Sacrifice: A Dark Romantasy

by Ruby Thorn

A Dark Romantasy of Celestial Fate, Forbidden Desire, and Immortal Betrayal
Eve Areli doesn't believe in fate. But fate has other plans.

It leads her straight into the arms of Lucien Knight—a world- renowned archaeologist with irresistible power, dangerous allure, and a magnetic presence that feels almost... supernatural. Something about him stirs a deep, primal hunger within her. Flashes of forbidden intimacy haunt her—memories that aren’t hers, sensations that scorch through her soul like a past life she can’t remember. And yet, when she looks into Lucien’s eyes, she feels an undeniable pull, as if their destinies are forever intertwined.

Watching her every move is Detective Inspector Michaels, a man as relentless as he is enigmatic. A seraphim bound by ancient oaths to maintain the fragile balance between heaven and hell, Michaels’ warning is stay away from Lucien Knight. He swears Lucien is a deceiver and that Eve has no idea what she’s stepping into.

But what if Michaels is hiding even darker secrets?

With the rare transit of Venus nearing, an ancient celestial alignment promises to unlock a gateway of untold power. Will Lucien use this cosmic event to finally bring them together, or will he sacrifice her to fulfill his own dark, forbidden desires? With demonic forces closing in, time running out, and desire spiralling beyond her control, Eve must decide who to trust—the man who ignites her soul or the one determined to protect her from him.


A darkly seductive, high-stakes romance filled with forbidden longing, celestial intrigue, and a love that could tear the heavens apart. Perfect for fans of steamy paranormal fantasy, dangerous antiheroes, and irresistible, forbidden love.

Genres: Fantasy

370 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2025

Reviews

[Brittany Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC and let me tell you I fell in love so fast! Within the first few pages I was trapped with no way out,I knew this would be a quick read. If you have watch the show Lucifer this kind of gives those same vibes. There's demons, angels, mythology, romance (a little bit spicy.) The plot of the book held my attention and kept me turning the pages to see what was going to happen next. The end left me going "I knew it!" And had me more than excited to see how the next book will turn out!

[vickies_corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waw, I liked this story. A lot.
Without giving the plot away.
I can say. We are in London. Eve, stuck in the shop of British Museum. Something happens to her, with her… She’s being watch, followed by 2 detectives Micheals, Jesper….
These 2 are more than it seems. They hunt demons that pocess humans….
And then Eve bumps into the billionair Lucien…. That relationship is 😮‍💨🖤😮‍💨. The plot is so good. I won’t say more you need to read. Can’t wait for book 2!

[Brenda Graham · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC. This was my first time reading this author and I'm already looking forward to more from her! I thoroughly enjoyed this story, it was well thought out and well written. The story grabs you from the start and doesn't let you go, even at the end. The ending sets up the next book perfectly. I enjoyed the small history lessons within, they really helped to build the story. I particularly loved the different fantasy/mythology character types featured in the story. Describing their particular jobs helped you understand where everyone stood in their world/realm. The only reason I'm giving this 3 instead of 4 stars is because of some errors that distracted me. There are a few times where the MFC or MMC are doing one thing and then a few sentences later, they're doing something else that doesn't make sense with what was written just before. There's also a few spelling errors but that's more an editing issue. I really enjoyed this book and highly suggest it if you like dark fantasy books. Looking forward to the next one!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars – Dark, Divine, and Utterly Addictive

This book is a mesmerizing descent into a world where angels and demons clash in brutal, beautiful chaos. At its core lies the haunting theme of sacrifice—of self, of love, and of humanity itself. The author masterfully weaves celestial lore with gritty emotion, creating a rich, immersive atmosphere that feels both sacred and dangerous.

The characters are flawed, fierce, and unforgettable. Every choice they make comes with a cost, and that tension keeps the pages turning. The prose is lyrical without being overdone, and the pacing strikes a near-perfect balance between action and introspection.

While a few moments could have dug deeper emotionally, the story still lingers long after the final chapter. If you’re drawn to tales of forbidden power, moral gray areas, and epic spiritual warfare, this book will leave you breathless—and craving more.

[Angel Webster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sacrifice

Eve 26 female

Ooh the thamus ripper case

Michaels demon reaver watcher
I believe michael is an angel of sorts

Dr Lucin knight is a reaver who kills people. And something else but i cant spoil that

Lucin spared one victim and she doesnt even know it. Michaels is desperately trying to figure out why.

Madam laveau side character

Eve feels pulled toward lucin. I feel like shes the sacrifice. Michaels warns her to be careful with lucin but hes got her so ensnared she doesnt noticed whats happening.

Oh somethings about to go down! All the upper fae and shadow guardians are meeting!
I love how it involves history and gods/godesses mostly speaks and the goddess venus.

Oh. This is getting good!
I didnt see that coming!

[Madison Shepherd · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did like the story; however, there were moments in the book/story itself that I had a REALLY tough time keeping together. I'm not sure what it was, whether it's because it's an ARC read and not fully edited; or me just not grasping interest in the book as much as I normally do; it was really hard to get through. If I were to recommend it to others, I'd let them know that it's got some weird crazy mix between Egyptology, Mythology, and Angels/Demons that I just couldn't quite grasp from the start all the way to the end. Be prepared if you're interested in reading it, definitely not my first choice in books but it wasn't necessarily a bad read for me. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[the.horror.girl.27 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy of this book by Ruby Thorn and enjoyed this book even though it’s not typically what I read. Described as a dark romantasy, it had an element of the past that I enjoyed and I love the dybbuk spirits possession parts of it. The story of the characters being from a different time but currently living in the mortal world was an interesting part and each character was introduced and described perfectly. This is book one of a series called The Venus Chronicles, ended on a bit of a cliffhanger and i am looking forward to reading the second book.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a MUST Read!!!! It has angels, demons, goods and magic. If you like spice…. You are in for a treat with certain scenes through the story. You find yourself routing for select characters. At the same time you have feelings that are telling you something is not quite right. The stage has been set perfectly for the story to continue in book two. I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I don’t want to give anything away…. But I’m with Detective Michaels at the end of the first part of the journey.

[Southern Grace Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

While working at the British museum, Eve Areli meets the alluring world renowned archeologist Lucian Knight, and her life is forever changed. Lucian sweeps her off her feet in a whirlwind romance. Eve soon realizes she is being watched closely by Detective Inspector Michaels and things may not be as they appear.


I loved this book! It’s full of angels, demons, spice, and plot twists. I couldn’t put it down, and finished in a day! I would highly recommend for Dark Romantasy lovers!! Im looking forward to seeing where their journey takes them in book two!

[Sara Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review: thank you ruby for allowing me to be a arc reader and thank you for writing such an amazing book. This for me was a short read and all I have to say is I HOPE the next book is longer! This literally had me second guessing and being confused till the end and I am so glad I wasn’t wrong. The writing had me watching a movie in my head 95% of the time and i know it’s a good book when the words disappear and become scenes. I absolutely loved it and will be anticipating the next book because I need more of Michaels!

[Lexi Mcfarland · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was blessed with an ARC. Pretty easy read, 🌶️🌶️. Fae, angels, modern day.

FMC had a glow up from begining to end. Unknown powers, which she then didn’t need training to learn how to use and control. MMC was confusing, most of the book was one guy then there’s another trying to be the MMC. Id say the first 60% was confusing as hell, the last 40% was intriguing.

For the next book, I’m hoping for a why choose. I’m locked in, need to understand the characters more.

[Rhii · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book as an arc…This book jumps right into it and keeps on going…Based out in London Eve is a girl just trying to make it in the world and happens to fall (literally) into a man that will turn her life upside down…Based on angels, demons, fae and gods this book is right up my alley…It’s a great take on mythology…Can’t wait to see where Lucian, Michaels and Eve story goes from here…

[Cheryl Tabor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say, this book got me. First time reading this genera. Lots of twist, the plot unique and energizing. Kept me turning the pages till I finished it. No dull parts, Characters Wow! This book has some spice, but not so much that it over loads the storyline. Leaves you on a cliff hanger. This was an ARC read. So glad the Author allowed me to read her work. Can't wait for book 2.

[Rainbeaux Harvest · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading anything from the author, and I was not disappointed. I enjoy reading horror stories, romantasy isn't something I read. But heck, there are demons, angels, fae's, and paranormal stuff. That alone made it a lot more appealing. Fun read in this genre, ready for the next.

[Alyssa L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!! I almost couldn't put it down. It kept giving Librarians meets fantasy adventure. The story is full of gods, demons, love, spice, and a slight turn of events. Definitely am looking forward to the next and seeing where the adventure goes.

[Catrina Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a thrilling, fast-paced ride filled with action, angels, gods, unexpected powers, and shocking betrayals. I had such a great time reading it and can't wait to see what the author has in store next!

[CMLH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoyed this new to me author. There are twists, just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting, twists to the story that keeps you entertained, and characters are so thrilling. I cannot wait to read more and hope they keep coming.

[Amber Charpentier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an incredible read! The book is so fun and different. It's set in the present but with a ton of fun history ingrained and a magic system I've never seen in a book. If you liked The Mummy, this is the perfect read!

[Vivian Wu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very honored to have received this as an ARC, but unfortunately I did DNF the book about a 1/3 way in. The book just had a hard time gripping my attention for some reason. Maybe it’s a mood thing? I do want to pick it back up in the future. But as of now, it’s going back on the shelf.

[MammaDoughty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good read

I got to read the ARC and loved it. Can't wait to read the next one in the series. Thank you for letting me read this.

[Valerie Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! I couldn’t put it down soon as I read it, so excited for when the next book comes out

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review

[Jennifer Child · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got an ARC, it was an interesting story. I can see this series being really good. Guess I'll have to wait and see what happens in book 2.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC and can't wait for the next one! I enjoyed the mythology used and how the ending has you anticipating some bigger fun!

[Clara Gamb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much for the ARC! This was great I loved that this story was in London! I love the magic elements of this story. I liked Eve as the fmc and I’m still not sure about our billionaire Lucien Knight!

[J.D. Semmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun time! I could not put it down. It kept me on the edge of my seat trying to put together clues. Plus it's a spicy angle/demon love story and she added in the fae! What's not to love?!

[Shannlyn Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great series builder and I NEED book 2! Angels and demons, magic, with romance. The spice was just enough. I’m left rooting/hoping this goes a certain kind of way.

[Danielle Warren · Rating 4 out of 5]

such a great book! this book was hard to put down, let's of twists and turns trying to predict who was good and bad

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this a lot. The historical aspect and writing just superb. Left at a cliffhanger, perfect set up for book 2 which I cannot wait to read!

[Leah Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend!
Drawn in from the very beginning! Love the mix of gods, angels and other creatures. Amazing story and can’t wait to see what happens next!