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The Sanctum Syndicate #4

Carved Obsession

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For what I witnessed, he wants me dead.
But I’m no prey, and I’ll make him admit he just wants me.
With a wicked grin, I watched him kill a man, silently urging him on. Then I ran, adrenaline surging, hoping the sinfully handsome stranger wouldn’t catch me. Yet, for months, I dreamed he would.
Until the day our paths crossed again and his cold, soulless gaze reignited the desire that had haunted me. Carter Pierce—one of the bloody kings of the underworld he and his soul brothers rule. The very people my family warned me against.
But when the despicable man refusing to grant me a divorce moves against me, it’s Carter who stands by my side. And when his enemy strikes, I risk too much to stand by his.
What future can I possibly have with a man missing a heart? And will he even want me once he truly knows me?

Catch up on the series
#1 Dangerous Strokes, a Dark Mafia Romance
#2 Reckless Covenant, a Second Chance Mafia Romance
#3 Manacled Hearts, an Age Gap Mafia Romance

___________
Author’s Note: Carved Obsession is a mafia romance with dark themes and sensitive content. Please go to the author’s website for the full list of triggers.

412 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 28, 2025

23 people are currently reading
307 people want to read

About the author

Lilith Roman

9 books401 followers
Lilith Roman is a romance author who writes character-driven, plot-rich stories featuring addictive antiheroes and morally gray heroines. Her novels blend suspense with dark themes and obsessive men who worship their women.

She’s an introvert living on the coast of Northern Ireland, where she feeds an addiction to pretty hardbacks, supernatural villains, and the kind of horror movies that convinced her that even the monster under the bed needs a love story.
_________________________
Connect with me:
Newsletter ⇢ lilithromanauthor.com/newsletter/
Reader Group ⇢ cutt.ly/FB-Group-LCS
Website ⇢ https://lilithromanauthor.com/
Instagram ⇢ instagram.com/lilithromanauthor
Facebook ⇢ facebook.com/lilithromanauthor

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5 stars
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42 (36%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Chiara^•^.
442 reviews128 followers
February 26, 2025
Carved Obsession by Lilith Roman
4/5⭐
3/5🌶️

"I may not know what love is, but it better not be less than this, because you deserve so much more. I call you 'mine', but all I've done so far is prove that I am yours."

My first book by this author, and wow, what a fun ride it was! The main characters are fantastic, and I adored the FMC. She’s so unique and refreshing! The chemistry between her and Carter is electric, and the tension is off the charts. The plot is engaging, with plenty of action to keep things exciting. Carter and Scarlet’s dynamic is intense, hot, and crazy, but in the best way possible. I enjoyed every moment!

After discovering that her husband is cheating on her with her best friend in their own home, Scarlet decides to leave and clear her mind. While in a dark alley, she witnesses a man torturing someone. Instead of being scared, she’s oddly captivated by him. That man turns out to be Carter, one of the leaders of the Sanctum Syndicate. He should have eliminated her since she could threaten his organization, but he finds himself intrigued instead. Scarlet is nothing like the other women he’s met, and he can’t help but be drawn to her.

I had such a blast watching Carter getting all worked up with the games Scarlet played with him! It was so entertaining to see how she outsmarted him repeatedly. Even though he can't feel emotions, Carter's heart slowly starts to open up to Scarlet, which is sweet. I loved the moment when they both began to share their stories and be vulnerable with each other. They each have their own tough pasts, and my heart went out to them!

Carter is a bit of a recluse who can't feel emotions, while Scarlet, who can’t feel physical pain, has a bright and sunny personality. Their differences make them perfect for each other, and I loved seeing how they balance one another out. This was such an enjoyable read! If you’re into dark mafia romances with unique characters and plenty of action, then you’ll love this one.

"I thought my darkness was too devoid of stars for you when, infact, it was just waiting for the brightest of them all to come along and claim the throne. My scarlet queen."
Profile Image for Lunawolfwy.
224 reviews20 followers
March 16, 2025
First read by Lilith Roman and won't be my last that's for sure! This story was amazing! Excellent plot and paced consistently from start to finish.

Both Scarlet (FMC) & Carter (MMC) are a powerhouse together! Their relationship is a love/hate in the beginning but also filled with a steamy lust between them.

Lilith Roman is not afraid to bring the spice and I'm here for it and ready for more!!
Profile Image for Sam.
491 reviews70 followers
February 27, 2025
4⭐️/2🌶️

This was my first book by Lilith, and let’s just say… it won’t be my last! Carter and Scarlet were both a little unhinged (which I loved) and absolutely bada$$. Their dynamic kept me hooked from the start—silly banter, nonstop action, steamy romance, and plenty of spice? Yes, please!

The plot had the perfect mix of chaos and chemistry, making it such a fun read. If the rest of Lilith’s books are anything like this, I’m definitely going through her backlist next! 🔥💥

Tropes:
Mafia
Strong FMC
J/P
Profile Image for ♥ WishfulMiss ♥ .
1,473 reviews115 followers
March 3, 2025
This book left me speechless! It was tantalizingly twisted, OTT and unhinged but with a cast of characters that instantly piqued my interest. I wasn't prepared for the wild ride that is Carved Obsession but I'm so glad I got the chance to read this story because it will be living rent free in my mind now.

Scarlet and Carter’s story is unhinged but in the best way possible. When I say these two get each other I really mean that they understand each other on a deeper level and it made their love story all the more unique and memorable for it. They both have a great support system and they are content with their lot in life because they don't see themselves being completely whole enough to have a normal life or even experience romantic love. Then they literally stumble upon each other and their whole perceptive on life changes.

I loved that Scarlet was a romantic. In her heart of hearts, she wanted to be loved and accepted, just as she was and when she gets a glimpse of that possible future with Carter, she goes all out to get her chance to see where things between them can go. I loved that for her and the clever way she went about it was hilarious! Carter really didn't stand a chance but it was fun to see him try to rationalize, explain away and flat out deny that Scarlet was indeed special. Especially when everyone around him could see that she put him off-kilter 😆

If you like morally gray MCs that slay together, I definitely recommend this one. 10/10

Favorites Bits:
🖤 The unhinged, perfectly flawed MCs
🖤 Tabitha, the triceratops
🖤 Their unique form of banter/flirting 🔥❤️‍🔥🔥


SAFETY INFO:
Profile Image for 💜VGreedyReader🖤.
666 reviews131 followers
February 27, 2025
To say Carter carved a piece of my heart would be an understatement, I knew I would like him, what I wasn’t ready for, it’s the obsession I developed. I was even less prepared for my newly acquired fixation: Scarlet!

Carter and Scarlet are a match made of fire and blood, they aren’t just made for each other they are a prime example of everything sacred and beautiful. Lilith truly outdid herself and gifted us one of the best stories ever! Featuring a unique and unforgettable couple.

I love the world of The Sanctum and all its anti heroes but for me, this is the best instalment, and although we still have to read Maddox story, I know for a fact Carter will live rent free in my soul until the end of time.

Besides portraying formidable characters, this author also provides a solid plot and unexpected moments, the turns of events are well woven into the narrative, giving a fast paced reading experience and an interesting twist that will propel you into the next opus.

Told in dual POV, we get into the story by delving into past and exploring the present, with each unveiling of we can learn new things and what make these two main characters differently from your everyday protagonist. I enjoyed the dash of mystery while exploring their journey, my kindle melted, along with my sanity, indulging into some scorching hot moments, their chemistry and filthy ways abundantly satisfied my thirst. Leave all your prudish way at the door because these two will make you burn, indulging has never felt so good. Getting up and close with Carter and Scarlet is an experience I would strongly recommend. Be warned of the potential addiction you might develop.

The overall reading experience is well connected to the previous instalments but it’s still possible to read as a standalone without ruining the experience should you want to read the other characters’ stories. Being a series of interconnected stand-alone you're all good if you haven't read books 1 to 3.
But for a better grip on this world, I recommend starting with book 1.
Profile Image for Little monster.
722 reviews19 followers
March 1, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book! I loved this so so much 😍

I was so in love with Carter and Scarlet during this book. Their dynamic and chemistry is super hot and of course unhinged but hot damn!! I was routing for them from the beginning.

This is a thrilling Mafia lead story that has dark themes and some major depth to it which will keep you entertained all the way to the very end. After Scarlet walks in on her husband cheating on her with her best friend but despite the fact she wants to end them both....she chooses to go for a run to blow off the steam she's feeling.....when she hears a man begging for his life from a dark alleyway. Enthralled she can't seem to move from what's happening in front of her! She then comes face to face with Carter Pierce 😍 now he knows he's gotta kill her because she's a witness to his crime....only can he get her out of his system? Or does he want to? When Scarlet's so-called husband starts to threaten her when she asks for a divorce, can Carter jump in and help her out?

I LOVED both of the main characters so ruddy much!! Scarlet is just wow she isn't scared of Carter one bit and pushes him back and I love that. They are both unhinged and for me I love that!! Carter doesn't feel emotions at all but when he's around Scarlet he knows she's doing something to him. The fact she toys with him pushes those feelings to the forefront and he just doesn't know what to do with them. I loved every minute of reading this book I know there are books before this one and I will definitely go and read them to get a feel for the characters within this series. Honestly if you love unhinged characters, mafia lead stories, obsessed with each other and some spice then you'll love this too.
Profile Image for Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews.
552 reviews17 followers
March 2, 2025
Scarlet walks in on her husband cheating on her with her best friend and, despite her murderous tendencies, chooses to go for a run instead of paint the walls with their blood. Unfortunately nothing is helping, until she hears the senseless man begging for their life from a dark alleyway. Enraptured, she approaches and comes face to face with the renown and deadly Carter Pierce taking a piece of flesh from a man who deserves it. Now that they've got their sights set on each other, there's nothing to stop the obsession from festering.

*****

This is my first book from this author, and I'm gonna need to read every single thing she's ever written. I don't care if it's a grocery list, I want eyes on it. This book has become my absolute Roman empire. The leads both being unhinged was an absolute delight. Scarlet being so freaking incredible within her skillset, and absolutely insane when it comes to her craft made this book so ridiculously entertaining. I was captivated and I don't mean that lightly.

Carter's void of emotions holding firm, while being enraptured by everything Scarlet does, and how she toys with him to no end had me burning the midnight oil to read this as it was just the perfect cat-and-mouse. They counteract and compliment each other so perfectly, while also not truly changing who they are as characters to try to force a stereotypical HEA. Yet still having a conclusion that suits them perfectly was just, chefs kiss. This was such a refreshing and unique read that I can't wait to dive through the rest of the series to get a peek into how her other characters function.

If you want unhinged, obsessed, mutual stalking with a side of great spice? Grab this one!

*****

Thank you to The Author Agency for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Natiley Holmes.
343 reviews12 followers
February 16, 2025
ARC Review

I am absolutely captivated by Carter and Scarlet! Their dynamic is intense, unhinged, and a little crazy, which makes for an exhilarating read. The chemistry between them is palpable, and I found myself rooting for their complicated relationship from the very start.

The blurb sets the stage for a thrilling mafia romance filled with dark themes and emotional depth. Scarlet's fierce determination to not be seen as prey, combined with her undeniable attraction to Carter, creates a tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The way their paths intertwine after a violent encounter adds layers to their connection, making it impossible to put the book down.

Carter, as one of the kings of the underworld, brings a dangerous allure that is both enticing and terrifying. His character is complex, and I couldn't wait to see how his relationship with Scarlet evolves. The stakes are high, and the emotional turmoil is palpable, making this a must-read for fans of dark romance.

I’m definitely looking forward to diving into the rest of the series because if Carved Obsession is any indication, Lilith Roman has crafted a world that is both thrilling and deeply engaging. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a good mix of danger, passion, and a touch of madness!
Profile Image for Chantelle Smith.
51 reviews2 followers
March 2, 2025
"I may not know what love is, but it better not be less than this, because you deserve so much more. I call you 'mine', but all l've done so far is prove that I am yours."

"I thought my darkness was too devoid of stars for you when, infact, it was just waiting for the brightest of them all to come along and claim the throne. My scarlet queen."

This was my first read from the author Lilith Roman and I was absolutely captivated by Carter and Scarlet! Their dynamic is intense, unhinged, and a little crazy, which makes for an exhilarating read. The chemistry between them is palpable, and I found myself rooting for their complicated relationship from the very start.

The main characters are fantastic, and I adored the FMC. She's so unique and refreshing! The chemistry between her and Carter is electric, and the tension is off the charts. The plot is engaging, with plenty of action to keep things exciting.Carter and Scarlet's dynamic is intense, hot, and crazy, but in the best way possible. I enjoyed every moment!

This book is the perfect mix of dark, steamy, and ridiculously fun. If you love mafia romances with badass, unconventional characters, plenty of action, and a heavy dose of spice, you need this on your TBR. One thing's for sure-this won't be my last Lilith book. If the rest of her stories are anything like this, I'll be bingeing her entire backlist next!
Thank you to the author, Lilian Roman, and The Author Agency team for this ARC opportunity.
862 reviews10 followers
March 5, 2025
Carter is such a charmer and mysteriously dangerous which I loved in him. His way of being was captivating. It was adorable how you can tell how he could melt for Scarlet who loved to work him up. They had game.

These two so different but yet so alike. Their background stories made so much sense and plays a huge part of who they are. They complimented each other so well and their chemistry was off the charts.

I truly loved this book and the story of Carter and Scarlet. It was the perfect dark romance with enough steam.

I’m thankful to The Author Agency and Lilith Roman for the ARC copy and appreciation the opportunity to read and provide my own honest opinion.
144 reviews2 followers
March 2, 2025
amazing read

Scarlett and Carter are perfect for each other. The Sanctum Syndicate series has had me hooked from book one and each book just keeps getting better. These stories live rent free in my head and I love every second of it. Carter has met his match with Scarlett and she is the perfect blend of unhinged and pure sunshine. I love her character so much. I also really enjoyed just how much she gave Carter a run for his money. She never stops surprising him and I think that’s part of why he is so enamored with her. They both fully accept each others brand of crazy and it is beautiful. I could not put this book down and was sad when it came to an end. This might actually be my favorite of the four books so far! Can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.5k reviews260 followers
February 28, 2025
This is the fourth book in this impressive series and this is Carter and Scarlet’s story.
Carter is one off the kings who rule the underworld, and when Scarlet finds out that her husband is cheating on her with her best friend she leaves, and witnesses something she should not have, and Carter sees her. These two match each other perfectly. This story flits between the past and the present to get an understanding of the content.
This is a well written slow burn, action packed story, with family, friendships, emotions, obsession, touch her / him and die vibes, morally grey, humor, witty banter, palpable chemistry, challenges, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, tragic, haunting, and twisted, dark mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Nikki B..
999 reviews22 followers
March 5, 2025
This is my first Lilith Roman story and I am hooked with her writing. Her characters are so wonderfully written and in depth, they feel like real people I might know in real life, though, Scarlet and Carter are both unhinged and a little crazy. Scarlett is an absolute bad ass. Knowing that this man is out to possibly kill you for witnessing something you shouldn't have, and then proceeding to toy with him, send him puzzles, break into his house...girl is crazy, but is serving!! There is an intense chemistry between them and once they give in to each other, that chemistry explodes. I haven't read any of the other books sin the series, but I will for sure be going back and reading them all now.
Profile Image for Anshul (stories.buddy).
1,060 reviews18 followers
February 28, 2025
Oh my gosh!! This baby(I mean the book), Scarlet and Carter have my heart now. I am freaking obsessed here. Lilith did it again and now I’ll be waiting for the last one standing.

The story is beautiful and the curve of it got me addicted to it. I didn’t want it to end because of how much I adore it. I love how the character grew in the book and how things developed in such an intense manner, it gave us reasons to be curious and to be on our toes.

The banter is fabulous and seeing the old characters was so much fun. Scarlet’s family is something and I got intrigued about them too. This bunch was so similar to each other that I was saying within a few pages-“they are made for each other in more ways than one”. A must-read series.
Profile Image for Sarah  Ibarra .
187 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2025
Absolutely amazing! Two very different people meet all because Scarlet walked up on a man trying to get some answers.. Carter is a founder of the Sanctum who likes to inflict pain to get what he needs but Scarlet puts a wrench in his focus. After disappearing for months she’s back in the picture in an unexpected way. What’s starts out as a game of payback turns into beautifully dark relationship and I loved it! It’s gets very hot and spicy throughout the story but how it ends was even more perfect
Profile Image for ruppert.
41 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2025
Loved this book!
Carter has finally found his match with Scarlett. It all started the night in the Dark alleyway. She taunts him and is always one step ahead.
"How dare he make me desire what he’s offering to another woman! How dare he awaken this starving need to find out if there’s an ounce of possibility for me to feel what she feels! How fucking dare he! And after he tried to kill me, nonetheless. The nerve of this man."
"Let the games begin, killer- boy."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sam.
303 reviews6 followers
February 28, 2025
If you’ve read the other books in the series and thought ANYTHING of Carter Pierce, it’s true.
But then add more layers to it. Add more intrigue.
Then meet Scarlet.
Who ngl, if you enjoyed Lights Out, Scarlet’s story with The Carver really gave me LO vibes. Not the same because actual premeditated m*rder but ya know. It’s a mafia rom. Shut up. But the energy between the MCs was what felt like that.
I laughed, I kicked my little feet, I got tears on my titties and got a lot hot and bothered 💀😂

I will forever be haunted by The Sanctum and honestly, I wouldn’t have them any other way.

Thank you Lilith for another incredible ARC. BRING ON MADDS BABYYYY!
Profile Image for Kimberly Walters.
740 reviews3 followers
March 2, 2025
This was my first book by Lilith, and let’s just say it won’t be my last. I absolutely devoured this book!
I am absolutely obsessed with Carter and Scarlet! They were both a little unhinged in the best way possible. They kept me hooked from the start—with banter, action, steamy romance, and plenty of spice.
I’m definitely looking forward to diving into the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Rachel Burke.
166 reviews6 followers
March 2, 2025
*GUSHING*

Oh my goodness!!!! *silent screams* this book, I am speechless. I feel like Carter right now, unable to put my feelings into words! This was amazing!! So loaded and their unique conditions. I SO THOROUGHLY enjoyed the F*** out of their stories and this plot and everything!! Obsessed!! Enthralled!!
Profile Image for Megan Henry.
573 reviews13 followers
February 22, 2025
Literally obsessed with Carter and Scarlett!! I swear the more men we’re introduced to in this world the better! They just keep getting better and better!! Carter and Scarlett are a little unhinged, but TOTALLY amazing!!
Profile Image for Manya Spain Becker.
203 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2025
Carved Obsession

The Sanctum Syndicate collection gets better and better. Lilith Roman nailed these amazing characters. Carter and Scarlet are gloriously captivating and the steam level is off the charts.
Profile Image for Megan Fraser.
87 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2025
I've enjoyed this whole series, but this one quickly became my favorite of the series. I loved the cat and mouse vibes between Scarlett and Carter. Plus, who doesn't love unhinged characters. I enjoyed getting to see Carter's progression from only having "playthings" to wanting something more meaningful with Scarlett.
Profile Image for Melissa Raylene.
39 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2025
I loved this book! Scarlett and Carver are his to her yang😍 !
Definitely a must read! This book keeps you on edge at times where you just want to know more! I give this book 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and half for spice not much happens until half way through ! Storyline and plot are engaging all around a great read!
Profile Image for Francheska .
998 reviews
February 27, 2025
Carter and Scarlet .. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time !! Their chemistry is electric ⚡️ I found myself a fan of their relationship.
They are made of fire and ice . Absolutely made for each other ! This was my first novel by this author and I’m absolutely obsessed 😍

Profile Image for Noemi Salazar.
261 reviews6 followers
March 1, 2025
Carved Obsession
By Lilith Roman

5⭐ 3 🌶️

Tropes:
🔥Quiet psycho x unhinged sunshine
🖤Slow burn
🔥Boy obsessed
🖤Touch her / him and die
🔥Organized crime
🖤Dual POV
🔥No 3rd act break up
🖤Interconnected Standalone

Main Characters:
Scarlet & Carter

Stand out lines/quotes:
“Punishment is not bred only of agony, kitten. Sometimes, it’s born of the deprivation of pleasure.”

My Thoughts:
Scarlet is officially my book girlfriend. I loved her. I loved the banter between her and Carter. I loved how she played little games with him and I just love how everything just came together between the two of them. This was really such a good story. I enjoyed it so much, and the spice was just a good bonus. A very very good bonus.
Profile Image for Jessica.
154 reviews11 followers
February 26, 2025
✨ 𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎 ✨

𝓒𝓪𝓻𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓞𝓫𝓼𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 by Lilith Roman

Releases: 02.28.25

5⭐️

🔗: https://books2read.com/u/m208Bk

𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓋𝒾𝒷𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽:
🔪Quiet Psycho x Unhinged Sunshine
🖤Slow Burn
❤️‍🔥Boy Obsessed
🔪Touch her/him & ☠️
🖤Organized Crime
❤️‍🔥One Bed
🔪Badass Heroine
🖤Cat & Mouse Vibes
❤️‍🔥Morally Grey MMC & FMC

My favorite kind of book is when the FMC is just as (if not more unhinged) unhinged as the MMC. It really makes for a lot of tension, banter, and great wtf moments. Carter and Scarlet’s interactions had me forgetting to breathe at parts because I was so captivated. The way they are written their chemistry is off the charts. My favorite FMCs will forever be those that don’t take any shit from any man, who may snap at the drop of a hat, and can hold their own in a fight (verbal or otherwise). Scarlet definitely fits the bill.

Thank you to The Author Agency and the author for the ARC!
Profile Image for Amanda Eastling.
116 reviews
March 1, 2025
Scarlet and Carter are the best. The way she doesn’t feel and he does t feel makes it so interesting. I love that the other guys got involved in this book two. I need to find a guy to play me violin and bend me over!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews