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Cruel Throne
he first time I met Lorenzo Amante, he walked onto my family estate as the help.
He was everything I didn’t know I needed.
Sweet. Passionate. And most importantly, mine.
But my parents decided he was beneath me and made sure we didn’t survive the summer.
The next time I saw him, he wasn’t a boy anymore.
He was ruthless. Untouchable.
The devil that burned my parents’ empire to the ground.
He destroyed everything they built.
Everything…except me.
Now I’m forced into a marriage with the boy I once loved—and should now hate.
Lorenzo Amante is no longer sweet.
He is vengeance and death.
A man built from betrayal. A monster with one goal…
Revenge.
He was everything I didn’t know I needed.
Sweet. Passionate. And most importantly, mine.
But my parents decided he was beneath me and made sure we didn’t survive the summer.
The next time I saw him, he wasn’t a boy anymore.
He was ruthless. Untouchable.
The devil that burned my parents’ empire to the ground.
He destroyed everything they built.
Everything…except me.
Now I’m forced into a marriage with the boy I once loved—and should now hate.
Lorenzo Amante is no longer sweet.
He is vengeance and death.
A man built from betrayal. A monster with one goal…
Revenge.
503 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2026
About the author
Ava Harrison
44 books3,712 followersAva Harrison is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Review of advance copy
Boring as fuck. Tries hard to be profound and like Wuthering Heights but is a cheap cheap imitation. There is no real angst, no character development, and there is a lack of plot. Neither truly do anything hurtful to each other, it's just "lets be dramatic, to be dramatic". Just two characters that are one dimensional and stereotypes- the rich girl and the poor boy. The author does not develop the characters further. There is a time gap and the author does not even use that to show character development. Would not recommend.
March 7, 2026
#Review: *Cruel Throne* - Ava Harrison - ARC [18+]
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Everything has started as a young, innocent and beautiful love story, but what they had was something totally forbidden because of Lorenzo's place in the Danforth family estate, where he was a simple worker. Unfortunately, Lorenzo and Victoria's love story was doomed even from the start and their split left them both with a broken heart.
Over the years Lorenzo has gathered inside him so much loathing, which transformed him into a cruel, cold man. And he was determined to get his revenge in a different kind of way, which included the girl who broke his heart, Victoria. But can she somehow reach out into Lorenzo's soul and revive that warm heart he once had?
I blindly jumped into this book, just hoping that it will be a good story. And I'm so glad I did, because it was simply AMAZING!! It was so beautifully built, following multiple stages of Lorenzo and Victoria's love story and all the complications that appeared along the way. This was filled with so much angst and so much tension, which was the best thing about this story - that constant uncertainty between Lorenzo and Victoria. I loooved them so much, even if he changed sooo much over the years. I hated Victoria's parents for everything they've done and how careless they were with her, being more interested in their own good, than the happiness of their own daughter. I liked that surprise element of a forced marriage, one which made things really captivating, because of that mixed feelings they both had in their hearts.
I'm so in love with this book, discovering that I really enjoy this types of stories🥰. Ava has done such an incredible job with the plot, these unbelievable characters and their troubled relationship. If you're a fan of darker romance stories, than you should definitely pick this one up. You won't regret it! But please be careful on the triggers!
Super grateful for being accepted by Ava and her team to receive this stunning e-ARC.💖 Thank you sooo much for this!🩵 I completely adoooored it and I couldn't get enough of it🥰.
✨Tropes
▫️Revenge
▫️Mafia Romance
▫️Second Chance
▫️Dark Romance
▫️Morally Grey Hero
▫️Forced Marriage
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Bad Boy / Good Girl
▫️Boss's Daughter/ Help
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Everything has started as a young, innocent and beautiful love story, but what they had was something totally forbidden because of Lorenzo's place in the Danforth family estate, where he was a simple worker. Unfortunately, Lorenzo and Victoria's love story was doomed even from the start and their split left them both with a broken heart.
Over the years Lorenzo has gathered inside him so much loathing, which transformed him into a cruel, cold man. And he was determined to get his revenge in a different kind of way, which included the girl who broke his heart, Victoria. But can she somehow reach out into Lorenzo's soul and revive that warm heart he once had?
I blindly jumped into this book, just hoping that it will be a good story. And I'm so glad I did, because it was simply AMAZING!! It was so beautifully built, following multiple stages of Lorenzo and Victoria's love story and all the complications that appeared along the way. This was filled with so much angst and so much tension, which was the best thing about this story - that constant uncertainty between Lorenzo and Victoria. I loooved them so much, even if he changed sooo much over the years. I hated Victoria's parents for everything they've done and how careless they were with her, being more interested in their own good, than the happiness of their own daughter. I liked that surprise element of a forced marriage, one which made things really captivating, because of that mixed feelings they both had in their hearts.
I'm so in love with this book, discovering that I really enjoy this types of stories🥰. Ava has done such an incredible job with the plot, these unbelievable characters and their troubled relationship. If you're a fan of darker romance stories, than you should definitely pick this one up. You won't regret it! But please be careful on the triggers!
Super grateful for being accepted by Ava and her team to receive this stunning e-ARC.💖 Thank you sooo much for this!🩵 I completely adoooored it and I couldn't get enough of it🥰.
✨Tropes
▫️Revenge
▫️Mafia Romance
▫️Second Chance
▫️Dark Romance
▫️Morally Grey Hero
▫️Forced Marriage
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Opposites Attract
▫️Bad Boy / Good Girl
▫️Boss's Daughter/ Help
February 27, 2026
This was such an disappointing read for me..
You say mafia romance? well the romance part just sucked ...where is the chemistry and bonding? from the start the mmc and fmc were attracted to each other and then thinking of kissing each other and then kissing each other and then having sex and then the whole breakup drama took place, fast forward five years mmc plans revenge, but i was so done with the whole fmc asking mmc, "why are you doing this?" that i just wanted to smash her head. again the mmc and fmc are united after 5 years so there should be some you know tension between the characters, lets just say nor could i feel it or read it. lastly whats up with the characters? why were they so bland? no future goals, so pet peeves, no changes after 5 years? the only character i liked was rafe, he was interesting one but in the end even he died so...............just why?
now comes mafia plot...........its mafia plot heavy which i dont mind but the again if the mafia plot is boring then sure...........i mind alot, i also don't like lots and lots of internal dialogue, i repeat lots and lots of internal dialogue which is repetitive and boring and really bad execution is what i should be saying.
You say mafia romance? well the romance part just sucked ...where is the chemistry and bonding? from the start the mmc and fmc were attracted to each other and then thinking of kissing each other and then kissing each other and then having sex and then the whole breakup drama took place, fast forward five years mmc plans revenge, but i was so done with the whole fmc asking mmc, "why are you doing this?" that i just wanted to smash her head. again the mmc and fmc are united after 5 years so there should be some you know tension between the characters, lets just say nor could i feel it or read it. lastly whats up with the characters? why were they so bland? no future goals, so pet peeves, no changes after 5 years? the only character i liked was rafe, he was interesting one but in the end even he died so...............just why?
now comes mafia plot...........its mafia plot heavy which i dont mind but the again if the mafia plot is boring then sure...........i mind alot, i also don't like lots and lots of internal dialogue, i repeat lots and lots of internal dialogue which is repetitive and boring and really bad execution is what i should be saying.
February 25, 2026
Lorenzo and Victoria's romance is absolutely stunning and completely captivating. You best be prepared before diving in because this is an intense roller coaster ride filled with exquisite tension, taut drama, tantalizing twists, raw feelings and rich emotions. Got and had me completely consumed and put my poor heart through the wringer.
March 3, 2026
Working On Review
April 6, 2026
So happy to be back in this world… and Lorenzo’s story did not disappoint.
We’re taken back to his childhood, where his mother tries to shield him from his father’s dark empire. It’s during this time he meets Victoria-forbidden, unexpected, and completely perfect for him.
What starts as a quiet, innocent bond grows into a powerful first love. But their world isn’t built for happy endings. Victoria’s controlling family tears them apart, and Lorenzo is pulled back into the life he was never meant to escape forced to take his place in his family’s ruthless legacy.
This story delivers soulmate-level love, heartbreak, and the darkness we crave in a mafia romance. Intense, emotional, and impossible to put down.
We’re taken back to his childhood, where his mother tries to shield him from his father’s dark empire. It’s during this time he meets Victoria-forbidden, unexpected, and completely perfect for him.
What starts as a quiet, innocent bond grows into a powerful first love. But their world isn’t built for happy endings. Victoria’s controlling family tears them apart, and Lorenzo is pulled back into the life he was never meant to escape forced to take his place in his family’s ruthless legacy.
This story delivers soulmate-level love, heartbreak, and the darkness we crave in a mafia romance. Intense, emotional, and impossible to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've missed this world, and to be brought back into it with Lorenzo's villain origin story is the best thing ever. After reading all the books in the Corrupt Empire series I never would have guessed Lorenzo's story would go this way. He's the psychopath that you think is just naturally that way. The reason why is so much deeper and meaningful. Ava Harrison just flipped the perspective of him completely and I'm not mad at it at all. This book is the one time a lack of communication works in their favor a bit, because with it, this would have been a different story. To read this book and understand it fully it would be important to read the other books in the series. Otherwise it won't hit quite as hard if you don't. I loved this book and am so happy we got it.
February 26, 2026
Amazon
Victoria's life has always been controlled by her Mafia family. Everything was arranged, even her marriage. Unfortunately for them (her too?) someone's set on revenge, and he swoops in and marries her instead. Now her life is truly out of her control, and she'll have to hope Lorenzo will show some mercy...
I never would have imagined this would be Lorenzo's backstory. Throughout the Corrupt Empire series, I've wondered about him - his hardened nature had to have come from somewhere, but the actual reason for it all is heartbreaking. The tension between the two first loves was made even more intense by the world they live in, and of course the past that lay between them. I've missed this Mafia world of Ava's, and it was good being back here, especially for Lorenzo's villain origin story. He and Victoria broke my heart many times throughout their second chance story, but by the time it ended, I couldn't have been happier that they got their well deserved happiness.
ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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April 9, 2026
Started out good. Victoria and Lorenzo are teenagers, she's the rich girl and he is the poor boy, "the help". It would have been better if they had the entire summer to fall in love, but they get maybe 4 weeks, and half that they barely talk. Then they are ripped away from each other.
Then we skip 5 years ahead. Lorenzo found his family, who are actually rich, and he comes back for revenge on those who wronged him, namely Victoria and her parents.
The main plot focuses on miscommunication. Lorenzo was led to believe Victoria chose to leave him. He never got her letter, and her mom gave him a forged one. Victoria has many opportunities to clear it up, but doesn't. The misconception should have been cleared up easily, but then there wouldn't be a book. The story drags this on for almost 90% of the book. Then they kiss, talk, and whoosh, she stays hidden for 13 years.
The book was way too long, sould have been shorter. Also the time jump at the end, 13 years. Seriously!? She hid that long? Rafe dying was pointless, he was the best character. And the book rushed ahead and wrapped up too quickly after that. Then "the boys", other friends are mentioned in the last chapter. Other than the cousin, the rest seem like a late point add in so the author can write more spinoff books.
It's a mafia book, but most the people he killed was for personal reasons. I never fully understood why his uncle would kill him if he found out about Victoria? And the spice was kinda lame. Would not recommend, pick a different book.
Then we skip 5 years ahead. Lorenzo found his family, who are actually rich, and he comes back for revenge on those who wronged him, namely Victoria and her parents.
The main plot focuses on miscommunication. Lorenzo was led to believe Victoria chose to leave him. He never got her letter, and her mom gave him a forged one. Victoria has many opportunities to clear it up, but doesn't. The misconception should have been cleared up easily, but then there wouldn't be a book. The story drags this on for almost 90% of the book. Then they kiss, talk, and whoosh, she stays hidden for 13 years.
The book was way too long, sould have been shorter. Also the time jump at the end, 13 years. Seriously!? She hid that long? Rafe dying was pointless, he was the best character. And the book rushed ahead and wrapped up too quickly after that. Then "the boys", other friends are mentioned in the last chapter. Other than the cousin, the rest seem like a late point add in so the author can write more spinoff books.
It's a mafia book, but most the people he killed was for personal reasons. I never fully understood why his uncle would kill him if he found out about Victoria? And the spice was kinda lame. Would not recommend, pick a different book.
May 13, 2026
I wish I would have listened to the reviews. This book was B.O.R.I.N.G and frankly, didn’t make much sense at the end.
(Possible spoilers ahead)
It had a good setup. Teenagers meet. H is the poor boy, along with his mom, who works for the rich h’s family. H/h fall in love, and their families break them apart.
Due to some type of major windfall, H finds out his “unknown” dad is actually mafia. For 5 years, he makes a name for himself. He has revenge on his mind.
He basically forced h to marry him, then keeps her prisoner. If these two would have talked
h- “hey, I didn’t just leave you. I was forced to go AND I didn’t write you that shitty letter, my mom did”
Then this whole thing could have been wrapped up in two chapters. 😩 The fact that she never felt the need to enlighten him every time he mentions “you just left”
It was so odd.
Anyway, they finally move to ILY around 80%. They have some very tame smex. She’s kidnapped, but H saves her in time. Then they found out there is a hit list put out on her.
So 🥴🥴🥴 for 13 years she stays a prisoner locked up from the outside world while he removes all the assassins…….she stays a secret from everybody. Literally nobody knows she exists. She already had a kid and was pregnant with another one. H finally kills the last one and informs all his mafia buddies he’s married.
Ridiculous.
(Possible spoilers ahead)
It had a good setup. Teenagers meet. H is the poor boy, along with his mom, who works for the rich h’s family. H/h fall in love, and their families break them apart.
Due to some type of major windfall, H finds out his “unknown” dad is actually mafia. For 5 years, he makes a name for himself. He has revenge on his mind.
He basically forced h to marry him, then keeps her prisoner. If these two would have talked
h- “hey, I didn’t just leave you. I was forced to go AND I didn’t write you that shitty letter, my mom did”
Then this whole thing could have been wrapped up in two chapters. 😩 The fact that she never felt the need to enlighten him every time he mentions “you just left”
It was so odd.
Anyway, they finally move to ILY around 80%. They have some very tame smex. She’s kidnapped, but H saves her in time. Then they found out there is a hit list put out on her.
So 🥴🥴🥴 for 13 years she stays a prisoner locked up from the outside world while he removes all the assassins…….she stays a secret from everybody. Literally nobody knows she exists. She already had a kid and was pregnant with another one. H finally kills the last one and informs all his mafia buddies he’s married.
Ridiculous.
March 3, 2026
what a read…. pebbles
Ava Harrison has once again added to the 5Stars in this series of stand-alone Mafia heroes and their ladies… the loves of their life they did not see coming. And she includes the men her readers have come to love. Lorenzo is a young teenager being raised by a single mother. He meets the daughter of the owners of the estate he and his mom have landed at for work. Victoria is a “normal” and yet not, young girl on the cusp of turning 18. She and Lorenzo strike up a conversation with a friendship, humor, witty dialogue and eventually love comes about. What her parents do along with what his mother doesn’t do… you have to read about it. Lorenzo, who only know his mother, learns that he is part of the Amante Mafia family with whom he is reunited along with his cousin/brother Matteo. Will these two be able to put together the life and love intended for them. Will a forced marriage heal the holes in their souls? And pebbles… those wonderful pebbles. Could not put their story down. Thank you Ms Harrison for another gem. Brilliantly done.
Ava Harrison has once again added to the 5Stars in this series of stand-alone Mafia heroes and their ladies… the loves of their life they did not see coming. And she includes the men her readers have come to love. Lorenzo is a young teenager being raised by a single mother. He meets the daughter of the owners of the estate he and his mom have landed at for work. Victoria is a “normal” and yet not, young girl on the cusp of turning 18. She and Lorenzo strike up a conversation with a friendship, humor, witty dialogue and eventually love comes about. What her parents do along with what his mother doesn’t do… you have to read about it. Lorenzo, who only know his mother, learns that he is part of the Amante Mafia family with whom he is reunited along with his cousin/brother Matteo. Will these two be able to put together the life and love intended for them. Will a forced marriage heal the holes in their souls? And pebbles… those wonderful pebbles. Could not put their story down. Thank you Ms Harrison for another gem. Brilliantly done.
March 14, 2026
Lorenzo and Victoria’s story was to me a Tragic Love Story with a Second Chance !! They might have only known each other for a short time before she was made to leave but when you connect with your soul mate thought books and a boathouse you never know when or if you will ever see your love again or feel alive again !!
Lorenzo became a hardened man fast and he never got over loosing the love of his life but when he finds her again he makes sure he does everything in his power to make her his again and hide her from the rest of the world because his world is the underworld something she is not accustomed to BUT she will adjust .. or not ??
Victoria was always protected to hard by her controlling parents and she didn’t understand why .. so when she finally finds out why she know Lorenzo is the way he is .. can she melt or break down the walls around his heart and maybe just maybe have the life she read about in her love for books ?? Hmmmmm…..
What a surprise also to see the men of the Corrupt Empire !! This book will give you mixed feelings about these characters BUT we all know Ava always brings it all together and LOVE is ALWAYS LOVE !!
Lorenzo became a hardened man fast and he never got over loosing the love of his life but when he finds her again he makes sure he does everything in his power to make her his again and hide her from the rest of the world because his world is the underworld something she is not accustomed to BUT she will adjust .. or not ??
Victoria was always protected to hard by her controlling parents and she didn’t understand why .. so when she finally finds out why she know Lorenzo is the way he is .. can she melt or break down the walls around his heart and maybe just maybe have the life she read about in her love for books ?? Hmmmmm…..
What a surprise also to see the men of the Corrupt Empire !! This book will give you mixed feelings about these characters BUT we all know Ava always brings it all together and LOVE is ALWAYS LOVE !!
February 25, 2026
Cruel Throne beautifully blends second-chance romance with the intense, dangerous world of a mafia family. At its heart, it’s about two people who were once each other’s first love, torn apart by circumstances, only to find their way back years later.
What makes this book so compelling is the emotional depth. The history between the main characters adds layers of tension, longing, and unresolved feelings. Their reunion isn’t simple or easy — it’s filled with past hurt, secrets, and the weight of choices made long ago. That emotional push and pull keeps you invested in every interaction.
The backdrop adds high stakes and constant suspense. Loyalty to family, power struggles, and the threat of danger create an intense atmosphere that contrasts perfectly with the tenderness of their rekindled love. The protective instincts of Loreno and the strength and growth of Victoria make their relationship feel mature and earned.
Overall, this is a gripping second-chance romance filled with passion, drama, decet and heart.
What makes this book so compelling is the emotional depth. The history between the main characters adds layers of tension, longing, and unresolved feelings. Their reunion isn’t simple or easy — it’s filled with past hurt, secrets, and the weight of choices made long ago. That emotional push and pull keeps you invested in every interaction.
The backdrop adds high stakes and constant suspense. Loyalty to family, power struggles, and the threat of danger create an intense atmosphere that contrasts perfectly with the tenderness of their rekindled love. The protective instincts of Loreno and the strength and growth of Victoria make their relationship feel mature and earned.
Overall, this is a gripping second-chance romance filled with passion, drama, decet and heart.
February 25, 2026
I have read quite a few of Ava Harrison’s books, and this one is absolutely no exception when it comes to delivering something unforgettable.
Cruel Throne completely pulled me in from the very beginning and did not let go. It is intense, emotional, and full of tension that keeps building with every chapter. The story of Lorenzo and Victoria is beautifully written, layered, and feels incredibly real. Their connection is not simple or easy, and that is exactly what makes it so compelling.
What I loved most is how much depth there is to both characters. You are not just reading a romance, you are watching two people navigate pain, growth, and everything in between. Every moment feels earned, every emotion hits, and some scenes stay with you long after you finish the book.
I am not going to spoil it for you. Just read it. It is the kind of story that puts your heart through it, but in the best possible way. Emotional, gripping, and impossible to put down. If you enjoy romance that is raw, complex, and full of feeling, this one is absolutely worth reading.
Cruel Throne completely pulled me in from the very beginning and did not let go. It is intense, emotional, and full of tension that keeps building with every chapter. The story of Lorenzo and Victoria is beautifully written, layered, and feels incredibly real. Their connection is not simple or easy, and that is exactly what makes it so compelling.
What I loved most is how much depth there is to both characters. You are not just reading a romance, you are watching two people navigate pain, growth, and everything in between. Every moment feels earned, every emotion hits, and some scenes stay with you long after you finish the book.
I am not going to spoil it for you. Just read it. It is the kind of story that puts your heart through it, but in the best possible way. Emotional, gripping, and impossible to put down. If you enjoy romance that is raw, complex, and full of feeling, this one is absolutely worth reading.
Read
March 28, 2026Cruel Throne by Ava Harrison was an intense and emotional mafia romance that kept me on the edge throughout this whole book.
The story follows Lorenzo and Victoria, who were once in love but were torn apart by their families. When they meet again, everything has changed, and their relationship is full of tension, pain, and unresolved feelings.
I really liked the mix of second chance romance and enemies to lovers. Lorenzo is dark, cold, and driven by revenge, which made it easy to both love and hate him. Victoria, on the other hand, is trying to understand the truth about her past and their connection.
The story starts as a slow burn but quickly becomes very emotional and dramatic. Their chemistry is strong, and you can feel how deep their bond is, even through all the hurt.
Overall, it’s a gripping and angsty read with lots of drama, romance, and intense moments. Maybe not a favourite, but that won’t stop me from enjoying her future work.
Very grateful to the author for my copy, opinions are my own / Arc team review.
The story follows Lorenzo and Victoria, who were once in love but were torn apart by their families. When they meet again, everything has changed, and their relationship is full of tension, pain, and unresolved feelings.
I really liked the mix of second chance romance and enemies to lovers. Lorenzo is dark, cold, and driven by revenge, which made it easy to both love and hate him. Victoria, on the other hand, is trying to understand the truth about her past and their connection.
The story starts as a slow burn but quickly becomes very emotional and dramatic. Their chemistry is strong, and you can feel how deep their bond is, even through all the hurt.
Overall, it’s a gripping and angsty read with lots of drama, romance, and intense moments. Maybe not a favourite, but that won’t stop me from enjoying her future work.
Very grateful to the author for my copy, opinions are my own / Arc team review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Cruel Throne by Ava Harrison and, without exaggeration, it was an emotional roller coaster that left my heart in my throat.
Victoria and Lorenzo’s story feels deeply human and heartbreaking. We get to see Lorenzo’s darker side, understand the weight of his past, and watch both of them confront loss, pain, and the kind of second chances that don’t come easily. Every chapter adds another layer to who they are and why they clash, and fit, so intensely.
What I loved most is that the romance isn’t just about passion or drama. It’s about growth. Victoria and Lorenzo have been through so much that every small step forward between them feels earned, raw, and real. You’re not just watching them fall in love, you’re watching them rebuild themselves.
There are moments that are tender, others that completely wreck you, and a constant tension that keeps you turning the pages. Cruel Throne is intense and emotional, but that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
Victoria and Lorenzo’s story feels deeply human and heartbreaking. We get to see Lorenzo’s darker side, understand the weight of his past, and watch both of them confront loss, pain, and the kind of second chances that don’t come easily. Every chapter adds another layer to who they are and why they clash, and fit, so intensely.
What I loved most is that the romance isn’t just about passion or drama. It’s about growth. Victoria and Lorenzo have been through so much that every small step forward between them feels earned, raw, and real. You’re not just watching them fall in love, you’re watching them rebuild themselves.
There are moments that are tender, others that completely wreck you, and a constant tension that keeps you turning the pages. Cruel Throne is intense and emotional, but that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
February 27, 2026
This book was incredibly disappointing. The entire plot hinges on a single, frustrating miscommunication: he believes she abandoned him, when in reality she was sent away and her mother forged a goodbye letter. Instead of uncovering the truth or having an honest conversation, he chooses to stay angry and dedicate himself to ruining her life.
What makes it worse is how easily the conflict could be resolved. Every time he accuses her of leaving, she has countless opportunities to simply explain that she was forced to go—but she never does. The story drags this misunderstanding out far beyond what feels believable, making the drama feel artificial rather than emotional.
The novel clearly wants to be intense and dramatic, but the conflict feels manufactured and repetitive instead of compelling. I found the plot boring, frustrating, and painfully constructed. Unfortunately, this is not a book I would recommend or continue reading.DNF
What makes it worse is how easily the conflict could be resolved. Every time he accuses her of leaving, she has countless opportunities to simply explain that she was forced to go—but she never does. The story drags this misunderstanding out far beyond what feels believable, making the drama feel artificial rather than emotional.
The novel clearly wants to be intense and dramatic, but the conflict feels manufactured and repetitive instead of compelling. I found the plot boring, frustrating, and painfully constructed. Unfortunately, this is not a book I would recommend or continue reading.DNF
March 6, 2026
𝚆𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚛𝚞𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚞𝚜. 𝚃𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚜𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚞𝚜 𝚒𝚗𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚍.
✨𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨📚
𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞
🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️ (5/5)
🌶️🌶️💫 (2.5/5)
𝚆𝚑𝚢 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔…
•mafia romance
•revenge
•rich/poor
•forced marriage
•boss’s daughter/help
•second chance
———•———•———•———
Wowzer! This one was phenomenal!! This story pulled me into a dark, intoxicating world where love and vengeance collide.
The mafia romance element was intense and gripping, layered perfectly with a revenge plot that kept the tension razor-sharp.
I loved the complexity of the her being the rich girl in a cage while he was the help with no future. That dynamic — the hierarchy, the secrets, the history worked beautifully.
Forced marriage and proximity trope? Executed flawlessly. What starts as obligation slowly unravels into something raw and undeniable. And the second chance romance woven through it all made the emotional payoff even sweeter. The way Lorenzo was just farrel for Victoria. You could feel the unresolved hurt, the lingering longing, and the undeniable chemistry in every scene.
Dark, dramatic, and emotionally powerful — this one completely owned me. 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 Ava for allowing me the early reading opportunity!🩵
✨𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨📚
𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞
🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️🧜🏻♀️ (5/5)
🌶️🌶️💫 (2.5/5)
𝚆𝚑𝚢 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔…
•mafia romance
•revenge
•rich/poor
•forced marriage
•boss’s daughter/help
•second chance
———•———•———•———
Wowzer! This one was phenomenal!! This story pulled me into a dark, intoxicating world where love and vengeance collide.
The mafia romance element was intense and gripping, layered perfectly with a revenge plot that kept the tension razor-sharp.
I loved the complexity of the her being the rich girl in a cage while he was the help with no future. That dynamic — the hierarchy, the secrets, the history worked beautifully.
Forced marriage and proximity trope? Executed flawlessly. What starts as obligation slowly unravels into something raw and undeniable. And the second chance romance woven through it all made the emotional payoff even sweeter. The way Lorenzo was just farrel for Victoria. You could feel the unresolved hurt, the lingering longing, and the undeniable chemistry in every scene.
Dark, dramatic, and emotionally powerful — this one completely owned me. 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 Ava for allowing me the early reading opportunity!🩵
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t have the words for this, like I’m just kinda sitting here dazed and trying to stop crying cuz it reduced me to a sobbing mess.
Like the author note talks about how this is Lorenzo’s villain origin story, and I’ve read enough of Ava’s books to know what to expect, to be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster but like this book broke me.
I didn’t expect it to be as emotional and heartbreaking as it was, Victoria and Lorenzo have been through so much and even when they thought they had their HEA it wasn’t quite the end or their HEA…yet.
This is one of those books that’s like “hey this book completely emotionally destroyed me you should read it” because while the emotional damage is REAL it is so beautiful done and such an amazing and emotional book I don’t know if I’ll ever get over it.
Like the author note talks about how this is Lorenzo’s villain origin story, and I’ve read enough of Ava’s books to know what to expect, to be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster but like this book broke me.
I didn’t expect it to be as emotional and heartbreaking as it was, Victoria and Lorenzo have been through so much and even when they thought they had their HEA it wasn’t quite the end or their HEA…yet.
This is one of those books that’s like “hey this book completely emotionally destroyed me you should read it” because while the emotional damage is REAL it is so beautiful done and such an amazing and emotional book I don’t know if I’ll ever get over it.
February 26, 2026
Who doesn't love a good origin story? I know I do! And to see the origin story of our favorite crazy enforcer, Lorenzo from the Corrupt Empire series, to say I was excited to read this would be an understatement.
This is the long-awaited story of Lorenzo and Victoria. A childhood love, broken by circumstance and misinformation. Separated by time and devious means.
Revenge is at the heart of this story, and when Lorenzo and Victoria come back together, it's not hearts and flowers; it's vengeance and destruction.
This can totally be read as a standalone, but as a long-time fan of Ms. Harrison, it was great to see past characters make their presence known.
In fact, when I go back to re-read this series again, I may start with this book and then continue to the rest.
Well done, Ms. Harris, well done!
This is the long-awaited story of Lorenzo and Victoria. A childhood love, broken by circumstance and misinformation. Separated by time and devious means.
Revenge is at the heart of this story, and when Lorenzo and Victoria come back together, it's not hearts and flowers; it's vengeance and destruction.
This can totally be read as a standalone, but as a long-time fan of Ms. Harrison, it was great to see past characters make their presence known.
In fact, when I go back to re-read this series again, I may start with this book and then continue to the rest.
Well done, Ms. Harris, well done!
March 1, 2026
Ms. Harrison takes us back to The Corrupt Empire world and I’m happy to be back.
From the moment I started Cruel Throne I was invested in Lorenzo and Victoria.
The author perfectly blends revenge, second chance romance and the dangerous world of the mafia.
Add in forced marriage and I couldn’t get enough.
Lorenzo and Victoria meet at a young age.
He’s the hired help. She’s the princess in the castle.
There is a world of difference between them. But that didn’t stop them from falling in love.
Misunderstanding, circumstances and interferences tear them apart.
When they reunite I could feel all the emotions and feelings.
The anguish, the pain and the longing. It all comes to life off the pages.
Their story was emotional and gripping. Tension filled and intense.
Enjoyed the book very much.
From the moment I started Cruel Throne I was invested in Lorenzo and Victoria.
The author perfectly blends revenge, second chance romance and the dangerous world of the mafia.
Add in forced marriage and I couldn’t get enough.
Lorenzo and Victoria meet at a young age.
He’s the hired help. She’s the princess in the castle.
There is a world of difference between them. But that didn’t stop them from falling in love.
Misunderstanding, circumstances and interferences tear them apart.
When they reunite I could feel all the emotions and feelings.
The anguish, the pain and the longing. It all comes to life off the pages.
Their story was emotional and gripping. Tension filled and intense.
Enjoyed the book very much.
March 4, 2026
A love story like no other. Through Tragedy and pain they have made it through. Through it All their love was always there for each other. For years it was buried deep. Outside forces kept them apart without their knowledge. Lorenzo would do anything for her. What began as revenge resulted in a love so deep nothing and no one could separate them.
In the end it didn't matter that Lorenzo was not the same status as Victoria. Her parents both did everything they could to keep them apart when they were young. But yet they belonged to one another and fate would not disappoint. It may have taken time for them to finally be together but their bond and connection would stay as strong as ever and they would eventually get their happily ever after
In the end it didn't matter that Lorenzo was not the same status as Victoria. Her parents both did everything they could to keep them apart when they were young. But yet they belonged to one another and fate would not disappoint. It may have taken time for them to finally be together but their bond and connection would stay as strong as ever and they would eventually get their happily ever after
February 27, 2026
What a fantastic story. Lorenzo and his Little Bird are everything! I love how their story started. Their instant connection and chemistry cannot be denied. The princess born into wealth feels liked a caged bird, always expected to keep up appearances and not damage the family name until the boy from the wrong side of the tracks comes into her life as "the help".
Lorenzo and Victoria are torn apart by her family especially her cruel father who thinks that boy is beneath his daughter. Years later, a grown man, Lorenzo is set on revenge and he will get it at all costs even if that means using the girl he once loved. I love a good revenge story and this one checked all the boxes.
Lorenzo and Victoria are torn apart by her family especially her cruel father who thinks that boy is beneath his daughter. Years later, a grown man, Lorenzo is set on revenge and he will get it at all costs even if that means using the girl he once loved. I love a good revenge story and this one checked all the boxes.
March 2, 2026
Book 2 in the corrupt kingdom series and it can certainly be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
This installment features Lorenzo and Victoria’s story.
A gripping and intense second chance romance with all the markings of mafia drama to make it more interesting. Lorenzo and Victoria have a long history, as young lovers they thought they were soul mates but terrible life circumstances got in the way and pulled them apart.
Fast forward and they reconnect bringing back a lot of old emotions and a lot of new changes. Despite their attraction, there are other forces at play that make connection next to impossible.
Revenge, romance and over the top mafia drama made this a real page turner!
This installment features Lorenzo and Victoria’s story.
A gripping and intense second chance romance with all the markings of mafia drama to make it more interesting. Lorenzo and Victoria have a long history, as young lovers they thought they were soul mates but terrible life circumstances got in the way and pulled them apart.
Fast forward and they reconnect bringing back a lot of old emotions and a lot of new changes. Despite their attraction, there are other forces at play that make connection next to impossible.
Revenge, romance and over the top mafia drama made this a real page turner!
March 9, 2026
Unfortunately I wasn't a huge fan of this one. I probably would have DNF'd if it wasn't about a character I'd waited many years to read about. A friend of mine recently said she doesn't like when the reason something happens in a book isn't enough and I felt like that about this book and why Lorenzo originally became so violent and unhinged. Once I hit 40% and Lorenzo mentioned to Victoria and her mom multiple times about Victoria leaving him and no one spoke up, I knew this lack of communication and clarification would go on for quite some time. I started heavily skimming at this point just to see how it all ended. I think it was 80% into a 500 page book before it was cleared up. A lot of what was happening seemed like filler and it didn't really matter. I also realized that I don't mind flashbacks interwoven with the current day story, but I didn't care for 100 straight pages of them when they were 17/18 years old. Also the male friends are one of the things I like most about this world and we only heard from Alaric, Cyrus, Trent, etc. for one chapter.
March 20, 2026
The book was highly engaging and characterized by a timeless love story. I personally appreciate stories that begin with historical context; however, I found the narrative's jumps from the present to thirteen years later, involving children, to be somewhat disjointed. I believe the author should have elaborated on the various stages of the characters' struggles during those years, as this omission disrupts the flow. Providing more detailed insight into the protagonist's determination during difficult times, his realization of impending fatherhood, and the emotional risks he undertook would enhance the reader's connection and understanding.
February 25, 2026
Cruel Throne by Ava Harrison is the heart-wrenching story of Lorenzo and Victoria. Their lives were polar opposites. When they were young…the fell…hard. Then, fate intervened and she left. He never forgave her. Now, he’s about to get his revenge…
This story just ripped my heart to shreds, over and over and over again!! Lorenzo is so bitter and unforgiving. Victoria is trying to do what’s right. Their fateful decisions could last a lifetime and cause untold grief. Freaking amazing read!!!!
This story just ripped my heart to shreds, over and over and over again!! Lorenzo is so bitter and unforgiving. Victoria is trying to do what’s right. Their fateful decisions could last a lifetime and cause untold grief. Freaking amazing read!!!!
March 1, 2026
Cruel Throne is a story broken up into parts that spans over decades and is riddled with violence, danger and revenge but it is also a story where love finds a way.
Lorenzo Amante and Victoria Danforth grew up in very different worlds with Lorenzo growing up poor and Victoria never wanting for anything on the surface but what she craved was someone to love her. She and Lorenzo created a special bond when they were younger that changed their lives forever. Their story isn’t pretty but the heart knows what it wants and these two overcame a lot to finally be together.
Lorenzo Amante and Victoria Danforth grew up in very different worlds with Lorenzo growing up poor and Victoria never wanting for anything on the surface but what she craved was someone to love her. She and Lorenzo created a special bond when they were younger that changed their lives forever. Their story isn’t pretty but the heart knows what it wants and these two overcame a lot to finally be together.
March 12, 2026
He's "just the help."
Yet Lorenzo and Victoria have a deep connection. "It doesn't matter that her world is stitched together with money and privilege while mine is duct tape and survival." Then in a heartbeat everything changes for both of them. Be ready for violence, vengeance, torture, emotional upheaval, passion, loss, danger and secrets. And when truths are revealed, everything changes again. This is a compelling, addictive, extensive love story, 498 pages and spans two decades.
Yet Lorenzo and Victoria have a deep connection. "It doesn't matter that her world is stitched together with money and privilege while mine is duct tape and survival." Then in a heartbeat everything changes for both of them. Be ready for violence, vengeance, torture, emotional upheaval, passion, loss, danger and secrets. And when truths are revealed, everything changes again. This is a compelling, addictive, extensive love story, 498 pages and spans two decades.
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