Sinful

Ritual Sins #1

by Stella Hart

Taking her was always part of the plan… but breaking her might be the best revenge of all.

I’ve spent years watching her, planning my revenge against the twisted cult that destroyed my family. Now, it’s time to take what’s mine.

Rose Trudeau, daughter of the Covenant’s leader, is finally within my grasp. I’ve watched her every move, learned her deepest fears, and now she’s going to pay for what her people did to me.

Taking her isn’t just about revenge. It’s about power. She’ll be my prisoner, my pawn, and my ultimate weapon against the Covenant.

I’ll break her. Control her. And when the time comes, she won’t be begging for mercy—she’ll be begging for more.

The deeper I drag her into my world, the more she’ll come to realize… she was always mine.

The game has only just begun. You can’t escape me now, little Rose.


What to know about
MF (no sharing or cheating)
Possessive, obsessive, OTT (over the top) hero
Dual POV
This is a dark romance that contains subjects/themes that may be triggering for some.


Ritual Sins reading
Sacred (free short prequel)
Sinful (Book 1)
Sacrifice (Book 2)

Genres: Dark Romance

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 11, 2024

About the author

Stella Hart is the dark romance pen name of Alessandra Hart. She loves animals, red wine, and rainy days where she can curl up inside and plot new books instead of having to go out.

Reviews

[annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars

i'm kind of pissed rn because i thought it was a standalone lol, but it wasn't, and now i have to wait for another book EVEN THOUGH THIS WASN'T SO SPECIAL. the murder mystery plot is actually interesting though, so i might read the other one when it comes out.

i thought it was a mafia romance, but it's not. it revolves around the murder that happened 20 years ago — sebastian thorne's mother was killed by the covenant, aka the cult. they all act like innocent people, and nothing was ever proven. now he wants to know what really happened and get answers, so he planned to kidnap the governor's daughter and blackmail them.

⌞Sebastian Thorne & Rosemund Trudeau⌝
ᯓ 28-24

nvm, he fooled them, gained their trust, and also made friends with rose. everything was fine, and he very cleverly manipulated her and kidnapped her. if you've read acotar, then the whole covenant community, alderwood, is just like velaris. a small peaceful city where everyone is eQuAl.

sebastian's pov was kind of fun because he was roasting the shit out of her father, but rose's pov was so dumb, i was actually having secondhand embarrassment. like, i get it, you're born in a cult where they don't have modern technologies and have rules and shit, BUT isn't she human enough to wish for things like love, marriage, or children? she was like a proper sacrificial goat, and the way she described things like the entity, darkness, light, soul, and other superficial terms—I was so fucking bored because girl, STOP!

and she did NOT refer to periods as MONTHLY MOONBLOOD 😭

besides, they use LAMPS even though they have electricity, and it's the year 2024 in the book. TWENTY TWENTY FOUR. two zero two four.

wtf.

and ngl, this whole cult was too fucked up. their rituals were so toxic, misogynistic, and the people were so brainwashed, omg it was so weird and uncomfortable! the whole celestial virgin sacrifice and people being elated to watch the virgins sacrifice themselves (by dying) and shit! the heroine was the most brainwashed one lol.

sebastian keeping her captive and torturing her with toys and a whip shshsj was so uncomfortable because, tbh the heroine was dumb as rocks. i wasn't liking her at all. she was KIDNAPPED, and the drug made her memory foggy, and she was like:

"maybe i'm dead and the entity gave me another life... with sebastian."

like girl, pls shut the fuck up 😭

whatever, she went BACK to her fucked up covenant, and it ended with her being taken away for 'punishment,' and her father believing she lied. i don't know what the fuck was happening ahshsjsz. it was cringe in the relationship aspect, and the heroine was just DUMBBBBB, but the plot is kinda- 😗

[Shelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this for my book club and not bad! I was surprised that the story continues which is extremely rare for romance books nowadays

[Kaytee Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Sin for a Dark Captive Romance by Stella Hart! Every spare moment I had, I found myself reaching for this book—I was completely hooked from start to finish.

Although I haven’t read the prequel, I’ll definitely be picking it up soon because this story was such a thrilling introduction to Stella’s world. The dark romance between Sebastian and Rosie is intense and captivating, with a dynamic that pulls you into every twist and turn. I also loved the depth and detail that went into exploring the cult in Alderwood, which added a chilling layer to the story.

And the cliffhanger! It left me desperate for the second book—I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. As a fan of dark romance, this one was right up my alley. Stella Hart nailed the intense, edgy vibes that make dark romance so addictive, and I couldn’t get enough of it.

This was an advanced reader copy, but you can consider me one of Stella’s newest fans—I’ll probably be buying most of what she writes! This book definitely hooked me, and I loved it so much. If you’re a fan of dark romance with well-developed characters and a gripping plot, Sin for a Dark Captive Romance is a must-read. Five stars from me, and I highly recommend it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon currently will not let me leave a review ✨

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of my most intriguing and surprising reads of the year, I could not put this book down! I would definitely recommend reading the prequel Sacred, as it gives a brief background glimpse into the story and main characters and their history.

MMC Sebastian has been planning his revenge on the Covenant for years and is willing to use FMC Rose as his means to carry it out. He wants to destroy the Covenant and her father, she is just a means to an end. He has been watching her for years and now is the time to make his move and carry out his very elaborate plans.

I really liked both Sebastian and Rose, they had great chemistry. She is very innocent and accepting, he is super intense. As they are closer to each other and learn about one another, they both discover surprising qualities that draw them together.

The writing was so incredibly good and Stella Hart did an amazing job of setting the scene, environment, and atmosphere. The vibes are reminiscent of M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village, kind of small town homey but creepy at the same time.

Cannot wait for book 2 and I am hoping that we get some more background as there definitely seems to be way more to this story. The side characters that we’ve heard about know all and I am looking forward to seeing the mysteries come to light.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.

This is the story of Sebastian and Rose. Sebastian is out for revenge against the Covenant for many years. To accomplish this he has been watching Rose for years. I don't know that I want to tell you more than this. There is a prequel to this series. Sacred. You really should read it first as it sets you up perfectly to understand some of the things happening in this book. I loved reading this book I don't think that I laid it down once the entire time I was reading it. It has a lot of twists and turns that keep you one the edge of your seat and on your toes. It is actually pretty intense in some parts. I loved the relationship, twisted as it is between Sebastian and Rose. They have some amazing chemistry between them and it just bleeds off the pages. If you love your romance's dark and twisted then you do not want to miss this book.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on to your seat as you’re in for a wild ride of emotions!
The prequel may have set the stage for this series, but Sinful pulls you in and hangs you out to dry! It’s easy to hate Sebastian as he plans his revenge meticulously with Rose at the heart of it. I easily fell in to Sebastian’s routine at the Covenant with Rose and feel for Rose’s well being as she comes out of her shell with Sebastian at the helm. The dynamics between Sebastian and his father is another twist especially after Sebastian’s friend discovers interesting records at the hospital where his father works. Rose is no pushover as you witness what plays out between the two. I screamed at Rose for her defense of the Covenant and worried how it will all play out at the end when Sebastian enacts his revenge on the Covenant. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see how it all plays out.

[Spooky Bookish Bit*h · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sinful was a great read, I am so glad I read the prequel (Sacred) because it gave me more insight and background although it isn't necessary it is worth the read! This is an intense, gripping, addictive dark romance that'll have you thinking you figured it out until boom Stella hits you with a plot twist! The characters are so well developed and twisted as it may be I love Sebastian's and Rose's relationship! I cannot wait for book 2!! (Sacrifice) Overall this book was well put together, has a gripping storyline, awesome characters and everything you need for a great dark romance! Beware of that cliffhanger though!

[Misty Schott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will Sebastian get the answers he wants?

Sebastian believes The Covenant is responsible for his mother's death and he has plans to find out the truth. Rosemund (Rose) is a Covenant member and believes in everything she's been taught since she was born. She is what the consider a Celestial Virgin and is high ranking among them. Sebastian plans to kidnap Rose to find out the truth about his mother's murder and he doesn't care if he has to hurt her in the process. This is book one and ends on a cliffhanger.

[Lisa Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad I read sacred( the prequel) first because it gave a much better insight into why Rose felt the way she did and why she trusted that Sebastian had been put in her path for a reason.
The plot was awesome and the twist..if it’s going to turn out how I think is mind blowing!
Loved Sebastian and Rose’s twisted relationship and even though I shouldn’t I’m hoping the next book will give them a happy ending.
This book was dark, twisted and I absolutely loved it!!
I’m gutted I need to wait for book 2- Sacrifice to see what happens next. That cliffhanger got me good!!
Highly recommend it if you like your romance dark and twisted and also plenty of action and plot to go with it 🖤

[Kelly Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

The suspense was off the charts, i was literally on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next, so much mystery and intrigue, i cant wait to see how this story develops. I liked the chemistry between Rose and Sebastian, although i have to question both their motives. The ending was not what i was expecting at all....cant wait to see what happens next.

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

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark and Intense

Sinful is the first book in the Ritual Sins duet. The is a free prequel, Sacred, that sets up the story of Rosamund/Rose and Sebastian. After reading the prequel I was intrigued to see where the author took the story and she took it beyond any expectation I had. Be warned that this book does end with a cliffhanger, so be prepared to read the second book. The story is dark, twisted, intense, mysterious, with a lot of sizzling chemistry.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sebastian and Rose's dark romance takes some twisted turns as his obsession with her hits a whole new level. I recommend you read the prequel Sacred before starting this book to fully understand what is going on. This is a captivating, well written romance with well developed characters that have an intense and twisted relationship. I am loving this series and after that cliffhanger ending I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be sure to read the prequel Sacred first. It gives a great backstory to Sebastian and Rose's twisted story. Sinful is fantastic! The characters and their story is absolutely consuming and extremely intense. This one ends on a cliffhanger that left me trying to put the pieces together on what I think will happen. The wait for Sacrifice is excruciating. I can't wait for more of their journey.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

best read after the prequal Sacred, Sebastian is out for revenge agains the cult and taking Rose will be his ulitmate revenge, shes the cult eaders daughter and breaking her will bring him peace or will it? well written steamy dark themese drama and a cliffy ending that has you craving more!.

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

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

That's just evil to end the book this way. I have to find out what happens next! Just when I think I have figured out where the author is going with this book I am surprised and rerouted. Rose and Sebastian are on a collision course. Someone is going to get hurt.

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

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Romantic Thriller/Suspense, and this is the first book in the Ritual Sins series. The beginning of this book was really good, and it pulled me into the story right away. My problem with this book is that I really did not like the ending, and I found the middle to be a bit boring. I just wanted more connection with the characters and/or more action. I also wanted more on the mother's case because that is what I really enjoyed about this book. Overall, This book was ok. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[ZeeZee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Rose's innocence in believing in the sanctity of the Covenant leads Sebastian to have an opening into figuring out the mystery behind his mother's disappearance.
The cliffhanger ended so well that I cannot wait for the next book.

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

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in this duet. This is a dark mafia read with loads of drama, suspense and sizzle. Sebastian is out for revenge and plans to use Rose to get it. He plans to destroy the Covenant and the leader, who is also Rose’s father. Will he succeed? Fast-paced read with great characters and lots of action, I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it.

[RoseyLovesBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sebastian has waited years to get answers, justice and vengeance. Too bad for Rose, Sebastian thinks she's the key. Sinful is a dark romance packed with drama, intrigue, suspense, twists, and steam—leaving me wanting more! Sinful ends on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to find out what happens next in Sacrifice, book 2 of the Ritual Sins series!

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book just felt long and repetitive to me. The story was good and I enjoyed both Rose and Sebastian. There were parts that were long and dry though, because they were just repeating what had already been put forth a couple chapters prior except for a tiny nugget of added detail. Maybe it was a stylistic choice, but it made the book longer than necessary.

[Brenda A · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cliffhanger

The writing and the plot was good and the story Drew you in. However I thought the MMC was very cruel which took away from the story. She hadn't eaten for 3 days and the first thing he did was brutally take her virginity . It was good but I will not be paying $4 to finish it up.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Seb and Rose... this story was captured me from the beginning, and i couldn't put it down! I can't wait for me, I NEED to continue this story!

[Gladys · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sebastian and Rose's story is gripping and gritty. Rich with drama, intensity, tension, emotion and twist, this book pulled me in and left me eager to get my hands on the next book.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing this author does well is dark romance.
Well written, dark and suspenseful book that kept me hooked, best read after the prequel.
Ends on on a cliff hanger, can't wait for the next book.

[Gaynor Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shades

Dark, complex, intense, and full of twists and turns! This is one rollercoaster of a ride of obsession, possession, and desire that you won't want to miss!!

[Crystal McCullum · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Note to self) KU does not have book 2 avail.

[Berthina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book just felt long and repetitive a couple of times. But the story was good and I enjoyed both Rose and Sebastian pov's.