Teresa Wolf's As Devils Love is a gripping foray into the dark and dangerous world of organized crime, where love and hate dance a perilous tango. The novel, which serves as the first installment in the Little Flame Duet, introduces readers to a narrative that is as intense as it is captivating, setting the stage for a thrilling continuation in its sequel, As Angels Sin.

At the heart of the story is a protagonist who is as enigmatic as he is ruthless. The unnamed assassin, a cold-hearted killer with an impeccable track record, finds his world turned upside down when he encounters the daughter of a rival Don. This unexpected meeting challenges his unwavering resolve and introduces a complexity to his character that is both intriguing and unsettling. The blurb succinctly captures this transformation: "I’m a cold-hearted killer. Until she stopped me dead in my tracks." This pivotal moment is the catalyst for a narrative that explores themes of power, vulnerability, and the thin line between love and hate.

Wolf's portrayal of the protagonist is a masterclass in character development. Initially, he is presented as a one-dimensional figure, defined solely by his role as a hitman. However, as the story unfolds, layers of his personality are peeled back, revealing a man who is not only capable of violence but also of deep, conflicting emotions. This duality is what makes him a compelling character and keeps readers invested in his journey. The internal struggle between his professional obligations and personal desires adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a tale of crime and retribution.

The female lead, the daughter of the rival Don, is equally well-crafted. She is not merely a damsel in distress but a formidable character in her own right. Her interactions with the protagonist are charged with tension and chemistry, creating a dynamic that is both volatile and magnetic. Wolf skillfully navigates their relationship, balancing moments of intense conflict with those of unexpected tenderness. This push and pull between the characters is a testament to Wolf's ability to write complex, multi-dimensional relationships that resonate with readers.

One of the standout elements of As Devils Love is its exploration of the theme of forbidden love. The protagonist's attraction to the daughter of his enemy is fraught with danger and moral ambiguity, raising questions about loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of desire. Wolf delves into these themes with nuance, avoiding clichés and instead offering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden trope. The result is a story that feels both familiar and new, drawing readers into a world where love is as perilous as it is irresistible.

In terms of pacing, the novel is expertly structured, with a narrative that unfolds at a brisk yet measured pace. Wolf's writing is taut and evocative, capturing the tension and urgency of the protagonist's predicament. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding to the authenticity of the characters and their interactions. The book's setting, steeped in the shadowy underworld of the Mafia, is vividly rendered, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Comparatively, As Devils Love shares thematic similarities with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as J.T. Geissinger's Dangerous Beauty series or Cora Reilly's Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles. However, Wolf distinguishes her work through her focus on character psychology and the moral complexities of her narrative. While other authors may prioritize action or romance, Wolf strikes a balance, ensuring that both elements are integral to the story's progression.

Overall, As Devils Love is a compelling start to the Little Flame Duet, offering readers a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. Teresa Wolf has crafted a narrative that challenges conventional notions of love and loyalty, inviting readers to question what they would do when faced with impossible choices. The book's impact lies in its ability to engage readers on both an intellectual and emotional level, making it a must-read for fans of romantic suspense and crime fiction alike.

As the story concludes, it leaves readers eagerly anticipating the sequel, As Angels Sin, promising further exploration of the characters' complex relationships and the dangerous world they inhabit. For those seeking a novel that combines the intensity of a thriller with the depth of a character-driven drama, As Devils Love is an excellent choice.