Bound by the Past is the seventh book in the Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles series by Cora Reilly. This novel delves into the lives and tumultuous relationship between Dante Cavallaro and Valentina Amato, two characters deeply enmeshed in the complex web of the mafia's honor and violence. Genuine, raw, and intensely erotic, Reilly’s writing continues to enchant and grip her audience, delving deeper into the dark world of one of organized crime's most powerful families.

The story is centered around Dante, now the Capo of Chicago, grappling with the challenges that come with leading one of the most powerful Outfits in the country. Placed beside him is Valentina, a woman haunted by her own traumatic past and seeking solace in her love for Dante. The complexity of their relationship is framed by their positional duties within the mafia hierarchy and past heartaches, which create significant obstacles to their happiness. Reilly masterfully captures the complications of loving amidst power struggles and familial loyalties, imbuing the narrative with authenticity and poignancy.

The author’s portrayal of Dante, previously known from earlier books as a more peripheral character, is both compelling and enlightening. Here, he is metamorphosed into a fully rounded leader; a man toughened by the duties of his rank, but vulnerable when it comes to Valentina and his family. His character development is one of the high points of the book, providing a satisfying depth to a personality that had simmered in the background of previous novels. Valentina, on her part, emerges as a strong counterpart. Despite the traditional submissive role expected of her, she defies norms with her resilience and quiet strength. Her inner battles and evolution are portrayed with finesse, gaining both the reader’s empathy and respect.

The romantic dynamics between Dante and Valentina are both fiery and tender. Reilly does not shy away from explicit content, which is tastefully crafted to enhance the emotional connection between the characters rather than to simply titillate. The sexual tension serves as a conduit for emotional intimacy, a feature Reilly has always managed to present skillfully. This balance between erotic and emotional engagement is not easy to maintain, but Reilly executes it with an expert touch.

Setting and supporting characters enrich the tapestry of the storyline. The grim and relentless atmosphere of the mafia's world is vividly drawn, placing readers right into the smoke-filled rooms where fates are decided. Supporting characters, both old and new, add layers to the narrative, creating subplots that are intriguing but never distract from the main storyline. Characters like Matteo, a loyal underling with his own complex views on the mafia life, provide additional perspectives on the life within the mob, filling out the world Reilly has created.

The pacing of Bound by the Past is masterfully handled, with a mix of suspenseful peaks and emotional troughs. This ebbs and flows effectively keep the reader engaged from start to finish. The dialogue is sharp, imbued with the harshness of the world Reilly depicts, yet interspersed with moments of genuine tenderness and humanity. It’s this juxtaposition that adds a rich layer of realism to the narrative.

As with many books of its genre, Bound by the Past deals with themes like violence and loyalty, power and corruption. However, Reilly approaches these with a questioning eye, prodding the grey areas of morality in the mafia’s dealings, which encourages readers to think critically about right and wrong as it applies in Dante and Valentina’s world.

Yet, no book is without its faults. Some may find certain aspects of the mafia lifestyle depicted, such as the deep-seated misogyny and violence, unsettling. While these elements are intrinsic to the book's authenticity and setting, sensitive readers might find these themes difficult.

In conclusion, Cora Reilly’s Bound by the Past is a gripping addition to the Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles. The novel not only explores the turbulent romance between Dante and Valentina but also provides compelling insights into life and death within the mafia. For fans of dark romance and crime fiction, this book is a commanding read that balances brutal honesty with touching moments of love and loyalty. Reilly confirms her skill as a storyteller, weaving a tale that is both captivating and emotionally resonant, earning its place as a standout in the series.