The Capo

The Valentini Family #5

by Serena Akeroyd

Kitty Frasier has no idea I’ll be sitting next to her on the plane when she comes onto me in the first-class lounge…

…our engagement ring burning a hole in my pocket.

In her opinion, spring break with her sisters in Mexico sounds like a good time.

But because I was too late to kidnap them from the airport, we’re flying into the epicenter of an underworld war.

No matter what she thinks, her ties to the Irish Mob put her in danger.

With only my alliances to keep us safe, Kitty’s about to learn what it means to be with the Capo of the Sicilian mafia.

And by the end of spring break, my ring will be on her finger.

Part One of THE SALVATION DUET
Whether she's ready or not.
______________________

Tropes:

Bad boy/ good girl
Forced proximity
She falls hard/ he falls harder
Age gap
Touch her and ☠️
Heroine in danger
Irish Mob x Sicilian Mafia

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark Romance, Forced Proximity, Romance, Suspense, He Falls First, Contemporary

442 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 27, 2026

About the author

USA Today and International Best Selling Author Serena Akeroyd aka G. A. Mazurke is most known for her mafia and MC series set in the Five Points Mob Universe. 


Avid reader of all things romance, she first started her career as a why choose author in both contemporary and paranormal.

She eventually made her way to MF romance where she found her groove with the O’Donnelly brothers, the Satan Sinners and most recently the Valentini Family. 



In her back list you can find some MM, MF, MFM and Why Choose romances. 
HEA guaranteed!

When not writing Serena is either reading, traveling or coloring. 





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Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟, 3🌶️

If you love a chaotic, emotional mafia romance, this one pulls you in instantly.

I’ve been waiting for Stan’s story and this was such a solid read. The connection between him and Kitty is immediate, but it never feels shallow. She’s trying to keep her life steady while he steps in with that intense, all in energy, and somehow it just clicks. Stan comes off strong at first, but the more you see of him, the more his depth and quiet guilt start to stand out.

What I really liked was the balance in his character. He has that dangerous, protective edge, but he is also deeply loyal and caring, especially when it comes to Kitty and her family. The dynamic with her sisters added a lot of humor and lightness, which worked so well with the heavier moments. Kitty holds her ground too, and I loved that she didn’t shy away from what she wanted even when things moved fast.

There’s a lot going on with the underworld tension and the emotional stakes, and it keeps things interesting without feeling overwhelming. Some parts felt a little rushed or repetitive, but overall it was still really engaging. And that ending definitely leaves you wanting more.

I’m really excited to see where the story goes next.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Serena Akeroyd & The Author Agency for this copy! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[Christina Delong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stan Valentini.
That’s it. That’s the review. 😩🔥

Okay, fine — I’ll elaborate.

The Capo absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Kitty Frasier thinks she’s heading off for a carefree spring break in Mexico with her sisters… meanwhile, Stan is boarding that same plane with an engagement ring in his pocket and a whole Underworld war about to explode around them. Casual, right?

From the very first interaction, this wasn’t just insta-love or insta-lust. This was insta-connection — and you could feel it. That magnetic pull. That inevitability. The kind of chemistry that vibrates off the page. I know some readers hesitate with fast-burn relationships, but Serena makes it believable because the emotional depth is there. The intensity isn’t rushed — it’s fated.

And Stan? Oh man. He is officially my favorite Valentini. The way he balances ruthless Sicilian Capo energy with absolute devotion? That protective, “burn the world down for her” vibe? You already know that’s my weakness. The man came prepared to put a ring on it and also ends up navigating cartel-level danger to keep Kitty safe. The loyalty. The alliances. The sheer dominance. I was DONE. 🫠

What continues to blow my mind about Serena Akeroyd is how she intertwines her worlds so seamlessly. Every book connects, every thread matters, and yet you can still read them as standalones. That kind of layered storytelling takes serious talent. I will literally drop whatever I’m reading the second she releases something new — and The Capo is exactly why.

And that ending?!
HOLY. CRAP.

Things got REAL real. The tension, the implications, the “wait… that can’t be happening” moment? I need the next book like yesterday. And if the person everyone thinks is dead is actually dead??? I refuse. I simply refuse to process that possibility.

If you love:
• Mafia romance
• Alpha heroes who are obsessed in the best way
• Fierce heroines tied to dangerous legacies
• High-stakes Underworld drama
• Devotion that feels like destiny

…then The Capo needs to be on your TBR immediately.

Serena did it again. And I am not okay.

Review is of an Advanced copy received.

[Jemma Newby · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG , OMG ,OMG. What am I going to do now. I NEEEEEEED more. My mind is scrambled , my heart is aching and I need answers now. Wow once again I devoured this book and it as blown me away. I've always been excited for Stans book/duet and this did not disappoint. It was action-packed and filled with plenty of WTF moments throughout. Kitty is definitely one of my favourite FMC's i just love her and I think she is exactly what Stan needs, I think she will be the perfect addition to the Valentini Family. I'm keeping everything crossed we get to see more from the rest of the Fraiser siblings , i just love them all. Phenomenal addition to this incredible universe and im sat here desperately waiting for the conclusion to this duet , even though its going to be bittersweet knowing that the Valentini duets are nearly complete. If I could give it more than five stars i would , I just love this whole universe is may just start my reread allover again.

[Samantha Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review comes with a warning! YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO PUT THIS BOOK DOWN!! Stan and Kitty, my word!! Oh, the end too, dear me. I really can’t say more as I can’t honestly think of anything to write that won’t inadvertently spoil things! Just gotta wait for the next book now!!
I received an advanced reader copy.

[INeedABookBreak · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing start to spicy mafia duet

The Capo was one of my most anticipated releases of the entire year! The Valentini family series is one of my all time favorites! This book is everything that I love about mafia romance. The Capo is suspenseful, spicy, and there is so much sass especially from our FMC.

Kitty’s family has affiliations with the Irish mob, but she and her sisters have largely tried to stay away from all of that business. She works as a nurse in a hospital. When Stan comes in as a patient, she immediately recognizes him. Stan is a bit of a mad scientist in addition to being the Capo of the Sicilian mafia. He was rushed to the hospital after self trialing a new medication that he created.

Stan and Kitty have some of the best banter and chemistry. I couldn’t get enough of them. Their meet cute involved a hilarious helicopter (IYKYK) where Stan made a very LONG lasting impression on Kitty!

In so many ways, this book felt like coming home for me. I just have so much love for the Five Points Mob universe. Long time fans will love the appearances of the other Valentini family members & the Feckers. My forever favorite, Jen (The Don/The Lady) had some amazing moments and rallied to help bring Stan and Kitty together.

There is a darker suspense plot that had me in an absolute chokehold. I’m anxiously awaiting the solution to that as it will span the duet.

The book ends on a pretty shocking cliffhanger and now I’m anxiously awaiting the second half of the Salvation duet! While you don’t need to read the others in the series before this, I definitely recommend it for the best reading experience.

[cloudy · Rating 5 out of 5]

the author herself knows i’m biased and that conor and star are my favorites, so it’s to no one’s surprised that if you make them the most prominent side characters in a book i’ll be sat and eat it up. however, it is a testament to her craft and brilliance that even with my favorites having such an active role in this story, they didn’t manage to stole the show from the main couple (even though that scene of conor psychoanalyzing stan is one of my favorites on this entire universe, so what if it left me in tears). i’ve been waiting and wanting stan’s duet for years, and i do mean years. the fact that neither the wait nor knowing everything the author went through with this story diminished in any way the final product, quite the opposite, this book surpassed any expectations i might’ve had for it. who would’ve thought (me) that the baby brother would give luc a run for his money, but he did and i loved every second of their dynamic. i will say though, i missed my babies hunter and aurora the most, hopefully they’ll have a bigger part in the second half of the duet. (now if dead to me is actually dead, we’ll be having words, miss serena.)

* i was sent an arc by the author in exchange for a honest review

[Jodie Mihas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous

Back in the wonderful mafia world of Serena Akeroyd. Kitty is a feisty girl who won’t put up with any of Stan’s shenanigans and Stan is a cupcake eating force of nature that every reader is going to fall in love with. Stan tests his own medicine he is making on himself and ends up in the ER where Kitty who is a nurse first comes across him,we get all the crazy family members in this book and some characters from books in the other universe’s of Serena’s. All the feels are in this one and I highly recommend this to everyone 🖤❤️ I received an Advanced Reader Copy

[liz_loves_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advanced Reader Copy received from Author.

The youngest Valentini gets his time to shine in this emotional, thrilling, suspenseful and humorous first book in The Salvation duet.

Stan, the Sicilian Capo, is developing and self-testing a drug which lands him in the hospital on numerous occasions.
Kitty Frasier is the hard-working nurse who captivates Custanzu /Stan Valentini and becomes his obsession and in some ways his saviour.
   "My angel haunted my waking hours. She made me hope."

When Stan discovers that Kitty and her sisters (who are both a hoot) are off to Mexico for Spring Break, he decides to intervene with their travel plans...

What follows is a masterclass of storytelling, with thrills and spills involving Cartels, explosions, the underworld and navigating through dangerous times. With Stan using his connections and influence to keep them safe.

Stan and Kitty were incredible characters and their banter and on page presence snared me from the get-go. Add in the supporting cast of players from old favourites to new faces and this was pure entertainment from beginning to end.

I'm on tenterhooks to read the next book after that cliffhanger of an ending!

[Joanne K · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Capo is book one of the final duet in the Valentini Family series.

I am so happy to go back into this Mafia world, I’ve missed it so much. I’m also loving the crossover with the Five Points!
Stan wasn’t one of my favourites in the series but after reading this book, he definitely is now! I’m loving the connection between Stan and Kitty. They are the perfect couple!!
The story is superb and with a cliffhanger ending I can’t wait for book 2!!

Review of ARC copy received from the author

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Since I got to read both The Capo and The Angel back to back, I’m going to review the duet in one swoop! It has been too long since I have been in this world and I missed it! Truth be told, it’s been a hot minute since I have been in any Serena’s world and that’s just a travesty! Starting this duet when the ARC of The Angel landed on my kindle felt like some sort of cosmic plan that I didn’t know was happening until it did. I guess that’s why it’s cosmic! LOL The story I read before I began this duet was/is one of the best “insta-connection” romance stories that I have read in a really long time, if ever, so when I began to read this duet and I start to feel the story and realize this is the concept that Serena wrote for Kitty and Stan, I was giddy with excitement. I know that most stories that are written with this circumstance tend to gravitate more towards “lust/love at first sight”, so when a story comes along that digs deeper into that “first sight connection” and makes me feel and believe in that connection, it’s just a thing of beauty for me!

I won’t lie and say that I was captivated or sucked into the story from the very beginning because quite frankly, I was a little bit lost and confused when it started. LOL Not the “bad” kind of lost but the “my brain is not processing fast enough” kind and that’s more than likely due to the time laps since we were in this world and now. So, at about 10% (ish) I had to stop and jump back a few stories and skim to get reacquainted with the “who what where” of everyone. It didn’t take long and most people wouldn’t even need to do this but I’m special like that so it’s fine. LOL I will say that there is nothing about The Valentini Family series that is standalone in nature. It is not the best choice to jump in wherever you please.

Once I got back to the story, there was no stopping me from reading every word practically thru till the end of The Angel (my eyeballs did not approve lol)! I don’t know what all of you guys did that had to wait for The Angel to release because after that “ending” in The Capo, I did not wait a single minute to begin The Angel even thought it was after 11 pm on a weeknight! From beginning to the very end, the story of Stan and Kitty is intense and emotional. Their connection is compelling and inevitable with a chemistry that is off the charts! Not only did “they” spark, but their journey was explosive in a way that felt like watching fireworks with eyes glued to every scene! GAH I HAVE MISSED THIS WOMAN!

The Capo is a story that builds from the start and doesn’t stop building till we come to that inevitable fork in the road, otherwise known as the cliffhanger, take a beat and then proceed with The Angel, which doesn’t “not” build but is more focused on the “world” rather than our “couple”. Make sense? The Angel will keep you on your toes and also, if you’ve been here from the start, pull at your heartstrings and possibly make you a little nostalgic knowing that Serana is “wrapping-up” this larger than life world. Just me? *wipes a few tears*

The audiobook nerd inside of me is hoping against hope that the audio for this duet comes out soon because I have been sitting on the first four audiobooks for a long while now, but I just know that once I begin, I am going to want to go all the way in an epic-binge! So I wait …

[Marianne Tuakoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book six stars I would. As soon I read the first chapter my thought was ‘yes she’s back!’ this long anticipated book was everything it promised to be. Stan, as misunderstood as he was, needed his own story. Stan needed to find his salvation and he found it in Kitty.

if you are a long time reader of Serena’s you know how her mind works. She is the absolute best author out there in terms of connecting the dots, the characters, and the story lines - tying them all together to make us all happy. I don’t know how she does it but I am so glad she does.

Kitty is the perfect woman for Stan - she is strong but soft at the same time. She is what he needs to shake his guilt from his past and watching it his mind struggle thru it … loved it!

Part 1 of this duet gives us so many cameos of characters past and Easter eggs for the future. However, in true form, she leaves us on a cliff hanger that hurts the heart. If Stan can’t fix things it could lead to an all out war between factions and we can’t have that - for everyone’s sake, and his sanity.

[Sarah Poulton-Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an epically teasing and all consuming work of beauty. It feels so good to be back in this world with Stan and Kitty and so many familiar faces that tie the Valentinis and the Five Points together. I wanted to race through every page but I forced myself to slow down and savour the slowburning (yet action packed) part one of this love story.

it is hard to summarise as this book feels big. Stan and Kitty's narrative feels like it is going to answer a lot and tie up some loose ends (and probably throw out some new threads if you've read Serena before). But we're not there yet. The Capo is Stan's journey past grief into a certain future with Kitty. He just needs to get her on board. She is his Angel and his lifeline. She will be his and she will have his protection (no matter the crazy situations she and her sisters find themselves in). But we are a way off a HEA. And this book has a big old cliffhanger to leave you desperate for book 2.

Serena's voice has grown and matured since the last outing into this world. I cannot emphasise enough how delicious this teasing tension is between Stan and Kitty. There is so much chemistry and verbal foreplay that when it gets physical they ignite. This book is heated. But in a deliberately consuming and intentional way. The tease solidifies these two as meant to be. And they both discover some unexpected kinks along the way.

If you love this interconnected world of the Serenaverse then Stan is a must read. He has taken the crown as my favourite Valentini and Kitty is, as with all Serena FMCs, feisty and independent and an all round kick ass woman. Freaking brilliant five star read.

[Heather Stobo · Rating 5 out of 5]

STAN!! I have been waiting a long time for this story and it does not disappoint! Jump back into the Valentini Family with Stan’s story. Stan is everything I knew he would be and he finally gets his story told!

[BookishLeoReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been along for this ride since Nyx, and this Capo has kept me in the Serena hive. I’m known to be a chronic DNF’er, I will abandon a book on book 3 if I have to. No other author I’ve read has managed to create a bookverse like this, that just continues to GROW. The Sinners x Feckers world will forever have a place in my bookworm heart. 10/10 no notes Serena!

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

What the C A P O did I just read?? Okay, first of all, this is part of a duet, which means a cliffhanger, and that’s partially responsible for my WTH reaction. But, holy wow, it's so worth it!

Non-stop action from beginning to end with a mafia backdrop and raw, gritty romance in between. And it is fabulous! I went into this blind, which I highly recommend, and I couldn’t have had a better reading experience.

If you’re at all a mafia romance fan, or just a SA/GAM fan, you’ll love every second of Stan and Cat's romance. Read it now, so you can be on tenterhooks with the rest of us anticipating the sure-to-be amazing second half of this epic romance.

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't even with this book. It's a mind-blowing story. The narrative was perfection. I liked all the action that went down and the revelations. Stan and Kitty are incredible characters. And I feel that these two characters are well matched to each other, that they complement one another. This book really packs it in with all the details. I just could not put this down. I was on the edge of my seat flipping those pages. There were even some moments that I was literally holding my breath waiting for that proverbial shoe to drop. Loved the banter too. And that ending I'm still trying to wrap my brain around it. So darn good. This is an addictive read that left me satisfied for the moment and has me looking forward to the next part. I cannot recommend this more than enough. If you love mafia romance with tension, that's loaded with action, has suspense, and two characters with crazy chemistry, then grab a copy of this.

Favorite moment:
"These were my lips. My tongue. They belonged to my Pandora, but she'd opened the box--they were mine now. She was mine now. They'd know no other. She'd know no other.


A huge thank you to the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I love being back in this world. I missed this family so much. Serena always has such amazing character and world building. I love how she weaves all of her characters together leaving little Easter eggs everywhere, and tying things together. It’s just brilliant.
Stan and Kitty were explosive together. I loved their connection and how you do feel everyone of their emotions
This is definitely a five star read for me now I need the next book because that cliffhanger OMG!

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't tell you how much I was looking forward to getting my hands on another book in this series. Ill be honest and say that I get mental grabby hands when any book from the 5 pointers, Valentini, Sinners......etc gets released because I know that they are going to be a bloody good read. The Capo did not disappoint. Yes it's a standalone duet but trust me it's best if you try to read the other interwoven/connected books because they give you more background to this story.

The Capo - Stan's duet is a bittersweet read. Sad in places, emotionally touching, a few laughs and plenty of steamy scenarios between Stan & Kitty. I loved that Kitty was a strong FMC within this book which she needed to be with Stan I thought. More so with everything she went through in this book including that cliff-hanger ending. I'm dying to see how that will play out in the 2nd book in this duet now.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stan's story is one I've been eagerly waiting for for years at this point and being swept up into this heavily layered and interconnected world of Serena Akeroyd's again felt like coming home.

There is so much going on with this plot I can’t even begin to explain it but I do think it's best read as part of the reading order to get the full grasp of things.

That said I adored Kitty and her dynamic with her sisters. It was comedic gold and Stan is SO down bad I was swonning left right and centre for this man.

And that ending? I NEED part two now!!

5/5 stars

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an inter-connected book in the author's world, and I highly suggest it not be your first book from this author in this world, because it will leave you confused.
Stan is the brother to past characters in the Valenti world, and he is obsessed with Kitty, a nurse he's seen frequently due to well ... he is a Capo!
This book ends in a cliffhanger so BE PREPARED - side note - you are NOT PREPARED for that cliffhanger!

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I need part two of this duet ASAP! Stan and Kitty's story gets off to a seductive and absolutely consuming start that pulled me right down a rabbit hole without encouraging even the tiniest desire to escape. Off the chart's chemistry, jaw on the floor twists, intense emotions along with generous amounts of tension, action and pulse-racing danger are combined smartly and skillfully with feels, a touch of sweetness and a touch of humor to create a romance that is just, WOW!

[Kelsey Kendall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting for Stan’s book for a loooong time and I’m telling you right now that it was worth it! It’s series adjacent but Finn has honestly always been my favorite mod guy and then Conor kind of snuck past and I thought, this is it. They can’t get any better. And then the Sicilians showed up and that thought went out the window! Stan is just.. ugh. I don’t even know how to describe him. Obsessed in the best way. Kitty is pretty great too though! I love that she’s a PA. I also love that she is kind of hard on the guys she dates. She’s not a pushover and she knows, for sure, what she’s not looking for in a man. Stan has a big brain and a big heart and I love that he’s able to show emotion in a way a lot of men aren’t. Kitty is such a great sister and I love, both, that she does anything and everything she can for her sister and Stan does anything and everything for her sisters because it pleases Kitty. They’re both so family centered and it shows. I don’t know how any one of their family members could dislike the other because Stan and Kitty are goals. A bear perfect pair. I’m DYING for the 2nd book because that cliffhanger is sending Stan and I both into a spiral!

[Audrey Krofchick · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does Serena do it? Each book is better than the last. This book is so action-packed, it keeps you guessing on what will happen next. I absolutely loved Stan and Kitty. He’ll burn the world down for her, so they better watch out. It ends on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book! It will be soon, right?!

[Angela Denny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Stan to finally get his own book and i absolutely loved it. I knew Stan and Kitty's story would be epic. Rhis book is definitely a rollercoaster of emotions. So much happens to them as they start their relationship. Love how we get to see characters from other books. The ending was rough and I can't wait to see where the story goes in the next book.

[Vanessa Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Review ✨
***
The Capo was so good!! I loved Stan so much. He was a but dark, a bit broody, a bit intense, but so amazing. His care and attention with Kitty was so sweet and perfect. I loved Kitty. She was tough and kind and so easy to like. The writing was perfect like always and so good. I was addicted from the start. The spice was hot! I need book 2 now!!! The ending was so good.
***
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance: 🩷🩷🩷
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
***

[Nami ♡ · Rating 1 out of 5]

The book was just all over the place, and there’s no chemistry between Kitty and Stan. Literally none and so confusing. It felt like a was reading an unfinished/ rough draft book. So sad cause all the reviews hyped it up😭😭

[Larissa Rye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man I love coming back to this world. Plus I absolutely loved that we seen so much of the Five Pointers as they are my favourite! But I’m also loving Stan & Kitty so much! & lets be real I’m also enjoying the hell out of Kitty’s sisters, chaos queens for sure. This book is throwing it back to all the different series/books that all tie together & currently it’s a messy knot but I can’t wait to see how it all unravels. That ending made me so mad but also desperate for the next book. I’m not ready for this world to end but man I want some answers haha. Just another amazing addition to this series & I’ll be waiting on pins & needles for book two!

[Bbbbb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prefacing this with a warning, back away slowly from this book until you've completed the chronological reading order [recommended], the series-by-series reading order, or any other reading order within which you choose or end up reading.

This book is the 5th of 6 books in the Valentini series, the 3rd and final duet of the Valentini Family series, and the 35th book written in a major story-arc spanning multiple series*, multiple geographic locations, and multiple families (be they found, blood, or otherwise).

If you haven’t touched the universe before, before you even think about reading this book; please commence your reading with All Sinner No Saint and then Nyx, then follow through the chronological order; found on either Serena's author website or in Serena’s fb book group (within the Divas group; Welcome posts are very common when people join the group, and these posts usually have attached an infographic detailing each book cover in their chronological order). That said, let us proceed to the next order of business, the review:


The much-anticipated third duet of the Valentini family, begins with an opening scene that will never be forgotten, similarly as unforgettable as Luc and Jen’s introduction scene, though for other reasons entirely. Stan and Kitty’s intro scene has a lot more multiple layers to it; a lot of silly, a lot of sad, and a lot of ++I will never forget this or you because of what is happening right now++.

This book duet was hard on our fav author; she mentions Stan's The Capo giving her a hard time. Some of that trouble may be due to how many loose-ends needed to be tied-up before we can all move onto the second generation of our favorite families, while she also ran into some technical issues and life situations along the way. All of which got in the way of her muse. So far, from The Capo, her intentions have been met and exceeded with tying up loose ends imo, can't wait to see what is in store for them next.

Being able to touching base with and say goodbye to so many of our favorite characters [even if their book isn’t currently shelved]. A quick pop-in soothes our grief of leaving them in the current era and moving on towards a hopefully brighter future. A fetching transition era. Also, seeing them again brought up and renewed our love for these beloved characters in our hearts and minds.

The rest of the storylines, centered around Stan and Kitty, are hilarious, harrowing, and heartrending in all the best ways; family members interruptions [siblings are always the funniest, when does not involve yourself], unexpected life and death situations, political machinations, hope against all odds, horror of discovery, moral anguish, and desire to rectifying mistakes.

I am ecstatically anticipating the rest of this duet; to see what will be tied up, what discoveries will be wrought, and how the horrors of the world-at-large will find a satisfying conclusion, and transition to the adult lives of the kiddos in the current generation**.

Let me talk a minute about that cliffhanger, OMG, at least we know what’s happening, but still, I want to scream for many different reasons. First, the teasers of certain people attached to this writing of this book. Explosive is one word alluded to for the beginning of the next book. The way this book ends, I hope that descriptor tells us what is going to happen next story-wise and will blow our mind rather than what we know might happen. Several beloved characters need to be where we all believed them to be, well and truly whole, if not a little worn.


I must mention again the genius that is our fav author, her amazingly realistic world-building, fleshed-out realistic characters who you want as your ride and die, if you were in that world, and characters that seem like real-life fleshed-out humanity, though from a tangential dimension, not ours, of course for legal reasons. I feel like our fav author has a wormhole to that other dimension and is tied-in somehow to the feelings, minds, and tangible lives of our characters to an eerily degree, many of her characters must agree, let us just say we have insight into the grumblings of certain concerned partners due to Easter eggs and other treats Serena and her people have spread throughout her socials, spoiling us in the interim between books.

How can you not love Serena’s little treats she gives us in her book groups, little tidbits that spoil her ardent followers. You’ll see book characters show up in the comments of post on social media, videos of text chats between characters, and bonus scenes between our fav author, her PA, and the characters, the story edging in the comments. Not to mention, the family tree/cast cards, the map of Pigeon Creek, the Insta accounts of characters, and the I Told You So gossip column found on their author website irl. Oh, and I mustn’t forget the song playlists beautifully crafted and intimately tailored for each book.

I’m going to reiterate how much of a darling our dear author is and a quote myself from another review says this more succinctly and precisely than ever. My words back then are so much more fitting today than anything I can come up in my disgruntled-by-the-state-of-the-irl-world mindset. These words describe and fully encompasses our love for our fav author and how much she gives her all, to us and her muse, every single day she writes; though life may wear away our edges, tear up our lives, and whisks away bits and bytes without our approval nor consent, in the end it matters not what mistakes, what darkness life throws at us, or our mental health...what matters is the humanity that encompasses what we do with all that negativity and how we turn it around for the betterment of ourselves, our loved ones, and of all:

“Our fav author gives us so much of herself, her words, her characters, and her worlds every single time that it is like being dropped into a canvas, a movie, a theatre all rolled into one. She draws our imaginations in, scribes and paints vivid stories onto not just the paper and screens we read, but seems to bypass those mediums entirely and just paints straight into the canvases of our minds.

We find an absolute treasure in each and every book in her collection, whether written with ink and paper or with bit and bytes, whether a new story released on wings into the world or a new iteration of a beloved story meshed out even moreso, so that you [may] see further into the land beyond the looking glass to the Wonderland that is her mind.” ~from my review of Broken, by Serena Akeroyd



*Serena mentioned that the Salvation duet ties up a whole story-arc [iykyk] that weaves through all of the books in the Five Points Mob Universe; Five Points' Mob Collection, the Dark & Dirty Sinners' MC series, The Valentini Family series, 7C’s Pigeon Creek, The New York Stars, The Forgotten Boys, and several other odds and ends*** [see author's website for details]. Though there are several already-published books that are chronologically after Stan’s Salvation duet, 6 specifically according to the official chronological infographic, but those 6 books only allude teasingly to current events, while Capo ties them all up in neat little bows, as much as humanly possible.

**especially since there has been such a tie-in to rl to a very scarily degree. The irony is that the tie-in was unintentional, when initially written by the author. May there be a reckoning to all irl, as in her fictional world.

***not included in this story-arc, but recommended by Aoife to her besties; an Inception-layered story within the Five Points Mob Universe, the Quintessence Universe: Quintessence and Veronia Collections with The Intern and the subsequent 2nd generation Quintessentially Theirs MF Series.

TW: allusions to grief, survivors’ guilt, and an existential crisis about existence, amongst many others in-universe, iykyk [see other TW in book or on author’s website].

I was sent an Advanced Reader Copy

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥

“𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘰 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘢 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦, 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘧*𝘤𝘬 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦.”

The Capo quickly became one of my favorite Serena books, giving me everything I hoped for & more. This newest book expands the Five Points’ universe, giving new layers for long time readers while letting new booklovers jump in and enjoy it as a standalone. I wrapped up this book & cannot stop thinking about Kitty’s upcoming story!!

The Capo follows Cu “Stan” zu Valentini, a Caporegime in the Italian mafia & Catriona “Kitty” Frasier, the sister of a high ranking Irish mafioso. That dynamic alone made for an incredibly fun read with beloved cameos & the inevitable complications that arise as their relationship blossoms. Despite the depth of this universe, the clever writing/storytelling makes it simple for anyone to jump right into this chaotic world.

Stan is sharp, driven & constantly pushing himself too far, which keeps Kitty on edge as she fears where his ambition might lead. Kitty is everything I love about Serena’s resilient female characters. Smart, capable & assertive, with a warmth that draws you in. As a nurse, it’s in her nature to care for others & she cares for Stan in a way he’s never experienced.

All hell breaks loose when Kitty’s tiny white lie about a trip turns into something far bigger than she could’ve imagined! From that point on, everything ramps up, bringing them closer & letting us see them on a deeper level. The cliffhanger ending left me fully invested & already needing the next book! 😲

I genuinely loved this story & cannot recommend it enough. It has lots of laughs, crazy action, so much heart & just the right amount of spice & tension to keep you hooked. At its core, this story is about true devotion & choosing the people who choose you back regardless of the obstacles. Stan & Kitty are everything.🥰

[Mirjam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark, addictive, and completely consuming.

Realizing that the mysterious, solitary man maintaining a perfect 360° helicopter in her ER bay is none other than Custanzu Valentini, the feared Capo of the Famigghia, Kitty Frasier makes a choice she knows crosses every line. Breaking protocol, ethics, and the law in one breath, she reaches for her phone and calls her brother Lucas, revealing that the Capo has overdosed.







Kitty Frasier is quite the compelling character, spirited, bold, and completely unaware of just how deep the world around her runs. With her brothers being high-ranking Five Pointers, she is aware that someone is always watching over her.
Kitty’s collision with the dark, powerful reality of the mafia is equal parts thrilling and emotional. Especially when it comes to the Capo, whose intense, commanding presence and fierce, possessive devotion make every scene crackle with energy.







Spring break in Mexico quickly transforms from carefree fun into a pulse-pounding descent into an underworld war, and the contrast only heightens everything.
The stakes feel sky-high the entire time, as are the emotions and the intensity between the characters. The romance is fiery and consuming, layered with tension, vulnerability, and just enough tenderness to make it unforgettable.
By the time spring break reaches its explosive conclusion, you’re completely swept up in their world, and that final promise of the ring?







The pacing is sharp, the atmosphere is rich, and the dynamic between them is completely addictive. By the time the story barrels toward its promise of that ring finally finding its place, you’re fully invested and unwilling to look away.
The book ends on an epic cliffhanger, leaving your heart racing and your mind reeling long after you’ve turned the final page.




While part of the The Valentini Family Series, each Valentini sibling has a duet:
The Oath Duet
The Revelation Duet
The Salvation Duet



ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.