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Symphony of Sorrow
My husband is rich, hot, and the heir to the powerful Di Rossi crime family.
I hate his guts.
After my stepmother sold me like a prize cow, I ran away before the ink had even dried on the marriage certificate.
One year later, I'm dragged back to the marital home and locked in a gilded cage.
Angelo Di Rossi might make my pulse race when he threatens to punish me for my transgressions, but I’ll never forgive him for ruining my life.
And I’m not too happy with Kane, Angelo’s enforcer. That a-hole may be dangerously sexy but calling me kitten and acting like he cares about my safety means nothing.
Luka, the deliciously pretty black sheep of the family, and Angelo’s younger half-brother, is my only solace with his flirty banter and smoking hot abs.
Unfortunately for Angelo, I’m not the submissive mafia wife he expected.
My beloved husband might think it’s acceptable to keep me under 24/7 surveillance.
But cameras work both ways, and with Luka’s help, I’m happy to put on a show for him and Kane.
They both like to watch me.
Relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, spread over the kitchen table…
Instead of getting angry, I plan to get even.
By fair means or foul.
---
Symphony of Sorrow is book one in a MFMM (no MM) why choose mafia romance duet where the FMC does not have to choose between her three love interests. Book one ends on a cliff but book two has a HEA. For triggers, check the content note at the beginning of the book.
If you enjoy dark romance with banter and a strong FMC, you'll love this book!
I hate his guts.
After my stepmother sold me like a prize cow, I ran away before the ink had even dried on the marriage certificate.
One year later, I'm dragged back to the marital home and locked in a gilded cage.
Angelo Di Rossi might make my pulse race when he threatens to punish me for my transgressions, but I’ll never forgive him for ruining my life.
And I’m not too happy with Kane, Angelo’s enforcer. That a-hole may be dangerously sexy but calling me kitten and acting like he cares about my safety means nothing.
Luka, the deliciously pretty black sheep of the family, and Angelo’s younger half-brother, is my only solace with his flirty banter and smoking hot abs.
Unfortunately for Angelo, I’m not the submissive mafia wife he expected.
My beloved husband might think it’s acceptable to keep me under 24/7 surveillance.
But cameras work both ways, and with Luka’s help, I’m happy to put on a show for him and Kane.
They both like to watch me.
Relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, spread over the kitchen table…
Instead of getting angry, I plan to get even.
By fair means or foul.
---
Symphony of Sorrow is book one in a MFMM (no MM) why choose mafia romance duet where the FMC does not have to choose between her three love interests. Book one ends on a cliff but book two has a HEA. For triggers, check the content note at the beginning of the book.
If you enjoy dark romance with banter and a strong FMC, you'll love this book!
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2026
21 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Ava Summers
16 books82 followersAva Summers is a dark romance author who loves reading about feisty females and morally gray alpha males. She prefers books with a healthy dose of spice. If the heroine doesn't have to choose between her guys, even better! When Ava's not reading and writing, she likes to paint and occasionally run 10ks. She also spends way too much time keeping her rescue cat entertained.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 27, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc 🖤
When I started I couldn’t put it down a hooker of a book is an UNDERSTATEMENT.
Chiara had me laughing throughout the whole book, considering she was forced to marry a ruthless man she has 0 cares what anyone thinks about her including her husband hats off to her because I’d have done everything he said 🤣.
Luka, Kane & her husband love her in their own ways and it’s the best thing I’ve ever witnessed. The way they are all smitten with her has me wanting more and more of them all together 😩😍 && can we talk about the fact her husband deals with her being a ruthless woman and determined not to divorce her?🤣 I am invested to see if she ever finds out his loved her since childhood?🥹
I couldn’t believe the way it ended the CLIFF HANGER at the end had my jaw ON THE FLOOR. I need need need to get my hands onto the next one already 🖤
When I started I couldn’t put it down a hooker of a book is an UNDERSTATEMENT.
Chiara had me laughing throughout the whole book, considering she was forced to marry a ruthless man she has 0 cares what anyone thinks about her including her husband hats off to her because I’d have done everything he said 🤣.
Luka, Kane & her husband love her in their own ways and it’s the best thing I’ve ever witnessed. The way they are all smitten with her has me wanting more and more of them all together 😩😍 && can we talk about the fact her husband deals with her being a ruthless woman and determined not to divorce her?🤣 I am invested to see if she ever finds out his loved her since childhood?🥹
I couldn’t believe the way it ended the CLIFF HANGER at the end had my jaw ON THE FLOOR. I need need need to get my hands onto the next one already 🖤
February 24, 2026
Chiara completely stole the show for me. Being forced into marriage with a cold, powerful man would break most people, but not her. She’s bold, mouthy, fearless, and unapologetically herself. She doesn’t bend, doesn’t beg, and absolutely does not care what anyone, especially her husband thinks.
And the men? Luka, Kane, and Angelo each love her in such different, complicated ways. Watching them orbit around her, completely taken with her fire, was everything. The tension, the possessiveness, the quiet devotion simmering underneath it all — I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between the four of them.
What really got me, though, is Angelo. The fact that he accepts her sharp edges, refuses to let her go, and has apparently loved her for years? I need her to find that out immediately because I am INVESTED.
And that ending… I was not prepared. That cliffhanger had me staring at the page in shock. I need the next book in my hands ASAP because there’s no way I can be left hanging like that.
And the men? Luka, Kane, and Angelo each love her in such different, complicated ways. Watching them orbit around her, completely taken with her fire, was everything. The tension, the possessiveness, the quiet devotion simmering underneath it all — I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between the four of them.
What really got me, though, is Angelo. The fact that he accepts her sharp edges, refuses to let her go, and has apparently loved her for years? I need her to find that out immediately because I am INVESTED.
And that ending… I was not prepared. That cliffhanger had me staring at the page in shock. I need the next book in my hands ASAP because there’s no way I can be left hanging like that.
February 6, 2026
3.5⭐️
This mafia, why choose, enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage romance had a really engaging plot and was super easy to read.
I enjoyed the story, but the multiple POVs made it feel a bit disjointed, like pieces of the story were there, just not fully glued together between chapters.
The FMC started to get on my nerves towards the end because she was so focused on hating her husband that she overlooked his efforts, though to be fair, he didn’t exactly make things easy either.
Overall, I did enjoy it, and that cliffhanger ending has me very curious to see how this story wraps up...
This mafia, why choose, enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage romance had a really engaging plot and was super easy to read.
I enjoyed the story, but the multiple POVs made it feel a bit disjointed, like pieces of the story were there, just not fully glued together between chapters.
The FMC started to get on my nerves towards the end because she was so focused on hating her husband that she overlooked his efforts, though to be fair, he didn’t exactly make things easy either.
Overall, I did enjoy it, and that cliffhanger ending has me very curious to see how this story wraps up...
February 9, 2026
This book was so good!! I was hooked immediately. Chiara is a boss bitch, I love her. So is Fina, but in a different way! And I love all the guys too, of course. But I love that the main women represent the various faces we wear. For a why-choose mafia romance, is extremely relatable lol. But I need the next book, like, yesterday!!!
February 3, 2026
This is another great mafia romance novel! With themes of arranged marriage & runaway bride, it was a very entertaining read. I loved the dynamic between the FMC and all three MMC's and cannot wait to read the rest of this story! Each MMC has a different personality style with a golden retriever, a grump & a protect her at all costs guy there is great variety to the read.
Cannot wait for the next instalment!
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for this ARC.
Cannot wait for the next instalment!
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for this ARC.
January 19, 2026
Read this ARC read, had me hooked from the beginning. Chiara is forced to marry Angelo (mafia boss) who she’s hates she runsaway after the wedding and one year later she is tracked down and brought back by Kane (angelo best friend) she is watched every minute while living back in the mansion. She becomes friends with Luka (angelos brother) and chiara then makes it hard for Angelo to watch the cameras 🥵 🫣.
Was a really good read did leave on a cliffhanger and was hoping I would see the relationship between chiara and Angelo grow abit more, but excited to read the next book!
Was a really good read did leave on a cliffhanger and was hoping I would see the relationship between chiara and Angelo grow abit more, but excited to read the next book!
February 16, 2026
Chiara’s husband is rich, hot, and the heir to the powerful Di Rossi crime family.
She hates his guts.
After Chiara’s stepmother sold her like a prize cow, she ran away before the ink had even dried on the marriage certificate.
One year later, she’s dragged back to the marital home and locked in a gilded cage.
Angelo Di Rossi might make Chiara’s pulse race when he threatens to punish her for her transgressions, but she’ll never forgive him for ruining her life.
And she’s not too happy with Kane, Angelo’s enforcer. That a-hole may be dangerously sexy but calling her kitten and acting like he cares about her safety means nothing.
Luka, the deliciously pretty black sheep of the family, and Angelo’s younger half-brother, is Chiara’s only solace with his flirty banter and smoking hot abs.
Unfortunately for Angelo, she’s not the submissive mafia wife he expected.
Chiara’s beloved husband might think it’s acceptable to keep her under 24/7 surveillance.
But cameras work both ways, and with Luka’s help, she’s happy to put on a show for him and Kane.
They both like to watch her.
Relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, spread over the kitchen table…
Instead of getting angry, Chiara plana to get even.
By fair means or foul.
---
Symphony of Sorrow is book one in a MFMM (no MM) why choose mafia romance duet where the FMC does not have to choose between her three love interests. Book one ends on a cliffhanger but book two has a HEA. For triggers, check the content note at the beginning of the book.
If you enjoy dark romance with banter and a strong FMC, you'll love this book!
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Forced Marriage/Arranged Marriage, Why Choose (FMMM), Mafia Romance/Crime Family, Enemies-to-Lovers, Surveillance/Voyeurism Elements, Cliffhanger, Cinnamon Roll MMC, "My wife", Feminine Rage, Grumpy x Sunshine, Slow-Burn to Scorching, Multiple POV, Yearning, Shared History, Arranged Marriage, Possessiveness, Runaway Bride, Brothers, Fast Burn -> Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Poly (3+ People), Contemporary, Funny, MF Romance, Marriage of Convenience, Competent FMC, Independent FMC, Alpha Male, Possessive FMC, Bodyguard/Protector MMC.
Symphony of Sorrow is the 1st book in the Empire of Pain Series by Ava Summers.
I found from the very beginning of this story I was enthralled by this story and right away the entire story leaned into the chaos, humor, and the sharp-tongued desire to survive. And the whole reason this story works so well is because of Chiara.
I have to admit that I just loved Chiara. She is this bold, sarcastic, and she manages to be this endlessly entertaining FMC who turns what could have been this heavy mafia setup into something that was really very genuinely fun to read. And Chiara’s inner monologue, some of her inner monologue was honestly laugh-out-loud funny, and yet I found that there was so much heart under all that attitude that makes it so much easier to cheer her on.
After Chiara’s father passes away, Chiara’s entire life as she knew it was ripped out from under her and her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi. Angelo is the heir to a powerful mafia family.
Chiara had never planned on getting married, and she had never planned to submit to anyone, let alone her husband, so rather than bowing to her stepmother or her new husband she does the one and only thing that makes sense to her: she runs.
Chiara manages to remain free from both her stepmother and her husbands grasp for a year before she is found and dragged back into the very world that she attempted to escape from, and she’s taken straight back to her husband. And the man delivering her to the man she sees as her captor is his righ-hand man and enforcer, Kane.
Angelo: he’s the intimidating kind of character, at least on the surface, yet as you get to know him, he slowly starts to reveal his layers. He starts off as this cold, dominant, devastatingly attractive man, yet what you don’t know or see right away is that he’s truly been in love with Chiara since they were children. For Angelo, divorce is not an option, and neither is letting her walk or run away again.
Even though he has this gruff, tough, domineering exterior, you slowly start to see his true devotion and how truly protective he is towards Chiara though in so many ways that makes him so very hard not to like, even when Chiara herself refuses to see it when it’s plain to see on Angelo’s face.
Then we have Luca: we see that his charm actually hides far more than it really reveals. We see that Luca uses his humor and flirting as his armor, masking a deep insecurity and all his emotional scars that run deep but can’t be seen.
I loved watching Chiara challenge, defend, and help him see that he really did have his own worth and I loved how this added such a beautiful unexpectedly tender layer to this story, and it was one that I never expected. The dynamic between Chiara and Luca was messy, complicated, and quietly emotional and in all the emotional mess it was also stunningly beautiful.
Kane: I think he was actually the one character that I found to be the most intriguing out of all the MMCs. Yes, he was dangerous, disciplined, and of course he was loyal to a fault. I found that Kane was caught between duty and desire, and I could see that he was struggling between his feelings for Chiara that he knew he shouldn’t be feeling. And yet, the tension he shares with Chiara just sizzles off the page, and the hints of his backstory we get make it next to impossible not to want to get more from him and more from his perspective in the next book.
The over arching romance is this beautiful slow-burn, the chemistry is off the charts and is intense, and Ava has written all the relationships that are all tangled together in only the best possible ways. Add in the looming threat against the Di Rossi family, an enemy who is working from the dark shadows, and there’s a solid plot and sub-plot driving the storyline forward right alongside the heat and spice.
And that ending? That ending was perfectly ruthless. Symphony of Sorrow closes on this cliffhanger that really should come with some kind of a trigger warning, a warning label, or just a warning in general as it’s just a mean old nasty cliffhanger.
I am going to say that this is the story for the reader who will truly appreciate high-stakes tension, a FMC with a backbone of steel. Readers who like to watch dynamics that are handled with a refined, provocative touch that elevates the narrative into something so very cinematic and so deeply immersive.
I loved watching Chiara reclaim her autonomy and agency, relax by the pool, relax naked in bed, or spread over the kitchen table; this was truly the great journey in reclaiming power in the most scandalous blush inducing way possible.
If you’re looking for a gritty exploration of getting even by what ever means necessary. Then this is the silk sheets, spilled red wine, hidden dagger you’ve been in search of and I can’t recommend it enough.
She hates his guts.
After Chiara’s stepmother sold her like a prize cow, she ran away before the ink had even dried on the marriage certificate.
One year later, she’s dragged back to the marital home and locked in a gilded cage.
Angelo Di Rossi might make Chiara’s pulse race when he threatens to punish her for her transgressions, but she’ll never forgive him for ruining her life.
And she’s not too happy with Kane, Angelo’s enforcer. That a-hole may be dangerously sexy but calling her kitten and acting like he cares about her safety means nothing.
Luka, the deliciously pretty black sheep of the family, and Angelo’s younger half-brother, is Chiara’s only solace with his flirty banter and smoking hot abs.
Unfortunately for Angelo, she’s not the submissive mafia wife he expected.
Chiara’s beloved husband might think it’s acceptable to keep her under 24/7 surveillance.
But cameras work both ways, and with Luka’s help, she’s happy to put on a show for him and Kane.
They both like to watch her.
Relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, spread over the kitchen table…
Instead of getting angry, Chiara plana to get even.
By fair means or foul.
---
Symphony of Sorrow is book one in a MFMM (no MM) why choose mafia romance duet where the FMC does not have to choose between her three love interests. Book one ends on a cliffhanger but book two has a HEA. For triggers, check the content note at the beginning of the book.
If you enjoy dark romance with banter and a strong FMC, you'll love this book!
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Forced Marriage/Arranged Marriage, Why Choose (FMMM), Mafia Romance/Crime Family, Enemies-to-Lovers, Surveillance/Voyeurism Elements, Cliffhanger, Cinnamon Roll MMC, "My wife", Feminine Rage, Grumpy x Sunshine, Slow-Burn to Scorching, Multiple POV, Yearning, Shared History, Arranged Marriage, Possessiveness, Runaway Bride, Brothers, Fast Burn -> Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Poly (3+ People), Contemporary, Funny, MF Romance, Marriage of Convenience, Competent FMC, Independent FMC, Alpha Male, Possessive FMC, Bodyguard/Protector MMC.
Symphony of Sorrow is the 1st book in the Empire of Pain Series by Ava Summers.
I found from the very beginning of this story I was enthralled by this story and right away the entire story leaned into the chaos, humor, and the sharp-tongued desire to survive. And the whole reason this story works so well is because of Chiara.
I have to admit that I just loved Chiara. She is this bold, sarcastic, and she manages to be this endlessly entertaining FMC who turns what could have been this heavy mafia setup into something that was really very genuinely fun to read. And Chiara’s inner monologue, some of her inner monologue was honestly laugh-out-loud funny, and yet I found that there was so much heart under all that attitude that makes it so much easier to cheer her on.
After Chiara’s father passes away, Chiara’s entire life as she knew it was ripped out from under her and her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi. Angelo is the heir to a powerful mafia family.
Chiara had never planned on getting married, and she had never planned to submit to anyone, let alone her husband, so rather than bowing to her stepmother or her new husband she does the one and only thing that makes sense to her: she runs.
Chiara manages to remain free from both her stepmother and her husbands grasp for a year before she is found and dragged back into the very world that she attempted to escape from, and she’s taken straight back to her husband. And the man delivering her to the man she sees as her captor is his righ-hand man and enforcer, Kane.
Angelo: he’s the intimidating kind of character, at least on the surface, yet as you get to know him, he slowly starts to reveal his layers. He starts off as this cold, dominant, devastatingly attractive man, yet what you don’t know or see right away is that he’s truly been in love with Chiara since they were children. For Angelo, divorce is not an option, and neither is letting her walk or run away again.
Even though he has this gruff, tough, domineering exterior, you slowly start to see his true devotion and how truly protective he is towards Chiara though in so many ways that makes him so very hard not to like, even when Chiara herself refuses to see it when it’s plain to see on Angelo’s face.
Then we have Luca: we see that his charm actually hides far more than it really reveals. We see that Luca uses his humor and flirting as his armor, masking a deep insecurity and all his emotional scars that run deep but can’t be seen.
I loved watching Chiara challenge, defend, and help him see that he really did have his own worth and I loved how this added such a beautiful unexpectedly tender layer to this story, and it was one that I never expected. The dynamic between Chiara and Luca was messy, complicated, and quietly emotional and in all the emotional mess it was also stunningly beautiful.
Kane: I think he was actually the one character that I found to be the most intriguing out of all the MMCs. Yes, he was dangerous, disciplined, and of course he was loyal to a fault. I found that Kane was caught between duty and desire, and I could see that he was struggling between his feelings for Chiara that he knew he shouldn’t be feeling. And yet, the tension he shares with Chiara just sizzles off the page, and the hints of his backstory we get make it next to impossible not to want to get more from him and more from his perspective in the next book.
The over arching romance is this beautiful slow-burn, the chemistry is off the charts and is intense, and Ava has written all the relationships that are all tangled together in only the best possible ways. Add in the looming threat against the Di Rossi family, an enemy who is working from the dark shadows, and there’s a solid plot and sub-plot driving the storyline forward right alongside the heat and spice.
And that ending? That ending was perfectly ruthless. Symphony of Sorrow closes on this cliffhanger that really should come with some kind of a trigger warning, a warning label, or just a warning in general as it’s just a mean old nasty cliffhanger.
I am going to say that this is the story for the reader who will truly appreciate high-stakes tension, a FMC with a backbone of steel. Readers who like to watch dynamics that are handled with a refined, provocative touch that elevates the narrative into something so very cinematic and so deeply immersive.
I loved watching Chiara reclaim her autonomy and agency, relax by the pool, relax naked in bed, or spread over the kitchen table; this was truly the great journey in reclaiming power in the most scandalous blush inducing way possible.
If you’re looking for a gritty exploration of getting even by what ever means necessary. Then this is the silk sheets, spilled red wine, hidden dagger you’ve been in search of and I can’t recommend it enough.
January 20, 2026
Symphony of Sorrow is a dark, messy, emotionally charged mafia romance that leans hard into obsession, power, and blurred loyalties.
The story opens with Chiara planning her escape from a marriage forced on her by her stepmother. She’s been promised to Angelo di Rossi, a mafia heir who needs a compliant wife and an heir, while her stepmother needs the money. Chiara refuses to be traded like property and escapes by knocking out a maid and stealing her uniform. It’s a strong opening that immediately sets the tone for her desperation and resilience.
A year later, Chiara is working at a bar, trying to live quietly under the radar. When she notices a man she’s drawn to, panic sets in and she flees, terrified he might be connected to the life she ran from. Unfortunately, she’s right to be cautious. She’s captured and brought back, not by Angelo himself, but by his best friend Kane, who knocks her out and delivers her straight back into the world she tried to escape.
Back in Angelo’s orbit, the tension ramps up quickly. Angelo is cold, controlling, and clearly sees Chiara as his wife and possession, even though their marriage was never built on consent. Things get even more complicated with the introduction of Luka, Angelo’s brother, who is openly drawn to Chiara. Their connection grows quietly through shared time, comfort, and understanding, even after Angelo warns them both to stay away from each other. When Chiara and Luka cross that line, it’s not just about rebellion anymore—it’s emotional, messy, and full of consequences.
Kane adds another unsettling layer to the story. As head of security, he has access to the house cameras and uses them to watch Chiara, blurring boundaries in a way that feels voyeuristic and predatory. The moment when Chiara subtly calls him out for watching her is chilling and shows that she’s more aware and sharper than anyone gives her credit for. The reveal that Angelo is also watching her reinforces just how trapped and monitored she truly is.
As Chiara continues planning for divorce and escape, emotions clash. Luka is visibly affected by the idea of losing her, Kane wants her for himself, and Angelo refuses to share what he considers his. An old agreement between Angelo and Kane about sharing women adds fuel to the fire, but Angelo draws the line when it comes to Chiara—he wants her entirely for himself.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving relationships fractured, loyalties uncertain, and Chiara still caught between control, desire, and survival.
Symphony of Sorrow is dark, intense, and layered with obsession, betrayal, and power struggles. It’s not a soft romance—it’s gritty, uncomfortable at times, and intentionally chaotic. If you enjoy mafia stories with love triangles, morally gray men, and a heroine trying to reclaim control in a world determined to own her, this one will definitely pull you in—just be ready for that cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
From the very first chapter, this story leans hard into chaos, humor, and sharp-tongued survival, and Chiara is the reason it works so well. She’s bold, sarcastic, and endlessly entertaining, turning what could have been a heavy mafia setup into something genuinely fun to read. Her inner monologue is laugh-out-loud funny, but there’s also heart beneath the attitude that makes it easy to root for her.
After her father’s death, Chiara’s life is ripped out from under her when her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi, heir to a powerful mafia family. Marriage was never part of Chiara’s plan, submission even less so, so she does the only thing that makes sense to her: she runs. For a year, she manages to stay free before being dragged back into the world she tried to escape, delivered straight to her husband by his right-hand man and enforcer, Kane.
Angelo is the kind of character that looks intimidating on the surface but slowly reveals layers. Cold, dominant, and devastatingly attractive, he’s also been quietly in love with Chiara since childhood. Divorce isn’t an option to him, and neither is letting her walk away again. Despite his gruff exterior, his devotion and protectiveness show through in ways that make him impossible not to like, even when Chiara refuses to see it.
Then there’s Luca, whose charm hides far more than it reveals. He uses humor and flirting as armor, masking deep insecurity and emotional scars. Watching Chiara challenge him, defend him, and help him see his own worth adds an unexpectedly tender layer to the story. Their dynamic is messy, complicated, and quietly emotional.
Kane might be the most intriguing of them all. Dangerous, disciplined, and loyal to a fault, he’s caught between duty and desire, clearly struggling with feelings he knows he shouldn’t have. His tension with Chiara crackles, and the hints of his backstory make it impossible not to want more from his perspective in the next installment.
The romance is slow-burn, the chemistry is intense, and the relationships are tangled in the best possible way. Add in a looming threat against the Di Rossi family and an enemy working from the shadows, and there’s a solid plot driving the story forward alongside the heat.
The ending? Absolutely ruthless. This book closes on a cliffhanger that should come with a warning label.
Symphony of Sorrow is the opening to the Empire of Pain duet, and it delivers a mix of humor, tension, spice, and emotional depth without feeling overstuffed or repetitive. Even for someone new to mafia romance, it’s an easy story to sink into, fast-paced, immersive, and impossible to put down.
Between the strong writing, vivid characters, and nonstop momentum, this book turns you into a fan before you even realize it. Sleep may be lost, patience will be tested waiting for book two, and honestly? Worth it.
After her father’s death, Chiara’s life is ripped out from under her when her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi, heir to a powerful mafia family. Marriage was never part of Chiara’s plan, submission even less so, so she does the only thing that makes sense to her: she runs. For a year, she manages to stay free before being dragged back into the world she tried to escape, delivered straight to her husband by his right-hand man and enforcer, Kane.
Angelo is the kind of character that looks intimidating on the surface but slowly reveals layers. Cold, dominant, and devastatingly attractive, he’s also been quietly in love with Chiara since childhood. Divorce isn’t an option to him, and neither is letting her walk away again. Despite his gruff exterior, his devotion and protectiveness show through in ways that make him impossible not to like, even when Chiara refuses to see it.
Then there’s Luca, whose charm hides far more than it reveals. He uses humor and flirting as armor, masking deep insecurity and emotional scars. Watching Chiara challenge him, defend him, and help him see his own worth adds an unexpectedly tender layer to the story. Their dynamic is messy, complicated, and quietly emotional.
Kane might be the most intriguing of them all. Dangerous, disciplined, and loyal to a fault, he’s caught between duty and desire, clearly struggling with feelings he knows he shouldn’t have. His tension with Chiara crackles, and the hints of his backstory make it impossible not to want more from his perspective in the next installment.
The romance is slow-burn, the chemistry is intense, and the relationships are tangled in the best possible way. Add in a looming threat against the Di Rossi family and an enemy working from the shadows, and there’s a solid plot driving the story forward alongside the heat.
The ending? Absolutely ruthless. This book closes on a cliffhanger that should come with a warning label.
Symphony of Sorrow is the opening to the Empire of Pain duet, and it delivers a mix of humor, tension, spice, and emotional depth without feeling overstuffed or repetitive. Even for someone new to mafia romance, it’s an easy story to sink into, fast-paced, immersive, and impossible to put down.
Between the strong writing, vivid characters, and nonstop momentum, this book turns you into a fan before you even realize it. Sleep may be lost, patience will be tested waiting for book two, and honestly? Worth it.
January 29, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for a mafia romance where the FMC is a defiant force of nature, Symphony of Sorrow by Ava Summers certainly delivers—though your patience for her might be tested more than the hero’s is. The story opens with a classic, dark visual: a "prize cow" bride running from a marriage certificate, only to be dragged back a year later into a luxury mansion that serves as a high-tech, gilded cage. The atmosphere is thick with the hum of 24/7 surveillance cameras and the heavy, brooding presence of the Di Rossi family power. 🏛️📹
The dynamic here is a bit of a head-scratcher for traditional mafia fans. Chiara, the FMC, is determined to hate her husband, Angelo, regardless of the fact that he’s actually quite respectful for a crime boss who’s been in love with her for years. While Angelo is playing the long game with a very slow burn, Chiara often comes off as a bit of a tiresome diva, refusing to give him an inch even as she starts a "show" for the cameras with his half-brother, Luka, and his enforcer, Kane. It creates an interesting "Why Choose" tension, but you might find yourself wondering why a "real" mafia boss hasn't handled the family betrayal with a bit more lethality.
Kane, the dangerously sexy enforcer, and Luka, the "pretty" black sheep, provide the necessary heat and distraction, but the heart of the story remains the friction between Chiara’s childish rebellion and Angelo’s patient obsession. The book builds this complex, multi-layered web of attraction only to drop you off a cliff with a major cliffhanger. If you don't mind a "bratty" FMC and a hero who is perhaps a bit too nice for his own good, this is an intriguing start—just be prepared to wait for the sequel to see if Chiara finally finds some redemption. 🎻🥀
The Tropes
💍 Forced Marriage / Arranged Marriage
👥 Why Choose / Reverse Harem (FMMM)
🇮🇹 Mafia Romance / Crime Family
😠 Enemies to Lovers
📹 Surveillance / Voyeurism Elements
🧗 Cliffhanger Ending
TL;DR: A slow-burn mafia romance with a "Why Choose" twist and a very defiant heroine. While the FMC can be a bit of a diva, the chemistry between her and the three men in the house keeps things moving—until that frustrating cliffhanger hits.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for a mafia romance where the FMC is a defiant force of nature, Symphony of Sorrow by Ava Summers certainly delivers—though your patience for her might be tested more than the hero’s is. The story opens with a classic, dark visual: a "prize cow" bride running from a marriage certificate, only to be dragged back a year later into a luxury mansion that serves as a high-tech, gilded cage. The atmosphere is thick with the hum of 24/7 surveillance cameras and the heavy, brooding presence of the Di Rossi family power. 🏛️📹
The dynamic here is a bit of a head-scratcher for traditional mafia fans. Chiara, the FMC, is determined to hate her husband, Angelo, regardless of the fact that he’s actually quite respectful for a crime boss who’s been in love with her for years. While Angelo is playing the long game with a very slow burn, Chiara often comes off as a bit of a tiresome diva, refusing to give him an inch even as she starts a "show" for the cameras with his half-brother, Luka, and his enforcer, Kane. It creates an interesting "Why Choose" tension, but you might find yourself wondering why a "real" mafia boss hasn't handled the family betrayal with a bit more lethality.
Kane, the dangerously sexy enforcer, and Luka, the "pretty" black sheep, provide the necessary heat and distraction, but the heart of the story remains the friction between Chiara’s childish rebellion and Angelo’s patient obsession. The book builds this complex, multi-layered web of attraction only to drop you off a cliff with a major cliffhanger. If you don't mind a "bratty" FMC and a hero who is perhaps a bit too nice for his own good, this is an intriguing start—just be prepared to wait for the sequel to see if Chiara finally finds some redemption. 🎻🥀
The Tropes
💍 Forced Marriage / Arranged Marriage
👥 Why Choose / Reverse Harem (FMMM)
🇮🇹 Mafia Romance / Crime Family
😠 Enemies to Lovers
📹 Surveillance / Voyeurism Elements
🧗 Cliffhanger Ending
TL;DR: A slow-burn mafia romance with a "Why Choose" twist and a very defiant heroine. While the FMC can be a bit of a diva, the chemistry between her and the three men in the house keeps things moving—until that frustrating cliffhanger hits.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There is something undeniably intoxicating about a gilded cage when you’re the one holding the key to the locks. 🏰 Symphony of Sorrow isn't just a traditional mafia romance; it’s a masterclass in feminine defiance and the delicious, forbidden thrill of being watched. 🍷 We follow a heroine who was sold like a prize cow, only to realize that while the Di Rossi men may own the house, she owns the atmosphere. 🥀📜 Dragged back to a life of luxury and constant surveillance after a year on the run, she turns the cameras, and the family, against themselves in a game that is as dark as it is elegant.💎 It is unapologetically bold, proving that even under 24/7 surveillance, a woman with a plan is the most dangerous person in the room. ♟️💋🥂
The tension within the Di Rossi household is built upon a complex trinity of men who are as lethal as they are alluring. ⚔️🖤 Angelo, the cold and powerful heir, expects a submissive wife but finds himself haunted by a woman who turns his threats of punishment into a source of power 🖤🥀✨. Then there is Kane, the brooding enforcer whose kitten endearments and protective instincts create a jagged, dangerously sexy edge that cuts through the silence. Providing a necessary solace is Luka, the flirty black sheep and Angelo’s half-brother, who serves as both an accomplice and a beautiful distraction with his flirty banter and smoking hot presence. 🚬🔥 Together, they create a volatile environment where the lines between hatred and desire are perpetually blurred. ❤️🔥🖤
This story is truly for the reader who appreciates high-stakes tension and a heroine with a backbone of steel.🔪 They like to watch dynamic is handled with a refined, provocative touch that elevates the narrative into something cinematic and deeply immersive. 🎬🎞️ Watching her reclaim her agency, whether relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, or spread over the kitchen table, was a journey in reclaiming power in the most scandalous way possible. It is a gritty exploration of getting even by any means necessary. 🩸🥀 This is silk sheets, spilled red wine, and a hidden dagger personified. 🥂💎✨
The tension within the Di Rossi household is built upon a complex trinity of men who are as lethal as they are alluring. ⚔️🖤 Angelo, the cold and powerful heir, expects a submissive wife but finds himself haunted by a woman who turns his threats of punishment into a source of power 🖤🥀✨. Then there is Kane, the brooding enforcer whose kitten endearments and protective instincts create a jagged, dangerously sexy edge that cuts through the silence. Providing a necessary solace is Luka, the flirty black sheep and Angelo’s half-brother, who serves as both an accomplice and a beautiful distraction with his flirty banter and smoking hot presence. 🚬🔥 Together, they create a volatile environment where the lines between hatred and desire are perpetually blurred. ❤️🔥🖤
This story is truly for the reader who appreciates high-stakes tension and a heroine with a backbone of steel.🔪 They like to watch dynamic is handled with a refined, provocative touch that elevates the narrative into something cinematic and deeply immersive. 🎬🎞️ Watching her reclaim her agency, whether relaxing by the pool, naked in bed, or spread over the kitchen table, was a journey in reclaiming power in the most scandalous way possible. It is a gritty exploration of getting even by any means necessary. 🩸🥀 This is silk sheets, spilled red wine, and a hidden dagger personified. 🥂💎✨
Review of advance copy
Let me start by saying I always quantify a good book if I couldn't put it down even at the risk of losing sleep. Here I am at 3:22 AM having finished a nonstop reading marathon. of Symphony of Sorrow: Empire of Pain: Book 1. I'm exhausted, my vision is blurry and I'm sure this review is full of typos, but I couldn't wait until later to talk about this.
With that being said, I've never heard of this author before seeing Symphony of Sorrow as an option for an advanced copy. the cover grabbed me and the synapsis peaked my interest. However, Ava Summers has now been added to my list of favorite Authors. I have read mafia romances in the past, but lately RH paranormal romances have been my go to. I think I just might get back into the mafia romances again. I'm definitely a fan now and I'm gonna check out some of Ms Summers books as well as her social media so that I can follow her.
As far as Symphony of Sorrow goes this book had a little bit of action, especially at the end and yes it ends in a big cliffhanger. Also, there was romance including some mildly steamy scenes, budding relationships, the snarky, "I am a woman scorned hear me roar" female lead. The brooding "I really love you and secret and have been pining after you for years" male lead, comedy, a little bit of sadness surrounding some of the events in the characters past and present, a lot of character building in terms of connections being made with shared past stories and more. Overall, this is a good start to a new series. It's well rounded and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading them next book. I'd love to see what happens next.
Oh, by the way, I've had the pleasure of receiving an advanced copy to review for free, and I am leaving an honest review of my own volition.
I hope it's review makes sense once again. My brain has stopped functioning long ago. It's a great start to take my word for it. Give it a try.
With that being said, I've never heard of this author before seeing Symphony of Sorrow as an option for an advanced copy. the cover grabbed me and the synapsis peaked my interest. However, Ava Summers has now been added to my list of favorite Authors. I have read mafia romances in the past, but lately RH paranormal romances have been my go to. I think I just might get back into the mafia romances again. I'm definitely a fan now and I'm gonna check out some of Ms Summers books as well as her social media so that I can follow her.
As far as Symphony of Sorrow goes this book had a little bit of action, especially at the end and yes it ends in a big cliffhanger. Also, there was romance including some mildly steamy scenes, budding relationships, the snarky, "I am a woman scorned hear me roar" female lead. The brooding "I really love you and secret and have been pining after you for years" male lead, comedy, a little bit of sadness surrounding some of the events in the characters past and present, a lot of character building in terms of connections being made with shared past stories and more. Overall, this is a good start to a new series. It's well rounded and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading them next book. I'd love to see what happens next.
Oh, by the way, I've had the pleasure of receiving an advanced copy to review for free, and I am leaving an honest review of my own volition.
I hope it's review makes sense once again. My brain has stopped functioning long ago. It's a great start to take my word for it. Give it a try.
January 19, 2026
I absolutely loved and devoured this! What a solid why choose mafia romance.
Chiara is hilarious and makes this mafia romance novel fun. Her POV will have you laughing and rooting for her in equal measure. Chiara’s father dies and she is sold off for marriage by her step mother (think Cinderella but on crack) to a mafia heir, Angelo. Obviously, this was not Chiara’s life dream and she is furious. She escapes after the wedding and lives on the run before she is inevitably caught and brought back to her husband.
Angelo has been in love with Chiara since they were children and has always wanted her. He refuses to annul the marriage or divorce her and will obviously never let her go. The marriage deal her step mother, Vivian arranged included giving Angelo an heir. Angelo is a super hot, tall, dark, handsome, dominant guy who is actually a big softie and would do anything for the people he loves which he shows from time to time. I love this character. He comes across grumpy and broody and I can’t wait for the next book where hopefully he and Chiara will come together.
Luka is a traumatized young man who uses flirty banter to hide his depression and other mental health struggles. Despite being super hot, funny and charming, he has less than zero self esteem. Chiara helps build him up, give him more confidence and stands up for him when he won’t do it for himself.
Kane is fascinating. The mafia enforcer who is clearly falling for his best friends wife. I hope that we get more of Kanes back story and learn more about him in the next book.
This book is smutty, funny and a great time with a pretty solid plot running at the same time. There is clearly a big hidden enemy trying to bring the Di Rossi family down and they’re trying to figure out who it is while being actively sabotaged.
That cliffhanger was absolutely criminal.
I received this ARC and am beyond thrilled that I had the opportunity to read this.
5⭐️
3🌶️
Chiara is hilarious and makes this mafia romance novel fun. Her POV will have you laughing and rooting for her in equal measure. Chiara’s father dies and she is sold off for marriage by her step mother (think Cinderella but on crack) to a mafia heir, Angelo. Obviously, this was not Chiara’s life dream and she is furious. She escapes after the wedding and lives on the run before she is inevitably caught and brought back to her husband.
Angelo has been in love with Chiara since they were children and has always wanted her. He refuses to annul the marriage or divorce her and will obviously never let her go. The marriage deal her step mother, Vivian arranged included giving Angelo an heir. Angelo is a super hot, tall, dark, handsome, dominant guy who is actually a big softie and would do anything for the people he loves which he shows from time to time. I love this character. He comes across grumpy and broody and I can’t wait for the next book where hopefully he and Chiara will come together.
Luka is a traumatized young man who uses flirty banter to hide his depression and other mental health struggles. Despite being super hot, funny and charming, he has less than zero self esteem. Chiara helps build him up, give him more confidence and stands up for him when he won’t do it for himself.
Kane is fascinating. The mafia enforcer who is clearly falling for his best friends wife. I hope that we get more of Kanes back story and learn more about him in the next book.
This book is smutty, funny and a great time with a pretty solid plot running at the same time. There is clearly a big hidden enemy trying to bring the Di Rossi family down and they’re trying to figure out who it is while being actively sabotaged.
That cliffhanger was absolutely criminal.
I received this ARC and am beyond thrilled that I had the opportunity to read this.
5⭐️
3🌶️
March 2, 2026
Enjoyable
Let me start by saying I always quantify a good book if I couldn't put it down even at the risk of losing sleep. Here I am at 3:22 AM having finished a nonstop reading marathon. of Symphony of Sorrow: Empire of Pain: Book 1. I'm exhausted, my vision is blurry and I'm sure this review is full of typos, but I couldn't wait until later to talk about this.
With that being said, I've never heard of this author before seeing Symphony of Sorrow as an option for an advanced copy. the cover grabbed me and the synapsis peaked my interest. However, Ava Summers has now been added to my list of favorite Authors. I have read mafia romances in the past, but lately RH paranormal romances have been my go to. I think I just might get back into the mafia romances again. I'm definitely a fan now and I'm gonna check out some of Ms Summers books as well as her social media so that I can follow her.
As far as Symphony of Sorrow goes this book had a little bit of action, especially at the end and yes it ends in a big cliffhanger. Also, there was romance including some mildly steamy scenes, budding relationships, the snarky, "I am a woman scorned hear me roar" female lead. The brooding "I really love you and secret and have been pining after you for years" male lead, comedy, a little bit of sadness surrounding some of the events in the characters past and present, a lot of character building in terms of connections being made with shared past stories and more. Overall, this is a good start to a new series. It's well rounded and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading them next book. I'd love to see what happens next.
Oh, by the way, I've had the pleasure of receiving an advanced copy to review for free, and I am leaving an honest review of my own volition.
I hope it's review makes sense once again. My brain has stopped functioning long ago. It's a great start to take my word for it. Give it a try.
Let me start by saying I always quantify a good book if I couldn't put it down even at the risk of losing sleep. Here I am at 3:22 AM having finished a nonstop reading marathon. of Symphony of Sorrow: Empire of Pain: Book 1. I'm exhausted, my vision is blurry and I'm sure this review is full of typos, but I couldn't wait until later to talk about this.
With that being said, I've never heard of this author before seeing Symphony of Sorrow as an option for an advanced copy. the cover grabbed me and the synapsis peaked my interest. However, Ava Summers has now been added to my list of favorite Authors. I have read mafia romances in the past, but lately RH paranormal romances have been my go to. I think I just might get back into the mafia romances again. I'm definitely a fan now and I'm gonna check out some of Ms Summers books as well as her social media so that I can follow her.
As far as Symphony of Sorrow goes this book had a little bit of action, especially at the end and yes it ends in a big cliffhanger. Also, there was romance including some mildly steamy scenes, budding relationships, the snarky, "I am a woman scorned hear me roar" female lead. The brooding "I really love you and secret and have been pining after you for years" male lead, comedy, a little bit of sadness surrounding some of the events in the characters past and present, a lot of character building in terms of connections being made with shared past stories and more. Overall, this is a good start to a new series. It's well rounded and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading them next book. I'd love to see what happens next.
Oh, by the way, I've had the pleasure of receiving an advanced copy to review for free, and I am leaving an honest review of my own volition.
I hope it's review makes sense once again. My brain has stopped functioning long ago. It's a great start to take my word for it. Give it a try.
March 2, 2026
Symphony of Sorrows by Ava Summers is toxic, dramatic, camera-filled chaos… and I ate it up.
3.75⭐
"My husband is rich.
Hot.
Heir to the Di Rossi crime family.
And I hate him."
From the jump, this story gives gilded cage energy with forced marriage, runaway bride, dragged back a year later to a mansion humming with 24/7 surveillance. The tension? THICK. The banter? Sharp. The vibes? Dark, glossy, and just unhinged enough.
Angelo is playing the long game... broody, obsessed, surprisingly respectful for a literal mafia boss in love for years.
Meanwhile, our girl Chiara is committed to hating him with Olympic-level dedication. And listen… I love a defiant FMC. I do. But toward the end? Sis tested my patience a little 😅 She was so focused on revenge and rebellion that she kind of steamrolled over his efforts. (To be fair… he didn’t exactly make things easy either.)
And then we have Kane 👀 the dangerously sexy enforcer calling her kitten (sir???), and Luka was the pretty black sheep with flirty banter and abs that deserve their own POV.
The why choose tension? Delicious.
The surveillance/voyeurism elements? Bold.
The enemies-to-lovers friction? Chef’s kiss.
That said, the multiple POVs sometimes felt a little disjointed. Like all the pieces were there… they just weren’t always fully glued together between chapters. It didn’t ruin the story for me, but I did feel it.
BUT LET’S TALK ABOUT THAT CLIFFHANGER.
Ma’am.
The way this book just casually shoved me off a ledge?? I will absolutely be back for book two because I need to see how this chaos symphony resolves.
If you love:
🖤 Mafia romance
🖤 Arranged/forced marriage
🖤 Why choose (MFMM, no MM)
🖤 A bratty, rebellious FMC
🖤 A patient, obsessed hero
🖤 High drama + high heat
You’ll want this on your radar.
Overall? Messy. Dramatic. Slightly frustrating. Very bingeable. And I’m absolutely curious enough to continue the duet.
A huge thank you to NetGalley & the author for this ARC in exchange for my review. 🫶🏽
3.75⭐
"My husband is rich.
Hot.
Heir to the Di Rossi crime family.
And I hate him."
From the jump, this story gives gilded cage energy with forced marriage, runaway bride, dragged back a year later to a mansion humming with 24/7 surveillance. The tension? THICK. The banter? Sharp. The vibes? Dark, glossy, and just unhinged enough.
Angelo is playing the long game... broody, obsessed, surprisingly respectful for a literal mafia boss in love for years.
Meanwhile, our girl Chiara is committed to hating him with Olympic-level dedication. And listen… I love a defiant FMC. I do. But toward the end? Sis tested my patience a little 😅 She was so focused on revenge and rebellion that she kind of steamrolled over his efforts. (To be fair… he didn’t exactly make things easy either.)
And then we have Kane 👀 the dangerously sexy enforcer calling her kitten (sir???), and Luka was the pretty black sheep with flirty banter and abs that deserve their own POV.
The why choose tension? Delicious.
The surveillance/voyeurism elements? Bold.
The enemies-to-lovers friction? Chef’s kiss.
That said, the multiple POVs sometimes felt a little disjointed. Like all the pieces were there… they just weren’t always fully glued together between chapters. It didn’t ruin the story for me, but I did feel it.
BUT LET’S TALK ABOUT THAT CLIFFHANGER.
Ma’am.
The way this book just casually shoved me off a ledge?? I will absolutely be back for book two because I need to see how this chaos symphony resolves.
If you love:
🖤 Mafia romance
🖤 Arranged/forced marriage
🖤 Why choose (MFMM, no MM)
🖤 A bratty, rebellious FMC
🖤 A patient, obsessed hero
🖤 High drama + high heat
You’ll want this on your radar.
Overall? Messy. Dramatic. Slightly frustrating. Very bingeable. And I’m absolutely curious enough to continue the duet.
A huge thank you to NetGalley & the author for this ARC in exchange for my review. 🫶🏽
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book had no business being this addictive.
I picked this up expecting a casual read and instead inhaled it in one sitting. It’s fast, dramatic, and ridiculously easy to binge—the kind of story where you say one more chapter and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
At the center is Chiara, who is pushed into an arranged marriage she never asked for and immediately decides she will not be going quietly. She disappears right after the wedding, stays gone for a year, and when she’s finally dragged back into her husband’s world… she chooses chaos over compliance.
Rather than falling in line, Chiara starts pressing every possible button—especially the ones labeled off-limits. Her husband is cold, powerful, and very much not used to being challenged. His younger brother comes with unresolved family tension. The head of security? Dangerous, loyal, and entirely too tempting. The result is constant tension, layered jealousy, and a lot of are we really doing this right now? energy 🌶️
This book thrives on yearning and power plays. Everyone wants control. No one is emotionally honest. The chemistry simmers instead of exploding, which somehow makes it hotter. And just when you think you know where the romance is headed—nope. Suddenly there are options. Plural.
Expect:
– Arranged marriage drama
– Possessive, morally questionable men
– A bold FMC who refuses to be intimidated
– Messy relationships and unresolved feelings
– Enough tension to keep you guessing the entire time
And yes—there are multiple potential love interests, and I am absolutely not mad about it. The ending leaves everything wide open, answers nothing, and ends on a cliffhanger that feels personal.
Bottom line: this is a high-drama, fast-paced mafia romance built for readers who like their stories messy, their characters complicated, and their romantic tension unresolved. I will be seated for book two.
This book had no business being this addictive.
I picked this up expecting a casual read and instead inhaled it in one sitting. It’s fast, dramatic, and ridiculously easy to binge—the kind of story where you say one more chapter and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
At the center is Chiara, who is pushed into an arranged marriage she never asked for and immediately decides she will not be going quietly. She disappears right after the wedding, stays gone for a year, and when she’s finally dragged back into her husband’s world… she chooses chaos over compliance.
Rather than falling in line, Chiara starts pressing every possible button—especially the ones labeled off-limits. Her husband is cold, powerful, and very much not used to being challenged. His younger brother comes with unresolved family tension. The head of security? Dangerous, loyal, and entirely too tempting. The result is constant tension, layered jealousy, and a lot of are we really doing this right now? energy 🌶️
This book thrives on yearning and power plays. Everyone wants control. No one is emotionally honest. The chemistry simmers instead of exploding, which somehow makes it hotter. And just when you think you know where the romance is headed—nope. Suddenly there are options. Plural.
Expect:
– Arranged marriage drama
– Possessive, morally questionable men
– A bold FMC who refuses to be intimidated
– Messy relationships and unresolved feelings
– Enough tension to keep you guessing the entire time
And yes—there are multiple potential love interests, and I am absolutely not mad about it. The ending leaves everything wide open, answers nothing, and ends on a cliffhanger that feels personal.
Bottom line: this is a high-drama, fast-paced mafia romance built for readers who like their stories messy, their characters complicated, and their romantic tension unresolved. I will be seated for book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2026
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this book and review it honestly!
Symphony of Sorrow is a why choose mafia romance with top tier spice and suspense that ends in a cliffhanger. It is book 1 in the Empire of Pain duet. SoS is available now on Amazon and KU!
This book is lowkey giving Cinderella retelling vibes but make it dark and spicy.
Immediately add to your TBR if you love:
- why choose
- mafia romance
- multiple POV
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
- forced proximity
After Chiara's dad passes away, her evil stepmother sells her to her new husband, who just happens to be a mafia crime boss. She successfully escapes and finds refuge in a small town for over a year, except Angelo refuses to give up so he sends his right-hand man Kane to locate her and reluctantly drags her back to the Di Rossi residence. Unfortunately for Angelo, Chiara is unwilling to be the good little wife and play nicely. She is willing to do whatever it takes to get even and make Angelo as miserable as she is, even if that means making friends with his half-brother Luka and tempting his enforcer Kane.
-Chiara is our FMC and she is giving main character PLUS some. She is a feisty and self-assured baddie who takes zero sh*t and is unapologetically funny. She is so unserious and chaotic at times; I was cackling at her inner (and outer) dialogue the entire time!
-Angelo is possessive and will do anything to get Chiara want to be married to him (except be nice). He also calls her "princess"
-Luka is the black sheep of the family and Angelo's half brother; he gives golden retriever MMC vibes and calls her "cupcake"
-Kane is Angelo's right-hand man or "enforcer;" he is very dominating and protective and calls her "kitten"
This is my first read by Ava and I am dying to jump into book 2!
Symphony of Sorrow is a why choose mafia romance with top tier spice and suspense that ends in a cliffhanger. It is book 1 in the Empire of Pain duet. SoS is available now on Amazon and KU!
This book is lowkey giving Cinderella retelling vibes but make it dark and spicy.
Immediately add to your TBR if you love:
- why choose
- mafia romance
- multiple POV
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
- forced proximity
After Chiara's dad passes away, her evil stepmother sells her to her new husband, who just happens to be a mafia crime boss. She successfully escapes and finds refuge in a small town for over a year, except Angelo refuses to give up so he sends his right-hand man Kane to locate her and reluctantly drags her back to the Di Rossi residence. Unfortunately for Angelo, Chiara is unwilling to be the good little wife and play nicely. She is willing to do whatever it takes to get even and make Angelo as miserable as she is, even if that means making friends with his half-brother Luka and tempting his enforcer Kane.
-Chiara is our FMC and she is giving main character PLUS some. She is a feisty and self-assured baddie who takes zero sh*t and is unapologetically funny. She is so unserious and chaotic at times; I was cackling at her inner (and outer) dialogue the entire time!
-Angelo is possessive and will do anything to get Chiara want to be married to him (except be nice). He also calls her "princess"
-Luka is the black sheep of the family and Angelo's half brother; he gives golden retriever MMC vibes and calls her "cupcake"
-Kane is Angelo's right-hand man or "enforcer;" he is very dominating and protective and calls her "kitten"
This is my first read by Ava and I am dying to jump into book 2!
February 20, 2026
A very enjoyable book from the start.
We have Chiara, who has been on the run since she escaped the day of her arranged marriage, never staying in one place too long for her to be tracked down, or so she thought, but eventually her luck runs out. She is brought back to her husband Angelo, by his head of security and best friend Kane.
Angelo knows that Chiara hates him; she tells him often enough! He knows she is a flight risk; she'll flee the minute she gets a chance. Therefore, he keeps her wings clipped by keeping her under constant surveillance and by providing security escorts if she ventures from the mansion. What he doesn't factor in is how easy she gets on with his younger brother, Luka. How easily she smiles, flirts, and chats with him. Why can't she be that way with him?
Luka, who flirts to hide his insecurities behind a smile and a wink, finds himself captivated by Chiara. How can his big brother not see that if he were just a little more open and receptive to Chiara, instead of trying to dominate her, he might have a happy marriage instead of a war zone!
Kane finds himself drawn to his best friend's wife. He loves her sassiness, her refusal to back down when it comes to Angelo. He knows his friend needs someone strong by his side. But at the same time, he'd love to make this woman submit to him, to take all that brattiness and curb her into submission. Would his best friend share as they have in the past?
Tension runs high in the mansion between all four of them, but Angelo knows that being his wife also puts a target on her back, and when things take a turn for the worse, will he be there to protect her?
This book leaves us on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to read book two of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We have Chiara, who has been on the run since she escaped the day of her arranged marriage, never staying in one place too long for her to be tracked down, or so she thought, but eventually her luck runs out. She is brought back to her husband Angelo, by his head of security and best friend Kane.
Angelo knows that Chiara hates him; she tells him often enough! He knows she is a flight risk; she'll flee the minute she gets a chance. Therefore, he keeps her wings clipped by keeping her under constant surveillance and by providing security escorts if she ventures from the mansion. What he doesn't factor in is how easy she gets on with his younger brother, Luka. How easily she smiles, flirts, and chats with him. Why can't she be that way with him?
Luka, who flirts to hide his insecurities behind a smile and a wink, finds himself captivated by Chiara. How can his big brother not see that if he were just a little more open and receptive to Chiara, instead of trying to dominate her, he might have a happy marriage instead of a war zone!
Kane finds himself drawn to his best friend's wife. He loves her sassiness, her refusal to back down when it comes to Angelo. He knows his friend needs someone strong by his side. But at the same time, he'd love to make this woman submit to him, to take all that brattiness and curb her into submission. Would his best friend share as they have in the past?
Tension runs high in the mansion between all four of them, but Angelo knows that being his wife also puts a target on her back, and when things take a turn for the worse, will he be there to protect her?
This book leaves us on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to read book two of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2026
This is book 1, and let me tell you—I’m still staring at the wall after that ending because the cliffhanger was unhinged. The kind that leaves you desperate, feral, already reaching for book 2 without a single regret 😮💨🖤
We’re dropped straight into the shadows with Angelo, the heir to a ruthless mafia throne, suffocating under his father’s demands to marry and produce an heir. Power, bloodlines, obligation—nothing about his life is truly his. Enter Chiara, the bride chosen for him… and a woman who wants absolutely no part of this fate. The ink is barely dry on their vows before she does the unthinkable—she runs. And that’s when everything starts to unravel.
This is a why choose mafia romance, and the tension is deliciously dangerous. Angelo’s world doesn’t just include him—it includes Luka, his half-brother with his own edge and secrets, and Kane, his private bodyguard and best friend, always watching, always close. Every interaction feels loaded. Every glance feels like it means too much. You can practically taste the betrayal, the desire, the looming violence.
Now, I won’t lie—there were moments where Chiara had me side-eyeing her hard. Some of her choices? Questionable. Some of her behavior? Maddening. But as the story pushes toward the end, things take a sharp, dark turn. What happens to Chiara isn’t just shocking—it’s a warning. And suddenly Angelo isn’t just fighting for control… he’s trying to figure out who is plotting his downfall from the shadows.
Secrets. Blood. Power. A cliffhanger that hits like a gunshot in the dark.
Book 1 sets the trap—and I am absolutely walking into book 2 without hesitation. 🖤🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We’re dropped straight into the shadows with Angelo, the heir to a ruthless mafia throne, suffocating under his father’s demands to marry and produce an heir. Power, bloodlines, obligation—nothing about his life is truly his. Enter Chiara, the bride chosen for him… and a woman who wants absolutely no part of this fate. The ink is barely dry on their vows before she does the unthinkable—she runs. And that’s when everything starts to unravel.
This is a why choose mafia romance, and the tension is deliciously dangerous. Angelo’s world doesn’t just include him—it includes Luka, his half-brother with his own edge and secrets, and Kane, his private bodyguard and best friend, always watching, always close. Every interaction feels loaded. Every glance feels like it means too much. You can practically taste the betrayal, the desire, the looming violence.
Now, I won’t lie—there were moments where Chiara had me side-eyeing her hard. Some of her choices? Questionable. Some of her behavior? Maddening. But as the story pushes toward the end, things take a sharp, dark turn. What happens to Chiara isn’t just shocking—it’s a warning. And suddenly Angelo isn’t just fighting for control… he’s trying to figure out who is plotting his downfall from the shadows.
Secrets. Blood. Power. A cliffhanger that hits like a gunshot in the dark.
Book 1 sets the trap—and I am absolutely walking into book 2 without hesitation. 🖤🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 28, 2026
I'm giving this a 5⭐️ rating!
Oh where to begin... This book, let me say was a hell of a read! I devoured this book! It has a little bit of everything in it. Slow burn but very spicy, banter that was off the chart, and 3 delicious men all vying for the attention of 1 lady. 2 half brother and the best friend. Any dark romance lover that loves Why Choose MMFM, (no MM) will absolutely love this book!
Chiara, the FMC, finds trouble at just about every turn. Her 'evil' stepmother forced her into an arranged marriage with a man with very close ties to the mafia/drug lord, as he is the son of a mafia boss. Angelo, one of the MMCs, has always had a thing for Chiara since they were kids, athough she doesn't remember him as he was a few years older than her.
Chiara escapes on her wedding day after the ceremony and for a year has been moving place to place to keep from being found until one night while at work, Kane, another MMC, and Angelo's best friend, finds her. He's been trying to track her down for almost a year to bring her back.
Chiara is not happy about waking up in her husband mansion and makes it well known. She didnt want to be married but felt she didnt have a choice in the matter. Ignored by the staff at her HUSBANDS demand, she's alone with no one to talk to except for Angelo and Kane.... until she meets Luca, Angelo's half brother and sparks fly... and boy do they ever!
I won't give out any more details as I don't want to spoil it, but as a dark romance girly with a love for WHY CHOOSE, this is a book NOT to miss. It's also book 1 in a duet. I will be reading book 2 very soon for the conclusion of the story. So if this is your kind of book. You'd better buckle up because you are in for a wild ride!
As Always.... HAPPY READING!!!!
Oh where to begin... This book, let me say was a hell of a read! I devoured this book! It has a little bit of everything in it. Slow burn but very spicy, banter that was off the chart, and 3 delicious men all vying for the attention of 1 lady. 2 half brother and the best friend. Any dark romance lover that loves Why Choose MMFM, (no MM) will absolutely love this book!
Chiara, the FMC, finds trouble at just about every turn. Her 'evil' stepmother forced her into an arranged marriage with a man with very close ties to the mafia/drug lord, as he is the son of a mafia boss. Angelo, one of the MMCs, has always had a thing for Chiara since they were kids, athough she doesn't remember him as he was a few years older than her.
Chiara escapes on her wedding day after the ceremony and for a year has been moving place to place to keep from being found until one night while at work, Kane, another MMC, and Angelo's best friend, finds her. He's been trying to track her down for almost a year to bring her back.
Chiara is not happy about waking up in her husband mansion and makes it well known. She didnt want to be married but felt she didnt have a choice in the matter. Ignored by the staff at her HUSBANDS demand, she's alone with no one to talk to except for Angelo and Kane.... until she meets Luca, Angelo's half brother and sparks fly... and boy do they ever!
I won't give out any more details as I don't want to spoil it, but as a dark romance girly with a love for WHY CHOOSE, this is a book NOT to miss. It's also book 1 in a duet. I will be reading book 2 very soon for the conclusion of the story. So if this is your kind of book. You'd better buckle up because you are in for a wild ride!
As Always.... HAPPY READING!!!!
January 8, 2026
3.5 Chiara wasn’t thrilled with her husband when they were married, and distance certainly didn’t make her heart grow fonder; a fact she will be only to happy to remind him of every time she has the misfortune of seeing his irritatingly handsome face.
There’s a lot going on with these characters: family drama, FBI raids, suspicious deaths, spontaneous pet adoption, other women drama, and general chaos (unsurprisingly everyone needs therapy).
This is the first book in a duet. It’s narrated with multiple perspectives, and does leave off on a cliffhanger.
This narrative is well paced, there were a few sections that dragged, but they were minor.
It can be hard to balance a strong female character without portraying her as outright aggressive, and for the most part I think this narrative does a good job of waking that like with Chiara. Chiara does have her moments, but for the most part her reactions don’t feel entirely over done within the world.
Chiara’s inner monologue does have a tendency to spout opinions that seem steeped in “not like the other girls” logic. These opinions/observations are often contradicted or rendered incongruent by the narrative’s attempts to build a relationship between Chiara and Serafina (Fina), Angelo’s sister: girls that find fashion interesting are tedious/boring, but Fina’s into fashion because she’s a badass. Similarly, Chiara’s general thoughts about other women she encounters are frequently uncharitable.
I will be curious to see where this narrative goes, and how the characters might alter their behavior through the course of the final installment.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There’s a lot going on with these characters: family drama, FBI raids, suspicious deaths, spontaneous pet adoption, other women drama, and general chaos (unsurprisingly everyone needs therapy).
This is the first book in a duet. It’s narrated with multiple perspectives, and does leave off on a cliffhanger.
This narrative is well paced, there were a few sections that dragged, but they were minor.
It can be hard to balance a strong female character without portraying her as outright aggressive, and for the most part I think this narrative does a good job of waking that like with Chiara. Chiara does have her moments, but for the most part her reactions don’t feel entirely over done within the world.
Chiara’s inner monologue does have a tendency to spout opinions that seem steeped in “not like the other girls” logic. These opinions/observations are often contradicted or rendered incongruent by the narrative’s attempts to build a relationship between Chiara and Serafina (Fina), Angelo’s sister: girls that find fashion interesting are tedious/boring, but Fina’s into fashion because she’s a badass. Similarly, Chiara’s general thoughts about other women she encounters are frequently uncharitable.
I will be curious to see where this narrative goes, and how the characters might alter their behavior through the course of the final installment.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of this book to read. I am new to both Ava Summers’ writing and mafia romances, my goodness I want more!
I’ve heard people talk about mafia romances but I never had the motivation to read one, until this book. I can safely say that Symphony of Sorrow has made me want to read more like it!
The way the book is written is very easy to follow and leaves you wanting more. I’m itching for her next releases.
Although it is a mafia romance it doesn’t feel over written as if the mafia is all you can think about. There are different topics spread throughout meaning you never tire of anything.
The characters are amazing! So well written and thought about. They are relatable in how they act and look. You begin to feel close to them and make a real image in your head of what is happening. I have found myself routing for certain things to happen or be said, I’ve felt involved in the storyline.
The descriptions throughout have been so detailed (without being overdone) making me feel like I was watching a film in my own head. She’s made me intrigued about the mafia lifestyle and those involved.
The main female character is fierce, strong, independent and honestly someone you’d want to know.
Very well written book with an amazing storyline. There is sarcasm, humour, lust, hate, revenge, friendship and so much more.
The only negative I have is, I had to catch up on sleep once finishing as I COULD NOT put it down.
This book alone has made me a mafia romance and Ava Summers fan. I cannot wait to read more.
5/5 must read.
I’ve heard people talk about mafia romances but I never had the motivation to read one, until this book. I can safely say that Symphony of Sorrow has made me want to read more like it!
The way the book is written is very easy to follow and leaves you wanting more. I’m itching for her next releases.
Although it is a mafia romance it doesn’t feel over written as if the mafia is all you can think about. There are different topics spread throughout meaning you never tire of anything.
The characters are amazing! So well written and thought about. They are relatable in how they act and look. You begin to feel close to them and make a real image in your head of what is happening. I have found myself routing for certain things to happen or be said, I’ve felt involved in the storyline.
The descriptions throughout have been so detailed (without being overdone) making me feel like I was watching a film in my own head. She’s made me intrigued about the mafia lifestyle and those involved.
The main female character is fierce, strong, independent and honestly someone you’d want to know.
Very well written book with an amazing storyline. There is sarcasm, humour, lust, hate, revenge, friendship and so much more.
The only negative I have is, I had to catch up on sleep once finishing as I COULD NOT put it down.
This book alone has made me a mafia romance and Ava Summers fan. I cannot wait to read more.
5/5 must read.
January 29, 2026
Empire of Pain Duet Book 1
Ava Summers does not play around when it comes to dark mafia reverse harem, she brought her A game with this book. I was immediately invested in Chiara's character right from the first chapter and she just kept growing on me with her BA attitude, she is diabolical.
I felt like it was so easy to get into the story and these amazing characters. I just completely ate up the build-up and dynamic she had with each of the MMCs. I loved how they all brought something different to the table. The banter they all had going was so good. I was laughing, giggling, and kicking my feet.
Chiara is forced to marry Angelo, he low key has had it bad for her. She totally hates him for forcing this marriage so she does what she can to make his life difficult. Kane is Angelo's best friend and enforcer but of course, he is also low-key obsessed with our FMC. His protector mode is hot. And last but definitely not least we have Luka, Angelo's black sheep half-brother and unofficial shi+ stirrer, who is also totally smitten by our FMC.
The things Chiara did to drive her husband and his enforcer crazy with Luka's help were freaking hilarious.
I seriously can't wait to get my hands on the second part of this duet. I absolutely loved it and ate it up.
Tropes:
Mafia
Why-choose
Enemies-to-lovers
Cinnamon roll MMC
"My wife"
Feminine rage
Arranged marriage
Grumpy + Sunshine
Slow-burning to Scorching
Multiple POV
Check TW
Thank you Ava Summers for the opportunity to read this amazing book.
Ava Summers does not play around when it comes to dark mafia reverse harem, she brought her A game with this book. I was immediately invested in Chiara's character right from the first chapter and she just kept growing on me with her BA attitude, she is diabolical.
I felt like it was so easy to get into the story and these amazing characters. I just completely ate up the build-up and dynamic she had with each of the MMCs. I loved how they all brought something different to the table. The banter they all had going was so good. I was laughing, giggling, and kicking my feet.
Chiara is forced to marry Angelo, he low key has had it bad for her. She totally hates him for forcing this marriage so she does what she can to make his life difficult. Kane is Angelo's best friend and enforcer but of course, he is also low-key obsessed with our FMC. His protector mode is hot. And last but definitely not least we have Luka, Angelo's black sheep half-brother and unofficial shi+ stirrer, who is also totally smitten by our FMC.
The things Chiara did to drive her husband and his enforcer crazy with Luka's help were freaking hilarious.
I seriously can't wait to get my hands on the second part of this duet. I absolutely loved it and ate it up.
Tropes:
Mafia
Why-choose
Enemies-to-lovers
Cinnamon roll MMC
"My wife"
Feminine rage
Arranged marriage
Grumpy + Sunshine
Slow-burning to Scorching
Multiple POV
Check TW
Thank you Ava Summers for the opportunity to read this amazing book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Let me start by saying I went into this book not expecting to love it as much as I did and I was pleasantly surprised.
That’s not to say the genre isn’t for me, because I love dark mafia romance. There was just something about this story that felt fun, fast, and easy to read. I absolutely devoured it.
This was my first Ava Summers novel, and it definitely won’t be my last.
Chiara is forced into an arranged marriage by her evil stepmother and decides to make a run for it immediately after the wedding. Her husband (who I’m still not entirely sure is the MMC 👀) spends a year searching for her before one of his security team members finally tracks her down and brings her back. Being the badass FMC that she is, Chiara makes it her mission to complicate her husband’s life, by spending time with his younger brother (whom he despises due to family drama) and his head of security… giving us plenty of smut to enjoy 🌶️🤗
This story includes:
✔️ Yearning
✔️ Shared history between the characters
✔️ Arranged marriage
✔️ Possessiveness
There appear to be three MMCs in this story, and I am absolutely not complaining. I’m left with so many questions about where the romance is headed and who will ultimately end up with whom.
Fair warning: this book ends on a cliffhanger. Needless to say, I’ll be picking up book two as soon as it’s released. Overall, this was a fun, fast-paced, and exciting read.
*Thank you to Netgally and Victory Editing for this ARC*
That’s not to say the genre isn’t for me, because I love dark mafia romance. There was just something about this story that felt fun, fast, and easy to read. I absolutely devoured it.
This was my first Ava Summers novel, and it definitely won’t be my last.
Chiara is forced into an arranged marriage by her evil stepmother and decides to make a run for it immediately after the wedding. Her husband (who I’m still not entirely sure is the MMC 👀) spends a year searching for her before one of his security team members finally tracks her down and brings her back. Being the badass FMC that she is, Chiara makes it her mission to complicate her husband’s life, by spending time with his younger brother (whom he despises due to family drama) and his head of security… giving us plenty of smut to enjoy 🌶️🤗
This story includes:
✔️ Yearning
✔️ Shared history between the characters
✔️ Arranged marriage
✔️ Possessiveness
There appear to be three MMCs in this story, and I am absolutely not complaining. I’m left with so many questions about where the romance is headed and who will ultimately end up with whom.
Fair warning: this book ends on a cliffhanger. Needless to say, I’ll be picking up book two as soon as it’s released. Overall, this was a fun, fast-paced, and exciting read.
*Thank you to Netgally and Victory Editing for this ARC*
February 7, 2026
⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Netgalley for sending me the ARC copy.
🔸Why choose
🔸RH
🔸Voyeurism kink
🔸MFMM romance
🔸Forced marriage
This story started with a lot of potential. I really liked the flow of the story and finished it in just 4 days, which is unusual for me as a slow reader. Chiara was kind of sassy in nature. I really liked her bold, confident and funny demeanor. She was a free bird. No one could control her life.
It had a why choose trope with a RH setup, but I don't know why some moments felt more like a love triangle. Angelo never hurt his wife. He was always ready to protect her. But Chiara, being stubborn, didn't consider his efforts. The story mostly focused on the relationship between Luka and Chiara. Kane was there too, which is completely fine. But Angelo? There was no emotional or physical connection between them. I truly expected at least a little connection between Angelo and Chiara.
I loved the characters— especially Luka and Kane, and wanted to discover more about them. But this story didn't deliver enough. It ended on a cliffhanger, which could direct the story to a more interesting track. But honestly, it didn't work for me. So I'm not expecting anything further.
What I didn't like-
• It lacked emotional build up between characters.
• Character development was not sufficient.
• One character(Angelo) was completely left out in a MFMM relationship.
If you love why choose romances with a bold, confident FMC, you can give it a try.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Netgalley for sending me the ARC copy.
🔸Why choose
🔸RH
🔸Voyeurism kink
🔸MFMM romance
🔸Forced marriage
This story started with a lot of potential. I really liked the flow of the story and finished it in just 4 days, which is unusual for me as a slow reader. Chiara was kind of sassy in nature. I really liked her bold, confident and funny demeanor. She was a free bird. No one could control her life.
It had a why choose trope with a RH setup, but I don't know why some moments felt more like a love triangle. Angelo never hurt his wife. He was always ready to protect her. But Chiara, being stubborn, didn't consider his efforts. The story mostly focused on the relationship between Luka and Chiara. Kane was there too, which is completely fine. But Angelo? There was no emotional or physical connection between them. I truly expected at least a little connection between Angelo and Chiara.
I loved the characters— especially Luka and Kane, and wanted to discover more about them. But this story didn't deliver enough. It ended on a cliffhanger, which could direct the story to a more interesting track. But honestly, it didn't work for me. So I'm not expecting anything further.
What I didn't like-
• It lacked emotional build up between characters.
• Character development was not sufficient.
• One character(Angelo) was completely left out in a MFMM relationship.
If you love why choose romances with a bold, confident FMC, you can give it a try.
Review of advance copy received from Author
***ARC REVIEW***
Symphony of Sorrow is the first book of the Empire of Pain duet. It's a mafia, why choose and ends on a cliffy. Chiara comes from a wealthy family and after her father passes, her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi, mafia heir. She immediately goes on the run and isn't found until a year later when she is returned back to her husband by his head of security, Kane. I love a strong FMC and Chiara is quick witted and feisty with a give no effs attitude. Although, her assumptions about the MMC's were often frustrating because they literally only made sense to her. I'm over here like: why would you even think that?! Our MMC's are Angelo, Kane, and Luca. Angelo and Kane are besties and Luca is Angelo's half-brother. Cue very messy situationships. Luca and Chiara hit it off immediately although they both think the other's intentions aren't genuine. Kane loves her smart mouth but wants her submissiveness, while she hates him for bringing her back to Angelo. Angelo is her husband and he's obsessed while she refuses to even try and get to know him while she secretly drools over him. MESSY and I love it. Book one is a slow burn and a build up to what I imagine with be an absolutely wild ride in Book 2. Looking forward to the relationship development between these characters and the conclusion to this story.
Symphony of Sorrow is the first book of the Empire of Pain duet. It's a mafia, why choose and ends on a cliffy. Chiara comes from a wealthy family and after her father passes, her stepmother forces her into an arranged marriage with Angelo Di Rossi, mafia heir. She immediately goes on the run and isn't found until a year later when she is returned back to her husband by his head of security, Kane. I love a strong FMC and Chiara is quick witted and feisty with a give no effs attitude. Although, her assumptions about the MMC's were often frustrating because they literally only made sense to her. I'm over here like: why would you even think that?! Our MMC's are Angelo, Kane, and Luca. Angelo and Kane are besties and Luca is Angelo's half-brother. Cue very messy situationships. Luca and Chiara hit it off immediately although they both think the other's intentions aren't genuine. Kane loves her smart mouth but wants her submissiveness, while she hates him for bringing her back to Angelo. Angelo is her husband and he's obsessed while she refuses to even try and get to know him while she secretly drools over him. MESSY and I love it. Book one is a slow burn and a build up to what I imagine with be an absolutely wild ride in Book 2. Looking forward to the relationship development between these characters and the conclusion to this story.
Review of advance copy
I was immediately hooked once I started reading and didn't quite know what to expect when the characters began to make their entrances into Chiara's life.
*Trigger warnings - rape and sexual assault to a male and a female.
Chiara lost her mother at a young age and once her father remarried, she felt as though she lost him too. Honestly, her stepmother is a witch! When Chiara's father passed away, she was truly alone. The first thing her evil stepmother does is sell her off to Angelo Di Rosso. The day of her wedding, she decides she's over it and runs away. She runs for a year until Kane, Angelo's best friend and bodyguard finds her and brings her home.
Enter Luka, Angelo's half-brother in all of his adorable sexiness. Not to mention, Kane is busy falling for Chiara too. AND meanwhile, we learn that Angelo has known Chiara since she was a girl and really cares for her and wants her to be happy. Sigh.....so many men.
I honestly thought that Chiara was a brat and really didn't like her very much. I wanted more of the characters getting to know each other in lieu of all the sex and smutty things. Don't get me wrong - I love some smut! But everything just felt too superficial. And the cliffhanger at the end..... Looking forward to the next one to see what happens!
I received a copy of this book in order to leave a review.
*Trigger warnings - rape and sexual assault to a male and a female.
Chiara lost her mother at a young age and once her father remarried, she felt as though she lost him too. Honestly, her stepmother is a witch! When Chiara's father passed away, she was truly alone. The first thing her evil stepmother does is sell her off to Angelo Di Rosso. The day of her wedding, she decides she's over it and runs away. She runs for a year until Kane, Angelo's best friend and bodyguard finds her and brings her home.
Enter Luka, Angelo's half-brother in all of his adorable sexiness. Not to mention, Kane is busy falling for Chiara too. AND meanwhile, we learn that Angelo has known Chiara since she was a girl and really cares for her and wants her to be happy. Sigh.....so many men.
I honestly thought that Chiara was a brat and really didn't like her very much. I wanted more of the characters getting to know each other in lieu of all the sex and smutty things. Don't get me wrong - I love some smut! But everything just felt too superficial. And the cliffhanger at the end..... Looking forward to the next one to see what happens!
I received a copy of this book in order to leave a review.
Review of advance copy
Symphony of Sorrow is the first book in a duet and the story takes its time in a way that works. It’s a good length, giving you space to get to know the characters while still leaving plenty to build on for the next installment.
The romance add some interesting layers. Luka’s cinnamon roll personality gives his connection with Chiara the closest thing to a fast burn, though there’s a sense that his easygoing charm is covering something deeper. Angelo stays firmly in slow‑burn territory, and the book drops just enough hints to make you wonder what he might be hiding. Kane is the biggest mystery of the three. We learn almost nothing about him, but it’s obvious Chiara is firmly in his sight line. Together these dynamics add texture without pulling the story away from its character‑focused style.
All in all, this was a solid setup for the duet. You can feel the story laying the groundwork for more intense moments ahead. It feels like the plot is gearing up for higher stakes and more conflict in the next book.
I’m invested enough to see how everything plays out. I’m curious to see how all these messy dynamics finally turn into actual relationships once everyone gets their crap together. 🤣
Tropes
-MFMM
-Mafia
-Arranged marriage
-Runaway bride
-Brothers
-Enemies to lovers
-Fast burn -> Slow burn
-🔥🔥.5 of 5 spice
The romance add some interesting layers. Luka’s cinnamon roll personality gives his connection with Chiara the closest thing to a fast burn, though there’s a sense that his easygoing charm is covering something deeper. Angelo stays firmly in slow‑burn territory, and the book drops just enough hints to make you wonder what he might be hiding. Kane is the biggest mystery of the three. We learn almost nothing about him, but it’s obvious Chiara is firmly in his sight line. Together these dynamics add texture without pulling the story away from its character‑focused style.
All in all, this was a solid setup for the duet. You can feel the story laying the groundwork for more intense moments ahead. It feels like the plot is gearing up for higher stakes and more conflict in the next book.
I’m invested enough to see how everything plays out. I’m curious to see how all these messy dynamics finally turn into actual relationships once everyone gets their crap together. 🤣
Tropes
-MFMM
-Mafia
-Arranged marriage
-Runaway bride
-Brothers
-Enemies to lovers
-Fast burn -> Slow burn
-🔥🔥.5 of 5 spice
January 27, 2026
♥️Why Choose
♥️Mafia
♥️Arranged Marriage
♥️Enemies to Lovers
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I already can’t wait to read more…especially the second book in this duet. I was hooked from the very first page and loved every bit of it.
Chiara is sold into marriage by her cruel stepmother, but after the wedding she seizes her chance to run. She manages to stay hidden for an entire year…until her husband’s enforcer finds her and drags her back.
I absolutely loved Chiara. She’s feisty, sassy, and completely unafraid to stand her ground. She knows exactly how to get under her husband Angelo’s skin and takes every opportunity to do so. She has no desire to be a mafia wife, and she makes that crystal clear.
And honestly? I loved all three guys. Angelo has been infatuated with Chiara for years. He knows she’s unhappy, but he’s unwilling to let her go. His younger half-brother Luca is flirty, playful, and a total golden retriever MMC. Then there’s Kane, Angelo’s best friend and enforcer, who also serves as Chiara’s bodyguard and protector. Each man brings something unique to the dynamic, and I can’t wait to see how their relationships with Chiara continue to grow in the next book.
♥️Mafia
♥️Arranged Marriage
♥️Enemies to Lovers
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I already can’t wait to read more…especially the second book in this duet. I was hooked from the very first page and loved every bit of it.
Chiara is sold into marriage by her cruel stepmother, but after the wedding she seizes her chance to run. She manages to stay hidden for an entire year…until her husband’s enforcer finds her and drags her back.
I absolutely loved Chiara. She’s feisty, sassy, and completely unafraid to stand her ground. She knows exactly how to get under her husband Angelo’s skin and takes every opportunity to do so. She has no desire to be a mafia wife, and she makes that crystal clear.
And honestly? I loved all three guys. Angelo has been infatuated with Chiara for years. He knows she’s unhappy, but he’s unwilling to let her go. His younger half-brother Luca is flirty, playful, and a total golden retriever MMC. Then there’s Kane, Angelo’s best friend and enforcer, who also serves as Chiara’s bodyguard and protector. Each man brings something unique to the dynamic, and I can’t wait to see how their relationships with Chiara continue to grow in the next book.
February 1, 2026
Symphony of Sorrow is the kind of mafia romance that doesn’t just play with power — it sets it on fire and watches who flinches first. Ava Summers writes with a sharp, addictive intensity, layering obsession, luxury, and menace into a story that feels both cinematic and claustrophobic, like silk stretched over a blade. The writing thrives on tension: the constant surveillance, the gilded prison of the Di Rossi world, and a heroine who refuses to be reduced to a possession. Chiara isn’t meek, isn’t broken, isn’t waiting to be saved — she is loud defiance in a room full of dangerous men, and the way Summers crafts her voice makes her impossible to ignore. Angelo, Luka, and Kane aren’t just archetypes circling the FMC; they’re combustible forces, each one feeding the heat in a different way, creating a volatile, emotionally charged dynamic that keeps the pages turning. The pacing is relentless, the banter bites, the atmosphere drips with dark elegance, and the ending lands like a cruel promise — a cliffhanger designed to haunt. If you like your romance brutal, obsessive, and drenched in danger with a heroine who holds her ground, this delivers.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, NetGalley, and Ava Summers for providing this ARC. All opinions are my own
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, NetGalley, and Ava Summers for providing this ARC. All opinions are my own
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