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Requiem of Rage: a why choose mafia romance
Never underestimate a vengeful mafia wife…
Between putting on naughty cam shows for my a-hole husband and flirting with his grumpy enforcer, life as an unwilling mafia bride is…not so bad.
With Luka as my sexy partner in crime, I’m way too busy day drinking, binging reality TV shows, and eating my body weight in baked goods to plan an escape.
But trouble has a way of finding me, and Angelo is no longer my biggest threat.
Our enemies are closing in on all sides.
We don’t know who’s pulling the strings, but one thing is if Angelo can’t figure it out, it’s not just my life at risk - it’s the lives of everyone I care about.
Especially Luka.
Angelo is the man I love to hate, but he might just be the one person who can save us.
---
Requiem of Rage is book two in the Empire of Pain trilogy and will conclude with a HAE. The duet is a MFMM why choose mafia romance (no MM). For TWs, see the note at the beginning of the book.
Between putting on naughty cam shows for my a-hole husband and flirting with his grumpy enforcer, life as an unwilling mafia bride is…not so bad.
With Luka as my sexy partner in crime, I’m way too busy day drinking, binging reality TV shows, and eating my body weight in baked goods to plan an escape.
But trouble has a way of finding me, and Angelo is no longer my biggest threat.
Our enemies are closing in on all sides.
We don’t know who’s pulling the strings, but one thing is if Angelo can’t figure it out, it’s not just my life at risk - it’s the lives of everyone I care about.
Especially Luka.
Angelo is the man I love to hate, but he might just be the one person who can save us.
---
Requiem of Rage is book two in the Empire of Pain trilogy and will conclude with a HAE. The duet is a MFMM why choose mafia romance (no MM). For TWs, see the note at the beginning of the book.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2026
About the author
Ava Summers
16 books94 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 63 reviews
March 1, 2026
So exciting and thrilling. The book starts off right where the last one left off. I absolutely love all the characters and Angelo really shone in this book I found. Really liked where the story went with this and the ending.
March 15, 2026
3,25*
March 15, 2026
This book is ok. I wish there was more time with Chiara and Angelo, like we get to see more of their relationship bloom. The ending was a bit anticlimactic as well. But it's not bad overall.
March 3, 2026
Unputdownable!
It was difficult to put this book down. I was lucky to receive an advanced review copy for book one via NetGally (I believe), a while back and since I enjoyed it and reviewed it immediately, I was actually offered an advanced copy of this one, but I had just started a new series and didn’t want to be held to a specific timeline so I passed. Two days ago I was finally able to get this via Amazon Kindle. WOWZA! Book 2 of “Empire of Pain,” did not disappoint either.
The first book was good, however, I found that this one was even better. The recipe for a good R.H. mafia novel such as this included: lots of action, comedy, character growth, relationship growth, dominant males, sick twisted men, fierce and snarky woman and of course steamy romance scenes.
I normally find RH works better with the paranormal, as without paranormal characters they often tend to be a bit off. However,this book didn’t come off weird. It flowed beautifully.
I had not heard of this author prior to getting the first book, subsequently, I have now become a fan of Ava Summers and will continue to read some of her other books after this. I’m actually sad that this book has ended, but we end with a HEA and I cannot see her expanding on this any further without becoming tedious.
It was difficult to put this book down. I was lucky to receive an advanced review copy for book one via NetGally (I believe), a while back and since I enjoyed it and reviewed it immediately, I was actually offered an advanced copy of this one, but I had just started a new series and didn’t want to be held to a specific timeline so I passed. Two days ago I was finally able to get this via Amazon Kindle. WOWZA! Book 2 of “Empire of Pain,” did not disappoint either.
The first book was good, however, I found that this one was even better. The recipe for a good R.H. mafia novel such as this included: lots of action, comedy, character growth, relationship growth, dominant males, sick twisted men, fierce and snarky woman and of course steamy romance scenes.
I normally find RH works better with the paranormal, as without paranormal characters they often tend to be a bit off. However,this book didn’t come off weird. It flowed beautifully.
I had not heard of this author prior to getting the first book, subsequently, I have now become a fan of Ava Summers and will continue to read some of her other books after this. I’m actually sad that this book has ended, but we end with a HEA and I cannot see her expanding on this any further without becoming tedious.
March 25, 2026
Never underestimate a vengeful mafia wife…
Between putting on naughty cam shows for my a-hole husband and flirting with his grumpy enforcer, life as an unwilling mafia bride is…not so bad.
With Luka as my sexy partner in crime, I’m way too busy day drinking, binging reality TV shows, and eating my body weight in baked goods to plan an escape.
But trouble has a way of finding me, and Angelo is no longer my biggest threat.
Our enemies are closing in on all sides.
We don’t know who’s pulling the strings, but one thing is if Angelo can’t figure it out, it’s not just my life at risk - it’s the lives of everyone I care about.
Especially Luka.
Angelo is the man I love to hate, but he might just be the one person who can save us.
---
Requiem of Rage is book two in the Empire of Pain trilogy and will conclude with a HAE. The duet is a MFMM why choose mafia romance (no MM). For TWs, see the note at the beginning of the 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 may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Why Choose, Contemporary, Multi 1st Person POV, Mafia Romance, Marriage of Convivence, Runaway Bride, It’s Always been Her, Poly (3+ People), Slow-Burn, Runaway Bride, Shocking Betrayals, Clever Banter, Forced Proximity, Enemies-to-Lovers, Funny, MFMM Romance/No MM, Competent FMC, Independent FMC, Alpha Male, Possessive MMC, Bodyguard/Protector MMC, Guaranteed HEA.
Requiem of Rage is the 2nd book in the Empire of Pain Duet by Ava Summers.
Requiem of Rage picks up right where the first book Sympathy of Sorrow left off, and man was I happy to get my hands on this book given that cliffhanger the first book left us hanging on. This book is full of drama, the plot is well developed with exciting full sup-plots and the storyline is entertaining and enthralling.
As expected, Chiara, Luka, Angelo, and Knox (Chiara’s three hot as sin men) still have their difficulties, and unfortunately the difficulties have now spread to effecting Angelo’s business and his sister Fina. Luka, Angelo, Knox, and even Fina gets dragged into the danger and they all nearly get put into harm’s way when they go searching for Chiara and who ever kidnapped her.
Meanwhile, Chiara is holding her own with her captors and she’s not only learning more about Luka, Angelo, and Knox and in the process, she also learns more about herself and the kind of person she is and this includes how far she’s willing to go to protect and defend the people she loves and what she considers to be hers.
Chiara, she’s just full of the sass and she’s one that’s not willing to back down when it comes to her husband Angelo. As sexy and attractive Chiara may find Angelo, she’s still not happy that he forced her hand and forced her into marrying him. She’s also fully aware that she doesn’t know the full story as to why he went through with the wedding.
Chiara finds her ever growing feelings for Luka who happens to be Angelo’s half-brother, (Luka and Angelo have the same father. Their father while acknowledging Angelo neither acknowledged or took responsibility for Luka.) have gown ever deeper. Chira also realizes that she’s also become overly protective of Luka, especially after she learns about his past. I loved Luka too. He had this vulnerability about him along with theses sweet golden retriever vibes.
At the same time Chiara’s feelings for Knox have also grown stronger and gained an intensity. This annoys Angelo, because no matter what he tries to do to get close to his wife, she keeps pushing him away.
It doesn’t help that Chiara’s deep-seated distain for Angelo and Luka’s father, Lorenzo, has only deepened. And it all stems from the fact that Lorenzo has this total lack of empathy for any of his kids, and that angers her beyond words. Chirara feels like she’s the only one who truly see’s that Lorenzo only sees his kids as his pawns to be used in his thirst for power and complete control, and on top of that what advantages they can bring and give to him.
I loved how action-packed and spicy this book is right from the get go. We see that Angelo, Luka, and even Knox can’t help but get pulled into her orbit and will do anything and everything for her and they’ll go to any length that they have to in order to ensure that they keep her safe, especially everything that happened at the end of the 1st book.
Chiara soon realizes that she does in fact have feelings for her husband, but at the same time he’s shown repeatedly that yes, he’s a pain in the butt and sure, he can be controlling. But, at the same time, he’s also made sure that she’s also taken care of all the time, even if that means that her husband has been taking a step back and allowing Luka and Knox to look after her.
I really enjoyed both books and thought that they were really well written with well thought out and well-developed characters who grew through the course of both books and had fantastic character arcs. I loved the humour, the action-packed scenes, and all the steam and spice. I adored that Ava gave us an FMC who was strong, independent, intelligent, and yet could still be vulnerable enough to admit to loving be taken care of. Chiara has this huge heart who was willing to put herself out there and she was always willing to try and help others who needed the help.
First Angelo forces Chiara to marry him and then the tension amps up as Angelo’s sister Fina is forced into her own marriage that she doesn’t want. This echoes a lot of what we already heard from Chiara and it echoes a lot of what Chiara has already endured. And it’s here that power, control, and family obligation collide head on, and this makes every decision feel even more hard hitting and like it could explode at every moment.
What I loved most of all about this book is how Ava balanced the suspense and the sensuality so perfectly and so beautifully. All together it leaves you desperate for more answers, crying and craving for more chaos. This book doesn’t just continue and conclude the story – it also deepens the obsession.
Between putting on naughty cam shows for my a-hole husband and flirting with his grumpy enforcer, life as an unwilling mafia bride is…not so bad.
With Luka as my sexy partner in crime, I’m way too busy day drinking, binging reality TV shows, and eating my body weight in baked goods to plan an escape.
But trouble has a way of finding me, and Angelo is no longer my biggest threat.
Our enemies are closing in on all sides.
We don’t know who’s pulling the strings, but one thing is if Angelo can’t figure it out, it’s not just my life at risk - it’s the lives of everyone I care about.
Especially Luka.
Angelo is the man I love to hate, but he might just be the one person who can save us.
---
Requiem of Rage is book two in the Empire of Pain trilogy and will conclude with a HAE. The duet is a MFMM why choose mafia romance (no MM). For TWs, see the note at the beginning of the 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 may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Why Choose, Contemporary, Multi 1st Person POV, Mafia Romance, Marriage of Convivence, Runaway Bride, It’s Always been Her, Poly (3+ People), Slow-Burn, Runaway Bride, Shocking Betrayals, Clever Banter, Forced Proximity, Enemies-to-Lovers, Funny, MFMM Romance/No MM, Competent FMC, Independent FMC, Alpha Male, Possessive MMC, Bodyguard/Protector MMC, Guaranteed HEA.
Requiem of Rage is the 2nd book in the Empire of Pain Duet by Ava Summers.
Requiem of Rage picks up right where the first book Sympathy of Sorrow left off, and man was I happy to get my hands on this book given that cliffhanger the first book left us hanging on. This book is full of drama, the plot is well developed with exciting full sup-plots and the storyline is entertaining and enthralling.
As expected, Chiara, Luka, Angelo, and Knox (Chiara’s three hot as sin men) still have their difficulties, and unfortunately the difficulties have now spread to effecting Angelo’s business and his sister Fina. Luka, Angelo, Knox, and even Fina gets dragged into the danger and they all nearly get put into harm’s way when they go searching for Chiara and who ever kidnapped her.
Meanwhile, Chiara is holding her own with her captors and she’s not only learning more about Luka, Angelo, and Knox and in the process, she also learns more about herself and the kind of person she is and this includes how far she’s willing to go to protect and defend the people she loves and what she considers to be hers.
Chiara, she’s just full of the sass and she’s one that’s not willing to back down when it comes to her husband Angelo. As sexy and attractive Chiara may find Angelo, she’s still not happy that he forced her hand and forced her into marrying him. She’s also fully aware that she doesn’t know the full story as to why he went through with the wedding.
Chiara finds her ever growing feelings for Luka who happens to be Angelo’s half-brother, (Luka and Angelo have the same father. Their father while acknowledging Angelo neither acknowledged or took responsibility for Luka.) have gown ever deeper. Chira also realizes that she’s also become overly protective of Luka, especially after she learns about his past. I loved Luka too. He had this vulnerability about him along with theses sweet golden retriever vibes.
At the same time Chiara’s feelings for Knox have also grown stronger and gained an intensity. This annoys Angelo, because no matter what he tries to do to get close to his wife, she keeps pushing him away.
It doesn’t help that Chiara’s deep-seated distain for Angelo and Luka’s father, Lorenzo, has only deepened. And it all stems from the fact that Lorenzo has this total lack of empathy for any of his kids, and that angers her beyond words. Chirara feels like she’s the only one who truly see’s that Lorenzo only sees his kids as his pawns to be used in his thirst for power and complete control, and on top of that what advantages they can bring and give to him.
I loved how action-packed and spicy this book is right from the get go. We see that Angelo, Luka, and even Knox can’t help but get pulled into her orbit and will do anything and everything for her and they’ll go to any length that they have to in order to ensure that they keep her safe, especially everything that happened at the end of the 1st book.
Chiara soon realizes that she does in fact have feelings for her husband, but at the same time he’s shown repeatedly that yes, he’s a pain in the butt and sure, he can be controlling. But, at the same time, he’s also made sure that she’s also taken care of all the time, even if that means that her husband has been taking a step back and allowing Luka and Knox to look after her.
I really enjoyed both books and thought that they were really well written with well thought out and well-developed characters who grew through the course of both books and had fantastic character arcs. I loved the humour, the action-packed scenes, and all the steam and spice. I adored that Ava gave us an FMC who was strong, independent, intelligent, and yet could still be vulnerable enough to admit to loving be taken care of. Chiara has this huge heart who was willing to put herself out there and she was always willing to try and help others who needed the help.
First Angelo forces Chiara to marry him and then the tension amps up as Angelo’s sister Fina is forced into her own marriage that she doesn’t want. This echoes a lot of what we already heard from Chiara and it echoes a lot of what Chiara has already endured. And it’s here that power, control, and family obligation collide head on, and this makes every decision feel even more hard hitting and like it could explode at every moment.
What I loved most of all about this book is how Ava balanced the suspense and the sensuality so perfectly and so beautifully. All together it leaves you desperate for more answers, crying and craving for more chaos. This book doesn’t just continue and conclude the story – it also deepens the obsession.
February 28, 2026
Requiem of Rage is book 2 in the Empire of Pain Duet and picks up right where we left off in Symphony of Sorrow. There are a lot of moving parts and the story moves pretty quickly. There were a few moments where I felt like we've already circled this road but other than that I was fully engaged. I loved the relationship development between Luka and Chiara and Kane Chiara but wanted more between Angelo and Chiara. I was rooting for this man and her insistence on hating him even when she knew she didn't was sending me spiraling. The spice was spicin but didn't distract from the plot. It was delicious. Overall, I enjoyed the read and thought it was great conclusion to this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to say this 2nd book was just as good as the 1st in the series. I love the sassiness of Chiara. She will not back down when it comes to Angelo. She may find him sexy, but he still forced her into a marriage she didn't want, even though she doesn't know the full story as to why he went ahead with it. She finds that her feelings for Luka, his younger brother, have deepened, and she becomes very protective of him when she learns about his past. Her feelings for Knox also intensify, which annoys Angelo, because, no matter what he does, she pulls away from him, her husband! Her hatred for their father, Lorenzo, deepened. His total lack of empathy for his children angers her. They are just pawns for his thirst for power and control, and what advantages they can give him.
The book is action-packed and steamy from the start. The men are drawn into Chiara's orbit and will go to any lengths to keep her safe after what happened at the end of the first book. Chiara tries to fight her feelings towards her husband, but realises that he has shown repeatedly that yes, he is a pain in her backside and he's controlling, but he has always made sure she is taken care of, even if he means he has stepped back and let the other men look after her.
Both books in the series I read in one sitting. I thought they were well written, with great characters, funny, action-packed, and steamy. I loved that the FMC was strong, independent, but still loved to be taken care of. She had a big heart and was willing to put herself out there to help others.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is action-packed and steamy from the start. The men are drawn into Chiara's orbit and will go to any lengths to keep her safe after what happened at the end of the first book. Chiara tries to fight her feelings towards her husband, but realises that he has shown repeatedly that yes, he is a pain in her backside and he's controlling, but he has always made sure she is taken care of, even if he means he has stepped back and let the other men look after her.
Both books in the series I read in one sitting. I thought they were well written, with great characters, funny, action-packed, and steamy. I loved that the FMC was strong, independent, but still loved to be taken care of. She had a big heart and was willing to put herself out there to help others.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The chaos continues in this conclusionary installment of the Empire of Pain duet.
This narrative picks up virtually right where the first left off; it does back track slightly, as readers gain insight to other characters’ reactions to Chiara’s peril.
There is a more concentrated focus on the mystery element(s) in relation to the orchestration of Chiara’s previous kidnapping, and the betrayals of Angelo’s operations. The mystery isn’t overly complex, but does add an additional level of intrigue, and escalates rather quickly once the characters begin asking questions.
The peril(s) employed in this installment does become repetitive, especially when taken in conjunction with the events of the previous installment. The tension overall was a bit underwhelming, partially due to the inconsistent, dragging pacing, and generally didn’t mirror the suspense built in the first book as well as it could have. Often, it seemed the events presented were not substantial enough to warrant the length of this book.
While there was some continued character growth across this narrative, I would have liked to see a bit more, as even in the epilogue(s) it didn’t seem like the characters were terribly altered by their experiences.
This book is the second in a duet, so it seems like it would go without saying, but it can’t be read as a standalone, or out of order. This narrative does conclude with a HEA/HFN for all of the main characters.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This narrative picks up virtually right where the first left off; it does back track slightly, as readers gain insight to other characters’ reactions to Chiara’s peril.
There is a more concentrated focus on the mystery element(s) in relation to the orchestration of Chiara’s previous kidnapping, and the betrayals of Angelo’s operations. The mystery isn’t overly complex, but does add an additional level of intrigue, and escalates rather quickly once the characters begin asking questions.
The peril(s) employed in this installment does become repetitive, especially when taken in conjunction with the events of the previous installment. The tension overall was a bit underwhelming, partially due to the inconsistent, dragging pacing, and generally didn’t mirror the suspense built in the first book as well as it could have. Often, it seemed the events presented were not substantial enough to warrant the length of this book.
While there was some continued character growth across this narrative, I would have liked to see a bit more, as even in the epilogue(s) it didn’t seem like the characters were terribly altered by their experiences.
This book is the second in a duet, so it seems like it would go without saying, but it can’t be read as a standalone, or out of order. This narrative does conclude with a HEA/HFN for all of the main characters.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Buckle up, because **book 2 turns the heat way up while tightening the mystery** 🔥🖤
The danger doesn’t slow down—it sharpens. We’re still chasing answers about **why Chiara was kidnapped** and **who’s bold enough to come for Angelo’s throne**, and every revelation just pulls us deeper into the web. Trust is thin, enemies are closer than they appear, and the stakes feel intensely personal this time around.
As if that weren’t enough, there’s fresh tension added with **Angelo’s sister being forced into a marriage she doesn’t want**, echoing everything Chiara has already endured. Power, control, and family obligation collide hard, making every decision feel like it could explode at any moment.
But let’s talk about the spice—because wow. Angelo finally comes to terms with **sharing his wife with his brother and his best friend**, and that shift in mindset? Delicious. The chemistry crackles, the tension snaps, and when those walls finally come down, the scenes are **smoking hot** without losing the emotional weight behind them. It’s possessive, complicated, and undeniably addictive.
This installment balances suspense and sensuality beautifully, leaving you desperate for answers and craving more chaos. Book 2 doesn’t just continue the story—it **deepens the obsession**. 🌶️🔥
The danger doesn’t slow down—it sharpens. We’re still chasing answers about **why Chiara was kidnapped** and **who’s bold enough to come for Angelo’s throne**, and every revelation just pulls us deeper into the web. Trust is thin, enemies are closer than they appear, and the stakes feel intensely personal this time around.
As if that weren’t enough, there’s fresh tension added with **Angelo’s sister being forced into a marriage she doesn’t want**, echoing everything Chiara has already endured. Power, control, and family obligation collide hard, making every decision feel like it could explode at any moment.
But let’s talk about the spice—because wow. Angelo finally comes to terms with **sharing his wife with his brother and his best friend**, and that shift in mindset? Delicious. The chemistry crackles, the tension snaps, and when those walls finally come down, the scenes are **smoking hot** without losing the emotional weight behind them. It’s possessive, complicated, and undeniably addictive.
This installment balances suspense and sensuality beautifully, leaving you desperate for answers and craving more chaos. Book 2 doesn’t just continue the story—it **deepens the obsession**. 🌶️🔥
Review of advance copy
Requiem of Rage picks up right where Symphony of Sorrow ends, and Ava Summers turns the intensity all the way up for a seriously satisfying finish to the Empire of Pain duet. Chiara’s revenge arc finally hits its explosive peak as she deals with her toxic arranged marriage to Angelo Di Rossi while her connections with Luka, the charming half brother, and the grumpy enforcer deepen. The why choose dynamic (MFMM, no MM) fully comes to life here, with steamy cam shows, power struggles, and real emotional connection that makes the heat feel earned.
The pacing is nonstop, packed with twists, betrayals, and high stakes mafia drama that kept me reading way too late. Chiara stays a standout FMC, fierce, unapologetic, and completely determined to control her own fate. The banter is witty and fun, the spice is explicit and intense (definitely a 4 to 5 out of 5), and the morally grey men get more depth as loyalties shift and the pressure builds. The ending wraps up the revenge plot in a way that feels cathartic, balancing possessive alpha energy with softer, emotional moments.
Overall, this is an addictive, dark, and spicy ending to the duet with Ava Summers’ signature mix of chaos, humour, and heat. If you loved book one, this absolutely delivers. Perfect for readers who love why choose mafia romance with strong heroines and toxic turned tender vibes.
The pacing is nonstop, packed with twists, betrayals, and high stakes mafia drama that kept me reading way too late. Chiara stays a standout FMC, fierce, unapologetic, and completely determined to control her own fate. The banter is witty and fun, the spice is explicit and intense (definitely a 4 to 5 out of 5), and the morally grey men get more depth as loyalties shift and the pressure builds. The ending wraps up the revenge plot in a way that feels cathartic, balancing possessive alpha energy with softer, emotional moments.
Overall, this is an addictive, dark, and spicy ending to the duet with Ava Summers’ signature mix of chaos, humour, and heat. If you loved book one, this absolutely delivers. Perfect for readers who love why choose mafia romance with strong heroines and toxic turned tender vibes.
March 3, 2026
It was difficult to put this book down. I was lucky to receive an advanced review copy for book one via NetGally (I believe), a while back and since I enjoyed it and reviewed it immediately, I was actually offered an advanced copy of this one, but I had just started a new series and didn’t want to be held to a specific timeline so I passed. Two days ago I was finally able to get this via Amazon Kindle. WOWZA! Book 2 of “Empire of Pain,” did not disappoint either.
The first book was good, however, I found that this one was even better. The recipe for a good R.H. mafia novel such as this included: lots of action, comedy, character growth, relationship growth, dominant males, sick twisted men, fierce and snarky woman and of course steamy romance scenes.
I normally find RH works better with the paranormal, as without paranormal characters they often tend to be a bit off. However,this book didn’t come off weird. It flowed beautifully.
I had not heard of this author prior to getting the first book, subsequently, I have now become a fan of Ava Summers and will continue to read some of her other books after this. I’m actually sad that this book has ended, but we end with a HEA and I cannot see her expanding on this any further without becoming tedious.
The first book was good, however, I found that this one was even better. The recipe for a good R.H. mafia novel such as this included: lots of action, comedy, character growth, relationship growth, dominant males, sick twisted men, fierce and snarky woman and of course steamy romance scenes.
I normally find RH works better with the paranormal, as without paranormal characters they often tend to be a bit off. However,this book didn’t come off weird. It flowed beautifully.
I had not heard of this author prior to getting the first book, subsequently, I have now become a fan of Ava Summers and will continue to read some of her other books after this. I’m actually sad that this book has ended, but we end with a HEA and I cannot see her expanding on this any further without becoming tedious.
Review of advance copy
We pick right back up where we left off at the cliffhanger from the previous book in this duet and things are not looking too great for Chiara.
This was a well-done why choose, dark mafia romance and I absolutely whipped through it. The first book in this duet was phenomenal and while this was still a strong book and a mostly great time, at times it did get a little bit repetitive and Chiara’s whole ‘I must do everything in my power to hate my husband and convince myself he’s a terrible person who doesn’t care about me’ routine gets extremely tiresome.
Other than that, the plot is pretty solid and we have a lot of moving parts with some spicy scenes sprinkled in. For the most part, this is balanced and the spice doesn’t take away from the plot. That being said, at a couple of points the pacing was a small issue but overall I still loved this book. I just wish we had gotten more love for Angelo than we did. I was really rooting for him the whole time.
Thank you to book sirens and to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. It was a very satisfying end to the duet and there were no loose ends that were left over from the plots.
4⭐️
3🌶️
This was a well-done why choose, dark mafia romance and I absolutely whipped through it. The first book in this duet was phenomenal and while this was still a strong book and a mostly great time, at times it did get a little bit repetitive and Chiara’s whole ‘I must do everything in my power to hate my husband and convince myself he’s a terrible person who doesn’t care about me’ routine gets extremely tiresome.
Other than that, the plot is pretty solid and we have a lot of moving parts with some spicy scenes sprinkled in. For the most part, this is balanced and the spice doesn’t take away from the plot. That being said, at a couple of points the pacing was a small issue but overall I still loved this book. I just wish we had gotten more love for Angelo than we did. I was really rooting for him the whole time.
Thank you to book sirens and to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. It was a very satisfying end to the duet and there were no loose ends that were left over from the plots.
4⭐️
3🌶️
Review of advance copy
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Mafia Romance
*Arranged Marriage
*Runaway Bride
*Always been her
*Established Harem (3)
*Slow Burn
*Book 2 / 2
Plenty of drama and action
Oft this book picks up right in the middle of the drama created from the last one, you have to feel for Chiara but it truly shows the lengths Angelo will go to protect her 😍 shame that it still took a while in this book for her to come round to him despite what he does for her but glad she does in the end! She shows Luka his worth and does what she can to protect him! Then with Kane she brings him closer to the family and a bit of light to him, and then with Angelo she challenges and tames him 😃 There’s plenty of drama and action in this book with the de Rossi family and Chiara shows the strength of her nature and love for those around her 👸 she absolutely goes to bat for her bestie and loved that connection for her!
The pace is good with a balance mix of story and seggsy scenes for them! A deserved HEA for this unit 🙂
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Mafia Romance
*Arranged Marriage
*Runaway Bride
*Always been her
*Established Harem (3)
*Slow Burn
*Book 2 / 2
Plenty of drama and action
Oft this book picks up right in the middle of the drama created from the last one, you have to feel for Chiara but it truly shows the lengths Angelo will go to protect her 😍 shame that it still took a while in this book for her to come round to him despite what he does for her but glad she does in the end! She shows Luka his worth and does what she can to protect him! Then with Kane she brings him closer to the family and a bit of light to him, and then with Angelo she challenges and tames him 😃 There’s plenty of drama and action in this book with the de Rossi family and Chiara shows the strength of her nature and love for those around her 👸 she absolutely goes to bat for her bestie and loved that connection for her!
The pace is good with a balance mix of story and seggsy scenes for them! A deserved HEA for this unit 🙂
March 1, 2026
I was not ready for this book. It surprised me in all the best ways. And it exceeded my expectations. This dark why choose mafia romance is full of action and loaded with spice. Loved the FMC, Chiara, she really is one of those kind of characters that stands out because she speaks her mind, has a spark to her, and knows what she wants. I also liked that the MMC's, they each where so in tuned to the FMC and they each had their own unique personalities and qualities that made them stand out. There's danger lurking with enemies closer than you'd think. The revelations they just kept coming and were strategically placed. The narrative is masterfully crafted, drawing you in with every page turned. I couldn't get enough of this story. And I can't wait to see what's next, where the story is going to take things.
Thanks so much to the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.
Thanks so much to the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.
February 26, 2026
We pick up where the cliffhanger left us in book 1 and it was non-stop action from there on out. I was legit on the edge of my seat. I love Chiara so much, she has been one of my favorite FMCs. She is so strong and when someone goes after someone she cares about she is relentlessly fierce in her protectiveness.
As things progressed further in her relationships with Luka and Kane, it took a lot more for things to finally fall into place with Angelo. And man was it satisfying after all that tension and build-up it was so worth it. Each unique connection that developed between Chiara and her guys was so beautiful and deliciously hot. This was one of the best RH mafia duets I've read in a long time i enjoyed every moment. Not only was there a fantastic steamy romance with amazing characters but the plot was exciting and action-packed.
As things progressed further in her relationships with Luka and Kane, it took a lot more for things to finally fall into place with Angelo. And man was it satisfying after all that tension and build-up it was so worth it. Each unique connection that developed between Chiara and her guys was so beautiful and deliciously hot. This was one of the best RH mafia duets I've read in a long time i enjoyed every moment. Not only was there a fantastic steamy romance with amazing characters but the plot was exciting and action-packed.
Review of advance copy
Has this actually finished????
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, but want more…..
I love that they all in a way got there happy every after but cant help but feel that a but was missing. I kinda wanted to see Angelo, give Chiara the option to release her from their marriage contract (obviously she would say no as she actually loves him lol)
The plot was great and seeing how Lorenzo would go to such lengths to keep all in his control with Remington was a good twist. I knew that it had to do with Paris, but i didnt expect it how it was played out. I thought Paris would show up as a protagonist.
All in all a great read with twists and turns that kept me wanting more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, but want more…..
I love that they all in a way got there happy every after but cant help but feel that a but was missing. I kinda wanted to see Angelo, give Chiara the option to release her from their marriage contract (obviously she would say no as she actually loves him lol)
The plot was great and seeing how Lorenzo would go to such lengths to keep all in his control with Remington was a good twist. I knew that it had to do with Paris, but i didnt expect it how it was played out. I thought Paris would show up as a protagonist.
All in all a great read with twists and turns that kept me wanting more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review – Requiem of Rage by Ava Summers
I just finished Requiem of Rage and WOW—what a ride. We jump straight back into the chaos from book one, and the tension does not let up. Twists, power plays, emotional messiness, and a finale that ties everything together while still leaving you wishing for a little more time with these characters.
The storyline after her kidnapping in book one was interesting and then how the ‘hunt’ is then featured later on in the book. The conflicts from book one I feel were successfully resolved in this book but still feel there could be scope for more .
📅 Publication Date: 25 February 2026.
🔥 Spice Rating: 5🌶️
Thank you to the Ava for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💫
I just finished Requiem of Rage and WOW—what a ride. We jump straight back into the chaos from book one, and the tension does not let up. Twists, power plays, emotional messiness, and a finale that ties everything together while still leaving you wishing for a little more time with these characters.
The storyline after her kidnapping in book one was interesting and then how the ‘hunt’ is then featured later on in the book. The conflicts from book one I feel were successfully resolved in this book but still feel there could be scope for more .
📅 Publication Date: 25 February 2026.
🔥 Spice Rating: 5🌶️
Thank you to the Ava for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💫
Review of advance copy
4.5 ⭐
Thank you booksprout for the arc!!😍
Can we speak about how book one finished on SUCH a cliffhanger??!! To carry on with the twists, turns and even more excitement throughout book two; I’m still in complete AWE with Chiara and her relationship with the boys absolutely unreal and can we talk about how they all finally come to the conclusion of being each others rather then going behind Angelo’s back everyday 🤣😬 the relationship she has with them all is IMPECCABLE.
I fully cannot believe that series has come to an end already this is one of the little series I could re read and that says something 😍
Angelo’s daddy you had it coming to you and I am so glad you finally got what you deserved..
book two for sure doesn’t just continue the story it deepens THE OBSESSION 🌶️ 😍
Thank you booksprout for the arc!!😍
Can we speak about how book one finished on SUCH a cliffhanger??!! To carry on with the twists, turns and even more excitement throughout book two; I’m still in complete AWE with Chiara and her relationship with the boys absolutely unreal and can we talk about how they all finally come to the conclusion of being each others rather then going behind Angelo’s back everyday 🤣😬 the relationship she has with them all is IMPECCABLE.
I fully cannot believe that series has come to an end already this is one of the little series I could re read and that says something 😍
Angelo’s daddy you had it coming to you and I am so glad you finally got what you deserved..
book two for sure doesn’t just continue the story it deepens THE OBSESSION 🌶️ 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me just as hooked and invested as the first book in this series. Chiara is so very sassy and does not end when it comes to Angelo. There’s still animosity but she at least isn’t continuing to hide her attraction. However the relationship between her and Luka is heating up. As is what she feels for Knox, which only serves to annoy Angelo. And everyone hates Lorenzo. I know I do. That man is the worst. It was really sweet to see Chiara realizing that Angelo does care for her and for her to come to appreciate and accept that. There’s a lot of drama and intrigue and steam in this story. I couldn’t put it down at all. Everything here keeps you invested and intrigued. I couldn’t put this book down. The ending was exactly what was warranted.
Review of advance copy
This book is book 2 in the empire of pain duet. In book one we saw chiara runaway on her wedding night. After being forced to Marry Angelo. A year later she is located and brought back against her will. Angelo is set to inherit the ‘family business’ his Dad is evil. In book 2 we see the relationships between Luka, Kane, Chiara and Angelo develop. Lots of traumatic attacks on the family from an unknown source. Chiara is a strong and formidable FMC and she is unapologetic in her actions. This was an exciting and well written story. I look forward to reading more books by Ava Summers as I love her writing style, it is smooth and engaging and the characters and story building is excellent.
February 19, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you booksprout for this arc!
Following on from the cliffhanger of book 1 there are so many more twists, turns and spice in this book.
I am still just as obsessed with chiara, luka, Kane and angelo’s relationship and also the relationships around them.
They had issue after issue being thrown at them but they always came out on top. I love the spice in this book but also the why choose relationship is unlike any I’ve come across before.
Super invested to see if anymore books come out for the people in their lives and will definitely be picking them up if they do.
I am gutted to be done with this series and it will for sure be a reread series for me
Thank you booksprout for this arc!
Following on from the cliffhanger of book 1 there are so many more twists, turns and spice in this book.
I am still just as obsessed with chiara, luka, Kane and angelo’s relationship and also the relationships around them.
They had issue after issue being thrown at them but they always came out on top. I love the spice in this book but also the why choose relationship is unlike any I’ve come across before.
Super invested to see if anymore books come out for the people in their lives and will definitely be picking them up if they do.
I am gutted to be done with this series and it will for sure be a reread series for me
Review of advance copy
I was devastated at the end of book 1 cliffhanger, so when I got the opportunity to ARC read book 2, I jumped. Absolutely devoured this book!
The tension was tensing, the smut was smutting, and the ending was so satisfying.
I loved the different dynamics Chiara had with each of her men. She could be soft and goofy with Luca, playful but rougher with Kane, and downright filthy with Angelo. But underneath all of that was four people that loved each other, despite everything.
As happy as I was with how the story ended, I was not (and am still not) ready to let them go!
Thank you to Booksprout and Ava Summers for the advance copy!
The tension was tensing, the smut was smutting, and the ending was so satisfying.
I loved the different dynamics Chiara had with each of her men. She could be soft and goofy with Luca, playful but rougher with Kane, and downright filthy with Angelo. But underneath all of that was four people that loved each other, despite everything.
As happy as I was with how the story ended, I was not (and am still not) ready to let them go!
Thank you to Booksprout and Ava Summers for the advance copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I Cherished This Mafia Chaos
OMG BESTIES. The chaos did not just continue... it escalated. 😮🔥 "Requiem of Rage" delivers everything Book 1 promised and then cranks the heat up. Chiara is still that snarky, feminine-rage queen we adore, but now the stakes are deadly. Enemies are closing in, secrets are unraveling, and suddenly Angelo’s suffocating control isn’t the biggest threat in the room.
Speaking of Angelo… it took this man a hot minute to unclench and finally accept sharing Chiara with Kane and Luka. But when he did? The tension shifted in the best way. The spice in this installment is next-level and perfectly balanced with suspense and danger. Protective, possessive, chaotic men who would burn the world down? Yes please.
The banter, the mystery, the emotional payoff... and that HEA? Completely worth the wild ride.🖤
This duet is absolutely TBR-worthy. Dark mafia romance lovers, run don’t walk.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
OMG BESTIES. The chaos did not just continue... it escalated. 😮🔥 "Requiem of Rage" delivers everything Book 1 promised and then cranks the heat up. Chiara is still that snarky, feminine-rage queen we adore, but now the stakes are deadly. Enemies are closing in, secrets are unraveling, and suddenly Angelo’s suffocating control isn’t the biggest threat in the room.
Speaking of Angelo… it took this man a hot minute to unclench and finally accept sharing Chiara with Kane and Luka. But when he did? The tension shifted in the best way. The spice in this installment is next-level and perfectly balanced with suspense and danger. Protective, possessive, chaotic men who would burn the world down? Yes please.
The banter, the mystery, the emotional payoff... and that HEA? Completely worth the wild ride.🖤
This duet is absolutely TBR-worthy. Dark mafia romance lovers, run don’t walk.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3.5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Review of advance copy
I love Ava’s writing, her books are so easy to fall into, full of humour as well as spicy and shadowed with darkness.
Chiara is just the best fmc, I love her humour, she gets drunk and just says it like it is. Don’t we all wish we could do that?
Her relationships develop with all three of her men, still absolutely love Luka, but omg Angelo, grumpy suit daddy!
This had everything, action, humour, kidnapping, protective ‘who did this to you vibes’ and spiciness in spades. Plus cameos from Thea, Kyril and the Kelly brothers. (Read the Empire of Carnage series for these characters, truly fantastic series)
The only thing that could have made this better was another book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chiara is just the best fmc, I love her humour, she gets drunk and just says it like it is. Don’t we all wish we could do that?
Her relationships develop with all three of her men, still absolutely love Luka, but omg Angelo, grumpy suit daddy!
This had everything, action, humour, kidnapping, protective ‘who did this to you vibes’ and spiciness in spades. Plus cameos from Thea, Kyril and the Kelly brothers. (Read the Empire of Carnage series for these characters, truly fantastic series)
The only thing that could have made this better was another book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Want to Read
February 25, 2026Requiem of Rage by Ava Summers
MMC: Angelo.
FMC: Chiara
🩵why choose
✨Multi-1st-PoV
🩵mafia romance
✨arranged marriage
🩵Established Harem (3)
🫶🏻slow burn/always been her
I have to say this 2nd book was just as good as the 1st in the series. I love the sassiness of Chiara. She will not back down when it comes to Angelo. We’re still chasing answers about why Chiara was kidnapped. Who was bold enough to come for Angelo’s throne? Every revelation just pulls us deeper into the web. It still took a while in this book for her to come round to him despite what he does for her but glad she does (even though it took way longer than I would have liked)
MMC: Angelo.
FMC: Chiara
🩵why choose
✨Multi-1st-PoV
🩵mafia romance
✨arranged marriage
🩵Established Harem (3)
🫶🏻slow burn/always been her
I have to say this 2nd book was just as good as the 1st in the series. I love the sassiness of Chiara. She will not back down when it comes to Angelo. We’re still chasing answers about why Chiara was kidnapped. Who was bold enough to come for Angelo’s throne? Every revelation just pulls us deeper into the web. It still took a while in this book for her to come round to him despite what he does for her but glad she does (even though it took way longer than I would have liked)
March 15, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved reading this book it was definitely amazing and one not to be missed, the story grabs your attention from the start. Chiara married Angelo and it was not by choice, Angelo is a Don and his Enforcer is Kane and he is always beside his boss protecting him from their enemies. Luka is a model and Angelo's half brother their father didn't acknowledge him, so when the father died Angelo was there for Luka. Chiara and Luka they became very close he would listen to her. This was twisted with the three men and a lady, she can be jealous when people want one of the men because they are hers.
I loved reading this book it was definitely amazing and one not to be missed, the story grabs your attention from the start. Chiara married Angelo and it was not by choice, Angelo is a Don and his Enforcer is Kane and he is always beside his boss protecting him from their enemies. Luka is a model and Angelo's half brother their father didn't acknowledge him, so when the father died Angelo was there for Luka. Chiara and Luka they became very close he would listen to her. This was twisted with the three men and a lady, she can be jealous when people want one of the men because they are hers.
Review of advance copy
Wow! This was an amazing end to this duet. The last book had me screaming at the end with that cliffhanger and boy did this book not disappoint! We get all the chemistry and spice between Chiara and her men with the conclusion to the story in-between. I read this book in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down. Angelo with his sexy brooding, saying, " My Wife". Kane with the way he always keeps her safe. Luka ( my favorite) with his vulnerability and golden retriever vibes ... Absolute chef's kiss 💋💋.
February 14, 2026
Requiem of Rage was the perfect follow up to the spectacular Symphony of Sorrow, which was so good I read it in one day. Requiem was full of conflict and romantic tension as well as increased stakes and more action. The characters were tested again and again and they all grew organically as individuals and within the group. The love scenes also ratcheted up and were supremely satisfying. This was an extremely well done dark romance with plenty to keep the reader interested and invested with the best HEA.
Review of advance copy
Well after leaving us with a cliffhanger in Symphony of Sorrows I was keen to find out what happened so happily read book two in the Empire of Pain duet.
Requiem of Rage picks up right where we left off and it’s full of drama and lots of action. I was right and the spice definitely increased in book two, well Chiara does have three men after all!
It’s an easy read with likeable characters and lots of banter, despite being a mafia romance it’s definitely not too dark with Chiara being the comic relief needed. It ends with a HEA so finishes off the duet nicely.
4/5⭐️
4/5🌶️ (a low 4)
Requiem of Rage picks up right where we left off and it’s full of drama and lots of action. I was right and the spice definitely increased in book two, well Chiara does have three men after all!
It’s an easy read with likeable characters and lots of banter, despite being a mafia romance it’s definitely not too dark with Chiara being the comic relief needed. It ends with a HEA so finishes off the duet nicely.
4/5⭐️
4/5🌶️ (a low 4)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I so enjoyed this duet! All of the slow-burn, backstory stuff happens in book one, so this book has all of the fast-paced drama and intrigue (plus significantly more spice).
I highly recommend the Empire of Pain duet to anyone who loves mafia romances, dark romance, why choose, or a little reverse harem action. Grab both books before starting so that you don’t have to concern yourself with cliffhangers.
Happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I highly recommend the Empire of Pain duet to anyone who loves mafia romances, dark romance, why choose, or a little reverse harem action. Grab both books before starting so that you don’t have to concern yourself with cliffhangers.
Happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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