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Babalon
Blurb
Nadia
Dad raised me to be a hard ass and that trait didn't dissolve when I moved out of his house. In fact, when I finally got my 'big girl' job at the prison it got worse. I have been observing Kace for a year now. Fucking with his visitation, limiting his recreation time, and even relocating his commissary funds to other emails just for the hell of it. Once he jumped on my radar, he fucked up. I make his life hell, little did I know my own was about to rail road me.
Kace
I fucked up one damn time and got thrown into this shit hole. Vehicular manslaughter. Judge took one look at me, with the governor whispering in his ear, and threw away the fucking key. No second chances, nothing. So, I have been here for 10 years and finally have made a name for myself. I had to learn to fight pretty quickly, especially when the Brotherhood got one good look at my blond hair and blue eyes. Thankfully, my newly found notoriety has kept me safe for the better part of my sentencing. Now though? I have a bitch of a guard on my ass. Slowly ruining what life I have left.
Lucien
She doesn't know me, but I know her. I have known her all of my life. Watched her from afar as soon as I was old enough, and quiet enough, to sneak out of the house and find her. We never lived too far from one another but the Pastor made my escapes rather difficult. Most times, my disappearances led to many lost child police reports but in the end... my mom knew I wasn't going to stop.
The psychologist said I am a "little off." Whatever that means. I feel normal, like everyone else. Just sometimes... somethings.. set me off. So, when I got sent to the prison she is a guard at, I snapped when I found out she was being a fucking whore for one of the inmates. She is mine and I will fucking kill anyone who lays a hand on her.
The content within this book are for mature audiences only. Your mental health matters. Proceed at your own risk.
Nadia
Dad raised me to be a hard ass and that trait didn't dissolve when I moved out of his house. In fact, when I finally got my 'big girl' job at the prison it got worse. I have been observing Kace for a year now. Fucking with his visitation, limiting his recreation time, and even relocating his commissary funds to other emails just for the hell of it. Once he jumped on my radar, he fucked up. I make his life hell, little did I know my own was about to rail road me.
Kace
I fucked up one damn time and got thrown into this shit hole. Vehicular manslaughter. Judge took one look at me, with the governor whispering in his ear, and threw away the fucking key. No second chances, nothing. So, I have been here for 10 years and finally have made a name for myself. I had to learn to fight pretty quickly, especially when the Brotherhood got one good look at my blond hair and blue eyes. Thankfully, my newly found notoriety has kept me safe for the better part of my sentencing. Now though? I have a bitch of a guard on my ass. Slowly ruining what life I have left.
Lucien
She doesn't know me, but I know her. I have known her all of my life. Watched her from afar as soon as I was old enough, and quiet enough, to sneak out of the house and find her. We never lived too far from one another but the Pastor made my escapes rather difficult. Most times, my disappearances led to many lost child police reports but in the end... my mom knew I wasn't going to stop.
The psychologist said I am a "little off." Whatever that means. I feel normal, like everyone else. Just sometimes... somethings.. set me off. So, when I got sent to the prison she is a guard at, I snapped when I found out she was being a fucking whore for one of the inmates. She is mine and I will fucking kill anyone who lays a hand on her.
The content within this book are for mature audiences only. Your mental health matters. Proceed at your own risk.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2025
151 people are currently reading
1028 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
February 24, 2025
I just finished this book and made the biggest drink I’ve ever made and I’m staring at a wall. What. The. Literal. F. Just. Happened.
This is not what I was expecting, in all of the best ways. Kace, I love you. Nadia, our FMC, has been dealt the shittiest hand in life and finally finds someone (an inmate at the prison where she works) who treats her in a way that makes your heart flutter. The spice was so well written and their relationship build was everything.
Going into this book I knew it was a dark prison romance and there were two main male characters, Lucien and Kace. My brain envisioned a love triangle. I didn’t know the depth of their character developments or their backstories and it was so much more emotional and deep and insane than I thought going in. It was not at all what I expected! Lucien’s completely crazy his obsessions and compulsions and rationalizing his behavior because of his own past trauma… like no bro you are just certifiable, God doesn’t work that way.
I was kicking and screaming at the end of this book. I’m so pissed it’s part of a duet and the second part doesn’t come out for over 3 months. I’m broken, Ive got so many questions.
This book is incredible. The pace, plot, characters. I’ve read so many books and have definitely never read anything anywhere close to being like this. It’s so unique. It’s its own genre.
Props to the author for making me feel so strongly, I’ll be sending you my next therapy bill.
“What I want is to find a way for you to get released. Even if that requires bribing the wrong people. I want you to come home with me, to share my bed, to eat the shitty food I make, and to fall asleep with me on the patio when it storms. I want to wake up to you every morning, watch the stars in your eyes every night, and feel you curl around me when your heart calls to mine.”
This is not what I was expecting, in all of the best ways. Kace, I love you. Nadia, our FMC, has been dealt the shittiest hand in life and finally finds someone (an inmate at the prison where she works) who treats her in a way that makes your heart flutter. The spice was so well written and their relationship build was everything.
Going into this book I knew it was a dark prison romance and there were two main male characters, Lucien and Kace. My brain envisioned a love triangle. I didn’t know the depth of their character developments or their backstories and it was so much more emotional and deep and insane than I thought going in. It was not at all what I expected! Lucien’s completely crazy his obsessions and compulsions and rationalizing his behavior because of his own past trauma… like no bro you are just certifiable, God doesn’t work that way.
I was kicking and screaming at the end of this book. I’m so pissed it’s part of a duet and the second part doesn’t come out for over 3 months. I’m broken, Ive got so many questions.
This book is incredible. The pace, plot, characters. I’ve read so many books and have definitely never read anything anywhere close to being like this. It’s so unique. It’s its own genre.
Props to the author for making me feel so strongly, I’ll be sending you my next therapy bill.
“What I want is to find a way for you to get released. Even if that requires bribing the wrong people. I want you to come home with me, to share my bed, to eat the shitty food I make, and to fall asleep with me on the patio when it storms. I want to wake up to you every morning, watch the stars in your eyes every night, and feel you curl around me when your heart calls to mine.”
February 17, 2025
WRECKED!!!!
I need a moment to process and a glass of wine because WTF did I just finish reading?
Alair Novak wove an insane tale... a dark prison romance... but like DARK DARK... don't say I didn't warn you. But seriously it was so good! Like you can't even fathom how good it was until you've read and experienced it yourself.
The plot switches POV's between our prison guard FMC - Nadia, Kace - our sweet and super hot MMC inmate... and our other crazy inmate - Lucian, AKA Coo-Coo Man. The plot is wild. There are moments when it switches between past and present, so you learn more of the character's back stories and their trauma.
The emotional damage is real. I am not even joking... you will end up having a love-hate relationship with all of her characters because they are so crazy. They make you laugh, cry, scream - a legitimate rollercoaster of emotions, but it's cathartic in the end. The end left me completely speechless... I'll be here waiting rather impatiently for book 2.
I need a moment to process and a glass of wine because WTF did I just finish reading?
Alair Novak wove an insane tale... a dark prison romance... but like DARK DARK... don't say I didn't warn you. But seriously it was so good! Like you can't even fathom how good it was until you've read and experienced it yourself.
The plot switches POV's between our prison guard FMC - Nadia, Kace - our sweet and super hot MMC inmate... and our other crazy inmate - Lucian, AKA Coo-Coo Man. The plot is wild. There are moments when it switches between past and present, so you learn more of the character's back stories and their trauma.
The emotional damage is real. I am not even joking... you will end up having a love-hate relationship with all of her characters because they are so crazy. They make you laugh, cry, scream - a legitimate rollercoaster of emotions, but it's cathartic in the end. The end left me completely speechless... I'll be here waiting rather impatiently for book 2.
February 14, 2025
“I was her prisoner, in body and in heart.” 🥹
So … first thing I wanna say is buckle up cause it’s a rough ride through this story!
This book was an absolute masterpiece, and nothing anyone can say will make me change my mind… EVER! This was one of my most anticipated reads and I couldn’t for the life of me put it down. This book broke me in the best and worst ways at the same time and it will now and forever live rent free in my head. I fell in love with these characters and hated them as well. I felt every emotion while reading whether what was anger, love, sadness, and absolute rage… and that ending killed me. Just when you think this story was gonna go one way, nope it’s goes in a completely different direction. I loved every single second of this book and it is 100% a MUST READ!!! This book has easily made one of my top reads ever! Absolutely phenomenal, and I can’t wait for more!
So … first thing I wanna say is buckle up cause it’s a rough ride through this story!
This book was an absolute masterpiece, and nothing anyone can say will make me change my mind… EVER! This was one of my most anticipated reads and I couldn’t for the life of me put it down. This book broke me in the best and worst ways at the same time and it will now and forever live rent free in my head. I fell in love with these characters and hated them as well. I felt every emotion while reading whether what was anger, love, sadness, and absolute rage… and that ending killed me. Just when you think this story was gonna go one way, nope it’s goes in a completely different direction. I loved every single second of this book and it is 100% a MUST READ!!! This book has easily made one of my top reads ever! Absolutely phenomenal, and I can’t wait for more!
April 3, 2025
I hate writing negative reviews, especially for a new author who probably published independently but this book was not ready to be published. There were multiple obvious spelling and grammatical errors that should have easily been caught during a proofread. I found some of the continuity problems distracting from the stories and character development.
Lastly, I wished the author would have “shown” and not “told” the story. There were too many flashbacks that didn’t add to the story and when the information from the flashbacks were revealed to other characters in the present it was repetitive to the reader and anticlimactic.
Giving it 3 stars for being willing to take risks and explore some dark ideas. There’s an intriguing plot here, but missing understandable character motivations and engaging narrations.
Lastly, I wished the author would have “shown” and not “told” the story. There were too many flashbacks that didn’t add to the story and when the information from the flashbacks were revealed to other characters in the present it was repetitive to the reader and anticlimactic.
Giving it 3 stars for being willing to take risks and explore some dark ideas. There’s an intriguing plot here, but missing understandable character motivations and engaging narrations.
May 7, 2025
*slowly claps hands*
This book was sooooo good. Like SO GOOD. Absolutely heartbreaking, ends off on a cliffhanger and now I’m impatient for the 2nd book to come out at the end of the month 😭 I just know I won’t stop thinking about this one for a long time *sigh*
This book was sooooo good. Like SO GOOD. Absolutely heartbreaking, ends off on a cliffhanger and now I’m impatient for the 2nd book to come out at the end of the month 😭 I just know I won’t stop thinking about this one for a long time *sigh*
February 14, 2025
Alright book besties, I’m back at it with another banger of a book recommendation for you. Firstly, I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Now on to my actual review: I am unwell. Alair Novak broke me on Valentine’s Day with this book, that’s how amazing it is. It’s dark, it’s set in prison, it’s violent and honestly just everything I want in a current read. I’m sad, I have to wait for book two because honestly, I’m gonna have the worst book hangover.
The story follows Bad B—h Nadia, Bark Boy Kace, and Coo Coo Man Lucien. This book has sarcasm, banter, and will keep you on the edge of your seat waiting for what comes next. You’re going to love and hate these characters. You’ll feel anger, excitement, shock, dread, and love. It’s an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to get off of. The ending had me gasping out loud.
Do yourself a favor and read the book.
Now on to my actual review: I am unwell. Alair Novak broke me on Valentine’s Day with this book, that’s how amazing it is. It’s dark, it’s set in prison, it’s violent and honestly just everything I want in a current read. I’m sad, I have to wait for book two because honestly, I’m gonna have the worst book hangover.
The story follows Bad B—h Nadia, Bark Boy Kace, and Coo Coo Man Lucien. This book has sarcasm, banter, and will keep you on the edge of your seat waiting for what comes next. You’re going to love and hate these characters. You’ll feel anger, excitement, shock, dread, and love. It’s an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to get off of. The ending had me gasping out loud.
Do yourself a favor and read the book.
August 12, 2025
Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. The premise had potential, but the execution felt messy and hard to follow. I never fully connected with the characters. They just fell flat for me. And the “darker” vibe this book was suppose to have just didn’t seem to be there really..Overall it left me feeling more frustrated than entertained and I struggled to stay invested enough to finish.
March 31, 2025
“𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓹𝓻𝓲𝓼𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓻, 𝓲𝓷 𝓫𝓸𝓭𝔂 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓲𝓷 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽.“
⛓️💥ARC Review⛓️💥
I genuinely don’t even know where to start I am very much still digesting the absolute chaos that was Babalon…
I was expecting the dark and obsessive portion of this book but what I wasn’t expecting was quite literally everything else in the best way possible! With three separate POVs between Nadia the guard at Darkwater Correctional Institute, Kace and inmate who Nadia loves to hate and make miserable every day, and Lucien an inmate who has eyes set on Nadia for all the wrong reasons. The forbidden relationship between Nadia and Kace was dark and delicious to say the least. I loved seeing these two sorta find a balance within each other under a very unethical setting. When Lucien enters this story things go from dark to PITCH.BLACK. This book made me feel all the emotions and I need a good stare at the ceiling 😀😂 THE ENDING. THAT ENDING?! I was not prepared for it and it just made it all the more better. This is book one in a duet and ends on a doozey of a cliffhanger but I so highly recommend!
I am saying with my FULL CHEST pleaseeee check your trigger warnings before diving into this one it has some very dark topics and extremely dark scenes!
⛓️💥TROPES⛓️💥
⛓️💥INMATExGUARD
⛓️💥FORBIDDEN ROMANCE
⛓️💥BL00D AND GORE
⛓️💥ONLY I CAN HURT HIM/HER
⛓️💥BREEDING
⛓️💥RELIGIOUS THEMES
⛓️💥OBSESSION
⛓️💥TOUCH AND D!E
⛓️💥DUB/NON CON
⛓️💥ARC Review⛓️💥
I genuinely don’t even know where to start I am very much still digesting the absolute chaos that was Babalon…
I was expecting the dark and obsessive portion of this book but what I wasn’t expecting was quite literally everything else in the best way possible! With three separate POVs between Nadia the guard at Darkwater Correctional Institute, Kace and inmate who Nadia loves to hate and make miserable every day, and Lucien an inmate who has eyes set on Nadia for all the wrong reasons. The forbidden relationship between Nadia and Kace was dark and delicious to say the least. I loved seeing these two sorta find a balance within each other under a very unethical setting. When Lucien enters this story things go from dark to PITCH.BLACK. This book made me feel all the emotions and I need a good stare at the ceiling 😀😂 THE ENDING. THAT ENDING?! I was not prepared for it and it just made it all the more better. This is book one in a duet and ends on a doozey of a cliffhanger but I so highly recommend!
I am saying with my FULL CHEST pleaseeee check your trigger warnings before diving into this one it has some very dark topics and extremely dark scenes!
⛓️💥TROPES⛓️💥
⛓️💥INMATExGUARD
⛓️💥FORBIDDEN ROMANCE
⛓️💥BL00D AND GORE
⛓️💥ONLY I CAN HURT HIM/HER
⛓️💥BREEDING
⛓️💥RELIGIOUS THEMES
⛓️💥OBSESSION
⛓️💥TOUCH AND D!E
⛓️💥DUB/NON CON
November 24, 2025
This is one of the darker books I’ve read so far, but loved every page!! You get 3 POVs, a female guard, an inmate, and a stalker. DEFINITELY CHECK TWs!!! When there’s a pause midway through the book to double check you wanna read what comes next…😳.
March 10, 2025
Say it with me now. WHAT THE FUCK! I don't even know how I feel, but I know it's been WEEKS since this book finished me and I'm still pissed about it.
If it was so good Sam, why isn't it 5 stars? I'll tell you in simple terms. I'm salty about the way things went down.
Okay, let's back up a second.
Nadia is giving bitch energy. She's a fuck around and find out kind of girl. We love that.
Kace. I didn't think he would be my jam, but I would do anything that man told me to do and say thank you after.
Lucien. Fucking Lucien. He's full on crazy and I was like, "I like me some crazy." If he doesn't get his shit together in the next book, I'm going to lose it.
Now that we have the key heartbreakers in the review, let's continue.
Nadia fucks with Kace because well she wants him to take her to pound town. He's an inmate at the prison she works for, and she literally can not take the D unless she wants to spend a few years also behind bars.
Does that stop them?
Fuck no it doesn't.
(They have the best "FUCK IT" moment)
The spice between these two was 🥵🥵🥵. There are no words. Kace has a mouth on him and knows all the right things to say.
Then walks in this dude named Lucien. (Side note he's kind of a stalker😉) Now Lucien is completely pshyco. Lucien also claims our little officer as his.
In the end, some shit goes down. I went through all the stages of anger and grief in the last 15% of the book and I'm still not over it.
READ THE TRIGGERS. 📣 I am a dark romance girl, and some things that happened in this book made me pause and be like holy hell. When Alair says, take a break, take the flipping break! When she warns you about a certain chapter in the book and how it has a special warning just for that chapter? Take the time to think about it before you're like, oh well. Some fucked up shit happens.
Just read it. Trust me.
If it was so good Sam, why isn't it 5 stars? I'll tell you in simple terms. I'm salty about the way things went down.
Okay, let's back up a second.
Nadia is giving bitch energy. She's a fuck around and find out kind of girl. We love that.
Kace. I didn't think he would be my jam, but I would do anything that man told me to do and say thank you after.
Lucien. Fucking Lucien. He's full on crazy and I was like, "I like me some crazy." If he doesn't get his shit together in the next book, I'm going to lose it.
Now that we have the key heartbreakers in the review, let's continue.
Nadia fucks with Kace because well she wants him to take her to pound town. He's an inmate at the prison she works for, and she literally can not take the D unless she wants to spend a few years also behind bars.
Does that stop them?
Fuck no it doesn't.
(They have the best "FUCK IT" moment)
The spice between these two was 🥵🥵🥵. There are no words. Kace has a mouth on him and knows all the right things to say.
Then walks in this dude named Lucien. (Side note he's kind of a stalker😉) Now Lucien is completely pshyco. Lucien also claims our little officer as his.
In the end, some shit goes down. I went through all the stages of anger and grief in the last 15% of the book and I'm still not over it.
READ THE TRIGGERS. 📣 I am a dark romance girl, and some things that happened in this book made me pause and be like holy hell. When Alair says, take a break, take the flipping break! When she warns you about a certain chapter in the book and how it has a special warning just for that chapter? Take the time to think about it before you're like, oh well. Some fucked up shit happens.
Just read it. Trust me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
Omg I don’t think I have words to describe this book. That ending had my heart racing. If you want suspenseful, dark, bloody and hot this is definitely for you. But pay attention to the triggers be safe reading. This does have some dark scenes. Your mental state is very important to the author.
May 14, 2025
Usually I take time to read books like these, however this one put me in a chokehold and wouldn't let go until I was sobbing at midnight and wondering what the fuck that ending was.
Before I continue my review, remember to check your TW, your mental health matters and this shit is wild from beginning to end.
Nadia and Kace, chef kiss for the relationship build. Their entire interaction was built without it being forced writing. Dark, depraved and fucked up in all the ways you can imagine.
Sweet, sweet Lucien.... Cannot even say homie needs Jesus... Maybe some heavy ass therapy? Who the fuck knows.
That cliff hanger tho is going to haunt me until I get a hold of Judas.
Before I continue my review, remember to check your TW, your mental health matters and this shit is wild from beginning to end.
Nadia and Kace, chef kiss for the relationship build. Their entire interaction was built without it being forced writing. Dark, depraved and fucked up in all the ways you can imagine.
Sweet, sweet Lucien.... Cannot even say homie needs Jesus... Maybe some heavy ass therapy? Who the fuck knows.
That cliff hanger tho is going to haunt me until I get a hold of Judas.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2025
3.25⭐️
Took me a while to get into it, and I didn’t until about 58%. I’ve read a few dark prison stories (and if you follow me I read a lot of pitch/dark/horror books etc.), the premise of this one is good, it just lacked deliverance and when it did deliver it was literally only a couple of chapters.
The story starts with a female prison officer, Nadia. We are led through parts of her present life within the prison, her bullying tactics with one particular inmate Kace and their subsequent spicy/love relationship, he comes across as a bit of a golden retriever, then gets put in seg and it’s intimated his darkness comes out…for me it really didn’t, Nadia, had more fortitude in her little finger 🤷🏻♀️ We are privy to flashbacks of her life and also Kace’s. Next enters Lucien, whose past has moulded him into well, something else entirely and we get his childhood flashbacks too. So, we go from two POVs to three and it just gets considerably worse for Nadia and Kace.
There are dark parts, some parts may be pitch for you so if you do read it, remember the trigger warnings are there to read. I didn’t find it all that pitch dark but that’s just me, it also seemed like a lot of tropes were thrown in, S/A, abuse, bullying, D/s relationship in a fashion, religion, pregnancy, revenge, the old no love/left parent, schizophrenia, etc, etc. I didn’t feel connected to any of the characters and I usually love me a villain 😈 Also like others have said it needs proofreading but if they don’t bother you, I’m sure you will enjoy it.
Took me a while to get into it, and I didn’t until about 58%. I’ve read a few dark prison stories (and if you follow me I read a lot of pitch/dark/horror books etc.), the premise of this one is good, it just lacked deliverance and when it did deliver it was literally only a couple of chapters.
The story starts with a female prison officer, Nadia. We are led through parts of her present life within the prison, her bullying tactics with one particular inmate Kace and their subsequent spicy/love relationship, he comes across as a bit of a golden retriever, then gets put in seg and it’s intimated his darkness comes out…for me it really didn’t, Nadia, had more fortitude in her little finger 🤷🏻♀️ We are privy to flashbacks of her life and also Kace’s. Next enters Lucien, whose past has moulded him into well, something else entirely and we get his childhood flashbacks too. So, we go from two POVs to three and it just gets considerably worse for Nadia and Kace.
There are dark parts, some parts may be pitch for you so if you do read it, remember the trigger warnings are there to read. I didn’t find it all that pitch dark but that’s just me, it also seemed like a lot of tropes were thrown in, S/A, abuse, bullying, D/s relationship in a fashion, religion, pregnancy, revenge, the old no love/left parent, schizophrenia, etc, etc. I didn’t feel connected to any of the characters and I usually love me a villain 😈 Also like others have said it needs proofreading but if they don’t bother you, I’m sure you will enjoy it.
March 31, 2025
UPDATED REVIEW: Happy release day!
“I am her prisoner, in body and heart.”
I’ve still struggled to find words to write my review of this book because it made me feel every damn thing. I mean this is a hell of a debut. In fact, I really haven’t stopped thinking about it as a result. Like I may have finished the book but I’m pretty sure it finished me.
This story has a way of immersing you in Babalon & feeling like you’re there right along the characters with how spectacular Alair’s ability to write a story is. It also has you loving the characters as much as you might hate them because, you guessed it, they’re all flawed human beings! But the love outweighs the despise (except for maybe you Lucien 😡)
Anyway, & I do not say this lightly, CHECK YOUR DAMN TRIGGER WARNINGS. This is a dark romance. It’s a dark prison romance. There is no HEA. It will test you and challenge you in ways that may have you questioning whether to continue. I thought I was ready when I went into it, I was not. But despite that, this is likely one of my top reads for the year.
I need a stiff drink. Make it a double.
And I don’t even like whiskey.
I might come back to write a full review. But for now I’m going to wallow in heartache.
“I am her prisoner, in body and heart.”
I’ve still struggled to find words to write my review of this book because it made me feel every damn thing. I mean this is a hell of a debut. In fact, I really haven’t stopped thinking about it as a result. Like I may have finished the book but I’m pretty sure it finished me.
This story has a way of immersing you in Babalon & feeling like you’re there right along the characters with how spectacular Alair’s ability to write a story is. It also has you loving the characters as much as you might hate them because, you guessed it, they’re all flawed human beings! But the love outweighs the despise (except for maybe you Lucien 😡)
Anyway, & I do not say this lightly, CHECK YOUR DAMN TRIGGER WARNINGS. This is a dark romance. It’s a dark prison romance. There is no HEA. It will test you and challenge you in ways that may have you questioning whether to continue. I thought I was ready when I went into it, I was not. But despite that, this is likely one of my top reads for the year.
I need a stiff drink. Make it a double.
And I don’t even like whiskey.
I might come back to write a full review. But for now I’m going to wallow in heartache.
February 26, 2025
I feel like I have been drug through the pits of hell chained up and then had my heart ripped out spat on kicked and shoved back into my body I was then humiliated, beaten, mentally distraught, and bared severe emotional damage. Would I read it again? yes. Would I still cry? Yes. Would I still feel the same pain and brokenness I feel now? yes. Do I still love this book? Yes. Overall I was IN Babalon, Alair's overall extreme talent is insane I didn't think it could wreck me as hard as it wrecked me, but it did. I feel like Kace now owns a very deep part of my heart so much so I am writing this while still in tears and fighting for air. I want to personally deliver the most unholy GOD DAMN -purposely said for Lucien- warth on Lucien with my bare hands 🤭. Matias once said “Asi es como los villanos se forman.” and damn straight if I didn't just become one myself. Regardless read this knowing if you want to or not you will cry, a part of you will shatter, so please please read knowing that and make sure be aware of all the triggers. I'm so grateful I got the chance to read this arc even if it killed a part of my heart a little 🥲. Shout out to Alair because I know the author's go through the emotions just like us, and you have earned oh so much of my respect, love, and slight SLIGHT hate (it will pass just bare with us)-yes "us" because I believe I am going a little cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs myself after this-☺️ I need Judas in my hands like right now even though it'll probably break me again I know I'll love it regardless
December 23, 2025
This book was an absolute MASTERPIECE! The dynamic between Nadia and Kace is next level! The love to hate to love you, mixed with Kace's witty comments and attitude, despite the situation he finds himself in is chefskiss! Throwing in Lucien, who I personally still am ready to throw the book at, makes for a story that leaves you at the edge of your seat. Were there scenes that were rough, absolutely! That's why we have the trigger warnings and read responsibly. I laughed, I cried, I screamed "wtf" more times than I care to count, and at the end of it, I ate ice cream, then I fully admit to curling up with my stuffed bear, in the fetal position, and staring at my bookself for 20 minutes with tears coming down for no reason other than this book put me through the MOST! Well done for your first book Alair! I can't wait for the next one!
December 16, 2025
Destroyed. Decimated. Annihilated.
It has been years, over a decade since a book sent me this far. I am shattered in the most literal sense. I almost threw my Kindle through the window. No exaggerations.
Reading this book felt deliciously sinful. If you adore the twisted, the dark and latch onto the tiniest bits of warmth and humanity because you think it's going to save you, then my god, get this book. You will be delighted and destroyed.
It was so good and pleasured the darkest parts of my twisted brain in ways I cannot describe. This story was heroin, the plot was addictive and the characters were masterfully crafted to the point of art.
I will now and forever pledge my undying allegiance to Alair. Thank you for the honor, it's been an immeasurable pleasure.
It has been years, over a decade since a book sent me this far. I am shattered in the most literal sense. I almost threw my Kindle through the window. No exaggerations.
Reading this book felt deliciously sinful. If you adore the twisted, the dark and latch onto the tiniest bits of warmth and humanity because you think it's going to save you, then my god, get this book. You will be delighted and destroyed.
It was so good and pleasured the darkest parts of my twisted brain in ways I cannot describe. This story was heroin, the plot was addictive and the characters were masterfully crafted to the point of art.
I will now and forever pledge my undying allegiance to Alair. Thank you for the honor, it's been an immeasurable pleasure.
May 6, 2025
dnf 57% aprox
Es uno de los libros más aburridos que e leído nunca, por no hablar del "romance" y "plot"(la historia de los personajes) los cuales ninguno a tenido sentido, por no hablar de que son personas de 38 y 27 años y si no lo mencionarán al principio son literalmente chicos de 17 años y de milagro.
Y otra cosa serían los traumas, todos tienen traumas pero solo cuando les convienen, en especial ella, que tiene un trauma con los hombres, abusos etc.... pero lo primero que hace es abusar a alguien de la misma manera???
Sigo sin entender como todavía no hay autores que en vez de hacer a sus protagonistas gilip0llas, les mandan psicólogo.
No lo pienso terminar y dudo leer más de la autora
Es uno de los libros más aburridos que e leído nunca, por no hablar del "romance" y "plot"(la historia de los personajes) los cuales ninguno a tenido sentido, por no hablar de que son personas de 38 y 27 años y si no lo mencionarán al principio son literalmente chicos de 17 años y de milagro.
Y otra cosa serían los traumas, todos tienen traumas pero solo cuando les convienen, en especial ella, que tiene un trauma con los hombres, abusos etc.... pero lo primero que hace es abusar a alguien de la misma manera???
Sigo sin entender como todavía no hay autores que en vez de hacer a sus protagonistas gilip0llas, les mandan psicólogo.
No lo pienso terminar y dudo leer más de la autora
March 31, 2025
Two words… PITCH. BLACK. Wowww. This was unique, traumatic, DARK, disturbing but also so many laugh out loud one liners! Lucien… This character crawls right under your skin. What a psychotic portrayal of reverence and obsession. HIGHLY recommend!!
“I was her prisoner, in body and in heart.”
“I was her prisoner, in body and in heart.”
March 31, 2025
Babalon was an absolutely phenomenal read that I could not put down!! The plot had me hooked right from the beginning and as it went on, I was only pulled in further and on the edge of my seat with the twists & turns. I loved the three main characters, even if loving Lucien makes me crazy 😜 The plot, build up, spice, climax, and ending all were amazingly written, just like the characters and their development 🖤
I adored Nadia and her strength. She had a really tough life, but she came out of it so strong ❤️ Working in a prison, I’m sure she never expected to (literally) run into someone like Kace, who completely changed her world. While their relationship started off a bit bumpy, the underlying feelings that were there took over and ran wild. Watching her character develop, her personality and thoughts begin to shift, and not to mention her relationship form with Kace, was all so, so, so, great to read! 🖤
Kace was so sweet, but also so protective, dominating, and controlling in the best ways 🔥 His thoughts from first meeting Nadia were swoon worthy, and his feelings only grew stronger the more time they spent together. Which, was a lot since she was determined to make his life hell! That never deterred him or made his feelings change however, if anything she only fueled them. When they finally got together oh man, i was sweating… he has quite the mouth on him 🥵 I loved the way his character developed and how his thoughts and wants in life evolved. At the end of the day, he did want more, and he wanted it all with Nadia 🖤
Listen… If it makes me delusional or crazy that I loved Lucien - so be it! His backstory and upbringing really had a strong influence on the person he became, and it was also very sad. He was such a different character with a unique personality that was very well written ❤️ He has his own motives for acting the way he does, following his inner voice…s 🫢 While totally ruthless, he does have a protective side and his limits and lines he draws, which come out numerous times throughout the story. I also have to admit that there were several times that he made me giggle 🖤 He has an air of mystery to him and there are lots of questions I have about him that I am dying to have answered!!
Everything about this book was a solid 5 stars for me, and I ate it up! The plot was so gripping and you really got to know each of the characters and their backstories, and also see them develop on their own, and with each other. The build up and tension between the characters was amazing, and the spice was extremely spicy and delicious 🔥 The lead up to the final climax, and the climax itself had me flipping the pages like mad!! My jaw was on the floor by the end and I’m not sure it’s picked up yet. I am dying for book two to come out so I can devour it ❤️
🖤 This book was very, very, dark and even pitch-black at times, so really be sure to check your triggers 🖤
I adored Nadia and her strength. She had a really tough life, but she came out of it so strong ❤️ Working in a prison, I’m sure she never expected to (literally) run into someone like Kace, who completely changed her world. While their relationship started off a bit bumpy, the underlying feelings that were there took over and ran wild. Watching her character develop, her personality and thoughts begin to shift, and not to mention her relationship form with Kace, was all so, so, so, great to read! 🖤
Kace was so sweet, but also so protective, dominating, and controlling in the best ways 🔥 His thoughts from first meeting Nadia were swoon worthy, and his feelings only grew stronger the more time they spent together. Which, was a lot since she was determined to make his life hell! That never deterred him or made his feelings change however, if anything she only fueled them. When they finally got together oh man, i was sweating… he has quite the mouth on him 🥵 I loved the way his character developed and how his thoughts and wants in life evolved. At the end of the day, he did want more, and he wanted it all with Nadia 🖤
Listen… If it makes me delusional or crazy that I loved Lucien - so be it! His backstory and upbringing really had a strong influence on the person he became, and it was also very sad. He was such a different character with a unique personality that was very well written ❤️ He has his own motives for acting the way he does, following his inner voice…s 🫢 While totally ruthless, he does have a protective side and his limits and lines he draws, which come out numerous times throughout the story. I also have to admit that there were several times that he made me giggle 🖤 He has an air of mystery to him and there are lots of questions I have about him that I am dying to have answered!!
Everything about this book was a solid 5 stars for me, and I ate it up! The plot was so gripping and you really got to know each of the characters and their backstories, and also see them develop on their own, and with each other. The build up and tension between the characters was amazing, and the spice was extremely spicy and delicious 🔥 The lead up to the final climax, and the climax itself had me flipping the pages like mad!! My jaw was on the floor by the end and I’m not sure it’s picked up yet. I am dying for book two to come out so I can devour it ❤️
🖤 This book was very, very, dark and even pitch-black at times, so really be sure to check your triggers 🖤
March 27, 2025
**I'd thank Alair Novak for the ARC but I'm pretty sure I have now enter a rabbit hole of emotions where there's no turning back. We shall drink to that!**
I am not ok!
I am so not ok!
“Babalon” was in every way a surprise especially for a debut novel. It is one of the few novels I’ve read this year so far that ripped my heart and made me sceptic of that ending! Miss Novak, I don’t believe you! Which I’m in for a ride because if indeed the events of the first book were indeed real, I think I’ll start drinking!
“Babalon” is a wild journey through so many emotions. Nadia and her broken family, her path to become a prison guard and the way she establishes herself there. Kace did one mistake, one mistake that cost the life of the daughter of someone really important and he ended up in prison constantly being beaten. And then we have Lucien. Lucien is completely batsh!t crazy. As soon as he appears in the narrative, I smirked because I immediately knew he was there to f*ck everything up!
These three characters are not what you’d think of a dark romance. Nadia and Kace have a lot of interactions and Kace is the second person to be kind to her. He sees through her shield and he is the one that allows herself to become vulnerable. While Kace was there because of a mistake, Lucien belongs in prison. He is completely pitch black and a psychopath. While Kace enjoys Nadia for herself, because he sees her and he understands her, Lucien wants to take ownership of Nadia. Hence, “Babalon” is not a MFM nor MMF, since both Kace and Lucien really never share Nadia. They both have their own needs and wants and end up dragging her along.
I can see a lot of readers rooting more for Kace since he is more of a typical morally grey character. He wants to do good, but still that mistake cost him a lot. Even in prison, he wants to do well for others, help others, and save Nadia. He wants to be the first one in her life who can love her and comprehend her. He senses that Nadia wasn’t loved and while he can be tough in prison, he can also be kind and give her something she never had - loyalty and love.
Lucien, on the other hand, brings a darkness to the plot. He is havoc, he is a true fanatic, and his chapters are insane. He wants Nadia to be only his and punish those who touch her, or even punish Nadia to make her break. While Kace wanted to be her saviour, Lucien wants to be her executioner if need be. His appearance switched the plot to something a lot more sinister.
“Babalon” is just the first book of the duet, but it is impressive how Nadia grows throughout the novel and how she survives a world where there’s a lot of evil and bad things happening. She makes the best with what she can even though the universe is not kind to her, but I hope in the second book “Judas” she can have the HEA she deserves.
I am not ok!
I am so not ok!
“Babalon” was in every way a surprise especially for a debut novel. It is one of the few novels I’ve read this year so far that ripped my heart and made me sceptic of that ending! Miss Novak, I don’t believe you! Which I’m in for a ride because if indeed the events of the first book were indeed real, I think I’ll start drinking!
“Babalon” is a wild journey through so many emotions. Nadia and her broken family, her path to become a prison guard and the way she establishes herself there. Kace did one mistake, one mistake that cost the life of the daughter of someone really important and he ended up in prison constantly being beaten. And then we have Lucien. Lucien is completely batsh!t crazy. As soon as he appears in the narrative, I smirked because I immediately knew he was there to f*ck everything up!
These three characters are not what you’d think of a dark romance. Nadia and Kace have a lot of interactions and Kace is the second person to be kind to her. He sees through her shield and he is the one that allows herself to become vulnerable. While Kace was there because of a mistake, Lucien belongs in prison. He is completely pitch black and a psychopath. While Kace enjoys Nadia for herself, because he sees her and he understands her, Lucien wants to take ownership of Nadia. Hence, “Babalon” is not a MFM nor MMF, since both Kace and Lucien really never share Nadia. They both have their own needs and wants and end up dragging her along.
I can see a lot of readers rooting more for Kace since he is more of a typical morally grey character. He wants to do good, but still that mistake cost him a lot. Even in prison, he wants to do well for others, help others, and save Nadia. He wants to be the first one in her life who can love her and comprehend her. He senses that Nadia wasn’t loved and while he can be tough in prison, he can also be kind and give her something she never had - loyalty and love.
Lucien, on the other hand, brings a darkness to the plot. He is havoc, he is a true fanatic, and his chapters are insane. He wants Nadia to be only his and punish those who touch her, or even punish Nadia to make her break. While Kace wanted to be her saviour, Lucien wants to be her executioner if need be. His appearance switched the plot to something a lot more sinister.
“Babalon” is just the first book of the duet, but it is impressive how Nadia grows throughout the novel and how she survives a world where there’s a lot of evil and bad things happening. She makes the best with what she can even though the universe is not kind to her, but I hope in the second book “Judas” she can have the HEA she deserves.
August 19, 2025
⛓️Babalon by Alair Novak⛓️
“I knew this dance. Remain still, let her throw me against the wall….or floor….cuff me and drag me around. Just like a chained dog learning to walk on a leash. Come here, baby girl, I’ll bark. Woof-woof.”
“I was only partially aware of what was going on, but whoever just slapped me, their mums a Ho.”
Babalon is phenomenal. Do I need to say more? You have taboo, inmate x guard, forbidden romance, a sprinkle of enemies to lovers and not a happy ending (psst it was a cliffhanger).
I'm sitting here and I don't know how to process, that ending has me needing to jump into book two immediately its not even funny, I loved this book. The character development, plot, pace everything about this was so amazing and fairly unique compared to other books that I've read, Nadia our FMC was dealt a shitty hand in life from childhood through and when she finally finds someone its entirely the person she should not fall for but does anyway. Kace, oh sweet Kace, he is one of the male MMC character and my god is he adorable. The spice that these two have, the slow build of the relationship hits different and I love every minute of it!
Lucian….where do I go with this deranged psychopath who is obsessed with god and believes he is speaking to him. Um yeah look that's probably enough said and I am actually super invested is seeing where his character ends up in book two.
As always my lovely humans, read your triggers thoroughly and protect your mental health. Please know there is a section that Alair has written a warning, please read this completely to make an educated decision.
Tropes:
Forbidden Romance
Inmate x Guard
Religious Themes
Psychopath
Touch him/her and 💀
Dub/non-con
Blood play
Blood/Gore
Obsession
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/out of 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/out of 5
“I knew this dance. Remain still, let her throw me against the wall….or floor….cuff me and drag me around. Just like a chained dog learning to walk on a leash. Come here, baby girl, I’ll bark. Woof-woof.”
“I was only partially aware of what was going on, but whoever just slapped me, their mums a Ho.”
Babalon is phenomenal. Do I need to say more? You have taboo, inmate x guard, forbidden romance, a sprinkle of enemies to lovers and not a happy ending (psst it was a cliffhanger).
I'm sitting here and I don't know how to process, that ending has me needing to jump into book two immediately its not even funny, I loved this book. The character development, plot, pace everything about this was so amazing and fairly unique compared to other books that I've read, Nadia our FMC was dealt a shitty hand in life from childhood through and when she finally finds someone its entirely the person she should not fall for but does anyway. Kace, oh sweet Kace, he is one of the male MMC character and my god is he adorable. The spice that these two have, the slow build of the relationship hits different and I love every minute of it!
Lucian….where do I go with this deranged psychopath who is obsessed with god and believes he is speaking to him. Um yeah look that's probably enough said and I am actually super invested is seeing where his character ends up in book two.
As always my lovely humans, read your triggers thoroughly and protect your mental health. Please know there is a section that Alair has written a warning, please read this completely to make an educated decision.
Tropes:
Forbidden Romance
Inmate x Guard
Religious Themes
Psychopath
Touch him/her and 💀
Dub/non-con
Blood play
Blood/Gore
Obsession
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/out of 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/out of 5
April 2, 2025
Alair Novak's debut novel, “Babalon” just dropped, and...holy. Fucking. Shit!! I don’t know what I thought I was getting into with this book but it sure the hell was not this! I went in thinking Dark prison romance and came out an emotional wreck. Forgive me Lucien, but Gawd damn.
First off, forget what you think this book is about. This ain't your typical why-choose situation, which is what I thought I was gonna be getting and I was so wrong. Alair was wild with the twists she threw at us. You have Nadia, who you'll love to hate and hate to love; Kace, who's just...solid gold; and Lucien…well Fuck, Lucien is a whole other level of messed up.
The plot? Well, no spoilers here. You’re gonna have to read the book if you know what happens. I’ll just say you have Nadia who’s a guard in a max security prison where she gets entangled in some very intense and messed up situations, both personal and professional. There's power plays, secrets, and a whole lot of emotional manipulation.
Now let’s talk about the last hour and a half of this book? I was a goddamn mess. Literally the WHOLE last hour and half of this book had me sobbing like a baby. Alair Novak, you absolute monster! I was not prepared for the emotional gut-punch you delivered. Like, WTF?! I need book two like I need air. The twists, the heartbreak, the sheer intensity of it all...it's just...wow.
If you're looking for a dark, gritty, and emotionally devastating read, Babalon is where it’s at. Just be prepared to cry. A lot. And maybe throw your book across the room in frustration. And warning, read your triggers before jumping into this one! 😭🔥🖤
First off, forget what you think this book is about. This ain't your typical why-choose situation, which is what I thought I was gonna be getting and I was so wrong. Alair was wild with the twists she threw at us. You have Nadia, who you'll love to hate and hate to love; Kace, who's just...solid gold; and Lucien…well Fuck, Lucien is a whole other level of messed up.
The plot? Well, no spoilers here. You’re gonna have to read the book if you know what happens. I’ll just say you have Nadia who’s a guard in a max security prison where she gets entangled in some very intense and messed up situations, both personal and professional. There's power plays, secrets, and a whole lot of emotional manipulation.
Now let’s talk about the last hour and a half of this book? I was a goddamn mess. Literally the WHOLE last hour and half of this book had me sobbing like a baby. Alair Novak, you absolute monster! I was not prepared for the emotional gut-punch you delivered. Like, WTF?! I need book two like I need air. The twists, the heartbreak, the sheer intensity of it all...it's just...wow.
If you're looking for a dark, gritty, and emotionally devastating read, Babalon is where it’s at. Just be prepared to cry. A lot. And maybe throw your book across the room in frustration. And warning, read your triggers before jumping into this one! 😭🔥🖤
April 10, 2025
This book was well put together! The author did an amazing job with this. This has some morally grey, but it's mostly black! Please read all trigger warnings! There is another set of trigger warnings, further in the book.
I can't wait to see what books this author comes out with next. This was so good. This does not have a happy ending. But this has some love. Spice. Action. With some Crazy mixed in..
I felt like i was in prison with Nadia. Alair definitely did her research! My dad was a correction officer, and this allowed me to dive in and see a different perspective. The relationship between Nadia and Kace was so raw and real. The last couple of chapters had me balling! I've never cried so much over a character in my life. I don't want to say too much and give anything away.
I wanted to follow in my dad's steps so bad as a kid, and after reading this book, I'm so glad I didn't. I probably would have ended up like Nadia! In chapter 31, the author put in another trigger warning and gave you the opportunity to skip that chapter. She made sure that it didn't interfere with the plot, so survivors could skip if it was too much. At the end of the chapter, the author told you to take a break. Get so water coffee whatever. She also added a qrcode that sent you over to a playlist.. this story was so well thought out and put together I can't wait for book two ! Lucien is a psychopath! I need more. To know that he escaped after all of that chaos at the end. He is going to get his karma soon, and I can't wait to see Nadia come to the rescue! I'm still heartbroken over kace!
My favorite quotes/memories of this book:
💜 Imprisoned criminals are still criminals. They don’t stop because you slap them on the back of the hand. In fact, they can become worse. They develop hatred, malice, and a thirst for pain in some instances. They’re animals. Everyone deserves their karma,
💙 “Kace Patton, vehicular manslaughter.” “Matias Ayala, capital murder.”
I can’t sabotage him, he sees me. Sees how damaged and unforgivable I can be and still hasn’t made the choice to hurt me and leave me to rot.
being read like the last book he would ever lay eyes on; his fingers caressing every page till they reached the end.
She was cunning, vicious, and so damn beautiful.
I can't wait to see what books this author comes out with next. This was so good. This does not have a happy ending. But this has some love. Spice. Action. With some Crazy mixed in..
I felt like i was in prison with Nadia. Alair definitely did her research! My dad was a correction officer, and this allowed me to dive in and see a different perspective. The relationship between Nadia and Kace was so raw and real. The last couple of chapters had me balling! I've never cried so much over a character in my life. I don't want to say too much and give anything away.
I wanted to follow in my dad's steps so bad as a kid, and after reading this book, I'm so glad I didn't. I probably would have ended up like Nadia! In chapter 31, the author put in another trigger warning and gave you the opportunity to skip that chapter. She made sure that it didn't interfere with the plot, so survivors could skip if it was too much. At the end of the chapter, the author told you to take a break. Get so water coffee whatever. She also added a qrcode that sent you over to a playlist.. this story was so well thought out and put together I can't wait for book two ! Lucien is a psychopath! I need more. To know that he escaped after all of that chaos at the end. He is going to get his karma soon, and I can't wait to see Nadia come to the rescue! I'm still heartbroken over kace!
My favorite quotes/memories of this book:
💜 Imprisoned criminals are still criminals. They don’t stop because you slap them on the back of the hand. In fact, they can become worse. They develop hatred, malice, and a thirst for pain in some instances. They’re animals. Everyone deserves their karma,
💙 “Kace Patton, vehicular manslaughter.” “Matias Ayala, capital murder.”
I can’t sabotage him, he sees me. Sees how damaged and unforgivable I can be and still hasn’t made the choice to hurt me and leave me to rot.
being read like the last book he would ever lay eyes on; his fingers caressing every page till they reached the end.
She was cunning, vicious, and so damn beautiful.
March 2, 2025
This book screams dark, obsessive, and unhinged romance that only heightens the tension. The three POVs— a ruthless female guard, an inmate who’s had to fight to survive, and a stalker with an unhealthy fixation— create a volatile mix that promises intense drama, twisted mind games, and dangerous power plays.
Nadia, a hard-edged prison guard, isn’t your typical heroine—she’s cruel, playing games with an inmate’s life for her own amusement. Kace, the inmate, isn’t just another bad boy; he’s been dealt an unfair hand, yet he’s managed to carve out a place for himself in a brutal world. And then there’s Lucien, the wildcard—his obsessive love and dark past add another layer of madness to the story. The way he talks about her, as if she belongs to him despite her likely not even knowing who he is, makes him terrifyingly unpredictable.
This setup hints at a toxic, suspenseful romance filled with obsession, power struggles, and moral ambiguity. If you enjoy stories where the lines between love and possession are blurred and where characters are unapologetically flawed, this book will likely keep you on edge from start to finish. Expect a dark, twisted ride with no guarantees of a happy ending—only chaos, obsession, and the possibility of destruction.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest review!
Nadia, a hard-edged prison guard, isn’t your typical heroine—she’s cruel, playing games with an inmate’s life for her own amusement. Kace, the inmate, isn’t just another bad boy; he’s been dealt an unfair hand, yet he’s managed to carve out a place for himself in a brutal world. And then there’s Lucien, the wildcard—his obsessive love and dark past add another layer of madness to the story. The way he talks about her, as if she belongs to him despite her likely not even knowing who he is, makes him terrifyingly unpredictable.
This setup hints at a toxic, suspenseful romance filled with obsession, power struggles, and moral ambiguity. If you enjoy stories where the lines between love and possession are blurred and where characters are unapologetically flawed, this book will likely keep you on edge from start to finish. Expect a dark, twisted ride with no guarantees of a happy ending—only chaos, obsession, and the possibility of destruction.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest review!
March 13, 2025
Ummm what the actual F! Before even reading this book, make sure you look at the trigger warnings!
This is a prison guard/inmate dark romance?? I am literally thoughtless right now, after finishing it lol.
Alright, it started off kind of slow & I was like where is this going…. And well it took off & you are in for a ride!
- Nadia, is a strong woman, who literally has been to hell and back and finally gets some “power” by becoming a correctional officer.
- Kace, literally had bad luck & ended up in prison. (Btw loved him) …
this will contain a spoiler so stop reading from here.
I wish she wasn’t as much as a bitch to him in the beginning & had a little more back thoughts about how she “felt” about him. the “random” act that started their romance, felt sudden bam!
I am so happy kace finally grew a back bone & tried to defend his woman! Even though, he wasn’t a true villain, he was outmatched 😭
Okay noowwww Lucien- WHAT THE ACTUAL EF! I literally got creeped out just by reading about him. I actually got like worried any time he came into the scene & his chapters WtF!!
Overall I really enjoyed this book, it was DARK & some parts I was like ooh my! The storyline was amazing & fucked up haha . I will still give it a 5 star even though my heart was racing at the end of that book!
Okaaayy I need the second one now!
This is a prison guard/inmate dark romance?? I am literally thoughtless right now, after finishing it lol.
Alright, it started off kind of slow & I was like where is this going…. And well it took off & you are in for a ride!
- Nadia, is a strong woman, who literally has been to hell and back and finally gets some “power” by becoming a correctional officer.
- Kace, literally had bad luck & ended up in prison. (Btw loved him) …
this will contain a spoiler so stop reading from here.
I wish she wasn’t as much as a bitch to him in the beginning & had a little more back thoughts about how she “felt” about him. the “random” act that started their romance, felt sudden bam!
I am so happy kace finally grew a back bone & tried to defend his woman! Even though, he wasn’t a true villain, he was outmatched 😭
Okay noowwww Lucien- WHAT THE ACTUAL EF! I literally got creeped out just by reading about him. I actually got like worried any time he came into the scene & his chapters WtF!!
Overall I really enjoyed this book, it was DARK & some parts I was like ooh my! The storyline was amazing & fucked up haha . I will still give it a 5 star even though my heart was racing at the end of that book!
Okaaayy I need the second one now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2025
First off, thank you Alair Novak for selecting me for an ARC!! 🖤 secondly, this is DARK. Please check TW and be kind to your mind!!!
now for my review, This is a dark prisoner x officer romance! The spice was 😮💨😮💨😮💨 definitely what I signed up for! It was written very well and tied into how the FMC felt really & truly so win/win! K&N just ugh 🥰😭 he yearns for her and is ALL IN for her and you feel that to your bones, I loved it 😭 but this story HURT. I definitely HURT. But I still enjoyed it, because someone who hurts and is just dark inside, still deserves love and a chance to be understood (unless you’re Lucien you don’t deserve shit) so all in all, I only can think is WHAT 🫠
I have so many questions and there better be some answers in book 2 or I might LOSE it :,) but I swear I just want Nadia to catch a fucking break, from childhood to adulthood to the lasting events that took place, she’s deserves a break :,) Kace gave her such a nice & very small reprieve that she NEEDED but fucking Lucien happened & about Lucien???? goodness gracious I think death would be too nice for him, but he needs to be eradicated pls & thank you! then Kace, precious sweet dominating Kace…..he better come back pls I need him back PLEASE
now for my review, This is a dark prisoner x officer romance! The spice was 😮💨😮💨😮💨 definitely what I signed up for! It was written very well and tied into how the FMC felt really & truly so win/win! K&N just ugh 🥰😭 he yearns for her and is ALL IN for her and you feel that to your bones, I loved it 😭 but this story HURT. I definitely HURT. But I still enjoyed it, because someone who hurts and is just dark inside, still deserves love and a chance to be understood (unless you’re Lucien you don’t deserve shit) so all in all, I only can think is WHAT 🫠
I have so many questions and there better be some answers in book 2 or I might LOSE it :,) but I swear I just want Nadia to catch a fucking break, from childhood to adulthood to the lasting events that took place, she’s deserves a break :,) Kace gave her such a nice & very small reprieve that she NEEDED but fucking Lucien happened & about Lucien???? goodness gracious I think death would be too nice for him, but he needs to be eradicated pls & thank you! then Kace, precious sweet dominating Kace…..he better come back pls I need him back PLEASE
March 21, 2025
Holy sh!t that was intense! This was so freaking good! It starts out as telling the story of Nadia (a corrections officer), her life, working in a prison and then we get introduced to inmate Kace. These two have an odd relationship that progresses into romance. We get to see a lot of the inner workings of prison life for both the officers and inmates. And then we are introduced to a new psychopathic inmate. It goes from prison romance to psychological thriller. By the end I was crying my eyes out. I’m going to need to take a few days to recover. I will be biting my nails waiting for the second book in this duet. I can’t believe this is a debut book. This was so, so good.
There is dark romance, and then there is this. When I say don’t take the triggers lightly, I mean actually look over the triggers because this is not for the weak. I actually wouldn’t categorize it as a dark romance. I would say it’s a psychological thriller romance slash bordering on horror at times. Damn Alair….. way to knock it out of the park right off the bat. I almost wanted to not finish because I really didn’t like Nadia but she grew on me after the 50% mark or so. And Kace? He may be an inmate but I loved him.
There is dark romance, and then there is this. When I say don’t take the triggers lightly, I mean actually look over the triggers because this is not for the weak. I actually wouldn’t categorize it as a dark romance. I would say it’s a psychological thriller romance slash bordering on horror at times. Damn Alair….. way to knock it out of the park right off the bat. I almost wanted to not finish because I really didn’t like Nadia but she grew on me after the 50% mark or so. And Kace? He may be an inmate but I loved him.
February 28, 2025
ARC Review
Just wow. I was blown away by this story; I feel like I have no words! If I could experience this feeling again, I could die happy.💀🪽
I honestly didn't expect to find so much chemistry between a prison guard and a prisoner, but the spicy moments were just chef's kiss! Who knew you could do so much in a prison on the down low? 😂
The beginning took me a little while to get into, but once the spice started hitting and the buildup intensified, I couldn't put it down. The writing is so easy to read and keeps you engaged throughout the entire book—it's incredibly imaginative.
The last few chapters had me in a chokehold for sure! I wanted to cry, be mad, and feel happy all at once. The ending has me so ready for Judas! I can’t wait to meet Sadie and see how she navigates the drama, just like Nadia. And Kace... I can't even ask that question without starting to ball! 😢 I’m still unsure how I feel about Lucien, but I hope Judas clears some stuff up because my brain is just clouded right now.
This book is definitely for mature audiences, but if you're ready to dive into a wild ride, Babalon is where it's at!
Just wow. I was blown away by this story; I feel like I have no words! If I could experience this feeling again, I could die happy.💀🪽
I honestly didn't expect to find so much chemistry between a prison guard and a prisoner, but the spicy moments were just chef's kiss! Who knew you could do so much in a prison on the down low? 😂
The beginning took me a little while to get into, but once the spice started hitting and the buildup intensified, I couldn't put it down. The writing is so easy to read and keeps you engaged throughout the entire book—it's incredibly imaginative.
The last few chapters had me in a chokehold for sure! I wanted to cry, be mad, and feel happy all at once. The ending has me so ready for Judas! I can’t wait to meet Sadie and see how she navigates the drama, just like Nadia. And Kace... I can't even ask that question without starting to ball! 😢 I’m still unsure how I feel about Lucien, but I hope Judas clears some stuff up because my brain is just clouded right now.
This book is definitely for mature audiences, but if you're ready to dive into a wild ride, Babalon is where it's at!
March 28, 2025
Wow wow wow
This book just left me with my jaw on the floor.
PLEASE read your triggers before going into this book!
This a very dark read set inside Darkwater Correctional, our MCs are Nadia (FMC) Kace (MMC) and later in the book Lucien (MMC). Nadia and Kace have an interesting dynamic, she makes his life hell, until one day, it goes farther and the hell she puts him through turns heated and infatuation and obsession bloom. They don’t have your typical love story but none the less, it’s tragically and beautifully written. Queue in Lucien who comes in already thinking he has a claim on Nadia, ready to take down anyone who comes between him and what’s his, he’s going to shake things up at Darkwater, his obsession with Nadia is dark, stemming from childhood, there are things i need answered immediately about him.
The plot is interesting and keeps your attention. The side characters are well written and the world of Darkwater is written nicely.
I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a dark read, please check your triggers. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared for that.
This book just left me with my jaw on the floor.
PLEASE read your triggers before going into this book!
This a very dark read set inside Darkwater Correctional, our MCs are Nadia (FMC) Kace (MMC) and later in the book Lucien (MMC). Nadia and Kace have an interesting dynamic, she makes his life hell, until one day, it goes farther and the hell she puts him through turns heated and infatuation and obsession bloom. They don’t have your typical love story but none the less, it’s tragically and beautifully written. Queue in Lucien who comes in already thinking he has a claim on Nadia, ready to take down anyone who comes between him and what’s his, he’s going to shake things up at Darkwater, his obsession with Nadia is dark, stemming from childhood, there are things i need answered immediately about him.
The plot is interesting and keeps your attention. The side characters are well written and the world of Darkwater is written nicely.
I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a dark read, please check your triggers. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared for that.
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