The Hermit

Mafia Empire, Book 1

By: Michelle Heard

Narrated by: Ryan West, Helena Walters

From USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author Michelle Heard comes a new standalone, full-length mafia romance novel.

I entered an arranged marriage so my sister, Ciara, could marry for love. Three years later, I'm a widow, and my father arranges for Ciara to marry Dominik Varga. The assassin slash arms dealer is as dangerous as he's quiet, which is very unnerving.

Needless to say, I'm not happy at all. A deal was a deal, and I kept my end of it, so there's no way on God's green earth I'll just sit back and smile like a good little girl. I'll fight for Ciara's freedom so she won't have to face the hell I was forced to endure.

But Dominik doesn't make things easy for me. He's determined to get his hands on half of Dad's empire.

When he moves into my family home, my entire routine unravels. I have to fight for more than just my sister's freedom because I'm in danger of losing my heart.

I refuse to admit I'm drawn to his darkness. If I do, God only knows whether we'll survive the fire raging between us.

Each book in the Mafia Empire series is interconnected but about a different couple who will all find their HEA.

Narrated in duet style.

©2025 Michelle Heard (P)2025 Podium Audio

Michelle Heard has done it again!

What a great book, with a creative plot, believable characters and excellent narration. I don't review very many books, but I really enjoy every Michelle Heard a book that I listen to! Treat yourself!

The Story

Michelle Heard never disappoints when it comes to mafia men! Love everything about this book, the story, the characters! Love the two narrators so much, they did a great job and love their voices and the passion!

Abrupt ending

3.5 Stars for me. One of my favorite authors,so a little bummed. Did leave a lot of loose ends. Very abrupt ending. With that being said, I love how she writes strong FMC and MMCs who would burn the world for this ladies. So, I already pre ordered the next in the series. Hope it shines some light on this left open in the first book, even though they’re written as a stand alone.
I really enjoyed the male narrator!

4.5 star read 🥹 duet narration

I never give mafia stories more than 4 stars bc they are very insta-lusty and not actual love. But this one is soo different 🥹 the MMC is soo sweet and patient i loved it soo much. The FMC was strong although she’s been through hell. Duet narration? michelle heard is spoiling us.

My new favorite mafia romance

A very refreshing twist to the mafia romance. An alpha male that is not a total A**hole. This book is playful, funny and yet has some suspense to the story line. I could have used more of the alliance doing their thing together. Narrators were awesome!!