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Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts
A town bound by magic. A love bound by blood. A choice that could damn them both.
Mirafail is a town built on beauty, tradition, and secrets. Maeve Keeling has always believed in its charm, until people begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to home. As whispers spread and fear takes hold, Maeve is drawn into a mystery that refuses to stay buried.
Then Dante Trevil arrives.
Refined, distant, and dangerously alluring, Dante awakens a desire Maeve can’t ignore. Beneath his careful control lies a power tied to Mirafail’s fate, and a bond to an immortal master he cannot easily break.
Falling for him could be her greatest mistake… or her only chance to save the town.
Mirafail’s prosperity was forged through rare wine and an ancient bargain, one set to be fulfilled at the annual masquerade. If Maeve can’t unravel the spell in time, the town will be lost. If Dante dares to defy the blood bond that enslaves him, love may demand the ultimate sacrifice.
In Mirafail, love is dangerous, desire is a risk, and some kisses are worth dying for.
A dark gothic romance inspired by The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this haunting tale is perfect for fans of Gothikana by RuNyx and Eve Silver’s Dark Gothic series.
One-click now and become ensnared in forbidden love, monstrous devotion, and vampires who offer ruin with a kiss.
Mirafail is a town built on beauty, tradition, and secrets. Maeve Keeling has always believed in its charm, until people begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to home. As whispers spread and fear takes hold, Maeve is drawn into a mystery that refuses to stay buried.
Then Dante Trevil arrives.
Refined, distant, and dangerously alluring, Dante awakens a desire Maeve can’t ignore. Beneath his careful control lies a power tied to Mirafail’s fate, and a bond to an immortal master he cannot easily break.
Falling for him could be her greatest mistake… or her only chance to save the town.
Mirafail’s prosperity was forged through rare wine and an ancient bargain, one set to be fulfilled at the annual masquerade. If Maeve can’t unravel the spell in time, the town will be lost. If Dante dares to defy the blood bond that enslaves him, love may demand the ultimate sacrifice.
In Mirafail, love is dangerous, desire is a risk, and some kisses are worth dying for.
A dark gothic romance inspired by The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this haunting tale is perfect for fans of Gothikana by RuNyx and Eve Silver’s Dark Gothic series.
One-click now and become ensnared in forbidden love, monstrous devotion, and vampires who offer ruin with a kiss.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
About the author
Sara Sines
8 books57 followersSara Sines is the pen name for a Best Selling - Urban Fantasy author who may (or not) be revealed at a later time.
Sara writes romance - fantasy romance, sci-fi romance, contemporary romance, you get it (wink, wink). She might even delve into monster romance at some point in the future.
To find out about special edition hardcovers and new releases, check out her website at
https://chapters-and-charms.com/
Sara writes romance - fantasy romance, sci-fi romance, contemporary romance, you get it (wink, wink). She might even delve into monster romance at some point in the future.
To find out about special edition hardcovers and new releases, check out her website at
https://chapters-and-charms.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 4, 2026
Do you love a good Gothic drama? Moody with a good dose of completely unhinged but like in the most romantic way [ofc]? If so, please stop what you are doing and give this book a read. Its been quite some time since the last time I read a good Gothic romance. Honestly, It was probably Nocticadia by Keri Lake, but this book was like coming home to my moody, dark but cozy little heart's needs. Im not going to really give anything away about this book, as I firmly believe
I was captivated, and I absolutely need more immediately. This book is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series which is inspired by Edgar Allen Poe....So I was hooked from the beginning as anything Poe related/inspired is an immediate read for me.
I was captivated, and I absolutely need more immediately. This book is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series which is inspired by Edgar Allen Poe....So I was hooked from the beginning as anything Poe related/inspired is an immediate read for me.
February 3, 2026
This book is pure gothic drama in the best way. Mirafail’s secrets, Maeve’s grit, and Dante being a velvet‑wrapped menace? I inhaled it. Moody, romantic, and just the right amount of unhinged. Loved every second.
February 7, 2026
I received a free ARC copy and am sharing my honest thoughts.
A Vivid, Fast-Paced Gothic with a Fresh Twist on Vampire Lore
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts by Sara Sines is a gothic paranormal romance set in a small town overshadowed by secrets, power, and an ominous masquerade. When Maeve becomes entangled with the mysterious Dante, she is drawn into a dark world where vampires exist, control is dangerous, and choice matters more than immortality.🏰🩸
Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this story blends atmospheric horror with romance, exploring themes of vengeance, restraint, and survival. With fast pacing, accessible prose, and a moody gothic setting, the novel offers a fresh take on vampire lore while leading readers toward a haunting and emotional conclusion.
The novel is a lush, haunting reimagining of Poe’s most claustrophobic nightmares. Sines effectively balances the slow-burn tension between Maeve and Dante with the hidden threat of a town unknowingly drinking in its own ruin.
Dante isn't your typical "alpha" vampire; he earns his place through patience and respect, making the payoff of their connection feel earned rather than inevitable.
Maeve is a relatable and engaging protagonist whose reactions felt grounded and easy to root for. However, while I appreciated the care put into their relationship, the emotional connection didn't fully grip me.
On the villainous side, Allard Denholm felt a little underdeveloped. He functions as the primary catalyst—the one rolling the dice for our main characters—but I found myself wishing for more complexity to match the weight of his actions.
The writing style is simple and vivid, making the book a fast-paced read. The atmosphere is one of its strongest elements—dark, moody, and clearly inspired by classic gothic horror. I especially appreciated the slight twist on traditional vampire blood rules, which felt fresh and thoughtfully done.
A Vivid, Fast-Paced Gothic with a Fresh Twist on Vampire Lore
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts by Sara Sines is a gothic paranormal romance set in a small town overshadowed by secrets, power, and an ominous masquerade. When Maeve becomes entangled with the mysterious Dante, she is drawn into a dark world where vampires exist, control is dangerous, and choice matters more than immortality.🏰🩸
Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this story blends atmospheric horror with romance, exploring themes of vengeance, restraint, and survival. With fast pacing, accessible prose, and a moody gothic setting, the novel offers a fresh take on vampire lore while leading readers toward a haunting and emotional conclusion.
The novel is a lush, haunting reimagining of Poe’s most claustrophobic nightmares. Sines effectively balances the slow-burn tension between Maeve and Dante with the hidden threat of a town unknowingly drinking in its own ruin.
Dante isn't your typical "alpha" vampire; he earns his place through patience and respect, making the payoff of their connection feel earned rather than inevitable.
Maeve is a relatable and engaging protagonist whose reactions felt grounded and easy to root for. However, while I appreciated the care put into their relationship, the emotional connection didn't fully grip me.
On the villainous side, Allard Denholm felt a little underdeveloped. He functions as the primary catalyst—the one rolling the dice for our main characters—but I found myself wishing for more complexity to match the weight of his actions.
The writing style is simple and vivid, making the book a fast-paced read. The atmosphere is one of its strongest elements—dark, moody, and clearly inspired by classic gothic horror. I especially appreciated the slight twist on traditional vampire blood rules, which felt fresh and thoughtfully done.
October 25, 2025
5/5* NOW.
I finished the second rounds of edits on this little gem in December, and OH WOW.
Ms. Sines came through and hit the Byronic Hero trope in Gothic Romance out of the park. I'm loving Dante as a new book boyfriend these days. He's dark, but still a cinnamon roll for her alone. I can't wait for everyone to experience this stand-alone vampire romantasy novel.
***
Finished a dev edit on this one. It's a solid romance that I'd categorize as steamy-sweet. There's a lot of darkness outside the relationship, but the couple itself is super cute.
I will say..... I can't wait to see the revisions Ms. Sines makes! She has a way of drawing readers through her pages. I'm certain I'll be upping this rating once it's all said and done.
I finished the second rounds of edits on this little gem in December, and OH WOW.
Ms. Sines came through and hit the Byronic Hero trope in Gothic Romance out of the park. I'm loving Dante as a new book boyfriend these days. He's dark, but still a cinnamon roll for her alone. I can't wait for everyone to experience this stand-alone vampire romantasy novel.
***
Finished a dev edit on this one. It's a solid romance that I'd categorize as steamy-sweet. There's a lot of darkness outside the relationship, but the couple itself is super cute.
I will say..... I can't wait to see the revisions Ms. Sines makes! She has a way of drawing readers through her pages. I'm certain I'll be upping this rating once it's all said and done.
January 19, 2026
I wasn’t sure what to think when I found out this book involved vampires, but holy crap it was good. High school me and her vampire obsession happy danced. Dante may be one of my new favorite MMC’s. Allard is disgusting, him and the thralls make me legitimately nauseous, and what Dante and his friends did to save Lucy and the town was amazing. I also adore Maeve and her whole family. The ending of this book was perfect. I’d love a sequel with Kale and Lucy.
Review of advance copy
I just love Sara's writing. I've been a fan of her for awhile now. She has an excellent way of storytelling and her characters are full of depth. Maeve and Dante had great chemistry. I loved their relationship. Dante was a swoony book boyfriend of our shy dark romance loving girl's dreams.
February 4, 2026
A town bound by magic. A love bound by blood. A choice that could damn them both.
Mirafail is a town built on beauty, tradition, and secrets. Maeve Keeling has always believed in its charm, until people begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to home. As whispers spread and fear takes hold, Maeve is drawn into a mystery that refuses to stay buried.
Then Dante Trevil arrives.
Refined, distant, and dangerously alluring, Dante awakens a desire Maeve can’t ignore. Beneath his careful control lies a power tied to Mirafail’s fate, and a bond to an immortal master he cannot easily break.
Falling for him could be her greatest mistake… or her only chance to save the town.
Mirafail’s prosperity was forged through rare wine and an ancient bargain, one set to be fulfilled at the annual masquerade. If Maeve can’t unravel the spell in time, the town will be lost. If Dante dares to defy the blood bond that enslaves him, love may demand the ultimate sacrifice.
In Mirafail, love is dangerous, desire is a risk, and some kisses are worth dying for.
A dark gothic romance inspired by The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this haunting tale is perfect for fans of Gothikana by RuNyx and Eve Silver’s Dark Gothic series.
One-click now and become ensnared in forbidden love, monstrous devotion, and vampires who offer ruin with a kiss.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Magic, Tradition, Secrets, Disappearance, Suspicion, Whispers Spread, Fear, Mystery, Refined/Distant/Dangerously Alluring MMC, Power tied to FMCs Fate, Bonds, Immortal Master, Greatest Mistake, Only Hope, Prosperity, Rare Wine, Ancient Bargain, Annual Masquerade, Spells, Defy Blood Bonds, Ultimate Sacrifices, Love can be Dangerous, Desire is a Risk, Kisses that are Worth Dying For, Gothic Romance, Haunting Tale, Forbidden Love, Monstrous Devotion, Vampires, Paranormal, Fantasy, Small Town,
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is the 1st Part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Duet by Sara Sines.
That opening line…” What if desire were the true sin?” that line alone really gets you thinking. That line makes you think about what the desire is? Like… Do I like “bad boys” in my books? Of course I do, but does that qualify as a desire or just a delight for reading? But, let me set aside this philosophising, I will admit that this book got me thinking several times and I will be honest and say that I just lapped up every moment of this book like a dying woman.
There are three characters I am going to start by introducing you to. Make it a bit easier for you to understand who is who in this story.
Maeve Keeling: our lovely and intelligent FMC. She’s also the small town’s sommelier.
Dante Trevil: is our intriguing MMC. He is a business owner and a vampire, oh and he’s owned by his sire.
Our Villain: This is an old vampire who wants the medieval ages back, a time when he could eat all the humans his heart could ever desire.
From the first moment that I met Maeve she had me laughing, and then with the flip of a switch she had me wanting to pull her into a hug. Sara did such a stunning job in capturing Maeve’s personality perfectly. The perfect small-town girl, one who is living a VERY dull, simple unadventurous life, and like many of us, Maeve lives through the lives of the characters in the books that she reads.
For Maeve, those dreams are a bit risqué, especially for this prudish town, but like all of us, Maeve is lucky that her dreams are private. Dreams Maeve would never think of making in a reality. Maeve always thought she was the “ugly duckling” in her family, sure her family loved her, but she was always the awkward one socially, she couldn’t hide her insecurities, and those insecurities are deeply ingrained; and she doesn’t think she’s pretty enough, not clever enough, not feminine enough. And then suddenly one day a stranger roll into town. This stranger who sees Maeve, acknowledges her, listens to her, and Maeve finds her imagination going wild over that stranger who made her feel so much suddenly.
The stranger just happens to be Dante and he IS dangerous. He’s a vampire. And I appreciate how diplomatically and realistically Sara portrayed Maeve and all her feelings and opened Maeve up allowing us to see HER completely. At the same time, Maeve’s inner radar is beeping frantically, Maeve feels unsettled, and she has this “I want him but I want to run from him” feeling.
Right from the start I fell in love with Dante, he was so different from his sire in his mannerisms, his kindness, and his aspirations.
Allard is egesta that Dante can’t get rid of, Allard has him under his control completely, his thoughts, his actions everything. But Allard can’t dictate all the disgust and loathing that Dante felt for him.
I absolutely loved the effect that Maeve had on Dante, it was amazingly hot and just delicious! The more restraint Dante imposed on himself that I more I loved him and the more I respected him. But you know that he is feeling something that he hasn’t felt for eons. And then Dante had this thought “If obsession had a flavor, this was it." And you know in that moment that he desires Maeve more then anything. And it’s not just her blood that he desires. And boy, did I ever feel for him.
Dante’s desire to consume Maeve nearly consumed him and yet he never once gave in, and then this thought happened…” for the first time in longer than I could remember, I chose desire over hunger."
Dante’s number one goal is to stop Allard, and without those repressions on him, sets into motion a deadly plan and oh my god, it got my heart pumping hard! I just loved how intense Sara got my pulse racing, and wow, she pushed the pacing and the tension and adrenaline to a whole new level.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts. Sara did such an amazing job, she plucked all the right cello stings, and honestly, I think she snapped most of them in the process! The way that Sara managed to create this story, it was simply enthralling and I just dove right into it and I couldn’t stop reading till I finished the last page.
Here’s the thing, it wasn’t only Maeve and Dante who managed to weasel their way into my heart. It was the entire cast of characters, of course with the exception of Allard, at this point there was just no way that he could ever worm his way in. The rest of the cast though supported this intriguing read and added this interesting layer and gave it even more depth than it already had. I have to say that Maeve’s dad is one super cool and one very interesting character. You can tell just how much he loves and adores Maeve. He is the perfect, supportive, loving and never judgemental father. Honestly, he’s the kind of father that I wish I had and really long for. There was one moment he had about Dante, but thankfully he managed to get over it.
Markus and Kale who are Dante’s business partners and friends are your atypical vampires and they were not only 100% behind Dante, they supported him no matter what. And I loved how they loved Dante no matter what and Dante had their affection, loyalty, and support and that was as stark and as bright as the sunshine.
At the heart of this story, I found that it followed the “morality” of the vampires, and honestly, this was a fresh new take on that and a fresh new take on vampires themselves. Sara brough all the action, angst, and tension to a cacophonous point, this is a full well-rounded tale full of wants, needs, restraint and contains the perfect love story woven in. It is masterfully dark, warming, and sensationally done.
I loved how this novel is a concept that’s been inspired by Edger Allen Poe, and honestly as soon as I heard that I have to admit that I was positively and wholeheartedly sold on it all. This includes the vampires that Sara added into the mix and I can honestly say that this made for such a wonderful duo. I can say that I honestly say that this novel was based on both “The Masque of the Red Death” and “The Cask of Amontillado.”
I found that even with the little spice that is in this book, the spice that is in this book adds to the overall story rather than detracting from it. I found that the spice in this book balanced the overall storyline perfectly.
One last note. And this is for anyone who is a fan of Edgar Allan Pie inspired books. This is the 5th book of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series. This is a collection of 12 standalone novels that have been inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe.
I highly recommend this book and I will be going back and reading the rest of this series as I am a fan of Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to the 2nd part of this book as I greatly enjoyed this 1st part.
A few of my favorite quotes from this book are:
“… I’d open a bottle of wine and let it bleed into a glass, as dark and defiant as my mood.”
“Focus on the things you can accomplish, dumbass”
“That little snack is way tougher than any of you give her credit for.”
“I kissed her again, not the way monsters claim prey, but the way a man worships what he knows he doesn’t deserve.”
"I can't be your knight in shining armour, Maeve. I'm the darkness that wants to consume you"
Mirafail is a town built on beauty, tradition, and secrets. Maeve Keeling has always believed in its charm, until people begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to home. As whispers spread and fear takes hold, Maeve is drawn into a mystery that refuses to stay buried.
Then Dante Trevil arrives.
Refined, distant, and dangerously alluring, Dante awakens a desire Maeve can’t ignore. Beneath his careful control lies a power tied to Mirafail’s fate, and a bond to an immortal master he cannot easily break.
Falling for him could be her greatest mistake… or her only chance to save the town.
Mirafail’s prosperity was forged through rare wine and an ancient bargain, one set to be fulfilled at the annual masquerade. If Maeve can’t unravel the spell in time, the town will be lost. If Dante dares to defy the blood bond that enslaves him, love may demand the ultimate sacrifice.
In Mirafail, love is dangerous, desire is a risk, and some kisses are worth dying for.
A dark gothic romance inspired by The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death, this haunting tale is perfect for fans of Gothikana by RuNyx and Eve Silver’s Dark Gothic series.
One-click now and become ensnared in forbidden love, monstrous devotion, and vampires who offer ruin with a kiss.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Magic, Tradition, Secrets, Disappearance, Suspicion, Whispers Spread, Fear, Mystery, Refined/Distant/Dangerously Alluring MMC, Power tied to FMCs Fate, Bonds, Immortal Master, Greatest Mistake, Only Hope, Prosperity, Rare Wine, Ancient Bargain, Annual Masquerade, Spells, Defy Blood Bonds, Ultimate Sacrifices, Love can be Dangerous, Desire is a Risk, Kisses that are Worth Dying For, Gothic Romance, Haunting Tale, Forbidden Love, Monstrous Devotion, Vampires, Paranormal, Fantasy, Small Town,
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is the 1st Part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Duet by Sara Sines.
That opening line…” What if desire were the true sin?” that line alone really gets you thinking. That line makes you think about what the desire is? Like… Do I like “bad boys” in my books? Of course I do, but does that qualify as a desire or just a delight for reading? But, let me set aside this philosophising, I will admit that this book got me thinking several times and I will be honest and say that I just lapped up every moment of this book like a dying woman.
There are three characters I am going to start by introducing you to. Make it a bit easier for you to understand who is who in this story.
Maeve Keeling: our lovely and intelligent FMC. She’s also the small town’s sommelier.
Dante Trevil: is our intriguing MMC. He is a business owner and a vampire, oh and he’s owned by his sire.
Our Villain: This is an old vampire who wants the medieval ages back, a time when he could eat all the humans his heart could ever desire.
From the first moment that I met Maeve she had me laughing, and then with the flip of a switch she had me wanting to pull her into a hug. Sara did such a stunning job in capturing Maeve’s personality perfectly. The perfect small-town girl, one who is living a VERY dull, simple unadventurous life, and like many of us, Maeve lives through the lives of the characters in the books that she reads.
For Maeve, those dreams are a bit risqué, especially for this prudish town, but like all of us, Maeve is lucky that her dreams are private. Dreams Maeve would never think of making in a reality. Maeve always thought she was the “ugly duckling” in her family, sure her family loved her, but she was always the awkward one socially, she couldn’t hide her insecurities, and those insecurities are deeply ingrained; and she doesn’t think she’s pretty enough, not clever enough, not feminine enough. And then suddenly one day a stranger roll into town. This stranger who sees Maeve, acknowledges her, listens to her, and Maeve finds her imagination going wild over that stranger who made her feel so much suddenly.
The stranger just happens to be Dante and he IS dangerous. He’s a vampire. And I appreciate how diplomatically and realistically Sara portrayed Maeve and all her feelings and opened Maeve up allowing us to see HER completely. At the same time, Maeve’s inner radar is beeping frantically, Maeve feels unsettled, and she has this “I want him but I want to run from him” feeling.
Right from the start I fell in love with Dante, he was so different from his sire in his mannerisms, his kindness, and his aspirations.
Allard is egesta that Dante can’t get rid of, Allard has him under his control completely, his thoughts, his actions everything. But Allard can’t dictate all the disgust and loathing that Dante felt for him.
I absolutely loved the effect that Maeve had on Dante, it was amazingly hot and just delicious! The more restraint Dante imposed on himself that I more I loved him and the more I respected him. But you know that he is feeling something that he hasn’t felt for eons. And then Dante had this thought “If obsession had a flavor, this was it." And you know in that moment that he desires Maeve more then anything. And it’s not just her blood that he desires. And boy, did I ever feel for him.
Dante’s desire to consume Maeve nearly consumed him and yet he never once gave in, and then this thought happened…” for the first time in longer than I could remember, I chose desire over hunger."
Dante’s number one goal is to stop Allard, and without those repressions on him, sets into motion a deadly plan and oh my god, it got my heart pumping hard! I just loved how intense Sara got my pulse racing, and wow, she pushed the pacing and the tension and adrenaline to a whole new level.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts. Sara did such an amazing job, she plucked all the right cello stings, and honestly, I think she snapped most of them in the process! The way that Sara managed to create this story, it was simply enthralling and I just dove right into it and I couldn’t stop reading till I finished the last page.
Here’s the thing, it wasn’t only Maeve and Dante who managed to weasel their way into my heart. It was the entire cast of characters, of course with the exception of Allard, at this point there was just no way that he could ever worm his way in. The rest of the cast though supported this intriguing read and added this interesting layer and gave it even more depth than it already had. I have to say that Maeve’s dad is one super cool and one very interesting character. You can tell just how much he loves and adores Maeve. He is the perfect, supportive, loving and never judgemental father. Honestly, he’s the kind of father that I wish I had and really long for. There was one moment he had about Dante, but thankfully he managed to get over it.
Markus and Kale who are Dante’s business partners and friends are your atypical vampires and they were not only 100% behind Dante, they supported him no matter what. And I loved how they loved Dante no matter what and Dante had their affection, loyalty, and support and that was as stark and as bright as the sunshine.
At the heart of this story, I found that it followed the “morality” of the vampires, and honestly, this was a fresh new take on that and a fresh new take on vampires themselves. Sara brough all the action, angst, and tension to a cacophonous point, this is a full well-rounded tale full of wants, needs, restraint and contains the perfect love story woven in. It is masterfully dark, warming, and sensationally done.
I loved how this novel is a concept that’s been inspired by Edger Allen Poe, and honestly as soon as I heard that I have to admit that I was positively and wholeheartedly sold on it all. This includes the vampires that Sara added into the mix and I can honestly say that this made for such a wonderful duo. I can say that I honestly say that this novel was based on both “The Masque of the Red Death” and “The Cask of Amontillado.”
I found that even with the little spice that is in this book, the spice that is in this book adds to the overall story rather than detracting from it. I found that the spice in this book balanced the overall storyline perfectly.
One last note. And this is for anyone who is a fan of Edgar Allan Pie inspired books. This is the 5th book of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series. This is a collection of 12 standalone novels that have been inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe.
I highly recommend this book and I will be going back and reading the rest of this series as I am a fan of Edgar Allan Poe. I am looking forward to the 2nd part of this book as I greatly enjoyed this 1st part.
A few of my favorite quotes from this book are:
“… I’d open a bottle of wine and let it bleed into a glass, as dark and defiant as my mood.”
“Focus on the things you can accomplish, dumbass”
“That little snack is way tougher than any of you give her credit for.”
“I kissed her again, not the way monsters claim prey, but the way a man worships what he knows he doesn’t deserve.”
"I can't be your knight in shining armour, Maeve. I'm the darkness that wants to consume you"
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well this got me thinking immediately! That opening line... how cool....“What if desire were the true sin?” Ok....it IS a character in a book, listening to an audio of a book, but still... Is it a sin to desire? Hmmm....the jury is out there, depends on WHAT the desire is! Do I like the "bad boys?" Absolutely! But enough of philosophising, this book set me straight, and I lapped it up like a thirsty dog!
Maeve had me giggling almost the minute I met her, then switched to wanting to hug her the next. This author captured her personality exemplary. A small town girl, living a VERY dull, unexciting life, lives through the characters in the books she reads. Sound familiar? 😛 Well... those dreams are a bit... risqué for the prudish town, but hey, it doesn't stop her thoughts and dreams. Dreams she would ever think of making a reality. She the "ugly duckling" in her family, loved by them but she's socially awkward, her insecurities are very deep set; she's not pretty enough, she's not clever enough, she's not feminine enough. See? Hugs needed! And then a stranger comes to town. A yummy stranger who sees her, acknowledges her, listens to her, and her imagination goes wild! Dante is that stranger and he IS dangerous, he's a vampire.... I love how sensitively and realistically the author portrayed her and her feelings, immediately letting the reader see HER. But her inner radar is beeping madly, she feels unsettled, she feels this, "I both wanted him and wanted to run from him."
I really loved Dante from the start, he's so far removed from his sire in his manner, in his kindness, in his aspirations. Allard is a piece of poo under a shoe, that Dante can't wipe clean, Allard control him, his thoughts, his actions but Allard can't control the disgust and loathing Dante feels for him. I loved the effect Maeve has on Dante, so hot, so dark, so delicious! I just loved him more with each restraint he imposed on himself around her, but he's agonna, he's feeling something he hasn't felt for so long. I melted with this thought, "If obsession had a flavor, this was it." Yes, he desires Maeve, badly and it ain't just for her blood. Oh glory did I feel for him! His desire to consume Maeve nearly consumes him but he doesn't give in, and finally, this happened...."for the first time in longer than I could remember, I chose desire over hunger." Dante's desperation to stop Allard, without repressions on him, sets a deadly plan in motion and hell was it heart pumping! Had a vampire been in the room with me for the final few chapters, they would've been hard pressed to leave me be, my pulse would have been too enticing! But shoot, the author pushed the tempo on full force and the adrenaline dialled high.
Golly did I enjoy this read! This author plucked all the right strings on the violin, she even snapped a few! The incredible way she built the narrative, I could really sink my teeth into it. Yes, pun intended...But heavens, not only were Maeve and Dante busy wrapping themselves round my heart, the supporting cast was just that! They propped up an already very interesting read and gave it an extra layer of coil. Maeve's dad is super cool, literally. He adores Maeve, he's supportive, he's loving and never judgemental. Ok, he did have a moment about Dante but he got over it. Dante's business partners and friends, Markus and Kale, atypical vamps if ever I saw one, were 100% behind Dante, their affection and loyalty were as stark as bright sunshine. This story follows the "morality" of vamps, a lovely fresh take on vampires. Ms Sines definitely brought the action and the angst and the tension to screeching point, a full rounded tale of wants, needs, restraint and the most delicious love story. Superbly dark, superbly warming, superbly done!
Maeve had me giggling almost the minute I met her, then switched to wanting to hug her the next. This author captured her personality exemplary. A small town girl, living a VERY dull, unexciting life, lives through the characters in the books she reads. Sound familiar? 😛 Well... those dreams are a bit... risqué for the prudish town, but hey, it doesn't stop her thoughts and dreams. Dreams she would ever think of making a reality. She the "ugly duckling" in her family, loved by them but she's socially awkward, her insecurities are very deep set; she's not pretty enough, she's not clever enough, she's not feminine enough. See? Hugs needed! And then a stranger comes to town. A yummy stranger who sees her, acknowledges her, listens to her, and her imagination goes wild! Dante is that stranger and he IS dangerous, he's a vampire.... I love how sensitively and realistically the author portrayed her and her feelings, immediately letting the reader see HER. But her inner radar is beeping madly, she feels unsettled, she feels this, "I both wanted him and wanted to run from him."
I really loved Dante from the start, he's so far removed from his sire in his manner, in his kindness, in his aspirations. Allard is a piece of poo under a shoe, that Dante can't wipe clean, Allard control him, his thoughts, his actions but Allard can't control the disgust and loathing Dante feels for him. I loved the effect Maeve has on Dante, so hot, so dark, so delicious! I just loved him more with each restraint he imposed on himself around her, but he's agonna, he's feeling something he hasn't felt for so long. I melted with this thought, "If obsession had a flavor, this was it." Yes, he desires Maeve, badly and it ain't just for her blood. Oh glory did I feel for him! His desire to consume Maeve nearly consumes him but he doesn't give in, and finally, this happened...."for the first time in longer than I could remember, I chose desire over hunger." Dante's desperation to stop Allard, without repressions on him, sets a deadly plan in motion and hell was it heart pumping! Had a vampire been in the room with me for the final few chapters, they would've been hard pressed to leave me be, my pulse would have been too enticing! But shoot, the author pushed the tempo on full force and the adrenaline dialled high.
Golly did I enjoy this read! This author plucked all the right strings on the violin, she even snapped a few! The incredible way she built the narrative, I could really sink my teeth into it. Yes, pun intended...But heavens, not only were Maeve and Dante busy wrapping themselves round my heart, the supporting cast was just that! They propped up an already very interesting read and gave it an extra layer of coil. Maeve's dad is super cool, literally. He adores Maeve, he's supportive, he's loving and never judgemental. Ok, he did have a moment about Dante but he got over it. Dante's business partners and friends, Markus and Kale, atypical vamps if ever I saw one, were 100% behind Dante, their affection and loyalty were as stark as bright sunshine. This story follows the "morality" of vamps, a lovely fresh take on vampires. Ms Sines definitely brought the action and the angst and the tension to screeching point, a full rounded tale of wants, needs, restraint and the most delicious love story. Superbly dark, superbly warming, superbly done!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this delightful book. This stand alone nobel was inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe and is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary collection.
When I first heard of the concept of a novel inspired by Poe, I was completely and utterly sold. Including vampires in the mixture and it makes for such a wonderful duo! This story was inspired by both The Masque of the Red Death and The Cask of Amontillado.
This book centers around the vampire, Dante, and the human sommelier, Maeve. I honestly loved both of these main characters. Maeve, as a main character, is not like most female main characters who star in novels about vampires. She is not some ditzy human who would sooner offer her neck without thinking about the problems behind doing so. Or what I like to call the brain cell-lacking type of main characters. When this book does not lack romance, Maeve does not go headfirst into the darkness. I'm not saying Maeve doesn't have her desires, but she is not lacking in brain cells when it comes to her romancing of Dante.
The story is interesting and isn't just about some hopeless vampire romance that holds no true plot. The character balance between both Dante and Maeve is something that can be seen constantly in the storyline, with no loose ends. I truly enjoyed the book. It was a nice read that was the perfect length and didn't seem to drone on for too long. A story can be interesting and lose something when the story becomes too long, but that is not the case with this novel.
There are plenty of twists and turns along the way. Every character introduced has their role to play and are not the side burner, throwaway characters that do not contribute to the plot. When there are plenty of characters in the cast of characters that are nonverbal roles, they still have their parts to play in this novel.
There is a little spice in the book, but it is not a high level of spice overall. Though for me, that actually added to the book rather than took away from it. Sometimes, having too much of a good thing, spice in this case, can take away from the overall plot of the novel. So I was actually thankful that this novel was more balanced. Even going as far as to work on the plot, overthrowing fan service amounts of spice at the readers.
When I first heard of the concept of a novel inspired by Poe, I was completely and utterly sold. Including vampires in the mixture and it makes for such a wonderful duo! This story was inspired by both The Masque of the Red Death and The Cask of Amontillado.
This book centers around the vampire, Dante, and the human sommelier, Maeve. I honestly loved both of these main characters. Maeve, as a main character, is not like most female main characters who star in novels about vampires. She is not some ditzy human who would sooner offer her neck without thinking about the problems behind doing so. Or what I like to call the brain cell-lacking type of main characters. When this book does not lack romance, Maeve does not go headfirst into the darkness. I'm not saying Maeve doesn't have her desires, but she is not lacking in brain cells when it comes to her romancing of Dante.
The story is interesting and isn't just about some hopeless vampire romance that holds no true plot. The character balance between both Dante and Maeve is something that can be seen constantly in the storyline, with no loose ends. I truly enjoyed the book. It was a nice read that was the perfect length and didn't seem to drone on for too long. A story can be interesting and lose something when the story becomes too long, but that is not the case with this novel.
There are plenty of twists and turns along the way. Every character introduced has their role to play and are not the side burner, throwaway characters that do not contribute to the plot. When there are plenty of characters in the cast of characters that are nonverbal roles, they still have their parts to play in this novel.
There is a little spice in the book, but it is not a high level of spice overall. Though for me, that actually added to the book rather than took away from it. Sometimes, having too much of a good thing, spice in this case, can take away from the overall plot of the novel. So I was actually thankful that this novel was more balanced. Even going as far as to work on the plot, overthrowing fan service amounts of spice at the readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to say that I really liked this book. It was a good book with such a sloooooooowwwwww burn with our MMC.
So let me talk about what I liked first. I really liked our MMC. Even though he had to fight his commands from his sire, his love for the MFC tried to override some of that. Our MFC works in her parents restaurant and falls for our MMC. At the beginning, there is a delivery with wine that looked more like blood. This didn't get answered that I can recall so I was kinda confused as during some of the information shows that blood was added to alcohol in the book. I don't want to add much details around this because of spoilers. We have a few side characters that I would have loved to see more on them because the one seems to get a little obsessed with a young person... So not sure if that is because of protecting or infatuation. If you want a slow burn where she gets hers first, then you'll love this... BUT if you want some "adult" action where both have a happy ending, you are going to have to way until almost the end.... Just strap in and hold on for the ride. I do love that our MMC has a conscience and wants to do the right thing no matter what.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and the characters. There were a few spots I would have liked more information to create more of the depth that I want from books but it was still entertaining and I overall enjoyed the story. Some spots were a little slow and others didn't have enough details but I would still recommend this book.
This is the first book I've read from this author so I feel invested in these character and want to know more. I feel like there is a whole story prior to where we are at... Like the Vampire Diaries. Lets gooooooo!
Thank you to the author for working with me
So let me talk about what I liked first. I really liked our MMC. Even though he had to fight his commands from his sire, his love for the MFC tried to override some of that. Our MFC works in her parents restaurant and falls for our MMC. At the beginning, there is a delivery with wine that looked more like blood. This didn't get answered that I can recall so I was kinda confused as during some of the information shows that blood was added to alcohol in the book. I don't want to add much details around this because of spoilers. We have a few side characters that I would have loved to see more on them because the one seems to get a little obsessed with a young person... So not sure if that is because of protecting or infatuation. If you want a slow burn where she gets hers first, then you'll love this... BUT if you want some "adult" action where both have a happy ending, you are going to have to way until almost the end.... Just strap in and hold on for the ride. I do love that our MMC has a conscience and wants to do the right thing no matter what.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and the characters. There were a few spots I would have liked more information to create more of the depth that I want from books but it was still entertaining and I overall enjoyed the story. Some spots were a little slow and others didn't have enough details but I would still recommend this book.
This is the first book I've read from this author so I feel invested in these character and want to know more. I feel like there is a whole story prior to where we are at... Like the Vampire Diaries. Lets gooooooo!
Thank you to the author for working with me
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re looking for a little “mind vacation” read featuring wine and vampires, this book fits the bill. I enjoyed the little clever bits of literary wit peppered here and there:
“The memories lingered like sediment, dark and bitter at the back of my throat.”
“… I’d open a bottle of wine and let it bleed into a glass, as dark and defiant as my mood.”
While I found the premise of the book interesting enough to keep me reading, it failed to deliver the dark gothic Poe inspired romance it is billed as. The first couple chapters were promising with setting the mood but quickly faded as the book progressed. The only thing dark or edgy about the MMC, Dante, is that he is a vampire. He was referred to as a “bad boy” and struggled to keep his inner “monster” at bay and frankly, I didn’t see it. The FMC, Maeve, spoke of dark sexual fantasies but their interactions were very… vanilla. Basically there was a lot of talk about darker elements but no follow through.
I found all the characters to be pretty superficial and the inner dialogues of the main characters to be a little corny. It may have been the ample use of exclamation points.
I was hoping for a bit more excitement through out the book. It just felt like it was missing the “wow” factor. That being said, I think the premise has a lot of promise! A little more character building and refining, a little more depth to the main characters’ relationship and more attention to the atmospheric feel of the story would elevate this book.
All in all, I enjoyed the story!
I was honored to receive an ARC copy of this book and am excited to see how the author grows as a writer in the future!
“The memories lingered like sediment, dark and bitter at the back of my throat.”
“… I’d open a bottle of wine and let it bleed into a glass, as dark and defiant as my mood.”
While I found the premise of the book interesting enough to keep me reading, it failed to deliver the dark gothic Poe inspired romance it is billed as. The first couple chapters were promising with setting the mood but quickly faded as the book progressed. The only thing dark or edgy about the MMC, Dante, is that he is a vampire. He was referred to as a “bad boy” and struggled to keep his inner “monster” at bay and frankly, I didn’t see it. The FMC, Maeve, spoke of dark sexual fantasies but their interactions were very… vanilla. Basically there was a lot of talk about darker elements but no follow through.
I found all the characters to be pretty superficial and the inner dialogues of the main characters to be a little corny. It may have been the ample use of exclamation points.
I was hoping for a bit more excitement through out the book. It just felt like it was missing the “wow” factor. That being said, I think the premise has a lot of promise! A little more character building and refining, a little more depth to the main characters’ relationship and more attention to the atmospheric feel of the story would elevate this book.
All in all, I enjoyed the story!
I was honored to receive an ARC copy of this book and am excited to see how the author grows as a writer in the future!
Review of advance copy
I’ve read vampire stories before, but something about this one stood out. I loved that Maeve had a full life before Dante entered it. She had a job, a passion for wine, and her family’s restaurant. Dante didn’t want to take her away from it. He wanted to know her and become part of her world.
His fascination with Maeve was compelling, though I did hate that at times she believed it wasn’t driven by his free will. The depth of his feelings and obsession ran far deeper than she ever imagined. It shows in the way he goes out of his way to see her and stay close, even when he isn’t directly with her.
The story itself was fascinating and easy to get lost in. Learning the history and past dealings of Mirafail alongside Maeve added so much depth. Not only does she have to absorb this new knowledge, but she’s also thrown into a dangerous situation.
I also appreciated that Maeve wasn’t isolated. Unlike many stories where the FMC stands alone, her family was closely involved and present. She had people to lean on and talk things through with, which felt refreshing and healthy. Of course, she had Dante as well, but having support outside the romance made the story even stronger.
Overall, this was such an entertaining read. Dante and Maeve together were a joy to follow, and every side character felt purposeful and meaningful, adding depth to the world and strengthening the story as a whole. I received this as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The man in me wanted to touch her, but the vampire wanted to consume her.
His fascination with Maeve was compelling, though I did hate that at times she believed it wasn’t driven by his free will. The depth of his feelings and obsession ran far deeper than she ever imagined. It shows in the way he goes out of his way to see her and stay close, even when he isn’t directly with her.
The story itself was fascinating and easy to get lost in. Learning the history and past dealings of Mirafail alongside Maeve added so much depth. Not only does she have to absorb this new knowledge, but she’s also thrown into a dangerous situation.
I also appreciated that Maeve wasn’t isolated. Unlike many stories where the FMC stands alone, her family was closely involved and present. She had people to lean on and talk things through with, which felt refreshing and healthy. Of course, she had Dante as well, but having support outside the romance made the story even stronger.
Overall, this was such an entertaining read. Dante and Maeve together were a joy to follow, and every side character felt purposeful and meaningful, adding depth to the world and strengthening the story as a whole. I received this as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The man in me wanted to touch her, but the vampire wanted to consume her.
February 3, 2026
Sometimes when you take a chance on a book, it pays off. Sara Sines is a new-to-me author, and let me tell you, Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts was excellent. This Gothic checks a few boxes: small town ✔️, family bonds ✔️, a masquerade ball ✔️, a bookish MFC ✔️, and vampires ✔️, and it would be a Gothic if the romance were dark. ✔️
The story is told from two perspectives. One is Maeve, who is awkward and shy, but the sommelier really brightens up when she talks about wine. The second is Dante Trevil, who is mysterious and charming and who, without a doubt, knows he's a villain but wants the girl anyway. They have a will-they-or-won't-they thing going on for most of the book, and it was intense. They were drawn together like magnets.
Sara really sets the stage; it's perfect for nighttime or rainy day reading. In the first chapter, there is a body count, and that sort of sets the intensity for the rest of the book. Most definitely had me wondering who would drop next. There was something sinister going on for sure. Between Dante, Allard (Dante's sire), Maeve, and the others, there were a lot of plans, and it was a race to see who could complete theirs first. I honestly didn't know how this was going to end; it could have gone either way. Plus, I had no idea if Sara was one of those authors who thrived on the tears of her readers or not. Thankfully, she wasn't. Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a perfect moody read. If you're looking for just this side of dark romance, then it's just dark enough.
The story is told from two perspectives. One is Maeve, who is awkward and shy, but the sommelier really brightens up when she talks about wine. The second is Dante Trevil, who is mysterious and charming and who, without a doubt, knows he's a villain but wants the girl anyway. They have a will-they-or-won't-they thing going on for most of the book, and it was intense. They were drawn together like magnets.
Sara really sets the stage; it's perfect for nighttime or rainy day reading. In the first chapter, there is a body count, and that sort of sets the intensity for the rest of the book. Most definitely had me wondering who would drop next. There was something sinister going on for sure. Between Dante, Allard (Dante's sire), Maeve, and the others, there were a lot of plans, and it was a race to see who could complete theirs first. I honestly didn't know how this was going to end; it could have gone either way. Plus, I had no idea if Sara was one of those authors who thrived on the tears of her readers or not. Thankfully, she wasn't. Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a perfect moody read. If you're looking for just this side of dark romance, then it's just dark enough.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maeve Keeling - FMC - Small town sommelier
Dante Trevil MMC - Vampire, business owner, owned by his sire
Villain - old vampire that wants his medieval ages back when he could eat all the humans his heart desired
I'll be honest, it's a cheese vampire romance, Twilight with spice... MMC gives such Edward character vibes from the very start. Insta love, broody vampire. He's 140y/o but this young woman (28 in think) is just so special.... first in his 113 of being a vampire to hold his attention.
Her family dynamic is all over the place. Her mother seems a bit toxic to be honest. FMC is her father's favorite. She seems to be the butt of the joke of the city, but this we know from her, so is she a reliable narrator? We don't have other proof except her POV and memories. Some parts felt rushed. She had a big family the author tried to convince us she had a good relationship with, but all in all to many characters, for such a short read so not enough time to see the good relationship.
MMC kissed her hand and her father make a whole fuss about it, and how he is now her boyfriend, and he is against him, but at some point he just flips the script.
All in all, we have some adventure, some spice, some romance. And vampires. I do recommend it for an easy read when you don't want to make a fuss about reading. This book has a 3 star from me.
This was an ARC. Thank you to the author for the opportunity.
Dante Trevil MMC - Vampire, business owner, owned by his sire
Villain - old vampire that wants his medieval ages back when he could eat all the humans his heart desired
I'll be honest, it's a cheese vampire romance, Twilight with spice... MMC gives such Edward character vibes from the very start. Insta love, broody vampire. He's 140y/o but this young woman (28 in think) is just so special.... first in his 113 of being a vampire to hold his attention.
Her family dynamic is all over the place. Her mother seems a bit toxic to be honest. FMC is her father's favorite. She seems to be the butt of the joke of the city, but this we know from her, so is she a reliable narrator? We don't have other proof except her POV and memories. Some parts felt rushed. She had a big family the author tried to convince us she had a good relationship with, but all in all to many characters, for such a short read so not enough time to see the good relationship.
MMC kissed her hand and her father make a whole fuss about it, and how he is now her boyfriend, and he is against him, but at some point he just flips the script.
All in all, we have some adventure, some spice, some romance. And vampires. I do recommend it for an easy read when you don't want to make a fuss about reading. This book has a 3 star from me.
This was an ARC. Thank you to the author for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ooooh how I love a good Gothic romance! Especially when it's done this well, and with vampires!! Check the trigger warnings though! The author does an amazing job of using the triggering scenes to really highlight the depravity and unsettle us, we're every bit as uncomfortable as Dante and Maeve.
Maeve is SO RELATABLE. She's a bookworm, fantasizing about her smutty books and wishing a man would come along who gave her even a hint of spice in her vanilla world. She wants to be swept off her feet, but she's also the less conventionally attractive sister so she's often overlooked. She's a bit shy and socially awkward, but so enthusiastic and engaging when she's talking about her passions (wine, in her case).
Dante...he's our broody, tortured, morally gray MMC who thinks she's perfect and can't stay away, a truly burn-the-world-for-her kind of guy. He's so tragic and complicated and I was absolutely rooting for him throughout this whole story!
Also, it's really refreshing to have a smart FMC who not only thinks things through logically with a healthy dose of skepticism, but also relies on her family for help instead of handling it all on her own. It just makes so much more sense!!!
All in all, this was a great read! I definitely recommend it!
Maeve is SO RELATABLE. She's a bookworm, fantasizing about her smutty books and wishing a man would come along who gave her even a hint of spice in her vanilla world. She wants to be swept off her feet, but she's also the less conventionally attractive sister so she's often overlooked. She's a bit shy and socially awkward, but so enthusiastic and engaging when she's talking about her passions (wine, in her case).
Dante...he's our broody, tortured, morally gray MMC who thinks she's perfect and can't stay away, a truly burn-the-world-for-her kind of guy. He's so tragic and complicated and I was absolutely rooting for him throughout this whole story!
Also, it's really refreshing to have a smart FMC who not only thinks things through logically with a healthy dose of skepticism, but also relies on her family for help instead of handling it all on her own. It just makes so much more sense!!!
All in all, this was a great read! I definitely recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really enjoyable read. Sara Sines is a ‘new to me’ author but I’m so glad I came across her. I really liked the whole writing style of the book - there are so many gorgeously descriptive and poetic lines scattered throughout this story.
This book is a slow burn, dark gothic romance with vampires! It’s also a stand-alone. What’s not to love?!
The MCs have really great chemistry and are very easy to like. In fact I found myself rooting for them right away. The romance between them has a really sweet feel to it. They are written with a good level of depth and nuance. Maeve wasn’t your typical FMC with a stubborn, independent streak who knew everything. This made her feel more relatable which I liked. Dante was a brooding MMC but I liked that he wasn’t totally predictable with his actions, but he’d definitely burn the world down for her!
The side characters played a substantial role in this story which I really enjoyed. The MCs had to really rely on these other characters. Loved the the nickname ‘little snack’ from Kale. 😆
Can see the potential for possible spin-offs 👀🤞🏼- would love to see more of some of the other characters.
Overall a great stand-alone - I really enjoyed it.
Huge thanks to Sarah Sines and Literary Inspired for the privilege of reading an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and voluntarily/honestly given.
This book is a slow burn, dark gothic romance with vampires! It’s also a stand-alone. What’s not to love?!
The MCs have really great chemistry and are very easy to like. In fact I found myself rooting for them right away. The romance between them has a really sweet feel to it. They are written with a good level of depth and nuance. Maeve wasn’t your typical FMC with a stubborn, independent streak who knew everything. This made her feel more relatable which I liked. Dante was a brooding MMC but I liked that he wasn’t totally predictable with his actions, but he’d definitely burn the world down for her!
The side characters played a substantial role in this story which I really enjoyed. The MCs had to really rely on these other characters. Loved the the nickname ‘little snack’ from Kale. 😆
Can see the potential for possible spin-offs 👀🤞🏼- would love to see more of some of the other characters.
Overall a great stand-alone - I really enjoyed it.
Huge thanks to Sarah Sines and Literary Inspired for the privilege of reading an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and voluntarily/honestly given.
February 3, 2026
Even the title suggests a book full of mystery and darkness😶🌫️
Harmony reigns in Mirafail, a town that has been home to the same families for generations.
Until, that is, the bogeyman emerged from his sunken lair...
Maeve Keeling and her family run a bar that doubles as a restaurant and a venue for tasting renowned wines.
This local business is targeted by Allard Denholm, the owner of an ancient castle and a profitable private vineyard.
At his service there is a man who would rather not submit to the demands of his sire or his impulsive and unpredictable behaviour.
Dante Trevil is in an awkward but inescapable situation: he must obey the orders of those who gave him a new, albeit damned, life. However, he does not want to see innocent blood staining the streets of a peaceful town, which has been at peace for a long time until Mr Denholm returned...
Although the gothic atmosphere and the tension between the main characters give the story a lively pace, I found it a bit rushed. It's a shame, because it would have been nice to find out more about Dante's background and the founding families of the city — a bit like in The Vampire Diaries, don't you think?
If you love dark paranormal romance, intricate mysteries and surprise endings, I can only recommend reading it!
Harmony reigns in Mirafail, a town that has been home to the same families for generations.
Until, that is, the bogeyman emerged from his sunken lair...
Maeve Keeling and her family run a bar that doubles as a restaurant and a venue for tasting renowned wines.
This local business is targeted by Allard Denholm, the owner of an ancient castle and a profitable private vineyard.
At his service there is a man who would rather not submit to the demands of his sire or his impulsive and unpredictable behaviour.
Dante Trevil is in an awkward but inescapable situation: he must obey the orders of those who gave him a new, albeit damned, life. However, he does not want to see innocent blood staining the streets of a peaceful town, which has been at peace for a long time until Mr Denholm returned...
Although the gothic atmosphere and the tension between the main characters give the story a lively pace, I found it a bit rushed. It's a shame, because it would have been nice to find out more about Dante's background and the founding families of the city — a bit like in The Vampire Diaries, don't you think?
If you love dark paranormal romance, intricate mysteries and surprise endings, I can only recommend reading it!
February 6, 2026
I was given the opportunity to read Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts in trade for an honest review.
In this modern dark romantasy twist on The Mask of the Red Death and The Cask of Amintillado by Edgar Allan Poe we follow FMC Maeve and MMC Dante. Dante is a vampire and his sire is absolutely barbaric, he's still stuck in the times of vampires feeding on humans and using them for pleasure while modern day vampires have merged into society peacefully and use blood banks to feed instead of humans. Maeve is a socially awkward human who works in a restaurant with her parents, brother and sister. She is the master of wines so she does the wine tastings and that's where she meets Dante.
Now I did enjoy the fact that 2 of my favorite stories from Poe were the inspiration behind this book but I feel like the pacing might have been a little slow at times which isn't always a bad thing but it made me struggle just a tiny bit while reading.
Overall I feel like Sara did a great job with her world building and character development, she was consistent and didn't have the story jumping all over the place or congested with unnecessary details.
In this modern dark romantasy twist on The Mask of the Red Death and The Cask of Amintillado by Edgar Allan Poe we follow FMC Maeve and MMC Dante. Dante is a vampire and his sire is absolutely barbaric, he's still stuck in the times of vampires feeding on humans and using them for pleasure while modern day vampires have merged into society peacefully and use blood banks to feed instead of humans. Maeve is a socially awkward human who works in a restaurant with her parents, brother and sister. She is the master of wines so she does the wine tastings and that's where she meets Dante.
Now I did enjoy the fact that 2 of my favorite stories from Poe were the inspiration behind this book but I feel like the pacing might have been a little slow at times which isn't always a bad thing but it made me struggle just a tiny bit while reading.
Overall I feel like Sara did a great job with her world building and character development, she was consistent and didn't have the story jumping all over the place or congested with unnecessary details.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from the Author
Sara Sines is a new author for me. Some how I stumbled upon her on social media and I'm happy that I did.
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a beautifully written dark gothic romance inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado" and "The Masque of the Red Death"
Sara does a fabulous job of bringing the gothic feel of Poe into her writing with every page of this book. The small town of Mirafail is brought to life with vivid and detailed writing. The main characters, Dante and Maeve, have a great balance throughout the book. The romance doesn't overpower the story and the pacing was perfect for the length of the book, which I absolutely loved.
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a great choice for anyone looking for a gothic dark romance.
*Note for fans of Edgar Allan Poe inspired books. This is book 5 of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary series. A collection of 12 stand alone novels inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe*
Sara Sines is a new author for me. Some how I stumbled upon her on social media and I'm happy that I did.
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a beautifully written dark gothic romance inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado" and "The Masque of the Red Death"
Sara does a fabulous job of bringing the gothic feel of Poe into her writing with every page of this book. The small town of Mirafail is brought to life with vivid and detailed writing. The main characters, Dante and Maeve, have a great balance throughout the book. The romance doesn't overpower the story and the pacing was perfect for the length of the book, which I absolutely loved.
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts is a great choice for anyone looking for a gothic dark romance.
*Note for fans of Edgar Allan Poe inspired books. This is book 5 of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary series. A collection of 12 stand alone novels inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe*
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wanted to try to be unbiased, because before accepting this ARC I did not realize this was a vampire story, and I loathe vampire love stories. It isn't sexy, the science of it doesn't work, and even the "magic" falls apart with a tiny bit of logic. If I had know, I would have never accepted. Unfortunately, nothing in the posts regarding the ARC mentioned that. After reviewing the posts, I don't feel they were an accurate depiction at all, with promises of dark, gothic romance, and Edgar Allen Poe inspired.
This was a more modern romance, and had the barest of nods towards The Cask of Amontillado. I just didn't see the tortured soul of Dante, or either main character longing for each other during their dual povs. In fact, the story really revolved around Maeve's job and her embedded family rather than the budding romance. At times, it almost felt more like a cozy murder mystery. And I was creeped that it seemed to be setting up a relationship between an underage teen and another vampire towards the end of the book. I love Poe related things, morally grey MMCs, and steamy romances, but none of that is this book.
This review is based on an ARC and is my honest opinion.
This was a more modern romance, and had the barest of nods towards The Cask of Amontillado. I just didn't see the tortured soul of Dante, or either main character longing for each other during their dual povs. In fact, the story really revolved around Maeve's job and her embedded family rather than the budding romance. At times, it almost felt more like a cozy murder mystery. And I was creeped that it seemed to be setting up a relationship between an underage teen and another vampire towards the end of the book. I love Poe related things, morally grey MMCs, and steamy romances, but none of that is this book.
This review is based on an ARC and is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maeve Keeling is a small town sommelier with dark fantasies working in her parent’s bar/restaurant and Dante Trevil waltzes into her life to may fulfill them all. Mirafail is a quiet small town with dark secrets hiding in plain sight and as people start to disappear the mysteries start to unravel. Will the town perish at the hands of the vampire in their midst or will Maeve and Dante be able to stop the darkness from spreading in time?
Slow burn romance with a shy Maeve and a morally grey Dante. Edgar Allan Poe inspired elements and is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary collection. The characters are well developed and Maeve is a lovable “book gal” with book boyfriends. The story moved a little slowly for me and I would have loved to have a chapter to see what was going on with Allard but overall a good read. Unexpected twists and turns, some spice thrown in but not as much as I would have expected.
I received an ARC copy but my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off I would like to thank the author and their team for the opportunity of receiving this book as an eARC. I enjoyed it very much and it was a fast read. If you love a dual POV you will enjoy this book. If you are a vampire lover as well you will enjoy it! I also liked the FMC, Maeve being 28 and the 140 year old vampire, Dante (described as looking 40). I also enjoyed how the villain, Denholm, is described as a very creepy and sick twisted vampire. Loved how supportive the FMC's family is and the small town in general. I believe all my favorite quotes in this book were from Dante.
Favorite quotes:
"Some of the darkest corners of humanity often hid beneath the thinnest veil of normalcy."
"And sometimes, the things whispered in shadow bore sharper edges than any blade."
"The man in me wanted to touch her, but the vampire in me wanted to consume her."
"I know exactly what I want in a woman. More importantly, I know what I don't want. You are perfection."
Favorite quotes:
"Some of the darkest corners of humanity often hid beneath the thinnest veil of normalcy."
"And sometimes, the things whispered in shadow bore sharper edges than any blade."
"The man in me wanted to touch her, but the vampire in me wanted to consume her."
"I know exactly what I want in a woman. More importantly, I know what I don't want. You are perfection."
February 16, 2026
I really enjoyed this. The plot absolutely worked for me, and I was fully invested from start to finish. That said, a few things felt a little unfinished, especially the FMC’s “dark desires,” which were mentioned often but never truly explored. With Dante clearly able to deliver on that, I was hoping to see Maeve step outside her shy, innocent box a bit more.
What I did love was Dante’s honesty. He never pretended to be something he wasn’t...he didn't preach that “I’ll love her until she grows old and dies” fantasy. He straight up admits he’d turn her to keep her, and that felt refreshing, real, and more mature than typical YA vampire tropes.
Overall, a solid, enjoyable read with great potential. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from this author.
Thank you @literaryinspired for organizing this ARC read and @sarasinesauthor for trusting readers with such a beautifully dark story.
What I did love was Dante’s honesty. He never pretended to be something he wasn’t...he didn't preach that “I’ll love her until she grows old and dies” fantasy. He straight up admits he’d turn her to keep her, and that felt refreshing, real, and more mature than typical YA vampire tropes.
Overall, a solid, enjoyable read with great potential. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more from this author.
Thank you @literaryinspired for organizing this ARC read and @sarasinesauthor for trusting readers with such a beautifully dark story.
April 11, 2026
I absolutely loved this read! Blazed right through it and couldn't stop myself because I needed to know what would happen. This is the first book I've read by Sara Sines, but it most definitely won't be the last. I loved the characters, adored the monstrous vampires who are so, so believable and not romanticized as they so often are in romantasy and paranormal romance, and I absolutely couldn't get enough of the twisty plot.
I also appreciated the nods to Edgar Allan Poe's works, two of which inspired this story, and there were some lovely references that made me smile, especially the mention of the wine in chapter 1. Absolutely LOVED that attention to detail. While this story doesn't quite give off the spooky vibes so classic of Poe's style, it definitely delves into the dark, gritty, and horrific in fitting ways.
So far, this series has been stellar and this volume makes for an unforgettable addition.
I also appreciated the nods to Edgar Allan Poe's works, two of which inspired this story, and there were some lovely references that made me smile, especially the mention of the wine in chapter 1. Absolutely LOVED that attention to detail. While this story doesn't quite give off the spooky vibes so classic of Poe's style, it definitely delves into the dark, gritty, and horrific in fitting ways.
So far, this series has been stellar and this volume makes for an unforgettable addition.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of ARC
I was lucky enough to receive this advanced copy from the Author.
Masquerade Of Vengeful Hearts is a Gothic Romance set in a small town with dark secrets.
Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe.
The MMC is morally gray and a vampire-Dante. 🔥
He is forced to return to his sire when crosses paths with Maeve, a local sommelier at her family's restaurant, and she might just be what helps break the curse plaguing the town.
Maeve isn't your "typical" FMC you might find in a dark romance. She is a book girl that also has a love for the darker side plus awkward, shy, and skinny.
Slow Burn. Low level of spicy and a good plot and story line overall.
Definitely a must read in my honest opinion.
Thank you @LiteraryInspired for organizing this ARC read and @Sarasinesauthor for trusting the readers with your dark story.
I was lucky enough to receive this advanced copy from the Author.
Masquerade Of Vengeful Hearts is a Gothic Romance set in a small town with dark secrets.
Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe.
The MMC is morally gray and a vampire-Dante. 🔥
He is forced to return to his sire when crosses paths with Maeve, a local sommelier at her family's restaurant, and she might just be what helps break the curse plaguing the town.
Maeve isn't your "typical" FMC you might find in a dark romance. She is a book girl that also has a love for the darker side plus awkward, shy, and skinny.
Slow Burn. Low level of spicy and a good plot and story line overall.
Definitely a must read in my honest opinion.
Thank you @LiteraryInspired for organizing this ARC read and @Sarasinesauthor for trusting the readers with your dark story.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC Review: Okay, folks, I completely adored this story. As a gothic romance lover, this book truly put the nail in the coffin, quite literally. The references to Edgar Allan Poe’s The Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of the Red Death were perfect and added a deliciously dark layer to the story.
Maeve is a shy, dark-romance book girlie who suddenly finds herself living out all of our very own fantasies with her own vampire, Dante. She catches the eye of a visiting vampire who's in town to help his sire, a monster who believes himself untouchable. As the small town slowly falls under the influence of an ancient vampire through alcoholic concoctions, Maeve and her family are thrown into the fray.
This was atmospheric and wickedly satisfying. If you love Poe, seductive vampires, and watching monsters fall by their own hand, add this to your TBR.
Maeve is a shy, dark-romance book girlie who suddenly finds herself living out all of our very own fantasies with her own vampire, Dante. She catches the eye of a visiting vampire who's in town to help his sire, a monster who believes himself untouchable. As the small town slowly falls under the influence of an ancient vampire through alcoholic concoctions, Maeve and her family are thrown into the fray.
This was atmospheric and wickedly satisfying. If you love Poe, seductive vampires, and watching monsters fall by their own hand, add this to your TBR.
Review of advance copy
I was excited to dive into this book when I read the snippet on Sara’s page! I really liked the idea of the Poe inspired story and premise of the book. Maeve and Dante’s relationship and struggles surrounding their circumstances made it an engaging and fun story. I appreciated the details in each character, the world building and the supporting characters quirks and personalities. It really made the story come to life and really draws you in. I am curious to see if we will get some side stories of Kale and Markus because the snippets we got of their personalities would be great to explore! I love Sara’s work each book I have read has been an adventure and keeps me turning the pages to see where we go next! The only thing that was missing for me was more time with the characters together after all of the chaos ended.
February 3, 2026
⭐ 4.25 out of 5 stars
Slow burn, steamy romance
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts by Sara Sines is a moody gothic romance that leans hard into atmosphere, tension, and dangerous devotion. Mirafail is full of beauty and darkness, and the cursed magic around the town gives the story an uneasy pulse from the start.
Maeve is a quietly strong FMC whose curiosity pulls her into trouble. Dante, our morally gray MMC, is the real draw. Controlled, haunted, and bound by blood, his struggle between duty and desire drives a slow burn that demands patience and rewards it. His restraint make the eventual payoff hit harder.
The pacing is intentionally slow, sometimes lingering where I wanted more depth, but the tension never fully fades.
Overall, this was a compelling, gothic slow burn with sharp vibes and dangerous romance. Strap in and enjoy the ache.
Slow burn, steamy romance
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts by Sara Sines is a moody gothic romance that leans hard into atmosphere, tension, and dangerous devotion. Mirafail is full of beauty and darkness, and the cursed magic around the town gives the story an uneasy pulse from the start.
Maeve is a quietly strong FMC whose curiosity pulls her into trouble. Dante, our morally gray MMC, is the real draw. Controlled, haunted, and bound by blood, his struggle between duty and desire drives a slow burn that demands patience and rewards it. His restraint make the eventual payoff hit harder.
The pacing is intentionally slow, sometimes lingering where I wanted more depth, but the tension never fully fades.
Overall, this was a compelling, gothic slow burn with sharp vibes and dangerous romance. Strap in and enjoy the ache.
February 10, 2026
ARC Reader
I had the pleasure of getting an opportunity to read this ARC. After starting, I discovered it was part of a series of standalone books written by different authors inspired by Edgar Allen Poe stories. This intrigued me more. The overall story was good, but, at least for me, was lacking in the romance plot. When I heard it was a dark romance, I guess I expected more romance. Don't get me wrong, the main characters have chemistry and do have their moments, but for the spicyist scene to be in the last few pages... left me wanting more.
I have not read many Edgar Allen Poe stories, but I can see where this series gets its inspiration. This story very well could fall within his way of writing and storytelling. Dark, Gothic vibes. Overall, it made me want to explore the other books in the series to see how the other authors take inspiration from Poe.
I had the pleasure of getting an opportunity to read this ARC. After starting, I discovered it was part of a series of standalone books written by different authors inspired by Edgar Allen Poe stories. This intrigued me more. The overall story was good, but, at least for me, was lacking in the romance plot. When I heard it was a dark romance, I guess I expected more romance. Don't get me wrong, the main characters have chemistry and do have their moments, but for the spicyist scene to be in the last few pages... left me wanting more.
I have not read many Edgar Allen Poe stories, but I can see where this series gets its inspiration. This story very well could fall within his way of writing and storytelling. Dark, Gothic vibes. Overall, it made me want to explore the other books in the series to see how the other authors take inspiration from Poe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Masquerade of Vengeful Hearts by Sara Sines is a beautifully written gothic romance centered on Maeve and Dante. Maeve is a local wine connoisseur who frequently hosts events at her parents’ restaurants, while Dante is just passing through, yet their attraction is immediate and hard to ignore.
I really enjoyed the Edgar Allan Poe–inspired atmosphere and thought the book struck a great balance between plot and spice. Too often, the romance can overpower the story, but here it enhanced it instead. The writing was easy to follow, the pacing was strong, and it made for a quick, enjoyable read. A solid pick for anyone looking for a romantasy with a darker, unexpected twist.
Thank you to Sara Sines & Meg from Literary Inspired for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed the Edgar Allan Poe–inspired atmosphere and thought the book struck a great balance between plot and spice. Too often, the romance can overpower the story, but here it enhanced it instead. The writing was easy to follow, the pacing was strong, and it made for a quick, enjoyable read. A solid pick for anyone looking for a romantasy with a darker, unexpected twist.
Thank you to Sara Sines & Meg from Literary Inspired for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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