Tormented

The Fire #3

by Billie Lustig

They call me the pragmatic one. The sensible one. But that doesn’t mean I’m not as lethal as my brother if you piss me off. The Reyes family has managed to piss me off twice, and I’m ready to settle the score. But one humid night in Havana changes the game. Or should I say, Imogen Payne does, with her perky attitude and smart mouth, she’s nothing like I expected. Suddenly, the lines are blurred and nothing seems to go as planned. I’ve been burned before with catastrophic consequences, and there is no way I’m going to let that happen again. This time, I’m ready. This time, no woman will distract me. Not even a blonde with pretty blue eyes. **This is book #1 in the second Fire Duet, comes with a trigger warning and ends with a cliffhanger.**

Genres: Dark, Mafia Romance

463 pages, Paperback

First published October 25, 2022

About the author

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

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Reviews

[Ellie Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Priscilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

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

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Amber Keehn · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

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

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

I received a complimentary copy from the author through Booksprout.

[JenMcJ · Rating 1 out of 5]

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

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

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

[WhiskeyandReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Kim Stady · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

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

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

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

[Tasha_loves_to_read · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Ceri · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

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

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

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

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

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars for Tormented : A Mafia Romance by Billie Lustig

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

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

Can’t wait for Book 2 !.

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

[Smuttybooks_geekystuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Kristine L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

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

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omgoodness, If you have read the previous 2 books, then you have met Liam and Imogen; this book follows their story. And what a story it is! I knew it would be good. I wanted to wait until both parts were out because I didn't want to torment (ha) myself with a cliffhanger, but I loved them so much and read it anyway.
It is so good. Read it!

[marshas_world_of_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t realize how much I missed this world until I re-entered it. I went into this book prepared to hate Liam, even though I saw a different side of him in the last book. What I didn’t expect was just love him! He is a crime-lord and he’s hardened, but under all of that is who he really is. A big softy. Like he’ll getting stabby without blinking but is still a kind and caring kind of man. Then there’s Imogen, she‘s just perfect for Liam. I love the instant connection between them and how they want to be better versions of themselves for the other. Now the ending. Billie you did us dirty with that ending! Needless to say I can’t wait until the next book comes out in November. I really need to know what happens after that ending.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liam and Imogens story will have you gripping the pages, the characters develop well throughout and the story holds your attention, a great addition to the series and works standalone too.

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

[Kelly Bracci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been eagerly awaiting this I was thrilled to be able to read an ARC copy a few days before release.
The next installment in the series this was nothing short of fabulous.
A big recap of what happened previous then led us into the present & it was just as emotive, nail biting & sensual as expected.
No spoilers but what a woman Imogen is & as for the cliffhanger....!
Roll on the release of Torched!

[Christy Warthen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting!

Liam and Gen make a phenomenal pair and I love watching them find their way. That ending though....a month is a long time to wait to see what happens next!!

I voluntarily read an advanced copy.

[Jill McLaury · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re reading this series like I am, you’re reading it like you’re in the desert and they’re your only quench for thirst (pun intended). You’ll see some overlap in this book from 1 and 2 but it’s totally worth it to get Liam’s POV. Sit back and enjoy all that is the Carillo brothers.

[Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW I am blown away but Imogen and Liam's story... I have been waiting for this since I finished Kane and Callie's Story and Tormented did not disappoint.

Tormented shares the story of Liam and Imogen during Combust and their side of what was happening.

Liam is a hidden sweetheart who has always wanted to have a family. After being burned by the girls cousin, he wants revenge. Insert Imogen who steals his breath and makes him fall in love.

Imogen, has always been an interesting character of Billie's as she has mostly been a side character. It was so amazing to hear about her and the experiences shes gone through. Insert Liam who is a sexy alpha male and takes her breath away.

These two are so good together and I CANNOT wait to read more.

Billie Lustig once again has left me hanging and I AM IN DIRE NEED of the next instalment!

You guys must read this book.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is basically Liam’s story. It was an exciting & intriguing read. And am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Lisa Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

oh wow

What a wonderful series this has been , lots of action, twists and turns. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series

[Echo's Journey Through Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

We finally get inside the minds of Liam Carillo and the badass Imogen and it couldn't have been a better start for their story! 👌🏽😍 Tormented takes place in the past, present and future which gives you a whole new insight on these two and what they were up to when we before were focused on Callie and Kane.

Liam and Gen have so much chemistry from the first moments already and everything between them from the connection to the feelings, grow stronger by every moment they spend together 🤭💕 I loved how Gen completely found her way into Liam's heart no matter how much he didn't want it to happen and him to her heart as well.

The banter from the getgo had me so in love with them 😄 Do I even need to say anything about the steam? 'Cause Billie can seriously do no wrong, it was as burning and passionate as always! 😌❤️‍🔥

This was another rollercoaster that really keeps you on your toes and gaah that ending? Omggg cannot wait for Torched!!

[Robin L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a joy to be brought back to the world of Carrillos and Reyes! I was so glad Liam finally got his story. Tormented is the third book of the Fire series about him and Imogen. It was action-packed and thrilling from the start to the end. While Billie gave us insights into past events through Liam’s flashbacks, I would still encourage you to read the first two books to get a better understanding of how the story and relationships among the characters progressed.

The Carrillo brothers were the most feared crime lords in the city. Deadly, ruthless and powerful. The Reyes wanted to take over their drug business and expand the empire. When they went after Kane’s girl Callie, it was the last straw. Kane found Callie and also took in her cousin Imogen. The four together planned to take down the evil Reyes once and for all.

Kane was known to be the cunning one and Liam the more pragmatic one. His personality took a 180° turn when his ex betrayed him. He became stony, serious and untrusting. When Liam and Imogen first met, their attraction was instant and their chemistry was explosive. He however swore to never fall in love after what happened. They agreed to keep things physical but day by day, sassy Imogen demolished the walls grumpy Liam put up around his heart. They started to bond and form true feelings for one another.

Billie created her main characters in such a way that you just couldn’t not love them. Underneath that tough and broody exterior, Liam was a big softie. He had so much love to give he just did not know how. Imogen was not one to be bossed around and she definitely kept Liam on his toes. They brought out the best of one another and they were the perfect couple. Tormented ended with a cliffhanger and I needed the next book like yesterday.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved the first 2 in this series and was happy to know Liam and Imogen were getting a story. This book reads parallel to the 1st books to a degree until the end but purely Imogen and Liam's perspective. We learn more about them and see their relationship build. Then it ends in a cliffhanger and I NEED the rest. Can't wait.

[Kathrin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read Liam and Imogen's story and believe me this book did not disappoint. I loved seeing how their relationship developed and how good they were together. After that cliffhanger at the end, I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.

[Anna Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book. And here is my honest opinion. Parts of this story felt a little lost on me, and that is my fault. This is the third book in the Fire Series by Billie Lustig. Callous and Combust precede this story. I will say, it does make a very good story, even without the knowledge I would have if I’d read the first two books.

As for the characters. I love them. I love Kane and Callie, Liam, Imogen and even Jeremy! Liam and Imogen have such good chemistry, and I love that for once, they didn’t let anything come between them or break them up, unlike what happens in a lot of other romances. The plot was perfect and kept me interested, especially since I missed 2 books worth of information. I will add in that the story was phenomenal, even starting here. If you don’t read the first two, you’ll still get the gist of everything.

I can’t wait to dive back into the world of the Carrillos and see what happens next in Torched!