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Heir of Darkness
Luna Kingsley always knew that she would be forced into an arranged marriage.
However, on her sixteenth birthday, when she drunkenly admits to the son of the rival mafia family, Valerio Vitali, that she wants out of all marriage contracts, she never thought he would be the one throwing her headfirst into one.
Seven years later, he’s back at Grand Willow University seeking out his fiancée.
Only she wants nothing to do with him.
Too bad for her, he’s back to claim her as his, but this time he’s not letting her go.
Fighting her feelings and her thirst for freedom, Luna can’t decide what to choose: her loyalty towards herself or the Heir of Darkness.
When the real monsters reveal themselves, Luna finally makes a decision.
But in this war, it might already be too late.
However, on her sixteenth birthday, when she drunkenly admits to the son of the rival mafia family, Valerio Vitali, that she wants out of all marriage contracts, she never thought he would be the one throwing her headfirst into one.
Seven years later, he’s back at Grand Willow University seeking out his fiancée.
Only she wants nothing to do with him.
Too bad for her, he’s back to claim her as his, but this time he’s not letting her go.
Fighting her feelings and her thirst for freedom, Luna can’t decide what to choose: her loyalty towards herself or the Heir of Darkness.
When the real monsters reveal themselves, Luna finally makes a decision.
But in this war, it might already be too late.
376 pages, ebook
Published May 30, 2025
11 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 26, 2025
﹙ two stars ﹚
i am like a dog with a bone; as soon as you say college mafia romance i come running
— overall thoughts
this one is for the girls who love arranged marriage, mafia college, he-falls-first dark romances. (that’s me, i am one of those girls.)
as always, it is the romance that fuels all three stars of this rating. heir of darkness has so many of my favorite tropes, including a possessive mmc, but also an incredibly human and sympathetic and caring mmc. valerio is a dark mafia heir to the core—who has a not-so-secret soft spot for his fiancé.
about 30% into this book, one of my notes was how much i enjoyed that valerio doesn’t hold back any part of himself when he’s with luna. we truly do love a man who knows exactly who he wants and will do anything to have her.
— valerio and luna
valerio was so down bad, i was obsessed.
we first see him from luna’s pov after she sneaks out of a party—one where her father intends to promise her hand in marriage to the highest bidder. and even from the start, valerio is so gentle and understanding and doting. in every moment of this book, there is no doubt how much he adores her. every choice he makes is with her in mind, and regardless of how luna acts, he is unwavering in his devotion.
i really enjoyed him so much as a character and a mmc. despite the dark billing of this book and the violence that he's demonstrably capable of, it’s so clear that luna is his soft spot, the center of his world, his little moon.
it was also very rewarding seeing luna slowly open up and come to realize her own feelings towards valerio. this was by far my favorite part of the book. luna is faced with plenty of difficult truths, and seeing her turn to valerio each time for comfort and gradually realizing what their connection means to her was just so satisfying.
in all other aspects outside of their romance though, luna was a frustratingly stubborn character. i found myself highlighting her dialogue and passages with lots of question marks and all-capped notes. while initially i understood luna’s desire to be free and to be, as the kids say, just a girl; that understanding was sorely tested by the end of the book.
— everything else
just a jumble of brief thoughts touching upon the mafia plot and the side characters:
first, while the romance was my favorite part of this book, the mafia plot was my least favorite. there were moments of tension, threats, and some stakes, but none of it really landed for me. i never felt like they were truly in danger, nor did i ever have any doubt that they would be able to overcome it. there is a twist at the end that i really appreciated, and which elevated the overall mafia storyline to me, but perhaps it is just because it is set against a college backdrop, some of the dialogue and sequence of events surrounding the mafia storyline felt out of place.
however, on the other hand, i loved the side characters. at the end of the book lejla muric teases that future sequels will be coming, and there is one particular pairing i am really hoping to see. luna’s friends—gianna, cecilia and blair—are such wonderful supporters of hers, really genuine, and also just hilarious. valerio's brother dante was my soft spot as i was reading. however, it was luna’s brother, finn, who really stole the show for me. he piqued my interest every time he showed up, and i am so, so hoping that we get to dive into his darkness in a future book.
— final notes
i think heir of darkness is one of those books that benefited from me being in the perfect mood to read it. i have been clamoring for a college mafia romance, and this one just hit the spot.
the arranged marriage was handled so well, and i really enjoyed that we do get a lengthy, rewarding payoff after valerio and luna's relationship develops.
— thank you to lejla muric and love notes pr for the e-arc to review!
i am like a dog with a bone; as soon as you say college mafia romance i come running
— overall thoughts
this one is for the girls who love arranged marriage, mafia college, he-falls-first dark romances. (that’s me, i am one of those girls.)
as always, it is the romance that fuels all three stars of this rating. heir of darkness has so many of my favorite tropes, including a possessive mmc, but also an incredibly human and sympathetic and caring mmc. valerio is a dark mafia heir to the core—who has a not-so-secret soft spot for his fiancé.
about 30% into this book, one of my notes was how much i enjoyed that valerio doesn’t hold back any part of himself when he’s with luna. we truly do love a man who knows exactly who he wants and will do anything to have her.
— valerio and luna
valerio was so down bad, i was obsessed.
we first see him from luna’s pov after she sneaks out of a party—one where her father intends to promise her hand in marriage to the highest bidder. and even from the start, valerio is so gentle and understanding and doting. in every moment of this book, there is no doubt how much he adores her. every choice he makes is with her in mind, and regardless of how luna acts, he is unwavering in his devotion.
i really enjoyed him so much as a character and a mmc. despite the dark billing of this book and the violence that he's demonstrably capable of, it’s so clear that luna is his soft spot, the center of his world, his little moon.
it was also very rewarding seeing luna slowly open up and come to realize her own feelings towards valerio. this was by far my favorite part of the book. luna is faced with plenty of difficult truths, and seeing her turn to valerio each time for comfort and gradually realizing what their connection means to her was just so satisfying.
in all other aspects outside of their romance though, luna was a frustratingly stubborn character. i found myself highlighting her dialogue and passages with lots of question marks and all-capped notes. while initially i understood luna’s desire to be free and to be, as the kids say, just a girl; that understanding was sorely tested by the end of the book.
— everything else
just a jumble of brief thoughts touching upon the mafia plot and the side characters:
first, while the romance was my favorite part of this book, the mafia plot was my least favorite. there were moments of tension, threats, and some stakes, but none of it really landed for me. i never felt like they were truly in danger, nor did i ever have any doubt that they would be able to overcome it. there is a twist at the end that i really appreciated, and which elevated the overall mafia storyline to me, but perhaps it is just because it is set against a college backdrop, some of the dialogue and sequence of events surrounding the mafia storyline felt out of place.
however, on the other hand, i loved the side characters. at the end of the book lejla muric teases that future sequels will be coming, and there is one particular pairing i am really hoping to see. luna’s friends—gianna, cecilia and blair—are such wonderful supporters of hers, really genuine, and also just hilarious. valerio's brother dante was my soft spot as i was reading. however, it was luna’s brother, finn, who really stole the show for me. he piqued my interest every time he showed up, and i am so, so hoping that we get to dive into his darkness in a future book.
— final notes
i think heir of darkness is one of those books that benefited from me being in the perfect mood to read it. i have been clamoring for a college mafia romance, and this one just hit the spot.
the arranged marriage was handled so well, and i really enjoyed that we do get a lengthy, rewarding payoff after valerio and luna's relationship develops.
— thank you to lejla muric and love notes pr for the e-arc to review!
June 9, 2025
˗ˏˋ 4 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
i literally cannot put this book down, it had me HOOKED since page one. was it full of clichés? yes. was it super predictable? yes. did i still eat it up regardless? also yes.
ugh valerio — please tell me where to find a man like him. he was was SO DOWN BAD for her, i'm literally obsessed. i also loved seeing luna's character development and how fierce she was by the end of the book.
also, the side characters??? i NEED their books like i need air, especially my baby dante's book.
if you're looking for over-the-top wattpad dark college mafia romance, this book is IT.
⤷ thank you to the author and lovenotes pr for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
don't mind me catching up on my long list of arcs again... praying that this mafia romance HITS HARD *fingers crossed*
i literally cannot put this book down, it had me HOOKED since page one. was it full of clichés? yes. was it super predictable? yes. did i still eat it up regardless? also yes.
ugh valerio — please tell me where to find a man like him. he was was SO DOWN BAD for her, i'm literally obsessed. i also loved seeing luna's character development and how fierce she was by the end of the book.
also, the side characters??? i NEED their books like i need air, especially my baby dante's book.
if you're looking for over-the-top wattpad dark college mafia romance, this book is IT.
⤷ thank you to the author and lovenotes pr for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶˗ˋ୨♡୧ˊ˗︶︶︶⊹︶︶︶
₊˚⊹♡ pre-read ♡⊹˚₊ ↴
don't mind me catching up on my long list of arcs again... praying that this mafia romance HITS HARD *fingers crossed*
May 22, 2025
Heir of Darkness 🖤
Firstly I want to thank LoveNotes Pr and Lejla Muric for trusting me with this ARC.
To be honest I am not a mafia romance girly,actually I despise most of them,yet when I saw this one I immidiately knew I had to give it a chance,and oh boy Heir Of Darkness not only did not dissapoint but I think it made me a fan of this genre.
Luna knows her future:an arranged marriage for her family's cause.
Seven years ago the boy she drunkenly trusted,Valerio Vitali threw her into one,however without actually ever claiming her.Now,after all those years he is back for good and he comes to get what it is his without any intention of ever letting it go again.
To start with,I liked her writing so much.It was fast and constantly acts happened,I didn't even got a breath!Even,what stunned out for me,something I haven't seen in many books,is that we meet & get to know the characters while the plot unravels.Usually,we fist meet and then we see the story,leading to slower writing style.
Added,A TON of action was taking place all the time with new enemies always getting into the way,and a war between hearts & families,ready to start
Still,I found it the best choice mostly because we get to understand everything and why they keep happening somewhere is the middle of the story when the most romance took place and believe me this feeling was w o n d e r f u l.
As I talk about romance I will say it was fire.You cannot really say if it was slowburn or more instant,because deep down it was always there from both sides,yet the moment they let the flame out they burnt eachother with a love that you will not read about again,for quite some time,accompanied with wonderful smut scenes(you know all kinds of stuff🌶️)
My girl Luna was *chef's kiss*,she is beautiful in & out,stubborn ,full of love and hopes,even so caged in a family that wants her just for connections.What will happen when she understands Vitali may not be the man he shows?
For Vallerio I found it dull to say how beautiful,wonderful,amazing he is.You know mafia boy!
However,you may ask why this book was a five star,and you will be right.So far we have seen this plot, trop the smut everywhere.
Muric's story has that dose of reality in it,of course not that you will get kidnaped by a mafia boy(I am watching you girl,but I don't mean that).In this story we see the pain,the killing and what actually means being in the mafia,and trusting me it is not that glamorous.Specifically,we see the women,how they survive-or not-,how being a mother into this hell is,a woman with no rights who should constantly belong to someone,and how this impacts everything.Lastly,we see raw cruelty and feelings that were never here-or have been.
Personally,I would recommend it 100% HOWEVER please check the TWs before getting into!
5⭐
Firstly I want to thank LoveNotes Pr and Lejla Muric for trusting me with this ARC.
To be honest I am not a mafia romance girly,actually I despise most of them,yet when I saw this one I immidiately knew I had to give it a chance,and oh boy Heir Of Darkness not only did not dissapoint but I think it made me a fan of this genre.
Luna knows her future:an arranged marriage for her family's cause.
Seven years ago the boy she drunkenly trusted,Valerio Vitali threw her into one,however without actually ever claiming her.Now,after all those years he is back for good and he comes to get what it is his without any intention of ever letting it go again.
To start with,I liked her writing so much.It was fast and constantly acts happened,I didn't even got a breath!Even,what stunned out for me,something I haven't seen in many books,is that we meet & get to know the characters while the plot unravels.Usually,we fist meet and then we see the story,leading to slower writing style.
Added,A TON of action was taking place all the time with new enemies always getting into the way,and a war between hearts & families,ready to start
Still,I found it the best choice mostly because we get to understand everything and why they keep happening somewhere is the middle of the story when the most romance took place and believe me this feeling was w o n d e r f u l.
As I talk about romance I will say it was fire.You cannot really say if it was slowburn or more instant,because deep down it was always there from both sides,yet the moment they let the flame out they burnt eachother with a love that you will not read about again,for quite some time,accompanied with wonderful smut scenes(you know all kinds of stuff🌶️)
My girl Luna was *chef's kiss*,she is beautiful in & out,stubborn ,full of love and hopes,even so caged in a family that wants her just for connections.What will happen when she understands Vitali may not be the man he shows?
For Vallerio I found it dull to say how beautiful,wonderful,amazing he is.You know mafia boy!
However,you may ask why this book was a five star,and you will be right.So far we have seen this plot, trop the smut everywhere.
Muric's story has that dose of reality in it,of course not that you will get kidnaped by a mafia boy(I am watching you girl,but I don't mean that).In this story we see the pain,the killing and what actually means being in the mafia,and trusting me it is not that glamorous.Specifically,we see the women,how they survive-or not-,how being a mother into this hell is,a woman with no rights who should constantly belong to someone,and how this impacts everything.Lastly,we see raw cruelty and feelings that were never here-or have been.
Personally,I would recommend it 100% HOWEVER please check the TWs before getting into!
5⭐
May 25, 2025
4⭐️
I am an absolute SUCKER for college romances and it shows!
Not gonna lie, when I first started reading this book I wasn’t expecting too much. Why? Because the plot and tropes were done so many times before that there couldn’t possibly be anything remotely new about it. But, oh, was I wrong. While the tropes and plot were nothing new, the writing style and characters made me read this book in one sitting.
It might not be something entirely revolutionary and yet I absolutely LOVE whenever authors make use of the third person narrative. For some reason it makes me connect to the story and characters even more despite not hearing their interior monologue. So, plus points for that!!
Moreover, I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters. Luna and Valerio are the definition of the “it’s-always-been-you” trope. Despite being separated for seven years after their engagement, Valerio made sure to look after Luna without her noticing. In general, Valerio was such a pleasant surprise. Of course, you can’t be a saint in their world and yet, he sure was as good of a person as he could be. Also, he was down BAD for Luna and who doesn’t love desperate men?!
Now on to Luna: Sadly I don’t have that much to say about her. Personally, she behaved immaturely in various occasions. I am not sure whether I can blame her for that. She lived a rather sheltered life, dictated by her father’s choices. Though, I must admit, her character developed throughout the story, which was pretty nice. A good compensation for her rather simple character were the side characters. They carried the story when Luna couldn’t.
For that reason, the author teasing future releases in this universe piqued my interest a lot. Especially Valerio’s brother Dante or Luna’s best friends and her brother Finn left me particularly intrigued for future books!
Thank you for providing me with an arc!
~arc for honest review~
I am an absolute SUCKER for college romances and it shows!
Not gonna lie, when I first started reading this book I wasn’t expecting too much. Why? Because the plot and tropes were done so many times before that there couldn’t possibly be anything remotely new about it. But, oh, was I wrong. While the tropes and plot were nothing new, the writing style and characters made me read this book in one sitting.
It might not be something entirely revolutionary and yet I absolutely LOVE whenever authors make use of the third person narrative. For some reason it makes me connect to the story and characters even more despite not hearing their interior monologue. So, plus points for that!!
Moreover, I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters. Luna and Valerio are the definition of the “it’s-always-been-you” trope. Despite being separated for seven years after their engagement, Valerio made sure to look after Luna without her noticing. In general, Valerio was such a pleasant surprise. Of course, you can’t be a saint in their world and yet, he sure was as good of a person as he could be. Also, he was down BAD for Luna and who doesn’t love desperate men?!
Now on to Luna: Sadly I don’t have that much to say about her. Personally, she behaved immaturely in various occasions. I am not sure whether I can blame her for that. She lived a rather sheltered life, dictated by her father’s choices. Though, I must admit, her character developed throughout the story, which was pretty nice. A good compensation for her rather simple character were the side characters. They carried the story when Luna couldn’t.
For that reason, the author teasing future releases in this universe piqued my interest a lot. Especially Valerio’s brother Dante or Luna’s best friends and her brother Finn left me particularly intrigued for future books!
Thank you for providing me with an arc!
~arc for honest review~
May 31, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Luna and Valerio meet on her 16th birthday when she’s meant to be sold off to be wed by her father. Valerio steps in and makes a contract to marry her himself. The problem? Their families are rivals.
Seven years pass and Valerio is back in town from Italy and is ready for his bride. Luna has not come to terms with the arrangement while he’s been gone and pushes every button he has to avoid the inevitable.
Throughout the story we see mafia family issues come to a head with attempts on each of their lives. This leads them to making a big decision that will change the future of both families.
Overall, I enjoyed the book’s plot and romance, but I wasn’t a fan of the writing style and POV. Some parts seemed to jump around and the ending seemed abrupt to me personally.
Luna and Valerio meet on her 16th birthday when she’s meant to be sold off to be wed by her father. Valerio steps in and makes a contract to marry her himself. The problem? Their families are rivals.
Seven years pass and Valerio is back in town from Italy and is ready for his bride. Luna has not come to terms with the arrangement while he’s been gone and pushes every button he has to avoid the inevitable.
Throughout the story we see mafia family issues come to a head with attempts on each of their lives. This leads them to making a big decision that will change the future of both families.
Overall, I enjoyed the book’s plot and romance, but I wasn’t a fan of the writing style and POV. Some parts seemed to jump around and the ending seemed abrupt to me personally.
June 6, 2025
Book Review: Heir of Darkness by Lejla Muric
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A dark mafia romance with enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, and a blood-deep family feud? Yes, please. Heir of Darkness is Lejla Muric’s debut, and calling it anything less than a masterpiece would be unfair. She didn’t just write a book—she built a world that’s impossible to walk away from.
Every character, from the leads to the side ones, is layered and alive. You won’t be able to pick a favorite—you’ll want to protect them all. Each one carries their own pain, their own secrets, and their own version of love and loyalty. That depth? It’s what sets this book apart.
Now to Valerio and Luna... I’m in love. This man would kiss the ground she walks on. And Luna? She’s been through hell—sold off at 16 by her own father, betrayed, threatened—but twice, Valerio stepped in and made sure no one touched what was his. And she didn’t just survive—she rose. Luna transformed from a shy, voiceless girl into the woman who took on the two most powerful mafias in the world—her father and father-in-law. Even as danger circled Valerio, she never broke. She became the fire.
This isn’t just a man ready to burn the world down for love—it’s about the woman who lit the match.
Phenomenal. Exceptional. If I had to sum this book up in two words, those would be it. I’ll be watching Lejla Muric closely—because I need more from this world.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A dark mafia romance with enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, and a blood-deep family feud? Yes, please. Heir of Darkness is Lejla Muric’s debut, and calling it anything less than a masterpiece would be unfair. She didn’t just write a book—she built a world that’s impossible to walk away from.
Every character, from the leads to the side ones, is layered and alive. You won’t be able to pick a favorite—you’ll want to protect them all. Each one carries their own pain, their own secrets, and their own version of love and loyalty. That depth? It’s what sets this book apart.
Now to Valerio and Luna... I’m in love. This man would kiss the ground she walks on. And Luna? She’s been through hell—sold off at 16 by her own father, betrayed, threatened—but twice, Valerio stepped in and made sure no one touched what was his. And she didn’t just survive—she rose. Luna transformed from a shy, voiceless girl into the woman who took on the two most powerful mafias in the world—her father and father-in-law. Even as danger circled Valerio, she never broke. She became the fire.
This isn’t just a man ready to burn the world down for love—it’s about the woman who lit the match.
Phenomenal. Exceptional. If I had to sum this book up in two words, those would be it. I’ll be watching Lejla Muric closely—because I need more from this world.
July 1, 2025
“𝕳𝖊 𝖔𝖓𝖈𝖊 𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖒𝖎𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝖍𝖊 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖇𝖚𝖗𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖜𝖔𝖗𝖑𝖉 𝖉𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝕷𝖚𝖓𝖆. 𝕹𝖔𝖜 𝖎𝖙 𝖜𝖆𝖘 𝖙𝖎𝖒𝖊 𝖙𝖔 𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖊 𝖙𝖍𝖗𝖔𝖚𝖌𝖍 𝖔𝖓 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖕𝖗𝖔���𝖎𝖘𝖊…”
I’m completely blown away by the fact that this is Lejla Muric’s debut novel! You know I’m a Mafia romance girly through and through…and it has to be GOOD for me to get excited, and this book did NOT let me down! Mafia Romance with tons of angst, college setting and a man who KNOWS what and who he wants without question ?? SIGN. ME. UP. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Luna is our FMC…and when I say this girl has been through it, that’s an understatement. She’s known her whole life that she would be sold off to the highest bidder when she was of age…whoever would bring her family the most power…it’s all transactional in the mafia world, and her marriage is no different. But one drunken night she lets it slip to the son of her families rival that she is absolutely against arranged marriage and does not want it. What she doesn’t know? This boy has been in love with her for years…and there is nothing stopping him from making her his.
Valerio….our dark and broody MMC…that rival boy who took in all of Lunas secrets…protecting her and making sure NO ONE ever touched her? Why? She’s HIS…always has been…even if she doesn’t realise or want it. He’s back from exile and storming right into Lunas auction/engagement part…ready to claim her and make her his. And boy does he ever! 😍😍😍
Luna is not happy. In fact she hates him…he’s the last person she wants to be married to. But we know how things go in the mafia world…the person you hate the most ends up being the one you can’t stay away from. And that’s exactly what is happening her.
We do still have the backdrop of mafia suspense…secrets, betrayals….all threatening to tear them apart, but it felt less pronounced probably because they weren’t directly in it. The college setting took them out of it a bit…focusing more on them and their relationship which made sense. The tension and angst is still there. Don’t worry 😉
The passion and heat between these two is off the charts. Valerio is the definition of a man down BAD…there is nothing he won’t do for Luna…or do to her 🤭
My favorite part of this whole book was getting to see Lunas character development. The girl was giving me a migraine with her stubbornness 😂 BUT I GET IT! Girl I’d be locking up my emotions too and I’d be spinning out of orbit with Valerio giving me eyes and tucking my hair behind my ear 😩😩😩 you held out longer than me because it would take one look and I’d be running down the isle 😂😂 but this is why I wouldn’t survive in these books lol I’d be in a cage day one 😂 BUT…Luna…she’s strong. She was scared…but she never gave in. She held her cards close to her heart and fought back as much as Valerio fought FOR HER.
Valerio loved her even more for it…and when she finally let her walls down and let him in…let him LOVE HER…I was in tears…because it was EARNED on both their ends. Valerio is a dangerous man capable of horrible things…and while he took Luna because she was HIS…he wanted her life freely. He wanted her to give it to him…not take it…and he was willing to work for it and prove to her that despite the world they lived in, he could love her…TRULY LOVE HER…for who she is…not for what it can do for their families ❤️
Thank you so so so much to Lejla Muric and Love Notes PR for the incredible opportunity to ARC read this debut novel ❤️
🥀Dark Mafia Romance
🥃College Setting
🥀Arranged Marriage
🥃Possessive MMC
🥀Feisty FMC
🥃Morally Grey Hero
🥀3rd Person POV
🥃Enemies to Lovers
🥀He Falls First
🥃Man Obsessed
🥀Rivals to Lovers
🥃Found Family
🥀Angst/Tension
🥃Emotional Slow Burn
🥀SPICE
🥃Suspense
🥀Secrets/Betrayal
🥃Praise & Primal
🥀Touch Her & 💀
🥃Rival Mafia Families
🥀HEA
I’m completely blown away by the fact that this is Lejla Muric’s debut novel! You know I’m a Mafia romance girly through and through…and it has to be GOOD for me to get excited, and this book did NOT let me down! Mafia Romance with tons of angst, college setting and a man who KNOWS what and who he wants without question ?? SIGN. ME. UP. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Luna is our FMC…and when I say this girl has been through it, that’s an understatement. She’s known her whole life that she would be sold off to the highest bidder when she was of age…whoever would bring her family the most power…it’s all transactional in the mafia world, and her marriage is no different. But one drunken night she lets it slip to the son of her families rival that she is absolutely against arranged marriage and does not want it. What she doesn’t know? This boy has been in love with her for years…and there is nothing stopping him from making her his.
Valerio….our dark and broody MMC…that rival boy who took in all of Lunas secrets…protecting her and making sure NO ONE ever touched her? Why? She’s HIS…always has been…even if she doesn’t realise or want it. He’s back from exile and storming right into Lunas auction/engagement part…ready to claim her and make her his. And boy does he ever! 😍😍😍
Luna is not happy. In fact she hates him…he’s the last person she wants to be married to. But we know how things go in the mafia world…the person you hate the most ends up being the one you can’t stay away from. And that’s exactly what is happening her.
We do still have the backdrop of mafia suspense…secrets, betrayals….all threatening to tear them apart, but it felt less pronounced probably because they weren’t directly in it. The college setting took them out of it a bit…focusing more on them and their relationship which made sense. The tension and angst is still there. Don’t worry 😉
The passion and heat between these two is off the charts. Valerio is the definition of a man down BAD…there is nothing he won’t do for Luna…or do to her 🤭
My favorite part of this whole book was getting to see Lunas character development. The girl was giving me a migraine with her stubbornness 😂 BUT I GET IT! Girl I’d be locking up my emotions too and I’d be spinning out of orbit with Valerio giving me eyes and tucking my hair behind my ear 😩😩😩 you held out longer than me because it would take one look and I’d be running down the isle 😂😂 but this is why I wouldn’t survive in these books lol I’d be in a cage day one 😂 BUT…Luna…she’s strong. She was scared…but she never gave in. She held her cards close to her heart and fought back as much as Valerio fought FOR HER.
Valerio loved her even more for it…and when she finally let her walls down and let him in…let him LOVE HER…I was in tears…because it was EARNED on both their ends. Valerio is a dangerous man capable of horrible things…and while he took Luna because she was HIS…he wanted her life freely. He wanted her to give it to him…not take it…and he was willing to work for it and prove to her that despite the world they lived in, he could love her…TRULY LOVE HER…for who she is…not for what it can do for their families ❤️
Thank you so so so much to Lejla Muric and Love Notes PR for the incredible opportunity to ARC read this debut novel ❤️
🥀Dark Mafia Romance
🥃College Setting
🥀Arranged Marriage
🥃Possessive MMC
🥀Feisty FMC
🥃Morally Grey Hero
🥀3rd Person POV
🥃Enemies to Lovers
🥀He Falls First
🥃Man Obsessed
🥀Rivals to Lovers
🥃Found Family
🥀Angst/Tension
🥃Emotional Slow Burn
🥀SPICE
🥃Suspense
🥀Secrets/Betrayal
🥃Praise & Primal
🥀Touch Her & 💀
🥃Rival Mafia Families
🥀HEA
May 18, 2025
*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*
I loved loved loved this this book, except for one thing. The mfc, Luna was so unlikable. She had no personality, bratty, wined too much, I just couldn’t find her appeal. Everything else was perfect. Valerio was my mafia man of my dreams, romantic and caring but also bada** and will sh**t someone at the drop of a hat and oh he’s hot and rich!?! Found family, touch her and die vibes, all good!
I’d give this book a 3.5-4. It would have been a 5 if Luna had been more bearable and had some redeeming qualities. I think with the tweak of that character, the author has a huge hit on their hands!!! :)
I loved loved loved this this book, except for one thing. The mfc, Luna was so unlikable. She had no personality, bratty, wined too much, I just couldn’t find her appeal. Everything else was perfect. Valerio was my mafia man of my dreams, romantic and caring but also bada** and will sh**t someone at the drop of a hat and oh he’s hot and rich!?! Found family, touch her and die vibes, all good!
I’d give this book a 3.5-4. It would have been a 5 if Luna had been more bearable and had some redeeming qualities. I think with the tweak of that character, the author has a huge hit on their hands!!! :)
June 7, 2025
I didn’t go into this book with super high expectations. But wow, this one surprised me. The story might not break new ground, but the execution made all the difference.
The writing had me hooked right away. Valerio completely stole the show. He’s protective, loyal, and absolutely down bad for Luna (and honestly? I ate that up).
Luna took a bit longer to warm up to, she had some immature moments but her growth by the end made it worth it. The side characters were also so strong that I’m now lowkey counting down until we get spin-offs. Dante, Finn, and the girls? I’m ready.
Thank you Love Notes PR, and Lejla Muric for providing me with this ARC and in exchange for an honest review!
The writing had me hooked right away. Valerio completely stole the show. He’s protective, loyal, and absolutely down bad for Luna (and honestly? I ate that up).
Luna took a bit longer to warm up to, she had some immature moments but her growth by the end made it worth it. The side characters were also so strong that I’m now lowkey counting down until we get spin-offs. Dante, Finn, and the girls? I’m ready.
Thank you Love Notes PR, and Lejla Muric for providing me with this ARC and in exchange for an honest review!
May 28, 2025
this book was everything, my second dark romance book so far and i loved the tension between Luna and valerio, the chemistry, all, the writing is really easy to understand, HE IS OBSESSED W HER, I loved it 🌟
June 6, 2025
Luna and Valerio are drawn together and it works for them. However reluctantly they are about that fact. I enjoyed the he falls first and harder trope, that always gets me. I’m intrigued for future book and the side characters we met in this one.
Luna is immature in some respects but does pull it together later on in the book. I think the Author did a good job of developing her a bit and hopefully they make appearances in the next books so we can see more growth.
Luna is immature in some respects but does pull it together later on in the book. I think the Author did a good job of developing her a bit and hopefully they make appearances in the next books so we can see more growth.
July 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW ✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Luna Kingsley, the girl who wants nothing but fulfill her dreams. But from childhood she's been forced to behave and obey and when time come be a perfect bride so her father can marry (sell) her off.
Valerio Vitali, the heir of the biggest mafia empire, a cold monster everyone fear. He doesn't have time for emotions but he couldn't control them when he fall for a crying girl.
Luna hated valerio because he is her fiance but when he came back from Italy after 7 years, the little feelings she has for him starts to resurface. But is the love enough or the danger lingering in dark is coming after them????
The way valerio loved Luna from starting and was do respectful and consideratd to her wishes, I'mma go and cry 😭. He is the definition of a down bad man🛐.
This story literally took my heart from first chapter. From the characters to tension, feelings, spice and plot. I loved and devour it🤌😌.
(Ps: Need someone like valerio who is sooo freaking down bad for me😩🤚)
I RECOMMEND THIS TO EVERYONE YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED.
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Luna Kingsley, the girl who wants nothing but fulfill her dreams. But from childhood she's been forced to behave and obey and when time come be a perfect bride so her father can marry (sell) her off.
Valerio Vitali, the heir of the biggest mafia empire, a cold monster everyone fear. He doesn't have time for emotions but he couldn't control them when he fall for a crying girl.
Luna hated valerio because he is her fiance but when he came back from Italy after 7 years, the little feelings she has for him starts to resurface. But is the love enough or the danger lingering in dark is coming after them????
The way valerio loved Luna from starting and was do respectful and consideratd to her wishes, I'mma go and cry 😭. He is the definition of a down bad man🛐.
This story literally took my heart from first chapter. From the characters to tension, feelings, spice and plot. I loved and devour it🤌😌.
(Ps: Need someone like valerio who is sooo freaking down bad for me😩🤚)
I RECOMMEND THIS TO EVERYONE YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED.
May 30, 2025
Thank you, Love Note PR for this ARC and in exchange, an honest review.
Let's be honest and make it short, I don't think this book was made for me; reading this feels like torture, but it's still not fair for me to not rate this book (not gonna lie, it kept me entertained this whole time reading) while I can actually see what the author is trying to tell from the storyline, even though the plot was quite messed up.
I'm clearly not a fan of the main characters, both MMC and FMC were annoying to me. All they did was give me icks 😭🤚🏻 however, the side characters were the fun ones to read. It's sad to say that I'm actually in love with the side characters more than the main ones. Dante, Alister, Fin, Giana, and the girls play a huge part in this book; if it weren't because of them, I might DNF the book.
ps: If Dante and Fin have their own book, I might read it because they're lowkey my babies 😚💗
Let's be honest and make it short, I don't think this book was made for me; reading this feels like torture, but it's still not fair for me to not rate this book (not gonna lie, it kept me entertained this whole time reading) while I can actually see what the author is trying to tell from the storyline, even though the plot was quite messed up.
I'm clearly not a fan of the main characters, both MMC and FMC were annoying to me. All they did was give me icks 😭🤚🏻 however, the side characters were the fun ones to read. It's sad to say that I'm actually in love with the side characters more than the main ones. Dante, Alister, Fin, Giana, and the girls play a huge part in this book; if it weren't because of them, I might DNF the book.
ps: If Dante and Fin have their own book, I might read it because they're lowkey my babies 😚💗
May 22, 2025
First of all I want to say thank you for having the opportunity to have this ARC, you’re receiving lots of Love from Portugal here💗
Dare I say one of the best Mafia Romances I had read? But also I cannot lie about wanting to slap Luna at almost every sentence, like girl you have a hot man that will burn the world for you and you’re BLA BLA BLA everywhere? Give it to me then😭
Now no funny jokes, I understood why she was like that and seriously my girl deserved her man after all this, their history made me giggle and sob for at least 3 times for chapter but we don’t have to mention that part (i swear im not a crybaby)
Can we also please talk about how Valerio is THE man and how mature and intelligent this man is? I mean at each sentence he says I am like “GIGGLES GIGGLES GIGGLES fuck me GIGGLES GIGGLES”
Let’s include Finn, UGHHHH pretty please marry me I swear i cook better than Dante😞 (Justice for Dante)
୨୧ In general I want to congratulate The Author, this story got me locked in in the first moment I received her, the Development of the characters maturity and even the story in general made us think of how many rumours our life could follow, how sometimes we forget to appreciate the less we have when someone can be worst than us. Every time I read about Valerio’s past I couldn’t stop thinking how his mother would be smiling in the skies watching him and Luna fell in love, I couldn’t stop imagine the sadness Luna’s mom felt when she had to obey and not being able to see her own daughter achieving her dreams.. Every time I stop to think that Luna is living what both of the mothers didn’t live, my heart sinks a little bit for the mothers, yet my girl Luna deserved her man and the happiness she so long wished for. I want to mention how beautiful it is to see the bond between the characters and everyone helping each other (special including Finn and Valerio’s final act) this is serious the sweetest friend group. I wanted to include THE SMALL CHAPTERS UGHH THANK YOU SO MUCH MAAM
When i finished the book i was like “no, i absolutely need more” PLEASE MISS GIVE MY MAN FINN A LADY (me for example..) and Dante ughh he deserves a funny partner😭 i can’t wait to join the universe again and have the opportunity to read about them again. You officially have my heart Lejla💗 (and a n1 fan)
ʚ ═══･୨💌୧･═══ ɞ
I will leave here some of my favourite quotes🥹 (beyond the vows because my future husband better say vows like those)
-“You could stab me on the chest with an actual knife and I would still love you. I would say I’ll love you for the rest of our lives, but I know I’ll love you long after that too.”-
-“and your number is blocked.”
-“I’ll get a new number”
-“I will block that one too. Can you move back? you’re invading my personal space.”
-“I like having you close to me”
-“Oh it’s you again.”
-“Miss me?”
-“In your dreams.”
-“That’s where I see you.”
-Until the fear of losing her became suffocating. She was an obsession, a drug he couldn’t stop taking now that he had gotten a hit. Nothing and no one would compare to her. No way in hell.”
Dare I say one of the best Mafia Romances I had read? But also I cannot lie about wanting to slap Luna at almost every sentence, like girl you have a hot man that will burn the world for you and you’re BLA BLA BLA everywhere? Give it to me then😭
Now no funny jokes, I understood why she was like that and seriously my girl deserved her man after all this, their history made me giggle and sob for at least 3 times for chapter but we don’t have to mention that part (i swear im not a crybaby)
Can we also please talk about how Valerio is THE man and how mature and intelligent this man is? I mean at each sentence he says I am like “GIGGLES GIGGLES GIGGLES fuck me GIGGLES GIGGLES”
Let’s include Finn, UGHHHH pretty please marry me I swear i cook better than Dante😞 (Justice for Dante)
୨୧ In general I want to congratulate The Author, this story got me locked in in the first moment I received her, the Development of the characters maturity and even the story in general made us think of how many rumours our life could follow, how sometimes we forget to appreciate the less we have when someone can be worst than us. Every time I read about Valerio’s past I couldn’t stop thinking how his mother would be smiling in the skies watching him and Luna fell in love, I couldn’t stop imagine the sadness Luna’s mom felt when she had to obey and not being able to see her own daughter achieving her dreams.. Every time I stop to think that Luna is living what both of the mothers didn’t live, my heart sinks a little bit for the mothers, yet my girl Luna deserved her man and the happiness she so long wished for. I want to mention how beautiful it is to see the bond between the characters and everyone helping each other (special including Finn and Valerio’s final act) this is serious the sweetest friend group. I wanted to include THE SMALL CHAPTERS UGHH THANK YOU SO MUCH MAAM
When i finished the book i was like “no, i absolutely need more” PLEASE MISS GIVE MY MAN FINN A LADY (me for example..) and Dante ughh he deserves a funny partner😭 i can’t wait to join the universe again and have the opportunity to read about them again. You officially have my heart Lejla💗 (and a n1 fan)
ʚ ═══･୨💌୧･═══ ɞ
I will leave here some of my favourite quotes🥹 (beyond the vows because my future husband better say vows like those)
-“You could stab me on the chest with an actual knife and I would still love you. I would say I’ll love you for the rest of our lives, but I know I’ll love you long after that too.”-
-“and your number is blocked.”
-“I’ll get a new number”
-“I will block that one too. Can you move back? you’re invading my personal space.”
-“I like having you close to me”
-“Oh it’s you again.”
-“Miss me?”
-“In your dreams.”
-“That’s where I see you.”
-Until the fear of losing her became suffocating. She was an obsession, a drug he couldn’t stop taking now that he had gotten a hit. Nothing and no one would compare to her. No way in hell.”
June 5, 2025
Thank you to Love Notes Pr for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Once I cracked open Heir of Darkness, there was no going back—I was hooked from the very first page! ❤️🔥 This dark mafia romance by Lejla Muric is intense, emotional, and absolutely unputdownable.
The story follows Luna Kingsley and Valerio Vitali, heirs to two rival mafia empires. Luna has known her entire life that her marriage would be a transaction—a power move orchestrated by her father. But on her sixteenth birthday, in a haze of rebellion and wine, she drunkenly confesses to Valerio that she wants nothing to do with any arranged marriage. What she never saw coming? That he would be the man chosen for her. 😮💨
Now, seven years later, Valerio returns from exile... for her. But Luna isn’t the naive girl he left behind. She’s fierce, determined, and furious. She wants freedom—not a ring, and definitely not him. Yet despite her resistance, sparks fly, tempers flare, and the past refuses to stay buried. As secrets unravel and a shocking betrayal comes to light, Luna is forced to question everything she thought she knew—about her family, her future, and her heart.
💀 What I Loved:
Sizzling chemistry and electric tension between Luna and Valerio
A broody, obsessed, morally gray MMC who will burn the world for the woman he loves
Luna’s strength and resilience—she’s a fighter, not a pawn
The layered power dynamics, the sharp banter, and the emotional vulnerability beneath all the darkness
The plot twists. Just when I thought I had it figured out... BAM. Twists that hurt in the best way 😵💫
🖤 Tropes:
Dark mafia romance
Third-person POV
College setting
Arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
He falls first
"She’s mine" energy
Obsessive, possessive MMC
Rivals-to-lovers
Found family under fire
Intense spice + emotional slow burn
📝 A Few Notes:
The pacing is just right—tense and suspenseful without dragging. And while the mafia romance trope can sometimes feel overdone, Muric brings a fresh emotional depth and vulnerability to the characters that makes it really stand out. Luna and Valerio aren’t just surviving—they’re unraveling, rebuilding, and choosing each other in the chaos.
If you’re craving a dark romance that balances danger, longing, betrayal, and raw passion—Heir of Darkness is your next obsession. Mark your calendars—May 30th is coming fast, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this.
🖤 Huge thanks to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the ARC—I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series drops!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Once I cracked open Heir of Darkness, there was no going back—I was hooked from the very first page! ❤️🔥 This dark mafia romance by Lejla Muric is intense, emotional, and absolutely unputdownable.
The story follows Luna Kingsley and Valerio Vitali, heirs to two rival mafia empires. Luna has known her entire life that her marriage would be a transaction—a power move orchestrated by her father. But on her sixteenth birthday, in a haze of rebellion and wine, she drunkenly confesses to Valerio that she wants nothing to do with any arranged marriage. What she never saw coming? That he would be the man chosen for her. 😮💨
Now, seven years later, Valerio returns from exile... for her. But Luna isn’t the naive girl he left behind. She’s fierce, determined, and furious. She wants freedom—not a ring, and definitely not him. Yet despite her resistance, sparks fly, tempers flare, and the past refuses to stay buried. As secrets unravel and a shocking betrayal comes to light, Luna is forced to question everything she thought she knew—about her family, her future, and her heart.
💀 What I Loved:
Sizzling chemistry and electric tension between Luna and Valerio
A broody, obsessed, morally gray MMC who will burn the world for the woman he loves
Luna’s strength and resilience—she’s a fighter, not a pawn
The layered power dynamics, the sharp banter, and the emotional vulnerability beneath all the darkness
The plot twists. Just when I thought I had it figured out... BAM. Twists that hurt in the best way 😵💫
🖤 Tropes:
Dark mafia romance
Third-person POV
College setting
Arranged marriage
Enemies to lovers
He falls first
"She’s mine" energy
Obsessive, possessive MMC
Rivals-to-lovers
Found family under fire
Intense spice + emotional slow burn
📝 A Few Notes:
The pacing is just right—tense and suspenseful without dragging. And while the mafia romance trope can sometimes feel overdone, Muric brings a fresh emotional depth and vulnerability to the characters that makes it really stand out. Luna and Valerio aren’t just surviving—they’re unraveling, rebuilding, and choosing each other in the chaos.
If you’re craving a dark romance that balances danger, longing, betrayal, and raw passion—Heir of Darkness is your next obsession. Mark your calendars—May 30th is coming fast, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this.
🖤 Huge thanks to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the ARC—I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series drops!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
✨ARC review ✨
(Rounded up from 4.5 stars)
I don’t usually read mafia romances (I’ve read maybe 3 in the past 5 years), but I took a chance on this one and am so glad I did! This book was really fun and it leaned more into the romance elements than the mafia side, so it could be a great gateway into the genre if you’re on the fence.
Heir of Darkness opens with 16-year old Luna drunkenly confessing to Valerio, the son of the rival mafia family, that her worst nightmare is being forced into an arranged, loveless marriage. By the end of the night, she has been signed into a marriage contract with none other than Valerio himself. Now, seven years later, Valerio has returned from a prolonged absence and Luna has to choose between fighting for her freedom or giving into what her family wants.
Part of the reason that I’ve never been super attracted to mafia romances is that I find arranged marriage tropes to feel extremely icky, but the way that this one played out wasn’t a problem for me. Luna and Valerio’s relationship developed in a way that felt relatively believable (albeit quite fast…) and I was genuinely rooting for them.
I think that setting this book amongst college students made the mafia elements feel a little silly, but it really worked for me (probably because I’m not super into this genre and tend to shy away from the darker stuff). It tiptoed just far enough into being unbelievable that I was able to suspend my disbelief and just enjoy the ride. The characters were fun, the romance was engaging, and the chemistry between the main couple was palpable.
My main complaint is that the plot pacing felt a little off and the conflict resolution was too fast. This book definitely focused more on characters and relationships than plot, but the plot still took up a lot of page time, so it being rushed in the end was disappointing. I would’ve loved to see the climax drag out a little bit to really make the story feel worth it. I know that future books are going to focus on different couples in the friend group, but I hope that the plot still ties into what this book was about.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book and highly recommend it to anyone who is new to mafia romance and wants a light entry into the subgenre!
(Rounded up from 4.5 stars)
I don’t usually read mafia romances (I’ve read maybe 3 in the past 5 years), but I took a chance on this one and am so glad I did! This book was really fun and it leaned more into the romance elements than the mafia side, so it could be a great gateway into the genre if you’re on the fence.
Heir of Darkness opens with 16-year old Luna drunkenly confessing to Valerio, the son of the rival mafia family, that her worst nightmare is being forced into an arranged, loveless marriage. By the end of the night, she has been signed into a marriage contract with none other than Valerio himself. Now, seven years later, Valerio has returned from a prolonged absence and Luna has to choose between fighting for her freedom or giving into what her family wants.
Part of the reason that I’ve never been super attracted to mafia romances is that I find arranged marriage tropes to feel extremely icky, but the way that this one played out wasn’t a problem for me. Luna and Valerio’s relationship developed in a way that felt relatively believable (albeit quite fast…) and I was genuinely rooting for them.
I think that setting this book amongst college students made the mafia elements feel a little silly, but it really worked for me (probably because I’m not super into this genre and tend to shy away from the darker stuff). It tiptoed just far enough into being unbelievable that I was able to suspend my disbelief and just enjoy the ride. The characters were fun, the romance was engaging, and the chemistry between the main couple was palpable.
My main complaint is that the plot pacing felt a little off and the conflict resolution was too fast. This book definitely focused more on characters and relationships than plot, but the plot still took up a lot of page time, so it being rushed in the end was disappointing. I would’ve loved to see the climax drag out a little bit to really make the story feel worth it. I know that future books are going to focus on different couples in the friend group, but I hope that the plot still ties into what this book was about.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book and highly recommend it to anyone who is new to mafia romance and wants a light entry into the subgenre!
June 1, 2025
What it’s about…
Luna Kingsley was groomed to be forced into an arranged marriage. But on her sixteenth birthday she drunkenly admitted to the son of the rival mafia family, Valerio Vitali, that she did not want to be forced into a marriage contract, little did she know he would be the one throwing her headfirst into one.
Luna had seven years of peace while Valerio was in Italy. Only now he is back looking to claim her as his and he is determined not to let her go, only she wants nothing to do with him. Struggling against her feelings and her desire for freedom, Luna is ready to make her decision when the true monsters reveal themselves, but is it too late in the war waging between the rival families.
My thoughts…
This book gives modern Romeo and Juliet vibes with the rival mafia, but with an arranged marriage to the highest bidder. Luna’s world revolves around acting as the dutiful daughter in society, however while she is around Valerio, she can’t help but let the mask slip and let him see her true feelings, with most revolving around not wanting to be anywhere near him.
Valerio is everything for a mafia man, he falls first and is romantic but he is willing to burn the world down for her - there is a touch her and die moment, total bada**. The tension between the two is fantastic, there are a couple of half open door scenes, there is just enough detail without being overly graphical.
There was a little disappointment towards the end with a slight twist. I really wanted to have a you go girl take your power/control into your own hands - get your revenge but it also worked for the storyline, I really wanted our girl to step up.
I enjoyed the pace of this book, it was easy to read and there was humour throughout the book. I feel like while we were learning Luna and Valerio’s story we were also getting glimpses of the other characters and the world they live in, so there maybe more books and if there are Lejia PLEASE PLEASE give us a scene around The Chase, I would eat that up!!
— thank you to Lejla Muric and Love Notes PR for the e-arc to review!
Luna Kingsley was groomed to be forced into an arranged marriage. But on her sixteenth birthday she drunkenly admitted to the son of the rival mafia family, Valerio Vitali, that she did not want to be forced into a marriage contract, little did she know he would be the one throwing her headfirst into one.
Luna had seven years of peace while Valerio was in Italy. Only now he is back looking to claim her as his and he is determined not to let her go, only she wants nothing to do with him. Struggling against her feelings and her desire for freedom, Luna is ready to make her decision when the true monsters reveal themselves, but is it too late in the war waging between the rival families.
My thoughts…
This book gives modern Romeo and Juliet vibes with the rival mafia, but with an arranged marriage to the highest bidder. Luna’s world revolves around acting as the dutiful daughter in society, however while she is around Valerio, she can’t help but let the mask slip and let him see her true feelings, with most revolving around not wanting to be anywhere near him.
Valerio is everything for a mafia man, he falls first and is romantic but he is willing to burn the world down for her - there is a touch her and die moment, total bada**. The tension between the two is fantastic, there are a couple of half open door scenes, there is just enough detail without being overly graphical.
There was a little disappointment towards the end with a slight twist. I really wanted to have a you go girl take your power/control into your own hands - get your revenge but it also worked for the storyline, I really wanted our girl to step up.
I enjoyed the pace of this book, it was easy to read and there was humour throughout the book. I feel like while we were learning Luna and Valerio’s story we were also getting glimpses of the other characters and the world they live in, so there maybe more books and if there are Lejia PLEASE PLEASE give us a scene around The Chase, I would eat that up!!
— thank you to Lejla Muric and Love Notes PR for the e-arc to review!
June 5, 2025
When I first picked up Heir of Darkness, I honestly didn’t expect to like it. The prologue was written in third person point of view, and that immediately made me lose a bit of interest. I usually connect more with first-person stories, and the way it started didn’t pull me in. But I kept reading—and I’m so glad I did.
This book turned out to be one of the most addictive stories I’ve read in a long time. I finished it in a single day because I just couldn’t put it down. The plot, the emotions, and especially the characters completely drew me in.
Let me talk about that male lead. He is the standard. His loyalty, his love, and his commitment to the main character were unmatched. Even after moving away to Italy for seven whole years, he stayed faithful to her—not just in heart, but physically too. He waited for her, patiently, because he couldn’t imagine her being with anyone else. And when he came back, he was ready to win her over, but not by force—he did it with gentleness, with respect, and with love. He helped free her from everything that held her back, and when she needed someone to catch her, he was right there. Honestly, every girl deserves a guy like that.
Their romance was beautiful. And I was so happy they got together early on (around the middle of the book), but I also got nervous—because there was still a lot of the book left. I kept wondering, what’s going to go wrong? The answer? Nothing major. And while that was kind of a relief, I have to admit that the last 100 pages started to feel a bit slow. It wasn’t bad—it just lost the strong spark the earlier parts had. I didn’t feel as connected to the final parts of the story.
Still, the book left me curious—especially about the side characters. Dante, the male lead’s brother, really stood out to me. I want to know his story. I want to understand his pain and what he’s gone through. I have a feeling the next book might focus on Finn, but personally, I’m hoping for Dante. I need more of him.
Overall, Air of Darkness was a surprising and amazing read. It had heart, depth, and a love story that felt truly special. Even with its slower ending, I’d definitely recommend it.
This book turned out to be one of the most addictive stories I’ve read in a long time. I finished it in a single day because I just couldn’t put it down. The plot, the emotions, and especially the characters completely drew me in.
Let me talk about that male lead. He is the standard. His loyalty, his love, and his commitment to the main character were unmatched. Even after moving away to Italy for seven whole years, he stayed faithful to her—not just in heart, but physically too. He waited for her, patiently, because he couldn’t imagine her being with anyone else. And when he came back, he was ready to win her over, but not by force—he did it with gentleness, with respect, and with love. He helped free her from everything that held her back, and when she needed someone to catch her, he was right there. Honestly, every girl deserves a guy like that.
Their romance was beautiful. And I was so happy they got together early on (around the middle of the book), but I also got nervous—because there was still a lot of the book left. I kept wondering, what’s going to go wrong? The answer? Nothing major. And while that was kind of a relief, I have to admit that the last 100 pages started to feel a bit slow. It wasn’t bad—it just lost the strong spark the earlier parts had. I didn’t feel as connected to the final parts of the story.
Still, the book left me curious—especially about the side characters. Dante, the male lead’s brother, really stood out to me. I want to know his story. I want to understand his pain and what he’s gone through. I have a feeling the next book might focus on Finn, but personally, I’m hoping for Dante. I need more of him.
Overall, Air of Darkness was a surprising and amazing read. It had heart, depth, and a love story that felt truly special. Even with its slower ending, I’d definitely recommend it.
June 6, 2025
⭐️ - 4/5
🌶️ - 3.5/5
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the ARC of Heir of Darkness in exchange for an honest review!
If you’re into dark, intense mafia romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of spice—this book delivers.
Luna’s future has never been her own. Promised to a man for political gain, she’s spent years bracing for a life she never wanted. But when Valerio Vitali reenters the picture—the boy who broke her heart years ago, now transformed into a ruthless and powerful force—everything she thought she accepted starts to unravel.
The tension between Luna and Valerio is sharp, passionate, and so well-paced. Their relationship is messy and complex, built on betrayal, power plays, and undeniable chemistry. It walks the line between love and obsession in a way that feels gripping rather than cliché.
What I really appreciated was how fast the plot moved without losing emotional depth. The world is violent, dangerous, and full of secrets—but the heart of the story is about reclaiming power, confronting trauma, and finding love in the unlikeliest places. Muric does an incredible job balancing the darker themes with moments of softness and vulnerability, especially through Luna’s character. She’s resilient, layered, and easy to root for.
Valerio, on the other hand, is intense—equal parts infuriating and magnetic. He’s a character you want to yell at and swoon over at the same time.
There’s a good bit of heat in this one, and it’s written in a way that feels earned. The smut scenes aren’t just filler—they push the story forward and reveal more about the characters’ emotional states.
My only wish was for a few scenes to slow down just enough to let some of those big emotional moments fully land. The fast pace works for the genre, but a breath here and there would’ve deepened the impact.
Still, Heir of Darkness is a gripping read that fans of mafia romance will absolutely devour. Raw, emotional, and full of bite—this story stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
🌶️ - 3.5/5
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the ARC of Heir of Darkness in exchange for an honest review!
If you’re into dark, intense mafia romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of spice—this book delivers.
Luna’s future has never been her own. Promised to a man for political gain, she’s spent years bracing for a life she never wanted. But when Valerio Vitali reenters the picture—the boy who broke her heart years ago, now transformed into a ruthless and powerful force—everything she thought she accepted starts to unravel.
The tension between Luna and Valerio is sharp, passionate, and so well-paced. Their relationship is messy and complex, built on betrayal, power plays, and undeniable chemistry. It walks the line between love and obsession in a way that feels gripping rather than cliché.
What I really appreciated was how fast the plot moved without losing emotional depth. The world is violent, dangerous, and full of secrets—but the heart of the story is about reclaiming power, confronting trauma, and finding love in the unlikeliest places. Muric does an incredible job balancing the darker themes with moments of softness and vulnerability, especially through Luna’s character. She’s resilient, layered, and easy to root for.
Valerio, on the other hand, is intense—equal parts infuriating and magnetic. He’s a character you want to yell at and swoon over at the same time.
There’s a good bit of heat in this one, and it’s written in a way that feels earned. The smut scenes aren’t just filler—they push the story forward and reveal more about the characters’ emotional states.
My only wish was for a few scenes to slow down just enough to let some of those big emotional moments fully land. The fast pace works for the genre, but a breath here and there would’ve deepened the impact.
Still, Heir of Darkness is a gripping read that fans of mafia romance will absolutely devour. Raw, emotional, and full of bite—this story stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
May 22, 2025
🌙 Dark Romance
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🌙 Rival Mafia Families
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🌙 Praise and Primal Kinks
🖤 College Setting
🌙 He calls her "my little moon"
🖤 He would 🔥 the world down for her
🌙 3rd Person POV
🌙 Releases May 30th 🖤
I was given the opportunity to read this advanced readers copy of "Heir of Darkness" by Lejla Muric by #lovenotespr. I am very thankful for the opportunity and in return, I was asked for an honest review and support through my social media platforms. This book was a first book by Lejla for me and not my last. Any mafia style/secret society vibe dark romance is hook line sinker and add in possessive kinks and writing skills with the sprinkle of smutty spice made me really enjoy this book a lot.
The books starts off as a blast from the past and Luna Kingsley at sixteen in a intoxicated state says something that to a rival mafia family heir, Valerio Vitali and he makes it his mission to make the deal that seals their fates and comes back seven years later to collect. Luna HATES Valerio; legit loathes and makes for ansty banter that makes any girls 💧.
Lejla writing style is what I also enjoy most, she is hands down a plotter and in dark romance, there is always mlre books behind a plotter and she did very well building out Luna and Valerio characters and at times, yes Luna was needy but its what made her also stand out and his little moon. Now the third act in Heir of Darkness does make you spin a little so hold onto the wild ride.
There is characters you want to trust but words and actions speak to their true nature so be prepared for that. But within the danger, these two really come together and stand by the ststement love conquers all as long as you let it in. Im hoping for Allister or Gianna's story within the series but time will tell.
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🌙 Rival Mafia Families
🖤 Obsessive MMC
🌙 Praise and Primal Kinks
🖤 College Setting
🌙 He calls her "my little moon"
🖤 He would 🔥 the world down for her
🌙 3rd Person POV
🌙 Releases May 30th 🖤
I was given the opportunity to read this advanced readers copy of "Heir of Darkness" by Lejla Muric by #lovenotespr. I am very thankful for the opportunity and in return, I was asked for an honest review and support through my social media platforms. This book was a first book by Lejla for me and not my last. Any mafia style/secret society vibe dark romance is hook line sinker and add in possessive kinks and writing skills with the sprinkle of smutty spice made me really enjoy this book a lot.
The books starts off as a blast from the past and Luna Kingsley at sixteen in a intoxicated state says something that to a rival mafia family heir, Valerio Vitali and he makes it his mission to make the deal that seals their fates and comes back seven years later to collect. Luna HATES Valerio; legit loathes and makes for ansty banter that makes any girls 💧.
Lejla writing style is what I also enjoy most, she is hands down a plotter and in dark romance, there is always mlre books behind a plotter and she did very well building out Luna and Valerio characters and at times, yes Luna was needy but its what made her also stand out and his little moon. Now the third act in Heir of Darkness does make you spin a little so hold onto the wild ride.
There is characters you want to trust but words and actions speak to their true nature so be prepared for that. But within the danger, these two really come together and stand by the ststement love conquers all as long as you let it in. Im hoping for Allister or Gianna's story within the series but time will tell.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
🌹 Heir of Darkness by 🌹
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This book consumed me. I devoured every page, completely pulled into the storm that is Valerio and Luna. It’s everything I crave in a mafia romance: obsessive love, high stakes, dangerous devotion, and the kind of tension that makes you forget reality exists.
"For years I observed and memorized the way your eyes narrow when you’re mad or how when you're surprised your mouth drops open, or how when you’re nervous you chew on the inside of your lips. You’ve been mine since the moment I laid my eyes on you, but I can play along. If you need to pretend you don’t care about me anymore so you can prove a point, then go ahead. But I won’t pretend. You’re mine, Luna. With this engagement intact or not.”
That quote wrecked me. It’s Valerio at his core—possessive, unrelenting, and heart-achingly vulnerable. His obsession with Luna walks the line between terrifying and tender, and I loved every second of it. He doesn't play games. He knows what he wants and will burn the world down to have her.
Luna is fierce in her own way—scared, yet unwilling to settle. Her growth, her pushback, her eventual surrender to what she truly feels—it all made their dynamic feel electric.
The plot is gripping, the romance is sizzling, and the emotional beats hit exactly where they should. I adored their messy, passionate love. Their little found family dynamic? Adorable. Their chemistry? Off the charts.
This isn’t just a mafia romance—it’s an emotional war zone with heart.
I highly recommend it to anyone who loves:
🫶🏻Obsessive MMCs
🫶🏻He Falls First
🫶🏻Forced Proximity & Arranged Marriage
🫶🏻“You’re mine” energy that feels like a threat and a promise
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This book consumed me. I devoured every page, completely pulled into the storm that is Valerio and Luna. It’s everything I crave in a mafia romance: obsessive love, high stakes, dangerous devotion, and the kind of tension that makes you forget reality exists.
"For years I observed and memorized the way your eyes narrow when you’re mad or how when you're surprised your mouth drops open, or how when you’re nervous you chew on the inside of your lips. You’ve been mine since the moment I laid my eyes on you, but I can play along. If you need to pretend you don’t care about me anymore so you can prove a point, then go ahead. But I won’t pretend. You’re mine, Luna. With this engagement intact or not.”
That quote wrecked me. It’s Valerio at his core—possessive, unrelenting, and heart-achingly vulnerable. His obsession with Luna walks the line between terrifying and tender, and I loved every second of it. He doesn't play games. He knows what he wants and will burn the world down to have her.
Luna is fierce in her own way—scared, yet unwilling to settle. Her growth, her pushback, her eventual surrender to what she truly feels—it all made their dynamic feel electric.
The plot is gripping, the romance is sizzling, and the emotional beats hit exactly where they should. I adored their messy, passionate love. Their little found family dynamic? Adorable. Their chemistry? Off the charts.
This isn’t just a mafia romance—it’s an emotional war zone with heart.
I highly recommend it to anyone who loves:
🫶🏻Obsessive MMCs
🫶🏻He Falls First
🫶🏻Forced Proximity & Arranged Marriage
🫶🏻“You’re mine” energy that feels like a threat and a promise
May 31, 2025
thank you to LoveNotes PR and Lejla Muric for a chance to read this ARC 🫶🏼
im definitely a sucker for an arranged marriage mafia romance and this one definitely hit the spot
the chemistry between Luna and Valerio was chefs kiss and just chaotically beautiful
I didn’t completely love Luna’s character and her personality but otherwise this book was phenomenal
Valerio is obsessed, caring, intense, and touch her and ☠️ vibes, what else would you want?
just a note that it is written in third person, but i got used to it really quickly
This was honestly just the most perfect mafia romance: messy, obsessive, slow burn, frustrating, and the perfect amount of tension. the plot was gripping from the start and romance was sensational
also ‘little moon’ 🥹 stOp it
this was an amazing start to a mafia series and i can’t wait to read about the next heir
and a quote that shattered my heart:
“All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but to me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up the people around you. And even though for most of my life I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shined a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, and cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next, you will forever be mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.” 🥺🥺
im definitely a sucker for an arranged marriage mafia romance and this one definitely hit the spot
the chemistry between Luna and Valerio was chefs kiss and just chaotically beautiful
I didn’t completely love Luna’s character and her personality but otherwise this book was phenomenal
Valerio is obsessed, caring, intense, and touch her and ☠️ vibes, what else would you want?
just a note that it is written in third person, but i got used to it really quickly
This was honestly just the most perfect mafia romance: messy, obsessive, slow burn, frustrating, and the perfect amount of tension. the plot was gripping from the start and romance was sensational
also ‘little moon’ 🥹 stOp it
this was an amazing start to a mafia series and i can’t wait to read about the next heir
and a quote that shattered my heart:
“All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but to me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up the people around you. And even though for most of my life I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shined a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, and cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next, you will forever be mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.” 🥺🥺
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2025
Heir of Darkness by Lejla Muric is an engaging mafia romance that blends tension, power struggles, and forbidden attraction. The story follows Luna Kingsley, a woman bound by an arranged marriage she never wanted. On her sixteenth birthday, she drunkenly confesses her desire to escape such a fate to Valerio Vitali, the son of a rival mafia family. Unexpectedly, he becomes the very person to seal her into a marriage contract. Seven years later, Valerio returns, determined to claim his fiancée, but Luna is unwilling to surrender to the life she never chose.
The novel thrives on the charged chemistry between Luna and Valerio, crafting a dynamic built on resistance, obsession, and attraction. While their relationship is compelling, the story leans more into their emotional battle than the gritty mafia elements. The premise promises angst, tension, and high stakes, but the execution doesn’t fully tap into its potential.
Luna is shown as strong-willed, torn between loyalty to herself and the expectations placed upon her, while Valerio is relentless, embodying both danger and devotion. Their initial encounters brim with unpredictability and emotional intensity, but the slow-burn tension quickly fizzles out as events unfold too rapidly. The climax, despite the buildup, feels underwhelming, lacking the wow factor and delivering predictable twists.
Despite these shortcomings, Heir of Darkness remains an engaging read for those who enjoy high-stakes romance, morally gray characters, and fiery interactions.
The novel thrives on the charged chemistry between Luna and Valerio, crafting a dynamic built on resistance, obsession, and attraction. While their relationship is compelling, the story leans more into their emotional battle than the gritty mafia elements. The premise promises angst, tension, and high stakes, but the execution doesn’t fully tap into its potential.
Luna is shown as strong-willed, torn between loyalty to herself and the expectations placed upon her, while Valerio is relentless, embodying both danger and devotion. Their initial encounters brim with unpredictability and emotional intensity, but the slow-burn tension quickly fizzles out as events unfold too rapidly. The climax, despite the buildup, feels underwhelming, lacking the wow factor and delivering predictable twists.
Despite these shortcomings, Heir of Darkness remains an engaging read for those who enjoy high-stakes romance, morally gray characters, and fiery interactions.
May 21, 2025
Once I started reading this dark mafia romance by Lejla Muric, I couldn’t put it down!❤️🔥😅
Heir of Darkness follows Luna Kingsley and Valerio Vitali, the children of rival mafia families. Luna knew from a young age that she would be forced into an arranged marriage.....one that would benefit her father. However, on her sixteenth birthday, while drunk, she confides in Valerio that she wants no part of any marriage contracts. What she never expected was that he would be the one she’d be engaged to.🖤
After being gone for seven years, Valerio returns.......for Luna. But she wants nothing to do with him and hates him for putting her in this situation. All she wants in life is the freedom to make her own choices. Caught in a battle between her desire for independence and her growing feelings, Luna faces unexpected events that change everything, and reveal a shocking truth that will alter her future forever.😏
I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the next in the series! If you’re a fan of dark mafia romance with sizzling chemistry and sharp banter, this one is for you. Be sure to mark your calendars....Heir of Darkness releases on May 30th!🙌🏼
Tropes: dark mafia romance, third-person POV, college setting, obsessed MMC, morally gray MMC, enemies to lovers, rival mafia families, arranged marriage, spice, he falls first, “she’s mine”🥵
Huge thanks to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the opportunity to review this ARC!❤️
Heir of Darkness follows Luna Kingsley and Valerio Vitali, the children of rival mafia families. Luna knew from a young age that she would be forced into an arranged marriage.....one that would benefit her father. However, on her sixteenth birthday, while drunk, she confides in Valerio that she wants no part of any marriage contracts. What she never expected was that he would be the one she’d be engaged to.🖤
After being gone for seven years, Valerio returns.......for Luna. But she wants nothing to do with him and hates him for putting her in this situation. All she wants in life is the freedom to make her own choices. Caught in a battle between her desire for independence and her growing feelings, Luna faces unexpected events that change everything, and reveal a shocking truth that will alter her future forever.😏
I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the next in the series! If you’re a fan of dark mafia romance with sizzling chemistry and sharp banter, this one is for you. Be sure to mark your calendars....Heir of Darkness releases on May 30th!🙌🏼
Tropes: dark mafia romance, third-person POV, college setting, obsessed MMC, morally gray MMC, enemies to lovers, rival mafia families, arranged marriage, spice, he falls first, “she’s mine”🥵
Huge thanks to Love Notes PR and Lejla Muric for the opportunity to review this ARC!❤️
May 30, 2025
OMGGG if I say I’m in love with this book, it would be an understatement. I’m so down bad for it… just like Valerio was for Luna 😭🖤 THIS BOOK HAD ME IN A CHOKEHOLD FROM CHAPTER ONE. I couldn’t put it down.
Luna Kingsley was raised to be the perfect bride, primed and polished so her father could marry her off to the highest bidder 💔 But Luna? She’s a dreamer. All she ever wanted was to live her life on her own terms 💫
Then enters Valerio Vitali—heir to the biggest mafia empire, a cold-hearted monster everyone fears. He doesn’t do emotions. Doesn’t do love.
But for Luna? He’d burn the world down and hand her the ashes.
He was so obsessed with her I was SCREAMING. This man??? Down bad isn’t even the word. He was on his knees for her and she didn’t even blink 😭🛐
Luna despises him.
Valerio is utterly consumed by her.
And the way he loves her obsessively, relentlessly, almost reverently, left me breathless.
Tropes you’ll be obsessed with: 💍 Arranged Marriage
🔫 Rival Families
🖤 Mafia Romance
😤 Enemies to... something much hotter
🔥 He Falls First (and HARD)
😩 Obsessive MMC
🫣 Both Virgins (yes, yes, YESSSS)
This book had EVERYTHING I love in a dark romance.
Drama. Tension. Passion. Possession.
Valerio and Luna live rent-free in my head now, and I’m not even mad about it.
If you're looking for a mafia romance that hits HARD and leaves you sobbing and simping?
This. Is. It.
Go read it NOW, bestie. You won’t survive but you’ll thank me later 💋
Luna Kingsley was raised to be the perfect bride, primed and polished so her father could marry her off to the highest bidder 💔 But Luna? She’s a dreamer. All she ever wanted was to live her life on her own terms 💫
Then enters Valerio Vitali—heir to the biggest mafia empire, a cold-hearted monster everyone fears. He doesn’t do emotions. Doesn’t do love.
But for Luna? He’d burn the world down and hand her the ashes.
He was so obsessed with her I was SCREAMING. This man??? Down bad isn’t even the word. He was on his knees for her and she didn’t even blink 😭🛐
Luna despises him.
Valerio is utterly consumed by her.
And the way he loves her obsessively, relentlessly, almost reverently, left me breathless.
Tropes you’ll be obsessed with: 💍 Arranged Marriage
🔫 Rival Families
🖤 Mafia Romance
😤 Enemies to... something much hotter
🔥 He Falls First (and HARD)
😩 Obsessive MMC
🫣 Both Virgins (yes, yes, YESSSS)
This book had EVERYTHING I love in a dark romance.
Drama. Tension. Passion. Possession.
Valerio and Luna live rent-free in my head now, and I’m not even mad about it.
If you're looking for a mafia romance that hits HARD and leaves you sobbing and simping?
This. Is. It.
Go read it NOW, bestie. You won’t survive but you’ll thank me later 💋
June 3, 2025
Heir of Darkness is well written, flowed well with the characters and their growth throughout the story.
Sometimes it's hard to put into words what you want to say with a review. So I am going to use my favorite part of the book to get you to fall in love as well.
“All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but t0 me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up people around you. And even though for the most of my life, I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shine a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is to love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, to cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next you will forever by mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.”
Two young kids meet, she is supposed to be married off at 16, he steps up and says he will marry her to save her, he waits 7 years before he comes back and claim what is his. Valeria Vitali has his hands full with Luna, she doesn't want to be married, family issues, Mafia Issues, Will these two share the Vows that two 16 yr olds said they would?
Sometimes it's hard to put into words what you want to say with a review. So I am going to use my favorite part of the book to get you to fall in love as well.
“All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but t0 me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up people around you. And even though for the most of my life, I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shine a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is to love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, to cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next you will forever by mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.”
Two young kids meet, she is supposed to be married off at 16, he steps up and says he will marry her to save her, he waits 7 years before he comes back and claim what is his. Valeria Vitali has his hands full with Luna, she doesn't want to be married, family issues, Mafia Issues, Will these two share the Vows that two 16 yr olds said they would?
June 5, 2025
ARC Review💍
✨This book had me in a chokehold from page one.
🖤Heir of Darkness is everything I crave in a dark romance: enemies-to-lovers tension, an arranged marriage twist, a morally gray heir, and a fmc who refuses to go down without a fight. Luna is fierce, complicated, and so easy to root for. Valerio? Obsessive, ruthless, and absolutely unforgettable. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥
🤌🏽I loved how Lejla Muric layered the emotional stakes alongside the brutal realities of the mafia world. Every scene between Luna and Valerio crackled with tension, equal parts frustration, longing, and buried history. 🤭And the twists?? I did NOT see them coming.
🫶🏽Seriously though, the book great. Luna Kingsley is a strong, complex fmc, torn between her desire for freedom and the chains of a world she never chose🥹. Valerio is the perfect dark, possessive anti-hero, and his return to claim Luna sets off a rollercoaster of emotions that had me turning pages at 2am. ⭐️Cannot wait for what comes next!
🫠By the time I reached the last page, I was emotionally destroyed—in the best way. If you’re into dark romance with strong character arcs, high stakes, and a touch of heartbreak, this one needs to be on your TBR.🙌🏽
Thank you to the Author Lejla Muric and LoveNotesPR for the opportunity to read this ARC!🖤
✨This book had me in a chokehold from page one.
🖤Heir of Darkness is everything I crave in a dark romance: enemies-to-lovers tension, an arranged marriage twist, a morally gray heir, and a fmc who refuses to go down without a fight. Luna is fierce, complicated, and so easy to root for. Valerio? Obsessive, ruthless, and absolutely unforgettable. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥
🤌🏽I loved how Lejla Muric layered the emotional stakes alongside the brutal realities of the mafia world. Every scene between Luna and Valerio crackled with tension, equal parts frustration, longing, and buried history. 🤭And the twists?? I did NOT see them coming.
🫶🏽Seriously though, the book great. Luna Kingsley is a strong, complex fmc, torn between her desire for freedom and the chains of a world she never chose🥹. Valerio is the perfect dark, possessive anti-hero, and his return to claim Luna sets off a rollercoaster of emotions that had me turning pages at 2am. ⭐️Cannot wait for what comes next!
🫠By the time I reached the last page, I was emotionally destroyed—in the best way. If you’re into dark romance with strong character arcs, high stakes, and a touch of heartbreak, this one needs to be on your TBR.🙌🏽
Thank you to the Author Lejla Muric and LoveNotesPR for the opportunity to read this ARC!🖤
June 6, 2025
*thanks to Love Notes PR and the author for the e-arc!*
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
He falls first
Mafia romance
College romance
This book gave me Rina Kent vibes, if you have read the Legacy of Gods series you’ll see it too!
This book starts off with Luna fighting the marriage contract that would bring two rival families together. She wants to live her life and make choices for herself and Valerio just wants her.
I liked how obsessed Valerio is with Luna, taking care of her even through the years she wanted nothing to do with him.
He also is quite the romantic: “All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but to me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up the people around you. And even though for most of my life I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shined a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, and cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next, you will forever be mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.”
I will keep up with the other books that are released!
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
He falls first
Mafia romance
College romance
This book gave me Rina Kent vibes, if you have read the Legacy of Gods series you’ll see it too!
This book starts off with Luna fighting the marriage contract that would bring two rival families together. She wants to live her life and make choices for herself and Valerio just wants her.
I liked how obsessed Valerio is with Luna, taking care of her even through the years she wanted nothing to do with him.
He also is quite the romantic: “All it takes is one person who sees you for who you are, for who you want to be, to change your mind on love. You’ve always been compared to the moon, but to me, you’ve always felt like the sun. A body of light that warms up the people around you. And even though for most of my life I was lost in a labyrinth of darkness, you came and shined a pathway leading me out. I have done so much wrong in my life, but by far the greatest thing I have ever done in my life is love you. Everything I am, everything I want to be, is for you. I vow to protect you, to honor you, and cherish you every moment for the rest of my life. In this lifetime, and the next, you will forever be mine, and I yours. I love you, Luna.”
I will keep up with the other books that are released!
June 2, 2025
ARC Review:
As I have mentioned before, I LOVE a book series because I get so invested in the characters in the story and just want to learn more about each character.
This in Book 1 of a new series by Lejla Muric, and this is my first time reading anything by this author It follows the story of Valerio and Luna, starting from their first real meeting at 17 & 16, and then fast forwards seven years later. This is a mafia-type book where arranged marriages are the norm as a way to solidify family & business relationships. The story also introduces us to Luna's three best friends, her brother, and Valerio's brother, cousin, and best friend - which I expect will all get stories throughout this series.
I was definitely surprised about various things throughout this story as it did not, in my opinion, follow the tradition mafia story line. Valerio surprised me throughout, and Luna's growth was also a surprise. Often in mafia books the girl is surprised by everything involved in the life, but in this case, Luna comes from the same world so she is able to understand Valerio & his decisions quite quickly. She also finds her voice and becomes an integral part of the decisions.
I look forward to seeing these two throughout the future books!
As I have mentioned before, I LOVE a book series because I get so invested in the characters in the story and just want to learn more about each character.
This in Book 1 of a new series by Lejla Muric, and this is my first time reading anything by this author It follows the story of Valerio and Luna, starting from their first real meeting at 17 & 16, and then fast forwards seven years later. This is a mafia-type book where arranged marriages are the norm as a way to solidify family & business relationships. The story also introduces us to Luna's three best friends, her brother, and Valerio's brother, cousin, and best friend - which I expect will all get stories throughout this series.
I was definitely surprised about various things throughout this story as it did not, in my opinion, follow the tradition mafia story line. Valerio surprised me throughout, and Luna's growth was also a surprise. Often in mafia books the girl is surprised by everything involved in the life, but in this case, Luna comes from the same world so she is able to understand Valerio & his decisions quite quickly. She also finds her voice and becomes an integral part of the decisions.
I look forward to seeing these two throughout the future books!
May 26, 2025
❣ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
❣ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - 30 May 2025
❣ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- arranged marriage
- enemies to lovers
- mafia romance
- possessive mmc
- interconnected standalone
- college setting
❣ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Thank you so much LovenotesPr and Author for the free ARC!
I went into Heir of Darkness expecting a typical arranged marriage mafia plot, but Lejla Muric added a twisted charm to it that kept me hooked. Luna and Valerio have that fiery, chaotic chemistry that never lets up even when they're at each other's throats. I loved how their past came back to bite, forcing them into a relationship neither of them fully understood yet couldn’t escape. Valerio is that kind of MMC obsessed, intense, and infuriating in the best way. And Luna is a mix of soft strength and quiet rebellion. Their dynamic wasn’t insta-love, which I appreciated. It was messy, frustrating, slow-burny, and at times, straight-up dark. One thing though it's written in third person POV, which took me a while to get used to. That’s honestly why it’s a 4-star read for me instead of 5. But the emotional depth and tension still hit hard. Solid start to a mafia series, and yes I’m coming for the next Heir!
❣ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - 30 May 2025
❣ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- arranged marriage
- enemies to lovers
- mafia romance
- possessive mmc
- interconnected standalone
- college setting
❣ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Thank you so much LovenotesPr and Author for the free ARC!
I went into Heir of Darkness expecting a typical arranged marriage mafia plot, but Lejla Muric added a twisted charm to it that kept me hooked. Luna and Valerio have that fiery, chaotic chemistry that never lets up even when they're at each other's throats. I loved how their past came back to bite, forcing them into a relationship neither of them fully understood yet couldn’t escape. Valerio is that kind of MMC obsessed, intense, and infuriating in the best way. And Luna is a mix of soft strength and quiet rebellion. Their dynamic wasn’t insta-love, which I appreciated. It was messy, frustrating, slow-burny, and at times, straight-up dark. One thing though it's written in third person POV, which took me a while to get used to. That’s honestly why it’s a 4-star read for me instead of 5. But the emotional depth and tension still hit hard. Solid start to a mafia series, and yes I’m coming for the next Heir!
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