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Mafia Kings: Corrupted #3
Corrupted Protector
I live in a world where my tragedy is branded on my back in the shape of whips and lashes.
Every night, I ponder my fate and wish for death.
Until I escape.
I may have escaped the devil, but hell lives inside my head.
The secrets I know could ruin the most powerful men.
Including the gorgeous man who saves me.
As we get closer, I realize that we share the same wounds.
When I find out who his family is, I realize that I may as well have held the branding iron that scarred his back.
Leovino Luca may have saved me.
But he doesn’t know that he welcomed his downfall into his own home.
They say freedom comes with a price.
But why is my savior paying that price?
Every night, I ponder my fate and wish for death.
Until I escape.
I may have escaped the devil, but hell lives inside my head.
The secrets I know could ruin the most powerful men.
Including the gorgeous man who saves me.
As we get closer, I realize that we share the same wounds.
When I find out who his family is, I realize that I may as well have held the branding iron that scarred his back.
Leovino Luca may have saved me.
But he doesn’t know that he welcomed his downfall into his own home.
They say freedom comes with a price.
But why is my savior paying that price?
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2022
286 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
November 8, 2022
Lemme begin by saying there's a pet duck named Duck.
“The duck stays here,” I said—not something I ever thought I’d have to say.
Leo is everything I wish a man was ✨
The prologue smacks you in the face with what Ella's situation is like. More like her trauma. Damn I really felt for the girl. I haven't read the first 2 books in the series so I was a little lost but if you are looking for a romantic thriller with mafia go for it!!
Stamps:
✨Mafia romance
✨ Protective MMC 🌚
✨Traumatic past (both MCs)
✨Dark theme (slavery/ sexual abuse)
✨PET DUCK!!!!!!
✨🔥 Spicy 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Forced proximity (H takes h away to protect her)
A big thank you to the author for the ARC
“The duck stays here,” I said—not something I ever thought I’d have to say.
Leo is everything I wish a man was ✨
The prologue smacks you in the face with what Ella's situation is like. More like her trauma. Damn I really felt for the girl. I haven't read the first 2 books in the series so I was a little lost but if you are looking for a romantic thriller with mafia go for it!!
Stamps:
✨Mafia romance
✨ Protective MMC 🌚
✨Traumatic past (both MCs)
✨Dark theme (slavery/ sexual abuse)
✨PET DUCK!!!!!!
✨🔥 Spicy 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨Forced proximity (H takes h away to protect her)
A big thank you to the author for the ARC
April 28, 2023
Thank you God for consistent authors who know how to write good plot with great characters
In a sea of mediocre dark romances that obliterates the FL personality and reduces her to just a beautiful face and hot body, Ella was exceptional 👌👌👌👌👌👌👌❤❤❤❤❤❤
Leo was hot too 😍
The story grabs you immediately from page one till the end. There is no dull moment. No page you want to skip or skim. I was devouring the words
Leo is your typical Mafia prince with a side of humor - an extra bonus in my book.
"We have a problem Leo" Dante said
"Global warming?"
🤣🤣🤣🤣
But it was Ella that captured my heart
She never gave up her freedom even when caged and shackled and R-ed. She was always free in her soul
She fought long and hard. Waited for every opportunity. Took every chance. And I believe she would have saved her self from Riccardo in the end even without Leo appearing
And this is how you write a strong FL
Don't make her a helpless cry baby
I just have one question
Will Duck get his own book? 😅
In a sea of mediocre dark romances that obliterates the FL personality and reduces her to just a beautiful face and hot body, Ella was exceptional 👌👌👌👌👌👌👌❤❤❤❤❤❤
Leo was hot too 😍
The story grabs you immediately from page one till the end. There is no dull moment. No page you want to skip or skim. I was devouring the words
Leo is your typical Mafia prince with a side of humor - an extra bonus in my book.
"We have a problem Leo" Dante said
"Global warming?"
🤣🤣🤣🤣
But it was Ella that captured my heart
She never gave up her freedom even when caged and shackled and R-ed. She was always free in her soul
She fought long and hard. Waited for every opportunity. Took every chance. And I believe she would have saved her self from Riccardo in the end even without Leo appearing
And this is how you write a strong FL
Don't make her a helpless cry baby
I just have one question
Will Duck get his own book? 😅
March 19, 2025
This was a hard one to read. I knew from the summary that it would be, but since the reviews said that everything was necessary, I pushed through. The story was action-packed with a lot of revelations. I think Ella was a great addition to this growing, mafia family.
November 9, 2022
I must say I am really enjoying this series. In this one we find Ella, completely on her own and in danger. Leo is just the right person to encounter her and become enthralled by her. I loved their chemistry and the way they fit together.
Corrupted Protector had enough steam and action to keep me entertained.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Corrupted Protector had enough steam and action to keep me entertained.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2022
Love the series can’t wait for Corrupted Obsession To finally hear Dante story
February 29, 2024
I love this author. She pulls you into the story. I felt like a long lost sister. I honestly don’t understand why people are not obsessed with this series. Well…. Ella has been used, sold and resold. Leo Luca is a savor and enjoys fire. From page one you are glued to their journey. The Luca bond and rescuing mistreated women is it’s self worth the read. Just wow.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2022
Corrupted Protector is another hot read in this series. I couldn't wait to get Leo's story he has made me laugh and been such a good guy. I wasn't sure Leo would ever really settle down he has always been such a playboy and just enjoys playing around. He gets his job done but he will be cracking jokes the whole time. Yet, when he sees Ella at the bike bar, he feels something different. Ella is a mystery to him, and he needs to know more. Ella has had a heartbreaking start. The beginning of this book made her seem to be almost broken, but no one could ever really take her spirit away. I will say check any trigger warnings because reading what all she has gone through in this book could be hard for some people. I do think there was a little more trigger type material written in this book compared to book 1 and 2, but it was needed to make this story work, I think. It made you want Ella to get her happy ending even more, she was such a deserving person. I loved that Leo would do anything to keep Ella safe even if it meant she would be upset with him. Her safety was his number one priority. She also tried pushing him away and he wouldn't let it happen. This book showed such a different side of Leo and I'm loving him even more. The book also had some twists I didn't see coming and a few people that were surprising which side they were on. I didn't want to put the book down, I needed to know what was going to happen.
I like that the series is interconnected and that we still get to find out about the whole family and how everyone works together. We still get to read about the two other couples Dom and Fallon, Nico and Raven. Also, Dante, Gabe, Greta, Brute, Vito and others. It was an interesting turn to learn about Ella's background and meet her family. I loved the mention of Greta and Gabe having an easy rapport. I really enjoy everyone that has been involved in these families coming together and glad I always get to read about them.
For me this part of the book showed how the relationship between Ella and Leo was: Ella says "It was the night I started running to you, Leo...I just didn't realize it at the time." "He laughed. "Ella, you might have started running to me that night, but I've been waiting for you my whole life.""
I like that the series is interconnected and that we still get to find out about the whole family and how everyone works together. We still get to read about the two other couples Dom and Fallon, Nico and Raven. Also, Dante, Gabe, Greta, Brute, Vito and others. It was an interesting turn to learn about Ella's background and meet her family. I loved the mention of Greta and Gabe having an easy rapport. I really enjoy everyone that has been involved in these families coming together and glad I always get to read about them.
For me this part of the book showed how the relationship between Ella and Leo was: Ella says "It was the night I started running to you, Leo...I just didn't realize it at the time." "He laughed. "Ella, you might have started running to me that night, but I've been waiting for you my whole life.""
November 16, 2022
This is part of the Mafia Kings Corrupted series each book can be read as a standalone with a ruthless yet sexy protector and the women who captures his attention. Buckle up this is a wild ride, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, so gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love (ALL THINGS TO EXPECT FROM THE MAFIA WORLD). By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
CAN’T SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED!!!!!!
Leo sexy as all get out playboy well know as a playboy never really wanting to settle down he is the one with a ready smile that often times throws people for a loop and yet he gets the job done when needed the moment he see the girl that is supposed to be his in a biker bar changes his path. Ella working the biker bar life has been hard for her broken but yet hasn’t allowed it to break her spirit especially after going through what she been through and noticing the sexy guy at the bar never imagining he would be her way out of the nightmare. Finely a man who would protect her keep her safe no matter what it took even if it meant she was mad with him often time she was but we see a side of Leo that we never saw before protective, loving, intense we have seen but not this intense willing to risk everything to ensure her safety willing to show her sides to himself that most have never seen. Ella knows more than she has let own will she tell them the whole truth which may help them but she more afraid it might hurt them, will they find out who she really is, will she realize she is a protector of the man she loves, the man who taught her it is okay to trust again, will there be a war or will the knowledge they gain prevent a war, and can they find happiness, a little peace from what she has been through?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
CAN’T SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED!!!!!!
Leo sexy as all get out playboy well know as a playboy never really wanting to settle down he is the one with a ready smile that often times throws people for a loop and yet he gets the job done when needed the moment he see the girl that is supposed to be his in a biker bar changes his path. Ella working the biker bar life has been hard for her broken but yet hasn’t allowed it to break her spirit especially after going through what she been through and noticing the sexy guy at the bar never imagining he would be her way out of the nightmare. Finely a man who would protect her keep her safe no matter what it took even if it meant she was mad with him often time she was but we see a side of Leo that we never saw before protective, loving, intense we have seen but not this intense willing to risk everything to ensure her safety willing to show her sides to himself that most have never seen. Ella knows more than she has let own will she tell them the whole truth which may help them but she more afraid it might hurt them, will they find out who she really is, will she realize she is a protector of the man she loves, the man who taught her it is okay to trust again, will there be a war or will the knowledge they gain prevent a war, and can they find happiness, a little peace from what she has been through?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2022
This is my review of a beta copy (thank you, Kiana, for the opportunity!) so things might change by the time this is published.
Ella has been through a lot but found the courage to escape from her tormentors. When she meets Leo, she tries to avoid allowing him to help her and barely speaks a word to him due to her mistrust and fear of others and also having been trained to be that way. However, he has the patience of a saint and slowly breaks down her walls. He encourages her to reconnect and even is able to connect with her on a personal level through his own trauma and his charm. The two of them have good hearts as they want to protect those they care about and want to do what they think is best for the other.
In terms of plot, we have much of the book trying to uncover secrets and figuring out how the Luca family and their allies can hold off the threat of a future war. With Ella thrown into the mix, there are things she knows that may help them but also might endanger them. The rest of the book is mainly focused on Luca and Ella's relationship as well as figuring out who Ella really is.
I also liked the side characters, most of whom were introduced in the previous two books in this series, so while it's not required to read them, I think you would have full enjoyment of this book if you do read the others, which are just as engaging. Without these characters, I think this story might have been stunted a little, since these side characters help out our main couple in different ways, not necessarily to push them together but to help solve the mysteries related to them. We also have new side characters, such as Duck, who is such a quack!
The pacing of the book is also well done, with suspense and keeping readers on their toes. Overall, I enjoyed reading this even while it was in a draft form. I look forward to seeing what the final version turns out to be like!
Ella has been through a lot but found the courage to escape from her tormentors. When she meets Leo, she tries to avoid allowing him to help her and barely speaks a word to him due to her mistrust and fear of others and also having been trained to be that way. However, he has the patience of a saint and slowly breaks down her walls. He encourages her to reconnect and even is able to connect with her on a personal level through his own trauma and his charm. The two of them have good hearts as they want to protect those they care about and want to do what they think is best for the other.
In terms of plot, we have much of the book trying to uncover secrets and figuring out how the Luca family and their allies can hold off the threat of a future war. With Ella thrown into the mix, there are things she knows that may help them but also might endanger them. The rest of the book is mainly focused on Luca and Ella's relationship as well as figuring out who Ella really is.
I also liked the side characters, most of whom were introduced in the previous two books in this series, so while it's not required to read them, I think you would have full enjoyment of this book if you do read the others, which are just as engaging. Without these characters, I think this story might have been stunted a little, since these side characters help out our main couple in different ways, not necessarily to push them together but to help solve the mysteries related to them. We also have new side characters, such as Duck, who is such a quack!
The pacing of the book is also well done, with suspense and keeping readers on their toes. Overall, I enjoyed reading this even while it was in a draft form. I look forward to seeing what the final version turns out to be like!
November 11, 2022
"Wow...Corrupted Protector is even better than Corrupted Heir and Corrupted Temptation. This is my favorite book and Leo and Ella are my favorite hero/heroine in this series. I will be honest I didn't believe it was possible for the series to get better than it already is, but Kiana Hettinger delivered. She has fast become one of my favorite authors! Corrupted Protector kept me on the edge of my seat anticipating what would happen next - I just couldn't put the book down. This was a very exciting read for me.
I love the dynamic between Leo and Ella. He really is protective of her. He has this incredible patience with Ella during the process of helping her realize that he has honest intentions. Not only honest intentions, but he will protector her with his life and she can tell him anything without judgment. Ella is very enduring - she is brave and has an incredible strength she doesn't even realize she possess. It is hard for her to trust other people because of what she has gone through. Ella is a protector as well and will do whatever it takes to keep Leo safe. All of the characters in this book are very loveable and you can't help, but cheer them on as they face challenges along the way. Leo and Ella are very relatable which allowed me to feel their emotions throughout the story.
I don't write spoilers in my reviews and if any reviewers state there are spoilers in their review please skip past those ones. This is a story you want to go in blind and experience without those spoilers trust me you'll understand once you read the book. Plus I don't feel it is fair to the author.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review."
I love the dynamic between Leo and Ella. He really is protective of her. He has this incredible patience with Ella during the process of helping her realize that he has honest intentions. Not only honest intentions, but he will protector her with his life and she can tell him anything without judgment. Ella is very enduring - she is brave and has an incredible strength she doesn't even realize she possess. It is hard for her to trust other people because of what she has gone through. Ella is a protector as well and will do whatever it takes to keep Leo safe. All of the characters in this book are very loveable and you can't help, but cheer them on as they face challenges along the way. Leo and Ella are very relatable which allowed me to feel their emotions throughout the story.
I don't write spoilers in my reviews and if any reviewers state there are spoilers in their review please skip past those ones. This is a story you want to go in blind and experience without those spoilers trust me you'll understand once you read the book. Plus I don't feel it is fair to the author.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review."
November 8, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "CORRUPTED PROTECTOR" I absolutely loved this story from the start its full of suspense, intrigue, angst, secrets, lies, betrayal, emotional turmoil, steam, deceit, danger,kidnapping,humantrafficking, violence & twists you never saw coming.
Ella has suffered a horrific life since she lost her family at age 16yrs. she manged to get the strength & courage to escape her brutal captor Fiorenzo Aalone, she finds a job with Brute at his bar he takes her under his wing like daughter he's very protective of her.
Leo Lucas sees Ella working in Brutes bar she's very different than the other waitresses she shy, quiet, doesn't talk much, later when he leaves Leo finds her in the back of his car, asks why she's there but at a stop light she gets out runs to get apartment.
Ella doesn't show to work & Brute is worried about her, he tells Leo he doesn't know where she lives, but he does & goes to check on her, finds her on her knees with one of her enemies, he saves her but she doesn't want him to especially after she finds who he is she doesn't trust anyone easily.
I definitely recommend to get this 5 Stars Plus story you don't want miss getting Leo & Ella take you on quite the ride, so many different Mafia groups, Bratva, MC's come together to help with the situation she finds herself in, so many secrets, surprises are revealed, you can't put this book down & still want more of the characters, & don't get me started on that Duck to funny. PHENOMINAL TWISTED ROMANCE 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
Ella has suffered a horrific life since she lost her family at age 16yrs. she manged to get the strength & courage to escape her brutal captor Fiorenzo Aalone, she finds a job with Brute at his bar he takes her under his wing like daughter he's very protective of her.
Leo Lucas sees Ella working in Brutes bar she's very different than the other waitresses she shy, quiet, doesn't talk much, later when he leaves Leo finds her in the back of his car, asks why she's there but at a stop light she gets out runs to get apartment.
Ella doesn't show to work & Brute is worried about her, he tells Leo he doesn't know where she lives, but he does & goes to check on her, finds her on her knees with one of her enemies, he saves her but she doesn't want him to especially after she finds who he is she doesn't trust anyone easily.
I definitely recommend to get this 5 Stars Plus story you don't want miss getting Leo & Ella take you on quite the ride, so many different Mafia groups, Bratva, MC's come together to help with the situation she finds herself in, so many secrets, surprises are revealed, you can't put this book down & still want more of the characters, & don't get me started on that Duck to funny. PHENOMINAL TWISTED ROMANCE 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
October 28, 2022
This book follows some of the characters introduced in the first two books. It's not necessary to read the first books to follow this story but it definitely helped this reader appreciate Ella and Leo's story.
Ella is a slave who has escaped her captors, she has deep scars on her back from being abused and even a brand that tells others, who owns her.
Ella is hiding and working in a bar with Brute; the owner who has taken her under his wing. Leo happens into the bar and is smitten with her. Things happen and Leo offers protection which Ella is fearful to accept.
"The petrichor scent of the earth after a fresh rain assailed my nostrils-this was what freedom smelled like."
"Ella was like a million puzzle pieces, and apparently, I had a thing for beautiful puzzles."
"The way Ella's brows knitted together bespoke her confusion."
"I had a feeling every minute with Ella was going to be one hell of a wild ride."
This author writes beautifully, she captures the feelings of her characters and the story flows beautifully.
If you like a lot of suspense with your romance, give this book a try. I know you will love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ella is a slave who has escaped her captors, she has deep scars on her back from being abused and even a brand that tells others, who owns her.
Ella is hiding and working in a bar with Brute; the owner who has taken her under his wing. Leo happens into the bar and is smitten with her. Things happen and Leo offers protection which Ella is fearful to accept.
"The petrichor scent of the earth after a fresh rain assailed my nostrils-this was what freedom smelled like."
"Ella was like a million puzzle pieces, and apparently, I had a thing for beautiful puzzles."
"The way Ella's brows knitted together bespoke her confusion."
"I had a feeling every minute with Ella was going to be one hell of a wild ride."
This author writes beautifully, she captures the feelings of her characters and the story flows beautifully.
If you like a lot of suspense with your romance, give this book a try. I know you will love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
Wow what a captivating story as this young girl, Ella has been held captive, kept in slavery until she finds the opportunity and the courage to run for her life. Living on the edge of capture every day she knows she can’t return their again, the whippings, the brutality she suffered, but she also knows she holds so many secrets in her head she can’t be left on the loose. She escaped from the bar she works at, and she meets Leovino Luca. The next day he ends up saving her life, from being captured by her enemy. There’s so many things going on, the story and its characters are more intertwined than I imagine. Lies and secrets are revealed, and the plot thickens until the end when all the final secrets unraveled. I love how Leo starts to open himself up to Ella, revealing his own traumatic capture and kidnapping experience. Leo and Ella start to bond, their shattered souls calling to each other, to confide some of her secrets to him, it’s wonderful to finally see her start to trust Leo. Will she trust him to keep her safe or run? When danger strikes again will run and she save herself? Will she do the most unselfish thing save Leo and his family, loves unconditional sacrifice? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2022
I was definitely looking forward to this book because it was about our loveable Leo. It was amazing seeing him fall in love. He’s always been the jokester and no strings attached one out of the Luca family. Plus there’s a pet duck named duck, how could I resist that?! I fell in love with Leo in book one and I couldn't wait to read his story. Of course, it had to have a heroine with a tragic story, a story that only Leo could truly understand. Ella was given away/sold by her foster dad to repay a debt. No matter what she was put through and forced to do, under it all she still had her strength. With Leo by her side, she was able to bring it back out because Leo made her feel again. Ella is a fighter and she finally had someone to fight for. They were truly a match and I'm so glad we got to see that side of Leo and how intertwined everyone is. I want to say so much but don't want to give the story away. I'm happy we got to see everyone from book one and two. I'm excited to read Dante's story next because I love all the Luca men and they all need strong women by their side. Make sure you get your copy now because Leo's story didn't disappoint.
* Thank you BookSirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily! *
* Thank you BookSirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily! *
November 15, 2022
This book entertained me from the start! It has lots of action-packed, romance, steamy romance, entertaining, wonderful characters, twists and unpredictable turns. From the first page my attention was grabbed and it lasted to the last page. In fact, I sat down and didn't want to put the book down until I got to the end.
What was so good about this book was the wonderful characters, Leovino (Leo) and Ella, who met by chance one night. Leo ended up saving Ella, who didn't trust Leo but was attracted to him. Leo ended up protecting Ella and pulled in his family into the situations, issues, protection and resolutions. Its a lot of fun and very entertaining with all of the action, steamy and romantic scenes between Leo & Ella, and the other wonderful characters.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Dark Mafia Romance, Thriller Romance, Suspense Romance, and Cartel Romance books. This book is easy to read, a page-turner, and very entertaining so grab yourself a copy, find a quiet place to read, then have yourself a great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What was so good about this book was the wonderful characters, Leovino (Leo) and Ella, who met by chance one night. Leo ended up saving Ella, who didn't trust Leo but was attracted to him. Leo ended up protecting Ella and pulled in his family into the situations, issues, protection and resolutions. Its a lot of fun and very entertaining with all of the action, steamy and romantic scenes between Leo & Ella, and the other wonderful characters.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Dark Mafia Romance, Thriller Romance, Suspense Romance, and Cartel Romance books. This book is easy to read, a page-turner, and very entertaining so grab yourself a copy, find a quiet place to read, then have yourself a great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2022
I read a Beta copy of Corrupted Protector, and I have really enjoyed getting to know the Luca family in this series. This slow burn mafia romance is full of suspense, romance, and secrets.
Leo Luca, who we first meet in Corrupted Heir (the first book in the Mafia Kings series) saves Ella after she experienced a traumatic event. Leo instantly wants to care for her and nurture her, but Ella isn’t exactly what she seems.
Everyone was keeping secrets in this one. There was so much suspense surrounding each reveal and I had a hard time putting this one down.
I really liked both Leo and Ella’s characters. Leo will tear down the world to keep Ella safe and continues to follow his heart no matter what. Ella has also been through a tremendous amount in the short period of her life. She has no idea how much she needs someone like Leo, but some of her secrets could really destroy Leo. It’s a tough balance for her. Their connection is really strong and there is great tension between them.
Overall, I really enjoyed this mafia romance and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Leo Luca, who we first meet in Corrupted Heir (the first book in the Mafia Kings series) saves Ella after she experienced a traumatic event. Leo instantly wants to care for her and nurture her, but Ella isn’t exactly what she seems.
Everyone was keeping secrets in this one. There was so much suspense surrounding each reveal and I had a hard time putting this one down.
I really liked both Leo and Ella’s characters. Leo will tear down the world to keep Ella safe and continues to follow his heart no matter what. Ella has also been through a tremendous amount in the short period of her life. She has no idea how much she needs someone like Leo, but some of her secrets could really destroy Leo. It’s a tough balance for her. Their connection is really strong and there is great tension between them.
Overall, I really enjoyed this mafia romance and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
October 26, 2022
I feel Leo and Ella are soulmates. The way they met, how Leo instinctively knew something was off about Ella and yet gave her space to think and adjust. But Ella was still too naive about the bad sadistic men that had controlled her. In her efforts to keep others safe she just made it worse. In the end Leo realized how much they had in common down to the torture and suffering. He never gave up on her. Now she was free to do and love what and whom she pleased. She chose Leo. The next adventure for them was saving the lives of innocents being trafficked. I also liked when she thought herself with no family and no one to turn to, Leo accidentally found her extended family. What a comfort, what a joy only to be spoiled by her inner turmoil to protect them all.
A very good read. I do recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Informative
Inspirational
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Scary
Steamy
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
A very good read. I do recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Informative
Inspirational
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Scary
Steamy
Tragic
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
October 28, 2022
Wow, I have no words to say about this book. Ella and Leo give us a story that will take your breath away.
Ella, after a violent past tries to stay hidden by the people that she knows is after her. Because of this, she vowed to never have feelings for someone because if she does she knows that it can be used against her.
Leo, seeing Ella in the bar for the first time, thought she was beautiful but also knew she was off limits. After crossing paths that night he felt drawn to her, little did he know just how drawn to her he was.Ella has so much baggage that they need to deal with in order to have peace. Can Leo help her and they both get the happiness they are searching for?
I absolutely love this story and will be doing a reread of not only this one but all 3 books of the Mafia Kings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ella, after a violent past tries to stay hidden by the people that she knows is after her. Because of this, she vowed to never have feelings for someone because if she does she knows that it can be used against her.
Leo, seeing Ella in the bar for the first time, thought she was beautiful but also knew she was off limits. After crossing paths that night he felt drawn to her, little did he know just how drawn to her he was.Ella has so much baggage that they need to deal with in order to have peace. Can Leo help her and they both get the happiness they are searching for?
I absolutely love this story and will be doing a reread of not only this one but all 3 books of the Mafia Kings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2022
This was my first Kiana Hettinger book and let me just say I was totally impressed and will absolutely be coming back for more!! I know this was book three of the series but, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all and I feel like you could definitely read this as a stand alone (one of the reasons I was so impressed).
I love a darker romance (I’m a total sucker for them) and add in a bad boy with a heart of Gold and I’m a goner!! I’m looking at you Leo. This book had it all. Love, intensity, heartbreak and betrayal were a lot of the major themes but, within was hope, friendship and love of family. When you can take a character like Ella, our leading heroine that was betrayed by so many and give her the ability to love someone else AND trust someone else wholeheartedly you’ve got something special.
If you love an intense mafia romance with a HEA then this book is for you!
I love a darker romance (I’m a total sucker for them) and add in a bad boy with a heart of Gold and I’m a goner!! I’m looking at you Leo. This book had it all. Love, intensity, heartbreak and betrayal were a lot of the major themes but, within was hope, friendship and love of family. When you can take a character like Ella, our leading heroine that was betrayed by so many and give her the ability to love someone else AND trust someone else wholeheartedly you’ve got something special.
If you love an intense mafia romance with a HEA then this book is for you!
October 23, 2022
Leo had felt like something was missing from his life, he had it all, the family, money, everything but he still felt it, until Ella comes blazing into his life. Ella didn't have an easy life, she was constantly looking over her shoulder, waiting for her old life to come back for her and when it does, Leo is the one to save her. But can she trust him? Leo is drawn to Ella, he can see her mind turning at every question and gesture he gives, Leo makes it his mission to find out what happened to her, but can Ella afford to spill what she knows? Should Leo trust Ella? Well written the story is a slow burn, teasingly steamy read, that has you hooked from the start. Well detailed and packed with emotions, desire, loyalty, trust, secrets, twists and turns, drama and more!
November 16, 2022
Ella escapes a hellish life, trained by her vicious captor to use her body as a way to gather information for him. She is laying low, knowing that Signore Avalone is trying to recover her and the information she has.
Leo Luca has also spent time in the hands of vicious men. So when he and Ella come into contact, he can empathize with her trauma.
This is a mafia story, the third book of the Mafia Kings series. There is graphic violence, degradation, and torture. There is also love, caring, and formation of kinship. Plenty of twists and turns in the story to keep your interest. I highly recommend this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leo Luca has also spent time in the hands of vicious men. So when he and Ella come into contact, he can empathize with her trauma.
This is a mafia story, the third book of the Mafia Kings series. There is graphic violence, degradation, and torture. There is also love, caring, and formation of kinship. Plenty of twists and turns in the story to keep your interest. I highly recommend this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2023
Leo and Ella's story was a wild ride, filled with bumps and a duck…?
This story was a good one, although it wasn't my favourite in the series (the first two were more my speed), it didn't disappoint either. At times I felt the story went on for a bit too long and it was a bit convoluted with all the characters you are introduced to and have to keep track of from previous books, it was still good. I would say if you're wanting to continue the series you can decide if this book is one that would be your speed or not. I just couldn't understand the dynamic between the two main characters even as their story evolved.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story was a good one, although it wasn't my favourite in the series (the first two were more my speed), it didn't disappoint either. At times I felt the story went on for a bit too long and it was a bit convoluted with all the characters you are introduced to and have to keep track of from previous books, it was still good. I would say if you're wanting to continue the series you can decide if this book is one that would be your speed or not. I just couldn't understand the dynamic between the two main characters even as their story evolved.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 1, 2022
This is the 3rd book in the Mafia Kings: Corrupted Series and it follows some of the characters from the first two books. You don’t have to read the first two books to follow this story but you’re missing on some good reading. This book focuses on Ella and Leo's story. This is another example of this author’s beautiful writing where the feelings of the characters and the story are just great. She tries to stay hidden from her violent past and she vows not to develop feelings for anybody as that can be used against her. He saves her. This book is a slow burn, teasingly steamy, packed with emotions, secrets, twists and turns. It will hook you from the start.
November 5, 2022
Twists, turns, suspense, romance - what more could you want! This is the third installment in the Mafia Kings series. Ella had been held hostage for years before she escapes and has to learn to trust again. Her past catches up to her, but she is saved by Leo. Leo's family protects their own and choses to do right by Ella. They use their resources to delve into Ella's unknown past. With the combined efforts of many families all related to Ella, she is able to overcome her past demons and start living her future with Leo! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2022
CORRUPTED PROTECTOR can be read as a standalone, but since I read the other books in the series, too, I had a better experience. Leo is the male lead in this story, but in an earlier book he was kidnapped and sustained injuries that a lessor man would not have survived. What happened is part of this story and creates the initial bond Leo has with Ella whose own unspeakable treatment sets the stage for not only the romance, but also the mafia conflict in the story.
This is a great addition to the series and it is made richer by knowing what the Lucas have endured already.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a great addition to the series and it is made richer by knowing what the Lucas have endured already.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 8, 2022
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book it was awesome, the storyline was fantastic and the characters were sensational. This book was a pages turner with the action and suspense when your on the edge of your seat rooting for the girl to escape. He caught up with someone to do a job with and never expected to find the other half of himself. Ella has so many secrets, more than anyone person knew, but to protect people she started to know. Leo would do anything to protect her, he doesn't want to be without her, and the heat just gets hotter.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book it was awesome, the storyline was fantastic and the characters were sensational. This book was a pages turner with the action and suspense when your on the edge of your seat rooting for the girl to escape. He caught up with someone to do a job with and never expected to find the other half of himself. Ella has so many secrets, more than anyone person knew, but to protect people she started to know. Leo would do anything to protect her, he doesn't want to be without her, and the heat just gets hotter.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book it was awesome, the storyline was fantastic and the characters were sensational. This book was a pages turner with the action and suspense when your on the edge of your seat rooting for the girl to escape. He caught up with someone to do a job with and never expected to find the other half of himself. Ella has so many secrets, more than anyone person knew, but to protect people she started to know. Leo would do anything to protect her, he doesn't want to be without her, and the heat just gets hotter.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book it was awesome, the storyline was fantastic and the characters were sensational. This book was a pages turner with the action and suspense when your on the edge of your seat rooting for the girl to escape. He caught up with someone to do a job with and never expected to find the other half of himself. Ella has so many secrets, more than anyone person knew, but to protect people she started to know. Leo would do anything to protect her, he doesn't want to be without her, and the heat just gets hotter.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2022
All I can say is wow. This story drew me in from the very beginning. Elsa is being held as a slave and makes another attempt at escaping, getting some unexpected help. The question is, why did this person help her? But even as she manages to escape, she knows that she isn't safe.
I loved how the story progressed, especially in regards to what secrets Elsa held regarding the Luca family. It was full of suspense, had some twists and turns, an interesting cast of characters, and hot chemistry between Elsa and Leo. While there were a number of families involved, I felt enough information was given to know what was going on even though I haven't read the previous two stories.
I loved how the story progressed, especially in regards to what secrets Elsa held regarding the Luca family. It was full of suspense, had some twists and turns, an interesting cast of characters, and hot chemistry between Elsa and Leo. While there were a number of families involved, I felt enough information was given to know what was going on even though I haven't read the previous two stories.
November 13, 2022
This was a great read, it was great to see Leo's story come to life.
Leo is funny, a protector with a hard past.
Ella has been through so much trauma but has her secrets.
These two are prefect for each other. Ella needs saving, protecting and to feel safe. Leo has someone to share his trauma with and has a need to protect but also understood Ella needed her space to open up in her own time.
And we can't forget Duck! He stole the show.
This book like the others has everything you could want suspense, secrets that you keep guessing, great spice 🌶 and a great couple to get to know.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leo is funny, a protector with a hard past.
Ella has been through so much trauma but has her secrets.
These two are prefect for each other. Ella needs saving, protecting and to feel safe. Leo has someone to share his trauma with and has a need to protect but also understood Ella needed her space to open up in her own time.
And we can't forget Duck! He stole the show.
This book like the others has everything you could want suspense, secrets that you keep guessing, great spice 🌶 and a great couple to get to know.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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