The Criminal Redemption

by Ava Gray

The night Gifford Manor burned,
I learned what it means to lose everything— and everyone.

Six months later, I hunt ghosts across continents,
chasing whispers, bodies, and bank trails
that all lead to one name spoken like a curse.

Then I find him.
Cian Gifford. My forbidden Irish sin—
Alive. Scarred. Still capable of breaking me in a breath.

We don’t have the luxury of grief.
Not when someone is erasing empires.
Irish. Russian. Italian.
One by one, the underworld is bleeding out.

So we run together.
Hide together.
Burn for each other like we swore we never would.

Our vows are pretend.
Our enemies aren’t.
But the way I feel for him? Terrifyingly real.

His scars tell my secrets.
My heart hides one he’d burn the world for—
a truth that kicks beneath my ribs
and waits to break me in the end.

Because power always has a price.
And trust?
In our world, it’s the first casualty.

When the past claws back
and the enemy steps into the light,
I’ll face the one question that terrifies me more than death—

Not whether he’ll choose me…
but whether he’ll forgive me
for the one thing
I never meant to hide.

Author’s
A dark mafia second-chance romance with fake marriage, betrayal, secret pregnancy, and devotion forged in blood. High stakes, high heat, no cliffhanger, and a well deserved HEA.

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2026

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Criminal Redemption is the fifth book in the New York Criminal Empire Series. A full-length standalone romance with no cheating. The stories are interconnected with individuals from the previous books stopping by and contributing to the story. A dark mafia second-chance romance with fake marriage, betrayal, secret pregnancy, and devotion forged in blood. High stakes, high heat, no cliffhanger, and a well deserved HEA. In this dark mafia romance, a woman hunts for Cian Gifford across continents after losing everything. When they reunite, they face betrayal, secrets, and dangerous underworld conspiracy. Contains mature themes. This is Cian and Faina story which is told from a dual point of view. An exquisitely written story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline that captures the audience attention from the beginning and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat and turning the pages. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. Hang on to your seat and brace yourself for this tantalizing mind-blowing rollercoaster ride filled with heart-stopping emotions, pulse-pounding drama, high-octane adventures, non-stop twists and turns.
A contemporary romance, Russian Bratva story, forbidden romance, fake marriage story, romantic thriller story, dark mafia romance, billionaire romance, organize crime story, morally-grey antihero romance, off-limits romance, secret pregnancy romance, second chance romance, protective alpha hero romance, polar opposite attracts story, forced proximity romance with scorching hot passion, deep dark secrets, possessiveness, obsession, revelations, revenge, retaliation, violence, enemies, anger, grief, angst, trauma, intrigue, surprises, suspense, danger, trauma, sadness, captivity, love and so much more. A fast paced, thrilling and gripping read. I devoured every single detail of this book. Decadent. Compelling. Twisted. Dark. Dirty. Sinful.
The Gifford Manor was blown to smithereen burning to the ground. On that day Cian Gifford learn what it means to lose everything and everyone and he's the only survivor. He was abducted and torture for months by the same people who blew up his life taking away everything that he holds dear. Fast forward, six months later he was the hunt for a ghost across continents, chasing whispers, bodies and bank trails that all leads to one name spoken like a curse. He runs into his Faina Trutneva in Europe who he was once in love with. But had to end things because of their rival Irish/Russian relationship in New York. They were hunting and being hunted.
She was also on a quest for revenge and was looking for the same person. The two decided to trust and rely on each other and team up together to hunt down their shared enemy and permanently get rid of him. A story filled with heartbreak, rivalry, mob war, survival, resilience, healing, hurt and pain, alliance, connection, shared enemies, loss, bloodshed, murder, mayhem, darkness, spice, threats, attacks, madness, sabotage, guilt, loss, treachery, attempted murder, struggling, power struggle and so much more.

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

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating read with wonderful characters and a plot that is riveting throughout story
This is a wonderful read regarding an attempted murder, then assault and sabotage with a wonderful female lead along with a mystery that will keep readers captivated throughout. Evelyn Morris works in a motel as a maid it hard work but it’s honest. Unfortunately whilst working she had been in the wrong place at the wrong time and this had been that she had actually seen a murder and now she has become a possible target.
Cormac Gifford is the Captain of the Gifford Clan and since she discovered the body of a member slaughtered, he has discovered that she has a rival gang that wants to get their hands on her so his only option is to take her first and keep her safe himself.
Cormac is determined to discover who it is that killed his brother Cormac and left his body in a hotel room and now that he is the Captain he is Evelyn determined to discover who is responsible for the death of his brother and proposed attack on Evelyn.
I thoroughly loved every one of these characters and the plot which the author had written beautifully, it kept me guessing right to the very end and I cannot wait for new book by this writer.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

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

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final story in the A New York Criminal Empire Series where Cain is left scared and alone after an attack on his family home along with their alliances and friends from the Italian and Russian families. Alone with no support and a warning from his hospital bed while recovering from burns in the fire he leaves and becomes intent on revenge for his lost family. During his journey gathering evidence of those responsible he comes across Faina who wants to work together to bring them down. Cain knows it’s a bad idea as he’s never stopped loving her but back then neither family would have accepted their hidden relationship. Faina was sent to help Cain and her past and secrets will test their fragile relationship. As they uncover hidden secrets and destroy their enemies they become more and develop a deeper relationship. Their journey has some highs and lows that will have Cain’s emotional wellbeing tested. Just when they do what necessary does Cain truly discover what he’s been terribly missing! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Catherine Budd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cian survives the destruction of his family by a bombing. He starts on a journey to find the culprit. He is found by Faina who he fell in love with prior to his whole life being changed forever when he was held captive for months and tortured. They begin a journey across multiple countries and continents tracking the elusive Hawk who is the master mind behind Hexagon.
Along the way they face multiple near deadly obstacles but persevere in their quest. They rekindle their relationship as well.
This was a very complex, well written story with serious consequences for both Cian and Faina. The attraction between the two main characters is off the chart. Both are hiding secrets which could hold serious consequences for their quest.
There is a surprise HEA ending which was way more than I expected. This is a binge read worthy story.

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

[Siobhan D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cain’s world has been turned upside down and broken. His family has been murdered in an explosion and is the only one left of his family. The explosion also killed many of the Italian and Russian families. Who had come together unity. So who is responsible. All Cain sees and wants is revenge.
While hunting for the person responsible an ex lover and on and off enemy Faina form a new alliance.
Both want to know who killed their families. These two have history and trust is something neither seem to want to give. One thing is the chemistry has not gone.

Drama, emotions, spice , secrets and revenge.

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

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 5 of the A New York Criminal Empire Series. Can be read as a standalone.

'Author’s Note:
A dark mafia second-chance romance with fake marriage, betrayal, secret pregnancy, and devotion forged in blood. High stakes, high heat, no cliffhanger, and a well deserved HEA.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were so very dark and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend!

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

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

[Linda Fairburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you do when your entire family plus other mafia families are wiped out when an explosion brings the walls down.
Cian is the only survived of his family, injured but alive and the only thing stopping him from joining his family is revenge.
That's where Faina an ex lover not even friends now comes in to help, if he will own up to the fact he can't do it on his own.
All they have to find the one man responsible, sounds easy but its everything but.
This story will rake you to many places on the trail but are they the hunters or the pray only time will tell.
A great story with so much action that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like me.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cried, and I laughed, then I cried again

If you have read the earlier books in this series this one pulls on the heartstrings.

Cian is the next Gifford to have his story told,but the heartbreak at the beginning of this story made me cry. To read his journey with Faina to the HEA remote than deserves was an emotional journey

There are so many twists and turns in this book that it never gets boring. Throw in the steamy passion and the mafia.violence Ava Gray is known for and this book deserves 5 stars, at least.

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

[Cindy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Criminal Redemption is the fifth story in the New York Criminal Empire series. It can be read as a stand-alone story.

Cian is recovering after his family home is attacked. He is recovering in the hospital. He wants revenge for his family and begins to investigate. He discovers that his ex, Faina, is also wanting revenge. They decide to unite and fight against their enemies.

Cian and Faina's second chance romance story is filled with suspense and is very intense. I look forward to more from this talented author.

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

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional, intense, and beautiful

The Criminal Redemption is the fifth book in the A New York Criminal Empire Series. Be ready to have your heart shredded and your breath stolen with this book. The story is about Faina Trutneva and Cian Gifford. This series builds on each book and the characters are interwoven, so it is recommended that the books be read in order. But even if you haven't done that this story will still catch you immediately and weave you into a space where time does not exist. The writing is on point and compelling, the story is intense, intricately woven, full of passion, family, violence, vengeance, and more, and the characters are multi-layered.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding the Third

After reading the prior books in this series I did not expect to be shocked when beginning this book. However, the while vibe of this story was emotionally chaotic, charged and deeply rooted in heartbreak. Cian is the last one standing after the events from the first chapter and out for revenge. Running into Faina keeps him on edge but they are the only ones they can rely on which was written so well that I was on the edge of my seat at every interaction. Revelation of why everything went down was surprising and quite interesting. I could not put this book down.

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

[Brandy Hollis-Zeigler · Rating 5 out of 5]

From secrets to life bonding

Cian & Faina took a true journey from secret romance to cian getting kidnapped & hurt extremely bad, cian cutting everyone off, explosive party that leaves him with guilt and being hunted, to Fiana finding him in France and hoping that he'll work with her, then the chairs resumes around the world. Fiana can't help but still find him as the love she always wanted and once captured by Interpol finds out she's pregnant but has to keep it a secret because they still hasn't found Hawk, the NY Mafia killer. When all is said & done,
they finally get to love their dream with family!!!
Best ending to this series!!!

[Cathy Moir-Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book starts off with a bang and keeps right on building! An explosion and fire engulfs Guifford Manor impacting every branch of New York's mafia. Cian emerges as the only surviving member of his clan and sets out to extract revenge. He encounters his former love Faina who has undertaken the same quest as the underboss of the Russian faction. Can they work together and possibly learn to trust each other once more? Can they survive their deadly mission or will they too, burn up in flames? A damn fine book !!!

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cian and Faina have a past, but their destinies bring them together when someone is trying to wipe out the underworld empires. They are the last of their families and they are on the hunt and being hunted. Through it all love blossoms among other things. Will they live long enough to find happiness and rid themselves of the enemy trying to wipe them out. This story kept me glued to the pages from start to finish.

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

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cian and Faina were one hell of s rollercoaster ride. This book was intense from beginning to end. When they’re the last of the families, the m they decide to with together to find it what’s going on. They are the hunted and the hunters. I loved that they it put things aside and decided it was better to work together to get answers. And while they were searching they developed feelings for one another. I loved the way they let their guard down for one another and the love there were able to find in one another as well. This was a great story.

[Valettagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling, violent and sinister, when family is removed and injury impacts life immeasurably there is nothing more to lose when the opposition still want to take more. Resilience and love give the strength to fight back and to try and rebuild some semblance of happiness. Great read with strong characters that grow as they remember who they once were as they fight back under intimidating circumstance and regain a live lost.

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

[Brittany IdealistPages · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was good

This book was good, but it felt like it was too slow and I think why it felt like it was too slow for me is due to the fact that I kept getting distracted with other books so yeah, it’s one of those books that you can easily be pulled away by you I mean me and I’m not very much of a fan of those books but I’m still gonna give this four stars because one it was well written and kept me interested at first but when I read this to halfway the more that I just kept ignoring it to keep on reading it so with that said it just wasn’t my favorite book of this series

[Thea Kubicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Criminally Redemption

Cian and Faina

The beginning is heartbreaking so be prepared! Cian is looking for revenge when he runs into Faina who is doing the same. They put aside their differences and half-trusts to work together on their vengeance. There is so many ups and downs in this book, you'll feel like you're on a roller coaster of emotions. Pretty dark and well worth reading.

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

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I truly enjoyed this story, and felt the gut wrenching emotions, I had a hard time staying engaged. I’m not sure if it was a bit too long, if I just couldn’t get into it, or if it was just me being distracted.
This was an intense read with every emotion imaginable. I’m so glad all got their HEA with some bumps, bruises, and missing appendages along the way.

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

[Donna Nalbandian Woerner Homschek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense, exciting edge of your seat read from first page to the last. Two wonderful characters that work well together. Emotionally she is stronger, he is broken and together they are in an unattainable position. Great read.

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

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Criminal Redemption is Cian and Faina's dramatic journey. This story starts off with a bang and continues it's suspenseful, intriguing path all throughout the book. There's not a dull moment to be found as these characters navigate the path to finding the person/persons responsible for all of the damage and chaos brought into their lives. This is a great, intense story and an a must read!

[Hope Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twists and turns who knows which way is up A family apparently targeted by enemies and destroyed as the sole survivor he wants to avenge them, can he trust his onetime love to solve this mystery and protect their memories?

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

[Michi Rosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book, people. What a book.
This was a brilliant ending to this series; the author made some brave choices and I was frozen in place for 80% of this book, nothing dared move but my eyes and hands.
It was raw and action-packed and sensual and crazy at times.

Loved every minute I spent reading this.

[Stacy Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Way to world build. This installment puts all previous books to shame. Cian and Faina are unstoppable and their chemistry is explosive. Couldn’t put this book down and the ending. So worth the late night.

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

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cian and Faina have a past together but when theor criminal worlds burn and families targeted one by one they must unite against them, but a secret might tear them apart. Well written engaging steamy desires drama action and more

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. When their lives are falling apart around them vengeance, heartache, love , family is all that holds them all

[Amy Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Cian and Faina's story. If you want suspense, intrigue, and a very intense story, then this is a must read. If you really get into your stories, expect high emotions. You will not be let down.

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

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story right here by Ava. I stayed up late reading this mafia romance book last night and tonight just so I could finish reading this 5/5-star book. It is well written and has fantastic character development with a wonderful story line.

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh goodness, where do I even begin. What a completely gut wrenching story. If I wasn’t on pins and needles I was sobbing my eyes out. And that ending….WOW. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.

[Gaynor Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

Cian survives a devastating loss and it brings Faina into the picture. They are both on a mission and team up. There promises, lies, danger, heat, action, death and secrets!!