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University of Isles #1
Into the Darkness
Into the Darkness I'll go
Ember Solis is a sweet girl from a not-so-innocent world.
When it comes time for her to venture out to the real world—to the college of her dreams—Ember is released from the shelter of her home, straight into bad boy and sworn enemy, Ash Ortiz’s addictive spell.
Ash teaches Ember everything he knows but soon, the student becomes the master.
Ember emerges from the depths of her inexperience to discover she is stronger than she seems.
But there is a bigger price to pay for loving Ash, and the way that Ember views her past, her present and her future will never be the same.
She realizes the entire world she once called home is there to drive her and Ash farther apart.
What was once shrouded in light is now rooted in the dark.
Confronted with the most critical decision of her life, Ember must choose between her family and Ash.
But what price will their lives bear as a consequence of her choice?
Ember Solis is a sweet girl from a not-so-innocent world.
When it comes time for her to venture out to the real world—to the college of her dreams—Ember is released from the shelter of her home, straight into bad boy and sworn enemy, Ash Ortiz’s addictive spell.
Ash teaches Ember everything he knows but soon, the student becomes the master.
Ember emerges from the depths of her inexperience to discover she is stronger than she seems.
But there is a bigger price to pay for loving Ash, and the way that Ember views her past, her present and her future will never be the same.
She realizes the entire world she once called home is there to drive her and Ash farther apart.
What was once shrouded in light is now rooted in the dark.
Confronted with the most critical decision of her life, Ember must choose between her family and Ash.
But what price will their lives bear as a consequence of her choice?
Audible Audio
Published April 9, 2024
464 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 516 reviews
August 27, 2025
(Edited to include Audio Review)
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
5/5🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I didn’t know it would be possible for me to cry so soon after reading about an orgy but here I am…
This book was such a roller coaster. My attachment to Ash was so strong and I felt every ounce of his pain and frustrations with the hand he’d been dealt.
Also Ember…girly is LIVING! Get that peen queen! I was so happy that she found herself and the strength that others doubted her having. Ash truly guided her even though he didn’t make the best choices at times, his heart was always in the right place when it came to Ember.
Overall this was a solid read and please read the tropes and prepare yourself with some tissues. I can’t wait for the next book. That cliff hanger was a tough one…
*The Audio for this was AMAZING! It truly added another layer to this story. Vee’s writing mixed with Oscar Reyes and Paige Reisenfelds narration? Top notch! This added another star to my original review.
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
5/5🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
I didn’t know it would be possible for me to cry so soon after reading about an orgy but here I am…
This book was such a roller coaster. My attachment to Ash was so strong and I felt every ounce of his pain and frustrations with the hand he’d been dealt.
Also Ember…girly is LIVING! Get that peen queen! I was so happy that she found herself and the strength that others doubted her having. Ash truly guided her even though he didn’t make the best choices at times, his heart was always in the right place when it came to Ember.
Overall this was a solid read and please read the tropes and prepare yourself with some tissues. I can’t wait for the next book. That cliff hanger was a tough one…
*The Audio for this was AMAZING! It truly added another layer to this story. Vee’s writing mixed with Oscar Reyes and Paige Reisenfelds narration? Top notch! This added another star to my original review.
November 9, 2024
WHAT WAS THAT ENDING? Immediately downloaded book 2.
I enjoyed some parts of this but I have a feeling I'll like book 2 more. 🤞🏻
-dark college
-mafia
-enemies to lovers
-family rivalry
I enjoyed some parts of this but I have a feeling I'll like book 2 more. 🤞🏻
-dark college
-mafia
-enemies to lovers
-family rivalry
February 14, 2024
guys… just wait ‼️😆🥹📖♥️ omg omg omg
had the PRIVILEGE of reading this a few months before release & WOW GUYS add to TBRs RIGHT. NOW.
dark college romance (SPICCCCYYYY) with romeo & juliet undertones
had the PRIVILEGE of reading this a few months before release & WOW GUYS add to TBRs RIGHT. NOW.
dark college romance (SPICCCCYYYY) with romeo & juliet undertones
December 11, 2024
3.75⭐️
Noooooooooooooooooo !!!!!!!!!!!!!
WHY ??????????????????????????????????????????
😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Noooooooooooooooooo !!!!!!!!!!!!!
WHY ??????????????????????????????????????????
😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
April 27, 2024
Enemies to lovers
Mental Health
Dark College Romance
Rival Families
Orgy Scene
Curvy FMC
Touch her and ☠️
FORBIDDEN LOVE
Let you know right up front that this book ends in a cliffhanger. 🫣😔
I did rate this book with a 5 star and a 3 for spice. Oh, did I not mention 🖤😈🥵 the really big scene? Phew!! Good golly. That was hot...
This all started with a feud between families many years ago, with some twisted stuff that happened between the two families. Was not expecting that one.
The two that get caught in between it, end up falling in love.
To protect Ash, Ember has to break up with him in hopes that will help save him from the things that will happen if she doesn't.
What she doesn't expect is to get a call from one of Ash's friends. Rain.
Will this be the end of everything??
What will happen to Ember??
What will happen, period??
My first read of Vee Taylor. I am absolutely hooked. She's an amazing author.
I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
PLEASE!!!! Hurry....
Mental Health
Dark College Romance
Rival Families
Orgy Scene
Curvy FMC
Touch her and ☠️
FORBIDDEN LOVE
Let you know right up front that this book ends in a cliffhanger. 🫣😔
I did rate this book with a 5 star and a 3 for spice. Oh, did I not mention 🖤😈🥵 the really big scene? Phew!! Good golly. That was hot...
This all started with a feud between families many years ago, with some twisted stuff that happened between the two families. Was not expecting that one.
The two that get caught in between it, end up falling in love.
To protect Ash, Ember has to break up with him in hopes that will help save him from the things that will happen if she doesn't.
What she doesn't expect is to get a call from one of Ash's friends. Rain.
Will this be the end of everything??
What will happen to Ember??
What will happen, period??
My first read of Vee Taylor. I am absolutely hooked. She's an amazing author.
I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
PLEASE!!!! Hurry....
August 30, 2024
Yikes. I don't want to bash this author as I'm sure she is lovely, but this book was so wildly not for me. I could list about ten things that were completely off-putting to me. However, the worst offender and the "game over" point in my reading journey through this book was when Ember's friends try and make her feel bad for not wanting to participate in some wild sexual hazing her boyfriend asked her to do, stating that sometimes you have to give a little for the sake of love. Ummm.. no no no a thousand times over no. This was actually one of the most mentally twisted and repulsive things I've read and DNF'ed at this point faster then I could physically throw the book across the room.
April 20, 2024
I received this ARC from The Author Agency in exchange for an honest review. This is my first book by this author. I loved the dark academia vibes of the world that Vee created. I had a little trouble connecting with the FMC, Ember. I cannot tell if it was the writing style of Ember's inner monologue or her thought process, which seemed to be so hot and cold that it gave me whiplash from paragraph to paragraph. I really liked the MMC Ash. I found the writing style of his chapters to be a lot easier to flow through. I felt that Ash's character, though complicated, was portrayed in a way that allowed me to really connect with him. I love the idea of the plot. The Romeo and Juliet vibes were great, however I wish that there was a little less insta-love/lust between the two characters in the beginning. While there was a plot, this book was heavy on the spice. There were multiple scenes throughout. I personally feel like the target audience for this book is someone new to dark romance. This series has some great potential and after that massive cliffhanger, I will be reading the second book. While I know Vee is a newer author, I'm interested to watch her grow into this role.
▪️Characters: 4/5 (mainly for Ash & Rain)
▪️Plot: 3.5/5
▪️Pacing: 3/5
▪️World Building: 5/5
▪️Spice: 4/5
▪️ Writing Style: 3/5
▪️ Overall Rating: 3.75/5 (rounded to a 4)
▪️Characters: 4/5 (mainly for Ash & Rain)
▪️Plot: 3.5/5
▪️Pacing: 3/5
▪️World Building: 5/5
▪️Spice: 4/5
▪️ Writing Style: 3/5
▪️ Overall Rating: 3.75/5 (rounded to a 4)
May 28, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down. I was so immersed into this book that I finished it all in one day 🤩
Into the Darkness follows Ember as she embarks on a journey of self discovery. She is finally out of her family’s overprotective home and is now living on her own while she starts her first year of college. Barely a month into college and she has already been claimed by her brother’s rival frat, The Den. Of course Ash, the leader of The Den, now has his eyes on her.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Ember and Ash. They began as enemies and eventually turned into lovers. They fought and had spicy make-up “fun” 🌶️🥵. Overall, they had an amazing relationship. I only would have wished for there to have been a tad bit more angst and tension between them.
Beware of the cliffhanger! This is a Duology and book 2 is currently not out so prepare yourself for a heartbreaking ending 🤧 I’m desperate for book 2 😭
Thank you so much Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for sending me this ARC 🫶
Into the Darkness follows Ember as she embarks on a journey of self discovery. She is finally out of her family’s overprotective home and is now living on her own while she starts her first year of college. Barely a month into college and she has already been claimed by her brother’s rival frat, The Den. Of course Ash, the leader of The Den, now has his eyes on her.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Ember and Ash. They began as enemies and eventually turned into lovers. They fought and had spicy make-up “fun” 🌶️🥵. Overall, they had an amazing relationship. I only would have wished for there to have been a tad bit more angst and tension between them.
Beware of the cliffhanger! This is a Duology and book 2 is currently not out so prepare yourself for a heartbreaking ending 🤧 I’m desperate for book 2 😭
Thank you so much Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for sending me this ARC 🫶
April 10, 2024
Into the Darkness is Romeo and Juliet inspired with enemies to lovers, curvy FMC, hot Mexican MMCs, and passionate first love romance. The SPICE is spicy and the initiation scene 🔥🥵
This book (and entire duet) is MY roman empire. I think about ALL of these characters literally everyday. This book puts you through a rollercoaster of emotions from the very start. It tackles mental health representation, loss, grief, first love, coming of age, first time away from family/parents all wrapped up in a fantastical college setting.
University of Isles is a dark and mysterious place for Ember, where she learns to find herself. She begs to go there because her brother is there, not knowing the college is considered a neutral zone for big crime families to send their children to college "safely".
For your mental health, check trigger warnings!
Beta read ✅
ARC read ✅
ALC read ✅
This book (and entire duet) is MY roman empire. I think about ALL of these characters literally everyday. This book puts you through a rollercoaster of emotions from the very start. It tackles mental health representation, loss, grief, first love, coming of age, first time away from family/parents all wrapped up in a fantastical college setting.
University of Isles is a dark and mysterious place for Ember, where she learns to find herself. She begs to go there because her brother is there, not knowing the college is considered a neutral zone for big crime families to send their children to college "safely".
For your mental health, check trigger warnings!
Beta read ✅
ARC read ✅
ALC read ✅
April 18, 2024
OMG I finished this book in one day. This book reminded me of the LORD series but it’s less dark.
I really loved the storyline and OMG that ending 😱 I didn’t see that one coming.
I really loved the storyline and OMG that ending 😱 I didn’t see that one coming.
December 8, 2025
This was a hodgepodge of messy nonsensical scenes and tropes, piled up in a book/audio marketed misleadingly as dark romance - it is not “romance” because MMC dies at the end of book 1 & in book 2 we get another MMC as love interest!
Narration is duet style 5/5🎧
Story 1,5/5 ⭐️with messy unsafe scenes (although it is supposed to be M/F type of romantic relationship it had orgies, sharing etc!) and unlikable characters!
Also TW do not include details about sharing, DP and the description of this book states it is a dark romance(this means a happy ending or happy for now not death of a main character and a sort of bait and switch for the second part.) Erotic drama/tragedy should be a better choice !
Overhyped!!!
Narration is duet style 5/5🎧
Story 1,5/5 ⭐️with messy unsafe scenes (although it is supposed to be M/F type of romantic relationship it had orgies, sharing etc!) and unlikable characters!
Also TW do not include details about sharing, DP and the description of this book states it is a dark romance(this means a happy ending or happy for now not death of a main character and a sort of bait and switch for the second part.) Erotic drama/tragedy should be a better choice !
Overhyped!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2024
I REALLY enjoyed this one. There’s something about a dark college mixed with some rival families that just hits.
We love a good girl turned bad girl🔥 and ASH🥹🖤 my man just wants to make a change you can tell he’s fighting some demons.
•PERFECT amount of spice and plot.
•HE FALLS SO HARD
•easy to understand the drama/rivalry
(Also the names Ember and Ash are so damn cute together😍🫶🏻)
SO LIKE WHENS THE NEXT BOOK BECAUSE THAT ENDING?!???
We love a good girl turned bad girl🔥 and ASH🥹🖤 my man just wants to make a change you can tell he’s fighting some demons.
•PERFECT amount of spice and plot.
•HE FALLS SO HARD
•easy to understand the drama/rivalry
(Also the names Ember and Ash are so damn cute together😍🫶🏻)
SO LIKE WHENS THE NEXT BOOK BECAUSE THAT ENDING?!???
April 4, 2024
Into the Darkness
By Vee Taylor
@veetaylorauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
So many of the M@fi@ romances start off with hatred, then love 💣 .
But Ash?
Ash is different.
Not like the other guys…
Just kidding lol it’s not that trope at all, but for real Ash is amazing and suchhh a complex character.
I adore Ash and Ember so much.
This story fully envelopes you and sucks you in.
It makes you want to finish the enter book in one sitting.
It’s a genuine masterpiece imo.
Romeo and Juliet style.
It’s so amazing, and I don’t find myself saying “you are really going to let him talk to you like that??”
Like I do with a lot of books 😂
I love this book so much
So my husband always listens to audio books with me because I listen in the car while we drive to our elopements, and we are at the initiation seen…
He just wanted me to mention in my review
That this is a damn good book.
😂🤌🏻
Holy shit. Can we please talk about the SPICE! 🔥🌶️
Holy sheeeeeetttt Vee can write the Frick out of spice.
This was a good book.
Ash is everything
And Ember is a whole baddie!!
I can’t handle how good this book was.
My husband and I ended this book with our mouths gaping open.
The ending is SUCH a twist.
I hadn’t seen it coming at all.
It’s very very well written.
Kinda in love with this book.
It ripped my heart out, it’s epically dark.
It’s a 5⭐️ read for both of us.
Omg.
By Vee Taylor
@veetaylorauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
So many of the M@fi@ romances start off with hatred, then love 💣 .
But Ash?
Ash is different.
Not like the other guys…
Just kidding lol it’s not that trope at all, but for real Ash is amazing and suchhh a complex character.
I adore Ash and Ember so much.
This story fully envelopes you and sucks you in.
It makes you want to finish the enter book in one sitting.
It’s a genuine masterpiece imo.
Romeo and Juliet style.
It’s so amazing, and I don’t find myself saying “you are really going to let him talk to you like that??”
Like I do with a lot of books 😂
I love this book so much
So my husband always listens to audio books with me because I listen in the car while we drive to our elopements, and we are at the initiation seen…
He just wanted me to mention in my review
That this is a damn good book.
😂🤌🏻
Holy shit. Can we please talk about the SPICE! 🔥🌶️
Holy sheeeeeetttt Vee can write the Frick out of spice.
This was a good book.
Ash is everything
And Ember is a whole baddie!!
I can’t handle how good this book was.
My husband and I ended this book with our mouths gaping open.
The ending is SUCH a twist.
I hadn’t seen it coming at all.
It’s very very well written.
Kinda in love with this book.
It ripped my heart out, it’s epically dark.
It’s a 5⭐️ read for both of us.
Omg.
April 24, 2024
Heartbreak City
Quote:📖
Into the darkness I’ll go, and into the light I’ll be.
Thoughts: 💡
This book starts in tragedy and ends on a devastating one. I enjoyed Ember’s character as she tried new things and came out of her shell to find herself. Her relationship with Ash was hot and intriguing and I really cheered for them. The cliffhanger on this was a doozy though and I’m not sure how the story can recover, I’ll be interested too see what the author does in the next book.
Writing Mechanics: ✍️
The grammar in this book was extremely rough, it probably would have been five stars if I didn’t struggle so much with it. So if you’re not a sticker for grammar, word choice, and phrasing I would strongly recommend it. If poor grammar trips you up then you’ll need to brace yourself.
✨Note:✨Ends on a brutal cliffy
Full Content Warning:⚠️
murder, death, over possessive partner, emotional manipulation, controlling father with grooming, spiked drink, underage drinking, group sex (orgies), initiation sex rituals, CNC, Dub-con, and self-unaliving & depression, death of a parent
Stats:📊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters:💙💙💙💙
Dark Romance: Romeo and Juliet, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden, College, Rival Families/Fraternities, Hispanic MMC/Curvy FMC, Mafia/Cartel romance, Mental Health, Cliffhanger
First Person, Past Tense, Dual POV
Quote:📖
Into the darkness I’ll go, and into the light I’ll be.
Thoughts: 💡
This book starts in tragedy and ends on a devastating one. I enjoyed Ember’s character as she tried new things and came out of her shell to find herself. Her relationship with Ash was hot and intriguing and I really cheered for them. The cliffhanger on this was a doozy though and I’m not sure how the story can recover, I’ll be interested too see what the author does in the next book.
Writing Mechanics: ✍️
The grammar in this book was extremely rough, it probably would have been five stars if I didn’t struggle so much with it. So if you’re not a sticker for grammar, word choice, and phrasing I would strongly recommend it. If poor grammar trips you up then you’ll need to brace yourself.
✨Note:✨Ends on a brutal cliffy
Full Content Warning:⚠️
murder, death, over possessive partner, emotional manipulation, controlling father with grooming, spiked drink, underage drinking, group sex (orgies), initiation sex rituals, CNC, Dub-con, and self-unaliving & depression, death of a parent
Stats:📊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters:💙💙💙💙
Dark Romance: Romeo and Juliet, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden, College, Rival Families/Fraternities, Hispanic MMC/Curvy FMC, Mafia/Cartel romance, Mental Health, Cliffhanger
First Person, Past Tense, Dual POV
April 9, 2024
Vee Taylor just shook me to my core with this rollercoaster of a dark college romance. It was everything I didn't know I needed! Did the last 3 chapters destroy me? Yes. Am I still unwell from that ending? Also yes. Is my brain in over drive trying to figure out what the hell is going to happen in book 2? Also-FUCKING-lutely!
Into the Darkness is the first book in a duet and is a dark college romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes. Ember has lived a very sheltered life with lots of protection. But everything is about to change as she heads to Isles for college. As she embarks on this new chapter in life that comes with more freedom, she meets a guy named Ash. The problem with Ash, is he is the son of a man who is her father's biggest rival. And what she doesn't know is Ash was sent to destroy Ember and the rest of her family.
📚 Book Tropes:
- Dark College Romance
- Romeo and Juliet Vibes
- Rival Families
- Enemies to Lovers
- Secret and Forbidden Romance
- Forced Proxiity
- Mental Health Rep
- Hispanic MMC/Curvy FMC
- Mafia/Cartel Romance
- Cliffhanger
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
💭 My Thoughts: I am UNWELL! I am still unwell! It's been days since I have tried to process what happened in the last 3 chapters and I just can't wrap my head around it. I am left with so many unanswered questions. My mind is in over drive coming up with theories for book two. And I love every minute of it! Now I knew this was going to be left on a cliffhanger, but that cliffhanger was just cruel and I refuse to accept it. But it is also making me want to beg Vee for the next book immediately! I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give away the plot but I loved this book! I loved Ember embracing her freedom and making very questionable decisions. I loved that ørgÿ scene, holy crap was the hot. I fell head over heels in love with Ash. I loved that they knew they couldn't be together and that didn't stop them.
I am so damn excited to the second book to see which one of my theories were right. There were so many breadcrumbs and things that were said that make me go feral to try to figure out what is to come and that makes me so excited! So if you are looking for a book with Romeo and Juliet vibes that will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, this one is for you! Just check your trigger warnings first and be prepared to cry!
*Thank you to Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for allowing me the opportunity to read Into the Darkness as an Arc in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review! I am so internally grateful and thankful!
Into the Darkness is the first book in a duet and is a dark college romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes. Ember has lived a very sheltered life with lots of protection. But everything is about to change as she heads to Isles for college. As she embarks on this new chapter in life that comes with more freedom, she meets a guy named Ash. The problem with Ash, is he is the son of a man who is her father's biggest rival. And what she doesn't know is Ash was sent to destroy Ember and the rest of her family.
📚 Book Tropes:
- Dark College Romance
- Romeo and Juliet Vibes
- Rival Families
- Enemies to Lovers
- Secret and Forbidden Romance
- Forced Proxiity
- Mental Health Rep
- Hispanic MMC/Curvy FMC
- Mafia/Cartel Romance
- Cliffhanger
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
💭 My Thoughts: I am UNWELL! I am still unwell! It's been days since I have tried to process what happened in the last 3 chapters and I just can't wrap my head around it. I am left with so many unanswered questions. My mind is in over drive coming up with theories for book two. And I love every minute of it! Now I knew this was going to be left on a cliffhanger, but that cliffhanger was just cruel and I refuse to accept it. But it is also making me want to beg Vee for the next book immediately! I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give away the plot but I loved this book! I loved Ember embracing her freedom and making very questionable decisions. I loved that ørgÿ scene, holy crap was the hot. I fell head over heels in love with Ash. I loved that they knew they couldn't be together and that didn't stop them.
I am so damn excited to the second book to see which one of my theories were right. There were so many breadcrumbs and things that were said that make me go feral to try to figure out what is to come and that makes me so excited! So if you are looking for a book with Romeo and Juliet vibes that will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, this one is for you! Just check your trigger warnings first and be prepared to cry!
*Thank you to Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for allowing me the opportunity to read Into the Darkness as an Arc in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review! I am so internally grateful and thankful!
April 21, 2024
I need book two NOW. That cliffhanger!? My brain keeps trying to come up with different possibilities to the way this story will go. I can't wait to read more.
I enjoyed this book and the overall plot. I'm a sucker for a good "forbidden" romance, and this did not disappoint.
I loved each of the mc's and many side characters as well.
The only reason for the deduction of a star was because there were a few times I thought the timeline felt a little rushed, and others times that jumped around to much for me, but that was just my opinion.
The book is well written and made me feel many different emotions.
I am excited to see what will happen next.
I enjoyed this book and the overall plot. I'm a sucker for a good "forbidden" romance, and this did not disappoint.
I loved each of the mc's and many side characters as well.
The only reason for the deduction of a star was because there were a few times I thought the timeline felt a little rushed, and others times that jumped around to much for me, but that was just my opinion.
The book is well written and made me feel many different emotions.
I am excited to see what will happen next.
April 13, 2024
ARC review: I am so glad I was chosen to be an ARC reader for this book; this was my first time as an ARC reader. I loved the story, the characters, the setting, the chaos, the deception and turmoil. This is a story about forbidden love, family, complex relationships and situations, friendship, obsession, and secrecy mixed in with some dark college romance and a bit of smut! To me, all of these things are the perfect combination of ingredients needed to make you crave a good story. The modern day “Romeo-and-Juliet” vibe collides with a sort of “Sons of Anarchy” vibe which was very entertaining and engaging for me.
Excellent book. Great writing, overall. I LOVE the descriptive imagery in Vee’s writing, but there were a few times I felt the descriptive terms were *slightly* overdone and didn’t quite match the character’s personality. Also, the instantaneous and immediate love between the main characters seemed a bit far-fetched; I would have liked to see a bit more development/angst between them in the beginning. There were a few minor grammatical issues I saw too. These were not significant issues to me, just an honest reflection of my opinion/experience and I was still able to absolutely devour this book.
Yes, it ends in a cliffhanger that will make you want to RUN to the next book when it’s available. Thank you to the Author Agency for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Well done, Vee Taylor!! Be sure to get your copy of into the darkness by Vee Taylor on April 18, 2024!!!
Excellent book. Great writing, overall. I LOVE the descriptive imagery in Vee’s writing, but there were a few times I felt the descriptive terms were *slightly* overdone and didn’t quite match the character’s personality. Also, the instantaneous and immediate love between the main characters seemed a bit far-fetched; I would have liked to see a bit more development/angst between them in the beginning. There were a few minor grammatical issues I saw too. These were not significant issues to me, just an honest reflection of my opinion/experience and I was still able to absolutely devour this book.
Yes, it ends in a cliffhanger that will make you want to RUN to the next book when it’s available. Thank you to the Author Agency for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Well done, Vee Taylor!! Be sure to get your copy of into the darkness by Vee Taylor on April 18, 2024!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2024
Hi, hello, I will be sending Vee Taylor my therapy bill after this one.
This had slightly similar vibes as The L.O.R.D.S. series, with a more tame storyline but the same level of spice. Combining mafia vibes, with dark academia and Romeo and Juliet vibes, Vee delivers an addictive story with an epic cliffhanger (no pun intended).
Ember and Ash are more alike than they think. Ember, an Italian Mafia princess, and Ash, future head of the Mexican cartel. Both are controlled by the expectations of their fathers and thrown into a revenge scheme bound to end in devastation. When Ember's father allows her to go away to college, she does the one thing he demands she not.
The Romeo and Juliet vibes were heavy in this one, and the burning passion between Ember and Ash was everything I wanted. Their tumultuous relationship continues to build until we reach the end and are left with the most devastating cliffhanger. I couldn't be entirely surprised as there were small tidbits throughout the story that pointed to this end, but my jaw was still on the floor for the the last two chapters. I will be living in delulu land until book two comes out because I refuse to believe that is actually what happens.
I would highly recommend checking the TW's on this one, but definitely check it out!
This had slightly similar vibes as The L.O.R.D.S. series, with a more tame storyline but the same level of spice. Combining mafia vibes, with dark academia and Romeo and Juliet vibes, Vee delivers an addictive story with an epic cliffhanger (no pun intended).
Ember and Ash are more alike than they think. Ember, an Italian Mafia princess, and Ash, future head of the Mexican cartel. Both are controlled by the expectations of their fathers and thrown into a revenge scheme bound to end in devastation. When Ember's father allows her to go away to college, she does the one thing he demands she not.
The Romeo and Juliet vibes were heavy in this one, and the burning passion between Ember and Ash was everything I wanted. Their tumultuous relationship continues to build until we reach the end and are left with the most devastating cliffhanger. I couldn't be entirely surprised as there were small tidbits throughout the story that pointed to this end, but my jaw was still on the floor for the the last two chapters. I will be living in delulu land until book two comes out because I refuse to believe that is actually what happens.
I would highly recommend checking the TW's on this one, but definitely check it out!
June 28, 2024
Into the Darkness
One second the main character is like, I will never go back home, I love my freedom! Then next paragraph she’s talking about how much she misses her quiet life at home….
She calls the MMC mysterious. Ya he’s mysterious because at this point you’ve only known him for 10 minutes!
Dialogue is so cringy and unrealistic. Makes me want to die.
“After my shitty morning thinking about Ash was the best part.” The guy she barely knows who has done nothing but embarrass her in class in front of everyone and parked his car next to hers.
“He was the type of guy who seemed like he didn’t laugh often, so hearing it was like hearing the softest melody on a stormy day.”
“I pulled up and found her key tucked away in their separate little pocket. I love that even though tonight proved she had that darkness inside of her, these quirks were still uniquely hers.” What about putting your keys in a separate pocket is quirky?
“I understand Ash but… you are enough for me.” Again, this guy’s only redeeming quality so far is he changed her flat tire! But she already knows he’s a good person.
The MMC gets angry at Ember because she knows about the rivalry between the 2 fraternities that is literally common knowledge.
The girl gets drugged and tattooed against her will at the party of the MMC. Then he takes her to dinner and insists she needs to trust him. When she obviously says, I can’t, he storms out angry.
He fixes her flat tire and she immediately is like, oh man I shouldn’t have been so hard on the guy who might’ve drugged me and tattoo’d me against my will. Clearly he’s a great person. Eye Roll
Ember feels guilty after breaking up with Ash for asking her to have public sex. Like how could she be so unreasonable?!? Not only being on display during sex, but letting others touch her, without prior consent or even knowing them.
Ember was annoying. Ash was over dramatic and mentally unwell.
One second the main character is like, I will never go back home, I love my freedom! Then next paragraph she’s talking about how much she misses her quiet life at home….
She calls the MMC mysterious. Ya he’s mysterious because at this point you’ve only known him for 10 minutes!
Dialogue is so cringy and unrealistic. Makes me want to die.
“After my shitty morning thinking about Ash was the best part.” The guy she barely knows who has done nothing but embarrass her in class in front of everyone and parked his car next to hers.
“He was the type of guy who seemed like he didn’t laugh often, so hearing it was like hearing the softest melody on a stormy day.”
“I pulled up and found her key tucked away in their separate little pocket. I love that even though tonight proved she had that darkness inside of her, these quirks were still uniquely hers.” What about putting your keys in a separate pocket is quirky?
“I understand Ash but… you are enough for me.” Again, this guy’s only redeeming quality so far is he changed her flat tire! But she already knows he’s a good person.
The MMC gets angry at Ember because she knows about the rivalry between the 2 fraternities that is literally common knowledge.
The girl gets drugged and tattooed against her will at the party of the MMC. Then he takes her to dinner and insists she needs to trust him. When she obviously says, I can’t, he storms out angry.
He fixes her flat tire and she immediately is like, oh man I shouldn’t have been so hard on the guy who might’ve drugged me and tattoo’d me against my will. Clearly he’s a great person. Eye Roll
Ember feels guilty after breaking up with Ash for asking her to have public sex. Like how could she be so unreasonable?!? Not only being on display during sex, but letting others touch her, without prior consent or even knowing them.
Ember was annoying. Ash was over dramatic and mentally unwell.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2024
Into the Darkness is the first book in a new college, dark mafia/cartel duet. This book is chaotic, intense, and angsty AF. While the MCs story is one of love, they face many obstacles, some more depraved than others
With that said, if you have any trigger warnings, you should know that this story has some dark elements, such as branding, humiliation, open door scences with dubious consent. Your mental health matters, so please be mindful while reading.
Ash Ortiz prince to the United States Mexican Cartel. He knows he's a born leader but doesn't want the job or what comes along with it. Ash is in college at the University of Isles, leader of the Den and he has been tasked to lure the sister of a rival family into their mist so his father can have his revenge.
Ember Solis princess to the United States Italian Mafia. She's protected and suffocated but naive to think her father's business is in stocks and bonds. She has come to the University of Isles for the writing program and her brother is the leader of the Alphas and she has been warned to stay away from the Den.
Ash and Ember burn like there names, she is stronger than she ever imagined and even though Ash is a leader his mental health causes him some issues. They smolder together and when it's time for the show down of a bonfire, lives will change, choices and life directions will go awry.
With that said, if you have any trigger warnings, you should know that this story has some dark elements, such as branding, humiliation, open door scences with dubious consent. Your mental health matters, so please be mindful while reading.
Ash Ortiz prince to the United States Mexican Cartel. He knows he's a born leader but doesn't want the job or what comes along with it. Ash is in college at the University of Isles, leader of the Den and he has been tasked to lure the sister of a rival family into their mist so his father can have his revenge.
Ember Solis princess to the United States Italian Mafia. She's protected and suffocated but naive to think her father's business is in stocks and bonds. She has come to the University of Isles for the writing program and her brother is the leader of the Alphas and she has been warned to stay away from the Den.
Ash and Ember burn like there names, she is stronger than she ever imagined and even though Ash is a leader his mental health causes him some issues. They smolder together and when it's time for the show down of a bonfire, lives will change, choices and life directions will go awry.
April 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Ember finally is able to convince her Dad and brother to let her venture out of the sheltered life she’s always lived and attend the college of her dreams. With that of course came a few rules, but the number one on the list? She breaks right away and falls head over heels for the one person she was suppose to stay away from, Ash Ortiz.
The storyline was ✨amazing✨ I loved the modern day Romeo and Juliet vibes to it. You literally go on the whirlwind of emotions Ember goes through from the push and pull from Ash. My heart was hurting for both of them because from the start you just knew their relationship was doomed with all the secrets between them. UGH and that ending I cannot - there better be a book 2. 😩
Ember finally is able to convince her Dad and brother to let her venture out of the sheltered life she’s always lived and attend the college of her dreams. With that of course came a few rules, but the number one on the list? She breaks right away and falls head over heels for the one person she was suppose to stay away from, Ash Ortiz.
The storyline was ✨amazing✨ I loved the modern day Romeo and Juliet vibes to it. You literally go on the whirlwind of emotions Ember goes through from the push and pull from Ash. My heart was hurting for both of them because from the start you just knew their relationship was doomed with all the secrets between them. UGH and that ending I cannot - there better be a book 2. 😩
April 16, 2024
I love the idea and concept of this book. Think of mafia romance meets the Sacrifice by Shantel Tessier. But I struggled through reading it. I personally am not a fan of the writing style and found that there were things missing. Just seemed to have some plot holes. I sadly had to DNF although I wish the book and author well! It just wasn’t my style of writing.
March 7, 2024
Holy, all things twisted. This book gutted me. Vee took a dark college romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes and said “Hold my beer”. Love Ember and Ash! Oh the cliffhanger though. I need the next book ASAP!!
October 24, 2024
This duet was SO GOOD! The first book left me feeling blindsided and I truly think Vee was brilliant for that because the way she did book two it truly gave all the answers and shows you a different side to depression and how you don’t always KNOW what’s going on in someones head. I truly thought this duet was beautifully heartbreaking and eyeopening and would definitely recommend it! Make sure to check your TW’S because it does cover some really tough topics but gosh it was done so well.
Into the Darkness is Romeo and Juliet inspired with enemies to lovers, curvy FMC, hot Mexican MMCs, and passionate first love romance.
Into the light is a bonding through trauma book
Just be ready to grab some tissues and buckle up cause it’s a RIDE
Into the Darkness is Romeo and Juliet inspired with enemies to lovers, curvy FMC, hot Mexican MMCs, and passionate first love romance.
Into the light is a bonding through trauma book
Just be ready to grab some tissues and buckle up cause it’s a RIDE
May 6, 2024
This book! 😭 This God damn book. I started it at 2am. Finished it by 330 and when I tell you I SOBBED. This book was absolutely amazing. I cannot even put into words how much I LOVED it.
“Into the darkness I’ll go, and into the light I’ll be.”
Ember our sweet and sheltered FMC. Came out of her shell and fell in love with the one person her family warmed her not to. She was so strong in so many ways.
Ash oh Ash 😭😭 I don’t know if I’ll ever recover from this! He fought so hard to be the right guy and man Ember needed. He was supposed to ruin her but instead he fell in love with her.
“Tu eres mi mundo, mi sol.”
“You are my world, my sun. “
I’d also like to give mention to Rain. He was the Rock Ash needed but also became that for Ember too. Although I fear he may have an ulterior motive. 😭
This book ends on a major cliffy so be prepared.
I’m so ready for the second book. Thank you, Vee, for putting this book into the world. I absolutely loved it.
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!!
Dark college
Mafia
Touch her and die
Forbidden romance
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS!!! While this isn't dark Romance per say it does have some really heavy topics.
ABSOLUTLEY AMAZING!!!
5/5 For the book as a whole
“Into the darkness I’ll go, and into the light I’ll be.”
Ember our sweet and sheltered FMC. Came out of her shell and fell in love with the one person her family warmed her not to. She was so strong in so many ways.
Ash oh Ash 😭😭 I don’t know if I’ll ever recover from this! He fought so hard to be the right guy and man Ember needed. He was supposed to ruin her but instead he fell in love with her.
“Tu eres mi mundo, mi sol.”
“You are my world, my sun. “
I’d also like to give mention to Rain. He was the Rock Ash needed but also became that for Ember too. Although I fear he may have an ulterior motive. 😭
This book ends on a major cliffy so be prepared.
I’m so ready for the second book. Thank you, Vee, for putting this book into the world. I absolutely loved it.
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!!
Dark college
Mafia
Touch her and die
Forbidden romance
PLEASE READ THE TRIGGERS!!! While this isn't dark Romance per say it does have some really heavy topics.
ABSOLUTLEY AMAZING!!!
5/5 For the book as a whole
April 13, 2024
“Into the darkness, I go, and into the light I’ll be.”
“Into the Darkness” is Book 1 in the University of Isles Duet by Vee Tylor. This is the fourth book I’ve read from her, and it didn’t disappoint. Usually, dark romances are not my go-to, but I love her writing and books.
Tropes:
-Enemies to lovers
-Rival families
-Dark college romance
-Curvy FMC
-Hispanic FMC
-Spicy
4.5⭐️
4🌶️
TW’s: Mentions of murder, mafia/cartel settings, possessiveness over partner, emotional manipulation, controlling father, drink spiking, underage drinking, explicit sex scenes, suicide and depression.
‼️Please take care of your mental health.
Summary:
Ember Solis leaves her sheltered life for college, where she falls under the spell of bad boy Ash Ortiz. Despite learning from him, their love comes at a price, forcing Ember to choose between her family and Ash. As she grapples with this decision, Ember’s worldview undergoes a profound shift.
Review:
The book is somewhat of a retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Ember has been blind to her family’s real business all her life. They never told her, but now in college, she discovers the truth. On the other hand, we have Ash, trained all his life to lead the US Mexican Cartel. It wasn’t his choice, but he was groomed for it.
Her family warned her not to associate with The Den fraternity or talk to Ash Ortiz, but that’s the first thing she does. Understandably, having been sheltered at home, she’s curious to experience college life. Ember feels drawn to Ash and senses a change in herself around him. While Ash initially sees her as a means to an end, he starts to develop genuine feelings for her. Their relationship progresses quickly but convincingly.
The book contains explicit scenes, including orgies, so if that’s not your cup of tea, it might be best to avoid it. However, the balance between spice and plot is well-maintained. Ash has more experience than Ember. After experiencing vanilla sex for the first time, Ember found herself addicted to Ash, who helped her explore her curiosity and has a very filthy mouth.
Ash’s softer side emerges only for Ember. He’s willing to do anything for her, and their love feels authentic. Ember is also fiercely protective of him. Her presence brings balance to Ash, who has struggled with depression since childhood. Perhaps the pressure his father puts on him has contributed to his depression. Their relationship is portrayed with respect, and the representation of mental health is commendable.
“She was my equilibrium, my anchor, and her absence left an aching void that gnawed at my core.”
On the other hand, the suspense aspect adds another layer to the story, which I enjoyed. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for the next installment. I know the wait is going to be worth it. Despite the suspense, "Into the Darkness" is a compelling read that I highly recommend.
Thank you, Vee Taylor, for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
“Into the Darkness” is Book 1 in the University of Isles Duet by Vee Tylor. This is the fourth book I’ve read from her, and it didn’t disappoint. Usually, dark romances are not my go-to, but I love her writing and books.
Tropes:
-Enemies to lovers
-Rival families
-Dark college romance
-Curvy FMC
-Hispanic FMC
-Spicy
4.5⭐️
4🌶️
TW’s: Mentions of murder, mafia/cartel settings, possessiveness over partner, emotional manipulation, controlling father, drink spiking, underage drinking, explicit sex scenes, suicide and depression.
‼️Please take care of your mental health.
Summary:
Ember Solis leaves her sheltered life for college, where she falls under the spell of bad boy Ash Ortiz. Despite learning from him, their love comes at a price, forcing Ember to choose between her family and Ash. As she grapples with this decision, Ember’s worldview undergoes a profound shift.
Review:
The book is somewhat of a retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Ember has been blind to her family’s real business all her life. They never told her, but now in college, she discovers the truth. On the other hand, we have Ash, trained all his life to lead the US Mexican Cartel. It wasn’t his choice, but he was groomed for it.
Her family warned her not to associate with The Den fraternity or talk to Ash Ortiz, but that’s the first thing she does. Understandably, having been sheltered at home, she’s curious to experience college life. Ember feels drawn to Ash and senses a change in herself around him. While Ash initially sees her as a means to an end, he starts to develop genuine feelings for her. Their relationship progresses quickly but convincingly.
The book contains explicit scenes, including orgies, so if that’s not your cup of tea, it might be best to avoid it. However, the balance between spice and plot is well-maintained. Ash has more experience than Ember. After experiencing vanilla sex for the first time, Ember found herself addicted to Ash, who helped her explore her curiosity and has a very filthy mouth.
Ash’s softer side emerges only for Ember. He’s willing to do anything for her, and their love feels authentic. Ember is also fiercely protective of him. Her presence brings balance to Ash, who has struggled with depression since childhood. Perhaps the pressure his father puts on him has contributed to his depression. Their relationship is portrayed with respect, and the representation of mental health is commendable.
“She was my equilibrium, my anchor, and her absence left an aching void that gnawed at my core.”
On the other hand, the suspense aspect adds another layer to the story, which I enjoyed. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for the next installment. I know the wait is going to be worth it. Despite the suspense, "Into the Darkness" is a compelling read that I highly recommend.
Thank you, Vee Taylor, for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 7, 2024
4.5⭐️
First of all, the audacity of that ended! If you can’t handle cliff hangers you better hold off until the next book is out.
Now aside from that mini rant: the book was fantastic. A lot of the books in this genre (college dark romance, organized crime, etc) are spice driven with plot and overall story being secondary. Into the Darkness is a very plot/character driven novel with the aspects we all have come to love and expect from the genre. But the book doesn’t rely on spice to move the plot forward making it a really well rounded read. I kept catching myself saying “just one more chapter”. I wouldn’t call it fast-paced but the plot moved along consistently and keeps the reader engaged.
Every time I thought I knew what was coming, I was proven wrong. While the relationship between Ember and Ash sometime felt rushed, it always slowed back down, often with the character acknowledging it. Secondary characters were also great. I so hope we get more of Rain in the next book.
Will I be preordering the next book? Absolutely.
Thank you to Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for providing the ARC for an unbiased review.
First of all, the audacity of that ended! If you can’t handle cliff hangers you better hold off until the next book is out.
Now aside from that mini rant: the book was fantastic. A lot of the books in this genre (college dark romance, organized crime, etc) are spice driven with plot and overall story being secondary. Into the Darkness is a very plot/character driven novel with the aspects we all have come to love and expect from the genre. But the book doesn’t rely on spice to move the plot forward making it a really well rounded read. I kept catching myself saying “just one more chapter”. I wouldn’t call it fast-paced but the plot moved along consistently and keeps the reader engaged.
Every time I thought I knew what was coming, I was proven wrong. While the relationship between Ember and Ash sometime felt rushed, it always slowed back down, often with the character acknowledging it. Secondary characters were also great. I so hope we get more of Rain in the next book.
Will I be preordering the next book? Absolutely.
Thank you to Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for providing the ARC for an unbiased review.
April 24, 2024
✨ARC/ALC Review - 5 ⭐️4🌶️✨📚
If Vee Taylor wasn’t already one of my favorite authors she would be after this book. 📚 Absolutely hooked from the beginning, it’s impossible not to fall in love with both Ember and Ash! The story follows Ember Solis and Ash Ortiz who both are children to rival families. Ash tells Ember not to fall in love with him, little did he know he’d fall first. Ember would do anything to protect Ash, and Ash would do anything to keep Ember Safe. The spice in this book was perfect 🌶️✨ This is book one of a duet, and ends in a cliffhanger that will leave you at the edge of your seat, I was literally sobbing at the ending. I can’t wait for book two!!
Also, since I did get this as an ALC as well, let me just say the narrators did such an amazing job. Oscar Reyes was the perfect Ash Ortiz and Paige Reisengeld the perfect Ember Solis ✨ Being able to listen to this ARC just added to how emotional it was.
I’d like to thank author Vee Taylor for the opportunity to get an ALC of this book and also Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for the opportunity of also getting an ARC version!
If Vee Taylor wasn’t already one of my favorite authors she would be after this book. 📚 Absolutely hooked from the beginning, it’s impossible not to fall in love with both Ember and Ash! The story follows Ember Solis and Ash Ortiz who both are children to rival families. Ash tells Ember not to fall in love with him, little did he know he’d fall first. Ember would do anything to protect Ash, and Ash would do anything to keep Ember Safe. The spice in this book was perfect 🌶️✨ This is book one of a duet, and ends in a cliffhanger that will leave you at the edge of your seat, I was literally sobbing at the ending. I can’t wait for book two!!
Also, since I did get this as an ALC as well, let me just say the narrators did such an amazing job. Oscar Reyes was the perfect Ash Ortiz and Paige Reisengeld the perfect Ember Solis ✨ Being able to listen to this ARC just added to how emotional it was.
I’d like to thank author Vee Taylor for the opportunity to get an ALC of this book and also Vee Taylor and The Author Agency for the opportunity of also getting an ARC version!
April 19, 2024
The only word I can come up with to describe this book is unbelievable!!! I am in LOVE with Into The Darkness!!! Vee Taylor is an incredible writer this is the 4th book I’ve read by her and although I love anything the woman writes (literally would buy a grocery list from her if she wrote it) this is my FAVORITE book!! Ember and Ash are beautiful. Ash loves Ember with an all consuming love and will literally do anything to keep her safe! Ember girl you came into your own your first year of college! I don’t want to give to much away! But if you love romance with a soul touching story inspired by Romeo and Juliet with some very spicy scenes also with a dash of twists then this is THE PERFECT book for you!!! Be forewarned there is a cliff hanger and you will need a shoulder to cry on and a basket to put the pieces of you in after!!! I can’t NOT wait for book two!!!
April 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️ / 🌶️🌶️
Into the Darkness is a modern day Romeo & Juliet inspired dark college romance where the FMC Ember and MMC Ash are from two rival families.
Both the blurb and the tropes sounded interesting, but unfortunately the book itself wasn’t for me. The first chapter of the book was promising but after that I personally wasn’t invested in the plot or the main characters.
I didn’t feel chemistry between the FMC & MMC and wasn’t a huge fan of their relationship or how they ended up together. In my opinion the FMC forgave the MMC too easily after what he did to her.
The book ended with a cliffhanger and there were a lot of questions left unanswered.
I almost DNF the book, but decided to push through and finish reading after seeing multiple 4-5 star reviews.
I have nothing against the author or the book itself, the plot and characters just weren’t for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
Into the Darkness is a modern day Romeo & Juliet inspired dark college romance where the FMC Ember and MMC Ash are from two rival families.
Both the blurb and the tropes sounded interesting, but unfortunately the book itself wasn’t for me. The first chapter of the book was promising but after that I personally wasn’t invested in the plot or the main characters.
I didn’t feel chemistry between the FMC & MMC and wasn’t a huge fan of their relationship or how they ended up together. In my opinion the FMC forgave the MMC too easily after what he did to her.
The book ended with a cliffhanger and there were a lot of questions left unanswered.
I almost DNF the book, but decided to push through and finish reading after seeing multiple 4-5 star reviews.
I have nothing against the author or the book itself, the plot and characters just weren’t for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
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