In Radcliffe, perfection is a mask. And Sinclair Arnoult wears his far too well.
Sin is Radcliffe’s golden boy. Star athlete, top student, and heir to a family name that carries weight in every corner of town. With his easy smiles and effortless charm, he’s untouchable.
Perfect.
Petra Valentine has always been an outsider. Trapped in a world of wealth and privilege that barely tolerates her, she’s spent her life fading into the background—until one reckless night at a party changes everything.
A fleeting, drunken mistake ties her to him.
When a series of ritualistic murders forces them together to unravel Radcliffe's twisted past, Petra discovers that Sin is connected to something far darker than a privileged legacy.
The man everyone worships is hiding dangerous truths—about his past, about the town, and about her.
He swears he’ll protect her. He swears he’d never hurt her.
But in Radcliffe, devotion and destruction look a lot like the same thing.
This is going to become my entire personality when it comes out.
Tropes: (announced on the author's official Instagram.) Dark Academia Golden boy x Black cat (but he's secretly a psycho) Dual Timelines He's a stalker (past & present) Accidental Pregnancy (Not even a spoiler! It happens in the first chapters) Ritualistic Murders, Secret Societies and the Occult
You had me at dark academia and accidental pregnancy 🙂↕️
As someone who has read several other books by Veronica and LOVED them, posted glowing reviews and centered a lot of content on my socials promoting them, Sinister unfortunately missed the mark for me.
I did love some of the easter eggs that were dropped through out the story relating to her other books & worlds. However, I did not connect with the story or the characters and often found myself annoyed with them.
I am someone who loves stories about love transcending lifetimes, it's a particular theme I will always devour. In my personal opinion, Sinister felt like a loose re-write of Fairydale which made the story line as a whole pretty predictable, and the writing itself seemed like a different author.
The last point I want to make is that it is advertised as dark academia. I do think that is slightly misleading as there are only a couple of scenes that take place inside the school. Other than that, it's just that the FMC is still in high school.
Though it was not the book for me, I do think others may still enjoy it.
Synopsis: In Radcliffe, perfection is a mask. And Sinclair Arnoult wears his far too well.
Sin is Radcliffe’s golden boy. Star athlete, top student, and heir to a family name that carries weight in every corner of town. With his easy smiles and effortless charm, he’s untouchable.
Perfect.
Petra Valentine has always been an outsider. Trapped in a world of wealth and privilege that barely tolerates her, she’s spent her life fading into the background—until one reckless night at a party changes everything.
A fleeting, drunken mistake ties her to him.
When a series of ritualistic murders forces them together to unravel Radcliffe's twisted past, Petra discovers that Sin is connected to something far darker than a privileged legacy.
The man everyone worships is hiding dangerous truths—about his past, about the town, and about her.
He swears he’ll protect her. He swears he’d never hurt her.
But in Radcliffe, devotion and destruction look a lot like the same thing.
Review: Wow! I’m so glad I read this throughout the month of October! Unfortunately I didn’t get to finish until early November! This books has all the gothic and paranormal romance vibes! This book was the highlight of October! The romance and mystery had me turning the pages! If life didn’t interrupt me I would have finished it even quicker despite it being I think over 700 pages? It didn’t feel long at all and there was always something that kept me wanting to know what was going to happen! It didn’t drag or bore me! I was rooting for the couple at all times! I still can’t believe it’s over! I wish there would be a sequel! I already miss these characters! I should warn everyone to please read the trigger warnings before picking up this book!
I would like to thank the author herself Veronica Lancet for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance! It is a fall I shall never forget!
If you loved Fairydale, you’ll freaking love Sinister. Same vibes, but completely different story. The angst, the suspense, the multiple timelines, the reincarnation of a love story told through decades and decades of longing and promises to one day, be together.
Petra, always feeling like an outcast, starts a new school where… as usual finds herself being taunted and bullied by the popular kids.. except for one. Sin Arnoult. He’s gorgeous. And strangely nice? One night that included a party, shoved into a pool, some alcohol.. Petra and Sin hook up and Petra ends up pregnant. (Don’t worry - this is not a spoiler as it happens in the very first chapter.)
Some really strange things start happening in this town. Including students being murdered gruesomely. It’s overwhelming for Petra with also finding out that she’s pregnant at 18 - Sin personality seems to be all over the place and Petra just has no idea if she should even tell him that she’s pregnant.
This book is definitely a slow burn. They both are trying to get to know each other, but Sin is always acting strange.
And we have the timeline changes where we go back in time with different characters.
If you like: Reincarnation/ Past Lives Suspense Paranormal Romance It’s Always Been You Secret Societies Stalker and Shadows Forced Proximity
As the story unfolds, I became completely invested on who is who and who did what. I love the plot twists and spooky vibes. I love paranormal romance with reincarnation. It’s such a fantastic story! We also see a character from House of Cryos Trilogy!
Sinester is a mesmerizing journey into darkness, love, and the fine line between pain and desire. From the very first page, Veronica Lancet pulls you into a world where shadows speak louder than words, and every emotion feels raw, vivid, and unforgettable. The atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful — gothic, mysterious, and filled with tension that keeps you turning pages. The characters are complex, morally grey, and achingly human. You feel their struggles, their desires, and their fears as if they were your own.
....give me one kiss, and I'll keep my soul. I won't trade it. I'll keep it safe... for you." He leans in just a little closer. "What do you say, Petra?"
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy: dark, gothic romance 🔥emotionally intense and psychologically rich stories 💗characters who live in the grey areas of morality 😍a mix of mysticism, suspense, and romance.
Thank you very much to the Arc Veronica Lance team.
*Dark academia *Gothic vibes *Stalker MMC Like always, I really enjoyed this book. First, all the tropes are the ones that I love. Second, I love every Veronica's book. Even if I didn't give 5 stars for this one, it's a good story. For the reader of Fairydale, is easiest and the chapters more fluid. Obviously we have a lot plots in here (we're talking about Veronica Lancet) and a couple that will do anything for each other. Sin it's unhinged and obsessed with Petra and obviously it's him that stole the book for me. It's a good story (and standalone too).
Hang onto your hats because this one is a roller coaster of a ride! 🎢
Once again, I could not put this down, just like all of the author’s books, which of course didn’t surprise me. Love the pacing of this. Although it’s hefty in size, it moves, and before I knew it I was at the end. 😅
I was really looking forward to this book. Being a huge fan of Fairydale, I kind of knew what to expect. Except, I was wrong. 🫣 Some things that happened were expected, but boy does it really go off the deep end by the climax. And, in a good, unexpected way.
There are definitely some similarities to Fairydale, but it’s also such a different storyline and setting that it’s hard to really compare. I loved the dark, academia, gothic themes. I don’t want to give away anything, but for me this was more of a mystery, try to figure things out, and a bit less romantic overall. But it does have its swoony moments. Much Darker and if you are fan of the spice 🌶️ you will not be disappointed. More 🥵 than her other fantasy novels. IMO.
It follows multiple timelines, so be prepared for that. And the ending was INTENSE…with a satisfying plot twist payoff. But there were a few other things along the way that had me saying “What?!…..” 👀
If you loved Fairydale or her other books you will love this. If you didn’t love Fairydale or haven’t read that, give this one a try because I think moves faster and is easier to follow. Also, I should note that this is a standalone. 😍
10/10 ⭐️
Thank you so much to Veronica Lancet for providing me with this Advanced Reader Copy for my honest review.
Realistically I need 5-7 business days to recover from a VL book but here we are. As always, V is the queen of a paranormal historical romance. This one was probably the creepiest I’ve read, and I’m not usually a horror girl but my eyes were glued to the pages the entire time.
I inhaled Petra and Sins story, and truthfully, almost 800 pages was not enough! I need more!! I’m just so glad there’s some character overlap between this and House of Cyros. The difference between past and current Sin gave me whiplash but I loved how his differences kept me on my toes. At some points I even second guessed if he was the same person!
I can’t wait for this story to release so everyone can scream, cry, and hide with me as they read this one. Thank you Jade-Marie for listening to all my theories and telling how scared you were with me lol.
Sinister is the perfect way to describe this story! 🌶️🌶️ If you love dark academia, paranormal romance, spooky, mysterious books, this one is absolutely for you. I fell in love with Veronica’s storytelling after reading Fairydale, and Sinister gives the same vibes!
Sin and Petra’s relationship starts off… uncomfy from the very beginning. Sin is a part of one of the oldest and richest families in radcliffe, and is inexplicably drawn to the artsy loner, Petra. While Sin is outwardly sweet and caring, he has moments where it seems like he can’t help the maliciousness he lets slip, and he’ll do anything to keep Petra by his side.
When bodies start to appear, the couple takes it upon themselves to decipher St. Anselm Hall’s dark history and how the past is influencing their present. Petra can’t help but feel like Sin knows more than he lets on, though, and her dreams of the past are starting to feel less like make believe.
I loved this book so much, and I really thought I had this figured out about halfway in but as usual Veronica said “NOPE!” 😂 you’ll love this story be if you’re into:
Trope heaven: Dark Academia Golden boy × Black cat (but he’s secretly a cute psycho) Dual timelines He’s a stalker (past & present) Accidental pregnancy Secret societies Ritualistic murders The occult Paranormal elements
So… did I eat this book in less than 72 hours? Yes. Yes, I did.
“I’m surprised they haven’t asked his favorite color, because he’d probably say Petra.”
That line alone had me grinning, but the real magic of Sinister is how it blends charm, danger, and obsession into one irresistible package. Sin and Petra absolutely stole my heart their chemistry is electric, their moments delicious, and their journey together is messy in the best way.
Veronica Lancet does not hold back. She serves climax after climax, with plot twists I didn’t see coming, mixing cute and tender moments with blood, mystery, and hot hot hot tension. Sin, with his dangerous mystery wrapped in golden-retriever devotion, and Petra, ever curious yet cautious, had me on the edge of my seat.
“Great, Petra, my inner voice adds. He can be a murderer but he can’t be a cheater.”
I laughed, I gasped, and I couldn’t stop turning pages. The secret societies, the paranormal touches, and the dark academia setting made this story utterly addictive. Now I desperately need more books in this universe and more of these unforgettable characters.
Whew, man, that was a roller coaster of a ride. No wonder it was long. With everything that happened here? Yeah, the 770+ pages now definitely make a lot more sense.
I think it’ll be a lot more fun if readers just jump in without any expectations. This story has a lot going on, and you might find some parts a bit confusing at first. But don't worry, everything will click into place once it's all explained in the end. Ngl, I kept questioning everything, but in the end, it turned out to be really good.
If you read and liked "Fairydale" by this author, I think you’ll really enjoy this one as well! It also has the same theme of two lovers who stay devoted to each other, and what I mean by that is that they’re each other’s first and only! Dual V will always have my heart. 🥹 Both are faithful and determined to find one another in every lifetime, whatever it takes. And yes, it takes them centuries to be reunited, but at last they finally find each other, despite their love having gone through so much along the way. ♥️
Anywaaay, I love it and every moment in Petra and Sin's story! 😍 It's definitely worth the read, at least for me. 🤭
I’ll just put a few quotes, the book’s preface, and TW/CW list below. Please check them before reading this.
Some quotes:
"You're the only one who was made for me—and only me. I knew you were out there. I knew I would find you. So I waited. Why would I waste my time on anyone else, when I knew once I found you, I’d finally be happy? That I’d finally belong somewhere?"
"Our hearts… they beat together. Because we were made for each other. You for me, and me for you. That’s how it’s always been. Since the beginning of time."
“Hobbies? Petra. Plans for the future? Petra. I’m surprised they haven’t asked his favorite color, because he’d probably say Petra.”
“Because if it were me instead of him, if I had been the one to survive, I would have done the same. I would have done the same as him to ensure he returns to me, that he remains mine... if the roles were reversed, I would have done exactly the same.”
Preface:
“Warning: This is not your regular romance story.
This is dark and entirely morally ambiguous. The plot will take you to some wild heights, but bear with me, okay?
Confusion is to be expected, but I promise you a fulfilling HAPPY ending (unlike the first draft of this book that was rather… grim, but we don’t talk about that) If you’ve read Fairydale by me, then you know to expect a mindfuck.
Don’t lower your guard, or you might find yourself deceived. That being said, enjoy the wild ride, besties.“
Thank you so much Veronica Lancet for sending me this ARC!
Sinister is a standalone Gothic Romance from one of my favourite authors and omg Veronica once again proved what a genius she is, this book is a masterpiece and I absolutely loved it!
I’m not saying much about the plot because I think it’s best to go in blind, but let me say the plot was really fascinating, complex with everything slowly being unveiled, perfectly paced and keeping you on the edge of your seat. This book is quite long, but it pulls you in so quickly that I didn’t even notice the length and by the end I wished it was even longer, I didn’t want to say goodbye to this captivating story and amazing characters. I loved the vibes, it was perfectly gothic and set in a slightly creepy town with so many secrets, secret society, everyone having hidden agendas and I didn’t know who to trust and who is telling the truth and what is real for most of this story. There are also two (or even 3) timelines and I loved how the author perfectly connected everything and how everything just fit together, I enjoyed what happened in both timelines and was waiting with bated breath to know what happened in the past and what will happen now and how it’s connected, which was revealed in a great way and just at the right time. I also loved the main characters, Petra annoyed me at times, but I also understood perfectly where she was coming from and she was reacting to everything really well, she grew a lot in the course of this book and while we only got her POV, it made so much sense in the end and I ended up really loving her. Sin was such a mystery for most of the book, I didn’t know whether he was the villain or just morally grey obsessed love interest or both, I loved discovering his secrets and just getting to know him, he was incredible and his love for Petra was beautiful. Their relationship was complicated and full of secrets, both in the past and in the present, but they made such an amazing couple, they were perfect for each other and I loved their slow burn romance, their love for each other was beautiful but tragic at times and I just loved these two so much, I hope we will get to see them again.
Sinister is an incredible book that I loved so much, it’s so fascinating with amazing characters and beautiful love story and all the gothic vibes make it a perfect fall read, I can’t recommend it enough. I already can’t wait for Veronica’s next book.
| dark romance | gothic suspense | paranormal romance | fantasy romance | soul mates | reincarnation | past lives | demons | fated mates | historical romance| morally grey | stalker romance | single POV | black cat FMC | mystery | suspense | surprise pregnancy | dark academia | unhinged |
Veronica Lancet never fails to deliver her signature blend of soul mates, unhinged love, and darkly twisted plots. She masterfully crafts decadent love stories infused with rich historical undertones and complex, layered storytelling. Sinister is yet another brilliant example of Veronica’s distinctive voice, style, and storytelling.
Sinister is a dark academia paranormal romance set within an exclusive and prestigious school steeped in legend and shadowed by a dubious past. Readers can expect an intoxicating mix of mystery, suspense, and a love that defies time and mortality itself.
As with many of Veronica’s works, themes of religion and demons play a prominent role. She deftly explores the duality between good and evil, often through religious imagery and the eternal battle against darkness. The town surrounding the school carries its own secrets, with faith and folklore intertwining to form a hauntingly beautiful backdrop. This contrast between light and dark deepens the story’s tension and amplifies the stakes of the romance.
True to her style, Veronica delves into the idea of fated mates and soul-deep connections, a love so consuming even death couldn't stop it. Expect morally grey characters, unhinged passion, and several jaw-dropping twists that will keep you reeling until the final page. This is an especially suspenseful romance that would be perfect for the spooky season.
Longtime fans may also spot a few hidden Easter eggs woven into the narrative, little nods to her other works that make the experience even fuller.
I highly recommend Sinsiter. I highly recommend delving into anything written by Veronica Lancet if you love soul mates, darker themes, and morally grey love interests.
Veronica Lancet 🥹😩 This book was phenomenal, it took me everywhere! The twists and turns and revelations had me on the edge of my seat in every chapter! The absolute yearning and angst between this couple 😩 I could not stop loving them and falling deeper in love every page! The spice and slow burn! Gawd you really edged us 😂 and I love it!! Thank you so much, for this ARC 🥹💜
Sin 🧎♀️I am insanely in love with this man and everything he has done for his woman 🥹 When I tell you, left no stone unturned for her 🥹 When I say I want a man devoted to me, I mean Sin! Tall, mysterious, obsessed, morally black, charming, protective, touch her and die, shy, golden retriever, only been with and looked at one woman 🥹, handsome, supportive, encouraging, loves to banter with her, freaky, filthy mouthed, 😈, will literally do anything for her, loves her unconditionally, will fight anyone, ott 😂, and just..... him 🥹 When I first met Sin, I didn't realise how he will own me and I am so glad he does 💜 I can't get enough of him!
Petra 🧎♀️ I am insanely in awe of this woman and everything she has done 🥹 She kept me on my toes and flipping the pages faster than I could read because I was that engrossed 😈🤭 Brave, intelligent, feisty, shy, quiet, protective, curious, beautiful, obsessed, touch him and die, sunshine, morally questionable 🤭, only been with and looked at one man 🥹 will do anything for him, freaky, encouraging, insanely in love and.. everything 🥹 There are so many facets to this woman and I loved uncovering them with her! Her character is so frickin adorable and I could not stop feeling her emotions.
I absolutely loved both timelines and uncovering its mysteries with them 🥹 There was so much of love, yearning and obsession and it kept my heart 🥹 The side characters have my heart as well, because Omg!!! The writing, suspense, mystery and all the elements have me completely 🥹 Veronica you are a mastermind and one of my favourite authors of all time!
Veronica Lancet fans should know that when you are in one of her universes, any little morsel she gives you is like gold—at least it is for me. And to have a book that is a hearty standalone that finishes in a HEA is a wee bit unusual. I admit I did a double-take and thought it felt bittersweet in some ways, knowing that Sin and Petra’s story ends, but the way Veronica Lancet writes, her characters do continue. With that said, Sinister, which is scheduled to be released in July, is a standalone in the overarching Aperion-Tartaria universe. That means there is a cameo by a character fans will recognize. Trust that it will all make sense as it always does.
Veronica’s storytelling is immaculate, incorporating reincarnation and a past-and-present timeline that she is known for. Always unique and always original. The story spans the present day, the 1800s, and the 1700s. Every detail is exciting; each page pulls the story in deeper, wanting and seeking answers to Petra’s questions as if they were your questions too. And as I mentioned, it is a hefty-sized story, as most of Veronica’s books are; however, there are genuinely no dull moments. She is by far the only romantasy/PNR author that can write this length and have my full attention.
I loved all the historical elements included in the story. The spice was written perfectly. Now the question is, do readers need to read Veronica Lancet’s other books from this universe to enjoy Sinister fully? Not necessarily. I believe readers will go into Sinister and find it enjoyable, with its dark, gothic academia romance, fantasy, and reincarnation elements. I know I would. But I would still highly recommend reading all this author's works, as you will get more out of them. And reading Sinister was well worth it.
Thank you to Veronica Lancet for the gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Tropes: * DARK ACADEMIA * PRESENT DAY & 1890s * PAST LIVES * CREEPY SMALL TOWN * SECRET SOCIETIES * SUSPENSE AND MYSTERY
Another fantastic book by VL, the story is addictive and a real page turner. I loved everything, the pace, the suspense, mystery, and the romance was simply perfect. So many great line to choose from, but one of my favourites was:
…. give me one kiss, and I’ll keep my soul. I won’t trade it. I’ll keep it safe… for you.” He leans in just a little closer. “What do you say, Petra?”
A testament on how good VL writing is, when she creates Sin the MMC dialogue and personality as a teenager and then the same person who acts and talk as an adult. I love VL devoted MMC’s!!!
It was so good to see a cameo from another hero make an appearance from one of her previous books too, and in the end his input if quite essential to the storyline. The final twist I did not see coming, a testimony to the quality of VL writing, no wonder she is one of my favourite authors.
I’ve got so many thoughts I don’t know where to begin. I think that the flashback chapters were seamlessly incorporated into the story and I found them becoming some of my favorites. I did have some trepidation with the MCs being so young and add in an accidental pregnancy, but that was quickly forgotten as the story progressed. The gothic atmosphere and sinister (😈) plot made me unable to put it down. Sin would do anything for Petra and that’s exactly what I want from my mmc. I loved them together. He definitely made some wild decisions, and Petra’s better than me because I would’ve yelled a lot more before forgiving him. Also, get comfortable with a lot of murders.
Tropes: Dark Academia Gothic setting Teen/accidental pregnancy Past lives
For those who have read Fairydale and loved it, then Sinister will absolutely be another five-star read for you.
Dark academia and gothic romances will be a favorite of mine, and this book blends both of these perfectly. AND MIGHT I ADD--A STALKER MMC TOO 👀
Veronica has this way of writing characters who are lovable from the moment you meet them, and plots that are filled with romance, mystery, and suspense that leave you on the edge for more. It's not a VL book without a plot twist, and you will be shooked with the one in this book eheh.
Petra and Sin are my babies and I will forever defend them. 10/10 book for me
Thank you Veronica for the ARC!
TROPES: - Dark academia - Stalker MMC - Dual V's - Reincarnation - SOULMATE VIBES 😩 - Surprise pregnancy
if you loved Fairydale, then Sinister is a must read!
Veronica does such an incredible job writing stories of love that transcends time and I will always devour any book she writes with this kind of plot. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time trying to figure out what was happening and if I could guess the twists (some I did, others I did not). the thriller, cult, and paranormal aspects made this one especially fascinating with figuring who killed all of people in the various timelines throughout the plot. I found myself ignoring responsibilities to read this one.
and oh my god, my jaw dropped when Valerion entered the chat (iykyk). I also loved how while this is a standalone, there are SO many Easter eggs to over VL books.
Veronica Lancet truly never disappoints. Without giving away too much, Sinister is the perfect blend of dark academia and dark romance with paranormal influences! First, please always check the trigger warnings!
But I love Petra and Sin so much, maybe more than Vlad and Sisi (if you’re familiar with Lancet’s other books) which is a crazy statement coming from me!! I love the way Lancet blends historical features into her books with how she ties together different timelines as she seamlessly does in Fairydale as well. Sinister is such an addictive story that I couldn’t put down, and I think I will be reading it again before the official release! If you’re a fan of Keri Lake’s Nocticadia, this is the perfect book that will have you hooked from beginning to end!
So first thing first let’s get something known about me. I despise the pregnancy trope. Like it’s just not my thing and never has been. With that said even though I didn’t like the pregnancy trope I loved everything else about this book. Petra and Sinclair were just amazing. Not wanting to spoil anything but the plot twist was something I saw coming but it still splashed on me. Sinclair is obsessed with Petra ready to protect and save her. The unique thing about Veronica Lancets character is that these are strong FMC characters. Petra was a little more submissive than the women Veronica writes but a spitfire nonetheless. I am excited about part 2
Will be updating this review but, this book was amazing.
Both characters made me feel their feelings, through time and space their love. As usual with Veronica’s books I don’t care where the plot twist takes us because I truly believe the HEA will be worth it. And it was.
I’ll be adding my fav quotes, but like a dumbass I lost the note I had them in, so a reread is in my future (actually very happy about this outcome lmao)
Also, Veronica, you amazing woman, I told you after Fairydale that everyone would see your beautiful work and that they would steal it from your hands. So deserved and I can’t be happier!!
While this book is extremely dark and disturbing, there is also an unique innocence within our main characters that provides the perfect balance to the darkness as they survive it and simultaneously become it. Veronica Lancet has an intoxicating way of writing that always seems to draw me in and Sinister is no exception. Petra and Sin’s story, as so many of the author’s other works, tells a hauntingly beautiful and passionate narrative of two souls whose love is intertwined through so many lives and timelines .
Veronica Lancet does it again! She's just the absolute queen of epic love stories that take place over multiple timelines.
Sinister gives Fairydale vibes in a dark academia setting with a touch of The Cute Psycho unhingedness. Did I finish this almost 800 page book in 2 days? Yes. Yes, I did. Because Veronica knows how to write page turners and I couldn't stop myself.
I don't want to spoil anything, but when we find out who Sin's parents are? TEARS! Elroy and Plum? TEARS!