Oath of Fire

Bound by Blood #2

by Jennifer Smith

Alessandro Moretti is a ruthless mafia underboss. Elena is a broken princess used as a pawn in an arranged marriage alliance. This dark, forbidden romance ignites a fiery war between two powerful Italian families. She was meant to be a quiet wife, but he demands a queen who will fight for her place. Now, he’ll burn the world to protect the wife he claimed.

Elena grew up being told to Obey her father. Obey the rules. Obey the life she never chose. So when she’s handed to Alessandro—the feared second-in-command of the Italian mafia—she expects another man who wants a silent, pretty wife who won’t cause trouble.

But Alessandro sees past the mask she wears. Past the fear she hides. He sees a fire she was never allowed to use, and he wants every scorched, beautiful piece of her. What begins as an arranged marriage meant to unite two families turns into something far more dangerous. The moment Elena begins to find her voice, a violent betrayal from her own family breaks the alliance and someone comes for her. She proves she’s no pawn, she is Moretti. She is fire. She is his.

Now Alessandro will tear apart the city and make them bleed for touching his wife.

219 pages, Paperback

Published December 18, 2025

About the author

I live in a beautiful river town in North Carolina with my husband, kids, in-laws and fur babies. I love to travel and books. If I am not reading one I am writing one. I love how a book can give you an escape from our normal world. You can be anywhere and become anyone.

I want anyone reading one of my books to remember this....
you are worthy, you are loved, you are wanted!

Reviews

[Megan🦋]

Oath of Fire by Jennifer Smith is an engaging and heartfelt fantasy that blends rich world-building with compelling characters. The adventure kept me turning pages, and the emotional stakes felt real. A few plot beats were predictable, but overall it’s a thoroughly enjoyable and immersive read that fans of character-driven fantasy will love.

[Holli D.W.]

Oath of Fire is the 2nd story in the Bound in Blood series. We met Alessandro Moretti in book one, and although we didn’t get to know him well- we learned that he is loyal to the core and would do anything for the family.

This story opens up with Elena Volkov, the daughter of a Russian crime boss, being prepared for her arranged marriage to Alessandro. Her father wants to use her as a bridge, to form/keep an alliance between the Volkov and Moretti families.

Elena has never had a choice in life, just like she doesn’t have a choice regarding this marriage. She is expected to be seen and not heard. Submit to her husband and never under any circumstance embarrass or disgrace her family name.

The anxious tension radiates off of Elena and Alessandro begins to suspect she has not been treated very kindly. The last thing he wants is a submissive and meek wife who fears him. But something about her eyes gives him hope there is a kernel of fire deep inside, and he won’t stop until it blazes to life.

This is a slow burn/touch her and die/he falls first dangerous love story. The mafia ties are prevalent, the chemistry is sizzling, and the love makes your heart pitter-patter.

She’s never been given a choice before him, and now he would kill anyone who dares take her choices from her.

Thank you Jennifer Smith for the privilege of being one of your Advance readers.

[Alex]

Quick read! Not bad for a mafia book.

[Holli D.W.]

Oath of Fire is the 2nd story in the Bound in Blood series. We met Alessandro Moretti in book one, and although we didn’t get to know him well- we learned that he is loyal to the core and would do anything for the family.

This story opens up with Elena Volkov, the daughter of a Russian crime boss, being prepared for her arranged marriage to Alessandro. Her father wants to use her as a bridge, to form/keep an alliance between the Volkov and Moretti families.

Elena has never had a choice in life, just like she doesn’t have a choice regarding this marriage. She is expected to be seen and not heard. Submit to her husband and never under any circumstance embarrass or disgrace her family name.

The anxious tension radiates off of Elena and Alessandro begins to suspect she has not been treated very kindly. The last thing he wants is a submissive and meek wife who fears him. But something about her eyes gives him hope there is a kernel of fire deep inside, and he won’t stop until it blazes to life.

This is a slow burn/touch her and die/he falls first dangerous love story. The mafia ties are prevalent, the chemistry is sizzling, and the love makes your heart pitter-patter.

She’s never been given a choice before him, and now he would kill anyone who dares take her choices from her.

Thank you Jennifer Smith for the privilege of being one of your Advance readers.

[Liz]

Dark, dangerous, and completely addictive. This is mafia romance done right. Alessandro Moretti is the definition of ruthless power—cold, calculating, and terrifying to everyone except the woman he claims as his own. Elena starts as a broken princess, raised to obey and disappear, but watching her transform into fire was everything.

What begins as an arranged marriage quickly explodes into obsession, loyalty, and brutal devotion. Alessandro doesn’t want a silent wife—he wants a queen, and the way he sees Elena’s strength before she ever does is intoxicating. Their chemistry is scorching, their bond unbreakable, and the betrayal that follows hits hard.

Elena’s evolution from pawn to powerhouse is chef’s kiss. By the end, she isn’t just his wife—she’s a Moretti, forged in blood and fire. And Alessandro? The lengths he’ll go to protect her are unhinged in the best way.

If you love dark mafia romance with possessive energy, fierce character growth, and a man who will burn the world for his woman—this book delivers 🔥🖤

[Niki N Evans]

I absolutely love this book, it is the second in the series, the doms under boss has to marry in order to form an alliance with somebody else, he is known to be very scary, his wife was raised to be the proper Mafia wife, not seen not a burden, she didn't get to pick things out for her own or be her own person, and when they get married he realized while he thought he wanted a wife that was extremely obedient that wasn't something he liked, so throughout the book she has learned to be stronger which he knew she could be, and he has learned to be softer at least when it comes to her, they both have a beautiful character growth and while the spice is not crazy wild I think it fits perfectly into the storyline, also the storyline is wonderful it balances well.

[Samantha AdamsMcCord]

I absolutely loved it! We got to know Alessandro in book 1. He was the broody enforcer cousin to Dante. Seeing his protective side, especially towards Elena, will have you swooning, wanting more from these too. This book is amazing I am loving everything Jennifer writes.
Elena this amazing young lady how comes out of her Shell and become Alessandro’s Wife not just listen and mold to your husbands needs but becomes his world!
Who doesn't love a touch her and 💀 book! I loved the growth and development of Elena. She went from meek and quite to a bad a$$ FMC ready to stand by her man no matter what the cost. I never want the story to end. Looking forward to book 3. This series is amazing and can’t wait for more don’t want to give too many spoilers! spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

[Cafedarc]

ARC review

Oath of Fire is the second installment in the Bound in Blood series, and this time the spotlight is on Elena and Alessandro. Alessandro was introduced in the first book, where their arranged marriage was set in motion to strengthen the alliance between the Volkov and Moretti families.

The premise is irresistible, and Jennifer Smith delivers it with confidence and emotional depth. I really enjoyed Dante and Isabella’s story, but Elena and Alessandro have completely stolen the show for me. Watching Elena grow, find her strength, and stand beside Alessandro—not behind him—was incredibly satisfying.

I highly recommend this book. It works well on its own, but you’ll get even more out of it if you start with the first book in the series.

[Melissa Wright]

This is book 2 of the bound in blood series. I absolutely loved it! We got to know Alessandro in book 1. He was the broody enforcer cousin to Dante. Seeing his protective side, especially towards Elena, will have you swooning. Who doesn't love a touch her and 💀 book! I loved the growth and development of Elena. She went from meek and quite to a bad a$$ FMC ready to stand by her man no matter what the cost. I just wish these books were longer, I don't want them to end. Looking forward to book 3.

[Greta]

I enjoyed this book immensely! I loved how Elena came into herself and became basically fearless. Alessandro is a stand up guy and I appreciated how he supported Elena and her journey not forcing her to stay down. I didn’t give it a full five stars because I felt like there were opportunities to add more to the story. I wanted more. The book was great, I just wanted more because the story was really good. Spice was great too!

[Thatbooklady]

I absolutely adored this book and couple, and I'm so glad Dante made a reappearance. watching his walls break down for her was absolutely adorable 😍 and her finally becoming the strong woman her family stopped her from becoming was everything. thoo my only issue was I wish there was more spicy, but that's just me lol I can't wait to see where this world goes, and hopefully, his cousin and her bodyguard get a story 😩

[Adriana Maria]

Oath of Fire is a mafia arranged-marriage romance where Alessandro falls first and never looks back. Bound to Elena by obligation, he becomes fiercely protective and quietly devoted, even as she struggles to trust. What makes this story is Elena’s journey—through the marriage she finds herself. With high stakes, slow-burn chemistry, and meaningful character growth, this book is sooooo good!

[Ashton]

We love a strong MMC that helps the FMC find herself and her strength. Psst he falls first! I absolutely ate this book up and can't wait for this series to continue. The relationship between Elena and Alessandro is pure gold and everything you hope for in a relationship- the definition of loyalty!
-Mafia
-Arranged Marriage
-He falls first
-Touch her and d!e
-She learns her worth

[Jennifer Taylor]

Absolutely devoured this book all in one sitting. This is the second book in the series but can be read on its own, I will be going back to read the first book next. The story is well paced and action paced. The character development was well thought out and I loved seeing how both Alessandro and Elena develop throughout the story. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Ramona Moon]

This is a really nice book to read.

It starts with arraigned marriage to strengthen an alliance and it just turns into pure love.

Elena is finding her voice/ strength and Alessandro is supporting her. Great connection between MMC and FMC with danger close by.

I did not read the first book in the Series but it was easy to catch on.

[Michelle]

Book 2 of the Bound in Blood series and just as I thought, this book was Amazing! In book 1 we are introduced to Alessandro and book 2 picks up where he marries Elena. It’s an arranged marriage of course! Without giving too much away this has touch her and die energy, family alliances, and of course spice! I’m so obsessed with this series. Already looking forward to next one.

[Desiree Arick]

Jennifer Smith’s books love to keep me from sleeping because I can’t seem to put them down!

As I read the story I instantly fell in love with the main characters and I especially love how much the FMC grew throughout the story.

A couple of my favorite quotes were “Where you go, I go” and “I would burn the world to the fucking ground before I ever left you”

[MandysBookish Mind]

I loved Dante and Isabella, but Alessandra and Elena are just as incredible. Alessandro may have chosen Elena as part of an alliance, but watching him completely unravel for her was beautiful. Every vulnerable part of him slowly comes to the surface, and his protectiveness toward Elena is undeniable long before he even understands his own feelings.

Elena has been conditioned from a young age to obey, to stay quiet, and to accept her role without question. Alessandro sees straight through that. He doesn’t just want her obedience, he wants the mask to fall. He wants her free. He gives her choices, space, and support, allowing her to grow into a woman she was never taught she could be. Watching Elena find her voice and stand her ground, and knowing Alessandro loved every second of it, was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.

Elena’s growth truly shines. Her time with Gia was fun and heartfelt, and I loved the bond they formed. Her relationship with Rocco was just as precious, and the fact that he’s every bit as protective of her as Alessandro says so much about the kind of person Elena is. Seeing her become comfortable in her own skin, confident in who she is and what she wants, was incredibly satisfying.

Beyond the character growth, the events of the story kept things exciting. Every moment added something meaningful, whether it pushed the plot forward or deepened the relationships. It made the story impossible to put down and incredibly satisfying by the end. I received this as an ARC and all this reflects my honest opinion.

You go where I go.

[Katrina Payne]

This author is on fire! Again I was not disappointed, the plot just kept getting better. I am anxiously waiting to devour another book. If you are looking for a page turning adventure and to live within the pages of a book, this is it.

[Peggy]

I am loving this series so far! Quick but great Mafia love stories with all the feels. I couldn’t put it down! Waiting for the main characters to realize they were made for each other tore my heart out. I hope there is another one!

[Emily]

Arranged/Forced Marriage
Mafia World
Touch Her and Die
"A marriage has been arranged." That's what starts Elena's descent into Alessandro Moretti's mafia world. I can't say enough good things about this. I wanted more after it was over. Definitely will be one I re-read.

[Jessica Blackman]

This story reminded me a bit of my old self and how my husband helped me figure out who I was. I enjoyed every moment of this story and how El was able to find her true self amongst all she went through.

Highly recommend! If you need a reminder and a bit of hope in your life, pick up this book!

[Erin]

Elena is by far my favorite character in this series. I love how she broke out of her shell and became the strong woman everyone knew she was inside. Definitely in my top 10 favorites.

[Jennifer Smith]

Oath of Fire is now available!!! I hope you fall in love with Alessandro and Elena!
https://a.co/d/4TA19S2

[Samantha AdamsMcCord]

I absolutely loved it! We got to know Alessandro in book 1. He was the broody enforcer cousin to Dante. Seeing his protective side, especially towards Elena, will have you swooning, wanting more from these too. This book is amazing I am loving everything Jennifer writes.
Elena this amazing young lady how comes out of her Shell and become Alessandro’s Wife not just listen and mold to your husbands needs but becomes his world!
Who doesn't love a touch her and 💀 book! I loved the growth and development of Elena. She went from meek and quite to a bad a$$ FMC ready to stand by her man no matter what the cost. I never want the story to end. Looking forward to book 3. This series is amazing and can’t wait for more don’t want to give too many spoilers! spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

[Taylor Shasteen Russell]

If you’re looking for a man that would do anything to protect his woman… even if he’s not so sure he loves her right off jump… an arranged marriage and a woman who ends up finding herself… then this book is for you.
I feel it’s a 3.5 star rating, but I gave it a 4. It was kind of predictable, but I kept reading it to see where it went and how it played out. I enjoyed this read. It is also a fairly quick read! This is my second book I’ve read by her and I’m looking forward to more.
I did receive a free copy of this book for an honest review and I’d like to thank the author!! :)

[Shonna Johnson]

*Arc Review*
Thank you for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review! ❤️

3.5 ⭐️Allesandro (MMC) and Elena (FMC) are set up to be married for mafia alliances, but Allesandro quickly realizes that this is not just another business transaction for him and grows protective of Elena.

Hand me a card and I am going SHOPPING no questions asked LOL

Medium pace - so not too fast or too slow for a novella!

A must read if you’re looking for a short read and if you’re a fan of a touch her & die MMC.

•Arranged Marriage
•Protective MMC
•Helps her see her worth
•Age Gap (10)
•🌶️/🌶️🌶️

[Kim]

All the feels

The MMC is violence and softness. The MFC is petrified of her family and a ghost of herself. We watch her grow unto herself and love every minute of it. Excellent story, can't wait for more!

[Jessica Heaton]

In. Love. 💕

Alessandro and Elena? Literal Perfection.

I wish there was more. I never wanted the story to end. I want to read it all!!!! Their whole life till death do they part. I can’t wait for the next one in this series!!! PLEASE let there be a next one!

[Jennifer Smith]

Alessandro and & Elena 🥵

I absolutely love Alessandro and Elena's love story! I love how Elena found herself and Alessandro realized he didn’t just want a quiet wife...he wanted a queen!