Tormented

The Fire #3

by Billie Lustig

Liam:

They call me the pragmatic one. The sensible one. But that doesn’t mean I’m not as lethal as my brother if you piss me off.

The Reyes family has managed to piss me off twice, and I’m ready to settle the score.

But one humid night in Havana changes the game. Or should I say, Imogen Payne does, with her perky attitude and smart mouth, she’s nothing like I expected.

Suddenly, the lines are blurred and nothing seems to go as planned.

I’ve been burned before with catastrophic consequences, and there is no way I’m going to let that happen again.

This time, I’m ready.

This time, no woman will distract me.

Not even a blonde with pretty blue eyes.

**This is book #1 in the second Fire Duet, comes with a trigger warning and ends with a cliffhanger.*

Genres: Dark, Mafia Romance

297 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 25, 2022

About the author

Billie Lustig is a Dutch girl who has always had a thing with words: either she couldn’t shut up, or she was writing an adventure stuck in her head. She’s pretty straight forward, can be a pain in the ass & is allergic to bullshit, but most of all, she’s a sucker for love. She is happily married to her own alpha male who taught her the truest thing about love: when it’s real, you can’t walk away.

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Reviews

[Ellie Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beta read. Review and rating to come closer to release date 😈

[Priscilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment they met, the spark was there on the dance floor in Havana. Love the way Imogen is a spitfire in her own way and how Liam walls starts to crumble the more they interact. The in between chapters of Liam's perspective from previous events from the previous books adds to the hurt and insecurities he had to go through. It is funny how everyone knew of their attraction and eventual relationship while they thought they were so slick. Liam and Imogen are perfect for each other.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

An expansion of a world readers have already grown to love, Lustig strikes a balance that offers a narrative that feels fresh while honoring the established lore of her previous duology. For fans of the series, returning to this landscape feels like stepping back into a storm—it’s intense, dark, and raw, maintaining the high-stakes tension that has become the author's trademark.

The most compelling aspect of this installment is the way it handles the transition of Liam Carrillo and Imogen Payne from the periphery to the center of the narrative. While there is a noticeable amount of overlap with the events of Callous and Combust, it doesn't feel like a simple retread of old ground. Instead these shared moments pull back the curtain on the internal lives of characters who previously served as the supporting cast for Callie and Kane. By shifting the spotlight onto Liam and Imogen, the author adds layers of complexity to their past actions, transforming what we thought we knew into something far more nuanced and tragic. It is less a repetition and more a revelation, providing the "why" behind the "what" that was established in the earlier works.

The chemistry between the pragmatic, broody Liam and the spitfire Imogen is palpable. They are beautifully flawed and deeply scarred, and seeing their "friends with benefits" arrangement evolve against the backdrop of the Reyes family conflict adds a layer of desperation to their romance. Liam’s internal battle with his past insecurities and his cynical nature makes his eventual vulnerability all the more earned. Similarly, Imogen’s "perky" exterior is revealed to be a shield for a much tougher, more resilient woman who isn't afraid to stand up to Liam's bravado. Their journey proves they were always meant for center stage, carrying the weight of the story with an urgency that makes it easy to forgive the moments of narrative crossover.

Final Verdict
Tormented successfully bridges the gap between the original Fire duet and this new chapter. While the overlap with Callie and Kane's timeline might feel familiar, the added depth and psychological insight into Liam and Imogen make it a rewarding experience. It is a high-octane addition to the series that knows exactly how to break a reader's heart and put it back together again. A must read for fans of the original duology.

[Alex Beisel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Torment & Torched (Duet Part 2)
By @billielustig 
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This duet was spicy, chaotic, and completely addictive.
Torment dives deeper into Liam and Imogen’s relationship while also giving us a refresher of how Callie originally came into the brother’s lives. The story picks up after the events of the first duet and carries us through everything that happens leading up to the explosive ending. One thing I loved was getting Liam’s POV of moments we’d already seen before — especially the yacht scenes and everything leading up to Havana. Seeing those moments from his perspective added so much more depth.

Imogen is such a standout FMC. She’s feisty, funny, and completely unapologetic about who she is. Her dynamic with Callie is one of my favorite parts of the series — they feel way more like sisters than cousins, and their conversations feel so real.
Liam has been obsessed with Imogen since the moment he saw her, and even while he’s still carrying the scars from Cristina setting him up in the past, his feelings for Imogen never waver. Their relationship is intense but also surprisingly loyal and steady. They love each other fully and never hold back, which made them so easy to root for.

Then Torched picks up right where things leave off… and the chaos continues. Cristina is still causing problems, manipulating everyone around her and trying to use Imogen as leverage. Just when you think things can’t get more complicated, more players enter the game and secrets start coming out.
Imogen really grows into herself in this book. Her confidence, her loyalty, and the way she stands her ground made some of the final moments incredibly satisfying. Watching her fully embrace who she is — and what she’s willing to do for the people she loves — was the perfect payoff.
By the end, everything finally comes together. Justice is served, the Carrillo brothers shift into a new chapter of life, and everyone gets the future they’ve been fighting for. A perfect wrap up for new beginnings.

Tropes:
• Mafia romance
• Love at first sight
• Obsessed MMC
• Found family
• Strong FMC
• Touch her and you die
• HEA

[Arcs & Edges · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment was quite the experience! It took some patience to fully dive in, but once the momentum shifted, I was completely gripped by the dark energy of the story.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Havana (and various other places), this story centers on Liam Carrillo. It's an intense mix of Mafia Romance and Suspense, featuring strong 'enemies-to-lovers' elements and a 'forced proximity' situation that keeps the tension high.

What I loved
- Characters: The interaction between Liam and Imogen eventually became the highlight for me. Imogen's bold attitude is a fantastic foil for Liam's calculated personality, creating a very engaging dynamic.
- Writing style: Billie Lustig has a way of making the narrative feel very immediate. The second half of the book, in particular, was incredibly focused and made the emotional stakes feel very real.
- Setting: The choice of Cuba as a starting location was refreshing; it brought a certain heat and atmosphere that perfectly complementated the dark nature of the plot.

Points for Consideration
- Pacing: The opening phase felt somewhat cluttered. It leaned heavily into the lives of Kane and Callie, which made it harder for me to connect with the actual leads of this book early on.
- Development: I would have appreciated a deeper look into the brother's criminal operations. A bit more detail on their 'business' side would have added some more weight to the mafia elements of the story.
- Subjectivity: While the initial focus on previous characters wasn't quite what I expected, readers who enjoy deep continuity within a series will likely appreciate those cameos.

Final Verdict & Recommendation
Overall, this is a strong and compelling read that really pays off in the second half. I'd definitely recommend it to fans of gritty romance who aren't afraid of a little 'angst'. I'm curious to see where the next book takes us!

Disclosure
Thank you to the author and Whimpsy Words PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Sammi Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tormented and Torched - The Carrillo Brothers Duet 2 by Billie Lustig

Book 3 - Tormented

"I'm at the point where I have feeling there's isn't anything I wouldn't do for you"

We pick up this series from the moment Imogen and Liam meet; from first sight the pair are drawn together, continuing through the story we have learnt form Callie and Kane (Duet 1) and on.

Liam Carillo, older brother and protector, has been hurt by love and built walls around himself. Imogen, blond, bouncy and fun is set to bulldozer her way through.

I enjoyed watching their relationship develop from friendship to "friends with benefits". There's lots of banter which I love.

As this is a continuation of the series, some of the flashback scenes feel a little long, but that might be because I've read the first dualogy recently. I would recommend reading the book sin order for the best experience.

Tropes
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Dark Romance
- Mafia Romance

Highlights
- Dual POV
- Banter is on point

Thoughts
- Felt a little slow paced at times

Overall rating: 4/5

#bookstagrammer #booktokrecs #fantasyreads #romantasy #enemiestolovers newreleases


Thanks to @whimsywordspr and @billielustig for the ARC opportunity

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three and part one in The Fire Duet and it is Liam and Imogen's story . Liam and Imogen connected right from the start and the chemistry between them gets stronger the more time that they spend together but Liam doesn't do relationships or commitments because of what he had been through making him hard, grumpy, ruthless, cynical, have trust issue's and always ready to react and fight in any situation but now they are all in a dangerous situation and need to be on there guard to make sure that they all stay alive. Wow this book takes you on a roller coaster ride along with danger, suspense, drama, action, hope and some difficult situations that have you on the edge of your seat while holding your breath wondering what would happen next and with the explosive cliff hanger ending it also have you needing the next book to see what the outcome would be for them all. The characters and storyline pulled you in right from the start and kept your attention throughout and it was a real page turner and so addictive and definitely worth reading.

[Amber Keehn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obviously if you read books 1 & 2 in the Fire Series, you had an inkling Imogen and Liam were getting together (at least in book 2) but their story sucked me in and kept me enthralled the whole way through! Liam, obviously the broody and mean one, redeems himself in this book in a big way (and he did start that process in book 2, obviously). The book starts intermixed with Combust (so spoilers ahead if you haven't read it) where the Carillo brothers have caught up with Callie and Imogen. This tells Gen and Liam's story of falling into a friends with benefits arrangement after they get through the situation with Callie's brother and leads through a lot of the action from Combust from from their perspective. They keep a lid on their "arrangement" for fear of angering their friends. The book ends on a cliff hanger but looks to end in Torched- so just a couple weeks to see them get their hopeful HEA!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was kindly sent Tormented & Torched to review as part of its relaunch. This is second Carillo Brothers duet, this time we get Liam and Imogen’s story.

Tormented (book one) takes places during the events of the first duet but from Liam’s perspective. The author does explain that some chapters will feel familiar. Due to this there didn’t feel like there was a lot of jeopardy…..I knew the outcome however it was fun seeing it from Liam and Imogen’s point of view.

I did enjoy seeing how their characters and relationship developed however for the most part I did not like Liam. His attitude towards women made me uncomfortable however by the end of the book it seemed like he is changing, learning and growing. I hope this continues as I like Imogen and think she deserves the absolute best.

This one isn’t quite as violent as the first duet but definitely check the triggers before reading. Whilst I didn’t enjoy this as much as Callie and Kane’s story I’m looking forward to getting started on Torched and see where this story goes next.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew, what a ride for this first of two parts of Liam and Imogen’s story. Okay, being honest here, I think this is better appreciated if you read the first two books in this series before this one. Now, you don’t have to but to see the progression of the relationship of Kane and Callie, you will not want to miss their story. Okay, now onto Liam and Imogen. Since the first two books I have been anxiously awaiting on Liam and Imogen’s story. I have read The Fire Series books 1 and 2 and the entire Wolfe series and knowing Billie, I have no illusion that things are going to go well for Liam and Imogen through a second book. Got your attention? I absolutely loved them in Tormented and think they are perfect for each other but their love will not come easy for them. I suspect and I hope that Billie puts them through the ringer because I love angst in stories.

I received a complimentary copy from the author through Booksprout.

[Romantasy Bookbird · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

I was super excited to read about the grumpy closed off Liam and chatty Imogen. This book feels more like book two but from these two characters point of view and how the relationship develops between them. Liam is as closed off as they come and after being burned isn’t willing to commit to more than releasing tension. Imogen is a chatty blonde who hasn’t figured out where she belongs in the world but knows the Liam is in it some way or another. As much as I enjoyed this couple the fact that it was essentially a repeat of book two it felt a bit lack luster. The spice was good and I enjoyed the insight into Liam and how he’s forced to face his no ties issues but the story on the whole not much actually happened that we didn’t already know about.
BUT that ending. I knew something like that was going to happen and it has left me on the edge for book four.
Enjoyable character development but plot was a bit flat

[Ember Lit Haven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tormented pulled me in immediately! I felt like I understood the characters right away, which made it easy to become invested in their stories. The author did a great job at creating a mystery type of vibe without being predictable.
The one thing I appreciated most was the Spanish representation. It is rare to find books that naturally incorporate Hispanic culture along with commonly used Spanish words and phrases. It added a layer of authenticity for me.
As for the pacing, it felt just right to me. I didn’t feel bored or confused. The brother was easily my favorite character but I can’t spoil why!
*I would like to note that I did not read the earlier books, Callous and Combust, yet I didn’t feel like I needed to. The author provided enough context to help the readers follow along comfortably.
Overall, I enjoyed this intro the the author, Billie Lustig. It was engaging, mysterious, and the character development was seamless.

[JenMcJ · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 48%. I am struggling so hard with this book. That the book starts with a scene centered on Christina threw me and turned me off of the book right from the start.

I have been looking forward to this duet since the end of book 2 but add the flashbacks to the events of book one that have nothing to do with Liam and Gen to the first scene and I'm just annoyed already. Liam has changed his personality completely upon meeting Gen and the way they already get along, I feel like I see a ridiculous schism coming between them because of Christina who I don't even want to spend any book time with, let alone see come between any of these people.

I have been forcing myself to try and finish this but I just want to move onto another book at this point. Maybe I'll revisit this when my TBR pile is empty (lol).

[Claire Carruthers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I have to say Book 3 and 4 of the Carrillo brothers duet were just as good as 1 and 2.
Tormented and Torched follow Liam Carrillo. In Tormented (book 3) the storyline runs adjacent to Book 1 and 2 in timeline but from Liams point of view and with some extra POV from his ex.
I really enjoyed that my whole view of Liam changed, the untouchable man isn't all who he seems, and when Imogen is in the picture he can see no one else.
The Carillo/ Reyes feud comes to a close in Torched and wow it is so so good!
The pacing of all 4 novels is perfect and the growing love you end up having for the two couples is testimount to how well the author writes them, their dialogue and there relationships. T & T are not as dark as Callous and Combust but are still really good mafia romances and keep you hooked.

[WhiskeyandReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Lustig, what have you done to me? I knew going in that this book ended on a cliffhanger but I did not expect it to leave me with a fast-beating heart and wide eyes. How dare you! Okay, that was a bit dramatic I admit. Liam and Imogen were a hit little couple to read about. That man and his dirty mouth left me slobbering like a fool. Imogen and her mouth made me laugh multi times with the things that came out of her mouth. I can only imagine how this duet ends but I know it will be worth reading. This is NOT a standalone the storyline continues from books one and two but this is a different couple.

[Kim Stady · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Fire Series. I have loved every one of them! This installment didn't let me down. It is mostly a retelling of the first two books, but from a different perspective. You also learn the back story of different comments made or things that happened in the first two books. But the final third of the book really is focused on Gen and Liam's story. It is so hot and exciting. It does end on a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next installment. You won't be sorry you read this book. It is amazing!!!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in this author’s Fire Series. This story revolves around Liam and the Imogen. You do t have to but I recommend reading the first 2 books first. It will give you more insight and I think a better read. This story gives you a past, present and future. At first, i was a bit annoyed, I didn’t think I would enjoy that. I like to read the story in the present but it did give you a whole perspective. This is a couple you want to root for. They have lots of chemistry and their banter was a pleasure to read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished the Tormented and Touched duet being released as a duet. It was the conclusion to the Carillo story from first 2 books. Love all the action with Liam and Imogen but keeping Kane and Callie front of the story too. We need Jeremy to find someone now. All the mafia action and sex kept me reading all day to finish it tonight. Love there is 50/50 blend of plot and sex. I do need Christina to ‘em I didn’t care for that part of book where it backtracked to their story. Overall a great mafia romance. I did receive this as an advanced readers copy and am voluntarily providing this review.

[Tasha_loves_to_read · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so good to be back in this world with these boys.
Kane and Callie - I love them.
But I feel that Liam and Imogen have taken their top spot.
The chemistry, angst, tension and banter is absolutely everything. I adore them.
Gen really wasn't bothered by his bravado and stood upto him. Even the nickname she had for him was funny. The love and care he shows towards Gen was special.
Once again another action packed and fast paced read.
That ending though. I'm shook. I need more. Like now 😂. And baby Reign 😍.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

[Ceri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had forgotten what it was like to be back in this wonderful world and I was very grateful to be there again. It's been a while since I read the first two in the series but as soon as I started, it all came rushing back to me.

I completely saw a different side to Liam in this book, which I loved! I wasn't sure about him in the others. Having this book in his voice was really eye opening and just changed my opinion of him. He is just 😘👌

I loved Imogen's character, she is truthful, emotional, funny and just an all round fabulous lady! I would love to read more from her.

The story does recap a lot of the previous ones so I wouldn't say you have to read them to get into this. Again like I said before, it was nice to see things from a different angle.

But be warned.... That ending 😳 Stunning and I can't wait to get back with the Carillo's again!! (Also just saying Franklin still manages to give me goosebumps 😍 If you haven't read the Boston Wolfes, you totally should!)

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tormented gives a different perceptive of the previous two books.
Liam is the dirty talking doesn’t do relationships type.
Imogen is sassy and feisty and I couldn’t help but love her.
I loved the connection that was between them and how it started.
Dirty dancing in Havana how hot is that!
What they have grows stronger and better with time.
Their physical attraction is sexy and spicy.
Tormented is action packed and filled with suspense.
And I wouldn’t except any different with. Billie Lustig book.
She never disappoints.

[siyaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED Tormented! Imogen and Liam's story was so fun to read about. Their story intrigued me from the beginning, starting from their first meeting, all the way to the ending. The book felt simultaneous to the events that occurred in Combust but I didn't find it to be repetitive; I quite enjoyed reading through Imogen and Liam's perspective. Imogen was so fun to read about; she is very different from Callie, but still possesses strong, sassy traits. I have to admit I was definitely a fan of Liam's grumpy demeanour in Callous & Combust, but seeing his walls fall apart with Imogen was so heartwarming to read. The cliffhanger was diabolical though, and I can't wait to continue reading the duet. Thank you Billie Lustig and Whimsy Words PR for providing me with a copy to review!

[Jemma Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished part one of the second duet in the Fire Series and it's just 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻

@billielustig knows how to write a damn good mafia romance I tell you! If you're a Rina Kent fan, Billie needs to be added to your list! 👀🔥

TORMENTED is basically telling the story from the last duet, but from Liam's perspective so obviously there's some added stuff in there too... I'm now onto TORCHED and cannot put it down!

TORMENTED gets a solid ⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me!

The Fire series has just had me O B S E S S E D 😅

Thank you again for giving me access to these to review @billielustig @whimsywordspr 🤍

If anyone needs me I'm currently on the yacht dying to see Cristina finally get what's coming to her 🙌🏻🤣

[Addy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars 💫
Thank you to the author and WhimsyWordsPR for this ARC! 🧡

After loving Callous & Combust, I was very excited to now be diving into Liam and Imogen's story! I'd been rooting for them for a while. The banter and the tension between them was phenomenal! With Tormented, it is mostly just a retelling of Combust from Liam and Imogen's POV. Because of that, I didn't quite enjoy this one as much, but I did enjoy getting to learn more about Liam and Imogen compared to what we knew previously. It did definitely pick up towards the end (the last 15% or so), and I enjoyed it! And THE END!! This was definitely yet another case of being glad that I immediately had access to the next book!

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars for Tormented : A Mafia Romance by Billie Lustig

Readers should review content warning. Also this book does end with a cliffhanger!

This is my first read by this author and I am now in stalker mode. Tormented has everything I look for in a great read ! Engaging storyline and plot with some twists but also great characters in Liam and Gen !

Can’t wait for Book 2 !.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kerry Garrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohhh damn this book is HOT!! My favourite aspect of this series is the chemistry between the characters.

I absolutely loved hearing Liam and Imogen’s perspective on the events that unfolded in the 3rd book Combust. My opinion of Liam’s behaviour has completely changed.

I was so happy reading this book, all set for a fairytale ending. And then Billie did what Billie does best, threw an absolute curve ball at the ending and had my mouth dropping to the floor!!

[Maria Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five 🌟Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The moment Liam and Imogen met on that dance floor in Havana they both were gone. The pull they felt was instant toward each other. Their banter,the simmering passion and attraction. This book made me feel all types of emotion! Grabbed my attention from the beginning! Though both were dealing with their own issues they came together! Absolutely loved this book! Received book as an ARC read and these are my honest views.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark, sexy and brutal book three in the Carillo Brothers series yanked me back into the world book two left me hanging in. This time while you get to see Kane’s pain over Callie being gone it mainly focuses on Liam who is arguably the more ruthless and dangerous brother. When he meets Imogen though the sparks are there right away and little by little she weaves her way in and without even realizing it Liam lets her. Their love story is brutal, yet honest and beautiful just like Kane and Callie’s story in the first two books can’t wait to dive into book four immediately.

[Smuttybooks_geekystuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billie's books always have me hooked from the start and this one was no different.

There's always a lot of layers to her storylines that make me not want to put the book down.

I haven't read the first duet in this series yet, but even with the knowledge from that, it makes a fantastic story.

I love the relationship between Liam and Imogen. They had an instant attraction to each other but due to the situation going on at the time couldn't take it any further at first.

Liam is this hardened crime lord to the outside world but underneath he's really a big softie.

With it being the first in a duet, it of course ends in a massive cliffhanger.
I can’t wait for Torched to find out what happens next ❤️

[Kristine L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story of Liam and Imogen. These two were great together. I loved reading about their side of the story and how it intertwined with the first two books. There is a cliffhanger at the end that leads into Torched. Looking forward to the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.