Hemlock

by Madilyn DeRose

San Francisco was widely known as a hub for technology, sky-high rent prices, and a great night life. What nobody knew was that it was also home to a coven of vampires that had learned to blend in flawlessly. With two powerful leaders keeping things running smoothly, nobody could pose a threat to their way of life. The best threats, though, came from the inside.

The only thing Lock loved more than blood was power, which was why he'd been planning a flawless coup d'état for over a decade. Nothing would get in his way. When vampires suddenly started going feral in the streets, however, it was bound to complicate things. Lock was nothing if not imaginative, though. He wasn't afraid to paint the city in red, as long as he got what he wanted in the end.

When he met Sam, he found that what he wanted was more volatile than he'd expected. Killing her was the smartest move if he wanted everything to go according to plan. He refused to throw away a decade of planning for some redhead with a bad attitude. San Francisco would be his, even if he had to kill everybody that stood in his way.

Genres: Vampires, Dark Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Dark Fantasy

526 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 5, 2023

About the author

I'm a self-published author who generally has a dozen projects going at one time. Check out one of my completed series or follow along with what's currently ongoing.

I was born in Portland, OR and I will unashamedly claim that the PNW is the best place to be. Catch me with an iced coffee in hand, even in the rain and snow.

My main genres are romance and fantasy. Some of my content is very dark, but it varies by book/series, so please check the content warnings in each book before diving in!

I hope you enjoy my books and leave me a review with your honest opinion!

Reviews

[tattooedbooknerdgirl35 (Amanda Lynn) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got a copy of Hemlock from the author Madilyn, and this is my honest review.

**TW** Look up your triggers for this book before you read

I have to say Hemlock is a great dark vampire read. It has a really good storyline that will keep you hooked. The characters are pure brilliantly written. I enjoyed every part of this dark read.

The vampires in this book were just so dark and mysterious, more so Lock. I enjoyed reading about his life and how he wanted out from his maker, Liah. This is more into his story and how he became a vampire & what he did and how evil and mysterious he could be, but also the lighter side when he met Sam at the bar she worked out.

They're something you'll want to read about. Lock and his stalker obsession with Sam, and his pull towards her. Then you have what is trying to find out who's trying to hurt his vamps that are in his coven.

Read this dark, spicy, drama packed book you'll just want to sink your teeth into. You won't be disappointed you read.

[❤️Court - Villains Do It Better❤️ · Rating 1 out of 5]

1 Star

DNF @40%

Wanted to DNF pretty early on but i figured I would try to stick with it because I love vampires and was looking forward to having an antihero vampire as the ML. Unfortunately, this was super disappointing. Up to 40% and the hero is still with his "mate" although he "hates" her sooooo much, we still get a sex scene almost every POV of his, in which HE initiated. That's almost EVERY chapter. And they are DESCRIPTIVE sex scenes between him and ow. They have been together for decades too which makes it worst considering heroine is most likely a virgin and gets sick when thinking of doing anything sexual with other guys 🙄. Besides that, I wasn't a fan of the heroine either. She was immature, trying too hard to be "cool", and she knew hero had a gf or wife or whatever and she still kissed him, giving her homewrecker tendencies. I was really hoping she would get with another guy to make up for the lack of chemistry between her and the ML and the numerous sex scenes between ML and ow, but nah. What we got is a double standard and misogynistic and gross book.

On top of that, almost halfway into the book, and we have gotten pretty much nowhere. It's repetitive and nothing is happening to further the plot. It's not just slow burn, it's boring. There is too much robotic and formulaic dialogue and not enough details. I feel like I barely know the characters either. Not good enough and nothing to keep me interested to see if it gets any better.

[Yves V.H. [Slow reading] · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've got lots to say so I thought I should seperate it per category 😅

Characters

Hemlock
DRAMATIC AF. He had me using the dictionary because this man just loves using words that haven't been used since the 20th century. He is very poetic with his words. Morally grey character. He's so twisted in so many ways though I get where he is coming from.

Sam
I love when she's being sarcastic. I hate how she easily folds for Hemlock though but you know what? If a man is willing to kill for me, I might also willingly kneel for him *ehem* But really, I wished she made him suffer just a little bit more. I just wanted to see him hurt just a little bit more 🤏 (Basically, I wanted him to beg)

I really enjoyed each of their perspectives. It is well-written and honestly, I love reading their thoughts. Their inner monologues made me laugh 😂

Plot

It was a bliss to follow. There was a twist that I didn't expect because I was keeping an eye on a different villain (mainly because of their intention) so when the real villain in this book was revealed I was surprised. Or maybe multiple villains in one book? That's brilliant, honestly.

Conclusion

I am not very into cheating (I would literally drop a book as soon as there were signs of cheating) But this one is forgivable. Liah is crazy. At first I was sorry for her but throughout the end, I understand Hemlock's sentiment. Tbh, I actually loved this more than I thought I would.

I truly like how vampires are depicted in this book. It is not cheesy but Hemlock is excellent with his words and romantic in his own ways so I would say its a perfect balance. Definitely read this if you are into morally grey vampires and also into (TW) knife play and blood play because there's a lot of that in here. Also, I think Sam's decision in the end makes a lot of sense. I applaud her for that because that is very intelligent of her. She's realistic 👏

I wished I've read this sooner if I wasn't suddenly so busy 😭
Time to read book 2 💚 Belladonna

🌸 Recieved a copy from the author but all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Crimson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edward Cullen ain’t got shit on Lock.
I’d recommend this one for those who enjoy dark romance and vampires~
- Morally grey serial killing MMC.
-Fated Mates.
-Strong/Badass FMC.
- Villian with no bounds.
- Depraved vampires.
- Vampire illness, turning them completely feral.
- Ginger with anger issues
-Fun with knives.
-Touch her & die vibes.
- Lots of Spice.
- Fated Mates

I've always had a thing for vampires and Hemlock was hands down my favorite (vampire) book of 2023!
Madilyn’s writing is always so good, and I really enjoyed the world-building and getting little peeks at Lock’s past, why he's been planning for decades to turn against the very vampire who turned him, and how his vampire empire came to be. This is very much Lock’s revenge story that gets sidetracked due to a college student named Samara, who he tries his best not to fall for. If Lock wanted everything to go to plan, his best bet would’ve been to kill the redhead bartender who caused him to deviate from his plans.

I absolutely loved watching Lock and Sam's relationship blossom amongst the banter and hundred-dollar bills he threw at her to simply be able to ask her questions along with the bloody situations they often found themselves in.

This book does end up on a cliff hanger, but don't fret; Their story continues in Belladonna!

[Julia (bookish.jka) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In my very limited and recent experience, I’d come to believe that there was a fine line between obsession and love. One was pure and benevolent; the other made you prone to immoral acts and unfettered compulsions. I personally found that obsession felt better and, let’s be honest, it was more fun."

How had I missed the fabulous Malefic Bloodlines series by Madilyn DeRose?! Hemlock is book 1 in the series and it's the start of Lock and Sam's story.

Be warned - this is a dark PNR, vampire/human romance, with lots of violent behaviours and it does end in a cliffhanger. I loved it!

What To Expect:

❥ MF PNR
❥ Morally grey MMC
❥ Fated mates
❥ Badass FMC
❥ Vampire/human
❥ Knife play
❥ Touch her and die
❥ ALL THE STEAM
❥ Cliffhanger ending (book 2 available!)

Bring on Belladonna, Nexus and Tempest!

5 stars

[Lucia Camaioni · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s one of the most beautiful book I’ve ever read.
Frightening, funny, involving, lovingly, so much well written, it’s a must have.
Lock is gorgeous and Sam is one of the best characters you can find in romance.
Can’t wait to read book 2.

[Anna Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this.

If you like books with vampires and possessive men you should definitely give this one a try. I can't wait to read the next look one in the series.

[Dorothy Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, em, gee!!!!! This hot, steamy vampire mystery was one of the best I have ever read.

Hot Vampire, ✔️
Girl with anger issues, ✔️
Weirdos trying to kill, ✔️
Stalkers who end up dead, ✔️

What a book, I was really on the edge of my seat reading this book.
I couldn't put it down and I was up until 3:30am reading!!!!

Yeah, Sam had a crappy life scraping by while going to college. She’s the fiesty red head who really could care less about what guys say to her, and she shuts them all down, until a mysterious grey eyed hottie comes into her work, dropping hundred dollar bills just for her answers to his questions.

She gets creeper/stalker vibes from him, but she goes and meets him after working hours, and she is totally not sure about him because he's so dramatic with her when he answers her questions.

When he tries to ghost her, she goes to his office and gets way more than she bargains for.

Lock is a 123 year old vampire who is psychotic with stalker/killer vibes who is trying to stage a coup even after he winds up at some dive bar in a bad area and meets Sam, who he thought would be easy to use and get rid of permanently. Well, until he realizes that she is actually his mate, even though he has been living with a woman for 75 years who claims she's his mate.

This book has it all, romance, revenge, double crossing, thrills, danger, killing, a coup, and finally love.

If you are into paranormal romance and even if you aren't, you seriously need to read this book. You definitely won't be let down.

I can't wait for the next book in this series to come out because I can't wait to see what Sam and Lock have to deal with their relationship, and with whatever and whomever will be coming for them.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ebook Dragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unhinged devious vampire is here to charm you, but first ready for those trigger warnings! This unapologetically dramatic man is here to bring you banter that will make you snort with laughter and some of his actions will make you want to stab him. It's all part of his plan until he walks into a bar and comes along with a sarcastic immature bartender and something sending his vamps into a frenzy. I wasn't a fan of Lock still hooking up with his maker when he is also messing with Sam. However, I understand why Lock is still playing with Liah as he bids time for his plans to unfold. Nothing about Lock is "healthy" in this book. Sam also had her faults that frustrated me. Hoping to see how they grow in the next book. I can't stop now. Gimme gimme more!


Fav Quotes:

"If I claim you, you're mine. Nobody else touches you. If they do, I will know and they will find themselves at the end of my blade, wishing for death as a release from their torment." - Lock

"Sam needed someone that would raze hell for her. How convenient; I intended to conquer it." - Lock

"I will make a noose out of your entrails and hang you in the entryway." - Lock

"Never forget that I am a monster, Belladonna. I am a poison that all of humanity must fear." - Lock

My Rating System:
1 star: Probably DNF - Lacks structure - Grammatical Errors - Boring characters
2 stars: Not a fan - Struggled to finish - Won't reread - Lacked personality - Lacked storyline
3 stars: Neutral - Underwhelmed - Nothing special - Like the book but we're still troubled by a few components
4 stars: Enjoyed - Concept unique - Dialogue felt real - Invested in characters - Missing cherry on top
5 stars: Creme de la creme - It's addictive - Emotional Impact - Highly Recommend - Feels like you are part of the book

[Ann Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A little slow at beginning, but plot builds up and details a lot about the world. Detailed concept about how their vampirism works. FMC is spirited and a bit immature. MC has a flair for the dramatic and crazy. Morally gray and unapologetic. Looking forward to more character growth

[Clarice]

Sadly dnfing this one mainly bc of too much dialogue and not enough descriptions. I don’t like it when a story reads like a CW script.

[Bryckk Wilkes-DuBois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lock & Samara: A Bizarre, Unhinged Love That Totally Works! 5 Stars

Whoa! What did I just read?! I need to clarify, this ai a good "what did I just read?" This was my first time reading this author and I am beyond impressed.

HEMLOCK, (the name of the main character who goes by "Lock") is about a vampire that was turned over a century ago and finds himself bored. Bored with the monotony of his current position in the hierarchy of his coven and even more bored with his "mate" Liah, his sire and the leader of his coven. Lock believes that Liah has grown soft over the century, as she chooses not to hunt to feed but drink pre-packaged rations.

One day, while out on a murderous hunt, Lock enters a small bar where he meets a feisty bartender named Samara (Sam for short). Usually disgusted by humans, Lock is intrigued by the human bartender and is surprised by his attraction to her. Pretty soon, Sam becomes the exception to his rules concerning human and while he still thinks humans are weak, Sam is slowly but surely becoming one of the most powerful vampires' biggest weaknesses.

Lock is such a clever villain. You will find yourself laughing out loud as he delivers one-liners that make his character even more fascinating. It is no exaggeration to say that this is one of the best Vampire books I've read. In the paranormal romance genre, where there is an oversaturation of sweet, brooding, romantically infused vampires, it's always refreshing to see a vampire with snark, wry humor, and depicted as the true predator they are! Lock is true to his baser instincts; to kill unapologetically, brutally, and lack any sort of empathy for his prey.

Lock is narcissistic, overly sarcastic, and just charmingly disrespectful to everyone he encounters. With Lock, you are tolerated and when no longer useful to him, you met an eventful, theatrical, very violent end. Nevertheless, while Lock becomes softened Sam, but he never fully yields. On occasion when he does reveal his feelings of love for Sam, it's abrupt, humorously macabre, and beautifully unique.

Please, please, please... check the trigger warnings for this story before reading this book. It is not for the faint of heart or cringey folks! I chose to go in blind and even I was taken aback a bit by the level of graphic violence and sexual content that occurs. Keeping in mind with what I said about the Lock above, this is to be expected from his character. Also, be advised that there is OWD and cheating in this story (Hey, he is a villain!). So, if these are your "icks" you may want to select a different book.

There is a sequel in Book two and I will definitely be reading it very soon. *exhale*... I just need a moment! *smile* I loved this book and will be adding the hardcopy to my collection. If you love your vampires edgy, snarky, morbidly romantic, and just straight up savage this is definitely a series you need to sink your teeth into (pun intended). This book was excellent. Brilliant writing, Madilyn DeRose!

Happy reading!

[zoe's_reading_crypt · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Hemlock," the inaugural instalment in Madilyn DeRose's Malefic Bloodlines series, weaves a tale of love, secrets, and the supernatural, creating a mesmerizing world that captivates readers from the very first page. The narrative revolves around the enthralling duo of Lock and Sam, whose lives intersect in unexpected ways, sparking a romance that faces both earthly and otherworldly challenges.

Sam, a university student balancing the rigors of academic life with a job at a local bar, encounters the mysterious Lock one fateful night. Their connection is immediate, setting the stage for a love story that unfolds against the backdrop of Lock's double life. DeRose skilfully builds tension and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the complexities of their relationship.

What makes "Hemlock" stand out is the impeccable balance of dark and humorous elements. Despite the ominous secrets that Lock harbours, there is a subtle undercurrent of humour that permeates the narrative. The banter between Lock and Sam adds a delightful layer to the story, creating a dynamic and relatable couple whose chemistry is palpable. The author's ability to infuse humour into a paranormal tale adds a unique and refreshing touch, making the reading experience all the more enjoyable.

DeRose's writing is a standout feature of the novel. Her prose is evocative, drawing readers into a world where the paranormal feels both tangible and surreal. The exploration of dark elements is handled with finesse, creating an atmosphere of tension and anticipation that keeps the pages turning. The pacing is well-executed, allowing the plot to unfold organically while maintaining a sense of urgency.

One of the strengths of "Hemlock" lies in its portrayal of paranormal elements. DeRose seamlessly integrates supernatural elements into the narrative, making them an integral part of the story rather than mere embellishments. Whether it's the unveiling of Lock's secrets or the exploration of the broader Malefic Bloodlines universe, the author demonstrates a masterful command of the paranormal genre.

As the first book in the series, "Hemlock" sets a high standard for what's to come. The unresolved questions and challenges faced by Lock and Sam leave readers eager for the next instalment. DeRose has created a world that is both enchanting and perilous, and I, for one, am eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Malefic Bloodlines series. "Hemlock" is a spellbinding debut that establishes Madilyn DeRose as a talent to watch in the realm of paranormal romance.

[A.N. Cross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hemlock by Madilyn Derose. It's captivating, and it's creepy, and it's stalkerish, and you should read it. Lock our MMC reminds me of Joe from YOU. Sierieal killer who tries to justify his killings. Lock is a stocker, obsessive, and deliciously devious. He is intensely dangerous and charming when he wants to be. I had a love/hate relationship with him.
I liked the science elements to the story. The attacks on the vampires were a great twist. Lock and his mate are a complex layer to the story. Lock is playing the long game with her. Lock is playing a cat and mouse game with his mate.
Lock is a power-hungry bad boy.
Sam, our FMC, was a typical early adult naive girl. She needed a slap at some points, but our girl had more in her. She really developed and dove into her inner bad girl.
This story has a dark macabre humor.
This isn't your sweet, typical love story it's dark romance at its finest. I am embarrassed to say I liked this book because what does that say about me? Lol. It is a very dark, twisted fantasy. I'm here for it! Very spicy! Our villain feeds his toxic obsession of Sam and continues to presue her. He will remove any and all obstacles in his way.
I really sunk my teeth into this book (pun intended), so let this story suck you in.
Highly recommend this book support indie authors!
Favorite quotes: "Every great man has enemies. It's the nature of being powerful... I will never bow to lesser men, nor will I be defeated... You've captivated my soul and breathe life into me when I've spent what feels like a hundred years and more feeling empty."

[gabby_claire_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

🖤ARC Book Review🖤

These are a Dark Vampire Thriller Romance🧛🏼🔪

Summary: The vampire, Lock, rules over San Francisco with Liah, his maker. But he has been planning to overthrow her for a decade😏

Lock is a major stalker, he’s super psychotic and a dangerous serial killer & best part about it - he’s so freaking unapologetic about with zero morals plus he’s got a flair for the dramatics🤭

Sam is a fiesty young redhead who works at a bar where Lock appears, he offers and offers her £100 for every question she answers about herself🥹

Hemlock has absolutely everything! Smut, revenge schemes, double crossing, murder mystery vibes and i love how it’s super detailed about their version of vampirism - found this super interesting!!

The character development of Lock & Sam is so beautifully written!!🥰 I love how Lock brings out Sam’s dark side whereas Sam brings out Lock’s gentler side (only for her😈)

lots of great spicey scenes which is always a bonus😈🥵 & in some strange places 🌉😏

Absolutely in love with these two books and I’m so happy I got the change to be an ARC reader🥹🥹

🧛🏻Vampire Romance
👀 MMC Stalker
👩🏻‍🦰 Feisty Redhead FMC
💀 Touch her & die
🖤 Dark Romance

[Lara Dmello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hemlock, a mysterious, evil and cold bodied vampire who has lived more than a century and is powerful with plans to take over his partner/ ex-mate Aureliah power over dan Francisco.

Samara, a sweet, feisty girl, who left her family at 18 due to the some issues and came to San Francisco. A student of architecture and works at a bar where she meets the Hemlock.

I loved the book even though there were sexy scenes which made me blush out and at some point terrified when blood was used. But i loved the way the book was written, the gore scenes, the wordplay between hemlock and samara.

Overall i liked the character development of both, samara and hemlock and it has a great storyline which kept me going on for more. I liked reading about their life and Lock's obsession with Sam and how he was reay to give up everything for her.

The twist and turns of this novel was amazing that it kept me wondering who is it gonna be.

I recommend this book to everyone who is in vampires, dark, spicy and romance scenes filled with revenge!

[Nicole Deanne Veracruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't really sure if I would like this book. And it turns out I absolutely love this book. I understand that the relationship between Lock and Sam isn't healthy. But I personally like a psycho man. This book grab me from the get-go and wouldn't let me go. I took an instant dislike to Liah. But instantly fell in love with Lock. I really would have loved to have found out what choice Ryan made. I'd also like to know does Alex find out about what Lock really is. I did find myself getting quite frustrated with Sam because she's so naive and oblivious to so much. Seeing the person at the beach and then again on campus and choosing not to tell Lock is going to bite them in the butt. I can't wait to read the next book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kaneisha Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay okay okayyyyy…first please check your trigger warnings/content warnings!

Now that that warning has been announced…ugh I know we talk about book boyfriends and shadow daddies but Mr. Lock…the irresistible LOCK. He is totally unhinged and ruthless but there’s something deeper in that black soulless heart of his. He is yumm and hilarious and UNAPOLOGETICALLY him.

Sam…my girl Sam. Sometimes I wanted to punch her in the face but out of love. She’s no pushover and lowkey has a dark side that I’m glad she begins to unleash.

I enjoyed this read so much. Legit laughing out loud at the banter, and the side characters definitely are memorable and loved. And let’s not forget the spice!!! Which also compliments the entire plot of the book.

This gave me everything I needed in a vampire dark romance. And there’s a sequel out!
Definitely check it out

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Dark romance
- Vampire romance
- Paranormal romance
- Morally grey

This book got me in its grip and did not let go! I like rooting for morally grey characters and Lock fits the description. He has been living with his creator Liah for decades and is bored of her. He is planning a coup to take over her territory, but this will take time. Luckily, he is patient.

To pass the time, he amuses himself by spending time in a dive bar. There he meets the sassy Sam, who is the bartender. Imagine Lock's surprise to realize this fiery woman is his mate... and not Liah.

This book was intense and dark and I loved every minute of it!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A creative and dark paranormal romance story with morally grey characters.
Lock is a psychotic bloodthirsty serial killer and vampire, and he has his sights set on Sam. His pursuit is deadly, dramatic, obsessive and possessive, but he's infuriatingly bewitched by her and noone will stand in his way, not even his maker Liah.
Sam is witty, stubborn and naive, but she embraces her own darkness as well and is pushed to the limits alongside Lock.
The insights into coven life and Lock's history are intriguing, and it's suspenseful with the threat of multiple enemies lurking.
This story contains lots of violence, torture, death and spice, an intense plot, and villainous unapologetic characters.
A great dark fantasy read for vampire lovers, looking forward to the next book!

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're looking for a different kind of vampire read, give Hemlock a shot! This dark, vampire romance is such a refreshing change. What can I say, I'd let Lock stalk me any day 😈

I found Sam so relatable! And reading about a serial killer in action, especially when he's our vicious anti-hero? Love it. DeRose did a great job pulling me into this world with her writing, and the characters have the best banter (P.S. her's always do 😜) Only reason this was 4 stars instead of 5 for me is because I felt the ending fell a little flat? Like there was a ton of build-up throughout most of the novel, but the main event happened so fast!! I wanted more of that final showdown drama 🗡️

Before you read, check 👏🏻 your 👏🏻 triggers 👏🏻

[Kate Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like your vampires cuddly then this is not the book for you, Sam is not a damsel in distress and Lock is definitely not your sparkly angst ridden vampire looking for his soul.

At its core it is a sweet love story and mix of that and the very dark parts make it a compelling read. I love the dual pov as you get to know both characters and the obsessive nature of Lock.

There is plenty of sex death and torture (read the warnings at the start, she ain’t kidding with those!) along with an engaging storyline and a mystery to solve, if that sounds like your thing then I highly recommend!

[Bonny.bookdragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Despite how hard I'd been wanting to fight against it. I wanted her."

🖤 Dark Vampire Romance
🖤 Morally Grey
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Unapologetic Villan

This was such a rollercoster ride. I had so many different emotions while reading it, but in the end, I was blown away with it.

It's thrilling, dark, twisted, and exciting. Our FMC is spirited if not a bit naive, and our MMC is the perfect combo of morally grey, dramatic, and crazy.
Now I'm sure there are parts in which I'm suppose to question what's happening and my own sanity and thoughts along with them but no matter how dark it was I couldn't blame our FMC for her choices as the MMC was written so beautifully 😅

I look forward to starting my eArc of Belladonna, I can't wait to find out what happens next!

[Jamie G · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was up way too late reading this. Sam and Lock's interactions were so intriguing and often funny. Then there were the intense ones. I loved the banter, and there was plenty of humor mixed in with the delectable darkness.

The mystery of the subplot kept me guessing.

One of my favorite quotes was: "Having my affection is not the idyllic thing you might dream of. I will ruin you."

It had a little more graphic violence and descriptive torture than I was expecting, but some people may like that. The trigger warnings are not lying. Believe them, but don't fear them.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Aly S · Rating 5 out of 5]

This darkness in this book is delicious.

This book is for the ladies who are tempted by the darkness. Who are able to love the darkness in people instead of just loving people despite the darkness.

Our MMC, Lock, is made of nightmares. From birth, he had a destiny of darkness. With convention, we should think our Sam could bring him to the light, but what if our dark knight brings her to the darkness instead?

Sam says, "At least you'll be there to control me." Lock replies, "Belladonna, I'll be the one making sure nobody escapes so you can sate your bloodlust."

One of my favorite (safe for work) quotes is: "Lock, the tormenter of men, was my peace."

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madilyn DeRose never misses! I loved every minute of this book and the way the author writes is breathtaking... It sucks you in from start to finish. Sam is a sassy, feisty FMC and Lock is a morally grey (morally devoid as the author said 😏) unapologetic, arrogant a$$hole who won't let anyone touch what is his. Lock is great but a special shout out to Mark... Be still my beating heart 💜😩
I LOVED the twist and the constant undertone of knowing something is coming but never knowing from where or from whom (insert Jaws theme tune here 👀). I squealed, I gasped, I laughed out loud. Read. This. Book.

I cannot wait for the next one in the series!

[Bo0kSLoth · Rating 3 out of 5]

** 3.5 stars 🌟 **

Read this triggers and pay attention to time author's comment at the beginning of the book. It's important I believe because as you read this book you need to remember there are no antiheros to be found here. No FMC that will soften the edges of a dark villain. If anything expect the edges of the FMC to be sharpened

There are macabre moments and dark, twisted ones too. But overall, the story between this FMC and the MMC are deep with a sense of gothic intrigue and passion.

This story is definitely not for everyone.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book I have read from this author and she hasn’t disappointed.
Hemlock is a dark steamy romance book and it was filled to the brim with spice, revenge, danger and a hot vampire.
You have heard of werewolf mates and now we have vampire mates and Lock is meant to kill his.
This book is really well written and parts are rather funny.
The fiery redhead bartender is my favourite character throughout.
I like that we find out Locks past and his bad side and also his good.
The storyline kept me hooked and wanting to know more.
I can’t wait for number two and definitely recommend.
I received a ARC and this is my review that is completely voluntary.

[Elisabeth Copeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This steamy vampire read is everything you could want in a book. Action, steam, serial unaliver, and attacks on the vampire race. This author writes MMCs that you love to hate and FMCs that are strong and can bring the MMCs to their knees.

In Hemlock you get introduced to Sam, a human college student, and Hemlock (Lock), a vampire over a hundred years old. They are great together. The dialogue is witty, and the action and mystery are intense. It is a must read.

This is a dark romance and there will be triggers. There is graphic vi01ence, t0rtur3, and murd3r. This book also ends on a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to reading the next installment.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Lock the second he was introduced. He gives off that Damon (TVD) energy that most, if not all of us, love. Morally grey, don’t fluff with his girl, sarcastic, unhinged - doesn’t have an oz of patience for anyone’s scheiße.

Lock has been stuck in a situationship with Liah for the last century. She believes they’re mates. But all he’s truly wanted is to take the city from her.

Save love for the fairytales cause you’re not getting it from Lock… or wait, not until he meets Sam.

Sam is Lock’s means to an end. She is naive, stubborn, witty, and totally unfazed by Lock… until she isn’t.
The Belladonna to his Hemlock.

Together they will run San Francisco.