Lovely Venom

Empire of Kings #3

by A. Zavarelli

I’ve spent six years hiding behind a fake identity, too many deadbolts, and secrets that could destroy me.
Trust isn’t an option. Especially when it comes to the man who doesn’t know I’m rival blood.
In the Cosa Nostra, they call him Il Corvo—the Raven.
On the surface, he’s cold, controlled, aloof…and definitely not interested.
So I made a deal with a mysterious masked stranger instead.
It was supposed to be a simple arrangement. He would help me explore my desires and overcome my fears. No names, no attachments. But when it got too real, I ran.
What I didn’t know was that he had secrets of his own.
Because the man who’s haunted me for the last three years?
He might go by a different name…
But he and the Raven are one and the same.

Genres: Dark Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Mafia Romance, Found Family, Dark, Forced Proximity

450 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 18, 2026

About the author

A. Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.

When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.

She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.


Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor

Facebook Reader Group- https://geni.us/FemmeFatales

Mailing List: https://geni.us/ucfAZH1

Instagram- https://geni.us/AZavarelliInstagram

Amazon- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAmazon

Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub

Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter

Website- https://www.azavarelli.com

Reviews

[Kursed Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Chantel flees Sanctum after things with Bran become too intense, she cuts off all communication.

Three years later, she reaches out again, and Bran is elated. But things quickly become complicated when Chantel finds herself in a situationship with Cristian Vitale, while her escalating stalker keeps pulling him deeper into her life.

As the lines between everything begin to blur, Chantel discovers that Cristian’s apparent hatred for her isn’t quite what it seems. And she’s harboring secrets of her own that could change everything.

This one wasn’t action-packed or particularly dark and gritty. It was more of a slow, steady build as Chantel learned to trust and lean on Cristian.

And Cristian knew exactly what would spook her and exactly how to handle her, both in and out of the bedroom. His quiet intensity and unflappable love for her were everything.

Knowing what he knew all along, and watching Chantel slowly figure it out, made his devotion that much better.

These two were everything. ❤️

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Format: 📱

🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark-ish, Mystery/Suspense, New Adult

Ending: 💗 {HEA}
Length: 📚📚📚📚📚
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 🥺🤬🥵🫠😍
Darkness: 🩶🩶
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Heroine in Danger, Hidden Identity, Hurt/Comfort, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Pen Pal (Online)
 
💫 Microtropes: Black Cat FMC, Boy Obsessed, Caretaker/Protective MMC, Caveman/Bridal Carry, Celibate MMC, “Good Girl”, Growl, Hand Necklace, He Falls First, He Falls Harder, Lap Sitting, Masked MMC, Pet Name (Dea, Princess), She’s a Runner, Secrets & Lies, Tattooed MMC, Tragic Past, “We’ll Make It Fit”, “Who Hurt You?”, “You Take Me So Well”

🔆 Character: Dancer, Illegal Enterprises

💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, Blindfold, Collared, Cum Jammer, Domination, Edging, Finger Licking Good, Handcuffs, Phone/FaceTime Fun, Pearl Necklace/Spunk Art, Praise, Spanking

🤰🏻 Pregnancy: Minor Storyline

🚩 Red Flags: Alphahole, Jealous/Possessive/Obsessive, Bulldozer MMC, Dominant MMC, MINE!, My Wife, Touch-Her-and-💀, Tracking/Spying

⛔️ Safety Squad: Assault (Not by MMC), OW/OM Drama (Not Really/Before Together • One Sided), Rape (Mentioned • Not by MMC), Stalking (Not by MMC), Unaliving, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. Triggers may appear both on- and off-page, in the past and/or present, and to main and/or side characters. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!

📍 Setting: Seattle, Washington 🇺🇸

📣 Type: Lovely Venom is part of the Empire of Kings series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.

⚠️ Warning: This sweet and smutty read will leave your panties damp, your cheeks flushed and have you DoorDashing batteries for BOB.

🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.

[mary ♡⋆ ࣪₊ꫂ᭪݁⋆˙ · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★.25

A. Zavarelli has me in a chokehold and I’m not even complaining 🤭

“I want to give you everything, Chantel, and I need it to be something you choose.”

I didn’t expect Cristian to be the gentlest soul everrr 🥹🥹🥹🥹

The Vitale brothers share a very special trait ✨ Stalking ✨ AND masks

I’m so obsessed with this series and the dynamics in every book, and this one was no different

Chantel spent years hiding behind a fake identity and running from her past. She can’t trust anyone and she’s traumatized, until Cristian steps up. She thinks he hates her, and she can’t want him because he’s her “situationship’s best friend” or so she thought. 👀
When an unfortunate thing happens one night, she understands why they call him Il Corvo, the Raven, because now he will never let anything hurt her, even when she’s still hiding so much from him

Cristian wasn’t supposed to fall for her, but he did. Even when she didn’t know who the man behind the mask was, even when she felt overwhelmed and left for three years, he waited. He never touched anyone else because he knew she needed the time, but when he caught her the second time, he was done waiting. It was time to take what’s his, even if the trust between them was still unbalanced. He would do anything to have her and protect her again 🤭🧎🏻‍♀️

“I’m not a liar or a cheat.” He presses the words against my ear. “And I haven’t been with anyone else in three years. Not since the first time I touched you.”

Their dynamic was top notch for me. I loved witnessing them slowly learn to trust each other and watching Chantel heal from her past while Cristian helped her through it. She deserves the world 🥹

This story definitely has some dark elements to it, so please check the TW on the author’s website

And for more reading enjoyment, read the first two books because you will definitely get obsessed with all these characters (Beautiful Torment,Pretty Prey)

I can’t wait to see how Ares will redeem himself in the following books because this man definitely has a LOT of work to do 🧍🏻‍♀️


buddy read with both my lovelies Milica & Miljana ❤️
—————
Pre read

ITS HERE 💃🏻
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I need this.. Like NOW

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[ApoorvaReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

this series is crack. give me the next one now!!

[Emma Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit it: when I realised Chantelle and Christian’s book was next, I was a little disappointed. 🙈 I know, I know… never judge a book before you’ve read it! Well, consider me thoroughly humbled because WOW. This book was AMAZING! 😍

I absolutely loved their story. There was so much more depth to both characters than we’d seen in the first two books, and getting to really dive into Chantel and Christian, their personalities, their pasts, and their relationship was everything. The way their relationship developed had me completely hooked. ❤️

And Christian… WHAT. A. MAN. 🥵 Absolute hunk. I mean, respectfully… sir, please leave some oxygen for the rest of us!

This whole series just keeps getting better, and I am now ridiculously excited for Mariella and Ares story next. I genuinely thought we might get a little teaser or some information about their book at the end, so imagine my disappointment when I turned the last page and got NOTHING. 😭

So, naturally, I’ll now be stalking the author until release day. No pressure. 😂

Honestly, I cannot wait! This entire series is fantastic, and I’m seriously considering going back and rereading the first two books because I just love these characters and this world so much. ❤️📚

Bring on Mariella and Ares story… I’m ready! (And possibly a little obsessed.) 😂

[dee☁️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

ATE THIS UPPPPPPPP Cristin was the definition of a man obsessed🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

[Buffy・❥・ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every.single.book in this series… the Vitale men 🥵🥵 if you love mafia, men wearing masks, stalking all of the best dark romance tropes this series is for you

[25 Readings Or More · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
Oh dear god how can i love a man so obsessed, so possessive and so dedicated to his woman he'll do anything - and i mean anything - to make her happy?!
'Cause just like his brothers, Cristian is perfection 😍😅🤣
What can i say? I have a soft spot for the Vitale brothers, but mostly i love their family bond 🖤
The story is fast paced and intriguing, even without shocking plot twists.
However what i'm really waiting for is Ares & Mariella' story. Sorry not so sorry. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[Sybrenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ “Tell me who hurt you” THISSSSSSSS is what i want in a mafia romance omg… from the plot to the romance, to the writing, i was SAT. I literally started highlighting in the PROLOGUE. The gentleness and care that Cristian gave Chantel all while exuding serious touch her and die vibes.. i was EATINGGGGG this up. Then that plot twist? Please, i was a big gagged not gonna lie lol. Plus, the book just made me even more excited to go read and the other characters books. This had everything i want in a mafia romance, oh this was so good.

[Andreea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely Venom by A. Zavarelli was a release I had been eagerly waiting for and I’m so happy it lived up to my expectations. I honestly don’t know which book from the series I’ve enjoyed the most so far, but I do know I can’t wait to read more from A. Zavarelli.

The author creates mafia romances that leave their mark on the reader. I’m always glad that it’s not the shocking moments that define her stories, but the intensity and emotion with which they are told. Chantel and Cristian have so many obstacles to overcome if they want their relationship to work, so the story moves at quite a fast pace. I was also incredibly curious to see how everything would come together in the end, which is why I devoured the story in a very short time. I also love books that make me cry, and Lovely Venom definitely did its job.

💘 “But I had no idea that while I was busy securing the fortress around my heart, I was robbing us of precious time.”

Cristian was such a memorable character, one I’m definitely going to remember remember because of his intensity. I love it when mmcs have a softer side when it comes to the women they love, wanting to protect them and be there for them and he definitely excels in this department. I also really enjoyed the storyline involving Bran, which, although quite obvious to the reader, adds a little bit of suspense when it comes to Chantel. The author played with the words and the story so beautifully and I was eagerly waiting for the moment when the truth would finally come to light because there are many secrets that could disrupt the fragile balance between the two of them.

💘 “Words alone mean nothing to Chantel. She expects that everyone will eventually betray her, and I’m not giving that fear another second to breathe.”

But beyond the relationship between Chantel and Cristian, I really loved the found family aspect of the story. The atmosphere the author creates makes you want to get to know every single character.

● ● ● ● ◐

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 nerdy ⭐️

[Miljana Milojkovic · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙄’𝙢 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝.”

I’m addicted to A. Zavarelli’s books and each book she writes is somehow even better than the previous one. She can do no wrong in my eyes. Period.

This book is the 3𝙧𝙙 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 in the 𝙀𝙢𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 series and my favorite one so far!! She set the standard really high for mafia romance books with this one and Cristian Vitale, the MMC in this book, is currently my favorite mafia man.

This story is so good, and the plot is executed to p e r f e c t i o n! I’m in a slump right now and don’t know what to read because no book can compare to this one. I need A. Zavarelli to hurry up with the next one!! AND I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!!! 🤍🤍🤍

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙡: “𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚.”
𝘾𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙣: “𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙. 𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙨.”

[blue]

I’m already emotionally invested in a book that hasn’t even been printed yet

AHHHHHH I CANT WAITTTTTTT

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely Venom was dark, intense, and completely addictive in that “I should probably take a break, but absolutely will not” kind of way. A. Zavarelli knows how to pull readers into a dangerous world filled with obsession, secrets, and morally questionable people who somehow still manage to own your heart. This book had a heavy, edgy atmosphere from the start, and I was hooked on the tension long before the romance fully hit its stride.

The chemistry between the main characters was seriously wild. Their relationship was messy, complicated, and not always easy to watch, but that was exactly what made it so compelling. There is a lot of push-and-pull, emotional baggage, and power imbalance to unpack, yet beneath all the darkness, there are vulnerable moments that made me understand why they kept finding their way back to each other. The hero is very much the kind of man readers will either want to shake or become completely obsessed with—possibly both at the same time.

I also loved how the suspense and darker themes kept the story from ever feeling too comfortable. The plot had enough twists and looming danger to keep the pages turning, and the supporting characters added layers without distracting from the central relationship. A few moments felt a little over-the-top, and there were times I wanted the characters to make better choices for the sake of my blood pressure, but honestly, that chaos is part of the appeal.

Overall, Lovely Venom is a deliciously dark, steamy, and emotionally charged read. It is not gentle or easygoing, but it delivers on angst, obsession, and high-stakes romance. I am giving it four stars because it kept me entertained, slightly stressed, and fully invested from beginning to end. If you enjoy dark romance with dangerous men, complicated heroines, and plenty of emotional turbulence, this one is worth adding to your list.

[Akku · Rating 5 out of 5]

• 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 5✨

• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - August 18, 2026

• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- dark mafia romance
- secretly obsessed hero
- he falls first
- hidden identity
- rival families
- possessive & protective hero
- forced proximity
- morally grey hero

• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Lovely Venom is the third interconnected standalone in the Empire of Kings series, and this one follows Cristian and Chantel. Chantel has spent years hiding behind a fake identity while carrying secrets that could put her in danger. Cristian is cold, controlled and feared in the mafia world, but behind that calm exterior is an obsession with Chantel that has been growing for years. When their paths finally collide, secrets, attraction and danger make it impossible for either of them to stay away.
I absolutely loved the dark and intense atmosphere of this book. Cristian was everything I wanted from a dark mafia MMC - quiet, patient, ruthless and completely obsessed with his woman. 🥵 Chantel was strong and resilient, and I really loved seeing her slowly learn to trust again.
The chemistry between them was SO good, and I loved the obsession, possessiveness and protective energy throughout the story. There was also plenty of banter, found family, emotional moments and twists that kept me hooked. 🥹❤️
A. Zavarelli really knows how to create these intense relationships while still giving the characters room to heal and grow. I was completely invested in Cristian and Chantel, and I honestly did not want their story to end.
This was such a fun and addictive dark romance read, and now I’m already impatient for the next couple book - Ares and Mariella book!!
Thank you candipr for the ARC!

[Stephanie]

Lovely Venom is book #3 of the Empire of Kings series and this is Cristian Vitale's story!!! It is set between the worlds of the Cosa Nostra and the IVI Secret Society. The men are strong, dominant and so possessive of their women. And the women - they are equally strong, feisty and loyal. They all have such sweet spots for family and their closest friends.

Lovely Venom is a long, slow burn, hot & steamy, dark mafia romance. The first half is very slow. Building up Cristian and Chantel's story. Showing their quirks and their kinks. There is no hurry to learn everything about them. There are a few twists and turns and a definite emotional bomb around Chantel's history/back story. My heart broke for Chantel and everything that she went through. Cristian was insanely in control, but he knew what Chantel needed. His patience was equally as insane. There is a lot of chemistry between Cristian and Chantel. There are plenty of sexy times and some darker sexy times.

I am really enjoying the Empire of Kings series. I can wait to see who is next! I am hoping for the only sister of the Vitale family, Mariella!!!

4.5 stars

#AuthorAshleighZavarelli #CristianAndChantel #BeautifulTorment #PrettyPrey #LovelyVenom #DarkRomance #Mystery

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cristian was the best. This man really surprised me. The way he was patient with Chantel and knew exactly what she needed and knew what would happen if he pushed, it was perfect. He was perfect. He knew just how to handle her and when to push her, but also when to just back off and leave her be. She had serious trust issues with men because of her past, and she was constantly expecting Cristian to screw up and prove her right- even though deep down she didn’t want to be right. She wanted to trust him and let her walls down, but there was one huge secret she was keeping and knew when Cristian found out it’d be a betrayal to him and his family.
Their story wasn’t really dark and action packed, but it did have its moments that kept you in suspense. And I really loved how it was a process for Chantel to trust Cristian. Even though they had intense chemistry, their relationship developed over time and it was perfect. I’m excited that Ares book is next. I’m looking forward to seeing how he redeems himself after all the shit he’s done. I like him, he has his moments- like how he stepped in to save Chantel and protect her, but he’s got his work cut out for when it comes to the Vitales, especially Mariella.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐦‍⬛🖤 I seriously have a weakness for these men, and at this point, I do not want a cure.

Lovely Venom gave me exactly the kind of morally questionable man I love finding between the pages of a book. Cold, controlled, mysterious, and dangerous? Add in the fact that he's known as Il Corvo—the Raven—and really, what was I supposed to do?

The masked-stranger element hooked me immediately. There's something delicious about knowing there's more happening beneath the surface while watching all those secrets and hidden identities slowly unravel.

But what really worked for me was the connection between these characters. Both of them are hiding pieces of themselves, both have reasons not to trust, and neither realizes just how tangled their lives have already become. The tension that creates made it very easy to keep turning the pages.

Mafia romance, rival blood, secrets, a mysterious masked man, and an MMC who is exactly the kind of fictional red flag I apparently collect for fun.

Do I recognize the problem?

Absolutely.

Am I interested in fixing it?

Absolutely not. 😂🖤

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Ela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a love story. It's an obsession.
If you're into bad boys who don't ask for your love — they just claim it — then Lovely Vicious by A. Zavarelli is about to wreck you in the best way.
Picture this: a world of gangs, buried secrets, and a toxic, possessive love that defies every ounce of logic. Morally gray characters, tension that crackles from page one, and the kind of dark romance that keeps you holding your breath until the last chapter.
If you're a fan of Rina Kent, Cora Reilly, or H.D. Carlton — this one's for you. 📖🔥
This isn't for readers who want a soft little love story. This is for the ones who want an obsession, and a love interest who scares you just a little... exactly the way you like it.

[Maria Angie Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very appropriately titled as I most definitely will drink this lovely venom over and over again!

Dark-ish, and intense our main character Cristian is unapologetically cold, calculating and super alpha controlling. Then just when you want to kick him on the throat he shows a side of him that has you swooning as he is completely lovely and endearing.
I really enjoyed how this story evolved and developed.
They weren’t supposed to actually like each other but as the story developed they made discoveries about the other drawing them close to each, and creating an intimate and trusting attitude.
The plot twists really tested their relationship read what happens!
4.5 stars!

[The Rampant Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and Candi Kane PR for the gifted e-copy.

“She spread through my veins and into the marrow of my bones, a venom so lovely and sweet. . .”

Vibes: the hero you want even when you shouldn’t

The push and pull in this book was perfect. She is guarded and he gives her support in every way. Acts of service your love language? Then this book is for you. He shows up in every way. Dirty mouth included.

Tropes:
Burlesque Dancer
Secret Identity
He Falls First
Obsessed MMC
Past Trauma
Hurt/Comfort

[Bria Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely devoured this book - stayed up until 2 am! This book is so good!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this. Cristian was perfection from start to finish.

[BridgetReadsTooMuch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book biting my nails and with my eyes clenched shut! I may be in the small minority, but I felt let down by Pretty Prey, and I had already started to fall in love with the dynamic between Chantel and Cristian that I did NOT want my heart broken.

I am truly happy to say that I was not disappointed! I left this book with all the feels. I laughed, I cried, I said, “Ok, wasn’t expecting that…”

A. Zavarelli did such a phenomenal job writing these two characters. The patience that Cristian has for Chantel is what every woman who has fallen, been beaten, or let down too many times needs to restore her faith in men, trust, love, and, most importantly, herself.

"But trust is an illusion, and I promised myself I’d never fall into that trap again."

She was just so scared that, years later, the monsters from her past were going to come back and get her. She was arming herself with discreet weaponry jewelry and hairpins and placing weapons within arm’s reach all over her house. This is someone who has locked herself in steel, and for a man to never give up on her is truly an act of God. As most of us know, a lot of men will give up when it gets too hard, but Cristian never did. He always saw that there was more to her and that she was worth it even when he thought he might have lost her. He just always knew that she wasn’t what she showed the outside world.

"The friends who knew her best call her a black cat. Independent, mysterious, and selective with her affection. To my detriment, I know that beneath her armor, she’s softer than she likes people to believe."

This is my psych background coming out, and I LOVE when authors write characters with substance, so bear with me.

Women who have suffered such a tragic past and are dealing with PTSD or OCD like Chantel can sometimes come across like a “black cat”, not because they mean to, but because they’ve lost that ability to freely place trust in other people. They’re wary of new people and may come across as “bitchy,” “aloof,” “shy,” or “standoffish.” It’s not because that’s who they are deep down. They’re using these masks and walls as ways to protect themselves from getting hurt or from hurting someone else. They’ll also make it hard to let people in and go out of their way not to put themselves in a place where they will be hurt or rejected.

Man…when she couldn’t concentrate and kept going through the OCD ritual until he came up behind her and told her she was safe and that he was there to protect her, I was CRYING for her. I understood that feeling of when you just can’t make it stick, and you’ve gone through it so many times that you start getting frustrated and upset with yourself.

But, seeing the growth of Chantel’s psyche, especially at the end when she let her walls down for him and didn’t care what happened to her after Cristian found out the truth, BROKE me. Maybe it’s because of all the research I’ve done on trauma, but knowing how hard it can be for women to face those feelings after everything they’ve survived made that part hit so much harder.

"This kind of agony was the exact thing I tried so hard to avoid. But the truth is, I’m not sure I would change it, even if I had a chance to do it over again. Because for one beautiful moment in time, I felt what it was like to be truly happy."

Aww…Cristian. THIS is the man I think we all wish was in our lives! He’s a protector, he’s a gentleman, he will go scorched earth for his family, he wears slutty glasses, but most of all, he’s patient. He will choose Chantel in every lifetime, no matter what; mafia, contracts, stalkers, Ares, etc. be damned.

And he still chose her after he found out who she was. Sure, he was upset, but this was his Raven Queen, his dea. It was always going to be her.

He saw a woman who had been broken by her past and gave her the safety and patience she needed to put herself back together. He knew she needed time to heal before she could fly back to him. He didn’t force her.
SIR. 😭

"He didn’t raise his voice or get frustrated with me. For an entire year, he helped me work through my trauma without asking for anything in return. He was my anchor through every storm, taming the chaos in my mind and unraveling years of tension in my body. With him, I had refuge that felt like home when nothing else had."

He watched her be with another man, and when she finally realizes all of this, he simply told her it’s okay: “you just weren’t ready yet.” His love for her is so strong and so solid that he would have waited a lifetime for her…SWOON!

A. Zavarelli, I thank you for giving us Cristian, not just because this man is a hot, morally gray, dark mafia romance character, but because on another level, this story showed us something much bigger.
Trauma is something people can fight alone in the darkness while masking it in the light through well timed sarcasm. Smiles that don’t reach the eyes should never be taken as the whole truth. Settling for Mr. Okay is, in fact, NOT okay. And waiting for the right person, the one who will be patient, make you feel safe, and stand beside you while you work through your trauma, will be worth it.

Watching (or rather, reading) the Raven King finally get his queen was such a great read! I loved the story, the writing, the plot…everything! This book didn’t just not disappoint; it went WAY beyond my expectations!!

I can’t wait to see how everything goes with Ares and Mariella in the next book! Their tension and the animosity she already has toward him are set up SO well!

P.S. Thank goodness for the translation feature on Kindle so I could understand all the sweet things he was saying to her in Italian. 😂 I lol-ed when she said he would sound hot reading a grocery list in Italian because…ARGEED.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazon/KU



Chantel lives a life looking over her shoulder, always, even while at work as a burlesque dancer. She was in an on-off something with a douche but now she's finally rid of him. Unfortunately she's also taken on a protector of sorts in Cristian Vitale, a man who can't stand her. She's close friends with his sister, and for some reason she offends him. Or does she? Because Cristian has secrets that she couldn't even have guessed...



Chantel has no idea that Cristian's feelings for her are quite the opposite of what she thinks. He's been pining from afar and close, and now that he has her in world, he's not letting her go. He'll burn down the world for her, kill anyone who touches her. But will he really hate her when her own secret is revealed?



I know I said this last time, but I have a new favorite Ashleigh guy! Cristian is nothing I expected, but yet everything and more. Yes, he's broody and rigid, dominant and bossy, and yet he's also ooey gooey for his gattina. And it's this juxtaposition that had me falling so hard for him, for this story. Chantel is this distrustful woman who still has a tender, if bruised, heart that is just waiting for someone to love her the way she deserves. I might have shed a few tears as she started out so wary, then slowly lowered her guard as Cristian's brand of Vitale love finally snuck past her walls. I know I also said before that Ashleigh has written some of my favorite ever Mafia/mob series (Boston Underworld: The Collection: Books 1-3!!) so it's no surprise that I love this series too. Cristian and Chantel's story is deliciously dark and intriguing and has me really impatient for more (Ares please!!)



ARC provided by the author for an honest review.

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[Rina | booksofthemuggleborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.75 stars!

**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**

Why do the Vitale brothers have such a massive pull?! We’re now three books in and the series is going from strength to strength. I don’t know how I’m managing to survive these stories, because I’m always ending up with a biggest, most coma-inducing book hangovers.

First we get a lion. Then a wolf. Now, we have the raven.

I didn’t think Cristian Vitale had a crazy side to him in comparison to his brothers, but here we are, with a seductive, slightly unhinged, deadly MMC who’s pretty much on par with Angelo and Romeo as far as dangerous, all-encompassing mobsters go.

I loved everything about this book. I loved the premise, and even more so how well the story was executed. Zavarelli has the Midas touch. Everything she writes turns to gold, and her writing is ambrosia. Food of the gods. It’s delectable, highly addictive stuff that I would never turn down. It served, and it served HARD!

Cristian’s and Chantel’s story is complex, on top of complex, on top of complex, and having read the first two books in the series, it only elevated the build-up between the two. Although this reads just as well as a standalone. If you’re new to the series, you can absolutely go into this book without having read any of the previous ones. But by the end, I’d bet your curiosity would be piqued by the other characters.

This world is so astronomically vivid and multi-layered, consisting of light and shade, a sense of familiarity, as well as plenty of unpredictability in between that kept me on the edge of my seat. I think the crossover between the mafia and the exclusive, secret society featured from another series of Zavarelli’s was excellently intertwined with one another and exhibited the vast possibilities of world-building.

I resonated with Chantel for some indescribable reason. I simply understood and sympathised with her character and traits. Her insecurities, her fears, constantly on guard, as well as her sense of being an outsider and/or never being accepted rang relatable and downright human. I immediately became invested in her life and how her story would progress alongside Cristian’s.

It’s very well paced. The dual POVs perfectly showcased both their emotions, their thought-process, and their overall actions and reactions to certain developments. If you like dark mafia romances shrouded in secrecy, hidden identities, palpating chemistry, and plenty of a push and pull dynamic, this may very well be the book for you.

With all dark mafia romance reads, expect adult content and mature themes. Chantel’s and Cristian’s story broaches on sensitive subject matters that some readers may find disturbing and/or triggering. It contains graphic violence, domestic abuse, coercion, trafficking, SA, stalking, threatening, kidnapping, and PTSD stemming from said events. I recommend reading the author’s full disclaimer before starting this book to ensure it’s for you. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

Whilst the spicy content is definitely a swoon-worthy element, it’s the in-depth, meaty storyline, the genuine relationships, and the history amongst the cast of characters that sets this book (the entire series, and Zavarelli’s overall writing style) apart from others in the same romance sub-genre. The details are key. Developing subplots and ongoing secondary storylines are well-thought out and wrapped-up depending on its course. This book leaves you in complete, blissful contentment, whilst at the same time, hyped to read the next in the series.

The surprising banter and little light-hearted comedic relief here and there were the cherry on top that turned the overall atmosphere into a comfort-read. I like the diverse personalities amongst the family and friend groups. Although there’s rivalry between two mob families present, based on the way they converse, they’re not complete mortal enemies as much they want you to believe, and therein lies the fun you didn’t think would exist between two feuding mafia empires. It’s entertaining as hell to witness play out and I’m already itching to see more.

Besides the romance, there are solid familial bonds and friendships that’ll warm your heart. The MCs, especially Chantel who needed a positive and stable support system found it in the most unexpected of places, and you can’t help but be happy for her. No one is more deserving of a HEA, and after having read this book, can’t picture anyone besides Cristian to make it happen.

All in all, it’s a must-read, and another exceptionally high quality storytelling. Zavarelli has created characters who deal with genuine, yet gut-wrenching matters that many can relate to. It has just the right amount of heart to counteract against the grittiness involved. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down, and I certainly couldn’t stop thinking about the characters long after I finished. Dark, mafia romance readers will undoubtedly devour this book!

🚨 Full review on my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS

My obsession with her had crept in silently like a slow-acting venom, poisoning my blood before I even knew I was in its grip.

What sort of crack does A Zavarelli put into her books, because I'm wholly addicted. And this series is my drug of choice. I thought I loved the first two books, but the way I inhaled this one, I think I clearly have a favorite now. Or so I say until the next book releases because the way I need Ares is probably illegal in at least 48 states. But I digress.

These Vitale brothers are just deliciously addictive. And Christian was definitely an intense secondary character with his quiet brooding in the previous two books. But as a main character? MY GOD. This man was everything.

I bet you’d make beautiful babies.” I reach up to touch him, letting my fingers roam over his face.
He releases a rough breath, and that smolder in his eyes turns into a blazing inferno. “There’s one way to find out.”

Chantel has been running from her feelings for this man (or any man) for years. She gave into temptation three years ago and it altered her brain chemistry so much that she felt she had no choice but to run from it and into the arms of a man who she had no danger of falling for. Unfortunately for her, that man also turned out to be a grade A d*ck. Luckily she cuts herself loose pretty quickly. Unluckily for her, she's right in Christian's sights now and she's right where he wants her. She though he hated her, but it couldn't be further from the truth.

I knew this would be addictive.” A beat of silence passes, and when he answers, his voice is rougher than it was a moment ago.
“Good. Don’t ever forget who your dealer is.”

The push and pull between these two was utterly delicious. I couldn't get enough of their chemistry and the tension that constantly brews between them. With every layer that gets peeled back, I just found myself more intrigued. You knew that Chantel is running from something, but the more that is revealed, the more interesting the story gets. The plot thickens as they say.

One taste of her was all it took for me to know what real hunger was. Now that I’ve been inside her, I’ll never allow anyone else to have her.

This book was the perfect blend of dark mafia, sinfully sizzling romance, and incredible characters in a way that only A Zavarelli can write.

You have a new title now, principessa.”
“What?” She moans as I start to kiss my way down her throat.
“Mine.”

And if these quotes don't have you running to pick this up, I don't know what will. If you're a lover of dark mafia romance with possessive, quiet, brooding and dirty talking MMC and an FMC that gives as good as she gets, welcome to your new addiction!

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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[Ez · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It was supposed to be simple. No names. No attachments. Clear rules. But nothing about my time with him was simple..." This series just keeps getting better - this was another winner for me, with Cristian becoming a firm favourite of mine. If you haven't read the first two books in this series, you can definitely read this one as a standalone. That being said, the others provide some good background to the Vitale family and friends and their world of power, money and privilege. Due to a past traumatic event, Chantel was forced to flee her former life and begin anew with a different identity. As her past, present (enter her douche of a soon-o-be ex) and a potential stalker put her life in danger, in swoops Cristian to take over and make sure she's safe. Her background raises more questions than answers and with loyalty being part of the Vitale family's DNA, trust runs thin on the ground. There was some great build up, heaps of chemistry, page-turning hot and heavy smexy times and a great mafia-based love story with a really satisfying ending.

Cristiano was a fabulous addition to the Empire of Kings series. He was deliciously dominant, dangerous, jealous and possessive with a solid 'touch her and die' outlook to Chantel. To others, Cristian was stoic, logical and reserved but became unravelled and violent around her (but never towards her). He'd resigned himself to an arranged marriage to help his family but once he had Chantel, he was all in.

I wasn't sure if I'd like Chantel as a MFC from the other two books as she seemed to have the potential to be an overly assertive, stereotypical 'sassy' lead, and these are always difficult to pull off. However, the author did a great job of balancing strength and confidence with vulnerability, making Chantel a realistic and likeable character. Her character development that built on her former trauma ticked all the boxes for me and I loved that she was self-aware as well as unapologetic for who she was (including her sexual needs/proclivities). She came with this gem of a quote that I had to highlight: "I think women get judged no matter what they do, so we should all just live our lives on our own terms and forget the rest." Say it louder for those in the back!

There are a few tropes here familiar to A. Zaverelli fans - IVI, the Society and Cosa Nostra tick off the secret society/powerful families box. There's also a bit of mask play, fantasy fulfillment (via Sanctum's sex club for those familiar with the series), arranged marriage, enemies to loves, rival families and a pretty heavy coating of other women drama set amongst the decadence and darkness that is IVI.

It was a terrific read and I was hooked from beginning. While Chantel and Cristian's story had parts that were predictable involving their history and present relationship, it was still really entertaining and I loved them as a couple. This book also gave me a much needed dose of Ares Stravos and holy Bi Jingos, I am absolutely fanging for his and Mari's story to come next.

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 "Aeterna!!!" stars***



"I'm the venom he can't survive.
I'm his kiss of death."

I love the Vitale brothers!!!! And I love their girls!!!
This series is on my top 5 favorite series of all time!!!
Each book is full of intension and wild moments...
Their passion is exploding and now I am frustrated between three brothers!!! How can you choose between Angelo, Romeo and Christian??? And dear God, there are two more of them!!! And Ares!!! We can't forget the cunning Greek God, Ares!!!
Okay!!! I am a lost cause, because I am enjoying these men way too much!!! LOL!!!
But let's focus on Christian and Chantel!!!

"You had every chance to escape me. But you didn't. Now you're mine."

Chantel is a girl hiding from her past... For the past six years, she had become a different person from what she used to be...
She is a burlesque dancer, full of mystery and passion!!! But behind that persona is hiding a girl full of insecurities who never stopped watching behind her back!!!
The only time, she allowed herself to be free and feel was behind masks with a stranger that could make her feel safe!!! But when it got real, she ran away....
Now, she is trying to get out of a relationship with Cristian Vitale's best friend!!!
Cristian who is giving her always the stink eye... the man who is getting out of a room when she is into it!!! This man hates her and she doesn't know why...

"Love is a liability, and I'd seen what it did yo my family. I had no desire to repeat that history."

Cristian Vitale is controlled, angry and a difficult man to please...
But he has a weakness in the form of a wild, gorgeous dancer!!!
He let her once slip away from under him, but he won't make the same mistake again...
It's his time to have her and no one and nothing can stop him!!!
Or her secrets can destroy everything???

"I hate you for doing this to me."
"I know. But I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere."

I loved Cristian and Chantel!!!!
I loved how this man was for this woman!!! I liked the way he was approaching her and how patient was with her!!! I liked everything about him!!! It was impossible to not love him fiercely!!!
And Chantel knew that and that was why she was running away from him!!! He was dangerous for her heart!!!
She was the lovely venom, but he was a dangerous wardlock who could chain her to him for the rest of their lives!!!
Yep, I am a goner for these two and their story and I can not wait to see what Ashleigh has in the store for us next in the series!!! I believe Ares and Mariella will be next and they will take a big space into our hearts and I am here for everything they will throw our way!!!

"I knew this would be addictive."
"Good. Don't ever forget who your dealer is."

**I received an ARc for the exchange of an honest review**

[Brownshugar · Rating 5 out of 5]

​Some characters take space in a story, and others completely consume it. Cristian Vitale belongs in the second category.
​Lovely Venom is the third book in A. Zavarelli's dark mafia romance series, Empire Of Kings. While it can be read as an interconnected standalone, I highly recommend reading the previous books first to fully immerse yourself in this secret society world and its complex rival families. Always check the trigger warnings before reading, as the themes deal with heavy past trauma. Thank you to A. Zavarelli for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I have loved the Vitale men throughout this series, but Cristian, Il Corvo, has stolen the top spot.
Chantel St. James is a burlesque dancer living a life defined by hyper vigilance and escape. Six years ago, she fled her old life. Three years ago, she tried to find solace in the arms of a masked stranger, only to run again when the emotional stakes grew too high. Now, her past is catching up with her, and the one man standing in her way is her best friend's brother, Cristian Vitale.
​Cristian is a man of few words, immense power, and intense obsession. Known as Il Corvo, he is always present in the shadows right when Chantel needs protection. When Chantel vanished three years ago, Cristian did not move on. He waited. He touched no one else, giving her the time she needed to process her pain. Now that trouble is following her, Cristian is done keeping his distance. Even with unbalanced trust, hidden identities, and lingering fear, he will burn down everything to keep her safe.
​The dynamic between Cristian and Chantel is deeply moving. Watching Chantel heal from severe trauma while learning to trust Cristian was executed with extreme care.
​Top Tier Tropes: You get forced proximity, found family, rival families, secret society politics, a hyper vigilant heroine, and an obsessive possessive hero who embodies the touch her and die trope.
Chantel is a resilient survivor who deserves the world, and Cristian's quiet loyalty makes him an unforgettable hero.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat with its romantic suspense, emotional core, and flawless character dynamics. I cannot wait for the next installment featuring Ares and Mariella. Ares has a massive amount of groveling to do, and I am ready for every second of it.

[Cindy Eckerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay… CRISTIAN VITALE 🐦‍⬛

I knew I was getting a dark mafia romance, but I was NOT prepared for the tension, mystery, obsession, and twists packed into Lovely Venom.
Chantel is a burlesque performer who has built her life around keeping her past hidden and never letting anyone get too close. Then there’s Cristian… intense, powerful, and calculating, a man who always seems to appear exactly when she needs him. Their chemistry is absolutely ELECTRIC. The push and pull between them had me turning pages like my life depended on it. Every stolen look, every confrontation, every moment of forced proximity… SCORCHING 🥵
But what really hooked me was the mystery surrounding Chantel’s past and the masked stranger from years ago. That storyline was EVERYTHING. And when certain pieces finally start falling into place… 👀 I loved watching everything slowly come together and seeing the truth revealed piece by piece.
Cristian is exactly the kind of dark romance hero you want in a mafia story. Intense, possessive, protective, and completely obsessed with the woman he loves. He doesn’t just want Chante, he believes she was always meant to be his destiny. But what I loved most is that beneath all that darkness, there’s a surprising tenderness in the way he protects her.
And Chantel… my heart broke for her. Her past is devastating and everything she survived 6 years ago, she’s so strong and brave for attempting to build a normal life when her fears and her own mind constantly tell her to hide and run. I loved seeing her go from simply surviving to finally allowing herself to live, love, and be part of something real.
So yeah this book has it all… The danger, mafia politics, revenge, found family, and twists that kept me completely invested. And the chemistry? ooooof…that alone could’ve carried me through the entire book because these two are FIRE 🔥
I also loved seeing the Vitale family and getting those little glimpses of what’s to come because that ending?? 👀
A. Zavarelli really said, “Let’s add to your emotional turmoil… sit tight and wait for the next book” 😂
Overall a 10/10 an emotional, suspenseful, addictive, and ridiculously spicy book!
I need Ares and Mariela’s story IMMEDIATELY👏