Take Her by Cassie Alexander is the first book in The Moth and the Monster trilogy and marks the author's contemporary debut.
What you can expect: -Take Her by Cassie Alexander is the first book in The Moth and the Monster trilogy and marks the author's contemporary debut.
What you can expect: -an age-gap romance featuring Daddy's best friend -a workplace, forced proximity romance -suspenseful family drama -a heroine who has been in love with the hero since her youth -a tortured hero and widower -an irresistible attraction that intensifies over time -a cliffhanger ending that isn't overly dramatic
✨ "...if I was a moth, then he was my flame, and I was just going to keep flying nearer and nearer until he burned me alive. - Lia ✨
I greatly enjoyed reading Take Her! Despite its 400+ pages, I finished the book in no time. The pacing was excellent, filled with intimate moments and engaging dialogue between the main characters. The backstory is well-developed, and the direction of the plot is clear. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment!
Ruthless Sinner is a wild ride with compelling characters that immerse you in a chaotic world of retribution, dominance, and brutality.
Here is whRuthless Sinner is a wild ride with compelling characters that immerse you in a chaotic world of retribution, dominance, and brutality.
Here is what you can expect from this enemies-to-lovers mafia romance: - a dark captive romance - an obsessed morally ambiguous hero - a tumultuous heroine - dysfunctional family dynamics - trauma - kink - HEA w/ Epilogue
Adalina is celebrating her 21st birthday with her friends at a nightclub when she meets 31 y.o. Dante. She decides that a one-night stand is worth her father's wrath and goes home with him. Little does Adalina know, that Dante plans to hold her ransom until her father repays his debts to Dante's family. However, Dante's strong desire to possess her contradicts his initial plan for revenge. After enduring years of abuse by her father, Adalina yearns for a savior. Although Adalina doesn't deny their fiery attraction, Dante's manipulation and treatment of her make her hesitant to believe Dante could ever be that man.
Overall, I enjoyed Ruthless Sinner by Cora Kent. The plot was engaging, and the characters were intriguing, particularly Dante, who was driven by his obsession with Adalina. However, I found his treatment of her to be questionable at times. I was surprised at the lack of groveling from Dante, which I had hoped to see. Adalina is a strong female lead, so it seemed out of character for her to readily forgive him, especially after his behavior toward the end of their story.
Dante's inner circle, including his bodyguard Enzo and his brothers, allowed me to see different sides of the lead characters, which I appreciated. I am eager to learn more about Enzo and hope Cora Kent grants him his very own happily ever after.
After reading numerous fairytale retellings, I craved something darker, and Carnival Monster by Selena Winters certainly delivered!
Here is what yoAfter reading numerous fairytale retellings, I craved something darker, and Carnival Monster by Selena Winters certainly delivered!
Here is what you can expect from this erotic horror story: - a mysterious masked hero looking for his next victim - a tempting and fearless heroine - an instant attraction with intoxicating kink - gut punching triggers - a sweet HEA
I appreciated the depth of the characters and the fleshed-out storyline. If you're in the mood for a wild and thrilling escape into the darker side of romance, I recommend reading this story!
✨... familiar darkness calls to me, promising the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of the kill. But her gaze holds a different promise of connection, understanding, and life beyond the shadows. - Gage✨
Sweet Briar by Joline Pearce is an exceptional retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. The story revolves around a beautiful fae princess hSweet Briar by Joline Pearce is an exceptional retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. The story revolves around a beautiful fae princess hunted by monsters, a handsome prince eager to possess her, and a dark knight with a heart of gold. Joline Pearce skillfully reimagines the original fairytale to craft a unique and enthralling story.
What you can expect from this dark romantasy: ...more
I was blown away by Neva Altaj's remix of the classic tale, Beauty and the Beast! Beautiful Beast captured all the beloved elements of the oriI was blown away by Neva Altaj's remix of the classic tale, Beauty and the Beast! Beautiful Beast captured all the beloved elements of the original story while adding a creative twist that breathed new life into the fairy tale. It was exactly the kind of story I was craving. I found myself eagerly looking forward to diving back into it at every opportunity, and though it had to end, the conclusion was adorably satisfying.
Here's what you can expect from the story: ...more
If you're looking for an exciting and flirty paranormal romance, you should definitely check out Demon's Bride by Leigh Miller. This is the first bookIf you're looking for an exciting and flirty paranormal romance, you should definitely check out Demon's Bride by Leigh Miller. This is the first book in the Crescent Coven series and offers a unique take on demons and soul-reaping that will intrigue you.
This story introduces us to Allison Hawthorn, a 26 y.o. witch considered powerless despite being the daughter of the coven's High Priestess. Allie's life takes a surprising turn when the Goddess chooses her to be a tithe bride, which means she is tasked with marrying a demon to keep the magick of the Veil - portals that separate the human world from other realms - alive.
Enter Eren Ashblood, an 87 y.o. demon king who immediately recognizes Allie as his fated mate. The two quickly become entangled in a mystery to save demonkind and prevent the consequences of soul-reaping. But will Allison's limited magick be enough to maintain the veil?
✨ “You’re a temptation for me,” he says gruffly. “Too much a temptation. I want to take this night slowly. I don’t want to frighten you.”
“Do I seem frightened?” ✨
Demon's Bride is a satisfying read! The chemistry between Eren and Allie is irresistible, and Eren's possessive and protective nature toward her is charming. I also admired Allie's resilience despite her lack of magick and the unfamiliarity of her situation. With an excellent blend of kinky shenanigans, insightful dialogue, and a captivating mystery, this book is sure to please.
I chanced upon this novel, retitled "Sorcerers Reign," while browsing on Kickstarter. The book's intriguing blurb and beautiful artwork immediately drI chanced upon this novel, retitled "Sorcerers Reign," while browsing on Kickstarter. The book's intriguing blurb and beautiful artwork immediately drew me in, and I'm pleased that I took a leap of faith and invested in this reimagined story of Aladdin.
The author, Jennifer M. Eaton, deserves immense credit for her skillful weaving of familiar characters and settings with fresh and innovative twists. The story is crafted with intricate detail and depth, making it an entertaining and charming adventure. The story's pace unfolds slowly but steadily, building momentum and creating a sense of anticipation that kept me riveted to the narrative.
I didn't realize, however, that Princess Badra, the MFC, was only 17 y.o., while the MMC, Jai'far Amir, was 25. Although the romance between the two characters was subtle, with hand-holding and occasional kisses, some occurrences were off-putting once I realized the princess's age. For example, (view spoiler)[Aladdin (the "villain") gifts Princess Badra enchanted jewelry to force her submission and gropes her bare breasts in the presence of others. (hide spoiler)] I want to mention that I'm a fan of the dark romance genre, and taboo situations don't usually bother me. However, there was an innocence to this story that I wish had been preserved.
With that said, "Sorcerers Reign" is an enjoyable tale with an ideal blend of fantasy, adventure, intrigue, and romance. Jennifer M. Eaton's creativity and storytelling are sure to captivate readers.
Natalie Knight's Good Boy is a taboo romance between uncle and nephew, but the romantic aspect of the story was not as prominent as I had expected. NoNatalie Knight's Good Boy is a taboo romance between uncle and nephew, but the romantic aspect of the story was not as prominent as I had expected. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the plot and the kink had me buzzing. ...more
Moonlit Thorns is an impressive retelling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. From the very beginning, I was thoroughly engrossed in the storMoonlit Thorns is an impressive retelling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. From the very beginning, I was thoroughly engrossed in the story. Its gothic vibes completely swept me away! Although I wasn't familiar with the authors, P. Rayne, I approached the book with an open mind, not knowing what to expect. The story takes place in Magnolia Bend, a small town shrouded in mystery where the Voss family reigns. While I was hoping for more paranormal elements in the story (at least that was the direction I thought the story was headed), I found the contemporary retelling with billionaire alpha-hole brothers and sex parties just as alluring.
The book's hero, Asher, the eldest Voss brother, is a dominant and mysterious figure at 36 y.o. Although he's obnoxious, I found his character oddly endearing. Asher evicts the book's heroine, Anabelle Boudreaux, a 22 y.o. woman, from her family's estate, which he acquired due to her father's gambling debts. Despite his arrogant and crude behavior towards Anabelle, I couldn't help but root for their relationship.
Asher and Anabelle strike a bargain, and she agrees to work off her father's debt by residing at his estate. However, being in close proximity proved to be a challenge for them. Anabelle finds it hard to hide her attraction towards Asher, which makes for some amusing moments when he calls her out for it. There is some back and forth between them, but I admired Anabelle's resolve because she didn't wait around vying for Asher's affection. She knew she had other options, and damn Asher if he wouldn't acknowledge how amazing they could be together! I enjoyed them as individual characters but, also loved the slow burn from enemies to lovers to much more.
✨ "I love you, Asher Voss. All the parts of you. The damaged ones, the healing ones, and the perfect ones..." ✨
Moonlit Thorns is a great book that I will definitely read again. I can't wait for the next one in this series!
Toxic Love by Jagger Cole is a thrilling start to the Venomous Gods series that combines mafia intrigue, enemies-to-lovers romance, and intense passioToxic Love by Jagger Cole is a thrilling start to the Venomous Gods series that combines mafia intrigue, enemies-to-lovers romance, and intense passion. The author skillfully weaves suspense and angst into the story of 24 y.o. Tempest Black and 34 y.o. Dante Sartorre.
Tempest and Dante both have internal struggles, but they also face external obstacles that complicate their relationship and make it seem impossible. Every interaction between them is charged with intense emotion. However, while the book delivers on fiery passion, the love between Tempest and Dante feels somewhat lacking in depth. I felt that important conversations and topics should have been discussed earlier, but their physical desires often got in the way, which was frustrating. Despite this, the story is engaging and I was eager to see how they would achieve their happily ever after. Overall, Toxic Love is a promising start to the series, and I can't wait to see what Jagger Cole has in store for the next book.
If you're looking for a captivating regency romance, Second Duke's the Charm by Kate Bateman is an insta-read!
Justin Thornton, a 30-year-old successfuIf you're looking for a captivating regency romance, Second Duke's the Charm by Kate Bateman is an insta-read!
Justin Thornton, a 30-year-old successful and wealthy businessman, inherits a dukedom. He reluctantly travels to London, intending to set his affairs in order, find a wife, and return home within a year. But his plan goes awry when he meets 21-year-old Tess Townsend, the late duke's widow, who is beautiful, intelligent, and seemingly unattainable - until now!
This novel is perfect for readers who love the marriage of convenience trope, a hero who has sworn off relationships, and an innocent yet clever heroine. You'll readily fall in love with the grumpy, sexy, and cynical Justin Thornton. And you'll admire Tess' strength, as she is a strong character who can handle herself and doesn't settle for anything less than she deserves. The passion and sweet romance that blossoms between the two is simply irresistible!
Trust me, every page of Second Duke's the Charm is worth reading. Don't miss out!
After reading Tempt Me With Darkness, I'm convinced that the Doomsday Brethren series will be an absolute treat for readers who love mystical adventurAfter reading Tempt Me With Darkness, I'm convinced that the Doomsday Brethren series will be an absolute treat for readers who love mystical adventures, nail-biting danger, and explosive passion. The author's writing style and attention to detail while creating a world of sorcery are impressive, and the story itself is incredibly engaging with a unique medieval flair.
This series starter introduces a wide range of characters but mainly focuses on the journey of Marrok of Cadbury and Olivia Gray. Marrok is a cursed immortal who has been unable to achieve sexual release for the last fifteen centuries because of a hex placed on him by Olivia's great-great-grandmother, Morgana because he did not return her affection. When Marrok meets Olivia, he finds it hard to control his urges. He is immediately suspicious of her, thinking that she might be Morgana reincarnated and playing tricks on him.
Olivia is unaware of the existence of magickind and is unable to comprehend the accusations being made against her by Marrok. Despite his hostility, she feels drawn to him and quickly finds herself ensnared by the stunning man, but she also finds herself caught in the middle of a magical war.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and recommend Tempt Me With Darkness by Shayla Black to anyone who appreciates the following:
If you're a fan of steamy romances with an ultra-possessive alpha male, intense action, and buried family secrets, then you should definitely read StoIf you're a fan of steamy romances with an ultra-possessive alpha male, intense action, and buried family secrets, then you should definitely read Stolen Hearts by Jagger Cole.
If you've read the previous books in the Dark Hearts series, you already know about Calliope "Callie" Drakos' upcoming arranged marriage to a sadistic man three times her age. As her 21st birthday approaches, the deadline for submitting to the marriage contract, she decides to act on her year-long crush on Castle James. Little did Callie know that a stolen kiss in a garden would lead her to her heart's desire.
I particularly enjoyed Callie's fiery personality. Despite being innocent and facing a future she did not choose, she was determined to make the best of every opportunity. When she saw a chance to seduce Castle, she went for it! Their interactions were fun and full of passion. The only downside was the push-and-pull dynamic from Castle, which grew tiring for me and lasted more than half the book. However, it was worth the wait when he finally dropped his guard and let Callie into his heart.
Aside from the steamy scenes between Castle and Callie (which Jagger Cole always delivers on), I was impressed with how well the action scenes played out. The characters' intense fear and anxiety as they fought for their lives against those who wished to take them down were palpable. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
Overall, Stolen Hearts is an enjoyable and engaging story with exceptional steam and excitement.
Dual POV It can be read as a standalone Playlist & Epilogue
Tropes: mafia, forbidden, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced marriage, military hero, "look at her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Spoilers:(view spoiler)[ No cheating or sharing. No ow drama, no true om drama. No manwhore. HEA (hide spoiler)]
Content Warning:(view spoiler)[profanity, violence, parricide, explicit sex (virgin h, DDlg), attempted SA (not between MCs), discussions of mental health/anxiety/PTSD/grief. (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Merged review:
If you're a fan of steamy romances with an ultra-possessive alpha male, intense action, and buried family secrets, then you should definitely read Stolen Hearts by Jagger Cole.
If you've read the previous books in the Dark Hearts series, you already know about Calliope "Callie" Drakos' upcoming arranged marriage to a sadistic man three times her age. As her 21st birthday approaches, the deadline for submitting to the marriage contract, she decides to act on her year-long crush on Castle James. Little did Callie know that a stolen kiss in a garden would lead her to her heart's desire.
I particularly enjoyed Callie's fiery personality. Despite being innocent and facing a future she did not choose, she was determined to make the best of every opportunity. When she saw a chance to seduce Castle, she went for it! Their interactions were fun and full of passion. The only downside was the push-and-pull dynamic from Castle, which grew tiring for me and lasted more than half the book. However, it was worth the wait when he finally dropped his guard and let Callie into his heart.
Aside from the steamy scenes between Castle and Callie (which Jagger Cole always delivers on), I was impressed with how well the action scenes played out. The characters' intense fear and anxiety as they fought for their lives against those who wished to take them down were palpable. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
Overall, Stolen Hearts is an enjoyable and engaging story with exceptional steam and excitement.
Dual POV It can be read as a standalone Playlist & Epilogue
Tropes: mafia, forbidden, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced marriage, military hero, "look at her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Spoilers:(view spoiler)[ No cheating or sharing. No ow drama, no true om drama. No manwhore. HEA (hide spoiler)]
Content Warning:(view spoiler)[profanity, violence, parricide, explicit sex (virgin h, DDlg), attempted SA (not between MCs), discussions of mental health/anxiety/PTSD/grief. (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily....more
The Heiress and The Billionaire by Claire Ashford started off strong. The prologue immediately grabbed my attention, and I was excited to see where thThe Heiress and The Billionaire by Claire Ashford started off strong. The prologue immediately grabbed my attention, and I was excited to see where the forbidden love affair between Kendra Patterson and her father's best friend, Augustus Rogers, would lead.
I admired the character development of Kendra throughout the story. Initially portrayed as a spoiled rich girl, she transformed into a confident and independent woman. Augustus also stood out with his straightforward, tough-mindedness, which challenged Kendra, yet he showed her tenderness and love.
I really enjoyed the first half of this book but found the second half disappointing. By about 60% of the way through, the story lost its grip on me. The author used time jumps to move the plot forward, resulting in telling rather than showing. Additionally, the conflicts that Kendra and Augustus faced were underwhelming. Despite my initial excitement, the story ultimately fizzled out for me.
Although The Heiress and The Billionaire was not to my liking, I recommend contemporary romance enthusiasts who appreciate tropes like forbidden love, age gap, boss/employee, and surprise baby to give it a try, as it may appeal to your preferences.
Dual POV Standalone
Safe enough for me - (view spoiler)[no cheating or sharing between MCs. No true OM drama. Minor OW drama - H's college ex-girlfriend is a family friend and tries to come between h and H. No virgins. HEA with a 5 yr Epilogue. (hide spoiler)]
I would like to thank the author for providing an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions expressed are my own....more
**spoiler alert** Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith is an enthralling historical romance novel that transports readers through dangerous waters i**spoiler alert** Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith is an enthralling historical romance novel that transports readers through dangerous waters in pursuit of adventure and love. The story revolves around the themes of women's empowerment and equality, portrayed through engaging and complex characters.
⚠️ MILD SPOILERS BELOW ⚠️
The story begins with Gavin and his twin brother, Griffin Castleton, in love with the same woman, Charity, when they were just 19. Gavin was unaware of his brother's interest in her until Charity mistakenly called him by Griffin's name, revealing the betrayal of his brother and the woman he loved. I empathized with Gavin at that moment. Charity had been sleeping with both brothers, which I found distasteful. Charity chooses Griffin over Gavin, leaving him heartbroken and unable to bear their presence, so he flees.
Seven years later, Gavin has become the "King of the Pirates," a fierce and lawless man. Meanwhile, Griffin, who lost Charity and their son during childbirth, needs an heir. This is where Josephine "Josie" Greyville enters the picture. She is betrothed to Griffin, now a wealthy estate master, who would give her a respectable life. However, Josie yearns for freedom and adventure, rebelling against settling down.
When Gavin's ship mutinies off the coast of his home, he suffers a life-threatening wound and seeks out his brother for help. Instead of finding Griffin, he encounters Josephine, and their meeting leads to a thrilling pirate adventure.
✨ "... She let her own fire burn in her eyes. 'I belong to no man, only to myself.' His eyes darkened at her response, as though he was excited by her defiant challenge. 'Be careful, Josie. Never tell a pirate he can't have something,' Gavin warned. 'He'll be tempted to steal it.' " ✨
Devil of the High Seas is an alluring and immersive story, making readers feel as if they are sailing along with Gavin and Josie on the open seas. I enjoyed the witty and flirtatious banter between them and the undeniable chemistry they shared. Gavin supports Josie in fulfilling her dreams while her bravery and love help him overcome his personal struggles and grief. They are an inspiring couple and easy to root for!
I strongly recommend Devil of the High Seas to anyone looking for a thrilling and romantic read with delicious steam and a guaranteed happily ever after!
Multi POV Can be read as a standalone Prologue & Epilogue
Tropes: forced proximity, pirates, age gap, emotional scars, hurt/comfort, first-time heroine, possessive alpha male
Safety Spoilers:(view spoiler)[No cheating or sharing between MCs. Gavin is grieving the loss of Charity but there is no true OW drama. Gavin's ex-lover makes a few appearances but they are only friends - both have moved on. Josie is engaged to Griffin and they share a kiss but there is no true OM drama. MCs only have eyes for each other IMO! (hide spoiler)]
Content Warning:(view spoiler)[on-page sex, violence/death/murder (including child death and assault), kidnapping, cheating (not between MCs), arson, mentions of slavery. It's possible that I may have missed some things! (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily....more
I enjoyed reading the Sinful Empire Duet by Eva Charles, which ends with Wrath. I was impressed by this novel's excellent character development, intenI enjoyed reading the Sinful Empire Duet by Eva Charles, which ends with Wrath. I was impressed by this novel's excellent character development, intense plot, and clever twists. This story has a bit of betrayal, redemption, and suspense wrapped up in an angsty love story. The book's darker themes were skillfully done, evoking a range of emotions as the story progressed.
I thought Rafael Huntsman's devotion to Lexie Clarke was admirable. Their interactions were brimming with desire and passion but also heartbreak because they weren't sure how to make things work between them. But love always finds a way, and eventually, they tame their inner demons and learn how to trust each other fully. For me, the best moments were when Rafael and Lexie were their most vulnerable. I enjoyed the tender touches and moments of epiphany. Of course, the passion and dirty talking were intoxicating too! Wrath is a satisfying ending to Rafael and Lexie's journey. I loved it!
The Sinful Empire Duet is a great story for anyone who loves romance novels with strong characters, sensuality, dangerous twists, and a happy ending that's well-earned.
Dual POV The Sinful Empire Duet: Pride and Wrath can be read independently of the other books in the series, including Greed , Lust , and Envy .
Tropes: second chance romance, age gap, dark mafia romance, anti-hero, heroine in danger
Safety Spoilers/Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, childhood trauma, domestic violence, sex trafficking, gaslighting, and murder. I would consider this a "safe" read. (hide spoiler)]
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Quarry Road Publishing for providing an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Lesson Learned by Layla Simon, follows the relationship between a student named Paisley and her English teacher, Conner. As someone who enjoys readingLesson Learned by Layla Simon, follows the relationship between a student named Paisley and her English teacher, Conner. As someone who enjoys reading dark romances, I prefer morally ambiguous villains over the nice guy, but this story surprised even me with its kinky shenanigans!
Conner is a member of a mafia family and is assigned to uncover secrets at Paisley's school while posing as the new English teacher. They first meet at a nightclub, sharing a moment of passion, and are later surprised to cross paths again in the classroom.
I was shocked to find myself liking Conner and Paisley; I even enjoyed their developing romance. I was eager to see how things would play out.
Layla Simon does an excellent job of pushing the boundaries of her readers. While this story is taboo and may make some readers uncomfortable with explicit scenes of dubious and non-consensual sex, you come to care for these flawed characters who are dealing with past trauma.
Lesson Learned is perfect for readers of dark romance who enjoy emotionally damaged protagonists with unconventional kink.
Dual POV Can be read as a standalone
Safety/Content SPOILERS: (view spoiler)[profanity, dub/non-con, somnophilia (h is drugged by H), swaddling, CNC, spanking, anal, coercive control, stupefying, SA, physical assault, and murder.
I consider this story "safe-ish" - H is a manwhore and mentions going on two dates after meeting the h but cannot follow through. Nothing happens with OW. Divorced H. No sharing. No virgins. No true OM drama - h is SA on-page by OM. Age gap - h is 17 y.o. upon meeting the H who is 26 y.o. (legal age of consent is 16). (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily....more
Psycho by V.T. Do, is a gritty and suspenseful MC romance that is sure to keep you entertained. The main characters, Micha and Lainey, are easy to rooPsycho by V.T. Do, is a gritty and suspenseful MC romance that is sure to keep you entertained. The main characters, Micha and Lainey, are easy to root for.
Micha Stone is an unfeeling machine that has gained the moniker "Psycho" as the King's Men MC enforcer.
"The numbness was my friend. I was good at what I did because of this numbness. I was good because of the ice that surrounded my heart." - Micha
Lainey Reyes has been dealt a cruel hand in life. She has suffered neglectful parents and a power-hungry, abusive father.
"Sometimes, it felt like I was screaming, and no one was around to hear. Or perhaps there was someone, they just didn't care." - Lainey
As Micha walks into a convenience store, his eyes lock onto Lainey and he feels an immediate connection. Instinctually he is drawn to her, but he knows that at the age of seventeen, she is too young for him to claim. Over the next three years, he keeps a close eye on her. Unfortunately (or fortunately), her terrible father, trades her in to settle a debt with the King's Men MC. Micha sees this as an opportunity and takes her away with him.
"She belonged to me and only me. I would burn the both of us in the fire of my own destruction before I would ever let her go - or let her belong to anyone else." - Micha
Although they face challenges along the way, they realize that they need each other to heal their fractured souls.
"She needed me in the way I needed her to breathe. To feel human again." - Micha
Overall, I really enjoyed Psycho by V.T. Do! I was fascinated by the seventeen-year age gap between Lainey and Micha, and how they navigated their relationship with little experience in courtship. Their attraction is instant, yet Micha gives Lainey the necessary time and space to adjust to her new life with him. Though Micha has a wild and crazy side, he is a true sweetheart, especially when it comes to Lainey. They have deep love and affection toward each other which was heartwarming to witness.
For those who enjoy captive and/or bully romances, devoted heroes, and taboo claiming rituals, I suggest adding Psycho to your reading list.
Dual POV Can be read as a standalone
Tropes: age gap, stalker romance, obsessive hero, forced cohabitation, dark past/emotional scars, damsel in distress
Safety Info / Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, parental abuse/neglect, mentions of drug use, violence/death, attempted SA (not involving H), on-page sex (virgin h), dub-con, unprotected sex (Plan B discussed), blood play, branding, "good girl" kink. No cheating or sharing. No OW drama. No true OM drama - h has a boyfriend prior to meeting H but it's not a sexual or emotional relationship. IMO this is a safe read! H is abstinent after meeting h. Prologue/HEA/Epilogue. (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily....more
I have eagerly awaited the story of Cillian Kildare, a dark avenging angel, and Una O'Conor, an innocent and fierce temptress.
It took me a few chapteI have eagerly awaited the story of Cillian Kildare, a dark avenging angel, and Una O'Conor, an innocent and fierce temptress.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to Cillian's harsh and punishing love, but eventually, his tenderness shines through. Jagger Cole did an excellent job demonstrating how Una's presence in Cillian's life transforms him and silences his inner demons. Cillian, in turn, becomes Una's unexpected protector, providing her with a safety net to fall upon, and helping her flourish and face her own demons. Together, these broken individuals find peace and solace in each other's chaotic souls. Their tale delves into complex topics but is handled well, with a satisfying resolution for these characters.
If you're in the mood for an intense dark mafia romance featuring unhinged protagonists who fight as hard as they love, I highly recommend picking up Vicious Hearts by Jagger Cole.
Dual POV - Cillian and Una Standalone
Tropes: dark mafia, enemies to lovers, villainous hero, age gap, marriage contract, found family, "hurt her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Info / TW: (view spoiler)[profanity, on-page sex (virgin h), psychopath hero, CSA, self-harm, suicide, addiction, cigarette smoking. CNC, sadomasochism, praise kink, breath play, knife play. No cheating or sharing. No ow/om drama. Playlist. HEA with Epilogue. (hide spoiler)]...more