Book excerpt: Serena Fiori has finally found a sense of belonging within her newfound mafia family, yet the darkness of her past continues to haunt her. Navigating the world of the Italian underworld, the young beauty is determined to break free from the chains of her traumatic past and embrace the protection offered by her powerful brothers. However, her newfound happiness is threatened when a chance reunion sparks a dangerous obsession from a man who was once her tormentor. Forced to confront her deepest fears, Serena must make a choice - succumb to the shadows, or find the strength to fight back with the aid of the one man who burns for her completely. Enter the ruthless Alexei Volkov, heir to the Russian Bratva. Alexei is a man driven by primal, possessive instincts - he will stop at nothing to shield Serena from. With an iron will and a body honed for dominance, he'll crush anyone who dares to stand between him and the captivating woman who has ensnared his blackened heart. As the Fiori and Volkov families join forces to eliminate the sinister forces closing in, Serena finds herself caught in a deadly game of power, passion and retribution. Can she trust Alexei to be her champion, or will the emerging secrets and lies tear her world apart once more? This is Book 2 of the Empire of Blood series. Book 1, Veil of Secrets, is recommended to be read first.