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Underworld Kings #21
City of Thieves
From USA Today bestselling authors Cora Kenborn and Catherine Wiltcher comes a new mafia romance standalone where love is the most dangerous crime of all.
This city tells a story of a man seeking vengeance…
Renzo Marchesi gives me two choices when he walks into my art gallery:
Help him find his brother’s killer or suffer the consequences.
He’s a mafia prince…
Heir to the Marchesi throne.
A man consumed by his demons.
Beautiful.
Ruthless.
I don’t belong in his world, and he doesn’t belong in mine.
Still, I’m not the spoiled politician’s daughter he thinks I am…
This is the City of Thieves, where lies are hard currency and deception is the real art.
Trust no one.
Love no one.
Too bad I don’t follow my own rules.
They say black arrows make for bleeding hearts.
Now, I’m planning the ultimate heist for a man who never misses.
City of Thieves is an enemies to lovers mafia romance with no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA. For mature readers only.
This city tells a story of a man seeking vengeance…
Renzo Marchesi gives me two choices when he walks into my art gallery:
Help him find his brother’s killer or suffer the consequences.
He’s a mafia prince…
Heir to the Marchesi throne.
A man consumed by his demons.
Beautiful.
Ruthless.
I don’t belong in his world, and he doesn’t belong in mine.
Still, I’m not the spoiled politician’s daughter he thinks I am…
This is the City of Thieves, where lies are hard currency and deception is the real art.
Trust no one.
Love no one.
Too bad I don’t follow my own rules.
They say black arrows make for bleeding hearts.
Now, I’m planning the ultimate heist for a man who never misses.
City of Thieves is an enemies to lovers mafia romance with no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA. For mature readers only.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2022
240 people are currently reading
2152 people want to read
About the author
Cora Kenborn
57 books2,079 followersCora Kenborn is a USA Today Bestselling and Top 50 Amazon Bestselling author whose readers have affectionately dubbed her the “queen of plot twists that’ll ruin your day in the best way.”
Best known for her dark mafia romances, Cora has an insatiable bad boy obsession, which she believes started in the third grade when she chose Bruce over Todd in the Sweet Valley High books. To this day, give her an unhinged antihero who falls hard for a feisty heroine, and you’ve won her heart.
As a native North Carolinian, Cora claims the domestic Southern Belle gene skipped right over her. Her villain origin story was the day she tried making her mother’s famous biscuits and gravy, only to turn them into paste-covered dough bricks. That’s when she decided fiction was better than reality, and microwaved mac and cheese counted as fine dining.
Stay up to date with Cora:
Newsletter: corakenborn.myflodesk.com/newsletter
Website: www.corakenborn.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2CPrPrx
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CoraFB
Facebook Reader Group: http://bit.ly/CoraTAA
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CKTikTok
Instagram: http://bit.ly/CoraInsta
BookBub: http://bit.ly/CoraBookBub
Best known for her dark mafia romances, Cora has an insatiable bad boy obsession, which she believes started in the third grade when she chose Bruce over Todd in the Sweet Valley High books. To this day, give her an unhinged antihero who falls hard for a feisty heroine, and you’ve won her heart.
As a native North Carolinian, Cora claims the domestic Southern Belle gene skipped right over her. Her villain origin story was the day she tried making her mother’s famous biscuits and gravy, only to turn them into paste-covered dough bricks. That’s when she decided fiction was better than reality, and microwaved mac and cheese counted as fine dining.
Stay up to date with Cora:
Newsletter: corakenborn.myflodesk.com/newsletter
Website: www.corakenborn.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2CPrPrx
Facebook: http://bit.ly/CoraFB
Facebook Reader Group: http://bit.ly/CoraTAA
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CKTikTok
Instagram: http://bit.ly/CoraInsta
BookBub: http://bit.ly/CoraBookBub
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
June 16, 2022
DNF @66%
I must have gotten a different book than everyone else, I swear.
It started off fairly strong, but quickly hit the skids. Tatiana's backstory was precarious and the overall plot was just weak. Add in some poorly done insta-love and zero chemistry between the main couple?
And I'm out.
Huge bummer considering I've enjoyed books from both of these authors before.
Oh well, moving on.
I must have gotten a different book than everyone else, I swear.
It started off fairly strong, but quickly hit the skids. Tatiana's backstory was precarious and the overall plot was just weak. Add in some poorly done insta-love and zero chemistry between the main couple?
And I'm out.
Huge bummer considering I've enjoyed books from both of these authors before.
Oh well, moving on.
November 29, 2021
What a wild ride into the world of mafia intrigue and art theft in this scintillating and addictive enemies to lovers story! From the first word to the last, City of Thieves consumed me. Crisp writing, a complex and expertly woven suspenseful storyline, and the explosive chemistry of two broken souls who somehow find themselves in each other. Not only is it chock full of the mafia goodness I’ve come to adore, but Cora and Catherine bring a fresh and exhilarating spin to the mafia trope. And I loved every minute of it!
Our story begins in gripping devastation, with our hero Renzo and our heroine Tatiana both in self-imposed exiles as the result of their personal pains. Emotional shutdown, lost, and desperate, their stories collide in the most unexpected of ways, as Renzo seeks his revenge for a heartbreaking loss. His quest to track down information brings him to gallery owner and art connoisseur Tatiana, but his coercion of her assistance soon turns into something far deeper, more complicated, and dangerous for them both.
Tatiana just broke my heart. From the very first sentence, Cora and Catherine shatter us with her pain and trauma. Pain that has transfigured not just her life, but her heart. Her facade is one of an icey and callous woman, but this is a facade for the broken and desperate young girl trapped inside. And that sparks something in the ruthless and dangerous Renzo- a man who has too been shattered, a man who is also hiding behind a carefully constructed visage. Their demons are complicated, the shadows deep, but their souls find a kindredness in one another, a likeness they can’t ignore. And soon their secrets rise to the surface, their fragility exposed. The cunning antihero becomes a hero and finds his redemption. And the broken ice queen finds her heartbeat again, freed by her restored power.
Both are such compelling characters, flawed and a bit tragic. But that is what makes their journey beautiful. Renzo is a delicious mafioso, but he’s gentle even in his brutality. And Tatiana is so compelling in her broken strength, in her vulnerability and fortitude. Their connection is mesmerizing- though a bit of instalove, but here it works. Their is a magnetic pull in the way they see parts of themselves in each other. Watching them find trust again- with the person they should trust least- was the best part of their story.
Paired with the dark but beautiful romance is a masterful mafia plot of betrayal, history, and secrets. SO much action, twists, turns, and so many unexpected villains. I loved how all the pieces came together, and how cleverly the past and present wove together. A storyline perfectly married and balanced with the unfolding romance- and it all keeps the pages turning.
This is an action-packed, steamy one-sit read that I thoroughly enjoyed- can’t wait to read more from this dynamic duo!
Our story begins in gripping devastation, with our hero Renzo and our heroine Tatiana both in self-imposed exiles as the result of their personal pains. Emotional shutdown, lost, and desperate, their stories collide in the most unexpected of ways, as Renzo seeks his revenge for a heartbreaking loss. His quest to track down information brings him to gallery owner and art connoisseur Tatiana, but his coercion of her assistance soon turns into something far deeper, more complicated, and dangerous for them both.
Tatiana just broke my heart. From the very first sentence, Cora and Catherine shatter us with her pain and trauma. Pain that has transfigured not just her life, but her heart. Her facade is one of an icey and callous woman, but this is a facade for the broken and desperate young girl trapped inside. And that sparks something in the ruthless and dangerous Renzo- a man who has too been shattered, a man who is also hiding behind a carefully constructed visage. Their demons are complicated, the shadows deep, but their souls find a kindredness in one another, a likeness they can’t ignore. And soon their secrets rise to the surface, their fragility exposed. The cunning antihero becomes a hero and finds his redemption. And the broken ice queen finds her heartbeat again, freed by her restored power.
Both are such compelling characters, flawed and a bit tragic. But that is what makes their journey beautiful. Renzo is a delicious mafioso, but he’s gentle even in his brutality. And Tatiana is so compelling in her broken strength, in her vulnerability and fortitude. Their connection is mesmerizing- though a bit of instalove, but here it works. Their is a magnetic pull in the way they see parts of themselves in each other. Watching them find trust again- with the person they should trust least- was the best part of their story.
Paired with the dark but beautiful romance is a masterful mafia plot of betrayal, history, and secrets. SO much action, twists, turns, and so many unexpected villains. I loved how all the pieces came together, and how cleverly the past and present wove together. A storyline perfectly married and balanced with the unfolding romance- and it all keeps the pages turning.
This is an action-packed, steamy one-sit read that I thoroughly enjoyed- can’t wait to read more from this dynamic duo!
November 30, 2021
*Thank you to Give Me Books PR & Social Butterfly PR AND the authors for an ARC of this title.*
As you can see, I wanted to read this book so much, I apparently asked for it from 2 different PR companies... So there is that.
Anyway! This was a wonderful entry to the Underworld Kings series. This time it was from an author duo that I have read before so I was familiar with their style and the raw emotions and chemistry that they bring to their characters.
City of Thieves is also a city full of secrets and lies. Betrayal and heartbreak. Our two characters have opposing aims and there are lives on the line when they collide.
Tatiana has lived as an Ice Queen for the last 5 years. Hiding a secret and a pain that is almost too much to bear. She puts her energies into her art gallery and does everything she can to stay above it all. She has pushed everyone away until... until Enzo Marchesi comes barging into her life making demands and not giving a damn that he could ruin everything.
When he commands her to assist him with getting his hands on a particular painting, Tatiana has no idea what will come of it. And neither one is prepared for the bright passion that burns between them.
This book was a thrill ride right from the beginning. There was twists, particularly one twist that I was just shocked by. It was well written and well paced. Still full of danger and thrills like every good mafia tale is. I had a great time with this one.
It turned out to be a great thing that I asked for it twice, because I wouldn't have wanted to miss this one.
4.5/5 stars
As you can see, I wanted to read this book so much, I apparently asked for it from 2 different PR companies... So there is that.
Anyway! This was a wonderful entry to the Underworld Kings series. This time it was from an author duo that I have read before so I was familiar with their style and the raw emotions and chemistry that they bring to their characters.
City of Thieves is also a city full of secrets and lies. Betrayal and heartbreak. Our two characters have opposing aims and there are lives on the line when they collide.
Tatiana has lived as an Ice Queen for the last 5 years. Hiding a secret and a pain that is almost too much to bear. She puts her energies into her art gallery and does everything she can to stay above it all. She has pushed everyone away until... until Enzo Marchesi comes barging into her life making demands and not giving a damn that he could ruin everything.
When he commands her to assist him with getting his hands on a particular painting, Tatiana has no idea what will come of it. And neither one is prepared for the bright passion that burns between them.
This book was a thrill ride right from the beginning. There was twists, particularly one twist that I was just shocked by. It was well written and well paced. Still full of danger and thrills like every good mafia tale is. I had a great time with this one.
It turned out to be a great thing that I asked for it twice, because I wouldn't have wanted to miss this one.
4.5/5 stars
December 17, 2021
3,5 🖤💖🤔🌟s
I was anticipating for this story so much!!!!!
Probably my expectations had reached a very high level, since my previous reads from these authors were great... 🤷🏻♀️
While the plot was very engaging, the flow wasn’t that smooth. I missed the development of Tatiana and Renzo’s attraction at the beginning, it was indistinguishable.
A few things needed a better ‘polish’. For example, Tatiana was beaten in her stomach and ribs and the day after she was as brand as new and nothing ever happened.
For those of us who have already been familiar with the Santiago world and read ‘Devils and Dust’ by C. Wiltcher, we very well know who Rick Sanders was and what he was capable of. As well as his feisty wife Nina.
So, his behaviour as was portrayed in this story towards his daughter was very out of his character. He would have moved heaven and earth to find out what was wrong with his daughter’s demeanour and disappearance from her family!
Regardless, I will definitely read any new story C. Wiltcher releases and always post my honest pov.
I was anticipating for this story so much!!!!!
Probably my expectations had reached a very high level, since my previous reads from these authors were great... 🤷🏻♀️
While the plot was very engaging, the flow wasn’t that smooth. I missed the development of Tatiana and Renzo’s attraction at the beginning, it was indistinguishable.
A few things needed a better ‘polish’. For example, Tatiana was beaten in her stomach and ribs and the day after she was as brand as new and nothing ever happened.
For those of us who have already been familiar with the Santiago world and read ‘Devils and Dust’ by C. Wiltcher, we very well know who Rick Sanders was and what he was capable of. As well as his feisty wife Nina.
So, his behaviour as was portrayed in this story towards his daughter was very out of his character. He would have moved heaven and earth to find out what was wrong with his daughter’s demeanour and disappearance from her family!
Regardless, I will definitely read any new story C. Wiltcher releases and always post my honest pov.
November 30, 2021
NOW LIVE! City Of Thieves is available now + FREE with Kindle Unlimited
“A wild ride into the world of mafia intrigue and art theft in this scintillating and addictive enemies to lovers story! From the first word to the last, City of Thieves consumed me. Crisp writing, a complex and expertly woven suspenseful storyline, and explosive chemistry” — The Romantic Rush Blog
US: https://amzn.to/3CxAhGN
UK: https://amzn.to/3ACJnQN
CA: https://amzn.to/3CD2uMj
AU: https://amzn.to/3xxyKN6
Universal: https://bit.ly/2XimuDP
Add to TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Free in Kindle Unlimited
City Of Thieves… where love is the most dangerous crime of all.
• Enemies to lovers
• Age gap
• Jealous/Possessive alpha
• Super hot scenes that push all the boundaries
• When the art world and the mafia collide.
“A wild ride into the world of mafia intrigue and art theft in this scintillating and addictive enemies to lovers story! From the first word to the last, City of Thieves consumed me. Crisp writing, a complex and expertly woven suspenseful storyline, and explosive chemistry” — The Romantic Rush Blog
US: https://amzn.to/3CxAhGN
UK: https://amzn.to/3ACJnQN
CA: https://amzn.to/3CD2uMj
AU: https://amzn.to/3xxyKN6
Universal: https://bit.ly/2XimuDP
Add to TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Free in Kindle Unlimited
City Of Thieves… where love is the most dangerous crime of all.
• Enemies to lovers
• Age gap
• Jealous/Possessive alpha
• Super hot scenes that push all the boundaries
• When the art world and the mafia collide.
November 28, 2021
Guard your heart and soul but I can guarantee you will be destroyed by Cora Kenborn and Catherine Wiltcher! They have planned a vicious, sinful and explosive attack in City of Thieves. What an unbelievable masterpiece of dark mafia romance! Thrilling and suspenseful and heartbreaking and steamy. This is some kind of otherworldly perfection and I can only scream at you to read the book while recovering from the heart attacks!
Renzo Marchesi, the younger son of New Jersey's mafia boss has only goal in his life now. To avenge the death of his brother Nero. And his quest brings him in path of Tatiana Sanders, daughter of Senator Rick Sanders who has close ties with Mexican Cartel and owner of the exclusive gallery called Elysium. Renzo planned to blackmail and use her to get close to the last lead he got but there are so many dangerous secrets in her life. She is a lost and broken soul fighting everyday and Renzo might be the man to help her.
.
I felt my heart was ready to explode so many times and I was *this* close to lose my mind. The entire storyline is mind freaking blowing. Secrets and twists and deceptions and lies and conspiracies pile up and I thought I will never find my way out but wow, what an execution. Renzo is another unforgettable antihero. Dark. Edgy. Controlling. Loyal. Ruthless. Protective. C0cky. Arrogant. The delicious combination of alpha hotness and dirty charisma. He has such a beautiful depth. He is a haunted man and the authors brought out his rabid guilt and anguish so beautifully. And Tatiana cracked his heart wide open, like she did mine. This author duo have written many memorable heroines but I dare say Tatiana is my new favourite. She has been destroyed over and over again. Her heart and body were taken through hell. She went through so much trauma and heartbreak and soul wrecking pain. But she did not give up. She is a survivor and a warrior. I am amazed by her fierceness and resilience. Renzo and Tatiana started as reluctant partners and then their enemies allied unexpectedly. They were two broken souls and they found the missing pieces in each other. They were thrown into utter chaos and we were taken all over the world in action packed chase.Renzo did his absolute best to protect his woman but Tatiana was no silent spectator. They worked as partners and through the drama and pain and adrenaline fuelled games, they bonded for forever. And may be that's why the sex was so hot and dirty and filthy because they went through life and death situations together.I was clutching my head and biting my nails so furiously because the authors vowed to make me as antsy and scared as possible. The puzzle pieces fit finally and I am so so blissfully happy!
.
I have said it a hundred times probably and I will keep on saying it till each and every romance reader knows it. Catherine Wiltcher and Cora Kenborn are the queens of dark mafia romance and if you have not read them, your life is incomplete.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Renzo Marchesi, the younger son of New Jersey's mafia boss has only goal in his life now. To avenge the death of his brother Nero. And his quest brings him in path of Tatiana Sanders, daughter of Senator Rick Sanders who has close ties with Mexican Cartel and owner of the exclusive gallery called Elysium. Renzo planned to blackmail and use her to get close to the last lead he got but there are so many dangerous secrets in her life. She is a lost and broken soul fighting everyday and Renzo might be the man to help her.
.
I felt my heart was ready to explode so many times and I was *this* close to lose my mind. The entire storyline is mind freaking blowing. Secrets and twists and deceptions and lies and conspiracies pile up and I thought I will never find my way out but wow, what an execution. Renzo is another unforgettable antihero. Dark. Edgy. Controlling. Loyal. Ruthless. Protective. C0cky. Arrogant. The delicious combination of alpha hotness and dirty charisma. He has such a beautiful depth. He is a haunted man and the authors brought out his rabid guilt and anguish so beautifully. And Tatiana cracked his heart wide open, like she did mine. This author duo have written many memorable heroines but I dare say Tatiana is my new favourite. She has been destroyed over and over again. Her heart and body were taken through hell. She went through so much trauma and heartbreak and soul wrecking pain. But she did not give up. She is a survivor and a warrior. I am amazed by her fierceness and resilience. Renzo and Tatiana started as reluctant partners and then their enemies allied unexpectedly. They were two broken souls and they found the missing pieces in each other. They were thrown into utter chaos and we were taken all over the world in action packed chase.Renzo did his absolute best to protect his woman but Tatiana was no silent spectator. They worked as partners and through the drama and pain and adrenaline fuelled games, they bonded for forever. And may be that's why the sex was so hot and dirty and filthy because they went through life and death situations together.I was clutching my head and biting my nails so furiously because the authors vowed to make me as antsy and scared as possible. The puzzle pieces fit finally and I am so so blissfully happy!
.
I have said it a hundred times probably and I will keep on saying it till each and every romance reader knows it. Catherine Wiltcher and Cora Kenborn are the queens of dark mafia romance and if you have not read them, your life is incomplete.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
November 28, 2021
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow where do I start!!!
Jealous possessive
Age gap
Dark
Mafia
Binge worthy
Renzo is on a path of revenge after his brother made one last promise before he was murdered. Now Renzo wants to find who killed his brother. Tatiana has endured 5 years of hell and being forced to not see her family while an evil Russian holds someone important over her head, forcing her to become an ice queen and leave behind everyone she loves.
Just so happens that Renzo and Tatiana make a stronger team.
I completely devoured this book as always Catherine and Cora created a masterpiece. I absolutely love Renzo so much he’s hot 🥵 and possessive. Tatiana is most definitely ricks daughter but takes after her strong momma.
Was super happy to see Rick in this book and get a look at seb I’d love him to have a book and to see killian get a book but then I never want this world Catherine and Cora have created to end. They write the best books!!
100% recommend and worth the read one of my fav books this year
Wow where do I start!!!
Jealous possessive
Age gap
Dark
Mafia
Binge worthy
Renzo is on a path of revenge after his brother made one last promise before he was murdered. Now Renzo wants to find who killed his brother. Tatiana has endured 5 years of hell and being forced to not see her family while an evil Russian holds someone important over her head, forcing her to become an ice queen and leave behind everyone she loves.
Just so happens that Renzo and Tatiana make a stronger team.
I completely devoured this book as always Catherine and Cora created a masterpiece. I absolutely love Renzo so much he’s hot 🥵 and possessive. Tatiana is most definitely ricks daughter but takes after her strong momma.
Was super happy to see Rick in this book and get a look at seb I’d love him to have a book and to see killian get a book but then I never want this world Catherine and Cora have created to end. They write the best books!!
100% recommend and worth the read one of my fav books this year
November 28, 2021
This story begins with Tatiana in the midst of the beginning of her nightmare with her eyes on her beloved painting.
Renzo’s story begins with the worse day of his life, the funeral of his brother, and this begins a downward spiral into the abyss of the Bratva, stolen art, and worlds colliding.
Cora and Catherine have written an compelling story of love and loss, revenge and hatred, but most importantly trusting in someone on faith alone.
Awesome story!
Renzo’s story begins with the worse day of his life, the funeral of his brother, and this begins a downward spiral into the abyss of the Bratva, stolen art, and worlds colliding.
Cora and Catherine have written an compelling story of love and loss, revenge and hatred, but most importantly trusting in someone on faith alone.
Awesome story!
February 27, 2022
Enemies-to-lovers, mafia, dark
This was good, but I would’ve liked there to be more buildup to their chemistry. I’m a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, and I wanted the angst that comes with it. This has angst, but for different reasons.
When the book opens up in the prologue, we know that Tatiana‘s (18) being abused. It’s not detailed, but it’s there. Years pass and it’s Renzo‘s brothers funeral. Renzo, who’s been doing some underground fighting, comes with his body battered and bruised, guilt eating at him. His brother went to collect the painting and was murdered for it. Renzo (33) wants to find the killer, and he knows exactly who’s going to help him do this, Tatiana.
Tatiana‘s (23 now) a painting connoisseur, who’s able to detect forgeries from originals with the blink of an eye. She harbors secrets that have unfortunately separated her from her parents and twin brother. She has the weight of the world resting on her shoulders, and all she wants to do is be happy, but there are things in her life that’re preventing her from achieving this. When Renzo appears and blackmails her to accompany him to London, she can’t even refuse. Although she comes from a privileged background, she’s not necessarily living a privileged life; she does have some connections to people in the mafia.
Besides finding his brother‘s killer, Renzo will become the next Underboss, but he has things he needs to take care of first. When Renzo and Tatiana get together, there’s definitely chemistry, but not as intense as I would have liked it to be.
Their first kiss takes place in a shower 🔥, when he was torturing her for information 😈 (I’m all for that) and then it just escalates in smexxiness 🥵. I would’ve liked there to be some stolen touches/glances, etc, that help build the tension before that, but I still enjoyed the scene 😜😉. The first full smexxy time is at about 70%, and oh-em-gee, the way he holds her down so she can’t move was 🥵😅🔥. Even the “baptizing” scene was 🔥.
Overall, I enjoyed it. I wish we had more happening in the HEA, like years into the future, but it is what it is.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-h gets beat up/r@p€d in prologue (not graphically). Later on in the book, she gets beat up. The H takes care of that man 💅😈
-violence/death/bloodshed
-edging/@nal play/spanking/breath play
-no c@nd@m. No type of anything’s used. It’s not even brought up. The H mentions he doesn’t want her to wash him out of her, but it’s not like he’s trying to get her pregnant 🤷🏻♀️. She’s only been with her r@p!st and the H’s smexx history isn’t revealed. Neither health histories are shared either. It’d be nice if we knew they were clean, especially considering he’s probably been to the club for smex before (it’s not stated but kind of implied). In one scene, when he appears at the club, the man he’s meeting asks him if he’s there to fight or for sex. He’s been fighting for a while, but he tells him “I’m not here to f***”. Maybe he never is and I’m reading too much into it 🤷🏻♀️.
This was good, but I would’ve liked there to be more buildup to their chemistry. I’m a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, and I wanted the angst that comes with it. This has angst, but for different reasons.
When the book opens up in the prologue, we know that Tatiana‘s (18) being abused. It’s not detailed, but it’s there. Years pass and it’s Renzo‘s brothers funeral. Renzo, who’s been doing some underground fighting, comes with his body battered and bruised, guilt eating at him. His brother went to collect the painting and was murdered for it. Renzo (33) wants to find the killer, and he knows exactly who’s going to help him do this, Tatiana.
Tatiana‘s (23 now) a painting connoisseur, who’s able to detect forgeries from originals with the blink of an eye. She harbors secrets that have unfortunately separated her from her parents and twin brother. She has the weight of the world resting on her shoulders, and all she wants to do is be happy, but there are things in her life that’re preventing her from achieving this. When Renzo appears and blackmails her to accompany him to London, she can’t even refuse. Although she comes from a privileged background, she’s not necessarily living a privileged life; she does have some connections to people in the mafia.
Besides finding his brother‘s killer, Renzo will become the next Underboss, but he has things he needs to take care of first. When Renzo and Tatiana get together, there’s definitely chemistry, but not as intense as I would have liked it to be.
Their first kiss takes place in a shower 🔥, when he was torturing her for information 😈 (I’m all for that) and then it just escalates in smexxiness 🥵. I would’ve liked there to be some stolen touches/glances, etc, that help build the tension before that, but I still enjoyed the scene 😜😉. The first full smexxy time is at about 70%, and oh-em-gee, the way he holds her down so she can’t move was 🥵😅🔥. Even the “baptizing” scene was 🔥.
Overall, I enjoyed it. I wish we had more happening in the HEA, like years into the future, but it is what it is.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-h gets beat up/r@p€d in prologue (not graphically). Later on in the book, she gets beat up. The H takes care of that man 💅😈
-violence/death/bloodshed
-edging/@nal play/spanking/breath play
-no c@nd@m. No type of anything’s used. It’s not even brought up. The H mentions he doesn’t want her to wash him out of her, but it’s not like he’s trying to get her pregnant 🤷🏻♀️. She’s only been with her r@p!st and the H’s smexx history isn’t revealed. Neither health histories are shared either. It’d be nice if we knew they were clean, especially considering he’s probably been to the club for smex before (it’s not stated but kind of implied). In one scene, when he appears at the club, the man he’s meeting asks him if he’s there to fight or for sex. He’s been fighting for a while, but he tells him “I’m not here to f***”. Maybe he never is and I’m reading too much into it 🤷🏻♀️.
November 30, 2021
This was my second arc of the month ( and ever really lol) so a very big thank you to Catherine for the arc!
I loved it!! ( Very unsurprisingly!)
Firstly, you definitely don't have to read any of Catherine's/ Cora's previous books to understand this & for it to be amazing as a standalone (but I think they're all amazing so I would recommend anyway!)
City of Thieves follows Tatiana who is an art dealer in New York. She's the 'ice queen' - she's cut all ties with her family in order to protect herself.
In walks Renzo Marchesi, a mafia prince who is out for revenge and enlists Tatiana in his plans.
They're thrown together in a world of deadly secrets.
This is a dark, enemies to lovers, mafia romance with so many twists and turns. (It ends on a HEA though so no worries!)
I loved this book so much and I really couldn't recommend it enough! I loved the witty banter between Tatiana and Renzo and it's fairly spicy! I thought it was so well paced so you don't get bored. ( I read this all in a day 😅)
My favourite quote from the book: "You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me."
(Also please check TW's because it's deffo dark!)
I loved it!! ( Very unsurprisingly!)
Firstly, you definitely don't have to read any of Catherine's/ Cora's previous books to understand this & for it to be amazing as a standalone (but I think they're all amazing so I would recommend anyway!)
City of Thieves follows Tatiana who is an art dealer in New York. She's the 'ice queen' - she's cut all ties with her family in order to protect herself.
In walks Renzo Marchesi, a mafia prince who is out for revenge and enlists Tatiana in his plans.
They're thrown together in a world of deadly secrets.
This is a dark, enemies to lovers, mafia romance with so many twists and turns. (It ends on a HEA though so no worries!)
I loved this book so much and I really couldn't recommend it enough! I loved the witty banter between Tatiana and Renzo and it's fairly spicy! I thought it was so well paced so you don't get bored. ( I read this all in a day 😅)
My favourite quote from the book: "You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me."
(Also please check TW's because it's deffo dark!)
November 29, 2021
"Once you control the temperature, even ice can melt."
I don´t even know from where to begin and where to end. This book just blew me away. Tatiana Sanders and Lorenzo Marchesi had a unique relationship. I never expected them to be like this. This committed. Their development was seriously one of the things I adored so so freakin much. Anastasia just gave it all life. I (Not gonna say who she is. Find out yourself.)
This book had its highs and lows but the good thing is it was all worth it. Because there isn´t a life without problems and they happened to be living through a rough point.
For the first time in my life, loyalty and revenge are running in two different but equally urgent paths.
I am horrible at writing reviews but I can say Tatiana is one of the strongest and badass-est woman I ever met. I am on my knees for her.
And as for Renzo, HOLY SHIT WHERE CAN I GET A MAN LIKE HIM?!
The way he handled the whole situation. Nobody does it like him.
This book sucked me in from the moment I read the blurb but then I read the prologue and that was it. I am ruined for every other book.
Secret are the only real currency between us.
I recommend this book to everyone who loves the mafia and wants to feel the real thrill. Although please consider the trigger warnings. :)
And at last my favorite quote from the book:
"We´ve been fighting our battles on our own for so long, dolcezza, but this time we´re fighting together. We´re stronger together."
I don´t even know from where to begin and where to end. This book just blew me away. Tatiana Sanders and Lorenzo Marchesi had a unique relationship. I never expected them to be like this. This committed. Their development was seriously one of the things I adored so so freakin much. Anastasia just gave it all life. I (Not gonna say who she is. Find out yourself.)
This book had its highs and lows but the good thing is it was all worth it. Because there isn´t a life without problems and they happened to be living through a rough point.
For the first time in my life, loyalty and revenge are running in two different but equally urgent paths.
I am horrible at writing reviews but I can say Tatiana is one of the strongest and badass-est woman I ever met. I am on my knees for her.
And as for Renzo, HOLY SHIT WHERE CAN I GET A MAN LIKE HIM?!
The way he handled the whole situation. Nobody does it like him.
This book sucked me in from the moment I read the blurb but then I read the prologue and that was it. I am ruined for every other book.
Secret are the only real currency between us.
I recommend this book to everyone who loves the mafia and wants to feel the real thrill. Although please consider the trigger warnings. :)
And at last my favorite quote from the book:
"We´ve been fighting our battles on our own for so long, dolcezza, but this time we´re fighting together. We´re stronger together."
November 27, 2021
What a thrilling and sexy ride City of Thieves was. Catherine Wiltcher and Cora Kenborn combine their stellar writing skills to bring readers a fast-paced mafia story with just the right touch of angst and romance. Renzo and Tatiana were two people thrown together in danger and intrigue, with an undeniable attraction that sizzled at every turn.
"I'm here for revenge. I'm here to use, destroy, and ruin, and that includes her and her precious paintings if need be."
I loved the way they characters were written, each with their own pain and demons that made it all the more intense when they started to break down each other's walls. Tatiana went through years of torment and was not prepared to find solace in someone like Renzo. The authors wrote their growing connection in such a believable way. Renzo's possessiveness of Tatiana was so great to see, as was they way they slowly softened towards each other. I enjoyed their interactions and their banter, and the way the tension between them gave way to some seriously hot scenes.
"You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me."
This book had it all- family drama, secrets and intrigue, mafia action, and scorching hot sexy times. The plot was addictive and the writing was excellent. I loved the way things wrapped up for this couple and I cannot wait for more from this author duo and the fantastic world that they have created.
"I'm here for revenge. I'm here to use, destroy, and ruin, and that includes her and her precious paintings if need be."
I loved the way they characters were written, each with their own pain and demons that made it all the more intense when they started to break down each other's walls. Tatiana went through years of torment and was not prepared to find solace in someone like Renzo. The authors wrote their growing connection in such a believable way. Renzo's possessiveness of Tatiana was so great to see, as was they way they slowly softened towards each other. I enjoyed their interactions and their banter, and the way the tension between them gave way to some seriously hot scenes.
"You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me."
This book had it all- family drama, secrets and intrigue, mafia action, and scorching hot sexy times. The plot was addictive and the writing was excellent. I loved the way things wrapped up for this couple and I cannot wait for more from this author duo and the fantastic world that they have created.
November 30, 2021
Well this dynamic co writing duo have knocked it out of the park and also made my top reads of '21 list AGAIN. Not that I'm surprised in the slightest. I have everything crossed that they continue to write many, many more books together.
As usual, I didn't want the book to end I was loving it so much.
If you've read all their other books, you'll be used to having your mind blown, if you're new to them, you've now been warned.
So much is packed into this book that I'm going to leave my review here as it should all be experienced first hand.
1000% recommend that you one click immediately. This book is not to be missed and is a perfect addition to this multi author world.
As usual, I didn't want the book to end I was loving it so much.
If you've read all their other books, you'll be used to having your mind blown, if you're new to them, you've now been warned.
So much is packed into this book that I'm going to leave my review here as it should all be experienced first hand.
1000% recommend that you one click immediately. This book is not to be missed and is a perfect addition to this multi author world.
November 28, 2021
Non-stop, heart-pounding ride through the underworld where the Mafia and the Bratva collide!
Cora and Catherine always do mafia romance right! The right amount of intrigue and darkness, secrets and lies, and an unforgiving alphahole and his feisty heroine.
Renzo and Tatiana are a force to be reckoned with. Both quickly realize that their personal agendas are intertwined which adds to this thrilling journey. They are so sexy together and can take over the world.
Cora and Catherine always do mafia romance right! The right amount of intrigue and darkness, secrets and lies, and an unforgiving alphahole and his feisty heroine.
Renzo and Tatiana are a force to be reckoned with. Both quickly realize that their personal agendas are intertwined which adds to this thrilling journey. They are so sexy together and can take over the world.
November 28, 2021
Unputdownable, Action and suspense filled ride ahead😍😍
This was oh so freaking thrilling as it constantly kept me on the edge of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen next.
We are taken on a wild roller-coaster ride of secrets, mysterious paintings, the Mafia, revenge and betrayals and hurts and finding something precious while being on a wild goose chase.. Whew!! Didn't I tell you this one is a wild ride.
Tatiana, that lady is called Ice empress but there's a reason why she has a cold exterior. When inside she has developed this mechanism to protect herself.
She's been robbed of everything and now has become a mere pawn and is completely under someone else's control. But her secrets are a painful reminder of what's at stake and even though she's exploited to do the bidding of a man who's very powerful, she hurts from everything she had to lose and has to stay away from her family.
Renzo wants revenge for his brother. He feels guilty that he wasn't there for him and there is something going on that's huge which might be tied directly to his brother's killing.
He begins the quest to uncover the tangle of secrets and his first clue comes in the form of a painting. To acquire it he needs an expert in the field and hence Tatiana and Renzo cross paths.
Tatiana has only one thing that she has in control, her gallery, her work but now it seems even that is slipping away from her but not unless she can gather the necessary resources.
So when Renzo offers her a tempting offer but not before butting heads with her, she has no alternative but to help him with the painting.
Oh my... There's just so much going on. Every delicious bite in the form of chapter reveals a juicy secret or a left field twist that left me wide-eyed.
Time is running out and there are eyes everywhere. Renzo will have to race against time and believe Tatiana and together untangle the web of Deceit and lies. But on the way to revenge and salvation, Renzo and Tatiana end up finding the biggest secret of them all.
Ahhhh.. What a freaking amazing roller-coaster ride this was. Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
This was oh so freaking thrilling as it constantly kept me on the edge of my seat, not knowing what was going to happen next.
We are taken on a wild roller-coaster ride of secrets, mysterious paintings, the Mafia, revenge and betrayals and hurts and finding something precious while being on a wild goose chase.. Whew!! Didn't I tell you this one is a wild ride.
Tatiana, that lady is called Ice empress but there's a reason why she has a cold exterior. When inside she has developed this mechanism to protect herself.
She's been robbed of everything and now has become a mere pawn and is completely under someone else's control. But her secrets are a painful reminder of what's at stake and even though she's exploited to do the bidding of a man who's very powerful, she hurts from everything she had to lose and has to stay away from her family.
Renzo wants revenge for his brother. He feels guilty that he wasn't there for him and there is something going on that's huge which might be tied directly to his brother's killing.
He begins the quest to uncover the tangle of secrets and his first clue comes in the form of a painting. To acquire it he needs an expert in the field and hence Tatiana and Renzo cross paths.
Tatiana has only one thing that she has in control, her gallery, her work but now it seems even that is slipping away from her but not unless she can gather the necessary resources.
So when Renzo offers her a tempting offer but not before butting heads with her, she has no alternative but to help him with the painting.
Oh my... There's just so much going on. Every delicious bite in the form of chapter reveals a juicy secret or a left field twist that left me wide-eyed.
Time is running out and there are eyes everywhere. Renzo will have to race against time and believe Tatiana and together untangle the web of Deceit and lies. But on the way to revenge and salvation, Renzo and Tatiana end up finding the biggest secret of them all.
Ahhhh.. What a freaking amazing roller-coaster ride this was. Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
November 29, 2021
✅Dark Romance
✅Mafia Romance
✅Revenge
✅Secret child
✅Blackmail
✅Alpha
✅HEA
My review:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat factor:🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Renzo is faced with the unthinkable, burying his older brother and heir to his fathers empire. Determined to discover the cause of his death, he sets out on a mission for truth and vengeance.
When an underground source recommends using Tatiana to gain access to the art world and hopefully the truth to his brothers death, neither could have predicted how twisted up in the truth they both are.
“The roots of our family trees are twisting together again. It’s blood and bone. It’s heartache and sacrifice.”
Tatiana is a deeply scarred young woman. Taken against her will as a teenager and then forced to sever communication to everyone she loves, she is a shell of a woman she once was. Dubbed the “ice queen” by her colleagues, no one could guess just how deep her hurt goes….until him.
From the first time Renzo and Tatiana meet, they are drawn to each other.
“Just then, Marchesi turns his head in my direction, meets my eye, and the full power of his storm hits me. The air sizzles with something intense and undefinable. The rolling thunder in those brutal dark eyes threatens to shake something loose inside me.”
“FIRE AND ICE. Contradictions that don’t belong in the same sentence, let alone the same room, yet somehow embody Tatiana Sanders.”
As these two are thrown together in a chase for the truth, their wickedly pointed banter will have you cracking up as they hold nothing back while slinging insults at each other.
“You’re a mouthy bitch, but I’m guessing you knew that already.” “In my experience, men only call a woman a ‘bitch’ when they sense that the balance of power isn’t going their way.”
But, the truth is multilayered in this story. His truth. Her truth. Their families truths. They are apart of a much bigger web than each counted on and when Renzo learns the real truth to Tatiana’s past, he is determined to get revenge for both of them and something so precious that was taken from Tatiana long ago.
The way these two come together is just….intense. The way they speak to each and learn to trust each other….❤️❤️❤️❤️
“You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me.”
“I think of Renzo, then. I think of how he saw through all the layers of my varnish and found the dying woman underneath.”
“Even though I warned her I wasn’t her savior, only a sinner who’d crawl back from hell for her... And then crawl straight back.”
“I’m done fighting alone. So, stand in the rain with me, dolcezza… Close your eyes and tip your head back. Hold on tight and see what happens.”
What an epic love story. Fabulous job Cora and Catherine!
✅Mafia Romance
✅Revenge
✅Secret child
✅Blackmail
✅Alpha
✅HEA
My review:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat factor:🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Renzo is faced with the unthinkable, burying his older brother and heir to his fathers empire. Determined to discover the cause of his death, he sets out on a mission for truth and vengeance.
When an underground source recommends using Tatiana to gain access to the art world and hopefully the truth to his brothers death, neither could have predicted how twisted up in the truth they both are.
“The roots of our family trees are twisting together again. It’s blood and bone. It’s heartache and sacrifice.”
Tatiana is a deeply scarred young woman. Taken against her will as a teenager and then forced to sever communication to everyone she loves, she is a shell of a woman she once was. Dubbed the “ice queen” by her colleagues, no one could guess just how deep her hurt goes….until him.
From the first time Renzo and Tatiana meet, they are drawn to each other.
“Just then, Marchesi turns his head in my direction, meets my eye, and the full power of his storm hits me. The air sizzles with something intense and undefinable. The rolling thunder in those brutal dark eyes threatens to shake something loose inside me.”
“FIRE AND ICE. Contradictions that don’t belong in the same sentence, let alone the same room, yet somehow embody Tatiana Sanders.”
As these two are thrown together in a chase for the truth, their wickedly pointed banter will have you cracking up as they hold nothing back while slinging insults at each other.
“You’re a mouthy bitch, but I’m guessing you knew that already.” “In my experience, men only call a woman a ‘bitch’ when they sense that the balance of power isn’t going their way.”
But, the truth is multilayered in this story. His truth. Her truth. Their families truths. They are apart of a much bigger web than each counted on and when Renzo learns the real truth to Tatiana’s past, he is determined to get revenge for both of them and something so precious that was taken from Tatiana long ago.
The way these two come together is just….intense. The way they speak to each and learn to trust each other….❤️❤️❤️❤️
“You were made for me, Tatiana. Every damaged part of you fits every damaged part of me.”
“I think of Renzo, then. I think of how he saw through all the layers of my varnish and found the dying woman underneath.”
“Even though I warned her I wasn’t her savior, only a sinner who’d crawl back from hell for her... And then crawl straight back.”
“I’m done fighting alone. So, stand in the rain with me, dolcezza… Close your eyes and tip your head back. Hold on tight and see what happens.”
What an epic love story. Fabulous job Cora and Catherine!
December 21, 2021
Tatiana finds herself in Renzo’s sights as he embarks on a path of revenge following the murder of his brother, the heir to the Marchesi throne.
While, superficially, that storyline is similar to any number of mafia romances, what makes City of Thieves different are the compelling characters and their complex backstories.
From the very first page, we’re moved by the pain Tatiana has endured. Her history has shaped her future and formed her into the Ice Empress, as she’s known. Yet as secrets are revealed and the strings being pulled are unraveled, the unlikely duo are drawn toward one another like magnets. And their stories are more entangled than anyone could have expected.
The tale Cora and Catherine have spun is suspenseful and twisty with enough steam to make it sexciting and a HEA that’s gratifying.
While, superficially, that storyline is similar to any number of mafia romances, what makes City of Thieves different are the compelling characters and their complex backstories.
From the very first page, we’re moved by the pain Tatiana has endured. Her history has shaped her future and formed her into the Ice Empress, as she’s known. Yet as secrets are revealed and the strings being pulled are unraveled, the unlikely duo are drawn toward one another like magnets. And their stories are more entangled than anyone could have expected.
The tale Cora and Catherine have spun is suspenseful and twisty with enough steam to make it sexciting and a HEA that’s gratifying.
November 28, 2021
City of Thieves (Underworld Kings Series) by Catherine Wiltcher and Cora Kenborn. I can say I got very little sleep ready this book. Renzo aka Lorenzo Marchesi part of the Machesi crime family is intent on avenging the death of his Underboss older brother who was killed in an art deal gone wrong. Inorder to get into that world he enlist a young art gallery owner Tatiana Sanders, daughter of corrupt Senator Sanders. If you haven't read the Corrupt Gods Duet by the authors, please do. It is a really good read and the Senator is in those books. Because Renzo doesn't trust any one, the more time he spends with Tatiana he knows something isn't right. The sexual tension between them is through the roof. The more he learns about her and her secrets,the more he discover the trouble she has herself into. As Renzo puts the prices together we are treated to a story that had me guessing what was going on and who all was involved. So good!!! I definitely didn't expect all the twist and turns with this story. There were so many layers to this story. These two authors haven't disappointed me yet. A dynamic writing duo. So looking forward to their next endeavor. Way to go ladies 5 star read for me.
November 28, 2021
Holy Crud!!! The story of Renzo and Tatiana was one that will definitely keep you hanging on tightly to that wine glass!!! I love reading Cora and Catherine smashups. We then get to hear about past characters and some that had me yelling, "That SoB!"
My laughing quote of the book was (you have to read it to get it)... "Wincing at her curses, I make a mental note to buy her half of Tiffany’s when this is over."
My quote of this book was... "...it’s our scars and flaws that make us the real masterpieces."
I fell in love with the story of Rento and Tatiana. I thought the ending was going to be slightly different, but ooohhh, it was perfect! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My laughing quote of the book was (you have to read it to get it)... "Wincing at her curses, I make a mental note to buy her half of Tiffany’s when this is over."
My quote of this book was... "...it’s our scars and flaws that make us the real masterpieces."
I fell in love with the story of Rento and Tatiana. I thought the ending was going to be slightly different, but ooohhh, it was perfect! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 30, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Renzo Marchesi gives me two choices when he walks into my art gallery. Help him find his brother's killer of suffer the consequences. He's a mafia prince. Heir to the Marchesi throne. A man consumed by his demons. Beautiful. Ruthless. I don't belong in his world, and he doesn't belong in mine.
Still, I'm not the spoiled politician's daughter he thinks I am. This is the City of Thieves, where lies are hard currency and deception is the real art. Trust no one. Love no one. Too bad I don't follow my own rules. They say black arrows make for bleeding hearts. Now, I'm planning the ultimate heist for a man who never misses.
I do not even know that I know where to start. But I do know that I have to be really careful not to give anything away for someone who has not read it. When I picked up this book, I did not lay it down until I finished. I fell so hard for Renzo and Tatiana and their story. It is not a fairytale, they met and fell in love book. It is a enemies to lovers, age, gap, dark romance.
Renzo is having the worst day ever and shows up at his brother's funeral drunk. I really felt so sorry for him. After all he is the second son and the first is always groomed to taker their father's place and Renzo never really felt between his older brother and younger sister that he had a place in this world. But the time has come for him to step up and claim his spot as the underboss. But first he is on a mission to find out who killed his brother and why and make them pay. He and his brother did not have the greatest relationship but his brother asked him to help him deal in moving stolen art. This is what cost him his life and no one knows who did it or why. After gaining some information this leads Renzo straight to Tatiana. You would think Tatiana had it all but she doesn't and she has a reputation in the art world as being a Ice Queen and she never lets that mask fall either. But not Renzo needs her help and if he has to buy a painting out from under her nose he will and then use it to get her to help him. But Tatiana has some deep dark secrets she is hiding and one of them is huge and it also cost her her entire family. She is a Senator's daughter and not really thrilled that he uses that position to do some bad things. She also lives her life basically for two reason and one of those is her art gallery which she is about to lose due to the other secret and the strings that are pulled all the time by someone. I know that is cryptic and I have to stop talking about the story now or I am going to give something away.
I loved this book so very much. I fell so in love with the character and I loved most of all watching Renzo and Tatiana turn into different people who didn't know that they ever needed anyone to make their life worthwhile. My heart broke for both of them at times and while Renzo is all fists and power Tatiana is a scared little girl who is holding so many secrets and really has had all her power in how she lives her life and what she does that she doesn't even know just exactly how strong she really is. You do not want to miss this book. You are going to love it!!!
Renzo Marchesi gives me two choices when he walks into my art gallery. Help him find his brother's killer of suffer the consequences. He's a mafia prince. Heir to the Marchesi throne. A man consumed by his demons. Beautiful. Ruthless. I don't belong in his world, and he doesn't belong in mine.
Still, I'm not the spoiled politician's daughter he thinks I am. This is the City of Thieves, where lies are hard currency and deception is the real art. Trust no one. Love no one. Too bad I don't follow my own rules. They say black arrows make for bleeding hearts. Now, I'm planning the ultimate heist for a man who never misses.
I do not even know that I know where to start. But I do know that I have to be really careful not to give anything away for someone who has not read it. When I picked up this book, I did not lay it down until I finished. I fell so hard for Renzo and Tatiana and their story. It is not a fairytale, they met and fell in love book. It is a enemies to lovers, age, gap, dark romance.
Renzo is having the worst day ever and shows up at his brother's funeral drunk. I really felt so sorry for him. After all he is the second son and the first is always groomed to taker their father's place and Renzo never really felt between his older brother and younger sister that he had a place in this world. But the time has come for him to step up and claim his spot as the underboss. But first he is on a mission to find out who killed his brother and why and make them pay. He and his brother did not have the greatest relationship but his brother asked him to help him deal in moving stolen art. This is what cost him his life and no one knows who did it or why. After gaining some information this leads Renzo straight to Tatiana. You would think Tatiana had it all but she doesn't and she has a reputation in the art world as being a Ice Queen and she never lets that mask fall either. But not Renzo needs her help and if he has to buy a painting out from under her nose he will and then use it to get her to help him. But Tatiana has some deep dark secrets she is hiding and one of them is huge and it also cost her her entire family. She is a Senator's daughter and not really thrilled that he uses that position to do some bad things. She also lives her life basically for two reason and one of those is her art gallery which she is about to lose due to the other secret and the strings that are pulled all the time by someone. I know that is cryptic and I have to stop talking about the story now or I am going to give something away.
I loved this book so very much. I fell so in love with the character and I loved most of all watching Renzo and Tatiana turn into different people who didn't know that they ever needed anyone to make their life worthwhile. My heart broke for both of them at times and while Renzo is all fists and power Tatiana is a scared little girl who is holding so many secrets and really has had all her power in how she lives her life and what she does that she doesn't even know just exactly how strong she really is. You do not want to miss this book. You are going to love it!!!
November 28, 2021
All reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
Both authors are new to me so I wasn’t sure what to expect but I loved every minute of this story. Renzo Marchesi is the dark, brooding alpha who doesn’t know what love is until it hits him but he embraces it completely. There’s no agonizing over his life of solitude or being torn between his life and this new norm, he just falls for her and accepts it without question, which is hot as hell.
Tatiana is such a tragic character in every way. A chance encounter at the age of eighteen threw her life into darkness and depravity. She’s been living in hell every moment since. Just when she doesn’t think things could get any worse, Renzo drops into her life making demands that will destroy her. He doesn’t take no for an answer so he plans to bend her to his will even he admires her determination. But when he realizes what she’s fighting for, he only wants to save her.
Their story starts out dark but becomes selfless once they get to know each other. The sacrifices she’s made are so humbling, it hardly seems like anyone could be worthy of her but Renzo is willing to sacrifice everything to save what’s most important to Tatiana, proving himself to be everything she deserves. I absolutely love their story and could not put this book down.
November 29, 2021
The dynamic duo of Catherine Witcher and Cora Kenborn struck another 5 gold stars with their latest collab. It’s so amazing how the characters got their story uniquely their own. Two broken individuals will go the distance to survive and get their redemption. Its angsty, passionately hot, mysterious and action packed. A roller coaster of a story. Thank you Catherine and Cora for taking your readers to another wonderful ride.
November 29, 2021
I’ve been working my way through the Underworld Kings Series, and have to say, every book has been amazing. Love that there’s so many books by all different authors.
City of Thieves - When these two authors team up it’s always epic. I dropped everything to dive in to this book. I was so excited! I couldn’t read it fast enough.
Renzo and Tatiana’s story was fantastic. It was non stop action, danger, suspense, and SMOKING HOT! These two characters are explosive together.
City of Thieves - When these two authors team up it’s always epic. I dropped everything to dive in to this book. I was so excited! I couldn’t read it fast enough.
Renzo and Tatiana’s story was fantastic. It was non stop action, danger, suspense, and SMOKING HOT! These two characters are explosive together.
November 29, 2021
Renzo and Tatiana’s dark and twisted enemies to lovers tale had my full attention from the start. It was filled with secrets, lies, sacrifice, and a strong thirst for vengeance. I love that the characters entwine with Cora and Catherine’s other series. It’s a reminder that the characters we love or love to hate are still around. I highly recommend adding this story to your must read list. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
April 21, 2022
4.96 this is my new favourite stars
I haven't read a mafia novel is a while and the last one I read was awful. With every genre, there are thousands of books that are good, mediocre and straight up bad. The great ones (obviously, this is subjective) are far and few. A great book doesn't have to be perfect (again, this is subjective because what I would consider perfect would be a deal breaker for you and vice versa) but it should make you feel like all that time reading it was worth it.
I love enemies-to-lovers and the great chemistry in bed (and outside) that usually follows. City of Thieves delivered on both ends. The snark and banter was so good and never felt forced. Renzo and Tatiana weren't afraid of cutting each other with their words and didn't hold back. Of course, there was lust churning underneath it all that eventually turned into love, but the good things in life aren't always easy. There were a lot of hurdles both of them had to face, but the best thing of it all? They faced the storm together.
"We’ve been fighting our battles on our own for so long, dolcezza, but this time we’re fighting together. We’re stronger together.”
Renzo is soon to be the new underboss of the Marchesi family but his need for revenge is his topmost priority and what keeps him going. This man has a dirty, dirty mouth and I'd suck his gun anytime (Good lord, that was so hot🥵). He definitely had the skills to back him up as the underboss and he always keeps his promises. I would want this man on my side (or behind me or on top of me, I'm good with anything) in a fight against dirty mobsters. Though he was never the one to be gentle, he gave Tatiana all the power and the choice was always up to her. Someone with a past like hers, it was everything.
"He gives me choice and power and pushes me beyond my limits to a place where my past can’t hurt me. I give him something he craves: an outlet that banishes all his demons."
Tatiana impressed me with her strength and resolve. She was the victim of the manipulations of an older man who used the power of shame and guilt to keep her family and her sweet little daughter away from her. Having no one and turning yourself into an ice queen because that was the only way you could survive, takes a lot of patience and courage. As you can imagine, it is very lonely too. I'm so glad she found her happiness in Renzo.
This story was fast paced and kept me up all night. I would have finished it in one sitting if it hadn't been for life interfering with my reading time. There was never a dull moment and when there was pause in the action, these two were burning up the sheets.
The gun, the baptism in the rain (🥺) and the epilogue (💕) are few of my favourite parts of this story and I can't wait to read more from these authors.
There were a few instances where it was confusing to whom Tatiana was referring in her head. Here she was thinking about the bad guy a second ago but then imagines it's his tongue doing dirty things to her? (Obviously, she was fantasizing about Renzo. who wouldn't tbh). In the grand scheme of things, it doesn't really matter much but it did jar me and broke the flow of the story. Other than that, I'm definitely going to read this again.
Favourite quotes:
#1 "Hate swung to lust and trust so fast, both of us were caught in the crossfire."
#2 "A shoulder. A lung. A heart. I don’t give a fuck, so long as it’s my blood and not hers."
#3 "It strikes me how every life is like a painting. We all have imperfect layers and chipped frames. Some of us are discarded, and so many of us are damaged…
But, in the end, it’s our scars and flaws that make us the real masterpieces."
TW: rape (on-page but it's not detailed. It's implied and she tries to disassociate her mind from it)
Loss of a sibling (off-page)
I haven't read a mafia novel is a while and the last one I read was awful. With every genre, there are thousands of books that are good, mediocre and straight up bad. The great ones (obviously, this is subjective) are far and few. A great book doesn't have to be perfect (again, this is subjective because what I would consider perfect would be a deal breaker for you and vice versa) but it should make you feel like all that time reading it was worth it.
I love enemies-to-lovers and the great chemistry in bed (and outside) that usually follows. City of Thieves delivered on both ends. The snark and banter was so good and never felt forced. Renzo and Tatiana weren't afraid of cutting each other with their words and didn't hold back. Of course, there was lust churning underneath it all that eventually turned into love, but the good things in life aren't always easy. There were a lot of hurdles both of them had to face, but the best thing of it all? They faced the storm together.
"We’ve been fighting our battles on our own for so long, dolcezza, but this time we’re fighting together. We’re stronger together.”
Renzo is soon to be the new underboss of the Marchesi family but his need for revenge is his topmost priority and what keeps him going. This man has a dirty, dirty mouth and I'd suck his gun anytime (Good lord, that was so hot🥵). He definitely had the skills to back him up as the underboss and he always keeps his promises. I would want this man on my side (or behind me or on top of me, I'm good with anything) in a fight against dirty mobsters. Though he was never the one to be gentle, he gave Tatiana all the power and the choice was always up to her. Someone with a past like hers, it was everything.
"He gives me choice and power and pushes me beyond my limits to a place where my past can’t hurt me. I give him something he craves: an outlet that banishes all his demons."
Tatiana impressed me with her strength and resolve. She was the victim of the manipulations of an older man who used the power of shame and guilt to keep her family and her sweet little daughter away from her. Having no one and turning yourself into an ice queen because that was the only way you could survive, takes a lot of patience and courage. As you can imagine, it is very lonely too. I'm so glad she found her happiness in Renzo.
This story was fast paced and kept me up all night. I would have finished it in one sitting if it hadn't been for life interfering with my reading time. There was never a dull moment and when there was pause in the action, these two were burning up the sheets.
The gun, the baptism in the rain (🥺) and the epilogue (💕) are few of my favourite parts of this story and I can't wait to read more from these authors.
There were a few instances where it was confusing to whom Tatiana was referring in her head. Here she was thinking about the bad guy a second ago but then imagines it's his tongue doing dirty things to her? (Obviously, she was fantasizing about Renzo. who wouldn't tbh). In the grand scheme of things, it doesn't really matter much but it did jar me and broke the flow of the story. Other than that, I'm definitely going to read this again.
Favourite quotes:
#1 "Hate swung to lust and trust so fast, both of us were caught in the crossfire."
#2 "A shoulder. A lung. A heart. I don’t give a fuck, so long as it’s my blood and not hers."
#3 "It strikes me how every life is like a painting. We all have imperfect layers and chipped frames. Some of us are discarded, and so many of us are damaged…
But, in the end, it’s our scars and flaws that make us the real masterpieces."
TW: rape (on-page but it's not detailed. It's implied and she tries to disassociate her mind from it)
Loss of a sibling (off-page)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
not-going-to-read-it
November 29, 2021Again a heroine who was raped is probably the thing now
November 28, 2021
Perfect addition to the Underworld Kings world series of books! Deception and lies, blood ties and ruthless characters abound within the pages of this book. Tatiana and Renzo are ice and fire. When these two collide, their worlds combust. I love the possessiveness and surprising devotion that Renzo has for Tatiana. Also, the inner strength that Tatiana found inside herself to break away from her demons after five years was remarkable. Their story is filled with intrigue and lust; it's vicious and thrilling and utterly unputdownable!
November 29, 2021
Cora and Catherine continue their amazing streak of these next generation books with Tatiana and Renzo! This age gap / enemies to lovers romance is soooooo captivating and intense that you feel the angst coming out of the pages! So much great chemistry between these two! An amazing read that you won’t regret!
November 29, 2021
Underworld Kings. I died and woke up in dark, mafia heaven!
This writing duo has found a formula that keeps this reader coming back for more!
This series may be the best death of me! My heart beats fast and strong so many times throughout the story!
What these authors put their characters and readers through! Glorious intensity! Steamy sex scenes! Twists, turns, a plot so well developed and intricate!
I'm a goner! Lost in this duo's phenomenal story-telling!
This writing duo has found a formula that keeps this reader coming back for more!
This series may be the best death of me! My heart beats fast and strong so many times throughout the story!
What these authors put their characters and readers through! Glorious intensity! Steamy sex scenes! Twists, turns, a plot so well developed and intricate!
I'm a goner! Lost in this duo's phenomenal story-telling!
November 30, 2021
Another 5 star mafia book by this dynamic duo!
Lorenzo, is a complex guy out to avenge his brother's death. Tatiana has her own ties to darkness.
Renzo and Tatiana are fire and ice and when they get together....they explode!
I loved the chemisty between these two AND the action/adventure they are involved in together.
Lorenzo, is a complex guy out to avenge his brother's death. Tatiana has her own ties to darkness.
Renzo and Tatiana are fire and ice and when they get together....they explode!
I loved the chemisty between these two AND the action/adventure they are involved in together.
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