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The Corrupt Empire #3
Ruthless Monarch
From USA Today bestselling author Ava Harrison comes a gritty, twisted standalone romance.
Matteo Amante.
Dangerous. Deadly. And most of all, devastating.
He’s the king of the city.
Running the mafia and ruling the East Coast.
He’s at war with his cousin, and I am the casualty.
There is nothing Matteo won’t do to win.
He’ll burn everything down to the ground, my hopes and dreams included.
He’s no hero.
He’s the handsome devil who will probably kill me in the end.
Falling in love with the enemy can destroy me, especially when he is my husband . . .
Matteo Amante.
Dangerous. Deadly. And most of all, devastating.
He’s the king of the city.
Running the mafia and ruling the East Coast.
He’s at war with his cousin, and I am the casualty.
There is nothing Matteo won’t do to win.
He’ll burn everything down to the ground, my hopes and dreams included.
He’s no hero.
He’s the handsome devil who will probably kill me in the end.
Falling in love with the enemy can destroy me, especially when he is my husband . . .
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
2437 people are currently reading
4004 people want to read
About the author
Ava Harrison
43 books3,675 followersAva Harrison is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 437 reviews
April 1, 2021
Mafia romance is one of those genres that needs to be executed well, or it unravels quickly. This didn't waste any time unraveling. The antihero is a domineering jerk who demands marriage from a stranger, doesn't agree to exclusivity, and doesn't take murder (of his wife) off the table... yet our weak heroine is still thinking about his kissable lips and getting herself worked up on their wedding day. Much of the book follows along the same lines, with the heroine falling into bed (and in love) with very little effort required of the antihero. Add in the fact that there is SO MUCH internalization that I felt like I was being mansplained to - but I also didn't completely understand the storyline - and this was a rough read for me.
The story follows Matteo, a mafia boss whose enemies have been making trouble. When he discovers that his estranged cousin is set to force a bride into marriage, Matteo decides to take her for himself instead. Viviana is a complete stranger, but she's the perfect woman to use to his advantage - and if she warms his bed or produces an heir in the meantime, even better. Though Viviana has no interest in marrying either man, Matteo seems like the lesser of two evils. And as they begin their marriage, Viviana finds herself falling for the softer side of the man she lives with, even if there is still plenty of bad inside him.
If I hadn't enjoyed several books from this author in the past, there's no question that this would've been a DNF for me. I had a lot of trouble respecting Viviana; these mafia romances only feel like ROMANCES when the dynamic works, and this one did not. She seemed to fall for Matteo at the first sign of sweetness, and then it was just a whole lot of steam after that. And Matteo? Did something there was no coming back from, yet the grovel is nonexistent. I might've considered a 3-star rating up until that point, but that's what cemented this rating for me. It's also partially due to the writing itself, which had a lot of unnecessary explanations to the reader, though there were still some parts of the plot that I didn't understand. Ultimately, this just isn't the author's strongest work. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this mafia romance.
The story follows Matteo, a mafia boss whose enemies have been making trouble. When he discovers that his estranged cousin is set to force a bride into marriage, Matteo decides to take her for himself instead. Viviana is a complete stranger, but she's the perfect woman to use to his advantage - and if she warms his bed or produces an heir in the meantime, even better. Though Viviana has no interest in marrying either man, Matteo seems like the lesser of two evils. And as they begin their marriage, Viviana finds herself falling for the softer side of the man she lives with, even if there is still plenty of bad inside him.
If I hadn't enjoyed several books from this author in the past, there's no question that this would've been a DNF for me. I had a lot of trouble respecting Viviana; these mafia romances only feel like ROMANCES when the dynamic works, and this one did not. She seemed to fall for Matteo at the first sign of sweetness, and then it was just a whole lot of steam after that. And Matteo? Did something there was no coming back from, yet the grovel is nonexistent. I might've considered a 3-star rating up until that point, but that's what cemented this rating for me. It's also partially due to the writing itself, which had a lot of unnecessary explanations to the reader, though there were still some parts of the plot that I didn't understand. Ultimately, this just isn't the author's strongest work. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this mafia romance.
April 8, 2021
too boring + too predictable— can authors come up with something else?
March 31, 2021
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review -
This is my first book by Ava Harrison and I'm wondering why!! I am a sucker for mafia romances and this one checked all the boxes for me! I was enthralled by the writing. The story had mysterious twists and turns that hooked me.
Matteo was closed off from all feelings. He was ruthless and domineering. It had to be that was as the dangerous mob boss he is. Showing any weakness is never an option... or love. If he does, it could be used against him.
Viviana was a bright young woman and was just starting to live her life on her terms. It had never truly been hers though. She has always been controlled by her father. He allowed her to what could help himself in the long run.
Matteo offers her a deal that would get her out from under her father's harsh thumb. She knows it's what's best so goes against her father's wishes. It's about time she looks out for herself. Is Matteo really on her side or she is just a pawn in his game as well?
The two together were explosive! They brought out the best (and worse) in each other. Viviana held her ground with him and met him swing for swing. I fell in love with Matteo little by little the more I read. There was so much more to him than just being a mob boss.
Will her deal with Matteo be her downfall... or his?
This is my first book by Ava Harrison and I'm wondering why!! I am a sucker for mafia romances and this one checked all the boxes for me! I was enthralled by the writing. The story had mysterious twists and turns that hooked me.
Matteo was closed off from all feelings. He was ruthless and domineering. It had to be that was as the dangerous mob boss he is. Showing any weakness is never an option... or love. If he does, it could be used against him.
Viviana was a bright young woman and was just starting to live her life on her terms. It had never truly been hers though. She has always been controlled by her father. He allowed her to what could help himself in the long run.
Matteo offers her a deal that would get her out from under her father's harsh thumb. She knows it's what's best so goes against her father's wishes. It's about time she looks out for herself. Is Matteo really on her side or she is just a pawn in his game as well?
The two together were explosive! They brought out the best (and worse) in each other. Viviana held her ground with him and met him swing for swing. I fell in love with Matteo little by little the more I read. There was so much more to him than just being a mob boss.
Will her deal with Matteo be her downfall... or his?
December 15, 2022
3,5 ⭐️
İlk kitaptan daha iyiydi en azından ama yine yetersiz kaldı
İlk kitaptan daha iyiydi en azından ama yine yetersiz kaldı
February 15, 2025
The plot was ok but the writing unfortunately not. The dialogues were cheesy, the connection between them flat and there was an awkward feeling throughout. Combining some scenes that had me like wth! Or some inconsistencies. Normally I'm willing to get past through these when the story is good but in this case... It's a shame because it looked really promising.
April 4, 2021
***AVAILABLE NOW***
5 STARS
Ruthless Monarch is one of my favorite mafia standalones. It had an antihero who was ruthless and cunning, a heroine willing to challenge him, and a plot that was fascinating from beginning to end.
Matteo is everything a mafia leader should be. He was ruthless, cunning, and dangerous. His savagery was enticing and alluring, and I absolutely fell in love with his character. He is my favorite Ava hero. While Matteo was one of the best parts of the story for me, Viviana had her own charm. I did enjoy the aspect of her character line that showed her working towards her own independence.
The story itself is captivating - suspense, plot twists, and angst. Their journey is not just about them individually or as a couple, but about a mafia leader trying to maintain control under threats to his empire.
It was riveting.
This story is one of my favorite Ava books. It had everything I love in romance, and I am comole felt
in love with it all.
ARC review
5 STARS
Ruthless Monarch is one of my favorite mafia standalones. It had an antihero who was ruthless and cunning, a heroine willing to challenge him, and a plot that was fascinating from beginning to end.
Matteo is everything a mafia leader should be. He was ruthless, cunning, and dangerous. His savagery was enticing and alluring, and I absolutely fell in love with his character. He is my favorite Ava hero. While Matteo was one of the best parts of the story for me, Viviana had her own charm. I did enjoy the aspect of her character line that showed her working towards her own independence.
The story itself is captivating - suspense, plot twists, and angst. Their journey is not just about them individually or as a couple, but about a mafia leader trying to maintain control under threats to his empire.
It was riveting.
This story is one of my favorite Ava books. It had everything I love in romance, and I am comole felt
in love with it all.
ARC review
March 11, 2022
I'm beginning to see the pattern here...lol
This is a third book I've read in consistency with the word "ruthless" in its title....
Sure, there's some truth in that, considering the H in this book, but then, there was smth off, as well...
as in the description and portrayal of the ruthless crime lord, you think/believe him to be very calculative and meticulous, meaning he would actually, cover all his bases, and plan and shit, and reconsider thing if they went south...ah, well, he acted just the opposite in the most crucial of moments and it was just lame...
But I guess, the story needed a twist, even though it was a predictable one to have, it did set the tone downhill from there on, for me...
But other than that, it was an okay read!
This is a third book I've read in consistency with the word "ruthless" in its title....
Sure, there's some truth in that, considering the H in this book, but then, there was smth off, as well...
as in the description and portrayal of the ruthless crime lord, you think/believe him to be very calculative and meticulous, meaning he would actually, cover all his bases, and plan and shit, and reconsider thing if they went south...ah, well, he acted just the opposite in the most crucial of moments and it was just lame...
But I guess, the story needed a twist, even though it was a predictable one to have, it did set the tone downhill from there on, for me...
But other than that, it was an okay read!
April 5, 2021
US / WW
Will a marriage of convenience for Viviana the governor's daughter and Matteo the mob boss get them what they want, or even more when actual feelings start developing? Feelings neither expected, and certainly one of them doesn't seem to want.
Matteo wants control of his territory, so when he hears his cousin is planning on seizing even more power by marrying the governor's daughter, he takes it upon himself to marry her himself. But the question for Viviana is, is Matteo really the lesser of two evils? Or is he just as bad or even worse, than that sleazy cousin? Viviana has always wanted to be her own person but has always been controlled by her father. So to seize some of her own power and control of her life, she decides to marry Matteo. Will it stay a marriage in name only or will the cold, ruthless man become her everything?
Matteo was definitely a ruthless king. Cold and menacing and unfeeling. Until Viviana came into his life. But even then, he didn't really change, just fell, first in lust, then much later, in love. I kinda wanted better for Viviana, I'll be honest, because he wasn't that good to her for the longest time. I do appreciate that he eventually fell hard for her, and I thought she was the star of her own story. Like any good Mafia romance, Ruthless Monarch is suspenseful, steamy, and the alpha has his heart thawed by the love of a great woman.
ARC via author for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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April 8, 2021Sometimes it is important to recognize why you are drawn to a book. Yes, this author is strong and has many bestsellers under her belt. But I want to give series credit to what can make or break a book, The Cover.
Yup, This cover gives me everything and Hang Lee did it. Hang Lee has a way of bringing forward what an author wants more times than not and I felt it worth a moment to bring it to light. So five stars for Hang Lee.
March 5, 2021-UPDATE
So I Am A Little Behind...
But To Make It Up To You...
This Cover Will Be Everything...
You Will Not Have To Wait Too Long...
April 5th Will Be The Day...
We Can All Meet The...
Ruthless Monarch-April 5, 2021
Ruthless Monarch
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 21, 2021
A Woman Looks...
Into The Eyes That Are Eating Her Up...
A Man Who Has Held Her In Place...
Just By Holding Her Gaze...
She Makes The Mistake Of Her Life...
By Asking His Name...
He Smirks And Says...
"I'm Happy You Asked"...
He Announces His Name...
"I'm Matteo Amante"...
She Stutters His Name Back At Him...
Understanding The Fear...
Feeling The Shock...
His Response Is A Casual...
"I See My Name Precedes Me"...
What Also Precedes Him Is The Knowledge...
He Is One Of NYC's Most Eligible Bachelors's...
What Also Is Known...
He Is Also The Most Deadly...
R M-Spring 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Yup, This cover gives me everything and Hang Lee did it. Hang Lee has a way of bringing forward what an author wants more times than not and I felt it worth a moment to bring it to light. So five stars for Hang Lee.
March 5, 2021-UPDATE
So I Am A Little Behind...
But To Make It Up To You...
This Cover Will Be Everything...
You Will Not Have To Wait Too Long...
April 5th Will Be The Day...
We Can All Meet The...
Ruthless Monarch-April 5, 2021
Ruthless Monarchhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 21, 2021
A Woman Looks...
Into The Eyes That Are Eating Her Up...
A Man Who Has Held Her In Place...
Just By Holding Her Gaze...
She Makes The Mistake Of Her Life...
By Asking His Name...
He Smirks And Says...
"I'm Happy You Asked"...
He Announces His Name...
"I'm Matteo Amante"...
She Stutters His Name Back At Him...
Understanding The Fear...
Feeling The Shock...
His Response Is A Casual...
"I See My Name Precedes Me"...
What Also Precedes Him Is The Knowledge...
He Is One Of NYC's Most Eligible Bachelors's...
What Also Is Known...
He Is Also The Most Deadly...
R M-Spring 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 2, 2021
5⭐
Ava Harrison has done it again. Have you had a book that you knew it was going to end so you tried to pause as many times as possible because you didn’t want it to end? This happened to me with Ruthless Monarch. First of all, I don’t read many mafia romances, but I’m obsessed with marriage of convenience/arranged marriage, so I took a shot knowing that Mrs Harrison has never let me down with her words.
This is a spoiler free review as in the book is not out yet. And it will ruin all the fun! Jokes aside, as this is a mafia romance it is also triggering so be aware of it.
Matteo is aboss mob and after his father passed away, he’s in charge but there is someone who wants to dethrone him… and it’s not going to back out.
As all dark heroes, Matteo is a complicated man, cold, ruthless, manipulative. That’s why he marries Viviana. He has a plan. But Viviana is not naïve, after all she’s seen. I really loved their relationship; it was natural, and we get to see not just the steamy parts (🥵) but also the sweet ones. They obviously have some trust issues and it’s pretty normal considering that her father hates Matteo’s guts for some reasons (that I’m not going to spoil lol) and Viviana has some secrets of her own. This is a 4.5 star read but Iwant to add another half a star for the microscopic cameos. I screamed at them. Sue me. Meanwhile, just read Ruthless Monarch when it comes out April 5th!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review
Ava Harrison has done it again. Have you had a book that you knew it was going to end so you tried to pause as many times as possible because you didn’t want it to end? This happened to me with Ruthless Monarch. First of all, I don’t read many mafia romances, but I’m obsessed with marriage of convenience/arranged marriage, so I took a shot knowing that Mrs Harrison has never let me down with her words.
This is a spoiler free review as in the book is not out yet. And it will ruin all the fun! Jokes aside, as this is a mafia romance it is also triggering so be aware of it.
Matteo is aboss mob and after his father passed away, he’s in charge but there is someone who wants to dethrone him… and it’s not going to back out.
As all dark heroes, Matteo is a complicated man, cold, ruthless, manipulative. That’s why he marries Viviana. He has a plan. But Viviana is not naïve, after all she’s seen. I really loved their relationship; it was natural, and we get to see not just the steamy parts (🥵) but also the sweet ones. They obviously have some trust issues and it’s pretty normal considering that her father hates Matteo’s guts for some reasons (that I’m not going to spoil lol) and Viviana has some secrets of her own. This is a 4.5 star read but Iwant to add another half a star for the microscopic cameos. I screamed at them. Sue me. Meanwhile, just read Ruthless Monarch when it comes out April 5th!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review
April 11, 2021
I listened to the audio. Vanessa Edwin and SebYo did a great job. Perfectly cast.
This is a definitely an enemies to lovers, to enemies to lovers to enemies.
Keep up!
I haven't read a mafia romance in quite a while, but I want to get this audio on release day.
Viviana was trapped, but had to think fast about what she should do. She picked Matteo. He actually picked her and she accepted. How could this work out? Viviana seemed genuine and Matteo wasn't all bad. Matteo wouldn't dare admit that he had feelings for Viviana, would he?
Was Viviana out to betray him?
I had to skip over a couple of the violent scenes.
Viviana's father uses her as a pawn in a power play against his enemies, including Matteo.
Viviana and Matteo get married, but that doesn't exactly get them an HEA-yet.
Viviana and Matteo are attracted to each other but don't admit it, even after they marry.
Even in his thoughts, Matteo says that she "gets under his skin".
The more that I listened, the more I wanted to find out what would happen.
I really enjoyed the the 2nd half, which was a little faster pace.
3.75 - 4.0 stars!
This is a definitely an enemies to lovers, to enemies to lovers to enemies.
Keep up!
I haven't read a mafia romance in quite a while, but I want to get this audio on release day.
Viviana was trapped, but had to think fast about what she should do. She picked Matteo. He actually picked her and she accepted. How could this work out? Viviana seemed genuine and Matteo wasn't all bad. Matteo wouldn't dare admit that he had feelings for Viviana, would he?
Was Viviana out to betray him?
I had to skip over a couple of the violent scenes.
Viviana's father uses her as a pawn in a power play against his enemies, including Matteo.
Viviana and Matteo get married, but that doesn't exactly get them an HEA-yet.
Viviana and Matteo are attracted to each other but don't admit it, even after they marry.
Even in his thoughts, Matteo says that she "gets under his skin".
The more that I listened, the more I wanted to find out what would happen.
I really enjoyed the the 2nd half, which was a little faster pace.
3.75 - 4.0 stars!
May 20, 2024
A great premise poorly executed, this was rather a let down.
I love mafia romance, it's my favourite, but this genre walks a fine line between great and not great and Ruthless Monarch falls into the latter. The characters felt one dimensional, the heroine was such a doormat and the zero an absolute manipulative arsehole who pulled a move towards the end that could never be forgiven. Yet forgive him she did, without so much as a hint of a grovel.
The majority of the book was so slow and drawn out that when the "secrets" came out they were so glossed over, they really didn't have much of an impact at all. And don't even get me started on the overworked evil parent trope! There needs to be a reason for this vileness for it to be believable which there wasn't here.
I love mafia romance, it's my favourite, but this genre walks a fine line between great and not great and Ruthless Monarch falls into the latter. The characters felt one dimensional, the heroine was such a doormat and the zero an absolute manipulative arsehole who pulled a move towards the end that could never be forgiven. Yet forgive him she did, without so much as a hint of a grovel.
The majority of the book was so slow and drawn out that when the "secrets" came out they were so glossed over, they really didn't have much of an impact at all. And don't even get me started on the overworked evil parent trope! There needs to be a reason for this vileness for it to be believable which there wasn't here.
April 4, 2021
I’ve read and loved many Ava Harrison stories- and I LIVE for mafia romance. And this book had a lot going for it. We have the ruthless monarch who is truly ruthless- a domineering, alpha, dark and dangerous mob boss who uses his power to capture and control our heroine in an arranged marriage. We have secrets, half-truths, and a compelling mysterious, all that stand between these two. And have the quintessential mafia heroine- a young, sweet girl that’s jumping from one gilded cage to another, a pawn in the machinations of formidable men. All things I love in mafia romance.
But, unfortunately, this isn’t my favorite Ava story, and it’s hard to review because while I loved the last 20%, the first 60% I struggled with a bit. Of course, that is just me- I know that many people will absolutely adore this story- and Ava gives us lots of mafia goodness to enjoy. For me though, I just didn’t connect with it. While I like my mafia men mysterious, emotionally vaulted, and ruthless, Matteo was just a bit too cold and distant for me. I never really felt any emotional connection to him, nor felt any sort of chemistry- emotional or physical- with our heroine. The premise was a great one- a take on the trope that I always adore- but from there it just felt static- the plot, the secrets, the character development, at least for the first 60% or so. The back half of the book I enjoyed much more- but I still didn’t feel much emotional development of either character. And while I found the last quarter of the book to be greatly entertaining and way more emotionally complex, it did feel like the switch was flipped without a lot of groundwork. Matteo goes from cold to apologetic and in love in the drop of the hat- except for he never really does any meaningful grovelling or apologizing, and I’m not sure I truly believe him- he never really proves it to me. And, while I’m never one to dislike a “softer” more pliable heroine, even I struggled with how quickly and easily Viviana forgave him. So while Matteo’s character growth felt a bit choppy, I didn’t really get much growth from her at all. The writing voice also wasn’t my favorite- which hasn’t been my Ava experience before. Viviana’s (and to a certain extent Matteo’s) non-dialogue POV read a bit like journal entries- which may have contributed to me feeling the disconnect from the characters and them to each other.
If you love mafia, give this one a go. I still enjoyed many aspects of this story and will continue to read more Ava works- even if this one wasn’t my favorite from her.
Merged review:
I’ve read and loved many Ava Harrison stories- and I LIVE for mafia romance. And this book had a lot going for it. We have the ruthless monarch who is truly ruthless- a domineering, alpha, dark and dangerous mob boss who uses his power to capture and control our heroine in an arranged marriage. We have secrets, half-truths, and a compelling mysterious, all that stand between these two. And have the quintessential mafia heroine- a young, sweet girl that’s jumping from one gilded cage to another, a pawn in the machinations of formidable men. All things I love in mafia romance.
But, unfortunately, this isn’t my favorite Ava story, and it’s hard to review because while I loved the last 20%, the first 60% I struggled with a bit. Of course, that is just me- I know that many people will absolutely adore this story- and Ava gives us lots of mafia goodness to enjoy. For me though, I just didn’t connect with it. While I like my mafia men mysterious, emotionally vaulted, and ruthless, Matteo was just a bit too cold and distant for me. I never really felt any emotional connection to him, nor felt any sort of chemistry- emotional or physical- with our heroine. The premise was a great one- a take on the trope that I always adore- but from there it just felt static- the plot, the secrets, the character development, at least for the first 60% or so. The back half of the book I enjoyed much more- but I still didn’t feel much emotional development of either character. And while I found the last quarter of the book to be greatly entertaining and way more emotionally complex, it did feel like the switch was flipped without a lot of groundwork. Matteo goes from cold to apologetic and in love in the drop of the hat- except for he never really does any meaningful grovelling or apologizing, and I’m not sure I truly believe him- he never really proves it to me. And, while I’m never one to dislike a “softer” more pliable heroine, even I struggled with how quickly and easily Viviana forgave him. So while Matteo’s character growth felt a bit choppy, I didn’t really get much growth from her at all. The writing voice also wasn’t my favorite- which hasn’t been my Ava experience before. Viviana’s (and to a certain extent Matteo’s) non-dialogue POV read a bit like journal entries- which may have contributed to me feeling the disconnect from the characters and them to each other.
If you love mafia, give this one a go. I still enjoyed many aspects of this story and will continue to read more Ava works- even if this one wasn’t my favorite from her.
But, unfortunately, this isn’t my favorite Ava story, and it’s hard to review because while I loved the last 20%, the first 60% I struggled with a bit. Of course, that is just me- I know that many people will absolutely adore this story- and Ava gives us lots of mafia goodness to enjoy. For me though, I just didn’t connect with it. While I like my mafia men mysterious, emotionally vaulted, and ruthless, Matteo was just a bit too cold and distant for me. I never really felt any emotional connection to him, nor felt any sort of chemistry- emotional or physical- with our heroine. The premise was a great one- a take on the trope that I always adore- but from there it just felt static- the plot, the secrets, the character development, at least for the first 60% or so. The back half of the book I enjoyed much more- but I still didn’t feel much emotional development of either character. And while I found the last quarter of the book to be greatly entertaining and way more emotionally complex, it did feel like the switch was flipped without a lot of groundwork. Matteo goes from cold to apologetic and in love in the drop of the hat- except for he never really does any meaningful grovelling or apologizing, and I’m not sure I truly believe him- he never really proves it to me. And, while I’m never one to dislike a “softer” more pliable heroine, even I struggled with how quickly and easily Viviana forgave him. So while Matteo’s character growth felt a bit choppy, I didn’t really get much growth from her at all. The writing voice also wasn’t my favorite- which hasn’t been my Ava experience before. Viviana’s (and to a certain extent Matteo’s) non-dialogue POV read a bit like journal entries- which may have contributed to me feeling the disconnect from the characters and them to each other.
If you love mafia, give this one a go. I still enjoyed many aspects of this story and will continue to read more Ava works- even if this one wasn’t my favorite from her.
Merged review:
I’ve read and loved many Ava Harrison stories- and I LIVE for mafia romance. And this book had a lot going for it. We have the ruthless monarch who is truly ruthless- a domineering, alpha, dark and dangerous mob boss who uses his power to capture and control our heroine in an arranged marriage. We have secrets, half-truths, and a compelling mysterious, all that stand between these two. And have the quintessential mafia heroine- a young, sweet girl that’s jumping from one gilded cage to another, a pawn in the machinations of formidable men. All things I love in mafia romance.
But, unfortunately, this isn’t my favorite Ava story, and it’s hard to review because while I loved the last 20%, the first 60% I struggled with a bit. Of course, that is just me- I know that many people will absolutely adore this story- and Ava gives us lots of mafia goodness to enjoy. For me though, I just didn’t connect with it. While I like my mafia men mysterious, emotionally vaulted, and ruthless, Matteo was just a bit too cold and distant for me. I never really felt any emotional connection to him, nor felt any sort of chemistry- emotional or physical- with our heroine. The premise was a great one- a take on the trope that I always adore- but from there it just felt static- the plot, the secrets, the character development, at least for the first 60% or so. The back half of the book I enjoyed much more- but I still didn’t feel much emotional development of either character. And while I found the last quarter of the book to be greatly entertaining and way more emotionally complex, it did feel like the switch was flipped without a lot of groundwork. Matteo goes from cold to apologetic and in love in the drop of the hat- except for he never really does any meaningful grovelling or apologizing, and I’m not sure I truly believe him- he never really proves it to me. And, while I’m never one to dislike a “softer” more pliable heroine, even I struggled with how quickly and easily Viviana forgave him. So while Matteo’s character growth felt a bit choppy, I didn’t really get much growth from her at all. The writing voice also wasn’t my favorite- which hasn’t been my Ava experience before. Viviana’s (and to a certain extent Matteo’s) non-dialogue POV read a bit like journal entries- which may have contributed to me feeling the disconnect from the characters and them to each other.
If you love mafia, give this one a go. I still enjoyed many aspects of this story and will continue to read more Ava works- even if this one wasn’t my favorite from her.
April 16, 2021
Ruthless Monarch is an exciting story that captivates you from the start. Viviana is the daughter of the New Jersey’s governor who seeks to betrothed her with Salvatore Amante, a mobster, in order to seek an alliance that gives her power and safety. Matteo Amante, Salvatore's cousin, proposes an easy way out for Viviana: to marry him. He offers her everything: safety, well-being and a life full of luxury, but warns her that he will never come to love her. In this story the lines of politics and the mafia intersect, the lust for power blinds the human side, secrets and intrigues are present, and loyalties are compromised.
Viviana is a young woman who lives under the oppression of her father. She has never felt close to him and their opinions are very different. She is authentic, intelligent, somewhat dreamy but also aware of the world she lives in and what her arranged marriage entails. Despite this, she cannot help falling in love with Matteo. God! That man! He is very clear about his duties and responsibilities, he is loyal to his beliefs, with his feet on the ground and as a mafia man he is cruel and ruthless when he has to be, however he is someone just (unlike his staunch enemy: his cousin Salvatore). As we get to know Matteo, we see facets of him that we could never imagine. He can be romantic, affectionate, and also quite dominant and sensual. He is everything. Viviana and Matteo are fire together and I loved the evolution in their relationship. There is action, suspense, steamy romance.
Ruthless Monarch is out now and you can't miss it.
4.5⭐️
***𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰***
Viviana is a young woman who lives under the oppression of her father. She has never felt close to him and their opinions are very different. She is authentic, intelligent, somewhat dreamy but also aware of the world she lives in and what her arranged marriage entails. Despite this, she cannot help falling in love with Matteo. God! That man! He is very clear about his duties and responsibilities, he is loyal to his beliefs, with his feet on the ground and as a mafia man he is cruel and ruthless when he has to be, however he is someone just (unlike his staunch enemy: his cousin Salvatore). As we get to know Matteo, we see facets of him that we could never imagine. He can be romantic, affectionate, and also quite dominant and sensual. He is everything. Viviana and Matteo are fire together and I loved the evolution in their relationship. There is action, suspense, steamy romance.
Ruthless Monarch is out now and you can't miss it.
4.5⭐️
***𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰***
May 23, 2021
Book review: "Ruthless Monarch" by Ava Harrison. 2.5*
#mafia #irredeemable
Matteo and Viviana have a marriage of convenience. Matteo is a young Don, and he has a few people that he can consider trustworthy, and his wife is one of them. Their relationship is developing fast, and they love each other.
Viviana's father asks her to commit treason against her husband, in order to keep her secret safe. . *we find out about the secret, later*She tells her husband about it, so Matteo now knows that she is good for him. When something happens, and all the evidence point against Viviana, Matteo does not believe her when she says that she did not betray him. He literally points a gun to her head, playing Russian roulette, and he pulls the trigger. She is lucky, so she does not die. After that, he leaves her on her father's door, and she is taken by another enemy because that enemy knows that Matteo is still in love with her, so he wants to trap him when he is coming after Viviana.
Matteo takes Viviana back, Viviana finds out that her secret was actually a lie, and other things happen.
The ending is abrupt and stupid and this is why this is for me a 2.5* book, not a 3.5* one. Matteo did something awful and he did not grove enough. Actually, after that, I find him irredeemable.
#mafia #irredeemable
Matteo and Viviana have a marriage of convenience. Matteo is a young Don, and he has a few people that he can consider trustworthy, and his wife is one of them. Their relationship is developing fast, and they love each other.
Viviana's father asks her to commit treason against her husband, in order to keep her secret safe. . *we find out about the secret, later*She tells her husband about it, so Matteo now knows that she is good for him. When something happens, and all the evidence point against Viviana, Matteo does not believe her when she says that she did not betray him. He literally points a gun to her head, playing Russian roulette, and he pulls the trigger. She is lucky, so she does not die. After that, he leaves her on her father's door, and she is taken by another enemy because that enemy knows that Matteo is still in love with her, so he wants to trap him when he is coming after Viviana.
Matteo takes Viviana back, Viviana finds out that her secret was actually a lie, and other things happen.
The ending is abrupt and stupid and this is why this is for me a 2.5* book, not a 3.5* one. Matteo did something awful and he did not grove enough. Actually, after that, I find him irredeemable.
March 30, 2021
There is nothing more spectacular than when an author is on top of her game and gives you more than you could ever hope for in a book. Ruthless Monarch from Ava Harrison is just that type of moment - absolute perfection from cover to cover.
I was lucky enough to be a Beta Reader for this book, and the amount of excitement I had page after page could not be contained. There were several moments where not only did I write back to Ms. Harrison with my thoughts, but I put my passionate pleas onto Twitter for Book Friends to make sure to grab this book when it became available.
Mateo is the alpha anti-hero that you crave to find in Suspense Romance and what a spectacular mystery this becomes as he goes from enemy to lover of our heroine. I cannot wait to hear Sebastian York bring life to Mateo against Vanessa Edwin's leading role with her voice giving all the fear and anxieties a new level of anticipation.
No words can be spoken about the details of this book without becoming a spoiler - expect to be completely taken for a ride that leaves you on the edge of your seat from the first to last pages.
I was lucky enough to be a Beta Reader for this book, and the amount of excitement I had page after page could not be contained. There were several moments where not only did I write back to Ms. Harrison with my thoughts, but I put my passionate pleas onto Twitter for Book Friends to make sure to grab this book when it became available.
Mateo is the alpha anti-hero that you crave to find in Suspense Romance and what a spectacular mystery this becomes as he goes from enemy to lover of our heroine. I cannot wait to hear Sebastian York bring life to Mateo against Vanessa Edwin's leading role with her voice giving all the fear and anxieties a new level of anticipation.
No words can be spoken about the details of this book without becoming a spoiler - expect to be completely taken for a ride that leaves you on the edge of your seat from the first to last pages.
January 30, 2023
After enjoying Ava Harrison’s Tarnished Empire, I was left curious about many of the characters introduced throughout the story. When I realised Ruthless Monarch was telling one of those stories, I was happy to dive in.
As eager as I was to read Ruthless Monarch, my feelings toward the book ended up being mixed. It certainly had me curious throughout, but it never quite delivered in the way I had hoped it would. The twists and turns were all clear from early in the book and none of them shocked me. Add in the fact the reveals were all crammed in at the end of the book after it moved very slowly at the start, and I felt like I was reading two different books.
I’m sure I’ll be in the minority with this one, but it was only okay instead of the amazing book I’d expected to follow Tarnished Empire.
As eager as I was to read Ruthless Monarch, my feelings toward the book ended up being mixed. It certainly had me curious throughout, but it never quite delivered in the way I had hoped it would. The twists and turns were all clear from early in the book and none of them shocked me. Add in the fact the reveals were all crammed in at the end of the book after it moved very slowly at the start, and I felt like I was reading two different books.
I’m sure I’ll be in the minority with this one, but it was only okay instead of the amazing book I’d expected to follow Tarnished Empire.
April 6, 2021
The only cute thing about this book is the name of the male protagonist, Matteo, and the only exciting thing was the girl taking a bullet for him.
Enemies to lovers forced marriage mafia kinda trope. If you include a couple of words in Italian, it is not considered a mafia book. Cliché after another fucking cliché after another fucking cliché... No! I was laughing at every single cliché related thing, among other things in the book. I'm not a fan of long descriptions in books, but I was begging for a simple description here, for it had none. All things considered, poor writing and execution.
Enemies to lovers forced marriage mafia kinda trope. If you include a couple of words in Italian, it is not considered a mafia book. Cliché after another fucking cliché after another fucking cliché... No! I was laughing at every single cliché related thing, among other things in the book. I'm not a fan of long descriptions in books, but I was begging for a simple description here, for it had none. All things considered, poor writing and execution.
April 14, 2021
Really?
2.5 ⭐️
I’m truly baffled by all the five star reviews. Maybe I have read much better books or just have a higher standard.
This story had loads of potential and then just fell flat.
Vivian and her constant inner monologue of “I have a secret, need to protect my friends” became very boring. The fact almost everyone in her life betrayed her and she forgave them did not lift her up. She was a one note character at best.
And Matteo, he comes across as an arrogant a**, not some ruthless sexy mob boss. I did not feel any connection or steam from these two or their love scenes. And then feeling betrayed or not, he commits an unforgivable sin. There is seriously no redemption in my mind after that. I only finished the story to finally learn what this “secret” was. I had guessed three of the four pieces by the time it was all revealed.
I’ve read other stories by this author that were much more riveting and frankly significantly better.
2.5 ⭐️
I’m truly baffled by all the five star reviews. Maybe I have read much better books or just have a higher standard.
This story had loads of potential and then just fell flat.
Vivian and her constant inner monologue of “I have a secret, need to protect my friends” became very boring. The fact almost everyone in her life betrayed her and she forgave them did not lift her up. She was a one note character at best.
And Matteo, he comes across as an arrogant a**, not some ruthless sexy mob boss. I did not feel any connection or steam from these two or their love scenes. And then feeling betrayed or not, he commits an unforgivable sin. There is seriously no redemption in my mind after that. I only finished the story to finally learn what this “secret” was. I had guessed three of the four pieces by the time it was all revealed.
I’ve read other stories by this author that were much more riveting and frankly significantly better.
March 30, 2021
ARC Review
Amazing and marvellous book.
Matteo is a mob boss. His cousin wants to gain power in Matteo’s area by cooperating with a governor and marrying his daughter, Viviana. Matteo, then in order to counterplot, takes Viviana and she will become his wife. Even though she can’t believe what’s happening in her life, yet Matteo tells her his cousin is much worse than him, Viviana agrees (though she doesn’t really have much to say).
The book was astonishing, the drama, the suspense. The plot was so developed and explained. The relationship of Matteo and Viviana was heart gripping and amazing.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Amazing and marvellous book.
Matteo is a mob boss. His cousin wants to gain power in Matteo’s area by cooperating with a governor and marrying his daughter, Viviana. Matteo, then in order to counterplot, takes Viviana and she will become his wife. Even though she can’t believe what’s happening in her life, yet Matteo tells her his cousin is much worse than him, Viviana agrees (though she doesn’t really have much to say).
The book was astonishing, the drama, the suspense. The plot was so developed and explained. The relationship of Matteo and Viviana was heart gripping and amazing.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2021
I give this story 4 stars only because it did bring a tear to my eye and made me angry. I did find it extremely irritating how weak the h was even though I did like her…and the H pulling the trigger on her in a Russian roulette style attempted murder when he mistakenly thought she betrayed him…and him willing to kill her through 75 % of the book…. And her just forgiving him in 2 seconds…. Weak women ffs grow some!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
This book was fantastic! I could not put it down and I finished listening to it in one day. I absolutely love the world and the characters that Ava Harrison has created and I am looking forward to going back and re-listening to previous books that feature Cyrus and Alaric.
April 6, 2021
Matteo makes Viviana a offer she can’t refuse, marry him and bring down her father which is a win to her cause she can gain her freedom from a father she can’t stand but she’s about to jump out of the pan and into the fryer when she gets more then she bargained for with Matteo
August 11, 2023
Vivi trochę za szybko mu wybaczyła, mogła go trochę pomęczyć XD
April 1, 2021
I liked the thought of this book, but it didnt reach my expectations. Details were missing and I was so confused about what was going on with the h constantly saying “I have a secret”. It’s not until 90ish% of the book when we find out. It was just dragged out for too long that I lost interest.
The details of the wedding would’ve been nice to read. What did her dress look like? Her shoes? Her jewelry?
The h was falling for the H but there was no reading of the interaction between the two. We are to believe that the h was falling for the H after 2 weeks and nothing was being written. It was just bam, 2 weeks later “I’m falling for him”. The character development was blah.
The bedroom scenes were boring to read. It was very... quiet and non descriptive. It was over before it even started.
There’s also quite a bit of contradictions during several scenes. She acknowledges her beta readers but I’m gathering they’re more her friends than true beta readers because anyone who actually read the book, would be helping her out and telling her that certain scenes aren’t right and don’t make sense.
The details of the wedding would’ve been nice to read. What did her dress look like? Her shoes? Her jewelry?
The h was falling for the H but there was no reading of the interaction between the two. We are to believe that the h was falling for the H after 2 weeks and nothing was being written. It was just bam, 2 weeks later “I’m falling for him”. The character development was blah.
The bedroom scenes were boring to read. It was very... quiet and non descriptive. It was over before it even started.
There’s also quite a bit of contradictions during several scenes. She acknowledges her beta readers but I’m gathering they’re more her friends than true beta readers because anyone who actually read the book, would be helping her out and telling her that certain scenes aren’t right and don’t make sense.
![Profile Image for Daniela [What A Bookworm Reads].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1604858214i%2F110035692._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 6, 2021
*ARC provided in exchange of an honest review*
Oops Ava did it again!!
If you loved Cyrus and Alaric, you don’t have any chance with Matteo.
Im just gonna say: age gap, arranged marriage, mafia romance... what else you need? ⠀⠀
In this book we meet Matteo Amante (yaaas, that Matteo who helps Alaric and Cyrus. Spoiler alert: they’re friends and they have a cameo in this book hahaha) an italian mobster, who’s in war for the power with his cousin. But as always in every war there are collateral damage and that’s Viviana Marino.
Viviana is the New Jersey’s governor daughter, who’s one of Matteo’s enemies, and he’s working with Salvatore Amante in his war against Matteo. Soooo he decides to marry his daughter to Salvatore and that’s when the real war begins.
⠀⠀
This book is full of secrets, tension (a looooot of tension between Viviana and Matteo), mafia, steam and romance.
Matteo is so so sweet and Im fell for him so fast. Im just gonna say: HE COOKS!!! And Viviana is pretty brave and a beautiful soul. And she loves books, do I need to say more?
⠀⠀
Ruthless Monarch is now available on amazon. Go grab your copy and give a chance to Matteo 🧡🔥🙌🏻
4/5⭐️
Oops Ava did it again!!
If you loved Cyrus and Alaric, you don’t have any chance with Matteo.
Im just gonna say: age gap, arranged marriage, mafia romance... what else you need? ⠀⠀
In this book we meet Matteo Amante (yaaas, that Matteo who helps Alaric and Cyrus. Spoiler alert: they’re friends and they have a cameo in this book hahaha) an italian mobster, who’s in war for the power with his cousin. But as always in every war there are collateral damage and that’s Viviana Marino.
Viviana is the New Jersey’s governor daughter, who’s one of Matteo’s enemies, and he’s working with Salvatore Amante in his war against Matteo. Soooo he decides to marry his daughter to Salvatore and that’s when the real war begins.
⠀⠀
This book is full of secrets, tension (a looooot of tension between Viviana and Matteo), mafia, steam and romance.
Matteo is so so sweet and Im fell for him so fast. Im just gonna say: HE COOKS!!! And Viviana is pretty brave and a beautiful soul. And she loves books, do I need to say more?
⠀⠀
Ruthless Monarch is now available on amazon. Go grab your copy and give a chance to Matteo 🧡🔥🙌🏻
4/5⭐️
April 4, 2021
Ruthless Monarch by Ava Harrison was a dark, intense, and steamy ride. Matteo Amante is the Anit-Hero you never knew you needed in your life. He is mysterious; he is hot. He is dangerous, and he is the man you want on your side. Viviana is the daughter Matteo’s rival and enemy. She has never been free to do what she wants in her entire life, always being under the thumb of her controlling father. I loved that Viviana finally decided to take matters into her own hands and become the independent, confident princess she was meant to be! These two characters together burn up the pages!
The plot of this story left me guessing with every twist and turn! Ava has created characters that will leave a lasting, emotional impression on you! Being in this dark, mafia world left me captivated by the motives these characters took to get what they wanted. I could not put this book down. Ava Harrison has once again left me mesmerized with this epic, dark mafia enemies-to-lovers paired with marriage of convenience romance! I loved this book!
The plot of this story left me guessing with every twist and turn! Ava has created characters that will leave a lasting, emotional impression on you! Being in this dark, mafia world left me captivated by the motives these characters took to get what they wanted. I could not put this book down. Ava Harrison has once again left me mesmerized with this epic, dark mafia enemies-to-lovers paired with marriage of convenience romance! I loved this book!
August 25, 2021
Genuinely confused by all the high ratings (on this + her other stories) and wondering if it's another LJ-mob situation. Whatever, third book I've read of this author's and I promise, never again.
Predictable story + lacroix characters + pointless, unnecessary drama + very poorly written = instant DNF recipe. The characters were SO flat they made Kristen Stewart's portrayal of Bella look exciting. Honestly, this was the worst. There was no chemistry whatsoever between the leads, and nothing again between the other characters. The h really was a dumbass, basically TSTL and the H tried so hard - but man, you can't create substance out of thin air. And the story, MY GOD. In contention for the worst of the year.
I only read it bc it was all over my KU - which has me wondering, is there a way to NOT see certain authors on my discover page?
Predictable story + lacroix characters + pointless, unnecessary drama + very poorly written = instant DNF recipe. The characters were SO flat they made Kristen Stewart's portrayal of Bella look exciting. Honestly, this was the worst. There was no chemistry whatsoever between the leads, and nothing again between the other characters. The h really was a dumbass, basically TSTL and the H tried so hard - but man, you can't create substance out of thin air. And the story, MY GOD. In contention for the worst of the year.
I only read it bc it was all over my KU - which has me wondering, is there a way to NOT see certain authors on my discover page?
June 29, 2021
I wanted to like this. It had quite a few spelling and grammatical errors, and it somehow changed his age twice, but the biggest issue I had?
HE SHOT HER IN THE HEAD. No bullet came out (Russian roulette) but she just forgave him no problem! What?!
HE SHOT HER IN THE HEAD. No bullet came out (Russian roulette) but she just forgave him no problem! What?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2021
I really love mafia romances. The synopsis for this book really called to me and the story started off great. I enjoyed the dual narration, having both Matteo and Viviana tell the story.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, however things started to slow for me after that. I found myself still invested in finding out what happened, but skimming to get to the end. I was able to guess what many of the great reveals where before they happened.
Ava Harrison is a talented writer, I just think this book probably wasn't for me. I do look forward to seeing what she writes next.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, however things started to slow for me after that. I found myself still invested in finding out what happened, but skimming to get to the end. I was able to guess what many of the great reveals where before they happened.
Ava Harrison is a talented writer, I just think this book probably wasn't for me. I do look forward to seeing what she writes next.
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