B. Sobjakken returns with Corrupted Memories, the second book in the Made Men of Manhattan series, featuring Sebastian and Gianna. Sebastian was one of the side characters in Rian and Isabelle's story, and he was somewhat of a morally gray character who I thought was interesting. In this latest installment, readers are able to explore his intense obsession for the woman he was never able to forget. I enjoyed Sebastian and Gianna's relationship because it was full of animosity, uncertainty, longing, and tension. We're given a few glimpses of their past together, which were all really sweet and romantic, until she ran away from him that one night and never came back. Since then, he did everything he could to find and chase her. It's clear that Sebastian and Gianna had some deep communication issues. I was frustrated with their dramatics because she should have communicated with him instead of making assumptions, while he was deluding himself into thinking that he was never in love with her.“Gianna is my obsession. I can’t get her out of my mind. They aren’t healthy or loving thoughts. My body physically burns for her. It craves her to survive, but I know it isn’t love. I don’t know what it is, but it’s not that.”
In the end, I enjoyed this one and was satisfied with Sebastian and Gianna's relationship. The story did get a bit repetitive in the later half since Gianna kept asking Sebastian to confirm his feelings for her. He never told Gianna that he loved her, which played a central role in her insecurities and was one of the reasons why she ran away from him. The whole Jeremy situation was awkward and weird, so I wasn't a fan of it. At least their love scenes were incredibly spicy. I did wish there was more to their relationship since it felt more physical than emotional at times. They entered in a “relationship contract,” but Sebastian was unwilling to let Gianna go so the threats were unnecessary. The situation between the Irish and Italians are ramping up. It also looks like we might be getting books for Luca as well as Gio and Matt who are Gianna’s brothers. Fans of mafia romance and dark romance will certainly enjoy this book—especially if you like heroes who are possessive and obsessive with their heroines.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author for an honest review*
Rating: ★★★★☆
