In the heart of Russia, where danger lurks behind every corner and power dictates the flow of life, sixteen-year-old Damara Bartley faces a new chapter that's far from what she envisioned. Forced to leave behind her life in Australia after a tragedy, Damara finds herself thrust into a world of wealth, intrigue, and old family secrets. Damara's dreams of continuing her grandmother's legacy in the world of winemaking seem as distant as the sun-kissed landscapes she left behind. With a new bottle shop in a town steeped in crime, she's determined to honour her grandmother's spirit by crafting exquisite wines. But her peaceful plans are shattered when she crosses paths with Cayleb Volkov, a mysterious and charismatic figure with connections to the Russian mafia. Cayleb, a man of power and enigma, sees potential in Damara's creations-and in her. His intentions are far from clear, blending business with a dangerous allure that challenges Damara's resolve. As their worlds collide, Damara must navigate a delicate balance between her ambitions and the seductive power Cayleb wields. In "Mafia Wine," secrets are uncorked, alliances are tested, and passion flows as freely as the wine Damara so lovingly crafts. Will Damara manage to preserve her family's legacy, or will the volatile mix of crime and romance lead her to an unexpected fate? "Oh, a club owner, how quaint! But I didn't realise my entire future hinged on the approval of a man in a tailored jacket who thinks he can just swoop in and buy everything in sight," I shot back, injecting a snarky edge into my tone. "If you think I'm going to hand over my dreams to someone who can't even keep their personal space intact, you might want to consider reevaluating your strategy."
13 parts