What do you think?
Rate this book
Second Sons Duet #2
All The Darkest Truths
Vesper Rossi was born into violence, but nothing could prepare her for the truth she now holds—a truth that burns hotter than revenge and cuts deeper than any blade. Her brother is alive, and her son—her stolen son—has been passed off as at the new Petrov heir, raised by her cousin as her own child.
With blood in her veins and fire in her heart, Vesper embarks on a savage journey to take back what’s hers. The Petrov empire will fall. Their alliances will shatter. And their very bloodline will burn.
With the Second Sons at her back and in her bed—Vesper will carve a path through anyone who stands in her way. She is no longer the captive; she is the storm, and she won’t stop until every lie has been scorched from the earth.
As Vesper tears through the underworld to rescue her brother and reclaim her legacy, the dark forces that stole everything from her are preparing to strike back. This is no longer about revenge—this is a war.
The truth will ruin them all. Blood will be spilled. And by the time Vesper’s vengeance is unleashed, the world will be nothing but ashes at her feet.
With blood in her veins and fire in her heart, Vesper embarks on a savage journey to take back what’s hers. The Petrov empire will fall. Their alliances will shatter. And their very bloodline will burn.
With the Second Sons at her back and in her bed—Vesper will carve a path through anyone who stands in her way. She is no longer the captive; she is the storm, and she won’t stop until every lie has been scorched from the earth.
As Vesper tears through the underworld to rescue her brother and reclaim her legacy, the dark forces that stole everything from her are preparing to strike back. This is no longer about revenge—this is a war.
The truth will ruin them all. Blood will be spilled. And by the time Vesper’s vengeance is unleashed, the world will be nothing but ashes at her feet.
636 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
54 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Avelyn Paige
53 books738 followersAvelyn Paige is the mischief-maker behind steamy dark romance, gritty mafia love stories, and high-octane motorcycle club tales that have blazed their way onto the Wall Street Journal and USA TODAY bestseller lists. She calls Indiana home, where she lives with her husband and five furry troublemakers who think they’re her editors.
When she’s not fighting the good fight in cancer research, Avelyn trades test tubes for plot twists and dives into worlds filled with danger, devotion, and deliciously bad decisions. She writes romance because it’s the one place where chaos and love can coexist, bullets can fly, hearts can heal, and everyone still gets the kind of ending worth fighting for.
After losing her dad in 2015, she turned heartbreak into creativity and never looked back. Now, she’s on a mission to prove that even the darkest hearts can find redemption, and that love—no matter how twisted—always leaves a mark worth remembering.
To learn more about Avelyn's books,
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2MP9tHD
Website: http://bit.ly/2Pedqrd
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Pdtbyz
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/2KQ8avl
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authoravelynp...
Sign-up for Avelyn's Newsletter: http://bit.ly/PaigeNewsletter
When she’s not fighting the good fight in cancer research, Avelyn trades test tubes for plot twists and dives into worlds filled with danger, devotion, and deliciously bad decisions. She writes romance because it’s the one place where chaos and love can coexist, bullets can fly, hearts can heal, and everyone still gets the kind of ending worth fighting for.
After losing her dad in 2015, she turned heartbreak into creativity and never looked back. Now, she’s on a mission to prove that even the darkest hearts can find redemption, and that love—no matter how twisted—always leaves a mark worth remembering.
To learn more about Avelyn's books,
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2MP9tHD
Website: http://bit.ly/2Pedqrd
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Pdtbyz
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/2KQ8avl
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authoravelynp...
Sign-up for Avelyn's Newsletter: http://bit.ly/PaigeNewsletter
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 21, 2025
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Dark Romance
*Mafia
*Revenge Plotline
*FMC with trauma
*Made men MMCs
*Established Harem (3)
*Mid Burn
*Book 2/2
Who needs enemies with families like these 😟
Picking up immediately after the end of book one were thrown right back into the chaos as Vesper has to come to terms with what she has done and the consequences of that could entail 😮 she picks herself from not only that but lots of betrayals, plotting and heartache throughout this book 😣There definitely a lot to this plot to keep you reading!! The twist with who the Collector was and why Vesper is so crucial was a really good and shocking twist 😮 so glad it is her though who gets those final moments of revenge 👑
Her men really come together in this book putting their jealous and possessive nature aside to help her through her trauma and seek the happiness she deserves with all of them as they each offer something different 🥰
The whole will they/won’t they scenario with Alex was different, it’s certainly angsty - especially with the near miss, but for me the Luca element - I think this may be controversial for some 😳 - I found it an odd outcome and it brought my rating down. Other than that a good very dark twisted RH read.
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Dark Romance
*Mafia
*Revenge Plotline
*FMC with trauma
*Made men MMCs
*Established Harem (3)
*Mid Burn
*Book 2/2
Who needs enemies with families like these 😟
Picking up immediately after the end of book one were thrown right back into the chaos as Vesper has to come to terms with what she has done and the consequences of that could entail 😮 she picks herself from not only that but lots of betrayals, plotting and heartache throughout this book 😣There definitely a lot to this plot to keep you reading!! The twist with who the Collector was and why Vesper is so crucial was a really good and shocking twist 😮 so glad it is her though who gets those final moments of revenge 👑
Her men really come together in this book putting their jealous and possessive nature aside to help her through her trauma and seek the happiness she deserves with all of them as they each offer something different 🥰
The whole will they/won’t they scenario with Alex was different, it’s certainly angsty - especially with the near miss, but for me the Luca element - I think this may be controversial for some 😳 - I found it an odd outcome and it brought my rating down. Other than that a good very dark twisted RH read.
June 28, 2025
I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
Continuing straight on with the story from where book one ended was a fantastic idea. It throws readers right back into the thick of things, allowing them to be emotionally captured and invested.
The four boys healing Vesper are all so different, even twins Zaire and Oscar, yet all the same in their desire to be with her and sort out the incredible hurdles she faces. I liked them in book one but even more in this second book. Vesper might just be my new favourite female character too. 🙌
The reverse harem romance element is up front and centre in this story but it is also still developing and as it does you feel a part of their family. Plenty of steamy scenes to delight those who love this aspect of the romance too.
Just who and where the Collector is located is a huge mystery. Plenty of nail-biting action and suspenseful drama fills page after page. This fast-paced story has quite a few interesting twists and turns. When I mentioned being emotionally captured—I meant it! As I read, my ire became so enraged that I was reading as fast as possible because I desperately needed to know what would happen. To me, this is the sign of quality writing.
July 3, 2025
This is the second part of this duet, and this is the perfect conclusion!
Vester is no longer a captive and is on a journey to take back what is hers, no matter who tries to stand in her way, she is determined to burn the Petrov empire to the ground, and search for her brother and son, and with the second sons by her side, everything comes to a head.
Be aware of the trigger warnings due to the sensitive content!
This is a well written dark, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, heartbreak, danger, suspense, intrigue, vengeance, mystery, lies, secrets, revelations, healing, trauma, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, unpredictable, and captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Vester is no longer a captive and is on a journey to take back what is hers, no matter who tries to stand in her way, she is determined to burn the Petrov empire to the ground, and search for her brother and son, and with the second sons by her side, everything comes to a head.
Be aware of the trigger warnings due to the sensitive content!
This is a well written dark, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, heartbreak, danger, suspense, intrigue, vengeance, mystery, lies, secrets, revelations, healing, trauma, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, unpredictable, and captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
July 11, 2025
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
What a way to finish this duet out!! This is a duet, and you need to read these in order. Carrying on from book one, we are getting loads of danger, violence, all the while seeking revenge for what has been done. Be prepared for loads of poly based naughty bits, and some regular one on one. This is a why choose, where the men will do anything for their lady, and I will say that while this is on fire with the naughty bits, it's still tastefully done. I give this 5 stars.
(5 stars)
What a way to finish this duet out!! This is a duet, and you need to read these in order. Carrying on from book one, we are getting loads of danger, violence, all the while seeking revenge for what has been done. Be prepared for loads of poly based naughty bits, and some regular one on one. This is a why choose, where the men will do anything for their lady, and I will say that while this is on fire with the naughty bits, it's still tastefully done. I give this 5 stars.
July 16, 2025
I have to say this book took me on a wild ride from start to finish as Vesper and her guy's are set on firing things up and boy do they. This was a fast paced nail biting wild ride that came with twists and turns. If you've read the first book you don't want to miss the conclusion. There's just something said about a final book bringing the heat, and this book was page turning worthy. You need to read
June 26, 2025
Holy Mafia Queen!!!!! I now have a book crush on a Mafia Princess /Queen!!! Don’t tell my hubby!!!!
Vesper has been raised to always be the obedient one and to “know her place”. Only daddy dearest didn’t know he had a daughter that would rule and end the families at the same time!!!
She was arranged to Marry Dimitri Petrov but his cousins couldn’t let that happen. Dimitri and his father Victor were brutal and cruel to women and men alike. Like her father they saw women as a vessel and a way to make more deals. But the twins saw her!!! They planned to save her but that went so wrong.
On the way to the airport to send her to Russia she was kidnapped. She was drugged and they stole her eggs. For two years they tortured her and for two years Oscar looked everyday. Then he got a tip about an auction with valuable merchandise. He just knew it had to be her.
The twins, Oscar and Zaire Along with and Alex make a solid plan to go and check out the auction and if it’s her to buy her, and get her the hell out of there! As soon as they brought her in stage Oscar knew it was her without a doubt. They hacked Victors accounts and bought her for 250 million dollars!!!!!
Alex is the hacker- cold one, Talon is the lifelong friend and the funny one, also a fighter, the twins Oscar, the mastermind and Zaire, the enforcer, are so patient and kind to Vesper with letting her work through her trauma and healing. They each help her in their own ways. Trust me she has some serious sh*t to work through too.
Oscar has always loved her, Zaire falls fast and hard for her once they get her back. Talon starts getting closer to her and it doesn’t take long for him to see what the twins do. Alex is more stand off. We find out why here in this second book and it’s an amazingly dark story that will end a path you don’t see coming til closer to the end.
During the two years she is captive a lot happens that she is unaware of. One thing she is aware of is that she needs to find her brother and the eggs stolen from her. Along the way she learns how dark the secrets of her family go. We find out who The Collector is, where are eggs are, stories of her parents and where her brother has been. The deceit and betrayal runs blood deep. Now the only thing left to do is take them all down!!! She will be damned if she lets anything happen to her brother, Luca or to her eggs or is it baby now?
What would a mafia princess be without her men by her side? A f*k’ng Queen that’s what!!!! It doesn’t hurt having their backing in this fight though. Let me tell you, they all have one another’s backs!!! They sacrifice and the loyalty to one another above all else! Blood runs in your veins but love and loyalty are bone deep!!!
This has a lot of action and heartbreak along the way but man the ending to this duet is so worth the emotions and rage you feel while reading!!! Thank you Avelyn Paige and Chaotic Creatives for letting me be ARC reader of this amazing story!!! (I’m sooo glad they made you go without sleep to keep writing hehe).
All the Pretty Lies - Book 1
All the Darkest Truths - Book 2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🥰🥰🥰🥰
🚩🚩🚩(check the triggers)
Vesper has been raised to always be the obedient one and to “know her place”. Only daddy dearest didn’t know he had a daughter that would rule and end the families at the same time!!!
She was arranged to Marry Dimitri Petrov but his cousins couldn’t let that happen. Dimitri and his father Victor were brutal and cruel to women and men alike. Like her father they saw women as a vessel and a way to make more deals. But the twins saw her!!! They planned to save her but that went so wrong.
On the way to the airport to send her to Russia she was kidnapped. She was drugged and they stole her eggs. For two years they tortured her and for two years Oscar looked everyday. Then he got a tip about an auction with valuable merchandise. He just knew it had to be her.
The twins, Oscar and Zaire Along with and Alex make a solid plan to go and check out the auction and if it’s her to buy her, and get her the hell out of there! As soon as they brought her in stage Oscar knew it was her without a doubt. They hacked Victors accounts and bought her for 250 million dollars!!!!!
Alex is the hacker- cold one, Talon is the lifelong friend and the funny one, also a fighter, the twins Oscar, the mastermind and Zaire, the enforcer, are so patient and kind to Vesper with letting her work through her trauma and healing. They each help her in their own ways. Trust me she has some serious sh*t to work through too.
Oscar has always loved her, Zaire falls fast and hard for her once they get her back. Talon starts getting closer to her and it doesn’t take long for him to see what the twins do. Alex is more stand off. We find out why here in this second book and it’s an amazingly dark story that will end a path you don’t see coming til closer to the end.
During the two years she is captive a lot happens that she is unaware of. One thing she is aware of is that she needs to find her brother and the eggs stolen from her. Along the way she learns how dark the secrets of her family go. We find out who The Collector is, where are eggs are, stories of her parents and where her brother has been. The deceit and betrayal runs blood deep. Now the only thing left to do is take them all down!!! She will be damned if she lets anything happen to her brother, Luca or to her eggs or is it baby now?
What would a mafia princess be without her men by her side? A f*k’ng Queen that’s what!!!! It doesn’t hurt having their backing in this fight though. Let me tell you, they all have one another’s backs!!! They sacrifice and the loyalty to one another above all else! Blood runs in your veins but love and loyalty are bone deep!!!
This has a lot of action and heartbreak along the way but man the ending to this duet is so worth the emotions and rage you feel while reading!!! Thank you Avelyn Paige and Chaotic Creatives for letting me be ARC reader of this amazing story!!! (I’m sooo glad they made you go without sleep to keep writing hehe).
All the Pretty Lies - Book 1
All the Darkest Truths - Book 2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🥰🥰🥰🥰
🚩🚩🚩(check the triggers)
July 16, 2025
Avelyn Paige did not come to play. The Second Sons Duet was an absolutely incredible ride. All the Pretty Little Lies was my first book by this author, and I was hooked within moments. Then she hit me with a cliffhanger that nearly broke me—so getting to dive straight into book two? Lifesaving!!! And let me tell you, Paige did not hold back. I’m officially obsessed.
From the very first page, All the Darkest Truths grabs you and doesn’t let go. The pacing is relentless in the best way—chapter after chapter of pure adrenaline. There was no “just one more chapter” moment. It was all of them. The writing is gritty and poetic, and the story is so emotionally charged I felt it in my bones. Every moment hits. Every bit of tension builds. Zero filler, all impact. And the heat? A solid 4🌶️, perfectly balanced with heartbreak.
I fell in love with Vesper as a main character—she’s so real, so complex. Easily one of the most compelling heroines I’ve read in a long time. And the men around her? A loyal, chaotic, fiercely protective force I couldn’t get enough of. Each brings something different to the group, and watching their bond grow had me completely hooked. This was a why-choose romance, but the group dynamic developed gradually and uniquely—and I was HERE for every minute of it. (Paige kind of broke me. Kind of. But she put me back together, too. That’s all I’ll say about that… if you want to know how, you’ll have to read the duet!)
If you love writing that’s sharp, evocative, and packed with emotional depth, The Second Sons Duet will wreck you in the best way. I can’t stress this enough. It makes you feel everything—and I mean everything. Paige pulls you deep into every scene and then cracks it wide open with a line that guts you. The tension simmers, the spice burns, and the emotional payoff hits hard.
It’s bold. It’s dark. It’s beautifully written. And it’s everything I want in a high-stakes, spicy romance.
Story: 5⭐
Spice: 4🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤Why Choose
🖤Alphahole Hero
🖤Abduction
🖤Anti-Hero
🖤Bad Boy
🖤Bratva
🖤Broody Heroes
🖤Traumatized FMC
🖤Italian Mafia Romance
🖤Emotional Scars
🖤Jealous/Possessive
🖤Mafia
From the very first page, All the Darkest Truths grabs you and doesn’t let go. The pacing is relentless in the best way—chapter after chapter of pure adrenaline. There was no “just one more chapter” moment. It was all of them. The writing is gritty and poetic, and the story is so emotionally charged I felt it in my bones. Every moment hits. Every bit of tension builds. Zero filler, all impact. And the heat? A solid 4🌶️, perfectly balanced with heartbreak.
I fell in love with Vesper as a main character—she’s so real, so complex. Easily one of the most compelling heroines I’ve read in a long time. And the men around her? A loyal, chaotic, fiercely protective force I couldn’t get enough of. Each brings something different to the group, and watching their bond grow had me completely hooked. This was a why-choose romance, but the group dynamic developed gradually and uniquely—and I was HERE for every minute of it. (Paige kind of broke me. Kind of. But she put me back together, too. That’s all I’ll say about that… if you want to know how, you’ll have to read the duet!)
If you love writing that’s sharp, evocative, and packed with emotional depth, The Second Sons Duet will wreck you in the best way. I can’t stress this enough. It makes you feel everything—and I mean everything. Paige pulls you deep into every scene and then cracks it wide open with a line that guts you. The tension simmers, the spice burns, and the emotional payoff hits hard.
It’s bold. It’s dark. It’s beautifully written. And it’s everything I want in a high-stakes, spicy romance.
Story: 5⭐
Spice: 4🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤Why Choose
🖤Alphahole Hero
🖤Abduction
🖤Anti-Hero
🖤Bad Boy
🖤Bratva
🖤Broody Heroes
🖤Traumatized FMC
🖤Italian Mafia Romance
🖤Emotional Scars
🖤Jealous/Possessive
🖤Mafia
July 2, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the second book in the Second Sons Duet. You have to read All The Pretty Little Lies or you are going to have no idea what is going on in this second book. This book does pick up where we left off in All The Pretty Little Lies. I was so excited to be back with Vesper, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex. This story like I said picks up with Vesper having to come to terms with that she has done. I was so worried they were going to lose her again. She is so desperate to get her brother back and it is heartbreaking to watch her struggle. But she did what she had to do and actual information that helped them to find Luca, her brother. I loved that the guys supported her and they were always there to try and keep her from losing it. Alex is focused on more in this book and I think what happens with him really surprises me. But I certainly had a hint of it but just couldn't figure it out all the way until Luca. I loved how strong Vesper is in this book. I don't think that she is a woman you ever want to mess with once she gets it all together and knows what has to be done to get it done. Of course she always has the support of the guys. This book has twists and turns you won't see coming. Yes you will know who The Collector is before you finish this book. Maybe it is in the middle of the book and not at the very end. But I loved how I was shocked. I didn't see that coming from a million miles away. But I was fully engrossed in this book and basically didn't lay it down. If you have read the first book you need to just buckle up and dive on in because this book gets crazier than the first. This is a great duet that every dark loving, why choose romance reader needs in their lives.
This is the second book in the Second Sons Duet. You have to read All The Pretty Little Lies or you are going to have no idea what is going on in this second book. This book does pick up where we left off in All The Pretty Little Lies. I was so excited to be back with Vesper, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex. This story like I said picks up with Vesper having to come to terms with that she has done. I was so worried they were going to lose her again. She is so desperate to get her brother back and it is heartbreaking to watch her struggle. But she did what she had to do and actual information that helped them to find Luca, her brother. I loved that the guys supported her and they were always there to try and keep her from losing it. Alex is focused on more in this book and I think what happens with him really surprises me. But I certainly had a hint of it but just couldn't figure it out all the way until Luca. I loved how strong Vesper is in this book. I don't think that she is a woman you ever want to mess with once she gets it all together and knows what has to be done to get it done. Of course she always has the support of the guys. This book has twists and turns you won't see coming. Yes you will know who The Collector is before you finish this book. Maybe it is in the middle of the book and not at the very end. But I loved how I was shocked. I didn't see that coming from a million miles away. But I was fully engrossed in this book and basically didn't lay it down. If you have read the first book you need to just buckle up and dive on in because this book gets crazier than the first. This is a great duet that every dark loving, why choose romance reader needs in their lives.
June 29, 2025
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
Continuing straight on with the story from where book one ended was a fantastic idea. It throws readers right back into the thick of things, allowing them to be emotionally captured and invested.
The four boys healing Vesper are all so different, even twins Zaire and Oscar, yet all the same in their desire to be with her and sort out the incredible hurdles she faces. I liked them in book one but even more in this second book. Vesper might just be my new favourite female character too. 🙌
The reverse harem romance element is up front and centre in this story but it is also still developing and as it does you feel a part of their family. Plenty of steamy scenes to delight those who love this aspect of the romance too.
Just who and where the Collector is located is a huge mystery. Plenty of nail-biting action and suspenseful drama fills page after page. This fast-paced story has quite a few interesting twists and turns. When I mentioned being emotionally captured—I meant it! As I read, my ire became so enraged that I was reading as fast as possible because I desperately needed to know what would happen. To me, this is the sign of quality writing.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Continuing straight on with the story from where book one ended was a fantastic idea. It throws readers right back into the thick of things, allowing them to be emotionally captured and invested.
The four boys healing Vesper are all so different, even twins Zaire and Oscar, yet all the same in their desire to be with her and sort out the incredible hurdles she faces. I liked them in book one but even more in this second book. Vesper might just be my new favourite female character too. 🙌
The reverse harem romance element is up front and centre in this story but it is also still developing and as it does you feel a part of their family. Plenty of steamy scenes to delight those who love this aspect of the romance too.
Just who and where the Collector is located is a huge mystery. Plenty of nail-biting action and suspenseful drama fills page after page. This fast-paced story has quite a few interesting twists and turns. When I mentioned being emotionally captured—I meant it! As I read, my ire became so enraged that I was reading as fast as possible because I desperately needed to know what would happen. To me, this is the sign of quality writing.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
July 5, 2025
Format: 📱 eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check TWs before reading
Must read All The Pretty Little Lies first - this is a direct continuation of book one, and what a journey we continue on in this second part of the duet.
Vesper is the epitome of a strong, fierce, badass FMC who is taking back the control she lost, and fighting for not only what she cares for, but what is right. I was in awe of her strength as we were shown her continued struggles, and to say her happily ever after is hard fought over is putting it mildly - but she came through with strength, courage and determination.
The development of the MMCs through this book was spectacular, and whilst I didn't see a certain twist coming, it made 100% sense and I absolutely cannot wait for the spinoff book. All the MMCs - Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex go through phenomenal growth in a multitude of ways, truly becoming the best people for Vesper in multiple ways (trying not to give spoilers here!).
This story is the perfect balance of suspense, action, romance and even some laugh out loud moments, despite the overall heaviness of the narrative. I adored the twists that Paige threw in, and when the action of the third act came, she BROUGHT IT. Often I find myself let down by the climax of a mafia book when it comes to feuding families, but this was spectacularly written. Again, hard to explain just why it was so good without spoilers.
I definitely recommend this duet for lovers of dark, mafia romance filled with growth of the MC's, heart and emotion, and who don't mind the potential to cry when things get tough. But this second part of the duet also proves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how much darkness you're trying to walk away from.
So many thanks to the author and @chaoticcreativeservices for the chance to ARC read this book (even if I am slightly behind with my reading/reviewing). These are my honest (if slightly incoherent) thoughts that I've provided voluntarily.
Check TWs before reading
Must read All The Pretty Little Lies first - this is a direct continuation of book one, and what a journey we continue on in this second part of the duet.
Vesper is the epitome of a strong, fierce, badass FMC who is taking back the control she lost, and fighting for not only what she cares for, but what is right. I was in awe of her strength as we were shown her continued struggles, and to say her happily ever after is hard fought over is putting it mildly - but she came through with strength, courage and determination.
The development of the MMCs through this book was spectacular, and whilst I didn't see a certain twist coming, it made 100% sense and I absolutely cannot wait for the spinoff book. All the MMCs - Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex go through phenomenal growth in a multitude of ways, truly becoming the best people for Vesper in multiple ways (trying not to give spoilers here!).
This story is the perfect balance of suspense, action, romance and even some laugh out loud moments, despite the overall heaviness of the narrative. I adored the twists that Paige threw in, and when the action of the third act came, she BROUGHT IT. Often I find myself let down by the climax of a mafia book when it comes to feuding families, but this was spectacularly written. Again, hard to explain just why it was so good without spoilers.
I definitely recommend this duet for lovers of dark, mafia romance filled with growth of the MC's, heart and emotion, and who don't mind the potential to cry when things get tough. But this second part of the duet also proves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how much darkness you're trying to walk away from.
So many thanks to the author and @chaoticcreativeservices for the chance to ARC read this book (even if I am slightly behind with my reading/reviewing). These are my honest (if slightly incoherent) thoughts that I've provided voluntarily.
July 6, 2025
The conclusion to the Second Sons Duet, All The Darkest Truths has arrived!! You must have read the first book in the duet series, nothing is going to make a lick of sense if you haven't. Check your trigger warnings, this one is just as devious as the first installment.
We just right back in where book one (All The Pretty Little Lies) left off, Vesper is free and more determined than ever to take back what is hers no matter the consequences. Vesper with her guys, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex are a force to be reckoned with, with them together again they embark on their journey to find Luca and Vesper's son. Of course there is the mystery of The Collector and where they will turn up. This book takes dramatic twists and turns to another level, through contained struggles and hardships, Vesper and her guys fight to find their happiness.
Vesper and her men grow so much throughout the two books. Character growth is always important, but when you have a reverse harem like this, it can get a little dicey, with so many characters, sometimes it feels like some get more than others. Not with Ms. Paige though, all of the fellas in this series really come into their own, not to mention Vesper. She is such a complex character, she is sassy and strong, but can be delicate and vulnerable with her guys. Truly a character to relate to. The storyline is fast paced, which is good because this series takes you through the emotions, but it just enhances the reader's experience. When the ending finally came up, I was waiting for something else, but no, it's just BAM it’s done, a little sad for that but excited for what will hopefully come next!
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Tropes:
💜 Mafia Romance
💜 Reverse Harem
💜 Morally Grey FMC
We just right back in where book one (All The Pretty Little Lies) left off, Vesper is free and more determined than ever to take back what is hers no matter the consequences. Vesper with her guys, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex are a force to be reckoned with, with them together again they embark on their journey to find Luca and Vesper's son. Of course there is the mystery of The Collector and where they will turn up. This book takes dramatic twists and turns to another level, through contained struggles and hardships, Vesper and her guys fight to find their happiness.
Vesper and her men grow so much throughout the two books. Character growth is always important, but when you have a reverse harem like this, it can get a little dicey, with so many characters, sometimes it feels like some get more than others. Not with Ms. Paige though, all of the fellas in this series really come into their own, not to mention Vesper. She is such a complex character, she is sassy and strong, but can be delicate and vulnerable with her guys. Truly a character to relate to. The storyline is fast paced, which is good because this series takes you through the emotions, but it just enhances the reader's experience. When the ending finally came up, I was waiting for something else, but no, it's just BAM it’s done, a little sad for that but excited for what will hopefully come next!
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Tropes:
💜 Mafia Romance
💜 Reverse Harem
💜 Morally Grey FMC
July 15, 2025
I’m not exactly sure how I feel about this book, if I’m honest. The continuation of the storyline was great; it did exactly what it needed to do to carry through what we already learned in the first book. However there were a few things that annoyed me throughout this one.
1) Z is all of a sudden so possessive. In the first one, Z is the one feeling Oz that everything is Vesper’s choice. But in this book, he can’t seem to take his own advice and just let her go when she wants someone else. A lot of the “relations” that took place were between Z and Vesper, sometime almost feeling like the others were left out to dry.
2) And this one isn’t necessarily in just this book…I hate when there is a huge build-up and so much planning and it takes less than 2 chapters for everything to happen. Now mind you, in this book, there are a lot of things that take a lot of planning but when it came to taking down Dmitri and Victor, I felt that was all very rushed through.
While I loved All the Pretty Little Things and I couldn’t wait for All the Darkest Truths, I’m not sure if this is exactly how I envisioned it or if I’m annoyed by it. However, who The Collector was- NEVER saw that coming!!!!!
Also, the deleted scene between Alex and Vesper? I’m so, so, so glad that was pulled out; Alex would never have gone for that!!!
And this felt like it was rushed for publication because there are SO many errors, mainly just capitalization, punctuation but enough that it got extremely annoying the farther in I got.
1) Z is all of a sudden so possessive. In the first one, Z is the one feeling Oz that everything is Vesper’s choice. But in this book, he can’t seem to take his own advice and just let her go when she wants someone else. A lot of the “relations” that took place were between Z and Vesper, sometime almost feeling like the others were left out to dry.
2) And this one isn’t necessarily in just this book…I hate when there is a huge build-up and so much planning and it takes less than 2 chapters for everything to happen. Now mind you, in this book, there are a lot of things that take a lot of planning but when it came to taking down Dmitri and Victor, I felt that was all very rushed through.
While I loved All the Pretty Little Things and I couldn’t wait for All the Darkest Truths, I’m not sure if this is exactly how I envisioned it or if I’m annoyed by it. However, who The Collector was- NEVER saw that coming!!!!!
Also, the deleted scene between Alex and Vesper? I’m so, so, so glad that was pulled out; Alex would never have gone for that!!!
And this felt like it was rushed for publication because there are SO many errors, mainly just capitalization, punctuation but enough that it got extremely annoying the farther in I got.
June 20, 2025
*Make sure to read book 1 All The Pretty Little Lies first*
**CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS!**
This book gave me everything I didn't know I needed for the story and its completion. The story picks up exactly where book one ended and the dynamic of Vesper, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex is just perfection. It works as everyone has a place in her life not just as her protectors they all know what she needs. As Vesper says "Each of you gives me something different, something I need... with Oz its understanding, with Talon its laughter, with Alex its space to breathe and with you Z it's safety, protection. I need all of that. All of you" Still with in this it's about Vesper and what she wants and about her healing. I appreciate that Avelyn stays true to this. This book does take you on a rollercoaster ride with new revelations into what actually happened to Vesper and Luca and the mastermind behind it all. That was a shock that I did not see coming! This had the best conclusion and I can't wait for what comes next in this world! Thank you for writing these!🩷
**CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS!**
This book gave me everything I didn't know I needed for the story and its completion. The story picks up exactly where book one ended and the dynamic of Vesper, Zaire, Oscar, Talon and Alex is just perfection. It works as everyone has a place in her life not just as her protectors they all know what she needs. As Vesper says "Each of you gives me something different, something I need... with Oz its understanding, with Talon its laughter, with Alex its space to breathe and with you Z it's safety, protection. I need all of that. All of you" Still with in this it's about Vesper and what she wants and about her healing. I appreciate that Avelyn stays true to this. This book does take you on a rollercoaster ride with new revelations into what actually happened to Vesper and Luca and the mastermind behind it all. That was a shock that I did not see coming! This had the best conclusion and I can't wait for what comes next in this world! Thank you for writing these!🩷
July 6, 2025
Oh my gosh!!! What a conclusion to what has been a fantastic duet!! It's been great to read Vesper's growth within these two books and to have the Second Sons behind her too was just epic.
We pick up where we left off from book one and Vesper is on a mission to take down the Petrov family once and for all and get her brother and son back in her life!!! She lets no one stand in her way and she comes out as the queen of her empire and no one will hold her captive again she's one strong woman I tell you that!!
Please check your triggers this has many and it gets quite dark in places. This has been so well written it's dark, twisted, suspenseful, emotional yes there is trauma but also there is healing. Vesper and her men....Oscar, Zaire, Alex and Talon oof to have not one man but four take care of their queen I can tell you it had my kindle on fire 🔥 it had just the right amount of spice along with the plot. I love a why choose dark romance they are one of my favourite tropes and this didn't disappoint.
We pick up where we left off from book one and Vesper is on a mission to take down the Petrov family once and for all and get her brother and son back in her life!!! She lets no one stand in her way and she comes out as the queen of her empire and no one will hold her captive again she's one strong woman I tell you that!!
Please check your triggers this has many and it gets quite dark in places. This has been so well written it's dark, twisted, suspenseful, emotional yes there is trauma but also there is healing. Vesper and her men....Oscar, Zaire, Alex and Talon oof to have not one man but four take care of their queen I can tell you it had my kindle on fire 🔥 it had just the right amount of spice along with the plot. I love a why choose dark romance they are one of my favourite tropes and this didn't disappoint.
July 2, 2025
Holy cow. We learned in the first book that Vesper is a warrior and survivor and BADASS. But this book takes her to a whole new lever, we explore more in depth of how Vesper works, the relationships with the guys grows. The comedic relief Alex brought to this book through his “dark web connections” made me cackle. I loved Luca and starting to learn his personality more, especially at the end. I’m excited to read about Luca in the next book. Avelyn brings all of these characters to life and intertwines them so well. Her attention to detail heading from one POV to another and recapping the last few seconds of a scene in the 2nd persons POV. I love that. It really makes the book play out as a movie in your brain. Such a good book!
July 27, 2025
All the Darkest Truths:
This story was a continuation of All the Pretty Little Lies & the continuation will scare most of you out there, it did me. OMG some of the truths that were revealed in his book were unthinkable, to me at least. I never in a million years imagined that the Collector would be who he was or why he was doing what he was doing. Vesper you are a strong woman that others out there will aspire to become. You are right in one aspect, which is that family isn’t always those that you are born into but those that you choose. Those family members will have your back for the rest of your life standing by your side. They are the ones you will want in the good of times but as well as the bad times.
Thank-You Avelyn Paige
#AlltheDarkestTruths #AvelynPaige
This story was a continuation of All the Pretty Little Lies & the continuation will scare most of you out there, it did me. OMG some of the truths that were revealed in his book were unthinkable, to me at least. I never in a million years imagined that the Collector would be who he was or why he was doing what he was doing. Vesper you are a strong woman that others out there will aspire to become. You are right in one aspect, which is that family isn’t always those that you are born into but those that you choose. Those family members will have your back for the rest of your life standing by your side. They are the ones you will want in the good of times but as well as the bad times.
Thank-You Avelyn Paige
#AlltheDarkestTruths #AvelynPaige
June 27, 2025
We Got Answers
The great thing about duets is that they tend to pick up where they left off, leaving nothing out. And I am pleased to report this one did just that.
Despite the final part being action-packed, with twists and turns that gave me whiplash, I just couldn't help but feel a little underwhelmed, I think perhaps I am a little upset at the direction certain events took...but that's just my opinion 🤷🏼♀️ (I did squeak with happy surprise during the epilogue though).
Overall, it's still a decent read with banter, spice and the long-awaited answers we yearned for, it just wasn't the book for me on this occasion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶
The great thing about duets is that they tend to pick up where they left off, leaving nothing out. And I am pleased to report this one did just that.
Despite the final part being action-packed, with twists and turns that gave me whiplash, I just couldn't help but feel a little underwhelmed, I think perhaps I am a little upset at the direction certain events took...but that's just my opinion 🤷🏼♀️ (I did squeak with happy surprise during the epilogue though).
Overall, it's still a decent read with banter, spice and the long-awaited answers we yearned for, it just wasn't the book for me on this occasion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶
June 29, 2025
This is the second part of Vesper’s story. The ending of the first book had me reeling. I was so excited to see where the rest of this duet took us. I love how strong Vesper is. And how hard she loves. She’s willing to do anything to save her brother as well as her guys. This book is action packed and there’s so much that happens. I really enjoyed this book and am so glad everything worked out in the end. Vesper is so smart and relentless when needed, but she’s also so attentive to what her guys need. And I cannot wait for the next book. I can say much without spoiling it, but I’m here for it!!!
June 30, 2025
You wouldn’t think this was the authors first time dabbling in writing something outside of the MC genre. This dark why choose mafia romance duet was amazing! The conclusion to this duet picks up exactly where book 1 left off. The dynamic between Vesper, Zaire, Oscar, Talon, and Alex is so well done and I love how each person gives her something different. The strength in Vesper is incredible and well written. The conclusion brings us some much needed answers and some turns you don’t expect. I really enjoyed this duet!
July 2, 2025
Holy crap!!!
Holy crap!!!!! I have no words! Which is problematic as I need to write a review, we’ll type one out!
Book two kicks off where book one ended and my breath was stolen from me! This book absolutely blew me away. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and on my last nerve.
Vesper has been through so much but fuck is she strong! And with the guys determined to right all the wrongs in their own way? My fucking heart exploded!
And that ending??!!! Holy fuck!!!
Holy crap!!!!! I have no words! Which is problematic as I need to write a review, we’ll type one out!
Book two kicks off where book one ended and my breath was stolen from me! This book absolutely blew me away. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and on my last nerve.
Vesper has been through so much but fuck is she strong! And with the guys determined to right all the wrongs in their own way? My fucking heart exploded!
And that ending??!!! Holy fuck!!!
June 17, 2025
Please read the first book!!!!
Talk about a whirlwind of emotions that dropped off right where book 1 left us… heartbroken, so many emotions and questions…. Vesper has so many demons fighting after to survive and having to handle things on her own.. our mmc always there for her.. join in as she does everything to save her brother… the twists and turns you will not see coming the suspense along the way and the heart wrenching ending that is perfection
Talk about a whirlwind of emotions that dropped off right where book 1 left us… heartbroken, so many emotions and questions…. Vesper has so many demons fighting after to survive and having to handle things on her own.. our mmc always there for her.. join in as she does everything to save her brother… the twists and turns you will not see coming the suspense along the way and the heart wrenching ending that is perfection
June 19, 2025
Arc review- vesper is a B.A.B. and handled herself like a seasoned pro. It was so fun to see her come into her own after everything she went through in book 1. No spoilers but something that I was super excited for changed direction and I am so disappointed but also extremely intrigued at the same time. Needless to say this conclusion to vespers story was a roller coaster of emotions that I am still processing.
June 20, 2025
All The Darkest Truths picks up Vesper's story and like book 1 this one is just as intense and full of emotion. Vesper is battling so much and she's unbelievably strong and resilient in spite of it all. Buckle up, sit back and enjoy this fantastic story. It'll keep you on the edge of your seat right up until the end. Remember, this is a dark story so make sure you check trigger warnings before you start reading.
June 27, 2025
This was an intense and suspenseful read. Vesper and the guys just couldn't catch a break. Just when they thought Luca was in their sight, they were thrown back to square one.
Vesper had a lot of growth in this book as she navigated through her trauma and hung onto the hope of reuniting with her brother, Luca. It was great seeing her come into her own. The level of betrayal she endured was devastating. But her four men, Oscar, Zaier, Talon, and Alex, were right there with her. I loved how all four clamored to be her protector, and despite the reluctance to share from a certain somebody, in the end, Vesper’s needs took precedence, and boy did they deliver. This menage had some hella spicy moments that were chef’s kiss. I loved seeing them come together to have Vesper’s back and seeing their relationships evolve.
There we quite a few twists and turns that kept me turning the page. I loved getting more insight into Alex. I was not prepared for that turn of events, but it was an interesting development. Avelyn Paige did a great job of tying up loose ends and giving Vesper and her men their HEA.
Vesper had a lot of growth in this book as she navigated through her trauma and hung onto the hope of reuniting with her brother, Luca. It was great seeing her come into her own. The level of betrayal she endured was devastating. But her four men, Oscar, Zaier, Talon, and Alex, were right there with her. I loved how all four clamored to be her protector, and despite the reluctance to share from a certain somebody, in the end, Vesper’s needs took precedence, and boy did they deliver. This menage had some hella spicy moments that were chef’s kiss. I loved seeing them come together to have Vesper’s back and seeing their relationships evolve.
There we quite a few twists and turns that kept me turning the page. I loved getting more insight into Alex. I was not prepared for that turn of events, but it was an interesting development. Avelyn Paige did a great job of tying up loose ends and giving Vesper and her men their HEA.
June 27, 2025
What an amazing duet and introduction to this new to me author!
Vesper's story drew me in and held me tightly!
This had me turning page after page wondering where Ms. Paige was going to take me next.
The path was definitely twisted!
Along with Talon, Z, Oz and Alex we'll learn if revenge is best served cold!
This story has so much angst!
So much emotion!
Suspense!
Wait until you find out "all the Darkest truths!"
Clear your schedule...you won't want to put this down!
Vesper's story drew me in and held me tightly!
This had me turning page after page wondering where Ms. Paige was going to take me next.
The path was definitely twisted!
Along with Talon, Z, Oz and Alex we'll learn if revenge is best served cold!
This story has so much angst!
So much emotion!
Suspense!
Wait until you find out "all the Darkest truths!"
Clear your schedule...you won't want to put this down!
June 30, 2025
This book picked up where book 1 ended. This was told from multiple POV. This book was emotional with mystery. We find out the answer to who is the collector? The 4 will do anything to protect Vesper. While protecting her there is some spice . This was fast paced with twists that kept me turning the pages to see what happens next Great book!!
Thank you to Avelyn Paige and Chaotic Creatives for the ARC.
Thank you to Avelyn Paige and Chaotic Creatives for the ARC.
July 2, 2025
4.5 stars
The conclusion! This was another emotional read with dark aspects, but also had hope and a happy ending.
Vesper's search for her brother (& her son) came to a head here. Knowing where they were, and seeing/saving them, were two very different things, but the group was determined to get everyone back.
I'm so looking forward to reading Luca's story. I'd love to see where his life went after this duet.
An amazing duet, with a strong female lead (especially in book 2!)
The conclusion! This was another emotional read with dark aspects, but also had hope and a happy ending.
Vesper's search for her brother (& her son) came to a head here. Knowing where they were, and seeing/saving them, were two very different things, but the group was determined to get everyone back.
I'm so looking forward to reading Luca's story. I'd love to see where his life went after this duet.
An amazing duet, with a strong female lead (especially in book 2!)
July 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️/ 4 🌶️
This duet gives you such a ride! So much suspense and twists, the RH dynamic is ever evolving, and watching Vesper become to kick ass heroine she is meant to be. I loved this story and was hooked from the very beginning. There’s so much going on, but it’s easy to follow and flows well.
I also loved that this second half we got to get to know Luca a bit. I can’t wait to get in his head for his book next. I’m still a little bit torn on who his love interest is just because I had it in my head that it would end a different way. But I’m also excited for it. It’s a love hate relationship with that particular detail. But what a ride. I already miss these guys so much!
This duet gives you such a ride! So much suspense and twists, the RH dynamic is ever evolving, and watching Vesper become to kick ass heroine she is meant to be. I loved this story and was hooked from the very beginning. There’s so much going on, but it’s easy to follow and flows well.
I also loved that this second half we got to get to know Luca a bit. I can’t wait to get in his head for his book next. I’m still a little bit torn on who his love interest is just because I had it in my head that it would end a different way. But I’m also excited for it. It’s a love hate relationship with that particular detail. But what a ride. I already miss these guys so much!
June 21, 2025
This book is the conclusion of Vesper’s story. And what a conclusion it was! This book picks up where the last book stopped. Vesper definitely comes into her own and becomes the strong heroine we hoped she’d be. There are many twists and surprises in this book! So be prepared. But what continues is the found family they created. I can’t wait for the next duet!!
July 1, 2025
A dark, fiery revenge tale where Vesper Rossi fights to reclaim her stolen son, rescue her brother, and burn the Petrov empire to the ground. With the Second Sons by her side, she’s unstoppable.
This war is personal, and nothing will be left standing.
Action packed and unputdownable, loved it from the start.
This war is personal, and nothing will be left standing.
Action packed and unputdownable, loved it from the start.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews