A review by ljamison01
Empire of Temptation by Mila Finelli

dark emotional mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Luca has come to New York to find his cousin and he believes that Val’s father will lead him to his cousin. So he decides to visit Val’s restaurant which is the antithesis of everything truly Italian. He dislikes the food, the wine, the decor and after a mild fiasco every one from her restaurant is fired and he hires new people to assist her who will inform him what’s going on. Val is very much attracted to and yet intimidated by Luca. Luca is intrigued by her but he doesn’t want to get involved with a very young virgin. Luca was all those things we love our mafia men to be: possessive, tough, capable, demanding but incredibly attentive to her needs. The flirting between them was cute and the romance was steamy. Loved the interactions with Luca and his sons, so nice to see an involved and concerned father.