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Club Lavender Duet #1
The Lavender Phantom
Hi, I’m Sophie Taylor. Normal job. Normal life. Not-so-normal kinks.
All the ‘normal’ shatters when my little sister Melanie comes home bruised. And she can’t remember why.
So I go the club where it happened. Undercover. Angry. Ready to embrace a part of my past I’ve almost forgotten.
Down in the dark basement, I find a tied-up hot stranger. He’s tempting me, but is he a friend or foe? Doesn't matter. I’m done playing nice.
Club Lavender’s violence and corruption? I’ll withstand it all. But this stranger’s touch? Should I save him and ruin us all? Do I dare give in to desire?
The Lavender Phantom> is a dark romantic thriller and the first book in the completed Club Lavender Duet. It can be read as a standalone and comes with some content warnings.
Pillow your reading nook and get whisked away to Chicago’s most sinister corners. Things will get steamy. And deadly. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
All the ‘normal’ shatters when my little sister Melanie comes home bruised. And she can’t remember why.
So I go the club where it happened. Undercover. Angry. Ready to embrace a part of my past I’ve almost forgotten.
Down in the dark basement, I find a tied-up hot stranger. He’s tempting me, but is he a friend or foe? Doesn't matter. I’m done playing nice.
Club Lavender’s violence and corruption? I’ll withstand it all. But this stranger’s touch? Should I save him and ruin us all? Do I dare give in to desire?
The Lavender Phantom> is a dark romantic thriller and the first book in the completed Club Lavender Duet. It can be read as a standalone and comes with some content warnings.
Pillow your reading nook and get whisked away to Chicago’s most sinister corners. Things will get steamy. And deadly. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 11, 2023
60 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Lainey Delaroque
11 books257 followersIndulge your hidden side with Lainey's books: packed with action, danger, and sizzling romance.
Lainey Delaroque started writing at eleven and studied Journalism only to rediscover her love for fiction. She writes stories packed with action, danger, and sizzling romance. She loves dangerous, fantastical worlds and morally grey characters. Lainey’s books are a mashup of her lived experience as a kinky pansexual immigrant and her relentless imagination. They are a refuge for those looking to indulge their deepest, darkest parts. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, watching, or gaming, because there are too many great stories in the world and too little time.
Lainey Delaroque started writing at eleven and studied Journalism only to rediscover her love for fiction. She writes stories packed with action, danger, and sizzling romance. She loves dangerous, fantastical worlds and morally grey characters. Lainey’s books are a mashup of her lived experience as a kinky pansexual immigrant and her relentless imagination. They are a refuge for those looking to indulge their deepest, darkest parts. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, watching, or gaming, because there are too many great stories in the world and too little time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 30, 2021
As a debut book The Lavender Phantom is a pretty decent offering by an author with a clear writing talent and a great imagination. It always held enough mystery, enough tension and suspense to keep me reading. There wasn't a huge amount of romance in this story BUT that is fine because it's only book #1 in a series, so there is still plenty of opportunity for that connection to be developed.
I really did enjoy the book and it never felt an onerous task to jump back in. Once I did I was quickly captured by the story, not wanting to put it down rather than not wanting to pick it up!
On the whole I liked Sophie, even as she annoyed the heck out of me by blindly rushing headlong into one catastrophe after another. That girl really needed an intervention and it took her teenage sister to provide one. Eventually she did realise her ownstupidity foolishness, but it was just a little late in the book for my liking. I would have liked to see her grow a little more throughout the book, rather than doing what felt like a sudden 180 towards the end. That said I loved that she DID wise up and stopped trying to be some sort of superhero in a skimpy dress! Personally I would also have liked her BDSM experience, her ability to channel pain, to play into strengthening her during her experiences at Lavender, it felt as though the intention was there but it wasn't quite executed. However this is only book #1, so these avenues could be explored more in the next book.
The whole idea of Club Lavender was very fascinating, and the way it had been perverted into something so dark definitely worked for me. The world building was solid and whilst there was a lack of in-depth explanation relating to the bad guys, the hows and whys of their actions, this felt quite deliberate. I have a strong feeling that the bigger picture will be revealed over the course of the remaining books, that the author was balancing potential plot spoilers against flow and credibility of this story. It did sometimes leave me feeling a little unconvinced at certain events, at the power some people held but I'm sure all will eventually be revealed. A woman and a couple of thugs seemed able to control dozens of unwilling and scared workers, all of whom were able to leave at the end of the night. Every single one of them could walk away at any point. I just needed to be shown a little more of how they were all kept in line, why they were terrified but allowed themselves to be continually treated in such a bad way.
Another very minor disappointment, also of the "telling not showing" variety, was in regard to Sophie, initially at least, enjoying her work at Lavender. I struggled to believe she liked it at all since the interactions we saw whilst she was there tended to be negative ones. Just telling me she liked the glamour, the pay and the buzz wasn't enough. I needed to be convinced through descriptions of her thoughts, feelings and emotions. Through her senses and desires.
The ending, or ending for now, was high octane and very fast paced, incredibly exciting. Very edge of the seat and decently convincing in its plausibility. Whilst I personally would have liked it to have been a little more fleshed out, there was absolutely nothing wrong with what was provided. I'm definitely in for reading the next book.
I really did enjoy the book and it never felt an onerous task to jump back in. Once I did I was quickly captured by the story, not wanting to put it down rather than not wanting to pick it up!
On the whole I liked Sophie, even as she annoyed the heck out of me by blindly rushing headlong into one catastrophe after another. That girl really needed an intervention and it took her teenage sister to provide one. Eventually she did realise her own
The whole idea of Club Lavender was very fascinating, and the way it had been perverted into something so dark definitely worked for me. The world building was solid and whilst there was a lack of in-depth explanation relating to the bad guys, the hows and whys of their actions, this felt quite deliberate. I have a strong feeling that the bigger picture will be revealed over the course of the remaining books, that the author was balancing potential plot spoilers against flow and credibility of this story. It did sometimes leave me feeling a little unconvinced at certain events, at the power some people held but I'm sure all will eventually be revealed. A woman and a couple of thugs seemed able to control dozens of unwilling and scared workers, all of whom were able to leave at the end of the night. Every single one of them could walk away at any point. I just needed to be shown a little more of how they were all kept in line, why they were terrified but allowed themselves to be continually treated in such a bad way.
Another very minor disappointment, also of the "telling not showing" variety, was in regard to Sophie, initially at least, enjoying her work at Lavender. I struggled to believe she liked it at all since the interactions we saw whilst she was there tended to be negative ones. Just telling me she liked the glamour, the pay and the buzz wasn't enough. I needed to be convinced through descriptions of her thoughts, feelings and emotions. Through her senses and desires.
The ending, or ending for now, was high octane and very fast paced, incredibly exciting. Very edge of the seat and decently convincing in its plausibility. Whilst I personally would have liked it to have been a little more fleshed out, there was absolutely nothing wrong with what was provided. I'm definitely in for reading the next book.
January 11, 2021
Finding a new author is always a treat,and finding Lainey was one of those.
Reading The Lavender Phantom,i would never have guessed this is her first book,it’s thát good!
A good,dark, storyline,strong characters,well written,it has it all and i am véry glad i found her.
And i know i want to hear more....a lot more.
Sophie and her 10 year younger sister Melanie have been on their own after their parents died in a car-crash.
Chief,man who’s gang she was close to,sent her to Chicago to start a new life,and she’s been doing her best to look after Lanie as best she could. Forgetting her past as lock-picking thief.
Until Sophie was getting messages on her phone and one day,Lanie returns home in tears after being gone for more than a day.
Sophie is being forced to pick up her past and find a way into a club called Lavender.
Because that’s where her little sister was.....and where the video sent to Sophie was recorded.
Lavender is a seedy place with hidden parts,and in one of those hidden parts,Sophie finds a man tied to a chair.
Who is he,and why is he in this situation? Can’t he find a way to escape?
When she gets the opportunity to help him,she hears the how and why,and it shocks her.
The reason he can’t leave is devastating and she knows she’ll have to do her best to help solve his predicament.
But she can’t do it alone....
As i said,it is a very well written story.
One that drew me right in and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
A story i wholeheartedly recommend to the reader that loves their stories to be dark.
It does have elements of abuse and rape,so if this is a trigger,i suggest you skip this one.
I for one am looking forward to the next!
Reading The Lavender Phantom,i would never have guessed this is her first book,it’s thát good!
A good,dark, storyline,strong characters,well written,it has it all and i am véry glad i found her.
And i know i want to hear more....a lot more.
Sophie and her 10 year younger sister Melanie have been on their own after their parents died in a car-crash.
Chief,man who’s gang she was close to,sent her to Chicago to start a new life,and she’s been doing her best to look after Lanie as best she could. Forgetting her past as lock-picking thief.
Until Sophie was getting messages on her phone and one day,Lanie returns home in tears after being gone for more than a day.
Sophie is being forced to pick up her past and find a way into a club called Lavender.
Because that’s where her little sister was.....and where the video sent to Sophie was recorded.
Lavender is a seedy place with hidden parts,and in one of those hidden parts,Sophie finds a man tied to a chair.
Who is he,and why is he in this situation? Can’t he find a way to escape?
When she gets the opportunity to help him,she hears the how and why,and it shocks her.
The reason he can’t leave is devastating and she knows she’ll have to do her best to help solve his predicament.
But she can’t do it alone....
As i said,it is a very well written story.
One that drew me right in and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
A story i wholeheartedly recommend to the reader that loves their stories to be dark.
It does have elements of abuse and rape,so if this is a trigger,i suggest you skip this one.
I for one am looking forward to the next!
January 18, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I went into this book with eyes wide open, and I’m so pleased.
Sophie works a dull fast food job by day so she can play out her fantasies with rope kink and take care of her 14-year-old sister Melanie the rest of the time. Life is as normal as can be until Melanie, wanting to help bring in some money, visits the Lavender Club for a job offer and barely escapes with her life.
Hellbent on getting revenge on Melanie’s attackers, Sophie decides to infiltrate the club by getting hired. Dying her blond locks a bright red and transforming into another persona entirely, Sophie wades into Lavender’s elegant tea club atmosphere knowing more than simply beverages are up for consumption.
Aided in her task by mysterious notes and texts, Sophie realizes that something far more nefarious is happening when she stumbles across a bound man in an unused freezer. Could he be the Lavender Phantom of which the myths whisper?
Not knowing exactly what I was getting into this one, I was happy to become so engrossed in the tale that I still am not sure how to classify the book. Dark romance? Thriller? Kink? How about all of the above?
When Melanie comes home after escaping the Lavender Club, Sophie knows nothing will stop her from finding something which will close the club permanently, but Sophie discovers more than she bargains for. The soothing colors and scents call to her aesthetic, but the underlying poison is unable to be ignored. Part refined tea club for wealthy gentlemen callers on the surface, a different current swirls below, one with drugs, money, and abuse. There are a lot of mysteries to be solved within these pages, and the author lays them out beautifully.
But if you’re easily triggered, be wary. Included as well are dub con and non con situations; abuse, sexual cruelty, rope and air play, bondage, attempted rape, and more.
If none of the above bothers you, then I say go for it.
I went into this book with eyes wide open, and I’m so pleased.
Sophie works a dull fast food job by day so she can play out her fantasies with rope kink and take care of her 14-year-old sister Melanie the rest of the time. Life is as normal as can be until Melanie, wanting to help bring in some money, visits the Lavender Club for a job offer and barely escapes with her life.
Hellbent on getting revenge on Melanie’s attackers, Sophie decides to infiltrate the club by getting hired. Dying her blond locks a bright red and transforming into another persona entirely, Sophie wades into Lavender’s elegant tea club atmosphere knowing more than simply beverages are up for consumption.
Aided in her task by mysterious notes and texts, Sophie realizes that something far more nefarious is happening when she stumbles across a bound man in an unused freezer. Could he be the Lavender Phantom of which the myths whisper?
Not knowing exactly what I was getting into this one, I was happy to become so engrossed in the tale that I still am not sure how to classify the book. Dark romance? Thriller? Kink? How about all of the above?
When Melanie comes home after escaping the Lavender Club, Sophie knows nothing will stop her from finding something which will close the club permanently, but Sophie discovers more than she bargains for. The soothing colors and scents call to her aesthetic, but the underlying poison is unable to be ignored. Part refined tea club for wealthy gentlemen callers on the surface, a different current swirls below, one with drugs, money, and abuse. There are a lot of mysteries to be solved within these pages, and the author lays them out beautifully.
But if you’re easily triggered, be wary. Included as well are dub con and non con situations; abuse, sexual cruelty, rope and air play, bondage, attempted rape, and more.
If none of the above bothers you, then I say go for it.
April 28, 2022
Surprising and Suspenseful
4 stars
“Sensual is great. There are times for it, like today, but other days invite us to walk on the edge of the acceptable. And I have a feeling you might want to walk with me.”
The Lavender Phantom took me by complete surprise. There's so many elements and undertones of dark romance, suspense and thriller, kink and tension, it really made for such an interesting story that I really got transfixed into.
We meet our heroine Sophie who would do just about anything for her and her sister. She’s really strong headed but a little foolish at times, but so completely selfless. She gets tasked with having to take on a job that would essentially change her life. And that's where Club Lavender and The Lavender Phantom come into play. A club that was once a sanctuary for people to feel freedom, turned into something evil and vile once it got taken over.
Were later introduced to Damien, the Lavender Phantom, and the way his story was played out was like none other. It was really interesting to see him being played out as the Phantom, not Damien. While there wasn’t a whole lot of romance brewing between the two, you quickly could feel the connection with him and Sophie, and I loved how romance wasn’t the center of the plot for this, it was about saving the innocent.
There’s a few things that sort of got to me, I felt some things in the book were just explained, told, rather than showing, like Sophie’s time in the club. She was also a part of this BDSM thing in the very beginning, where she had a high tolerance for pain, so I would’ve liked to see that played out into the rest of the story. And there were a few unanswered questions, but I think a lot of that will be explained in book 2. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but you know their story isn't done yet. And I’m excited to read more about Damien, he’s so mysterious. But take this book with some caution if you have some triggers. It's a wonderful debut with an intense world and I just know the next book will be just as exciting.
4 stars
“Sensual is great. There are times for it, like today, but other days invite us to walk on the edge of the acceptable. And I have a feeling you might want to walk with me.”
The Lavender Phantom took me by complete surprise. There's so many elements and undertones of dark romance, suspense and thriller, kink and tension, it really made for such an interesting story that I really got transfixed into.
We meet our heroine Sophie who would do just about anything for her and her sister. She’s really strong headed but a little foolish at times, but so completely selfless. She gets tasked with having to take on a job that would essentially change her life. And that's where Club Lavender and The Lavender Phantom come into play. A club that was once a sanctuary for people to feel freedom, turned into something evil and vile once it got taken over.
Were later introduced to Damien, the Lavender Phantom, and the way his story was played out was like none other. It was really interesting to see him being played out as the Phantom, not Damien. While there wasn’t a whole lot of romance brewing between the two, you quickly could feel the connection with him and Sophie, and I loved how romance wasn’t the center of the plot for this, it was about saving the innocent.
There’s a few things that sort of got to me, I felt some things in the book were just explained, told, rather than showing, like Sophie’s time in the club. She was also a part of this BDSM thing in the very beginning, where she had a high tolerance for pain, so I would’ve liked to see that played out into the rest of the story. And there were a few unanswered questions, but I think a lot of that will be explained in book 2. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but you know their story isn't done yet. And I’m excited to read more about Damien, he’s so mysterious. But take this book with some caution if you have some triggers. It's a wonderful debut with an intense world and I just know the next book will be just as exciting.
February 3, 2021
This book may not be your cup of tea (trigger warning), but if you do read it you will find well developed characters and an interesting story.
The main character, Sophia, suddenly finds herself alone with her younger sister, Melanie, after their parents die. What should she do, where can she turn, who can help her? Sophia goes with her sister to the one person she still trusts, but the help she gets is not what she expects.
Sophia and her sister settle into a new normal in a new city. Sophia ends up with a job that is not very fulfilling for her but allows her to keep an eye on her sister and also lets her work on skills that she hopes will lead to owning her own business in the future.
When offered a well-paying job, Sophia sees a way to get ahead financially. She only has to get some papers from an office in The Club Lavender, how hard could that be? This is a book you may not want to put down once you start reading it.
The main character, Sophia, suddenly finds herself alone with her younger sister, Melanie, after their parents die. What should she do, where can she turn, who can help her? Sophia goes with her sister to the one person she still trusts, but the help she gets is not what she expects.
Sophia and her sister settle into a new normal in a new city. Sophia ends up with a job that is not very fulfilling for her but allows her to keep an eye on her sister and also lets her work on skills that she hopes will lead to owning her own business in the future.
When offered a well-paying job, Sophia sees a way to get ahead financially. She only has to get some papers from an office in The Club Lavender, how hard could that be? This is a book you may not want to put down once you start reading it.
August 18, 2021
Sophie Taylor is just trying to live her life without having to worry one hundred times a day. Being an independent woman who works in a fast food place has its trivialities and her fears for her younger sister have grown worse. She just wants to be able to provide for her family while keeping herself out of trouble. But, of course, that is impossible when a mysterious employer offers her a job carrying out a task that she did in a life she is trying to forget.
I was pleasantly surprised when I read this as I wasn’t expecting to be gripped by the first few chapters.
The world building was great and the sense of mystery during the first half definitely kept me hooked. That would have to be my favourite aspect of this book as the action and mystery was exciting and interesting to read about, especially as you delve into the club itself and more questions appear.
My only problem was the love interest. He was just overly cliche and I felt like he had no personality whatsoever since he seemingly didn’t develop one because he relied on his looks. A lot of the time he was cringe to read about and I struggled to get through some of the more intimate scenes with him and Sophie because of this.
However, this is an great debut book and I did enjoy reading it.
Stars ~ 3.5
I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
I was pleasantly surprised when I read this as I wasn’t expecting to be gripped by the first few chapters.
The world building was great and the sense of mystery during the first half definitely kept me hooked. That would have to be my favourite aspect of this book as the action and mystery was exciting and interesting to read about, especially as you delve into the club itself and more questions appear.
My only problem was the love interest. He was just overly cliche and I felt like he had no personality whatsoever since he seemingly didn’t develop one because he relied on his looks. A lot of the time he was cringe to read about and I struggled to get through some of the more intimate scenes with him and Sophie because of this.
However, this is an great debut book and I did enjoy reading it.
Stars ~ 3.5
I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
February 13, 2021
4.5/5
Three words. One. Bed. Trope. The Lavender Phantom was not exactly what I was expecting, but I was very pleasantly surprised. I normally don't read books like this, but after the beginning (and its initial BDSM), I was quickly hooked. Delaroque wrote with so much beautiful detail, and from start, to finish the book was an incredibly exciting read. I loved the chemistry and the banter between Sophie and Damien (who lowkey gives me Ben Barnes as Prince Caspian vibes, but I'm not mad about it) and while the book was mostly told from Sophie's point of view, I really enjoyed how, every once in a while, there would be a chapter told in The Lavender Phantom's point of view. There was smut, drama, suspense, and overall amazing writing. I LOVED the ending and how well the book wrapped up.
"maybe not all his choices were bad"
While not my typical cup of tea (I prefer Earl Grey 😉), I really enjoyed this book and am definitely looking forward to continuing the series! It's such a nice feeling when you discover a new/upcoming author and I'm so excited to see what Lainey Delaroque does next <3
Three words. One. Bed. Trope. The Lavender Phantom was not exactly what I was expecting, but I was very pleasantly surprised. I normally don't read books like this, but after the beginning (and its initial BDSM), I was quickly hooked. Delaroque wrote with so much beautiful detail, and from start, to finish the book was an incredibly exciting read. I loved the chemistry and the banter between Sophie and Damien (who lowkey gives me Ben Barnes as Prince Caspian vibes, but I'm not mad about it) and while the book was mostly told from Sophie's point of view, I really enjoyed how, every once in a while, there would be a chapter told in The Lavender Phantom's point of view. There was smut, drama, suspense, and overall amazing writing. I LOVED the ending and how well the book wrapped up.
"maybe not all his choices were bad"
While not my typical cup of tea (I prefer Earl Grey 😉), I really enjoyed this book and am definitely looking forward to continuing the series! It's such a nice feeling when you discover a new/upcoming author and I'm so excited to see what Lainey Delaroque does next <3
February 9, 2021
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A debut novel, but you wouldn't know it. The book has pace, the book has tension, there are believable characters and a strong overarching message. It is an action-packed thriller following Sophie who'd been left to look after her kid sister after both of their parents had died in a car crash. The story is centered around Club Lavender, a corrupt late-night tea room. Sophie's sister is lured into the club and gets into trouble. Sophie hatches out a simmering revenge plot. She infiltrates the tea room, meeting a mysterious man, Damien, and his band of accomplices. Within the club, there is a broad cast of characters which left me guessing who I could trust. The story is left open for the next installment, I can't wait to see if Club Lavender can be restored to its former glory and what that would mean for Sophie and Damien’s relationship.
A debut novel, but you wouldn't know it. The book has pace, the book has tension, there are believable characters and a strong overarching message. It is an action-packed thriller following Sophie who'd been left to look after her kid sister after both of their parents had died in a car crash. The story is centered around Club Lavender, a corrupt late-night tea room. Sophie's sister is lured into the club and gets into trouble. Sophie hatches out a simmering revenge plot. She infiltrates the tea room, meeting a mysterious man, Damien, and his band of accomplices. Within the club, there is a broad cast of characters which left me guessing who I could trust. The story is left open for the next installment, I can't wait to see if Club Lavender can be restored to its former glory and what that would mean for Sophie and Damien’s relationship.
February 7, 2021
This book was a bit darker than I first expected, but it had quite a bit of dark, kinky romance mixed with some serious suspense. The plot was really good though and there were just enough twists and surprises that it left you guessing and hanging on for the next chapter. It made for a fun weekend read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2021
I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I fell in love with this book once I got past the first rope play scene (I was not expecting it right out the gate). The characters are flawed and you want to hug them and shake them because they are trying really hard to do things by themselves *ahem* Sophie *cough*.
Damien and Sophie are like the perfect couple in the sense that they compliment each other and push each other to strive for better things.
I love how the author handled the topics of rape, abuse, kinky sex, drugs (unfortuantely the tea is not safe for the poor boys and girls in that unfortunate late night teahouse Lavender that was originally supposed to be a safe place for people to take refuge, practice safe sex and things like that. Spoiler alert: it does not become that.
I love the dual point of view between the Lavender Phantom and Sophie. Also, Sophie picked the locks accurately and she did not go all Hollywood with only one bobby pin and done. Thank you so much to the author for doing that.
I'm already like okay, I need the second book after reading the first one.
If you want my full review with some spoils in it, you can check out my review https://bookgirlreviewsbooks.blogspot...
I know I cannot go higher than five on this star rating but I'd give it 500 out of 5 stars.
I fell in love with this book once I got past the first rope play scene (I was not expecting it right out the gate). The characters are flawed and you want to hug them and shake them because they are trying really hard to do things by themselves *ahem* Sophie *cough*.
Damien and Sophie are like the perfect couple in the sense that they compliment each other and push each other to strive for better things.
I love how the author handled the topics of rape, abuse, kinky sex, drugs (unfortuantely the tea is not safe for the poor boys and girls in that unfortunate late night teahouse Lavender that was originally supposed to be a safe place for people to take refuge, practice safe sex and things like that. Spoiler alert: it does not become that.
I love the dual point of view between the Lavender Phantom and Sophie. Also, Sophie picked the locks accurately and she did not go all Hollywood with only one bobby pin and done. Thank you so much to the author for doing that.
I'm already like okay, I need the second book after reading the first one.
If you want my full review with some spoils in it, you can check out my review https://bookgirlreviewsbooks.blogspot...
I know I cannot go higher than five on this star rating but I'd give it 500 out of 5 stars.
February 8, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
3.75/5
The Lavender Phantom was such a rollercoaster treat. There were aspects of it that I really admired, more importantly how it revolved around the idea of consent. The author tried her best to showcase the importance of it through various examples throughout the book. Sure, there were some triggering moments, (which the author had graciously mentioned at the start of the book. I admire her for that, thank you.) but every controversial "incident" only helped with enlightening readers about its significance.
Sophie was an intense character, a torn sister between her duties and curiosity which led her to a pitfall of errors and blunders that she brought upon herself.
Club Lavender was beautifully designed, all those intricate details which were thought about led to an interesting form of worldbuilding. Distinct characters and the air of mystery that constantly shadowed the Club only to draw our attention in further.
I did, however, not understand Sophie's attraction to Damien. Their chemistry seemed forced, maybe it because the storyline felt more like narration rather than a narrative? The idea of all the intense pivotal scenes being told rather than shown did lessen my interest slightly but overall it was a good read.
Lastly, congratulations to Lainey on her Debut Novel. I cannot wait to read more of her work in the future.
3.75/5
The Lavender Phantom was such a rollercoaster treat. There were aspects of it that I really admired, more importantly how it revolved around the idea of consent. The author tried her best to showcase the importance of it through various examples throughout the book. Sure, there were some triggering moments, (which the author had graciously mentioned at the start of the book. I admire her for that, thank you.) but every controversial "incident" only helped with enlightening readers about its significance.
Sophie was an intense character, a torn sister between her duties and curiosity which led her to a pitfall of errors and blunders that she brought upon herself.
Club Lavender was beautifully designed, all those intricate details which were thought about led to an interesting form of worldbuilding. Distinct characters and the air of mystery that constantly shadowed the Club only to draw our attention in further.
I did, however, not understand Sophie's attraction to Damien. Their chemistry seemed forced, maybe it because the storyline felt more like narration rather than a narrative? The idea of all the intense pivotal scenes being told rather than shown did lessen my interest slightly but overall it was a good read.
Lastly, congratulations to Lainey on her Debut Novel. I cannot wait to read more of her work in the future.
September 2, 2021
After reading the Brigand Chief's prologue I wasn't enthralled by Delaroque's writing style - the third person didn't sit well with me. After reading the second part of the prologue (about the father and the boy) I was starting to question whether I wanted to continue. It certainly was an intriguing story but I couldn't read a whole book in this style.
I'm glad I persevered past the prologue because the Lavender Phantom was a fabulous read.
Once I got into the chapters (which, thankfully, were written in the first person) I became completely sucked in by the mystery of the story. It was an unusual plot and I never felt as though I'd read parts of it before (a danger when you read a lot in the same genre). Delaroque's writing was incredibly descriptive, maintaining a delicate balance between emotion, thought, and action.
The Lavender Phantom gets really dark at times but manages to deal with the subject matter sensitively and realistically (or as realistically as fiction like this can). On the other hand, it also depicts moments of peaceful harmony and some amazingly strong relationships while entertaining us with a kick-ass heroine and aher brilliant crew.
I'm glad I persevered past the prologue because the Lavender Phantom was a fabulous read.
Once I got into the chapters (which, thankfully, were written in the first person) I became completely sucked in by the mystery of the story. It was an unusual plot and I never felt as though I'd read parts of it before (a danger when you read a lot in the same genre). Delaroque's writing was incredibly descriptive, maintaining a delicate balance between emotion, thought, and action.
The Lavender Phantom gets really dark at times but manages to deal with the subject matter sensitively and realistically (or as realistically as fiction like this can). On the other hand, it also depicts moments of peaceful harmony and some amazingly strong relationships while entertaining us with a kick-ass heroine and aher brilliant crew.
September 11, 2021
Wow , Lainey what a fantastic debut you have released here I just couldn’t put it down once I started to read, you should be extremely proud of yourself. This book keeps you on tender hooks through out with you always waiting and anticipating what’s coming next. There are some very strong characters within this book starting with Sophie who is left to look after her younger sister Melanie after the death of their parents. Chief as we know him is a man who Sophie trusts and goes to for help, he sends her to Chicago to lay low and start a new life. So after a few years of doing her best looking after Melanie and keeping her safe and indulging in Chicago’s Rope scene something had to go wrong.
After getting messages and ignoring them Sophie finds out too late that Melanie decides to help her sister out by getting a job but it all goes horribly wrong and Melanie is assaulted. Now Sophie’s Out for REVENGE.
Excellent book I can’t wait to read the next instalment and see where it follows on.
After getting messages and ignoring them Sophie finds out too late that Melanie decides to help her sister out by getting a job but it all goes horribly wrong and Melanie is assaulted. Now Sophie’s Out for REVENGE.
Excellent book I can’t wait to read the next instalment and see where it follows on.
September 8, 2021
After losing her parents, Sophie takes Responsibility for her younger sister, Melanie. After someone brutally hurts Melanie, Sophie sets out on an mission to get revenge. But is she ready for what she finds along the way?
This is one heck of a story. It is dark and full of mystery, suspense, intrigue, twists and turns. It is definitely a page turner. The characters are incredible and very well developed. I really love Sophie! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one!
This is one heck of a story. It is dark and full of mystery, suspense, intrigue, twists and turns. It is definitely a page turner. The characters are incredible and very well developed. I really love Sophie! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one!
August 31, 2021
I never thought I would find a rope bunny working in an exclusive tea house and avenging her sister's assault to be so relatable, but here we are. The emotions of this story are so raw and the characters feel so real, Sophie especially. I enjoyed the writing style and that ending! I thought we were headed for an HEA but how could I be so naive? I certainly have an appetite for more and will be sure to grab book two ASAP
April 21, 2024
this was a freebie from the 2023 stuff your kindle day! Had me drawn in with the story lines and names and kept me entertained throughout. Would classify this as a dark romance!
December 24, 2020
This book grabbed me and didn’t let me go.
When I finished it, I wanted more to read. I cared deeply about what happened to Sophie, to Melanie, and to their friend Hana. I’m looking forward to more about this ensemble.
Sophie has been on her own, taking care of her little sister for seven years. She’s used to doing things on her own and depending on nobody else. Her main concern is making a home for her teenage sister. When that sister is held captive and abused, she turns vigilante, infiltrating the late-night tea house, Lavender. But mysteries abound. Who runs this place? What kind of activities happen here? Who wanted her to try to take Lavender down, and why? The story links to her childhood, her enjoyment of kinky pain, and to a new set of characters who could, if she only will let them, become her tribe.
There are villains in the story, too, very satisfying villains, wrapped in mystery. I wonder what made them how they are? Maybe future volumes will tell.
Sophie is a reluctant heroine, with many flaws. She has strengths, too. Her personal preference and experience with kinky pain has shaped a strong sense of self and other, and perfect clarity about what is consensual and what is abusive. There are strong scenes in this book, and it carries a disclaimer. The strength of the characters, particularly Sophie, and the clarity of her values, even in extreme circumstances, made this book unputdownable for me, though it was a new genre for me.
I received an advance copy of this book to review.
When I finished it, I wanted more to read. I cared deeply about what happened to Sophie, to Melanie, and to their friend Hana. I’m looking forward to more about this ensemble.
Sophie has been on her own, taking care of her little sister for seven years. She’s used to doing things on her own and depending on nobody else. Her main concern is making a home for her teenage sister. When that sister is held captive and abused, she turns vigilante, infiltrating the late-night tea house, Lavender. But mysteries abound. Who runs this place? What kind of activities happen here? Who wanted her to try to take Lavender down, and why? The story links to her childhood, her enjoyment of kinky pain, and to a new set of characters who could, if she only will let them, become her tribe.
There are villains in the story, too, very satisfying villains, wrapped in mystery. I wonder what made them how they are? Maybe future volumes will tell.
Sophie is a reluctant heroine, with many flaws. She has strengths, too. Her personal preference and experience with kinky pain has shaped a strong sense of self and other, and perfect clarity about what is consensual and what is abusive. There are strong scenes in this book, and it carries a disclaimer. The strength of the characters, particularly Sophie, and the clarity of her values, even in extreme circumstances, made this book unputdownable for me, though it was a new genre for me.
I received an advance copy of this book to review.
December 29, 2020
Thrilling and fast-paced, but definitely not for the faint-hearted! The action and the plot line or gripping and will completely lure you in, if you can handle it. There are very graphic scenes in this book, which I found to be gripping, but it can can be upsetting for some people. The characters are believable, the story is sensational, and the whole thing is well-written. Enthralling and sexy. I have signed up to follow this writer because I am desperate for the sequel
August 13, 2021
This is a great debut! It definitely has a lot of darkness so if that’s not something you are into avoid. I enjoyed the character development and perseverance through less than ideal circumstances. A little suspense, a little kink, good quick read.
February 22, 2021
I was delighted to read an advanced copy of this book, supplied by Delaroque.
For a self published debut, this is a really strong book.
It explores some very heavy themes with a nuanced competence, and is definitively different in its focus and the way the story unfolds.
We follow Sophie, whose penchant for kink and love of tea is perversely inverted in Club Lavender, which she suddenly finds herself investigating at the behest of an anonymous patron wanting to utilise the thievery skills she left behind after the death of her parents seven years earlier. Her motivation is more personal, though; her younger sister was lured into the club, and only narrowly escaped serious assault. As Sophie becomes drawn further into the club, she discovers more of its secrets, but also puts herself more and more in the path of direct harm.
The story is an interesting one, and while Sophie as a character makes errors, she's an interesting character whose motivations and traumas are well considered. I honestly wasn't sure how the plot was going to unfold, which meant that it was interesting to follow along her journey, and the richness of Delaroque's imagination in crafting and describing the physical environment is frequently demonstrated. At times however, I felt the pacing of the book dragged a little, and I found myself ready for a development to come along.
I felt the titular Lavender Phantom as a character and presence in the book wasn't as fully developed as it could have been; there are a few chapters from his perspective, but I don't know that they added anything I didn't already know, and they actually broke the flow for me. Perhaps there could have been more such chapters in order to flesh out the importance of his own character and perspective.
Similarly, I really don't like instalove tropes, and while some work was done to establish the tenor of the dynamic between Sophie and Damien, I felt the immediacy with which the two of them were willing to trust one another and share very intimate moments and information with each other stretched the limits of credibility - especially given what they've both been through.
My favourite thing about the book was the discussions around consent (it's worth noting that the book does have quite a few sexually explicit scenes, as you would expect from a book like this). I really enjoyed the nuanced exploration of consent and the really considered depiction of the difference between BDSM/kink and non-consensual sexual interactions. It's a thread that we could discuss more as a society and Delaroque does this really well.
At the book's conclusion, I felt a few questions could have been cleared up more explicitly (for instance, how does Club Lavender become what it is). While I know this is the first in a series, I would have appreciated an inference of an answer, as it felt a bit as though it had been left out of the plot by accident.
In all, this is a really great debut from a promising writer. I'm interested to see what Delaroque will do next.
For a self published debut, this is a really strong book.
It explores some very heavy themes with a nuanced competence, and is definitively different in its focus and the way the story unfolds.
We follow Sophie, whose penchant for kink and love of tea is perversely inverted in Club Lavender, which she suddenly finds herself investigating at the behest of an anonymous patron wanting to utilise the thievery skills she left behind after the death of her parents seven years earlier. Her motivation is more personal, though; her younger sister was lured into the club, and only narrowly escaped serious assault. As Sophie becomes drawn further into the club, she discovers more of its secrets, but also puts herself more and more in the path of direct harm.
The story is an interesting one, and while Sophie as a character makes errors, she's an interesting character whose motivations and traumas are well considered. I honestly wasn't sure how the plot was going to unfold, which meant that it was interesting to follow along her journey, and the richness of Delaroque's imagination in crafting and describing the physical environment is frequently demonstrated. At times however, I felt the pacing of the book dragged a little, and I found myself ready for a development to come along.
I felt the titular Lavender Phantom as a character and presence in the book wasn't as fully developed as it could have been; there are a few chapters from his perspective, but I don't know that they added anything I didn't already know, and they actually broke the flow for me. Perhaps there could have been more such chapters in order to flesh out the importance of his own character and perspective.
Similarly, I really don't like instalove tropes, and while some work was done to establish the tenor of the dynamic between Sophie and Damien, I felt the immediacy with which the two of them were willing to trust one another and share very intimate moments and information with each other stretched the limits of credibility - especially given what they've both been through.
My favourite thing about the book was the discussions around consent (it's worth noting that the book does have quite a few sexually explicit scenes, as you would expect from a book like this). I really enjoyed the nuanced exploration of consent and the really considered depiction of the difference between BDSM/kink and non-consensual sexual interactions. It's a thread that we could discuss more as a society and Delaroque does this really well.
At the book's conclusion, I felt a few questions could have been cleared up more explicitly (for instance, how does Club Lavender become what it is). While I know this is the first in a series, I would have appreciated an inference of an answer, as it felt a bit as though it had been left out of the plot by accident.
In all, this is a really great debut from a promising writer. I'm interested to see what Delaroque will do next.
February 10, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Sophie Taylor is just trying to live her life without having to worry one hundred times a day. Being an independent woman who works in a fast food place has its drawbacks and her fears for her younger sister have grown worse. She just wants to be able to provide for her family while keeping herself out of trouble. But, of course, that is impossible when a mysterious employer offers her a job carrying out a task that she did in a life she is trying to forget. I totally loved Sophie, she was so cool.
I was completely enamored by the book and it was so so so good!!!
The world building was great and the sense of mystery during the first half definitely kept me hooked. That is definitely my favourite aspect of this book and I loved reading it, especially as you delve into the club itself and you have so many questions in your mind.
This book was beautifully written and was so gripping, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it!!!
However, this book is quite dark so read at your own discretion. I am extremely excited to read the next book!!!
Sophie Taylor is just trying to live her life without having to worry one hundred times a day. Being an independent woman who works in a fast food place has its drawbacks and her fears for her younger sister have grown worse. She just wants to be able to provide for her family while keeping herself out of trouble. But, of course, that is impossible when a mysterious employer offers her a job carrying out a task that she did in a life she is trying to forget. I totally loved Sophie, she was so cool.
I was completely enamored by the book and it was so so so good!!!
The world building was great and the sense of mystery during the first half definitely kept me hooked. That is definitely my favourite aspect of this book and I loved reading it, especially as you delve into the club itself and you have so many questions in your mind.
This book was beautifully written and was so gripping, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it!!!
However, this book is quite dark so read at your own discretion. I am extremely excited to read the next book!!!
February 9, 2021
This is a dark story with shadows and villains and good guys whose halo's are tarnished. The only true innocents are the children - Melanie who is tricked and abused so that her sister will feel a need to answer the call to use her special skills to help the Phantom and Damien son Thomas who is being used as a pawn to control his dad, who is being held hostage in a club he created as a refuge and a sanctuary which the evil Valarie and her henchmen are using for nefarious purposes. The story is told through the eyes of the lead characters, so what they see or think is your only view to what is happening to them or around them. There are trigger warnings for this story, dark subject matters of drugging's, rape, abuse, beatings. Some of the things that happen are vague, left to your interpretation and other things that happen are describe. This just the beginning story. I'm looking forward to the next book of the Phantom and the Wraith.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It was intense and fast paced but really well written. Some of the scenes are graphic (read the trigger warnings!) but I felt they really made the book. The characters were well written and believable and this book had it all, from emotional development to an intriguing plot. Well done Lainey on your debut novel!!
February 16, 2021
I Loved this Book and did not know if I would like it but I read it from beginning to the end. The story line was so good it kept me reading it until the end. The characters were so instrumental to the story and I would read more from this author.
September 10, 2021
A new author and new series yet I was surprised in a great way, her debut novel knocked it out of the park. It was very well written, great paced that hooks you up from the start and keeps you on edge. I loved the characters, the emotional turmoil is amazing, I really liked this rollercoaster ride and I can't wait to read the next one.
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September 5, 2021
This book surprised me.... in a great way!!!! Sophie is strong, protective of her sister, has a bit of baggage from her past, and is totally comfortable with what she wants and what she needs. After her parents pass away, it leave her and her sister Melanie young and alone but, Sophie manages to make a quiet life for herself and Melanie. She has a complicated past as a thief of sorts, and a good one, that I'm interested to see if that comes back around to her current life in a larger way than it was in this book. Damien, the Lavender Phantom, is dark and mysterious. While being held captive in a world of his own making that has been changed, all he wants is those closest to him to be safe and to be able to live freely. I loved his flirty/naughty behavior, even when he was in pain. I also love him and Sophie together! They seem to fit so well together that its hard to NOT see them together.
A little bit of a slow-burn, though there is definitely some *tension* between Damien & Sophie.
~There is a bit of a trigger warning for this, which I would advise reading.
I received this in exchange for an honest review.
A little bit of a slow-burn, though there is definitely some *tension* between Damien & Sophie.
~There is a bit of a trigger warning for this, which I would advise reading.
I received this in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2021
Besties I finished this book
The Lavender Phantom by @authorlaineydelaroque
Sophie works a 9 to 5 job so she can take care of her 14 year old sister Melanie. Life is just going smooth until Melanie wants to help her sister out she decides to pay a visit to The Lavender Club to get a job. While trying to get a job she barely escapes with her life.
Sophie will do anything to get revenge for what happened to her sister. She decides her plan is going to be get a job working at the club.
While working there Sophie realizes that there is alot more going on than just what happened to her sister. She discovers drugs, money and even abuse.
Sophie wants to shut the club down but what happens when she discovers there is more going on the inside!?
#bookreview #bookreviews #bookshelf #bookrecommendations #books #bookstagrammer #bookstagram
The Lavender Phantom by @authorlaineydelaroque
Sophie works a 9 to 5 job so she can take care of her 14 year old sister Melanie. Life is just going smooth until Melanie wants to help her sister out she decides to pay a visit to The Lavender Club to get a job. While trying to get a job she barely escapes with her life.
Sophie will do anything to get revenge for what happened to her sister. She decides her plan is going to be get a job working at the club.
While working there Sophie realizes that there is alot more going on than just what happened to her sister. She discovers drugs, money and even abuse.
Sophie wants to shut the club down but what happens when she discovers there is more going on the inside!?
#bookreview #bookreviews #bookshelf #bookrecommendations #books #bookstagrammer #bookstagram
March 4, 2022
This is the first book Iv read from Lainey, I really enjoyed her debut book and look forward to reading more of her books. Once I started reading I didn’t want to put the book down because I was hooked and wanted to know what happened next.
Sophie and her sister don’t have the best start in life, and get shipped away on their own to start a new and better life. Unfortunately Sophie can’t seem to get away from her past when she receives messages to do a job for great money, what she didn’t except it for her baby sister to get dragged into it and get assaulted. Sophie then decides to do the job and to get vengeance for her sister. There is loads of twists and turns within the story that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
I can’t wait to read the next book to answer a lot of unanswered questions within book one.
Sophie and her sister don’t have the best start in life, and get shipped away on their own to start a new and better life. Unfortunately Sophie can’t seem to get away from her past when she receives messages to do a job for great money, what she didn’t except it for her baby sister to get dragged into it and get assaulted. Sophie then decides to do the job and to get vengeance for her sister. There is loads of twists and turns within the story that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
I can’t wait to read the next book to answer a lot of unanswered questions within book one.
September 7, 2021
Lainey is a new to me author, I absolutely enjoyed this book and it was not what I was expecting at all!!
Sophie is our FMC and she works so hard to take care of herself and her sister Melanie. One day, she gets offered a job that's doing a task like she did in the past that she is trying to put behind her. From there on, things get pretty dang interesting.
I really liked reading this book. There is mystery, tension/suspense, and things to keep you interested! I cant wait for the next book!
Sophie is our FMC and she works so hard to take care of herself and her sister Melanie. One day, she gets offered a job that's doing a task like she did in the past that she is trying to put behind her. From there on, things get pretty dang interesting.
I really liked reading this book. There is mystery, tension/suspense, and things to keep you interested! I cant wait for the next book!
September 14, 2021
Debut book definitely kept my interest.
You take a strong, female character like Sophie put her with some guy named Damien and you have yourself a good story that contains mystery, suspense, and very steamy scenes.
The whole vigilante vibe with the FMC is what I liked about the hook. I can understand her need for revenge when family is involved. Damien is a hard nut to crack but I was still enamored with his character. And that ending defiant will have coming back for more with the next one.
* I was asked to read this book and give an honest review.
You take a strong, female character like Sophie put her with some guy named Damien and you have yourself a good story that contains mystery, suspense, and very steamy scenes.
The whole vigilante vibe with the FMC is what I liked about the hook. I can understand her need for revenge when family is involved. Damien is a hard nut to crack but I was still enamored with his character. And that ending defiant will have coming back for more with the next one.
* I was asked to read this book and give an honest review.
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