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This Dark Paradise
In this YA fantasy debut perfect for fans of Hotel Magnifique and These Violent Delights, a girl visits the enchanted island of her dreams only to discover that its magic is horribly cursed.
An enchanted island. A dangerous heist. A deadly secret.
In the tenements where Lucia lives, everyone dreams of making it to the enchanted island of Estaralla, where mystical fountains reveal your deepest desires, fantastical feasts appear from nowhere, and dark caverns allow you to whisper with the dead. But Lucia Arduini isn't there to experience miracles. She's there to steal the most valuable object in the world: the source of the island's magic.
Posing as a magical tour guide for wealthy tourists visiting the island, Lucia has five days to steal the source or a dangerous gang will go after her brother. But Estaralla is not what it seems. Torn between a boy who once broke her heart and a girl with a dark secret, Lucia soon discovers that something sinister is happening behind the enchantments…and she might not survive the island's magic long enough to steal it.
This dark YA fantasy with a bisexual love triangle is perfect for fans of Caraval and Belladonna.
An enchanted island. A dangerous heist. A deadly secret.
In the tenements where Lucia lives, everyone dreams of making it to the enchanted island of Estaralla, where mystical fountains reveal your deepest desires, fantastical feasts appear from nowhere, and dark caverns allow you to whisper with the dead. But Lucia Arduini isn't there to experience miracles. She's there to steal the most valuable object in the world: the source of the island's magic.
Posing as a magical tour guide for wealthy tourists visiting the island, Lucia has five days to steal the source or a dangerous gang will go after her brother. But Estaralla is not what it seems. Torn between a boy who once broke her heart and a girl with a dark secret, Lucia soon discovers that something sinister is happening behind the enchantments…and she might not survive the island's magic long enough to steal it.
This dark YA fantasy with a bisexual love triangle is perfect for fans of Caraval and Belladonna.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2024
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October 1, 2024This dark YA fantasy with a bisexual love triangle is perfect for fans of Caraval and Belladonna.
Did the author write it... for me? As a treat?
Did the author write it... for me? As a treat?
October 23, 2025
Title: This Dark Paradise
Author: Erin Luken
⭐️⭐️
This is a YA fantasy book.
Lucia lives in a world of poverty. The only way to get her and her family out of it is to make a deal to steal the magical source from the island everyone dreams of visiting. However when she gets there nothing is as she thought it would be. So now she’s battling for the life of the people she’s with and her own life.
This book was not for me. It just wasn’t for me. I didn’t even care enough to find a quote from the story. It was a slog to get through. The characters were fine, the story and plot was fine I just wasn’t into it.
Author: Erin Luken
⭐️⭐️
This is a YA fantasy book.
Lucia lives in a world of poverty. The only way to get her and her family out of it is to make a deal to steal the magical source from the island everyone dreams of visiting. However when she gets there nothing is as she thought it would be. So now she’s battling for the life of the people she’s with and her own life.
This book was not for me. It just wasn’t for me. I didn’t even care enough to find a quote from the story. It was a slog to get through. The characters were fine, the story and plot was fine I just wasn’t into it.
September 30, 2024
I loved the pace of the story, I was invested in wanting to know what was going to happen next! I wasn't too thrilled one of my obvious predictions was correct, and I didn't feel a strong emotional connection between majority of the characters. At times I didn't understand the motivation towards certain decisions.
This book is wrapped up in magic and mystery, along with an unexpected romantic interest. I can see myself picking up the sequel in the future!
This book is wrapped up in magic and mystery, along with an unexpected romantic interest. I can see myself picking up the sequel in the future!
Did Not Finish
August 24, 2024DNF. I just can’t get into this one.
March 14, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Read
June 6, 2024DNF. The overall tone I'm getting is just morose and it's dragging me down. I'm also kinda bored. Oh, and this cover is hideous. So I'm out.
July 30, 2024
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
July 25, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Bloomsbury YA for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“This Dark Paradise: by Erin Luken is a captivating YA fantasy debut that invites readers into the enchanted yet perilous world of Estaralla. Lucia Arduini, living in the bleak tenements, dreams of the mystical island where fountains reveal deepest desires, feasts appear magically, and caverns allow whispers with the dead. But Lucia's journey to Estaralla is driven by desperation, not wonder. She must steal the source of the island's magic within five days to save her brother from a dangerous gang. As she navigates the island, Lucia finds herself caught between a boy who once broke her heart and a girl harboring a dark secret, discovering that Estaralla's enchantments hide deadly truths.
The story is set in an alternate fantasy world that feels distinctly inspired by Italy, lending it a rich cultural texture that enhances the story. The world-building is both simple and well-developed, particularly in its depiction of the illusionists and their unique magic system, although the complexity of the magic can be somewhat confusing once the story moves to the island. I just couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to trust the Vessels once they were described, though the imagery was well-done and vivid. I liked the give-and-take aspect of the magic as the consequences showed the true flaws of the magic system in the book.
Lucia Arduini is a compelling protagonist, driven by a sense of urgency and familial loyalty that makes her relatable and sympathetic. She never loses sight of her goal in saving her brother throughout the entire book. Her mission to steal the source of Estaralla’s magic keeps you engaged as Lucia navigates the island's many dangers. The plot itself is well-conceived, though some aspects, like getting on the boat, seem a bit too easy, contributing to the fast-paced nature of the plot. The description of the book made me think this would be more of a heist centered story, but the main focus is on uncovering the secrets of the island.
The book features a bisexual love triangle involving Lucia, a boy who once broke her heart, and a girl with a dark secret. There is an element of insta-love with Calista, which I did not really enjoy, especially since Lucia only got to become closer to Calista in just a few days and Calista was keeping secrets basically the entire time they knew each other. The resolution of the love triangle is clear and decisive, and it was made obvious who the victor would be in the love triangle.
Representation in “This Dark Paradise” is commendable, with bisexual and aromantic characters included. While the aromantic representation is implied rather than explicitly stated, it adds a layer of diversity to the cast. The book’s exploration of these identities is integrated naturally into the story, though I wanted more focus on the mystery rather than the romance in regards to the plot. The romantic pieces slowed down the pace a bit, and I just wasn’t as invested in those elements as I was in the mysteries of the island. The plot is filled with unexpected twists, particularly towards the end, and I enjoyed learning more about the island and the magic system. The fast pace of the story ensures that there is never a dull moment, though some problems faced by the characters could have been resolved more easily with better communication. Despite this, the ending wraps up the story nicely, providing a satisfying conclusion to Lucia’s journey.
Overall, “This Dark Paradise” by Erin Luken is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy. Its unique blend of magic, heist, and romance, set against the backdrop of an enchanting yet dangerous island, makes for a thrilling and immersive read. The well-developed world, compelling characters, and representation of diverse identities add depth to the story, making it a standout debut. I definitely can’t wait to read more from Luken.
“This Dark Paradise: by Erin Luken is a captivating YA fantasy debut that invites readers into the enchanted yet perilous world of Estaralla. Lucia Arduini, living in the bleak tenements, dreams of the mystical island where fountains reveal deepest desires, feasts appear magically, and caverns allow whispers with the dead. But Lucia's journey to Estaralla is driven by desperation, not wonder. She must steal the source of the island's magic within five days to save her brother from a dangerous gang. As she navigates the island, Lucia finds herself caught between a boy who once broke her heart and a girl harboring a dark secret, discovering that Estaralla's enchantments hide deadly truths.
The story is set in an alternate fantasy world that feels distinctly inspired by Italy, lending it a rich cultural texture that enhances the story. The world-building is both simple and well-developed, particularly in its depiction of the illusionists and their unique magic system, although the complexity of the magic can be somewhat confusing once the story moves to the island. I just couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to trust the Vessels once they were described, though the imagery was well-done and vivid. I liked the give-and-take aspect of the magic as the consequences showed the true flaws of the magic system in the book.
Lucia Arduini is a compelling protagonist, driven by a sense of urgency and familial loyalty that makes her relatable and sympathetic. She never loses sight of her goal in saving her brother throughout the entire book. Her mission to steal the source of Estaralla’s magic keeps you engaged as Lucia navigates the island's many dangers. The plot itself is well-conceived, though some aspects, like getting on the boat, seem a bit too easy, contributing to the fast-paced nature of the plot. The description of the book made me think this would be more of a heist centered story, but the main focus is on uncovering the secrets of the island.
The book features a bisexual love triangle involving Lucia, a boy who once broke her heart, and a girl with a dark secret. There is an element of insta-love with Calista, which I did not really enjoy, especially since Lucia only got to become closer to Calista in just a few days and Calista was keeping secrets basically the entire time they knew each other. The resolution of the love triangle is clear and decisive, and it was made obvious who the victor would be in the love triangle.
Representation in “This Dark Paradise” is commendable, with bisexual and aromantic characters included. While the aromantic representation is implied rather than explicitly stated, it adds a layer of diversity to the cast. The book’s exploration of these identities is integrated naturally into the story, though I wanted more focus on the mystery rather than the romance in regards to the plot. The romantic pieces slowed down the pace a bit, and I just wasn’t as invested in those elements as I was in the mysteries of the island. The plot is filled with unexpected twists, particularly towards the end, and I enjoyed learning more about the island and the magic system. The fast pace of the story ensures that there is never a dull moment, though some problems faced by the characters could have been resolved more easily with better communication. Despite this, the ending wraps up the story nicely, providing a satisfying conclusion to Lucia’s journey.
Overall, “This Dark Paradise” by Erin Luken is a must-read for fans of YA fantasy. Its unique blend of magic, heist, and romance, set against the backdrop of an enchanting yet dangerous island, makes for a thrilling and immersive read. The well-developed world, compelling characters, and representation of diverse identities add depth to the story, making it a standout debut. I definitely can’t wait to read more from Luken.
April 24, 2025
Im giving this 2.5 stars.
I disliked how everything was thrown out the ocean and the author simply switched everything up last minute because in the beginning of the story, Lucia liked Antony and was torn with her own feelings towards him due to his betrayal.
When Lucia met Calista, she grew fond of her but before I knew she must be bi, I had the assumption that Antony was her love interest due to Lucia still having feelings for him that grew shallower and then to nothing throughout her stay at the island. Which is why I thought it was odd how Lucia thought about her interactions with Calista until I made the realization when Lucia finally said she was romantically interested in her.
The island had different touristic magical hotspots such as the dream lagoon and cave and others and I wanted to dwell in them more and have Lucia try them out but sadly, that did not happen. You know what else did not happen? HER FATHER’S BACKSTORY OR ANY SORT OF REVEAL ABOUT HIM. Throughout the WHOLE novel, Lucia kept mentioning her father and stated how her father left her family abruptly once he started tonos money to the Silverhands gang but also how he believed in the island of Estaralla to have a treasure. From all this and the whole plot of the story being that Lucia went to the island in order to find this so called treasure, I really expected the plot twist of her father being somehow involved with the island or a revelation of him at least but nope. Nothing. So when the book was nearing to its end, I also assumed that there must be a sequel due ti still feeling empty handed but nope. The story pretty much ended with an indirect potential future about Lucia’s potential ending.
I’m annoyed from this novel and feel that from all that was created into this universe, that we simply did not get to mingle at all with its creation due to Lucia’s emphasis on staying close to her host group and only thinking about Calista.
I disliked how everything was thrown out the ocean and the author simply switched everything up last minute because in the beginning of the story, Lucia liked Antony and was torn with her own feelings towards him due to his betrayal.
When Lucia met Calista, she grew fond of her but before I knew she must be bi, I had the assumption that Antony was her love interest due to Lucia still having feelings for him that grew shallower and then to nothing throughout her stay at the island. Which is why I thought it was odd how Lucia thought about her interactions with Calista until I made the realization when Lucia finally said she was romantically interested in her.
The island had different touristic magical hotspots such as the dream lagoon and cave and others and I wanted to dwell in them more and have Lucia try them out but sadly, that did not happen. You know what else did not happen? HER FATHER’S BACKSTORY OR ANY SORT OF REVEAL ABOUT HIM. Throughout the WHOLE novel, Lucia kept mentioning her father and stated how her father left her family abruptly once he started tonos money to the Silverhands gang but also how he believed in the island of Estaralla to have a treasure. From all this and the whole plot of the story being that Lucia went to the island in order to find this so called treasure, I really expected the plot twist of her father being somehow involved with the island or a revelation of him at least but nope. Nothing. So when the book was nearing to its end, I also assumed that there must be a sequel due ti still feeling empty handed but nope. The story pretty much ended with an indirect potential future about Lucia’s potential ending.
I’m annoyed from this novel and feel that from all that was created into this universe, that we simply did not get to mingle at all with its creation due to Lucia’s emphasis on staying close to her host group and only thinking about Calista.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2025
This story follows a girl who visits the enchanted island of her dreams to discover that its magic is cursed. This book is debuting for fans of Hotel Magnifique, These Violent Delights, Caravel, and Belladonna. This fantasy book was not one that I enjoyed a lot. The author did a great job building the world, but I would say that the world built could have had more to be expanded on. I loved how detailed the world was, which allowed me to keep on going. The storyline was similar to others I have read which I don’t mind but it was also very predictable which made it a tad boring. The pacing is fast which helped with the story.
Lucia is the FMC and for some reason I just couldn’t connect with her. If I can’t connect with the MCs then it’s just hard to even get into the story and also the romance part of the book. She’s strong but she was just like other characters I have read. Then we have our main side characters Calista and Antony, who were great, and I loved their involvement in the story. There are many other side characters in this book to keep it going. Their is bisexual rep and there is a love triangle in the book. The romance was okay in my opinion.
The ending was good but I didn’t feel satisfied with the book like I wish I did. The story just didn’t work out to me like I hoped but the entire plot was amazing. I think if the story expanded or was longer so I could say connected with the FMC could have helped.
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
Lucia is the FMC and for some reason I just couldn’t connect with her. If I can’t connect with the MCs then it’s just hard to even get into the story and also the romance part of the book. She’s strong but she was just like other characters I have read. Then we have our main side characters Calista and Antony, who were great, and I loved their involvement in the story. There are many other side characters in this book to keep it going. Their is bisexual rep and there is a love triangle in the book. The romance was okay in my opinion.
The ending was good but I didn’t feel satisfied with the book like I wish I did. The story just didn’t work out to me like I hoped but the entire plot was amazing. I think if the story expanded or was longer so I could say connected with the FMC could have helped.
*this arc was sent to me by the publisher to give an honest review in return*
September 30, 2024
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for review.
All too pretty, creepy horror island is such an excellent setting and Luken utilized this so well. I loved how the magic system of the island shaped the islands culture and also the culture of the surrounding lands who can only glimpse the magic through a single port or the fabulous vacations taken by the most powerful and wealthy patrons. This culture sets up the mystery and glamour as well as leaving space for the dark underbelly of such a world. This world in turn sets up the impossible heist our heroine must now pull off as well as throw so many complications her way. Lucia is wonderfully written and I enjoyed seeing how she navigates the obstacles of both the island and the other characters. I thought the romance was cute and it added some lighter moments to the high stakes at hand while also adding intrigue. Overall this story really drew me in and was a great read!
All too pretty, creepy horror island is such an excellent setting and Luken utilized this so well. I loved how the magic system of the island shaped the islands culture and also the culture of the surrounding lands who can only glimpse the magic through a single port or the fabulous vacations taken by the most powerful and wealthy patrons. This culture sets up the mystery and glamour as well as leaving space for the dark underbelly of such a world. This world in turn sets up the impossible heist our heroine must now pull off as well as throw so many complications her way. Lucia is wonderfully written and I enjoyed seeing how she navigates the obstacles of both the island and the other characters. I thought the romance was cute and it added some lighter moments to the high stakes at hand while also adding intrigue. Overall this story really drew me in and was a great read!
December 30, 2025
This Dark Paradise is a solid, entertaining entry into the dark YA fantasy romance space. It distinguishes itself with a genuinely creepy magical premise and a central queer romance that feels integral, not ancillary. Readers seeking a fast-paced, atmospheric fantasy with a bisexual love triangle at its core will find much to enjoy here. While it leaves room for deeper development in future works, Erin Luken demonstrates a clear talent for concept and atmosphere, marking her as a debut author to watch. Recommended for fans of Adrienne Young, Lyra Selene, and anyone who loves a beautiful setting with a rotten core.
April 21, 2025
This Dark Paradise had an intriguing premise and solid atmosphere, with moments of tension and mystery that kept me curious. While it had its strengths, it didn’t quite stand out in the end. A decent read for fans of moody, slow-burn thrillers.
June 4, 2025
predictable plot twists and a little frustrating that the main character didn't catch some obvious dangers but overall a quick, easy, gripping read with an interesting and different type of magic/setting
January 17, 2026
My only complaint with this book was how rushed the ending felt. Not enough time for information to sit and process. Otherwise, the world, magic system, and characters had me eager for the next page.
September 8, 2024
Was really hard to get through. Inconsistent magic system. MC changed her entire mission at the drop of a hat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2024
3.5 stars. The mysterious island atmosphere was cool. The characters and story were semi-interesting.
February 21, 2025
It was a little bit too grotesque for me because I'm not really used to reading horror,but the book has a very interesting story, definitely recommend.
August 8, 2025
I was excited for a horror-fantasy heist book but instead I got a "Tourism of Fantasy Italy" book. The horror elements were cool but not enough for how bored I was.
3 Stars
3 Stars
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