A Gilded Game

by Carly Claire

It's all just a game to them.
But I'm playing for keeps.

Genres: Dark, Dark Romance

329 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2025

Reviews

[Nini · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
I got an arc, but my rating/review are my own!

omg this was so damm good!!!🫣🫣🫣
the beginning was so dark that I was not sure i was going to be avail to continue👀👀 but talking about the book to friends made me so excited to go back🫣🫣 i don't know what that says about me👀👀🫣🫣 do read the tw before going into this!!!

quotes:
••
𝕴 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖓𝖐 𝕴 𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖓 𝖋𝖔𝖗𝖌𝖊𝖙 𝖞𝖔 𝖇𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖎𝖓 𝖒𝖞 𝖊𝖝𝖈𝖎𝖙𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙.
𝕾𝖍𝖊'𝖘 𝖉𝖎𝖛𝖎𝖓𝖊
••
"𝓨𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓼𝓸 𝓭𝓮𝓵𝓲𝓬𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼. 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓸 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷'𝓽 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓰𝓮𝓽 𝓪 𝓽𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽'𝓼 𝓫𝓮𝓽𝔀𝓮𝓮𝓷 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓵𝓮𝓰𝓼."
"𝓘'𝓵𝓵 𝓵𝓮𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓶𝓮𝓮𝓽 𝓶𝓮 𝓫𝓮𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝓘 𝓴𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓘'𝓵𝓵 𝓵𝓮𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓮𝓮 𝓫𝓮𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓰𝓸 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓮𝔁𝓽 𝓵𝓲𝓯𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓸 𝔀𝓪𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓸𝔀𝓷𝓮𝓻... 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓰𝓸𝓭."
••
"𝕾𝖚𝖈𝖍 𝖆 𝖕𝖗𝖊𝖙𝖙𝖞 𝖘𝖑𝖚𝖙 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖒𝖊."
"𝕲𝖔𝖔𝖉 𝖌𝖎𝖗𝖑. 𝕾𝖊𝖊? 𝕴𝖙'𝖘 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖘𝖔 𝖇𝖆𝖉. 𝖄𝖔𝖚 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖒𝖆𝖉𝖊 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖒𝖊.... 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘"
••
"𝓣𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮'𝓼 𝓶𝔂 𝓹𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼 𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵."
"𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓪 𝓵𝓲𝓽𝓽𝓵𝓮 𝓹𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓾𝓻𝓮, 𝓛𝓲𝓽𝓽𝓵𝓮 𝓭𝓸𝓵𝓵? 𝓘 𝓴𝓷𝓸𝔀 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓬𝓪𝓷'𝓽 𝓪𝓷𝓼𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓶𝓮, 𝓫𝓾𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓫𝓸𝓭𝔂 𝓲𝓼 𝓽𝓮𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓼𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓼 𝔂𝓮𝓼."
••
"𝖄𝖔𝖚'𝖗𝖊 𝖘𝖔 𝖋𝖚𝖈𝖐𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖆𝖉𝖉𝖎𝖈𝖙𝖎𝖛𝖊"
••
"𝓦𝓱𝔂? 𝓐𝓻𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓻𝔂𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓰𝓮𝓽 𝓶𝓮 𝓭𝓻𝓾𝓷𝓴 𝓼𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓽𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓪𝓭𝓿𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓰𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓶𝓮?"
"𝓘𝓯 𝓘 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓪𝓭𝓿𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓰𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾, 𝓵𝓲𝓽𝓽𝓵𝓮 𝓭𝓸𝓵𝓵, 𝓘'𝓭 𝓼𝓲𝓶𝓹𝓵𝔂 𝓻𝓸𝓵𝓵 𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓲𝓷 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝓵𝓮𝓮𝓹. 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓵𝓮𝓮𝓹 𝓺𝓾𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓵𝔂."👀👀
••

tropes:
☆🍁dark romance
☆🍁killer
☆🍁he falls first & harder
☆🍁revenge
☆🍁medical play
☆🍁somnophilia 🫣
☆🍁🍇/noncon/dubcon
....

[Mikail · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who’s mind is always seeking unhinged an depraved with a HEA this is EXACTLY what I’ve been looking for.
Cal and Amber’s story is unconventional but beautiful. This book really made me question myself, broke my heart and pieced it back together.
This was my first Carly Claire book and it will definitely not be the last.

PLEASE read your triggers

[MorallyDarkReadz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gilded Game by Carly Claire – A Dark, Unflinching Tale of Resilience

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A Gilded Game” is a haunting and unrelenting exploration of power, survival, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. Carly Claire crafts a world where darkness isn't just a backdrop—it's a force that shapes every character and every choice.

The protagonist is a woman forged in the crucible of adversity. Her journey is not one of passive endurance but of active resistance. She faces betrayal, manipulation, and cruelty, yet she refuses to be broken. Instead of succumbing to the oppressive forces around her, she fights back with intelligence, courage, and an unwavering will to reclaim her agency.

The narrative is steeped in tension, with each chapter tightening the grip of suspense. The author's prose is sharp and evocative, capturing the grim realities of the world while highlighting the flickers of hope that emerge from the protagonist's defiance.

What stands out most is the emotional depth of the story. It's a tale that doesn't shy away from the harshness of its world but also celebrates the resilience of its characters. The protagonist's struggle is both heartbreaking and inspiring, making her victories all the more poignant.

In conclusion, A Gilded Game is a must-read for those who appreciate stories of strength in the face of darkness. Carly Claire has delivered a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is gripping, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.

[Jessica Benard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Carly for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of your book. Here is my review.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️.5

This was my first book by Carly and it’s in 1st person with different povs.
Please please check trigger warnings. This book has a lot of serial unaliving, noncon/dubcon , and mentally unwell characters.

Review:
What the heck was that!! I don’t think I have ever read a book like this one. The description leaves a lot of the book a secret. It’s dark and intense. We follow our MC Cal on his journey of fighting his beast who wants death to be satisfied, and loves having a human doll. FMC Amber is captured and becomes said doll, her trauma is so intense but provides for a great character building. Ugh I don’t want to say to much to give things away. Let’s just say it’s a must read to find out what happens. Ultimately Cals best friend Dex ( god that man is a saint for putting up with everything lol) helps him confront that what he is doing isn’t right and this is where Cal and Ambers story really picks up. Let’s just say it’s a book of revenge, healing, and finding that person to match your crazy.

I felt heartache, anger, maybe even cried some tears during this book. It really sucked me in towards the end. I did not see this book ending the way It did but thank-goodness It did!

Highly recommend for those who want dark and intense.

[Tonya Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! Definitely a must read. This book is DARK and not for the faint of heart! It is raw and twisted! Read the trigger warnings and take them to heart.

[Amanda Mustata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark, twisted, depraved… Check trigger warnings!!! And if they don’t bother you, dive in! Keep in mind, this is not for the weak hearted. Up, down, round and round. This book kept me on my toes. It kept me intrigued and glued to the pages. If you use trigger lists as a shopping list like I do, then dive in. But you have been warned 💜

[Kimberly Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Nelly! Read your trigger warnings! This book starts off strong with some whoa wtf moments but then you get to the psyche of Cal and Amber. She is strong but only when Cal bring that fierceness out and makes her see her strength. There is strength in healing, is how they met conventional, absolutely not, but the healing is true. Healing is not the same for everyone. So many good things that stood out one being “I think you have to be a little crazy to survive this world. If you aren’t, the world will bend you and break you until you are.” So true! Amber kept saying that two broken people couldn’t be together but their broken pieces seemed to fit and heal each other. Loved this book. I just had to get through the first part. Life is real and it is not all sunshine roses, it’s messy and it’s ugly. This first part does show the ugly parts but it does shine light on the beauty in the underbelly of crime. Find your little piece of light and heal.

[HighFaeFitWitch (Camille) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carly Claire you did it again!
*A Gilded Game is a DARK romance. It is not for the faint of heart and you should absolutely do your due diligence before diving it regarding your triggers.*

Amber and Cal… what can I even say without giving too much away.

The way Carly can weave her twisted web with these dark and spicy tales is otherworldly.

The twists and turns throughout this book really take you by surprise in the most deliciously depraved way. I 100% did not anticipate the major twist near the end.

I will be reading everything Carly has written because my depraved and unhinged mind recognizes her darkness in my own.

[Lauren Head · Rating 5 out of 5]

PLEASE READ YOUR TRIGGERS AND REMEMBER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IS IMPORTANT!

As someone who absolutely loves books that are unhinged an depraved with or without a HEA, this is EXACTLY what l've been looking for! The MC’s story is unconventional but beautiful. I questioned my sanity more times than not with this book but it was oh so worth it! This was my first Carly Claire book and it will definitely not be the last.

[Shawna Schrubb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book is amazing! A dark & twisted romance that will have you on the edge of your seat more than once.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They played a gilded game, using their privilege and wealth to destroy, to take, and to serve their greed.

I played a carnal game, one of blood and flesh, skin and sin. And I played it better.

[Britt Beil · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay. It was daaaark but I absolutely loved it. The writing was *chef's kiss* and the characters were horrifically wonderful. Skipped right over morally grey into morally black. This is not for the faint of heart but apparently I have zero triggers.

[Essence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I think it’s very well written. It’s visceral. So DARK. In parts it is absolutely heartbreaking. I think it touches and encapsulates a monsters mind so well. It really read so realistically. I was ensnared. I was shaken. I had my breath taken multiple times. It was a real look at Kink, mental health after tragedy, and love.

I adored it. Truly it’s not the easiest read if you haven’t read a dark read before but i do HIGHLY recommend it. Claire NEVER misses with her writing.🙏🏽

[Reanne Fuller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lemme just say that this was a RIDE..and if you have triggers and are not ok with mental health themes this is not for you.

The characters both have trauma and I like that it’s represented differently, because not everyone deals or shows it the same and I liked that it was represented the way it was.

I fell in love with both main characters, I relate to a lot of trauma characters so it was no surprise to me, the spice was amazing I don’t want to say too much I don’t want to spoil anything. ;)

One of my favorite parts was the dedication:

““For every fucking bitch who’s ever been told she cusses too much. The word ‘fuck’ appears some 482 times in approximately 300 pages. Here’s one more: You’re fucking welcome.””

It’s absolutely perfect

[Diamond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carly Claire has to have crack im her books, I'm convinced. Because there is no way her books are consistently amazing! Cal and Amber were everything and I ate this up!

This is told from dual POV and follows Cal and Amber. Both are mentally unstable in different ways and have both experienced heavy trauma throughout their lives. Cal is a wealthy man who's mental state is consistently declining and his darkness is starting to take over. He has some dark desires and finds a way to release them. Amber is a kidnapped and trafficked victim and is bought by Cal. He uses her to tame the beast but as they get to know each other more they start to realize their demons match. But its not easy as they deal with their darkness and their conflicting morals and emotions.

Even when you want to hate Cal, you can't. He's been through a lot and I put a few guesses to his mental illness but because he's dealing with it undiagnosed it's hard to pinpoint but he's not doing what he does for the enjoyment of the fallout. In his POVs it's obvious he's trying to control his impulses the best he can. But his dedication to Amber is so beautiful I was swooning with every page. I think my heart may have had arrhythmias throughout.

Amber is a badass. She's a fighter and a hard-core one at that. I loved her need to keep fighting and to fight back. She thought she was weak but in reality she's so strong to go through everything she did and come out on top. I sympathize with her mind the most. So even when her actions didn't seem logical, I understood that when your mind is pitted against you even when you know it makes no sense its a hard battle to win.

I absolutely loved the small crossover between this book and the Embrace the Darkness books. I almost choked when that caller called at the end because I miss those characters in that series!

The side characters; Dex, Katrina, and even the small amount of Parker were amazing. In such a dark world light can shine.

This book was amazing. Dark yes, but still absolutely captivating. Im convinced Carly writes nothing short of perfection!

Thank you Carly Claire for the ARC! I loved it!

[High Lady of Delulu · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

I struggle with rating this because it felt like two different books.

Even being categorized as dark romance, the first half was more on the side of horror erotica, which I was absolutely in the mood for. The premise was good and the level on which the story built up with the two POVs hit exactly like I wanted them to. So far, this was, without question, a five star story for me.
Then, however, it sort of morphed into a slightly softer kind of dark romance. Which I don’t mind, generally speaking, and usually even like. Somehow, though, for me at least that transition didn’t work so well with A Gilded Game.

I loved the MMC’s POV in particular. The way he almost felt like a victim, contrasted harshly by the reality of the FMC’s experiences, was an amazing build up to the inevitable clash. The escalation he approaches is as intriguing as it is daunting and left me with just the right level of conflict with my own supportive feelings.
I think the author did an amazing job with Cal, the intricacy of his psyche and her grasp on it really felt like he let her in and showed her his truth.

The FMC is the perfect counterpart. Amber’s journey is complicated (to say the least) in its own right and the pain and trauma she holds are the simultaneously the mirror and the fuel Cal needs and vice versa. I understood the stages she went through, saw the slow and sometimes inconspicuous journey she was unknowingly on.

I very much enjoyed their dynamic in a sense that I liked how they shaped each other, even if some aspects of the outcome weren't for me.
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate a dark romance that works through the healing journey and I can enjoy a plot twist like that last one. But again, it felt a bit off and I had to push myself to a large part of it. I think, however, that this is a very individual experience and I probably just had the wrong expectation after how the book started.

All that being said, I love Carly Claire’s writing and she is an amazing dark romance author in my opinion (Poisoning Ivy is still a book I love to recommend). And A Gilded Game is everything a really dark romance should be - Heavy on the trauma, pitch black in setting and mood, beyond any socially accepted concept of morals. On top of that, it’s perfectly spicy and will undoubtedly be loved by many dark romance readers.

Thank you to Booksirens and Carly Claire for an ARC of this book.

[Nikolett Berkiné Varga · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you so much for the ARC, this book was a spicy, bloody rollercoaster, and I was completely in for the ride.

The beginning had me like, okay wow… this is dark. And then there was this one moment where I actually said out loud, “Wait, are you serious right now?” I genuinely thought I have no idea what is happening and where we are going from there, and then Carly threw in a twist and I was like, ohhh okay, you almost got me there. I was stressed, intrigued, and fully hooked.

I’m not going to spoil anything, because honestly, if you're already on this page thinking about it, just read it. It’s one of those books that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. It's intense, emotional, and yes, it goes there.

This story is about getting your power back, battling your inner demons, finding forgiveness (even when it’s hard), and learning when to give it. It’s messy, powerful, and full of those moments where you just sit back and think, did that really just happen?

Amber, our FMC, has been through absolute hell, but she’s still standing and fighting. I adored her. She’s fierce, complicated, and refuses to be broken. Cal is completely unhinged in the best/worst way possessive, obsessive, and honestly a walking red flag wrapped in a big, irresistible black bow. And Dex? I need more Dex in my life. His loyalty and friendship, especially given the chaos around him, made him one of my favorite side characters.

The pacing is sharp, the tension stays high the entire time, and emotionally, it hits hard. I devoured this book.

One note: if you have triggers, please read the warnings first. This one dives deep into dark territory and doesn’t hold back.

[Dru · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🔥🔥🔥.5

I could not put this book down! Fair warning, this story is dark dark, and I devoured every bit of it.

We’re introduced to Amber, our fierce FMC, and Cal, the deeply twisted MMC. Cal constantly wrestles with the beast inside him, one that craves violence, not just through killing, but through torturing women he’s drawn to. While he's targeted men before, they were easy, uncomplicated. Women, however, spark something darker. To satisfy the monster within while staying under the radar, he turns to the dark web, ordering captive women to do with as he pleases. That’s how he finds Amber, his perfect little doll.

Amber was already kidnapped, waiting to be sold like property. But make no mistake, this is not for the faint of heart. She was seen as nothing more than a body to be used, tormented, and auctioned to the highest bidder. She has her own trauma, growing up bouncing between foster homes, hardened by a life that gave her no softness. But despite it all, she never stopped fighting. She often questioned whether life was worth living, but she refused to let anyone else decide that for her. She’s fiery, stubborn, and brave to the core.

Their story is as dark as it gets, it’s not sweet or romantic in the traditional sense. Cal does deeply disturbing things (check the trigger warnings), but in his own warped way, he loves her. She calms his beast. He tells her she’ll never be hurt again. That he’ll protect her. That she never needs to be afraid. But what happens when she starts wanting everything he promises, and even more?

This book had me in a chokehold. I fell hard for both characters, flaws and all. Are they broken? Absolutely. But together, they make sense in the most beautifully twisted way.

Highly recommend for readers who can handle intense darkness (think Phantom Black-level MMCs) and want to fall headfirst into an unhinged, obsessive romance.

⟣Tropes⟢
✅ Touch her and 💀
✅ 🖤 Morally Black MMC 🖤
✅ Obsessive/JP MMC
✅ Dual POV’s (first person)
✅ Captor/Captive
✅ No active sharing
✅ FMC not Virgin 😢
✅ Found Family
✅ He falls first
✅ Serial Unaliver
✅ MINE
✅ HEA

***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***

[L Leaver · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into A Gilded Game, expecting high-stakes tension and morally complex characters, but what I got was so much darker and more intense than I anticipated.
This book is psychologically gripping, pulling you into a world where power is a weapon, trust is a liability, and survival is never guaranteed.There were moments when I had to pause and process, because the emotional weight of certain scenes hit hard.

A Gilded Game is a psychological thriller with dark romance elements, weaving a tale of power, deception, and survival. The writing is visceral, the tension unrelenting, and the characters morally complex, making this book a gripping but intense read.

A Gilded Game explores the psychology of control, trauma, and resilience. It is both haunting and deeply immersive. If you enjoy dark, thought-provoking narratives with high emotional stakes, this book will keep you hooked.

Gilded Game is not for the faint of heart. This book is deeply unsettling, psychologically intense, and unapologetically dark. It explores power, manipulation, and survival in a world where trust is a dangerous game.
The tension is palpable, the characters are flawed and unpredictable, and the emotional weight is heavy.

⚠️ Trigger Warnings: (I can not claim to know all trigger warnings, so please make sure you ensure you consider your own trugger warnings before you start this book:
💫Manipulation & Psychological Abuse
🔪Non-consensual/Dubious Consent & Power Imbalance
🗡 Violence & Dark Themes
🧠 Mental Health Struggles

🔥 A must-read for fans of dark, intense storytelling—but approach with caution if sensitive to heavy themes. 🔥

[Jana Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Carly Claire did not come to play with this one.
I devoured my physical ARC of A Gilded Game and let me tell you—if you like your fiction morally bankrupt with a splash of feral romance, this book is your new best friend.

'𝚈𝚘𝚞'𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚘 𝚏𝚞𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎.'

Mentally unwell? Babe, they’re practically unhinged. Cal isn’t just battling his inner beast—he feeds it with death, devotion, and a human doll obsession that’ll make your spine tingle. Amber, his captured FMC, is trauma-wrapped and terrifyingly beautiful in her unraveling. The way she’s torn down and rebuilt? Chef’s kiss. Her strength doesn’t roar—it simmers, and it’s Cal who fans the flame until she burns.

'𝙶𝚘𝚘𝚍 𝚐𝚒𝚛𝚕. 𝚂𝚎𝚎? 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚜𝚘 𝚋𝚊𝚍. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚎.... 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜.'

It's a bloodstained love letter to revenge and ruin. Healing here is jagged and raw, not inspirational quotes and soft music. It’s the kind that claws its way through darkness and finds madness that matches.
'𝙸𝚏 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚊𝚍𝚟𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚕𝚕, 𝙸'𝚍 𝚜𝚒𝚖𝚙𝚕𝚢 𝚛𝚘𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚒𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚚𝚞𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚕𝚢.'

I had a full-blown meltdown nearing the end—rage, heartache, and then the ending I did not see coming. Thank the twisted gods it went there.

✨ Tropes:
- Killer MMC
- He falls first and he falls hard
- 🍇/noncon/dubcon that’ll have you clutching your pearls and rereading the page
- Revenge served cold
- Medical play
- Somnophilia with a side of “should I be into this?” 🫣

This isn't healing wrapped in sunshine—it's healing in chains, whispers, and cracked mirrors. If you want something depraved but still romantic, messy but meant, this one’s got its claws in you.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my lordy. Cal and Amber are delicious.

Before I get into this, let me start by saying thank you so much to Carly Claire for letting me get my hands on this early to read. I loved your writing and the way you keep the readers attention without knowing what is going to happen next.

Now, onto the review of the book...this is a bit of a dark themed romance that starts very much a bit alarming (Cal is is little crazy but we can forgive him because Amber is a little crazy too). Cal bought Amber to *delete* her and satiate his beast but little does he know just how much he will grow obsessed with keeping her and claiming her. He had 2 others before her that he..you know...but 3rd times the charm right?

Chapter 28 will have you like 🥵
The power exchange? 😫
The shift in dynamic? 🥺🩷
The last few chapters will have you like 😭


5/5 star read for me. Read smoothly, kept my attention, and had the perfect blend of spice and violent revenge.


Want an idea of that power dynamic? Keep reading.

"Show me your duality, Cal, and I'll show you all my scars. در

"But still, the fact she hasn't even screamed for help... Is she trying to reverse Stockholm syndrome me? Because I think it may be working."

"I want you to fuck me harder. If this is what your hate feels like, baby, you're not a monster. You're nothing but a coat hanging in the closet, shadows in the night..."

"I need you to be clothed for this, or I'm not going to be able to focus. All that blood on you... fuck. You're so goddamn gorgeous."

[Jordan Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book and I am so glad that I was!
Dark romance is something I’ve only recently dipped my toe into and have been experimenting with. Some books I’ve loved, others I’ve had to DNF or put in the “not reading that again” category; some were either too triggering for my trauma or the writing/characters just weren’t it for me.
All that to say that I LOVED this book. If you keep reading, you may see some spoilers but I’ll try to keep it as vague as possible. First off, definitely pay attention to the trigger warnings for this book. Some of it is pretty brutal and dark and definitely hit on some of my triggers, however, for me personally, I was able to still enjoy the book and keep reading.
One of my favorite parts of this book is that despite the brutal parts of it, it’s also HONEST. I feel like I’ve read quite a few dark romances where the MMC does awful things and it just gets glossed over or he’s treated like it’s no big deal or because he’s hot/rich/whatever he can do all these awful things and it just doesn’t matter. Reading this book wasn’t like that for me though. The MMC recognizes his wrongs and the FMC recognizes them too. It’s not glossed over, it’s addressed. Despite his wrongs, the MMC still ends up being a character that I like and that’s because of how well the author wrote him. I look forward to reading all of her books.

[Lizzy J · Rating 5 out of 5]

You did it again, Carly—and I may need therapy after this one. 😫

This is hands down one of my favorite reads! I was hooked from the very first page. The dark reality of human trafficking hits hard in the beginning, especially through Amber’s point of view. But once the story shifts and Cal receives her… I was completely consumed.

The way he battles his instincts—putting so much care into her while still contemplating killing her—was twisted, intense, and deeply emotional. It shows just how much her body began to crave him, even while her mind resisted. That dynamic was so well written.

I also loved how they evolved into their own vigilante couple, taking down those men in gruesome, unforgettable ways. Amber gave me major Sibby vibes (if you know, you know), especially when she helped Cal with their kills.

Now for the part that had me UGLY CRYING.
I had to physically put the book down more than once. Cal trying to kill himself to set Amber free? Absolutely heartbreaking. I felt shattered—not just for her, but for Dex too. And then him finding Parker for her!!! I was a mess.

I’m just so glad they got their happy ending. And even more glad I got to read their story.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, Groupon to therapy! Think we can get a discount? This book is WILD. Very, very wild. From start to finish, it packs a punch and takes no prisoners. Cal's mind is a devastating yet beautiful place to be in and I devoured his POV with the complexity of his mental state. Carly, girl, you outdid yourself with creating Cal. He's the most intoxicating blend of too much and not enough at the same time. He's everything you want and everything you didn't even know you needed. He blurs the lines of morality yet you can't help but love him. Amber is literally the definition of chaos and I LIVED for it. She's everything broken and superglued back together and I truly related to her in so many ways when it came to how she handled trauma. Her growth throughout the book is phenomenal and the attitude? I want to be her unhinged bestie. The banter is top notch and you can truly feel the absolute wreckage of everything throughout the book so be prepared for a rollercoaster. Cal and Amber are so beautifully tragic in their love and I will forever adore them for it. I can't wait to do a reread already! And the ending? I see what you did there... I know who you're hinting at.

[T ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I think Carly Claire’s work can’t impress me more it does!

The story of Amber and Cal is DARK but so so good. There is heavy mental health theming and if that is something that triggers you I’d recommend using caution.

Cal claims that he is a monster driven by his beast, causing him to do some truly unsavory things. (I mean wait until you see how he found Amber) However his character development and growth is eloquently described. He is still and will always be unhinged but he is able to recognize that he may not be the monster he thinks he is when it comes to Amber.

Amber is one of my favorite recent FMCs. She has been through so much trauma and turmoil. I mean the first few chapters of hers were honestly hard to stomach at points but necessary in my opinion. Her relationship with Cal shows her that not only is she not weak like she thinks but that she is truly capable of doing whatever she wants. Her growth was my favorite to read and I ADORE her sass.

This book has my heart, I couldn’t put it down. 10/10, honestly would read again!

[sycokittykat - Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A life of dissociating

Amber has been a play thing since she was young. She only ever had her "brother" to rely on. Just when they thought they had truly escaped the horrors they were captured by human traffickers.

Once Amber leaves her cage she has no clue what to expect. Her time is hazy but she feels cherished which makes no sense. Especially since she seems to be unable to come back to herself.

Cal has an insatiable need to be in control. Ever since he lost his brother "the beast" has been lurking and demanding. However, what it wants is something he shouldn't give it. So he makes a plan to buy someone that no one will miss. However, it takes some trial and error to find a balance. Except something seems to be shifting and he isn't sure how to handle that.

This is a story absolutely packed full of trauma. Both main characters have been through a lot. Is there ever a chance they may find something bigger or better than that trauma? Is there a light in all the darkness or will they be doomed to live and die in the dark?

[Krys WrathOfHarmony · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from page one and did not let go. It's not sweet. It's not safe. But it is the kind of story that burrows under your skin and stays there.

Amber is one of the fiercest heroines I’ve read in a long time—resilient, bold, and constantly fighting, even when the world tries to break her. And Cal? He’s the definition of morally black. Obsessive, dangerous, and entirely unhinged—but somehow, it works. Their connection is intense, dark, and all-consuming in the most hauntingly beautiful way.

This is definitely not a romance for the faint of heart. The author doesn’t pull punches with the content or the characters, and I appreciated that. If you enjoy obsessive MMCs, captor/captive dynamics, and stories that lean fully into the darkness while still delivering an HEA, then this one is a must-read.

Highly recommend—just make sure to check the trigger warnings first.

Tropes/Vibes You’ll Find:
✔️ Obsessive MMC
✔️ Touch her and 💀
✔️ Captor/Captive
✔️ He falls first
✔️ Morally black
✔️ Found family
✔️ Dual POV (first person)
✔️ HEA

[Carley Misener · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARCish Review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5, 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5

-Sòmno
-Sèrial Unalívíng
-Both are Mentally Unwell
-First Person POV: Dual
-He Falls First, and Harder

Wow. I have no words for how much I loved Cal and Ambers story. It starts out rocky, I didn’t know if I could love Cal as much as I know I do now. But damn, as I kept reading I realized more and more how good he is. Especially to Amber. He’s dark and twisty but that’s almost perfect for her. Amber just has a way of digging in and making you love her from the start. Her past is almost worse than Cal’s. And all the shit she’s been through but still pushed on. It’s beautiful. I’ve loved all of Carly Claire’s books and this was no different. Her writing style is perfect and she somehow hooks you in from the start so you never want it to end.

Overall I have to highly recommend this. But don’t forget to check the TW’s prior to reading as this is super dark!

[Michelle Muller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a RIDE and a half! First of all, this will not be for everyone - there's an extensive list of trigger warnings - so check those out. But if you love a read on the pitch black side of romance - this if for you. This is a new to me author - but I'm so glad I got to ARC read this book - because FMC Amber and MMC Cal - well they got trauma and between the two of them - they sucked me into their lives and will live rent free in my head and heart for awhile. And Carly Claire - not only did she write an amazing story - there were some truly funny, LOL moments in the book. There is also two awesome side characters, who maybe aren't pitch black, but they are a dark shade of grey that I hope we're going to get their story next!

[Tashii Sainsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Omg this book!!! 😱😱 I have no words! Carly you have SMASHED this book!

This book hooked me from the beginning, I couldn't put it down!

I absolutely love the storyline and how the characters are portrayed!

The feels, the twists and the plot! Omg! You need to read this! The last few chapters I had tears in my eyes 🥹.

Cal is a twisted man who's had a rough life and can't get out of a 'habit'. But he has a heart of gold.

Amber is a broken girl who doesn't know how to feel, every feeling is a blur to her and she deserves a better life.

But will she get her better life?

This is a must read! PLEASE READ THE TW's!!!

I need more of Cal and Amber!!! 🥹🖤

THAT ENDING!!!! 😱😱😱

[Taz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spicy, dark and full of psychøtîc pleasures

If you don't like nøncøn, sømnø, feminine räge, human träffîckîng, ünälîvîng - vëngëfül and psychøtîc. Then leave this alone.

Now, if you're still reading and that's right up your street... OMG 🙃 The spice is spicy and the vîølëncë is 🩸

Our beloved Amber gets täkën by strangers and thrown into a van... Only to end up with someone who only wants her to be his living, breathing smexy doll, but only so he can 💀 her afterwards. Just not a doll that will move, speak or say nø.

If you're not already a little 🥴😵‍💫 you may end up being by the time you've finished reading this. It's not for the faint of heart. But if you're like me and you like your trîggër menu long and dark... ENJOY 🖤