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Ara

I knew stepping into Roarfort was a bad idea. I knew it, and I still did it.

The consequence?

It came in the form of an enigma, Zagan Devlin. The Devil of the region. The mafia boss whose name alone evokes the fear of death.

I’m not prepared to find him at every corner, or for him to become my stalker.

I’m not prepared for the feelings he stirs inside me.

But he isn’t the only danger in my life. Ever since I escaped, something far worse has been looming over me, and Zagan’s presence might make it all the more deadly.

Running is my only option.



Zagan

An imbalance.

A siren.

A seductress.

Ara Sinclair is more than she lets the world see. She’s chaos wrapped in seduction, a temptation I’ve spent all my life resisting.

But she has my attention. From the moment I saw her, she owned it. She’s a mystery I’m obsessed with unravelling, a craving I can no longer deny.

Ara is mine. She can beg for freedom, but in my world, possession is the only mercy I offer.

She can run, but I will always hunt her.

543 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 12, 2025

17 people are currently reading
335 people want to read

About the author

Vanya Nox

2 books50 followers
Vanya Nox loves writing gothic fiction and dark romance with a taste for obsession, emotional intensity, and morally grey hearts.

She enjoys research spirals, true crime documentaries, and anything related to space.

When not writing, she’s reading, daydreaming, and imagining a future where she finally owns a dog.

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5 stars
69 (57%)
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36 (30%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for Shadow Reader (semi-Hiatus) .
50 reviews65 followers
March 17, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️

Tropes:
💀 Slow burn 🔥 🥵
🔪 Touch her and literally 💀 (I mean LITERALLY)
💀 Stalking
🔪 Dual POV
💀 First-person POV
🔪 OTT possessive/obsessive MMC
💀 Feisty and full of fire FMC
🔪 Mafia
💀 Secret society (referenced but not the focus)
🔪 Cliffhanger ending



**Please check trigger warnings before reading, as this book delves into dark themes from the very start ****

HOLY SHIT! When I say this book hooked me, I mean it dragged me under and refused to let go. What an EPIC read this turned out to be!

This is a SLOW BURN, and when I say slow, I mean the kind of painful, delicious angst that keeps you craving more. Vanya, you absolutely nailed it! There isn’t a lot of 🌶️ in this but I would expect that from a slow burn. The angst and tension was there 😍

What an epic read! The MMC is completely unhinged—think “chop you into tiny pieces for merely glancing at the FMC” levels of possessiveness. And I’m HERE for it.

Zagan Devlin is the Devil himself: psychotic, murderously possessive, and utterly irresistible. The only person who softens him? Ana, our fierce and fiery FMC.

Ana is everything I want in a FMC. She’s been through hell and come out stabby and strong, yet her vulnerability shines through in those rare moments when she lets Zagan hold her up. I adored her character arc.

The side characters? Absolute perfection. A band of psychotic, unhinged men who add so much depth to the story. I couldn’t get enough.

I can’t believe this is Vanya’s debut. The writing flows effortlessly, gripping you from page one. Despite being nearly 600 pages long, it literally flew by! I could not put this down

And that ending… VANYA, WHY? 😩

🌙 🌙 🌙

I want to point out this is easily my favourite read of the year so far. I am obsessed! On one or 2 occasions, there was a timeline jump between the end of one chapter and the start of another that left me with questions. I won’t spoil anything, but one chapter ended with the FMC being offered a lift home, and the next chapter jumped to an event they attended. I am wondering: Did she get in the car? What was the conversation? Did she gather any information? It’s quite possible I’m just greedy for details, but I need that information! 😭 It doesn’t confuse or hinder the story what so ever and quite frankly isn’t necessary but I just NEED to know! 😂😩


📖 *** I’m already desperate for book two, which I hear is in the works. Please, Vanya, don’t keep us waiting too long *** 📖

If you’re into dark, obsessive, slow-burn romance with unforgettable characters, READ THIS BOOK.
Profile Image for Jay.
73 reviews2 followers
March 16, 2025
4.8 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.8

I absolutely ate this book up. The story, the chemistry and don’t get me started on the writing!
The FMC Ara is so relatable- strong and bold yet often vulnerable and insecure. My heart broke for her when I read about her backstory. As for Zagan Devlin(the MMC)- I couldn’t stop fanning myself because man oh man he takes “boy obsessed trope” to another level. From the moment he was introduced, Devlin remained an enigma- scary and formidable yet mysterious. To see him go soft only for Ara did things to me. This is how you do an “insta love” trope. Another thing I absolutely loved about the book was the found family trope -Zagan’s men who were supposed to be all vicious and terrifying were total pookies when it came to their boss’s girl. The book made me swoon, giggle, scream and not to mention sob like a baby. And the ending- ahhhhhh! Can’t wait for the next book.
If this is the author’s debut novel- I can’t wait for the next gems in the series.
Profile Image for Gracy.
128 reviews
April 19, 2025
If there’s one book I never wanted to end, it’s Noctrune. From start to finish, this book had me hooked, obsessed, and absolutely feral. The tension, the spice, the writing style—everything was executed to perfection. It’s dark, gripping, and utterly addictive, making it one of the best books I’ve read in a long time.

Zagan Devlin – The Devil Himself

Zagan isn’t just a book boyfriend; he’s the book boyfriend. He’s ruthless, lethal, and carries an aura that screams power. A man of few words, but when he speaks? You feel it. He’s the kind of grumpy, broody MMC that no one dares cross—but for her, he’s a complete softie. The way he protects, watches, and stalks Ara is everything. And don’t even get me started on his sass—because this man knows how to make you weak with just a single sentence.

Dr. Ara Sinclair – A Woman Wrapped in Darkness

Ara is delusional, dangerous, and downright mesmerizing. She’s not your typical FMC—she’s willing to kill for the ones she loves, and she doesn’t hesitate when it comes to protecting her own. A single mom to an incredibly brilliant kid, she’s trying to build a life for them, but darkness lurks around her. And the way she describes her emotions? Chills. I love her unhinged side, her vulnerability, and her strength.

The Chemistry & Banter? Off the Charts

Zagan and Ara’s chemistry is on FIRE. The slow burn, the stalking, the way they care for each other in the smallest ways—her leaving a sandwich for him, him leaving a coat for her so she doesn’t get cold—it’s these little moments that made their connection feel so raw and real. And their first kiss? Literal perfection.

Side Characters, Found Family & Suspense

The side characters were just as phenomenal. The banter, the suspense, the found family element—Vanya Vox did an exceptional job making every single person in this world feel alive. They weren’t just filler; they added depth, humor, and intensity to the story.

Final Thoughts

If you love:
✔️ Grumpy/sunshine with a dark twist
✔️ Possessive MMCs who will burn the world for their woman
✔️ Slow-burn tension so thick you could cut it with a knife
✔️ A badass, delusional FMC who isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty
✔️ Suspense, plot twists, and SPICE

Then Noctrune is your next obsession. This book owned me, and I cannot wait for the second one!


A.FUCKING.MASTERPIECE!!!
THIS BOOK OWNS MY HEART!!!😩🥹🥹😭❤️‍🔥🥀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for nini⋆₊.
71 reviews21 followers
March 16, 2025
FIRST OF ALL!!! O.M.G! The author's writing style got me on the hook like it's so freaking good. The characters are so well-written tbh.
For fmc "Ara" is my favourite character in this book. Now she has a special place in my heart bc she's so freaking realistic. No drama, no pressure and there's her best friend Ivy. God... I'm sorry Miss Author but I just cannot stand her. Just please forgive me but the whole time I was praying for my Ara and THAT FCKING omg omg I need to calm down. *deep breathe* moving on To my darling Ara who's saving her life from her best friend’s dumb life decisions. That girl got patience tbh or I'll rip my hair out in the process of dealing with all the shit that is going on.😭👌🏻 Ava is a survivor, a fighter, a freaking superwoman. Her quick wit, intelligence, strong mind and will amaze me to my core bc if I'd gone through what she had I would not have survived my demons. My girl deserves only the best. When you finally get to read about her, I'm sure you'll love her too.

And moving on to our big, scary, mean, cold-hearted MMC" Devlin"(as he represents himself as🫦) Bro is tryna act nonchalant but we know what you're thinking 😔👌🏻. I was giggling whole the time I was reading his pov.
He's so whipped and it's very cute how he struggles to express his emotions towards her. I was laughing when he was always answering "NO." to her questions but ended up doing everything she said.🤣 And there's Iblis and Eero who's teasing him nonstop. As for Devlin our mmc his thoughts are too possessive for me. Ara is very own person and I don't like how Devlin trying to inward her space. (p.s. I'm possessive of Ara as well.😔)《But I think he needs character development》 (in my opinion) overall I like his character. But I'm in love with Eero. PLEASE PLEASE I NEED A BOOK ABOUT HIM!😭

And Lastly, I highly recommend this book for all the readers who love dark romance. Miss Vanya did an awesome job with building up this story that got me reading nonstop without taking a break. 💗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Suni ⋆.ೃ࿔*:・.
244 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2025
Once I picked this book up I could not put it down✨

One reason you should read this book if debating it is because the mmc in this book says that the fmc is the type of women men wage wars for or maybe because it’s mafia? Oh ever better. The opening scene? Perfect✨👏🏻 Abandoned warehouse, mystery men (bad guys!) then more guys (not so bad) who knows? 🙄

There was not a moment while read it his book did I lose interest or get bored. Every page was better than the last. The tension? phenomenal! The plot twists were so good, literally didn’t expect half of it. The second half of this book was nonstop, intense, and ugh! Now I cannot wait for the next one! Not to mention the side characters are everything to me! Just wait till you meet Eero y’all. I'm so excited to see where the rest of this series goes!
Profile Image for Sofia.
36 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2025
I'm like a person who'll immediately backs away if a book is 400 pages or more and I was afraid I couldn't finish this book. But this got me so hooked that those 500 pages didn't bother me.

And excuse me, we all deserve a big broody mafia man who only smiles for her and would literally burn the world for her, you touch her you die! Don't we? Mom get me a Zegan please!!😭

And who doesn't love a strong female character, like ma'am🛐. I love how strong Ara is despite her horrors of past. Absolutely adore her!

This book came super strong with the prologue, it'd make you hooked till the very end, totally recommended, a straight 4.5/5 stars for me!
Profile Image for Munch.
26 reviews
March 19, 2025
This book was a sure 5 stars read for me. A well narrated dark romance with a badass FMC and an indestructible MMC, this book alternates between calm and chaos, never a dull moment. The catchphrase of this book “Escape is a lie” suits perfectly for the book considering the plot always keeps the reader on their toes. Amidst all the chaos, there blooms this raw and intense obsession between the love interests, intertwining their lives forever. The psychopathic protectiveness of the MMC only added to his allure and the FMC holding her own made me feel powerful as a female reader myself. I was second-hand anxious for the FMC because the woman could barely catch a break and she took it in stride and faced it all with a darkness and fierceness, that could only be truly appreciated by the MMC. As their passion grew throughout the story, a storm brewed and oh the thrill of the romance just elevated to a whole other level. Precipitation for an unexpected sequel has been set forth at the ending of the book that had me physically gasping for air. When I finished reading this perfection, I sat there in my bed holding my kindle and staring blankly at the wall wondering how a dark romance could consume me so thoroughly. I loved every second of reading it and every page propelled me to read the next page with bated breath equal parts scared for the love interests and excited for their love.
I loved the spice personally. But I would highly recommend that you check the trigger warnings before diving in.
All my thanks to the sweetheart author of this book, Vanya Nox, for sending me the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Anshul (stories.buddy).
1,033 reviews18 followers
March 18, 2025
Five freaking stars, can I give it more?? This debut story is done right with lots of mystery, suspense and amazing world-building. Vanya Nox did a fabulous job by creating this dark mafia world that oozes uniqueness and it intrigued me from the very first line.

Hats off she is an amazing writer and has easily made me a fan of hers. She is a Gem who knows what she is doing with her books. Every dark romance lover must, I MEAN MUST-READ this book. The characters made me laugh, and sad and even surprised me at places that kept me going to know what comes next.

This book is a part of the series and ends on a cliffhanger. I hate cliffhangers but I was ok with this one as the curiosity to find out what’s in store for the next book is too much. And I definitely got some answers that soothed my crazy overthinking brain from making theories.

So now the groundwork is done and we are ready to see how everything will unfold. The Devil has questions. How is Ara going to satiate him? The chemistry between them is pure fireworks and I’m waiting to see it get more intense. I’ll be waiting for all the action. Wink-Wink.

The other characters have equally won my heart and I love big tall men who are putty for their women or their brothers' women. The respect and the care are just so adorable. Eero and Nico are something else entirely, they are really unhinged people. And the little Cas is a wonderful highly intelligent child.

I really want to say a lot but nope I’ll zip it. Go read for yourself and find out what I’m raving about.
Profile Image for Louise.
389 reviews22 followers
March 12, 2025

“𝔙𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔞𝔦𝔫𝔰 𝔩𝔦𝔨𝔢 𝔲𝔰 𝔡𝔬𝔫’𝔱 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢, 𝔡𝔞𝔯𝔩𝔦𝔫𝔤. 𝔚𝔢 𝔬𝔟𝔰𝔢𝔰𝔰. 𝔄𝔫𝔡 𝔞𝔫𝔶𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔡𝔞𝔯𝔢𝔰 𝔱𝔬𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔬𝔟𝔰𝔢𝔰𝔰𝔦𝔬𝔫? 𝔚𝔢 𝔟𝔲𝔯𝔶 𝔦𝔱.”

I loved this book so much. From the first chapter I was hooked, we’re thrown straight into the story, and I was instantly gripped.

There was lots going on, lots of elements to the story, and I was fully invested in everything that was Ara & Zagan.

I had so many questions, so many pieces of the puzzle to put together…. And I had the best time!
It was plot heavy, suspenseful, thrilling…. the tension was INTENSE! The twists were amazing…. The slow burn was done so incredibly well…., a smouldering ember, until it wasn’t.. 🥵 until everything was on fire. The slow burn was done so fucking well… Those spicy scenes were perfection. They had me gasping, kicking my feet giggling needy for more. One chapter will live rent free… HOT DAMN.

Zagan was everything I love in a OTT unhinged morally black MMC, possessive, dark & brooding.. a man of few words. But man I was hanging onto everything he said. Top tier MMC for sure! Totally feral for this book, totally feral for the next one… which by the way… I NEED LIKE MY NEXT BREATH! I need it immediately….. I had the best time reading this. I need more Zagan & Ara immediately 🤭

“𝔇𝔞𝔯𝔨𝔫𝔢𝔰𝔰 𝔦𝔰 𝔫𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯 𝔟𝔢𝔞𝔲𝔱𝔦𝔣𝔲𝔩, 𝔩𝔦𝔱𝔱𝔩𝔢 𝔰𝔦𝔯𝔢𝔫. ℑ𝔱 𝔦𝔰 𝔡𝔞𝔫𝔤𝔢𝔯𝔬𝔲𝔰 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔞𝔩𝔩-𝔠𝔬𝔫𝔰𝔲𝔪𝔦𝔫𝔤. 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔴𝔦𝔰𝔢 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔶 𝔞𝔴𝔞𝔶 𝔴𝔥𝔦𝔩𝔢 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔣𝔬𝔬𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔥 𝔱𝔯𝔶 𝔱𝔬 𝔢𝔵𝔭𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔡𝔦𝔢 𝔲𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔯 𝔦𝔱𝔰 𝔴𝔯𝔞𝔱𝔥.”

Amazing read, easy 5 star, and definitely a favourite read of 2025. This book is more plot driven, than smut. But man I am obsessed. 🧎🏻‍♀️

I want to thank @author.vanya for reaching out to me, to read this as an arc. I love discovering new authors, and am forever grateful for authors who want me to read their work. So thank you Vanya… I can’t wait for book 2! 🫶🖤

Get it on your TBR.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was an arc review, all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Karishma Chaudhary.
15 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2025
This book has everything a mafia romance reader could ask for—action, sensitive topics, angst, and intense tension between the characters. Author Vanya has done an incredible job, and I absolutely loved reading it.

Ara is a strong, confident woman—a survivor with a compassionate heart who cherishes her little family. However, she carries the weight of a haunting past, constantly running from the demons that threaten her peace. On the other hand, Devlin is the ruthless mafia boss, a devil in disguise whose mere presence commands power. He will stop at nothing to protect his people, even if it means spilling blood.

Their paths collide through an unexpected event, shaking both their worlds. From that moment on, Devlin’s obsession with Ara begins, and the chemistry between them is absolutely electrifying.

But when Ara’s past resurfaces, will she be able to face it? And how far will Devlin go to protect her from the darkness chasing her?

To find out, dive into Nocturne: Part 1.💯💯
Profile Image for Books. worm6.
22 reviews
March 16, 2025
☆☆☆☆.75/5 ⭐
.
. Okay, that was So Good!! I'm So In Love with it !! 🥹🖤
. The story was so Good and with my little experience i didn't read something like it so far, but i Loved it!!
.
. I loved Ara's Character, how she even after all the things she experienced, she still gives love to the people around her , Even the dangerous ones 🤭😂
. She's so sweet and so Strong!!
. Her story was so tragic, and traumatic, i really don't blame her at anything she did to survive .
.
.
. Zagan! Oh he's The Man !! I Loved him So Much!! I really Love the dangerous mysterious personality that is his personality!
.
. I loved the build up for their story, and even though they are both in love with eachother, but at the same time they are both scared to open up to eachother, but that understandable of how much they suffer in their life.
.
. And I'm so excited for their Love story in the next book! I know it'll be Amazing!!
.
. Overall, the story was amazing, the build up for it was So Amazing! I loved how all things revealed at the end, to build the story for the second book.
.
. And for a debut novel , it's absolutely Beautifully written, and I'm so excited for the second book to come out!!
Profile Image for J.N. Bamforth.
Author 8 books79 followers
March 16, 2025
First off, a huge thank you to @author.vanya for reaching out to me and giving me the chance to read her debut book and what a book it was!

If you loved the Dark Verse series and The Mindfck Series, you will love this! The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and constantly questioning what was coming next and I love to see that in a book. I wanna be on the edge, I wanna question the characters and their motives and Nocturne did that.
Ara holds a deep and traumatic secret that she's been running from her entire life, but after getting caught in Zagan Devlins sight, in the wrong place and the wrong time, her carefully structured mask starts to slip.
Zagan can't afford to be obsessed with Ara, it's too dangerous for both of them but he can't seem to stay away and is more determined than ever to claim her, whilst digging away at her secret.

IF YOU LOVE

🖤MORALLY BLACK MMC
🖤MAFIA
🖤BADASS FMC
🖤SECRETS
🖤SLEEPY PLAYTIME
🖤STALKER
🖤FLIRTY BANTER

YOU'LL LOVE THIS
Profile Image for Katebooks.
33 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2025
When Vanya came to me and asked me to read her book I had no idea I was going to get obsessed with it. I'm starting to enjoy mafia and I feel like all the books l've picked are amazing.
Nocturne is one of those books taut even after you read it they still lingering in your mind and you just wish you could go back in time and read it for the first time again.
I absolutely love when authors add mystery to their dark romance books, it makes the experience ten times better. My heart I think it was about to combust everytime I saw a twist coming, but everything was so worth and so perfect like it needed to be there.
I have no words for the characters. Zagan and Ara are a couple to remember for sure, and it's just the way it was structured that made it even better.
Profile Image for yournastybookgirl.
40 reviews4 followers
March 12, 2025
she had me already with the tropes of the book but to read it was way more interesting.

I’ve really enjoyed the whole story ! At beginning I really didn’t know where the story will lead me but the more I read the more captivated I was. By the story and how she described her men.. especially one Devil with the name : Devlin Zagan. I tell you this man is my wet dream ❤️‍🔥 and will yours too to be sure !

The whole atmosphere was so exciting and gave me goosepumps , at some points I felt like I would watch a very good thriller 🔥 and pls can we talk about the whole characters ? I love it how everyone is kinda instructed ,so many interesting characters and different people.

At some point it was lil bit dragged for me but that it’s only my personal preference. Everytime a book have over 500 pages I got a lil bit impatient for the end 😂 but good that she really outturned everything near the end so it was easier for me 🖤

I really can’t wait for the second book because I need definitely more scenes between Zagan and Ara ❤️‍🔥😩
Profile Image for A3therOracle.
175 reviews7 followers
March 13, 2025
“𝑀𝒾𝓈𝓈 𝓂𝑒, 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝓈𝒾𝓇𝑒𝓃?”
“𝒩𝑜𝓉 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓃 𝒶 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝑀𝓇.𝒟𝑒𝓋𝓁𝒾𝓃.”

Rating: 5.0 ✨
Spice level: 3.0

Read if you like:
💋 Slowburn
🖤 Stalker Romance
🥀 Mafia
🔥 “Touch her and 💀”

Nocturne by Vanya Nox is a deliciously dark melody of a book! Filled with a tantalizingly slowburn romance, a world of power and desire this book is sure to hook you since page one!

Like a pirate lured to the sea by a siren I was enchanted by this authors beautifully melodic writing. I found myself engrossed in the book and constantly turning the page to see what happened next! Vanya Nox realistically gave the characters weaknesses along with the perfect balance of strengths, and an emotional backstory that tugged on my heart.

I am absolutely obsessed with our two main characters, the banter and characteristics are **chefs kiss** (I have highlighted over 70 lines in this book 👀)

I am so honored to have been apart of her ARC Team for this new release! Thank you once more Vanya for a copy of one of my new favorite books of 2025 🖤🥀
Profile Image for thebeespot72.
1,784 reviews190 followers
March 13, 2025
Don’t be daunted by the number of pages—543–Nocturne is. Author Vanya Nox is building up The Dark Accord Series, a universe of powerful families that have allied to protect others from danger—mafia style. Although they are considered myths, they have been ever-present over lifetimes.

The story's pacing is slower in the beginning but filled with highly descriptive details critical to the plot's nature—this continues for a significant portion of the story. The main characters, Ara, are portrayed as quite strong with a sharp tongue, and Zagan, the morally black MMC, have a slow-burn romance. I liked how the author wrote the action scenes, as they pulled me in and made the story exciting. There are several characters throughout the story as it all comes together.

Nocturne ends on an exciting cliffhanger that will lead to more in The Dark Accord Series. I found It to be a unique and entertaining read.


books2read.com/u/bxxgd6
Profile Image for Marianne.
51 reviews2 followers
March 16, 2025
I loved Ivy’s sass, rebellious spirit, and fearless attitude, though she could be a bit reckless at times! 😂

This dark mafia romance weaves childhood trauma, a dangerously captivating mafia boss, and a found family with a few unhinged members.

With a gripping slow-burn romance, a world of power and desire, and an addictive storyline, this book will have you hooked!

Vanya Nox masterfully balances the characters' strengths and weaknesses, crafting emotional backstories that truly resonate.

I loved the main characters, their banter and personalities are fantastic!
Profile Image for autwenreads.
518 reviews21 followers
March 16, 2025
This book completely took me by surprise!

When Vanya reached out, I didn't know what to expect, but Nocturne had me hooked. The moment I started, I couldn't put it down, and even after finishing, I kept thinking about everything that happened.

I loved the mix of dark romance and mystery— it made everything even more intense. Zagan and Ara's chemistry was fire, and just when I thought I had things figured out, the twists kept me on my toes. Every moment felt necessary.

Huge thanks to Vanya for this ARC—I can't wait for everyone to experience this book!
Profile Image for Iuliana CALINI.
30 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2025
It is exactly what needs to be in order to read dark romance. Can't wait for the next book. Congrats on your first book Vanya Nox. You aced it with this one.
Profile Image for Hera.
55 reviews5 followers
July 17, 2025
You know a book was good when the reader is angry when it ends on a cliffhanger.
V, I need the book two yesterday. Not tomorrow, not today. I need it yesterday

Okay, so now that I’ve let out my angry, rage-induced vomit, let’s get to the actual review or should I say, the dissertation.

Nocturne by Vanya Nox is set in a gritty mafia backdrop and follows Ara and Zagan in a story that is so twisted, so morally grey, and so heavy with tension, it feels like you’re constantly walking the edge of a knife, waiting for it to draw blood. It’s about how fate shoves two wrong people into each other’s path and somehow, they just become right. But of course, they can’t actually be together, because angst. Because consequences. Because there is always a line and one of them is always hovering too close to it.

Ara is this beautifully brilliant woman in STEM who just wants to cure a disease that has destroyed so many lives. She’s tough, not because she wants to be, but because life has demanded it from her. She’s seen horrors, and while she tries not to let them define her, they’ve shaped her into someone who walks the world in armor. And Zagan? He sees through it in a heartbeat. From the very first moment they meet, he knows she’s hiding pain, that her sharp tongue and cold front are just defenses, and he doesn’t push her to let them down, he just waits, watches, and meets her where she is. That part? Beautiful. That understanding? Chef’s kiss.

Now, Zagan. This man is a walking, brooding mystery box. He’s ruthless, unreadable, emotionally constipated in the most painfully attractive way. And let me just say, he would genuinely rather get shot in the hand than actually express what he’s feeling, if you know, you know. That was honestly one of my favorite things about his character. The way he’s all steel and silence, and yet somehow every action screams what he can’t say out loud. That kind of restraint? That kind of quiet rage and devotion? Yeah, I’m feral. He’s a man of very few words, but when he does speak, it matters.

Now, let’s talk about her bond with Cas. Oh my heart. That little boy is such a gem, and Ara’s deal with him, the way she connects with him and protects him, it melted me. He’s smart, he’s soft, and he deserves the whole damn universe. His presence added so much heart to the book. And Ara’s dynamic with Ivy? Chaotic best friend energy. I loved how they always seemed to find trouble together, and honestly, I relate, I am that friend. I have my own Ivy and now I get why we do half the stuff we do. It’s the energy, the unspoken chaos pact.

The only part I felt a bit iffy about was the lack of depth in her relationship with her sister. I wanted more, maybe a little closure, but I understand that secrets needed to stay buried and that made things strained and distant. Still, I wish we’d gotten more context there.

Now, on the mafia front, I have to say, while Zagan is known as this ruthless, terrifying figure in the underworld, I didn’t see much of that in action. I wanted more of that mafia life, not just when he was saving Ara from yet another mess. Like, give me the blood, the betrayal, the tension of a power struggle. I know it’s the first book and it’s laying foundations, but still, I want details. I want to see why everyone fears him, not just be told he’s scary. The same way Ara’s life as a professor is so beautifully and thoroughly written, I want Zagan’s world to have that kind of vividness in the next books.

Speaking of the next books, I know they’re going to be amazing, but I need them now. Immediately. No waiting. No patience.

Let’s move on to my favorite character, the scene-stealer of the entire book, Eero. Eero is hands down the best surprise of this book. His banter, his energy, his chaotic softie-meets-deadly vibe had me hooked. He’s the kind of character who could burn a building down while telling you a joke and making you laugh through it. The way he calls her sweetheart with that effortless charm? I swooned. Hard. He brings this levity to the otherwise intense and brooding narrative, and I honestly think everyone needs an Eero in their life.

And don’t even get me started on the Nico-Eero chaos. Nico is the quieter, more reserved one, and I haven’t gotten to see him fully yet, but Eero dragging him into everything? Iconic behavior. My favorite scene was the Cass welcome party where Eero showed up with Nico and brought every possible gift imaginable because he didn’t know what was appropriate. Like, that right there is character gold. He didn’t just show up, he arrived, and he stole the scene effortlessly.

All in all, I would give Nocturne a solid 4.25, maybe even 4.5 stars. It gripped me, broke me, then made me laugh mid-breakdown. The writing is passionate, and V pours her soul into every sentence. You can tell she cares deeply about her characters, about her story, and about the people who read her work. I feel genuinely lucky to have stumbled onto this book, and even luckier that she shares space with her readers in real time. That connection? That matters.

So yes, I’m mad about the cliffhanger, but also, thank you for making me feel this feral about fictional people.
I am so ready for what comes next.
Profile Image for gena_bookish_reviews.
592 reviews36 followers
April 22, 2025
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK, i can’t believe it isn't more hyped. The tension build up, the banter, bickering, jealousy and the slow burn angst was so THRILLING. It was impossible to put this book down. You know it’s an amazing book when you have the urge to read book 2 immediately.

WELL JOKES ON ME BC BOOK 2 ISN'T RELEASED YET. LIKE FUCK ME. 🥲

★ 𝘐 𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘮 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦; 𝘯𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘴, 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵. 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦, 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘸𝘯. ★

the jealousy scenes when i tell you ZAGAN WAS FIGHTING FOR HIS LIFE, THEY WERE TOP TIER SCENES >>>

the romantic development between Ara and Zagan was delivered perfectly. the buildup was so natural and not rushed. Like this book was the definition of SLOW BURN. That's why there's not actual sex in this book but there's buildup to it. There's also some kinks like somnophilia.. like Zagan literally eats her out while she sleeps.. 👀 PLSSS- THIS HAD ME GIGGLING 🤭

This scene alone had me screaming into my pillow, i was losing my mind!! i want this man for myself.

★ "𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺.” 𝘐 𝘧𝘶𝘮𝘦.
"𝘕𝘰," 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥. "𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯.” ★

knees weak, head spinning, butterflies in my stomach.

★ “𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦? 𝘏𝘦’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵. 𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘱. 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩.”
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘴.”
“𝘈𝘴𝘬 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘴 𝘐 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵.” ★

🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂:

🖤 Mafia romance
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Morally black MMC
🖤 Touch her and die
🖤 Obsessive/Possessive MMC
🖤 Feisty FMC
🖤 Secret society
🖤 Cliffhanger
Profile Image for arpita♡.
157 reviews22 followers
March 21, 2025
I'm a sucker for dark mafia romance so when Vanya introduced her book to me, I had to read it😮‍💨 and oh my god, it shocked me! First of all, the writing?? Let's be honest, writing matters a lot to like a book, and Vanya you aced it!! I love your writing babe💕

And the way it started, with full mysterious vibes, and the way it progressed, still mysterious but with the touch of chemistry between the characters 🤌🏻 *chef's kiss*
Zagan, the MMC is the most feared and powerful mafia boss of the city and our sweet girl Ara is a mere scientist BUT is she really just a sweet simple scientist?? Nope, our girl bears a secret more heavy than anyone can imagine. They meet in a fateful event when Ara and her friend find themselves at the mercy of Zagan and his men. And in panic Ara shoots him😭 but what he does?? He tells her to say his name- i mean- MAN?? Her presence demands his attention so much that he basically becomes her stalker. Man takes all of her science classes 😂 rest of the story you read, I'm not giving anymore spoilers 😙

I love the side characters too! I love when big bad mafia men show their soft sides in dark romance. Love the brewing friendships between Zagan's men and Ara. Cas, the sweet lil cutie pie 😭 and I'm looking forward to Ivy and Iblis🌚
Profile Image for Nightxstar .
8 reviews
April 14, 2025
Started it last night and couldn't put it down. The story is gripping and (unfortunately for my curious mind) ends on a cliffhanger. The tension and the pull between the MCs is just *whew* *chef's kiss*🤌🤌Impatiently waiting for book 2🙂‍↕️
Profile Image for Carolyn Johnson .
87 reviews1 follower
January 3, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
The story is very intriguing and caught my attention. There is so much detail and you really get caught up with the characters.
Zagan gives all the morally gray vibes and I need more of him.
Ara is so strong and selfless and I cant wait to see how this ends.

I will say this is a very slow burn with lots of story building.
81 reviews
March 23, 2025
"Villains like us don’t love, darling. We obsess. And anything that dares touch our obsession? We bury it.”

DR ARA SINCLAIR, she has a dark past which she escapes and now she has settled in a new city as a university professor. This woman is soo strong 😭 the things she went through in the past but still standing strong is so admirable. You will love her thoughts, the way she describes her feelings about any situation. Well our woman is delusional too because she thinks the main lead won't search her 😂 sometimes funny too because she left her sandwich for Zagan while he was stalking her (because she felt bad okay? Don't judge my girl she innocent you would too if you see a man like Zagan Devlin 🛐🥵) ALSSOOO MY WOMAN IS INTELLIGENT AF✋🏻


ZAGAN DEVLIN, the man you are 😭✋🏻 no one will ever ever make me feel this man has done something wrong, questionable things for his woman? Yes! But to her? Hell no. 💕 My man has sassiness inside him 😂 (iykyk) The way he got obsessed with her from the moment they first met was soo HOTTTT. If I more about it I might as well end up giving you spoiler 🥹

ZAGAN and ARA's chemistry is evrything 😭 their first meet, her leaving food for him while he was stalking her, him asking for kiss for helping her, everything about these two was HOTTTT af. 🥵

Now about the side characters: Zagan's men who are supposed to be dangerous criminals? They're are cuties at heart (touch their people they won't hesitate to slit your throat 💕) Cas, her adopted son, is also a cutie, they're are cute scenes of cas and Zagan, cas with Zagan's men 🤌🏻

ALL IN ALL, GO READ THE BOOK. (OR ELSE NOTHING I'LL JUST HAUNT YOUR SOUL)
Profile Image for Pompi - pom.preads.
51 reviews
September 30, 2025
when a author creates a fictional universe for their mafia story you know you are in for a ride.

vanya nox's vision for this story was direct, a strong plot, an well executed storyline and characters that knows what they are doing.
not a single page or characters here made me think that - nah, it's not working out- that's how beautifully written story with an amazing pace Nocturne is.

Zagan Devlin, our MMC here, is a man you would worship with every might. his devotion towards his people and the care that comes with arrogance towards our FMC, Ara, will make you do nothing but love him with everything that you have. he is strong, he is mighty, he is powerful, respected, admired and a man that kneel for his woman.

Ara Sinclair, our FMC, is a strong - willed, meticulously maintained woman who would do anything for her people. she has her own past, her own demons , demons that she would anything to keep at bay to never let it touch her loved ones.

together they are an explosion, a beautiful disaster. everything about them together is what you would love to read. the tension, the raw primal need, the slow burn that comes with it. absolutely beautiful.

every character in this book is the defination of well written characters. characters you will love and grow to remember them at times.

Nocturne is an absolute powerhouse of a story that will keep you at the edge of your seat and makes you do nothing but read that damn book.
94 reviews2 followers
April 10, 2025
My Unapologetic Descent into Darkness: A "Nocturne" Confession 🖤
Let's be brutally honest. My therapist would have a field day with my feelings about this book. Every rational part of me screams "Danger! Toxic! Run!" And yet… here I stand, a devoted soldier on the battlefield of Zagan and Ara's chaotic love, ready to defend their messy, morally ambiguous connection to the death. Why? Because "Nocturne" dives headfirst into the beautifully broken, and I'm drowning in the depths.
Zagan isn't your typical brooding hero. He's a walking embodiment of every warning label imaginable. He doesn't whisper sweet nothings; he commands. He doesn't woo; he conquers. He's a force of raw power, a relentless tide that sweeps everything in its path. And despite (or perhaps because of) the inherent danger, there's an undeniable, visceral pull that's frankly unsettling.
Ara, poor Ara. She's the one who should be throwing holy water and running for the hills. She fights him, resists him, embodies the very antithesis of his darkness. But the more she pushes back, the tighter the invisible chains of their connection become, like two celestial bodies locked in a destructive orbit. It's a dance of hate and hunger, a desperate push and pull where escape feels like a forgotten dream.
Their love story isn't a fairytale; it's a battlefield. It's not built on gentle affection; it's forged in the crucible of obsession and need. It's a potent, dangerous elixir that should repulse, yet somehow becomes the very air they breathe. It's wrong, it's twisted, and yet… it's utterly, irrevocably captivating.
If you're tired of sanitized romance and crave a story that revels in the shadows, a love that's a brutal, all-consuming war, then "Nocturne" is your next dark obsession. Consider this my unwavering endorsement. Meet me on this perilous peak; we'll defend this gloriously toxic love together.
Profile Image for Megha.
50 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2025
🌟 4.3/5
🌶 1.5/5

They say don't judge a book by its
cover, but i? I judge it by the
characters' names-and the moment I
read Zagan (The MMC names ), oh god
I just knew he is gonna be my new book boyfriend 🥰🎀. His name, his aura, his
presence, everything about him clicked
instantly. And let me tell you, he did
not disappoint.

At first, the pacing felt a little slow,
and I couldn't wrap my head around
why the MMC was so intensely drawn
to the MFC right from the start. But
then, that final 10% hit, and suddenly
everything made sense. The revelations, the emotions, the sheer
brilliance of it all. It was like watching
puzzle pieces snap into place, and I
was left in shocked . And let's not
even talk about the last 20% 😭.
Everything......gave me chiils i am not
kidding trust me . It was heartbreaking
and traumatic and triggering sort of
but i couldn't stop reading, I JUST
COULDN'T.


Now that I know this is going to be a
series, the slower start makes
complete sense. By the time I reached
90%, I didn't want the book to end.

Vanya Nox has crafted something
special with this debut, and if she
nails the pacing in the next book? It's
going to be legendary. Because one
thing is clear, Zagan is gonna burn
down the world if anything happens to his girl. And honestly? I can't wait to witness the fire.

OH AND IT DIDNT HAVE SMUT 😭( just
one scene okay 👉👈 i cant believe i
read a dark romance with no smut
because They have just kissed coz
obviously Just because he is morally
gray , didn't mean he has to force her
to do anything unwillingly which ofc
he didn't and that's what i adored
about this book
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