributes to his anger. So when he finds out that the remaining Clemenza, always called the Golden Prince, is to be auctioned off, Dami’s dream is fulfilled. He will have revenge on the Clemenzas. He will break the Golden Prince.
And he does it.
He meant to.
He accomplishes it. Although breaking Cal seems to break Dami, too.
Then why does it feel so horribly hollow? Why do his faithful self-created family seem angry with him for doing it? And why does his crime family seem to think breaking the Clemenza isn’t enough? Why do they want what’s left of the Golden Prince turned over to the Bratva?
The whole situation begins to make you homesick for the relatively normal relationship of Finch and Luca Morelli (who, by the way, make a brief cameo appearance in this book)!
If Cal and Dami survive the latest cliffhanger, I hope they can repair each other’s brokenness and reach a Happy Ever After.
June 1, 2026
The Beast Who Broke Me is the second book in this dark and twisted series and picks up right where book one left off.
I'll be honest, this book for a good half of it made me really dislike both of these men. I understand that they went through a lot and were doing what they thought was best, but jeesh, these two need to work on themselves a bit. Both Cal and Dami were extremely selfish and conceited which is where my dislike started to stem from.. HOWEVER, at about the halfway point in this book we got to finally see Cal turn over a new leaf, or as Dami said, shed his skin. I liked finally being able to see a different side to Cal, one where he's still the boss he wants to be but stopped pretending to be like his cruel grandfather. Once he finally got out of his own way is when this story really took off for me.
I still have so many questions that have yet to be answered and this book left me with so many more, so all that to say I'm really looking forward to the next book. And even though Dami and Cal definitely aren't 'good guys', I think they are better than those trying to kill innocent people.
(Also, I really hope Sammy gets his own story some day, his character intrigues me! I wish he wasn't so cold to Cal but I also understand why he is..)
Anyways, this story was great and I can't wait to read the next continuation of this plotline!
I'll be honest, this book for a good half of it made me really dislike both of these men. I understand that they went through a lot and were doing what they thought was best, but jeesh, these two need to work on themselves a bit. Both Cal and Dami were extremely selfish and conceited which is where my dislike started to stem from.. HOWEVER, at about the halfway point in this book we got to finally see Cal turn over a new leaf, or as Dami said, shed his skin. I liked finally being able to see a different side to Cal, one where he's still the boss he wants to be but stopped pretending to be like his cruel grandfather. Once he finally got out of his own way is when this story really took off for me.
I still have so many questions that have yet to be answered and this book left me with so many more, so all that to say I'm really looking forward to the next book. And even though Dami and Cal definitely aren't 'good guys', I think they are better than those trying to kill innocent people.
(Also, I really hope Sammy gets his own story some day, his character intrigues me! I wish he wasn't so cold to Cal but I also understand why he is..)
Anyways, this story was great and I can't wait to read the next continuation of this plotline!
July 3, 2026
Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
📖 The second book was even better than the first! I loved seeing just how much strength, determination, and power Caligula Clemenza truly has. Watching him try to rebuild his family from absolutely nothing was so badass 👑🔥
That being said... Damiano was still an asshole for most of this book 😤 The way he treated Caligula at times was just way too much. Some scenes were incredibly hard to get through, and the sexual humiliation just isn't something I personally enjoy reading 🫣
🙅♀️ It actually reminded me of a lot of MF dark romances where the female main character is constantly being humiliated by the big, bad alpha guy. Because of that, parts of this book honestly felt more like a straight romance than an MM romance, which wasn't really my thing 🥀
Despite that, I still really enjoyed the story ✨ The second half was especially strong! We finally got a lot more background information, and I loved seeing all the pieces start to come together.
Damiano also had some great character development. Seeing him slowly become a better leader, a better person to his people, and especially a better partner for Caligula made the payoff worth it 🥰❤️🩹
Their chemistry really shines in the quieter, more emotional moments—not just the physical ones. Those scenes felt genuine and made me root for them even more 🥹
😱 AND THAT CLIFFHANGER?!?!?! 😭🤯😩💀 HOW ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO JUST STOP THERE?! I immediately need the next book!!! 📚🔥❤️🔥😫👏
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
📖 The second book was even better than the first! I loved seeing just how much strength, determination, and power Caligula Clemenza truly has. Watching him try to rebuild his family from absolutely nothing was so badass 👑🔥
That being said... Damiano was still an asshole for most of this book 😤 The way he treated Caligula at times was just way too much. Some scenes were incredibly hard to get through, and the sexual humiliation just isn't something I personally enjoy reading 🫣
🙅♀️ It actually reminded me of a lot of MF dark romances where the female main character is constantly being humiliated by the big, bad alpha guy. Because of that, parts of this book honestly felt more like a straight romance than an MM romance, which wasn't really my thing 🥀
Despite that, I still really enjoyed the story ✨ The second half was especially strong! We finally got a lot more background information, and I loved seeing all the pieces start to come together.
Damiano also had some great character development. Seeing him slowly become a better leader, a better person to his people, and especially a better partner for Caligula made the payoff worth it 🥰❤️🩹
Their chemistry really shines in the quieter, more emotional moments—not just the physical ones. Those scenes felt genuine and made me root for them even more 🥹
😱 AND THAT CLIFFHANGER?!?!?! 😭🤯😩💀 HOW ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO JUST STOP THERE?! I immediately need the next book!!! 📚🔥❤️🔥😫👏
May 30, 2026
The Beast Who Broke Me by Leighton Greene is book 2 in the Clemenza Family trilogy. I have been dying for this book since the cliffhanger in book 1. It took a few pages for me to remember exactly what happened at the end of book 1, but then I was locked in. I love Dami and Caligula so much. Both of them have their moments where they are acting unlikable in their desire for revenge or survival. However, I can understand the reasoning behind their actions. It doesn’t always make it easy to read, but I completely understand why they behave in certain ways. Of course, seeing Luca and Finch again is always refreshing. These two are such amazing characters. The author does such a great job of creating the dynamics of all of these mafia families trying to coexist in the same territory. It makes for a compelling story. Caligula and Dami don’t know who to trust and neither do we. I love it. But just as the two made a decision to trust each other, the second cliffhanger happens. I am so very excited to read the conclusion of their story. I wonder what will happen to the Clemenza Family. Will Cal be the Don? I don’t know but I am on the edge of my seat.
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
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