A DARK MAFIA ROMANCE
Girls like me, we know how to survive.
We each have our own little ways, but we acquire those skills at the same tender age.
If you ask me how many times a person can die, I’ll tell you many times. As many times as a man stabs you in the stomach with betrayal and wrings out your heart with lies.
Girls like me, we live.
We don’t get a choice.
We step over the cliff and fall.… choice.
We step over the cliff and fall.
Eat, sleep, die, and repeat.
(Diamonds in the Rough is Book 2 of the Diamonds are Forever Trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. Book 3, Diamonds are Forever, which concludes the story, will be released in September 2020.)
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After Diamonds in the Dust,i was happy i could go straight to Diamonds in the Rough,but now?
After finishing the arc? Knowing what i feared is true? Knowing the whole truth?
YOU ARE KILLING ME Charmaine!
I NEED CLOSURE!
I NEED Diamonds Are Forever!
Zoe is stuck,Maxime has made it clear he will never let her go.
Not only that,he very cleverly manipulates her into caring about him.
Slaying her with kindness,spoiling her as long as she behaves.
Punishing her for questioning him delivers the message she should be happy living in ignorance.
When she confesses her love for him,he is honest though….
He is a man incapable of that feeling,the most she can expect is the fact he needs her.
Her innocence makes his darkness seem lighter.
She brightens up his days,and that should be enough.
Finding out the kind of business he is in,shocks her.
Finding out the realization of another dream she had is bought and worthless,is a heavy blow.
Finding out the one friend she thought she had in the family isn’t a friend,makes her mad.
Finding out the truth about the italian deal he’s made……thát is the limit!
I am glad she made the decision she did,even though it breaks her heart.
Choosing to defy him in that way…..
And i want to smack that heartless bastard for what he did to her!
How the hell am i going to survive until September?????
And yep the Italian deal was exactly what I thought it was excuse me while I take a moment to internally dissect Maxime inch by delicious inch what a complete an utter toss-bag.
Poor poor Zoe she’s certainly been put through the emotional ringer by him.
His actions here actually defy all sense of compassion and empathy.
It’s like he can’t understand why she would even be upset and even seems to think she’ll get over it with time: no chance their sunshine, talk about needing a big reality check.
Maxime’s constant manipulations and blase attitude towards a woman that has shown him nothing but love and regard well he deserves to lose her.
I hope he chokes on his regret and I for one will be watching gleefully with pure delight at all the grovelling he will have to perform to maybe win Zoe’s affections back.
That aside this kept my attention throughout and I was definitely invested in the unfolding drama.
This was also excellently written full of passion and heat and even when I was hating Maxime which was a lot of the time let me tell you.
I was also hoping he’d have an epiphany and realise just what he held in the palm of his hand: for an intelligent bloke he wasn’t half dense at times sigh.
Zoe well I just wanted her to make a stand so I was cheering her on from the sidelines when she finally decided enough was enough.
This ended leaving me wanting more and I am going to be on absolute pins waiting for the final piece of this story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Diamonds in the rough (Diamonds are forever trilogy #2).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
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Oh my god! I did not expected this turn of events. I’m not sure if to love Máxime are what I should feel for him. But I can say right now is that we definitely need the next part I cannot wait to know what reaction will Máxime have over what Zoe has done. I’m so excited and anxious to get to their conclusion will they have their happy ending or what will become of them!?
Content Rating: 18+
Genre: Dark Romance
Published: July 14, 2020, by Charmain Pauls
How is it possible that Diamonds in the Rough (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy #2) is even better than the first book? More profound deception, more lies, bigger betrayals, and the relationship between Zoe and Maxime gets even more complicated. As usual, Pauls’ writing is superb; she pulls you into Zoe and Maxime’s world with her intensity and detail until this crazy world fades away. I never thought I would say this, but even though the book ends with a cliff hanger, it was pure perfection, and I don’t think that Ms. Pauls could have written it any better.
Over the next thirty months, Maxime continues to control and manipulate Zoe, and she remains his prisoner. But in this book, he doesn’t just manipulate her body, but somehow manages to manipulate and capture her heart.
“The bitterness of being forever unloved and eternally lonely will chip away at my heart until nothing but hard, polished hate is left. I hate him as much as I love him, but I hate myself more for loving him.”
All Zoe has ever wanted is to be love. As you read this book, Zoe’s emotional pain is palpable. My heart and soul ached for her. Even though Zoe has accepted her fate, she is not weak. She is far from a vulnerable heroine; she loves with all her heart and is at times forgiving to a fault.
However, don’t be fooled by Zoe. Never forget she is a survivor and she will surprise you! And she certainly surprises Maxime. Oh, did you want me to tell you how she surprises him? Sorry, that is not going to happen, no spoilers in my reviews.
“We’re diamonds in the rough, cutting our edges together. I no longer want to leave. I want to try, because maybe, just maybe, there are ways to survive Maxime, and maybe I don’t have to do it alone.”
Maxime is a dark, cunning manipulator with a massive helping of danger; he is pure mafia– hard and unyielding. But I was not able to hate him—quite the opposite. I was rooting for him and hoping that Zoe will help him be a better man, and in some little ways, Zoe has done that, but the darkness continues to call to him, and he fully embraces it.
“She’s the light to my hell, the hope to my infernal darkness. Men like me are born dark. We inherit it from our fathers and pass it on to our sons. She’s the only brightness I’ll ever have in my life…”
Maxime has given her snippets of her desires, but that all comes with her unconditional surrender to him. The man has some serious control and trust issues. All Zoe wants is for Maxime to love her, but he believes he is incapable of loving anyone. How wrong he is, he loves her; he doesn’t realize it yet, and neither does Zoe. My feelings ranged from loving Max one page and then wanting to slap him on the next page. Maxime is truly a tortured soul.
Diamonds in the Rough should come with a warning label: Danger, you are about to lose your mind in a world swirling in darkness, and the hottest most passionate romance– that you will not be able to put down. I devoured this book in one sitting, and it left me breathless and wanting more. Ms. Pauls’ writing has a way about it that puts you in the mind of her characters. You feel their love, their pain, their heartache, but also their hope.
The Diamonds are Forever Trilogy is not to be missed. The first one, Diamonds in the Dust, can be read NOW. The second book, Diamonds in the Rough, will be available on July 14, 2020. The third book, Diamonds are Forever, will be available September 15, 2020. I highly recommend this series if you like a dark antihero and a beautiful, resilient heroine wrapped up in a stunning sexy package.
* Please note the quotes in my review are subject to change once the book is published. *
** I kindly received Diamonds in the Rough from Charmain Pauls. I was not, asked, or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. I have voluntarily read this book, and this review is my honest opinion. **
I am anxiously waiting for the rest of the story. Cannot wait for the next book. Charmaine Pauls hits it out of the ball park once again!
6* Heart Stopping Stars
I loved and raved about Diamonds in the Dust, the first book in the Trilogy but the second book was even more thrilling and twisted. I devoured it in one sitting because the further you got into the crazy story of Zoe and Maxime, the more desperate you are for answers!
Maxime continues to control and make Zoe dependent on him. She is still his prisoner and he has managed to worm his way into her heart but unfortunately the same cannot be said for Maxime as he believes that he is incapable of love. All he is capable of is caring for her financially and making sure she is in his bed every night where their chemistry is undeniably sexy.
This second instalment is full of lies, trust issues and betrayal. My heart broke for Zoe and I was holding my breathe for her to unleash her strength and make the right decisions. I did not foresee the surprise that will hit so deep that you keep praying that the book will not end but indeed it does, and the cliff-hanger will have you losing patience and begging Charmaine to release the third and final book as soon as possible!
I am loving this series and the authors writing is flawless and addictive.
4.5 heart broken stars!!
This is book two in the “Diamonds are Forever” trilogy. It can not be read as a stand alone and ends in a cliffhanger. It’s not a cliffy that drives you crazy. Like the last book it ends in a good spot.
This book was so good. Once again I found myself rooting for Maxime, hoping he could put those feelings into words. Hoping he could be a better man because I do not care what he says, he has loved that girl from the very beginning. Maxime and Zoe are perfect together. But circumstances keep fighting against them.
The end of the book had me sick. Made my heart ache. I don’t even know how to feel right now. The last 20 percent of the book I wanted to be sick. I had in my head things were going to be different but boy was I wrong.
Zoe is a beautiful woman who can adapt like nobody business but this is hard for even me to watch. I love the bad guy but to keep getting your heart broken is just torture. But now I am super excited for book three. Please be redeeming or make sure there is sweet revenge.
I read this book in one sitting. This series draws you in. Trust and believe this is not a happy ever after type book but true mafia. True bad man you are gonna fall in love with. Well, more like hate to love.
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
Diamonds in the Rough
Diamonds are Forever, Book 2
By: Charmaine Pauls
Narrated by: Adara Stevens, Lee Turner Smith
Charmaine Pauls is a master at keeping me in suspense and making me want more! After Diamonds in the Dust, the first in the Diamonds are Forever trilogy, I couldn’t wait to see where Maxime and Zoe go next. This does not stand alone, so make sure you listen in order, as this picks up right where we left off. And Pauls has me pulled in again, only this one for me was much more psychological. We think they will somehow find a way to be happy together, but the twists and turns at each corner just weave a deeper web that wreaks havoc! Maxime may not be the person we think, then again, maybe he is! I love Zoe though, she is refreshingly independent and will do what she needs to, keeping her heart and mind in tact. This one leaves us intrigued, wondering and with a cliffhanger, so make sure to have book 3, Diamonds are Forever queued up and ready to go!
Adara Stevens and Lee Turner Smith continue their amazing narration. Their voices fit the characters perfectly. They understand the minds of these two and you can hear it reflected in their voices. I am loving their performance and am putting the next book on now!
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My heart is pounding. My hands are shaking. I’m sweaty. My stomach is in knots. There is no way I am doing anything today until I finish the next book. I want to hug Zoe and kick Max in the balls. He better grovel. BIG.
Added after finishing the trilogy: This book was 100% more intense than the first book. I read it in one day. I’m so glad I didn’t discover these books until the whole trilogy had been released. I’m not sure I would have survived the wait.
This is the 2nd book in this amazing trilogy, and what an emotional roller coaster journey this story is. Zoe is in love with her kidnapper, and Maxime believes that he is incapable of love. I felt like smashing Maxime over the head in this story, as his constant manipulations and attitude continue, and he cannot comprehend why Zoe would be upset by his actions. Zoe is feeling increasingly lonely as she is shunned by his family and has no friends. This is a well written story which is dark, intense, raw, gritty, action packed, and filled with angst, drama, betrayal, and is a riveting and captivating page turner. I recommend for all, and I cannot wait for the conclusion.
The anti-hero you love to hate!
This is book two of Zoe and Maxime’s story and it spans over a year. After taking the plunge from the cliff Zoe didn’t die and she continues reluctantly as Maxime’s mistress; she doesn’t have much of a choice. As long as she behaves Maxime treats her ok, and even when a chance presents itself, Zoe is unable to really hurt Maxime, since she has fallen in love with her captor, a feeling that goes unrequited as Maxime’s heart is encased in ice. But he does see her and he knows her dreams and desires and in his own controlling way he tries to make at least one of them come true. But Zoe has to fight all the time to hold on to her inner self and not to lose herself in the illusion of the chance of having another type of relationship with Maxime.
But then Maxime commits a betrayal so vast and deep that it threatens to destroy Zoe and the secret hope she harbored forever. So she finally plans to escape Maxime’s clutches since she cannot go on in the way Maxime planned for her.
Although there were some indications and clues smattered throughout the story so far, I was still blindsided by what Maxime did, and by his gigantic narcissism for not realizing what his decision would do to Zoe…
I do hope he suffers just a tiny amount of the pain he inflicted on Zoe and that he has to spend most of the third book groveling for a chance to be forgiven, now that Zoe is no longer under his control!
That being said, I love an anti-hero who makes you want to kill him, or at least see him suffer terribly, and since I think Zoe is much too good-hearted and nice to give him what he deserves (not because she is weak, but because she loves him), I want to do it for her! Oh, this book had me stirred up in all the best ways! Charmaine Pauls is a master at creating and sustaining this type of tension that hovers between violence and love! I wish I had the third book in my hands already!
4 and 1/2 stars
So once again, I was sucked into this story and discarded everything so I could devour this book. For part of the story, I was slightly miffed with Zoe’s behaviour. When she learns time and time again that Maxime has been keeping secrets and, worse, forcing people to accept her, I thought Zoe would do more. Like pitch a fit, at the very least, and not bend to his will. In this way, she still believes in the fantasy that somehow things will be okay. It disappointed me as I hoped that she would use her strong spirit to fight against him. Now Maxime. Boy was he really peeing me off. He uses Zoe’s physical attraction to him to win fights and force her obedience. But worse was his behaviour when a certain secret comes out. That’s when I really felt my dislike reach new heights. The extent of his manipulation runs deep. There was discussion with Maxime and his inability to love. While this might be the case, how can he keep Zoe knowing this and the dreams she has? While he might provide her with everything she needs, he is selfish in his desires. Even though there were moments that irked me, the last portion of the story had me cheering. I finally got to see Zoe’s fierce spirit once more and her refusal to go against her morals. I cannot wait to see what happens next and what Maxime does. One thing I can say, I’m glad that Zoe finally understood her brother’s words and embraced what he told her as a child. Thank goodness the next book release isn’t too far away because I need more.
Diamonds in the Rough by Charmaine Pauls
5+++++++ STARS is not enough for this great read !!
The stars for this book are out of the galaxy & solar system combined !! I say this because the series is by far in my top choices for “top reads” for 2020. This author has done an amazing job setting the storyline up for Book #3 in the series coming mid September. This book is Book #2 of the Diamonds Are Forever Trilogy
This is Book #2 & I highly recommend that you read Diamonds in the Dust first ( Book#1 ) – not only is it also a 5 star +++ read but sets the stage for this one. Please note this book does also end in a cliffhanger.
I would just like to start by saying Ms Pauls as an author has such a way of evoking “true” emotion – not only in her character development – but within the entire storyline – something you will identify with as you read … this book was no exception.
Max’s character is beyond flawed – I am not even sure if that is the best way to describe him but it’s like he has no emotional filter. He wants Zoe – wants to control Zoe but has no real regards for her feelings … His actions will seem to give you whiplash as one minute he can be tender, giving but I wouldn’t say romantic though because there is always a reason / ulterior motive behind his actions but not based on love.
Zoe is Max’s captive – his mistress but with the threat of great harm to her brother , Damon , constantly being held over her head. She is someone that does not know her strength but does push herself to become more resilient in Book 2. I’m so glad for that because despite every situation she finds herself in ( Max’s disproving & actually cruel family members – mafia / violence , being in a situation where someone cannot return her love & has no idea what love even is with maybe the ultimate deception being unaware Max is already committed in an arranged marriage ) her choice is to break free of her pain & push on.
I could not put this book down & to be perfectly honest the last Chapter I could not scroll fast enough on my EReader to see how this book would end. All I will say so as not to give away any “spoilers” pertaining to the plot is someone has some major groveling to do in Book #3 & it’s not Zoe !!!
I have already re-read this book twice – it’s that amazing !!
I highly recommend this book , series & author !!!
Charmaine Pauls – Diamonds in the Rough (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy 2)
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I would like to thank both the author and pr company for the chance to arc this book. I appreciate the opportunity, and value the authors consideration to summarise the previous book. You cant imagine how helpful it is.
Diamonds in the Rough is the second installment in the Diamond Magnate series. It continues where we left off in the first book. And what an epic journey we face. I’m in awe of Charmaines writing and world development. She is vastly becoming one of my die hard authors. I devoured this book in one sitting. It was unputdownable and I cant recommend this series enough!
Maxime is a juxtaposition. His actions were two sided. His kindness and consideration were to keep Zoe occupied but also to ensure her happiness. Protective of his property, his affection for the heroine is the nearest thing to love he has ever experienced. His behaviour towards Zoe forever gave me whiplash. The therapy session made me see everything in a new light. For a sociopath, his lack of empathy and his thoughtful actions reiterated his complexity. His view on this diagnosis is interesting and can clearly see how the heroine draws him but also intrigues him. We gained a better insight into Maximes motives and his mafia organisation, his genetic make up and family. Yet I feel like weve only seen a thin layer of how cruel he can actually be. It leaves the reader with many questions. Will he overcome his familial expectations. Can he learn to love.
Fighting between her heart and her self worth Zoes situation becomes bearable with her ambitions and dreams of love and fairytale romance. She grows in strength, her courage and bravery was shown throughout. Never giving up even when criticised about her abilities and taste in fashion. Her status in question and reputation in tatters, with loneliness as her only companion, she is still determined and open to happiness and making the most of her circumstance. As the story jumped several times we saw depth in their relationship. Her inner war with hope, I felt she stopped resisting because she doesnt have much of a family or life to go back to. I was shocked by the plot and salute her moral integrity. Charmaine made Zoes character relatable to the reader and drew out protective and sympathetic emotions towards her, without making her feel pathetic and annoying. She reaches breaking point at the end of the book which leads us to think how will she cope with her new found freedom, and is she ready to face her brother.
Diamond in the Rough ends in a cliff-hanger. Im completely torn. This couple is everything. Their relationship is complicated, beautiful and soulshattering. If you like selfish and heartless heros and optimistic down trodden heroines, you’ll love their hopeless journey to… forever. Be prepared for a rough and bumpy ride. I need to get my hands on the next book.
COMING SOON:
The Diamonds are Forever series consists of 3 books. Continue Zoe and Maxime’s story in:
Book 3: Diamonds are Forever (15 September 2020)
Distance makes the heart grow fonder. I hope to see a change in the heros character. Theres no knowing how he will react in the series finale. I cant wait to finally meet the heroines brother, Damian. Will the heroine move on? The cynic in me believes the rose tea plays a part in her pliable behaviour. I wouldn’t put it past Maxime. Most of all, I’m ready to find more answers and a well earnt happily ever after. All I can envision is that lonely dress still in the closet… another example of the heroines innocent, positive outlook. I predict he will be so enraged in the next book that he marries her…in that dress! Bind them for eternity.
Find out why I gave the first book in the series 5 stars. Diamonds in the Dust
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Zoe has been settling into life as Maxime’s mistress. But she wants more from him than just sex, as amazing as it is, she wants affection, she wants love. Will Maxime give it to her, even just a little?
Well…not if the latest twist in their rocky, dark relationship is any indication. So Zoe makes up her mind that she’s as done with him as she can be in her captive situation. And she starts making plans, solid plans that have nothing to do with the man who ripped her heart to shreds, and everything to do with herself and making her situation livable. Let’s hope she succeeds because she deserves to be free, to be happy, and it’s completely apparent that Maxime does not truly give a flying fuck about what Zoe needs or wants.
Damn, talk about an anti-hero, I’d go as far as saying Maxime’s a true villain in this story. Not his brother, not his mean family, just Maxime. Zoe is far too good, too kind for this dark man who has done nothing to deserve her love. Of course there was a cliffhanger, and now I’m on pins and needles, waiting for the conclusion of this dark, angsty and steamy series!
4.5 Brilliant Stars!!
Diamonds in the Rough is Book 2 of the Diamonds are Forever trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger, book one must be read before getting into this story. Believe me, you’re going to love this amazing trilogy!!
Maxime and Zoe’s journey picks up right where book one left off, with the same intensity, excitement, and perfect pacing. The story is masterfully crafted, and flowed beautifully. The characters are fascinating, intriguing, and believable.
The chemistry, and connection between Zoe and Maxine is off the charts, and very palpable, although their relationship and strong bond will be tested. Oh, and get ready, because here we get another cliffhanger, but the wait will be worth it when the final installment comes out.
All in all, this is a real page turner at its best, that will keep you hooked right from the start! Author Charmaine Pauls never disappoints!
Diamonds in the Rough: A Diamond Magnate Novel (Diamonds are Forever Book 2)- Charmaine Pauls
This second book in the series evoked even more emotional angst , highs and lows,than the first book. The story of Maxine and Zoe continues with Max doing everything he can to make Zoe happy as “his” female.A big problem is his inability to actually love anyone (although I believe he does), and his loyalty to “The Family” and what he believes are his “ responsibilities”.
Zoe continues to fall deeper for this anti-hero kidnapper that has gone way past Stockholm syndrome. I applauded her attempts to assert herself around his family and staff. Her determination to succeed at a fashion design school and even reaching out for friendship.
The story was totally engrossing and I developed the same love/hate feelings for Max. The final twist though just gutted me and I was glad she just didn’t go along with Max’s betrayal. Another cliffhanger ending that left me breathless and waiting impatiently for Book 3.
At the end, I screamed “Russell is Back” lol.
This book had me going through a hundred emotions per minute. I was angry, happy, sad, pissed up, fed up all at the same time. But like the great writer she is, Charmaine Pauls keeps you reading, even when you don’t want to.
The characters are superbly written. The story keeps you wanting for more. I cannot wait for the next book!
Humiliation. Pain. Love. Betrayal. To feel all these emotions, and display the inner strength that our Zoe Hart does is mind blowing! I come to the end of this book unable to breathe with a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes.
Diamonds in the Rough is the second book in the Diamonds are Forever Trilogy. It continues the story of Maxime and Zoe as they live in France in Maxime’s home. This story spans over a year or more and really focuses on Zoe’s developing feelings for Maxime and the role she is forced to play in his life. Zoe struggles with her non-existent freedom, inadequacies in her personal and professional life and betrayal after betrayal from the few people she trusts. She broke my heart and I felt so deeply for her and her situation. This story has a ton of passionate scenes and major angst. Maxime has yet to acknowledge the depth of his feelings towards Zoe and her forced submission as his mistress is tearing their hearts and lives apart. It was sad, sweet, angsty and exciting. I really enjoyed reading this book and I can’t wait for the conclusion, it ends in a pretty big cliffhanger.
Disclosures: I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.Diamonds in the Rough: A Deceptive Dark Romance with a Twist! (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy: A Dark Mafia Romance Book 2)