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Caterina
It was just a fling. Nothing serious.
I was the girl who worked in his rich family’s kitchen…
And Valentino was the mafia prince who looked like a movie star.
But then his family went and set up an arranged marriage…
To the daughter of a Cosa Nostra family in Sicily.
Now I realize it was never a fling.
I’m in love with him.
And it feels like my whole world is ending.

Valentino
It was just a fling. Nothing serious.
I’m the youngest of six brothers in a mafia family –
And she was the cute girl-next-door who worked in our kitchen.
But then my asshole brother set up an arranged marriage…
To the daughter of a psychopathic Sicilian mafia boss.
I didn’t know what I had with Caterina until it was gone.
I know I can’t disobey my family’s command…
But I might just have to if I want to be with the woman I TRULY want.

Mafia Valentino is #6 in a dark Mafia Romance series.

Other books in the

Mafia Dario (#1)
Mafia Adriano (#2)
Mafia Massimo (#3)
Mafia Lars (#4)
Mafia Roberto (#5)

There is no cheating. There IS an HEA.

this book contains adult situations, profanity, violence, and dark romance themes.

554 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2024

1098 people are currently reading
753 people want to read

About the author

Olivia Thorn

26 books267 followers

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5 stars
997 (59%)
4 stars
431 (25%)
3 stars
176 (10%)
2 stars
49 (2%)
1 star
20 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
2 reviews
January 2, 2025
Valentino

Absolutely loved all the previous books in this series and would give them all 5 stars but this was a real disappointment. Both Valentino and Cat were quite immature so it was hard to really feel anything for them. An incredible overuse of brackets () that was just distracting. I hope the last book in the series will be more like the early ones.
Profile Image for Nicole.
183 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2025
I was looking forward to reading Valentino’s story, since the other ones have been incredible. This one was just a bit disappointing to me. I like spicy books but I also like to have some kind of plot to them. I just felt that there was none at all and for it to be such a long book, I thought we would get a more in depth look to the characters. Instead it just felt kind of repetitive and boring.

I still enjoyed the book, I just wish there was more excitement and plot to go on. Valentino is still so young, so I understand the choices he was making but it was just frustrating to say the least.

This book was mostly smut, so if you like that then this is the perfect book for you. Sometimes that is what I’m in the mood for but after reading the other books that were action packed and then to this…it was just okay.
Profile Image for Joud.
224 reviews19 followers
October 1, 2025
It was different from the previous book in the series, but still an enjoyable, fun, and light mafia romance. I didn’t expect that from Val, but I still loved it.
2 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
The BEST one so far

I loved Valentino's story, it was hilarious and spicy. Olivia outdone herself with this one. I can't wait for Niccole's book.
Profile Image for Mar.
2,230 reviews43 followers
January 2, 2025
2 stars

This one gets 2 stars because I love Isabella and the fact that she was a side character, yet she was the only character I was rooting for?!?! *face palms*
Val and Cat were morons. I didn't like them at all. The fact that Val blamed everyone else for his own stupid decisions *shakes fist* and the fact that everyone was in danger because of him and he kept acting like a toddler *head bangs on wall" I don't like it!
Also, the fact that Cat made stupid decisions after stupid decisions and thought of herself "omg I'm So BrAvE!" *puts idiot sandwich gif here*
Ugh, they were so infuriating!!!
Again, Isa and Lu were my shining stars in this book, and I wish them all the happiness. For Val and Cat, I don't care about them.

Now... Nico is next and I can't wait!
Profile Image for Mish_Reads.
38 reviews
June 27, 2025
Going to post a spoiler below…
.. my reasoning behind my 4/5 star review
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Ok so at the end of the book when Valentino and Cat decided to get married I HATED when everyone else asked to join in on also getting married too. I was disappointed it should have been Cats “day” instead and should have been all about Cat especially because she was always the “secret”.. and he originally declined the offer to marry her vs Isabella to begin with or even just had the original bride and groom get married to their chosen partners.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Caitlin.
70 reviews5 followers
July 26, 2025
Not surprised. I absolutely loved & adored Valentino's book! This whole series is GOD TIER in my opinion!
Profile Image for Naa Ayorkor.
5 reviews
January 17, 2025
Fireworks until…

I fell in LOVE with this series, the jokes, romance, the edge of your seat (or page) engagment with all the brothers until….sigh, Valentino. Felt like a high school hallway drama, bit of a let down, not much of a fast paced as in the other story lines and Caterina’s character development was sorely lacking a 20-year old single female more like an emotionally-induced 14-year old teenager.
Just too much of a build up to not get lost or embrace this installment. I am waiting on Niccolo, redemption is still possible.
Profile Image for Tashia.
180 reviews
June 9, 2025
Valentino was a spoiled brat! If I were Dario, I would kick him out the family!
Profile Image for Mishmash.
37 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2025
I've been looking forward to Valentino's book for ages, and I feel so disappointed.
I thought I would love Valentino as a character, but honestly, all Valentino thought about was himself & the horizontal tango.

I'm so disappointed with Valentino. Cat was ready to go to war for him, run away with him, but all he did was come up with excuses. He'd blame Niccolo- he was an irredeemable asshole, granted, but Val himself was not blameless.
He does grow up a lot through the book, and held himself a bit more accountable, but my god, not enough. For me- it would've been way too little, way too late.
He was so self centered, immature, selfish, vain, and obtuse. He does not deserve Cat and I'm annoyed he didn't try harder to be better for her.
If you hadn't got it so far, I wasn't a big fan of this book, which I'm also upset about. I thought I was going to love it
I'm also upset because I know how much work Olivia Thorn has put into this book, how far she's travelled to Sicily to get to know the places better. She also writes beautifully, her characters are very three dimensional, relatable, and so tenacious. In comparison, Val came across like a whiny little kid who wasn't capable of handling any responsibility.
Plus, I hate that I'm not raving about OT's hard work, because I wanted to. I expected to. I'm upset that I'm not raving about it.
If Cat's energy hadn't been a one way street and both parties were actively fighting to be together again, I'm pretty sure I'd have really enjoyed it, but it was just such a one way street. A giver and a taker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ling Zhu.
4 reviews
January 16, 2025
This book made me mad. The previous books in this series were quite enjoyable but this one, man! Valentino literally goes to Sicily because his brother ordered him to? Like damn. I would have whooped his ass like you changed my diapers? No? Then don't tell me what to do! Like I get that he's the don or the consigliere or whatever but like never in my life would I lie down and take it if my siblings told me I had to get married and live in Sicily like in the most genuine way possible, I just cannot with the way he's so compliant to his brothers. Like with Don Vicari, I get it. Dude's a scary bastard, and he won't hesitate to kill you. But your own brothers? Like stand the fuck up for yourself dude! I literally read this in a couple hours, because I usually read really fast, but this made me have to pause and contemplate life multiple times throughout the process of my reading it. And Caterina? Do not get me started on Caterina. She's so dry. Flavorless. Like a piece of untoasted, cold white bread with nothing on it. Like damn. And the sexy scenes are dry because onomatopoeia is NOT favored in dark romance. I want to read a description of the sex and come to my own conclusions on what happened, not have it forcefully spoon-fed to me. And Dario? I liked him fine enough in his own book. But in this book? He's like "I knew you were in love so I gave you that choice" which is okay, but when Valentino declined? Why the fuck would you send him into enemy territory to deal with a man who has his whole compound heavily guarded, like it's his territory. You're not going to be able to pull no rescue mission in Sicily! If it was in Italy bordering their territory, like that's fine, but how the fuck you gonna save him if you don't even know where he is? Plus, you have no money and no men. Seriously, that was really heartless of him and the whole if you don't marry her you have to marry Caterina thing just didn't make sense! Like he has no benefit from pushing Valentino and Caterina together! It just doesn't make any sense! And Alessandra helping her is fine and all, and the nonna coming out was great, but this book just made me really, really mad. I just have to say, her other books may be good but this one disappointed me so badly I nearly cried.
Profile Image for Aisha ♡ (semi-hiatus).
59 reviews5 followers
January 19, 2025
Book review: Mafia Kings: Valentino by Olivia Thorn

Rating: ★★★★☆ ✨

What better way to start the year than with this book, this story, and these characters? Olivia Thorn creates characters you can’t help but love, and she really outdid herself with this one. I couldn’t put down this 600+ page mafia book and ended up finishing it in a day. It’s been a while since a story pulled me in like this, but her writing had me hooked!


Valentino’s Story is the sixth book in the Mafia Kings series, and while each book can technically be read as a standalone, I’d highly recommend reading them in order to get the full experience. This one was a great addition to the series, though I have to be honest—it wasn’t my absolute favorite - Adriano and Massimo will forever have my heart 💓

It wasn’t a full five star read for me because I felt the relationship between the main characters could have had more depth, and their emotional connection didn’t always hit as hard as I wanted. Sometimes it felt too physical and not enough emotional, which left me wanting more. The beginning also started a bit slower than the previous books, but once it picked up? Oh, it delivered! The middle and the ending had me sooo invested.

Now that I’m done with Valentino, I’m even more hyped for book seven! Like, what do you mean Niccolo and Fausto’s female consigliere?! I just know she’s gonna be his undoing, and I am so ready for it. I’m already counting down the days until it drops! If it’s anything like the rest of the series, it’s gonna be so goodddd and I seriously can’t wait to see where the author takes us next.

All in all, it’s still a solid read and 100% worth picking up—especially if you’re already a fan of the series!
Profile Image for Justine.
13 reviews2 followers
November 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5 Spice
Review of Mafia Kings: Valentino by Olivia Thorn
Olivia Thorn delivers a wild, emotional, and undeniably spicy addition to her Mafia Kings series with Valentino. Valentino and Catarina made quite the appearance in the series opener (Dario) so it was great to get to revisit their story and see the happily ever after play out. This is a classic star-crossed lovers scenario with a few diabolical twists and smutty turns.
Pros:
Cat (FMC) is surprisingly relatable — she’s not your typical mafia romance heroine, and that makes her easy to root for. She’s just a normal hard-working woman who has found herself thrust into an impossible situation by lust (and eventually love). Valentino (our MMC) is as likable as ever, with just the right blend of danger and humor. The chemistry between them absolutely sizzles; the spice level easily hits four peppers, and yes… the church scene speaks for itself.
I also loved how this book ties neatly into the previous storylines. The returning characters feel purposeful rather than thrown in for nostalgia. The timelines of the series previous works meld well into this one and pushes the story along purposefully. Alessandra’s appearance as a solid main player was a great touch and Niccolo (while hardly likeable in this storyline) was an essential part of making this plotline work and was set up to be the next MMC quite well. He certainly gave off the Machiavelli vibes that he was named for which will make for an interesting next installment in the series.
Cons:
That said, there’s some surprisingly gory violence that caught me off guard — more graphic than I expected for a series that is mostly smut with a side of plot. The massive wedding finale was definitely quite the cliche, and the bride being a lesbian was the least surprising “surprise” of the whole story
Other Notes:
The biggest plot twist — the consigliere in the barn — was genuinely shocking and easily the most memorable moment.
Thorne’s informal writing style isn’t what I usually read, but it works here. It brings readers right inside the characters’ heads, grounding the high drama with raw emotion and humor.
Final Thoughts:
Mafia Kings: Valentino leans heavily into its tropes — star-crossed lovers and a solid HEA — but does so with enough spice and emotional payoff to keep readers hooked. Despite a few over-the-top moments, it’s an entertaining and fiery ride that fans of the series (and the genre) will love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carolyn Norman.
766 reviews8 followers
January 3, 2025
This book was so good. I loved the way it was written in Valentino’s voice. I loved the ending…it was perfect!

It’s the sixth book in the Mafia Kings series. This book featured Valentino, the youngest and most impetuous brother. He was 22 years old and a serious playboy until he met Catarina.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is that other than the first one, all of the books tells a brother’s perspective of the war they find themselves in. So by this book you have a handle of what’s going on but it’s still intriguing to find out what’s happening with that brother.

This story:
Since the Rosolinis are at war and out of money, Niccoli works out a deal with Don Vicari of Sicily to marry his daughter to Valentino. It will give them additional men, as well as a vote at the Council. Both things they need to fight their Uncle.

The story is about what happens to Valentino, Catarina and his pledged bride Isabella. How Valentino becomes a man. How Catarina pledges her life to Valentino and how Isabella is saved from her father.

Besides Dario it’s the next best book in the series. Can’t wait for the final book in the series. If you like mafia romance novels, this series is a great read.

Profile Image for Carolyn.
1,798 reviews7 followers
January 5, 2025
Valentino and Caterina

Swoon! Valentino is a fairy tale with a horror story thrown in. It is also a totally great ugly cry book so have plenty of tissues around. Valentino is the baby of the family and has skated through life going through women like toilet paper and getting by on his good looks and charm. He definitely charms the new kitchen help, Caterina, and begins a torrid affair. Until he’s order to marry a mafia princess in Sicily and move there. Cue the tears and tissues. Both Caterina and Valentino are devastated. I’ve got to say I really do not like Niccolo. He’s been a horse's patootie the last two books. Ms Thorn will have to really redeem him for me in his book. Anyway back to our star crossed lovers. Valentino is miserable. He’s got a psychopath for a future father in law, a wannabe gangster for a brother in law and a shy bookworm for a future wife. He also really misses what he lost…Caterina. Meanwhile Caterina is devastated but bff Alessandra convinces her to go after what she wants. Things get hairy in Sicily and you don’t want to miss out on the action, suspense, drama and steam. Yep this one is super super steamy. I absolutely loved this book and will be rereading it often.
5 reviews
March 6, 2025
I was so excited for this book. I wanted to know more about Valentino and how he would end up with Cat, because let’s be real, if you read all the other books you knew where this was going. However, I feel disappointed, like 80% of the book seemed like filler, even the sex scenes seemed to lack the enthusiasm that Massimo or Roberto’s stories had. I mean, how many times can they have sex in a pantry? Plus all the men seem to be built the same way and all the women think they are so big. At least Roberto’s story had a bit more interesting scenes. Maybe I noticed this more because I’ve read them all in a row. Then add in Val’s whiny attitude about doing what was necessary for the family and he comes off as a spoiled brat and maybe that was the intent because he’s the baby, and it just was all too underwhelming. Will Intead Niccolo’s story when it comes out? Hell yes! Mainly because I need to know how he finds the one, but I’m really hoping the story will be better told that this one and with a lot less flashback/explanations because that’s all just filler that isn’t needed after reading about it 5 times already.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Debbie.
729 reviews1 follower
October 14, 2025
Valentino

These two main characters were difficult to like. Both are fairly shallow although good for each other. It was painful watching how long it took the MMC to grow up. Some examples,

“She didn’t ask me to use a condom, which was super-fucking hot.”

Cringe

“Now, part of me was a little hesitant. She obviously had a past if she was that good at fucking. But mostly I was like, Whatever.”

More cringe

When asked if he loves the MFC,
“A woman comes all the way here for you – you risk my father beating you within an inch of your life – and you hadn’t ‘thought about it’?”

So entitled, so privileged, so oblivious. Cringe, cringe, cringe.

This about sums up his whole character,
“But the world was full of fucking idiots. And I was about to become the poster boy for them.”

Ugh, you were the poster boy all along.

I'll give him props for doing a full on grovel to get the MFC back as she deserved. Also, I appreciated Isabella and Ludavica.
Profile Image for Linda.
962 reviews2 followers
January 13, 2025
Love or Loyalty_ Ties that Bind 🔥

Valentino, the youngest Rosolini Mafia brother, is forced into a strategic marriage with Isabella, daughter of the brutal Sicilian Mafia head. But Valentino's heart belongs to Caterina, the woman he was forced to give up. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their passionate connection drives the story.
As Valentino navigates the treacherous world of mafia politics, he must tread carefully to avoid the wrath of the Sicilian Mob boss. With its twists and surprises, this story is a gripping addition to the Mafia Kings series.

Fair warning: this book contains violent and brutal scenes, but fans of the genre will appreciate the authenticity. If you've enjoyed the previous brothers' stories, you'll love Valentino's tale. 🤓
2 reviews
May 10, 2025
This was not romance, it was a horror story

**SLIGHT SPOILERS** First of all before I drag these characters let me just say I love this series and the writing style. But this book read like a horror story. Two people falling in love over nothing. No shared interests, no personal growth. Just good looks and vibes. Multiple times I was screaming at my kindle for our girlie to stand up because he only liked her out of lust and convenience. Would I recommend- hell yes. Women let this story serve as a cautionary tale. If people give you money to start a new life - start the new life! This man took 10K from her no explanation and dragged her through the dirt. Only to choose her at the very last minute. Crazy work.
40 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2025
I had no idea how this was gonna go!

What a read! I’m a little sad because it’s almost the end of the series. I’m a little annoyed at Niccolo even though I understand his reasoning, he seemed so hard on Valentino. He tells everyone what to do while barely putting himself at risk outside of strategy.

ANYWAY, this was a great read and I’m happy Valentino got his happily ever after and I’m super proud of how Catelina eventually stood up for herself. I’ll never forget the characters in this series, it feels like they’re real and like I know them 😩 as I’ve said in reviews for the other books in this series: WELL DONE MS. THORN 🔥
Profile Image for KHANI.
127 reviews
July 7, 2025
FINALLY my pookie val got it together had my good sis Caterina waiting for him to get his shit together!! Don V had his funny moments don’t ever put your hands on my man though!!! Paola needed that how he was taking iktr Valentino had to handle thattt!!!! when Val cried when she left him! Yea she deserved better and to have someone who loved her out loud not only in secret!! Alessandra did her big one this book she going to get her man Dario together every time so cute seeing the core four again everyone booed up!!! the allegation was crazy but he had that girl back but please threesome almost forget about Caterina real quick. Love how Valentino wasn’t going stood on BUSNIESSSSS!!
Profile Image for Kelly.
293 reviews
August 27, 2025
4.5 stars for Valentino and Caterina's story. This one was intense for me and one I looked forward to reading. So intense I skimmed over a lot of the descriptive stuff because I had to know what was going to happen next. This had so many twist and turns, there was spice and humor and drama. I wish it wasn't so intense but I think it made the storyline better. These two were younger than the rest and his was the only arranged marriage, which I felt was so unfair to the youngest brother all the way to the end. And I'm happy with how Isabella was taken care of by the family. Niccolo was beyond a jerk in the last few books--power trip? I hope he gets over himself in his own story.
19 reviews
January 1, 2025
SPOILERRRRRR

I loved how the book tied everything together and I finished it within 24 hours as planned!!! I stayed up until it was available on kindle unlimited. SPOILER - I totally guessed that Isabella and Luda were together but other than that it was the only guess I got right. Nic really made me mad during this book he was a real jerk and I can’t wait for him to meet his match in his book. I also wanted Cat to stand up!!! She finally did and I was proud of her. I really loved the ending of everyone getting married together. Can’t wait for the next book!!!
Profile Image for xbebex78.
69 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2025
WHAT A RIDE !!!!!

Caterina was not having any luck on finding a cooking job because she didn’t have experience. Until her luck changed and she got an interview that will change her life. She started working for the Rosolini as a cook, and that’s where she met Valentino Rosolini. They both have chemistry, which they couldn’t get enough of each other. Things toke a turn, when Valentino had to do something he didn’t want for the sake of his family. It was rocking, but you will have to read the book. Can’t wait to see who chooses Niccolo, lol
Profile Image for Brittany Dunn.
146 reviews
January 18, 2025
amazing!

I had liked Valentino and Cat since the Dario’s book with Alessandra. Valentino was my favorite brother since the beginning, I love them all especially Massimo, but I learned to like him. Where Valentino I always liked him. I like how he tried to be a good man to Isabella, Niccolo really bothered me this book, he was also one of my favs in the other stories but I didn’t like him in this one. I get his point but he still annoyed me lol. I can’t wait for his book though, I’m really sad this series is ending tho!!
Profile Image for tastewart.
98 reviews
January 3, 2025
In my opinion, this book certainly could have used some editing…like the part where she explains the plot of “The Godfather part II”and another movie. I didn’t understand Paulo’s change and there was no explanation as to why he changed. It made zero sense. The ending was cute! Bottom line is this series is entertaining but there were 120+ chapters in this story…I don’t remember the others I. The series being this long.
21 reviews
January 3, 2025
Another homerun!!

Another great book to your amazing series of the Rosalini Brothers. I love reading about Valentino and Caterina love story from how they meet, to how his family obligations tore them apart, to his immaturity being his downfall and losing his one true love. Then their struggles to stay together til he finally admitted to his family he was in love with her. Great love story. I can not wait to read about Niccolo's love interest, and who will it be to bring him to his knees.
Profile Image for Megaroni Jo.
23 reviews1 follower
January 3, 2025
Wow...

I swear each book in this series just gets better and better! I don't know how many times this one had me crying though. The feelings of both Caterina and Valentino were expressed so well I couldn't help but feel them for the characters too. It was so good I'm both beyond excited for the next book and terribly sad the series is coming to an end. I need about a dozen more brothers to read about!!
Profile Image for Sandra R. Valdez.
470 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2025
Val & Cat

What a story.. Val & Cat started out as a fling. Two consenting adults enjoying the pantry. Lol.
Val had to do what was demanded of him. He was given an out, but.. wait.. you have to ready the series. Sacrifices were a must to show your loyalty. There's no out when it comes to traditions. Your word was as if you had signed a contract. A man's honor is in the line. It's a great series. A must-read..
189 reviews
February 6, 2025
I love Val

I've been waiting for this story as I really liked Valentino from the first book. He is the youngest and this does show at the beginning but this evolves throughout the story. He is torn between love of Catarina or loyalty to the family and he fights with it all the way through. There are a couple of frustrating points in this book but ultimately it's a good read. A good balance of spice and plot. Can't wait for Nic's story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews

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