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The Art Of Ruin: Sin and Shadows Book 3
- GenresMafia Romance
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2026
3 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 2, 2026
This was a really great mafia romance. Both Alek and Layla were wonderful characters. From the first chapter to the last, I was completely pulled in. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I loved the depth of the characters. There were so well written. I haven’t read the first two books, but I’ll definitely be going back to read them.
March 4, 2026
Thanks so much for the ARC!! I haven't read many mafia books but I definitely enjoyed this one!! I will also be going back and reading the other 2 books in the series!
February 21, 2026
3.75⭐️Alek had me first intrigued in the first book and I knew that I would devour his story. I just LOVE Alek and when he goes all Pahkan and MINE on Layla I just find it so hot🤣 Add in those cute moments he has with little Soyfia and I’m swooning. That man takes care of his own. He really did deserve her happily ever after and I was here for it! 🫶🏼All Layla has ever known is a simple innocent life, until her world is flipped upside down. It took her a while to come to terms with the mafia life. She wasn’t always my favorite at times, but she had her moments. I loved little Soyfia!!! She was one of the cutest, spunkiest little four year old I’ve read in a while, she had me laughing out loud. I’m hoping and looking forward to Patricks story.
There were few things that didn’t hit the mark for me. Sometimes it felt like the timeline was all over the place, but then it would be noted a few pages later. Some chapters were longer than others, and sometimes there were things that were repeated. Also, the fmcs anxiety didn’t hit all the way for me, it kind of felt brushed aside.
Safety notes:
- dead wife troupe
- fmc is a V
- It’s mentioned that’s it’s been a while for the mmc
Thank you to Emerie Quyen for this arc in exchange for a honest review.
Sin and Shadows🪷
#1: chasing midnight ~ kieran & everleigh 3⭐️
#2: scorched by shadow ~ luca & sasha 3.5⭐️
There were few things that didn’t hit the mark for me. Sometimes it felt like the timeline was all over the place, but then it would be noted a few pages later. Some chapters were longer than others, and sometimes there were things that were repeated. Also, the fmcs anxiety didn’t hit all the way for me, it kind of felt brushed aside.
Safety notes:
- dead wife troupe
- fmc is a V
- It’s mentioned that’s it’s been a while for the mmc
Thank you to Emerie Quyen for this arc in exchange for a honest review.
Sin and Shadows🪷
#1: chasing midnight ~ kieran & everleigh 3⭐️
#2: scorched by shadow ~ luca & sasha 3.5⭐️
March 3, 2026
Please read at your own discretion this review contains spoilers x
When I started this book I was hoping it was Patrick's book - which when reading the prologue from Seamus & Kate POV I thought yes it is about Patrick - but then the first chapter says Alek, so I will admit I was disappointed until maybe chapter 3 after meeting Layla & the escapes these 2 go on ij the first couple chapters x
I found Alek's tale forlorn as it gave more insight into the sequence of events leading to poor Katya's demise, but also there was so much love too through the relationship with his daughter Sofiya - who for only being 4, is already shown what their heir to the Pakhan's future and lifestyle is all about - she is so spirited & full of life, which is amazing to read after the 3 years she was kept under hee grandfather's rule x
I was such a nice perspective to read Layla's POV as she is introduced into the Syndicate instead of being born from into it and this for me gave the story more depth x
When Layla & Tiffany are taking by the Cartel and we meet Peyo (AKA Geek God or GG) I knew straight away where this story was heading and then to get that confirmation in the chapters before this books epilogue made it so much better - know, however I am sad having to wait to see what becomes of these families x
I am also sad that we didnt get to met Rory & Fiona's babies not get much information on little Roman as he spent the book living in Layla's womb x
Looking forward to Book 4 xxxxxxx
When I started this book I was hoping it was Patrick's book - which when reading the prologue from Seamus & Kate POV I thought yes it is about Patrick - but then the first chapter says Alek, so I will admit I was disappointed until maybe chapter 3 after meeting Layla & the escapes these 2 go on ij the first couple chapters x
I found Alek's tale forlorn as it gave more insight into the sequence of events leading to poor Katya's demise, but also there was so much love too through the relationship with his daughter Sofiya - who for only being 4, is already shown what their heir to the Pakhan's future and lifestyle is all about - she is so spirited & full of life, which is amazing to read after the 3 years she was kept under hee grandfather's rule x
I was such a nice perspective to read Layla's POV as she is introduced into the Syndicate instead of being born from into it and this for me gave the story more depth x
When Layla & Tiffany are taking by the Cartel and we meet Peyo (AKA Geek God or GG) I knew straight away where this story was heading and then to get that confirmation in the chapters before this books epilogue made it so much better - know, however I am sad having to wait to see what becomes of these families x
I am also sad that we didnt get to met Rory & Fiona's babies not get much information on little Roman as he spent the book living in Layla's womb x
Looking forward to Book 4 xxxxxxx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2026
i love a mafia romance but a single dad mafia romance has my heart. I have a new book boyfriend and I’m so obsessed with Alek Petrova! This man is traumatised from all the stuff his father put him through and our fmc, I love her, but she likes to lash out when she’s mad. But he’s never gotten mad at her, he just kinda follows her around like a lost puppy and it’s adorable. I love the one night stand trope, especially when the chemistry is BLAZING HOT. This book had the most amazing mafia plot, very intense and full of great twists. But, what I loved the most was the sense of found family, after all the familial betrayals that Layla went through, she finds a place where she feels like she belongs and feels loved. That part really was so beautiful and I cried a whole damn lot. I felt very emotionally connected to this book (or it could have just been my period haha), especially Layla because I loved all the connections to her Vietnamese heritage. And as someone from Hong Kong, it’s important to distinguish these less recognised cultures and represent them in books. The romance obviously was adorable. And I loved both characters, especially the growth they went through. I also adored Alek’s daughter Sofyia, she was a bright ray of sunshine and great comedic relief. This book was the perfect mix of tension, dark mafia vibes and sweet romance. I give this a 4.5/5
March 12, 2026
The Art of Ruin continues the Sin and Shadows series with a darker tone and deeper character development. As the story progresses, the stakes feel higher and the emotional weight of the characters’ choices becomes even more apparent.
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was how the story expands on the conflicts introduced earlier in the series. The relationships and tensions between the characters grow more complex, which adds depth to the overall narrative.
There’s also a strong sense of momentum as the plot unfolds. New developments keep the story moving forward while gradually revealing more about the world and the challenges the characters face.
For me, this earns 4 ⭐ because the story kept me invested in the characters and their journey, though a few moments could have benefited from a bit more exploration.
Overall, it’s a solid continuation of the series that builds on the tension and intrigue established in the earlier books.
This is a 4 ⭐ for me because:
• the character conflicts become more layered
• the story builds nicely on earlier events in the series
• the darker tone adds intensity to the narrative
• the plot developments keep the story interesting
Dark. Dramatic. Intriguing.
Read this book if you like:
• paranormal or dark fantasy romance
• character-driven series
• evolving supernatural worlds
• stories filled with tension and emotional stakes
One of the aspects I enjoyed most was how the story expands on the conflicts introduced earlier in the series. The relationships and tensions between the characters grow more complex, which adds depth to the overall narrative.
There’s also a strong sense of momentum as the plot unfolds. New developments keep the story moving forward while gradually revealing more about the world and the challenges the characters face.
For me, this earns 4 ⭐ because the story kept me invested in the characters and their journey, though a few moments could have benefited from a bit more exploration.
Overall, it’s a solid continuation of the series that builds on the tension and intrigue established in the earlier books.
This is a 4 ⭐ for me because:
• the character conflicts become more layered
• the story builds nicely on earlier events in the series
• the darker tone adds intensity to the narrative
• the plot developments keep the story interesting
Dark. Dramatic. Intriguing.
Read this book if you like:
• paranormal or dark fantasy romance
• character-driven series
• evolving supernatural worlds
• stories filled with tension and emotional stakes
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been impatiently waiting for Alek’s story, and it did not disappoint!
While this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first two books so you fully understand the backstory and everything at stake.
Alek Petrov is the Pakhan of the Russian Bratva—powerful, feared, and carrying the weight of devastating loss. After losing his wife in a brutal way, he’s left raising his young daughter while trying to undo the damage his father created. Watching him balance ruthless leader with devoted father added so much depth to his character.
Layla’s story was deeply moving. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say I’m so glad she found someone like Alek—someone who truly worships her. Their connection was intense, emotional, and full of that addictive push-and-pull that makes mafia romance so compelling.
This book tied up so many loose ends from book two while also delivering a cliffhanger that has me desperate for more! The heat, chemistry, and suspense were everything I hoped for.
The only thing I wanted a bit more of was the relationship between Layla and her mother. I would have loved a little extra closure there.
Overall, another amazing mafia romance by Emerie Quyen! If you love powerful antiheroes, emotional depth, and high-stakes suspense, this one’s for you.
While this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first two books so you fully understand the backstory and everything at stake.
Alek Petrov is the Pakhan of the Russian Bratva—powerful, feared, and carrying the weight of devastating loss. After losing his wife in a brutal way, he’s left raising his young daughter while trying to undo the damage his father created. Watching him balance ruthless leader with devoted father added so much depth to his character.
Layla’s story was deeply moving. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say I’m so glad she found someone like Alek—someone who truly worships her. Their connection was intense, emotional, and full of that addictive push-and-pull that makes mafia romance so compelling.
This book tied up so many loose ends from book two while also delivering a cliffhanger that has me desperate for more! The heat, chemistry, and suspense were everything I hoped for.
The only thing I wanted a bit more of was the relationship between Layla and her mother. I would have loved a little extra closure there.
Overall, another amazing mafia romance by Emerie Quyen! If you love powerful antiheroes, emotional depth, and high-stakes suspense, this one’s for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review for The Art of Ruin (4.5 ⭐ & 3 🌶️)
The author does a wonderful job capturing the conflicting emotions each character experiences and painting a vivid picture of what it means to be part of a bratva family.
Alek was a great leading man. He checked all the boxes: strong, feral, protective, possessive - and somehow still a gooey cinnamon roll for those he loves. He absolutely fits the bill for a Russian pakhan!! Layla was dealt a horrible hand from the jump, and watching her struggle to trust and love again was both heartbreaking and rewarding. She encounters a few bumps and makes some mistakes along the way, but her desire to be part of Alek’s life and world ultimately leads her down a path of healing and growth.
Although this is technically a standalone, it is interconnected with the two previous books. I do wish I had read them first to have a fuller understanding of the characters and relationships woven throughout this story. My absolute favorite character is little Sofiya and I really hope that one day the author writes a book into the future that gives us her story, because I would grab it in a heartbeat!
If you love dark romance with possessive "touch her and die" energy, emotional layering, and a strong redemption arc, this one is absolutely worth the read!
The author does a wonderful job capturing the conflicting emotions each character experiences and painting a vivid picture of what it means to be part of a bratva family.
Alek was a great leading man. He checked all the boxes: strong, feral, protective, possessive - and somehow still a gooey cinnamon roll for those he loves. He absolutely fits the bill for a Russian pakhan!! Layla was dealt a horrible hand from the jump, and watching her struggle to trust and love again was both heartbreaking and rewarding. She encounters a few bumps and makes some mistakes along the way, but her desire to be part of Alek’s life and world ultimately leads her down a path of healing and growth.
Although this is technically a standalone, it is interconnected with the two previous books. I do wish I had read them first to have a fuller understanding of the characters and relationships woven throughout this story. My absolute favorite character is little Sofiya and I really hope that one day the author writes a book into the future that gives us her story, because I would grab it in a heartbeat!
If you love dark romance with possessive "touch her and die" energy, emotional layering, and a strong redemption arc, this one is absolutely worth the read!
February 28, 2026
The story follows Alek, a Russian Pakhan chasing redemption from his father's wrong doings, and Layla, a woman searching for her biological roots after a shocking discovery about her past. What begins as a chance encounter in a bar quickly spirals into a high stakes game of protection when Alek discovers the Cartel is tracking Layla.
I love how the first few chapters do an excellent job of establishing who Alek and Layla are. You understand their baggage and their motivations before the action truly kicks off.
Layla’s journey is particularly moving. After growing up feeling like she was never good enough in her mothers eyes then finding out the secret her mother had been keeping from her to seeing her find her 'found family' and a true HEA with Alek and his daughter, Sofiya, was incredibly satisfying.
The bonding moments between Layla and Alek’s young daughter added a layer of sweetness to an otherwise gritty mafia world.
Even though this is the third book in an interconnected series, the author provides enough backstory that you won't feel lost if you jump in here. That said, knowing the history of the previous characters will add more depth to the world building!
So if you love a protective Pakhan, a secret pregnancy trope, and a heroine finally finding where she belongs, give this a look.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
I love how the first few chapters do an excellent job of establishing who Alek and Layla are. You understand their baggage and their motivations before the action truly kicks off.
Layla’s journey is particularly moving. After growing up feeling like she was never good enough in her mothers eyes then finding out the secret her mother had been keeping from her to seeing her find her 'found family' and a true HEA with Alek and his daughter, Sofiya, was incredibly satisfying.
The bonding moments between Layla and Alek’s young daughter added a layer of sweetness to an otherwise gritty mafia world.
Even though this is the third book in an interconnected series, the author provides enough backstory that you won't feel lost if you jump in here. That said, knowing the history of the previous characters will add more depth to the world building!
So if you love a protective Pakhan, a secret pregnancy trope, and a heroine finally finding where she belongs, give this a look.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
I hadn’t read the first two books in the series when I got the exciting opportunity to receive an ARC from Emerie Quyen for the third installment. I immediately picked up the first two before diving into this one—and I can confidently say it did not disappoint.
Alek was kind and unlike any mafia MMC I’ve read before, which was honestly really refreshing. The story itself was thoughtfully put together, and the cultural representation was done well. That said, there were moments where things felt a bit rushed, and at times it was a lot to process at once. The mafia element wasn’t the central focus of the story, but I didn’t mind that—it still added to the overall narrative. There were few things that didn’t hit the mark for me. One thing that did stand out to me was the MFC’s mother being mentioned in the first few chapters and then never really brought up again…what happened to her????
More than everything, I enjoyed little Soyfia, but I did enjoy seeing characters from the earlier books make a appearances! She was such an adorable and easily one of the most entertaining child characters I’ve read recently. overall it was a good read.
I hadn’t read the first two books in the series when I got the exciting opportunity to receive an ARC from Emerie Quyen for the third installment. I immediately picked up the first two before diving into this one—and I can confidently say it did not disappoint.
Alek was kind and unlike any mafia MMC I’ve read before, which was honestly really refreshing. The story itself was thoughtfully put together, and the cultural representation was done well. That said, there were moments where things felt a bit rushed, and at times it was a lot to process at once. The mafia element wasn’t the central focus of the story, but I didn’t mind that—it still added to the overall narrative. There were few things that didn’t hit the mark for me. One thing that did stand out to me was the MFC’s mother being mentioned in the first few chapters and then never really brought up again…what happened to her????
More than everything, I enjoyed little Soyfia, but I did enjoy seeing characters from the earlier books make a appearances! She was such an adorable and easily one of the most entertaining child characters I’ve read recently. overall it was a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2026
Thank you to the author for the eARC copy of this book! This is my honest and voluntary review! 😊🖤
The Art Of Ruin follows FMC, Layla Tran, an accountant, and MMC, Aleksander Petrov, Bratva Pakhan (Head Mafia Boss) of the Las Vegas Syndicate. The story starts with Layla finding out her mother isn’t who she seemed to be, one thing lead to another and she ended up in Vietnam this is where she meet Alek, in a Vietnamese night club. They both start drinking and end up having a one night stand. Then the pair end up pregnant and a bunch of situations occur.
This book is very well written and keeps you completely invested in the story with so many twist and turns as well as being packed with so much action. This was my first time reading an Emerie Quyen novel and it was a very enjoyable reading experience. The story kept my attention completely. I just wanted the all the characters to be okay and I was in their corner. I would a hundred percent read from Emerie Quyen again in the future and I can’t wait to see where this story goes. Definitely worth the read! 😊🖤
5 🌟/ 2.5 🌶️
The Art Of Ruin follows FMC, Layla Tran, an accountant, and MMC, Aleksander Petrov, Bratva Pakhan (Head Mafia Boss) of the Las Vegas Syndicate. The story starts with Layla finding out her mother isn’t who she seemed to be, one thing lead to another and she ended up in Vietnam this is where she meet Alek, in a Vietnamese night club. They both start drinking and end up having a one night stand. Then the pair end up pregnant and a bunch of situations occur.
This book is very well written and keeps you completely invested in the story with so many twist and turns as well as being packed with so much action. This was my first time reading an Emerie Quyen novel and it was a very enjoyable reading experience. The story kept my attention completely. I just wanted the all the characters to be okay and I was in their corner. I would a hundred percent read from Emerie Quyen again in the future and I can’t wait to see where this story goes. Definitely worth the read! 😊🖤
5 🌟/ 2.5 🌶️
March 3, 2026
The Art of Ruin is everything I want in a mafia romance. Forbidden love, instant connection, a powerful alpha hero, and tension that practically sparks off the page.
The hero is protective to the core, carrying his own demons while still being completely devoted to the heroine. I loved watching their relationship evolve from heat and attraction into something deeper and more emotional. The chemistry is undeniable, and the stakes feel real from start to finish.
There are moments of danger, passion, and vulnerability that kept me fully invested. The writing flows easily, making it hard to put down once you start. It is dramatic in the best way and gives you that intense romance feeling without losing the emotional heart.
If you love mafia romance with strong tropes and a hero who would burn the world down for his woman, this book belongs on your TBR.
The hero is protective to the core, carrying his own demons while still being completely devoted to the heroine. I loved watching their relationship evolve from heat and attraction into something deeper and more emotional. The chemistry is undeniable, and the stakes feel real from start to finish.
There are moments of danger, passion, and vulnerability that kept me fully invested. The writing flows easily, making it hard to put down once you start. It is dramatic in the best way and gives you that intense romance feeling without losing the emotional heart.
If you love mafia romance with strong tropes and a hero who would burn the world down for his woman, this book belongs on your TBR.
February 20, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
PLOT 10/10
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🌹Mafia romance🌹
🔥forbidden love🔥
✨instant connection✨
💋one night stand💋
🤰🏻unexpected pregnancy🤰🏻
❤️🔥touch her and die❤️🔥
🖤tortured/alpha hero🖤
The BEST Bratva romance I’ve read in a LONG TIME!!!! The angst, the love, the pain between Layla and Alek separately made the ending so much better!! Both enduring so much turmoil and heartache just to find each other on the other side of the world. I will forever recommend this story to anyone who is looking for a good mafia romance. DO NOT WAIT!!! The spice is perfection, the MMC is patient and fierce for his people, the FMC is pure and loyal to her family. Together they make the most incredible couple in their world💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
PLOT 10/10
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes
🌹Mafia romance🌹
🔥forbidden love🔥
✨instant connection✨
💋one night stand💋
🤰🏻unexpected pregnancy🤰🏻
❤️🔥touch her and die❤️🔥
🖤tortured/alpha hero🖤
The BEST Bratva romance I’ve read in a LONG TIME!!!! The angst, the love, the pain between Layla and Alek separately made the ending so much better!! Both enduring so much turmoil and heartache just to find each other on the other side of the world. I will forever recommend this story to anyone who is looking for a good mafia romance. DO NOT WAIT!!! The spice is perfection, the MMC is patient and fierce for his people, the FMC is pure and loyal to her family. Together they make the most incredible couple in their world💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
February 28, 2026
Ok this book definitely had me intrigued I couldn’t put it down
I love a mafia single dad romance and
Alek Petrova story did not disappoint.
Alek is the Pakhan of the Russian Bratva a powerful feared man who’s carrying the weight of a devastating loss. After losing his wife in a brutal way, he’s left raising his young daughter while trying to undo the damage his father created. Watching him balance ruthless leader and a devoted father was very interesting and added depth to his character.
Layla’s story was moving and I’m glad she found someone like Alek, someone who worships her. Their connection was intense, emotional, and full of that push pull that makes mafia romance so compelling I devoured it.
Everything about this book I ate up.
The chemistry and spice was addictive.
I love a mafia single dad romance and
Alek Petrova story did not disappoint.
Alek is the Pakhan of the Russian Bratva a powerful feared man who’s carrying the weight of a devastating loss. After losing his wife in a brutal way, he’s left raising his young daughter while trying to undo the damage his father created. Watching him balance ruthless leader and a devoted father was very interesting and added depth to his character.
Layla’s story was moving and I’m glad she found someone like Alek, someone who worships her. Their connection was intense, emotional, and full of that push pull that makes mafia romance so compelling I devoured it.
Everything about this book I ate up.
The chemistry and spice was addictive.
March 7, 2026
this book follows Layla, an accountant, and Aleksander, the Bratva Pakhan of the Las Vegas Syndicate. Layla uncovers that her mother wasn’t who she thought she was. One discovery leads to another, eventually bringing Layla to Vietnam. While there, she meets Alek at a nightclub. After spending the night drinking together, the two end up having a one-night stand. Things quickly become more complicated when an unexpected pregnancy and a series of intense events begin to unfold.
The book is very well written and keeps you hooked from beginning to end with plenty of twists, turns, and action throughout the story. The story held my attention the entire time, and I found myself rooting for the characters and hoping everything would work out for them.
The book is very well written and keeps you hooked from beginning to end with plenty of twists, turns, and action throughout the story. The story held my attention the entire time, and I found myself rooting for the characters and hoping everything would work out for them.
March 8, 2026
Wow! What a great story! With twists, turns, emotions, love, finding self and of course spice!!!!
Layla is a young Vietnamese girl who finds out her whole life is not wat it seems. So she runs to try to find answers....in Vietnam.
Alek is a Russian born Pakhan who is trying to fix all the wrong his father did. And to make life better for his daughter and the Bravta.
They meet and have an earth shattering night. She disappears but "fate" puts them back together. Through trials and tears they must overcome a lot to be together. They learn and find themselves as individuals and together. HEA
World and character development on par. I love me a good mafia dark romance and this didn't disappoint.
I need more!!
Layla is a young Vietnamese girl who finds out her whole life is not wat it seems. So she runs to try to find answers....in Vietnam.
Alek is a Russian born Pakhan who is trying to fix all the wrong his father did. And to make life better for his daughter and the Bravta.
They meet and have an earth shattering night. She disappears but "fate" puts them back together. Through trials and tears they must overcome a lot to be together. They learn and find themselves as individuals and together. HEA
World and character development on par. I love me a good mafia dark romance and this didn't disappoint.
I need more!!
March 9, 2026
This book has all of the twists and turns that I was NOT expecting.
Layla finds out truths about herself that has been kept from her for most of her life. She has no idea who she really is and runs to try to find out the truth about her past.
Alek is the Vegas Pakhan, who is trying to be a better man than his father. So he starts by trying to right some of the wrongs his father committed.
In their journeys, Layla and Alek meet in Saigon, Vietnam…..where their story begins.
Read if you like:
Found Family
Mafia
Hidden Identity
Sassy Gay Best Friend
And so many more things that would spoil the story for you!
Thank you Emerie Quyen and Epica Book PR for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing story! ❤️❤️
Layla finds out truths about herself that has been kept from her for most of her life. She has no idea who she really is and runs to try to find out the truth about her past.
Alek is the Vegas Pakhan, who is trying to be a better man than his father. So he starts by trying to right some of the wrongs his father committed.
In their journeys, Layla and Alek meet in Saigon, Vietnam…..where their story begins.
Read if you like:
Found Family
Mafia
Hidden Identity
Sassy Gay Best Friend
And so many more things that would spoil the story for you!
Thank you Emerie Quyen and Epica Book PR for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing story! ❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I hadn’t read the first two books in this series before I started this one. I was a bit confused of all the characters at first but I was able to figure out who was who fairly easily.
The relationship between Sofiya and Layla was so sweet. I absolutely loved how protective and possessive Alek is of Layla. That man was all about her from the minute he met her. I also really enjoyed the different cultures that were mentioned & discussed throughout the book.
If you like mafia romance books, I would recommend this!
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The relationship between Sofiya and Layla was so sweet. I absolutely loved how protective and possessive Alek is of Layla. That man was all about her from the minute he met her. I also really enjoyed the different cultures that were mentioned & discussed throughout the book.
If you like mafia romance books, I would recommend this!
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story was good but it felt there were some ties that just dropped off. One was Layla's mom it was spoke about in the beginning but just kind of dropped off in the book. I would like to know more about that part of the story. Alek was a great MMC I adored his possessiveness because it wasnt overbearing. Layla was ok I think I would have connected better if her background was a bit more complete. Sofiya was so adorable and brought some comedy to the story. Honestly she was probably one of my favorite kid characters that I have read in a long time. Over all this book was great and if you like soft mafia books this would be the one to read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this ARC and I went in blind having never read this author before, so I had not read any of the previous books in the series. I was pleased that the character building in the prior books wasn’t necessary to enjoy this book. It did take me awhile to get into the story, the Patrick bit at the beginning did have me confused since I hadn’t read the other books. But once Layla and Alek met the story picked up well and I truly enjoyed the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such an amazing book. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. So many twists and surprises.
Emerie really put so much into her characters.
I loved getting to read Aleksander's story. You'll get to understand all the pain, struggles, loss, and love he's experienced. Such detail.
Emerie really put so much into her characters.
I loved getting to read Aleksander's story. You'll get to understand all the pain, struggles, loss, and love he's experienced. Such detail.
March 2, 2026
The Art of Ruin was such an intriguing read. I loved getting the backstories of Alek and Layla. It really helped explain why they are the way they are. Alek is possessive, but not in the typical mafia‑Pahkan way, and their chemistry together was so good. I’m excited to see where things go in the next book.
March 5, 2026
💔Her life is built on lies.
⛓️His is built on control.
They live in completely separate worlds.
One thing is certain, she is his and there's nothing anyone can do about it.
If you're looking for sweet & strong to meet loyal & fierce, look no further. Emerie Quyen breathes life into Layla and Alex's lives.
And BTW, if you're anything like me, It ends EXACTLY how you're hoping!
⛓️His is built on control.
They live in completely separate worlds.
One thing is certain, she is his and there's nothing anyone can do about it.
If you're looking for sweet & strong to meet loyal & fierce, look no further. Emerie Quyen breathes life into Layla and Alex's lives.
And BTW, if you're anything like me, It ends EXACTLY how you're hoping!
March 8, 2026
Aleksander, Bratva, has a one-night stand with Layla that has lasting repercussions that neither had expected. Pushed into a world that she doesn't understand, Layla has to determine if her trust of Aleksander will sustain their relationship after all the danger is eliminated.
A very interesting read from a new author to me.
A very interesting read from a new author to me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great well written book and the characters were very deep and interesting. This book made me feel all the emotions and kept you on the edge of your seat .
I haven’t read the first 2 books but I will be going back and reading them to.
I haven’t read the first 2 books but I will be going back and reading them to.
March 1, 2026
This book took me a while to get into it. The chapters were long and there were too many characters to keep track of in the first chapter. There were definitely parts that I enjoyed but I didn’t enjoy with this book as much as I thought I would.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was good. It had all the twists and turns that kept your attention. I will definitely recommend this book
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alek and Layla, oooh my what a wicked hot sexy read.
Loved the heat 🥵 🔥, Mafia read wicked, suspense, Romance.
Seriously couldn't get enough.
Loved it
Loved the heat 🥵 🔥, Mafia read wicked, suspense, Romance.
Seriously couldn't get enough.
Loved it
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Perfect book for my tastes if you love fast paced mafia then this is for you!
March 4, 2026
amazing book!
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