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Fruit of the Flesh
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Expected 20 Jan 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
20 days and 02:32:18
100 copies available
U.S. only
Behind the glamour of Gilded Age New York, a marriage of convenience between an artisan and a ballerina masks their shared appetite for revenge in this darkly seductive gothic romance.
In early 1900s New York, former ballerina Petronille De Villier makes an unconventional choice: Marry struggling sculptor Arkady Kamenev. For her, it’s an escape from her family’s unsavory legacy. For him, the De Villier name promises the patronage his art desperately needs. It should be a simple arrangement.
But beneath their marriage of convenience lurks a darker recognition. In each other, they see a reflection of their own dangerous appetites. As buried secrets surface and bodies begin disappearing, Petronille and Arkady discover their union runs deeper than social advantage. Their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear who is which.
Bound by law, God, and blood, they must decide if their monstrous natures will tear them apart or forge them into something terribly wonderful together. In a world where nothing is quite what it seems, two creatures of shadow learn that true love requires a taste for the macabre.
In early 1900s New York, former ballerina Petronille De Villier makes an unconventional choice: Marry struggling sculptor Arkady Kamenev. For her, it’s an escape from her family’s unsavory legacy. For him, the De Villier name promises the patronage his art desperately needs. It should be a simple arrangement.
But beneath their marriage of convenience lurks a darker recognition. In each other, they see a reflection of their own dangerous appetites. As buried secrets surface and bodies begin disappearing, Petronille and Arkady discover their union runs deeper than social advantage. Their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear who is which.
Bound by law, God, and blood, they must decide if their monstrous natures will tear them apart or forge them into something terribly wonderful together. In a world where nothing is quite what it seems, two creatures of shadow learn that true love requires a taste for the macabre.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 20, 2026
19906 people want to read
About the author
I.V. Ophelia
5 books1,861 followersI.V. Ophelia is the author of the gothic vampire series The Poisoner. Born in small-town New England, she now haunts the streets of New York City, writing the most unhinged tales she can conjure. When not crafting gothic romance, she works as a full-time artist, hoards nineteenth-century gowns and antique furniture, dotes on her menagerie of pets, and plots her next literary transgression.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
September 1, 2025
Thank you so so much I.V. Ophelia for the opportunity to ARC read!! <3
This beautifully dark and gritty gothic romance consumed me, I could not put this down. The writing was beautiful, poetic and atmospheric. There was so much intrigue and the perfect amount of mystery which made reading this almost like solving a puzzle, I was picking up every piece of information that's gradually fed to us throughout this story to bring together the final picture.
I am obsessed with the themes and imagery in this, the overarching theme of hunger, wanting, desire. The characters Petronille and Arkady are complex with imperfections and each their own secrets. The spice in this was unhinged (the best kind) and often left me picking my jaw up off the floor.
Such a good gothic romance standalone!
This beautifully dark and gritty gothic romance consumed me, I could not put this down. The writing was beautiful, poetic and atmospheric. There was so much intrigue and the perfect amount of mystery which made reading this almost like solving a puzzle, I was picking up every piece of information that's gradually fed to us throughout this story to bring together the final picture.
I am obsessed with the themes and imagery in this, the overarching theme of hunger, wanting, desire. The characters Petronille and Arkady are complex with imperfections and each their own secrets. The spice in this was unhinged (the best kind) and often left me picking my jaw up off the floor.
Such a good gothic romance standalone!
August 27, 2025
When I tell you that the writing in this book is literal poetry, I am not lying. The mystery, the suspense, the romance, the tension. I loved every aspect of it. The way I felt like I was in 1900s New York with these characters was insane.
December 2, 2025
I.V. Ophelia is a writer who doesn’t just write nonfiction, she writes actual poetry. I love when I am reading a book, and it feels so much more than a dark romance. It’s almost dreamlike, like you are stepping into the 1900’s itself and experienced how dark and gritty it was. This is a true dark gothic romance with themes of gore, people who are full of secrets, and secret identities.
The story opens with a marriage between two strangers who are seemingly attracted to one another, or may even come to care for each other, but nothing is ever how it seems, and they not only have their own secrets, but also have extremely dark pasts. When we met Patronille, you soon come to realize that something is off about her. You can tell that she is keeping something from us and isn’t giving us the whole picture of what her story is and her “affliction.”
Arkady was someone that Patroneille needed in her life. He had such a bold and confidant personality that I felt like he kept her grounded and showed her how to grow and to become a better version of herself. He always made sure she was taken care of and would come to her rescue like a dark knight, ugh. Just *swoon* I knew he had a dark past, especially with how his personality was and how he had no issues with his method of drawing, IYKYK.
In true Ophelia fashion, the ending took me by complete surprise, and I was shocked. In a way to sum this book up, it was complete unhinged, but in the absolute best way possible. The spice was dark and deprived, the characters were so unhinged and morbid, but they somehow fit together so perfectly and found that were exactly what each other needed. This story was so beautifully dark and captivating, and I cannot wait for mor people to read it and devour it the way I did.
“I want you,” I said quietly. “I need you,” he replied raggedly, keeping me tight against the door.
“Tell me to stop.” His voice was strained. “Stop holding back,” I begged. “I want all of you, every last unsavory piece of you.” He grunted and left love bites down my shoulder, the back of my neck. “I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
Fruit of the Flesh will be out on January 20, 2026!
*Thank you so so much to NetGalley, Montlake, and the incredible I. V. Ophelia for the ARC!*
The story opens with a marriage between two strangers who are seemingly attracted to one another, or may even come to care for each other, but nothing is ever how it seems, and they not only have their own secrets, but also have extremely dark pasts. When we met Patronille, you soon come to realize that something is off about her. You can tell that she is keeping something from us and isn’t giving us the whole picture of what her story is and her “affliction.”
Arkady was someone that Patroneille needed in her life. He had such a bold and confidant personality that I felt like he kept her grounded and showed her how to grow and to become a better version of herself. He always made sure she was taken care of and would come to her rescue like a dark knight, ugh. Just *swoon* I knew he had a dark past, especially with how his personality was and how he had no issues with his method of drawing, IYKYK.
In true Ophelia fashion, the ending took me by complete surprise, and I was shocked. In a way to sum this book up, it was complete unhinged, but in the absolute best way possible. The spice was dark and deprived, the characters were so unhinged and morbid, but they somehow fit together so perfectly and found that were exactly what each other needed. This story was so beautifully dark and captivating, and I cannot wait for mor people to read it and devour it the way I did.
“I want you,” I said quietly. “I need you,” he replied raggedly, keeping me tight against the door.
“Tell me to stop.” His voice was strained. “Stop holding back,” I begged. “I want all of you, every last unsavory piece of you.” He grunted and left love bites down my shoulder, the back of my neck. “I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
Fruit of the Flesh will be out on January 20, 2026!
*Thank you so so much to NetGalley, Montlake, and the incredible I. V. Ophelia for the ARC!*
September 18, 2025
2.75 ★— If I had to sum up Fruit of the Flesh in one phrase, it would be: style over substance.
It’s got an interesting setup, some cool character ideas, a gorgeous cover, and lines of dialogue and descriptions that would look great on a moodboard or in an aesthetic quote post. But when it came to actually putting all of that together into a story, it just didn’t work for me.
Set in early 1900s New York, the book follows Petronille de Villier, a 24-year-old former ballerina from a wealthy family. She’s lived a life of privilege, but also of various forms of abuse under her parents. When she marries clay artisan Arkady Kamenev, it’s a quiet rebellion against their expectations and as the story goes on, the two of them uncover the hidden darkness in each other, turning their marriage of convenience into something more.
The problem is that the story feels disjointed. The book drops us straight into Petronille’s wedding day, and from there it’s like being handed little snapshots: glimpses of conversations, flashes of darkness, moments that could’ve been powerful. But without the grounding or buildup that makes you care, those moments never really land — or at least didn’t land for me. There’s almost no sense of the world or the characters’ pasts, so instead of feeling immersed, I felt detached and couldn’t quite get pulled into the narrative.
And that’s what really disappointed me, because the ideas are fantastic. A sculptor with a dark penchant, a traumatized ballerina with twisted family baggage, macabre undertones woven into their relationship, some exploration of kink… it’s exactly the kind of thing I would love to really get lost in. As someone who grew up a teenager fascinated with Perfume by Patrick Süskind and enjoys exploring messed-up characters, I should’ve and wanted to like this. But it mostly just bored me, because the thriller and horror aspect didn’t really go deep enough for me and the romance, while sometimes delivering scenes with some pretty prose, didn’t convince me either, because of the general disconnect to the story I felt during my read.
I think readers who are already fans of this author will find what they’re looking for here, but for me it just didn’t hit the way I hoped. Great ideas, interesting setup, but ultimately not enough depth to keep me invested.
________________________
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
It’s got an interesting setup, some cool character ideas, a gorgeous cover, and lines of dialogue and descriptions that would look great on a moodboard or in an aesthetic quote post. But when it came to actually putting all of that together into a story, it just didn’t work for me.
Set in early 1900s New York, the book follows Petronille de Villier, a 24-year-old former ballerina from a wealthy family. She’s lived a life of privilege, but also of various forms of abuse under her parents. When she marries clay artisan Arkady Kamenev, it’s a quiet rebellion against their expectations and as the story goes on, the two of them uncover the hidden darkness in each other, turning their marriage of convenience into something more.
The problem is that the story feels disjointed. The book drops us straight into Petronille’s wedding day, and from there it’s like being handed little snapshots: glimpses of conversations, flashes of darkness, moments that could’ve been powerful. But without the grounding or buildup that makes you care, those moments never really land — or at least didn’t land for me. There’s almost no sense of the world or the characters’ pasts, so instead of feeling immersed, I felt detached and couldn’t quite get pulled into the narrative.
And that’s what really disappointed me, because the ideas are fantastic. A sculptor with a dark penchant, a traumatized ballerina with twisted family baggage, macabre undertones woven into their relationship, some exploration of kink… it’s exactly the kind of thing I would love to really get lost in. As someone who grew up a teenager fascinated with Perfume by Patrick Süskind and enjoys exploring messed-up characters, I should’ve and wanted to like this. But it mostly just bored me, because the thriller and horror aspect didn’t really go deep enough for me and the romance, while sometimes delivering scenes with some pretty prose, didn’t convince me either, because of the general disconnect to the story I felt during my read.
I think readers who are already fans of this author will find what they’re looking for here, but for me it just didn’t hit the way I hoped. Great ideas, interesting setup, but ultimately not enough depth to keep me invested.
________________________
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 7, 2025
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for offering me an eARC in exchange of a review!
Fruit of the Flesh is a another dark delicacy from I.V. Ophelia I couldn't wait to consume.
Taking place during the Gilded Age, an ex-ballerina and a sculptor bind themselves to a marriage of convenience for their own selfish desires, what could possibly go wrong?
I can say both morbid curiosity and I.V. Ophelia's entrancing writing had me flipping through the pages to unfold what lies beneath the façade of Petronille De Villier and her elusive new husband, Arkady Kamenev.
It took a while to figure them out but I did not expect the "twist". Absolutely flabbergasted I'm disappointed in myself that I did not piece it together.
Maybe that has more to do with the fact that I felt as if I randomly stumbled into a story from the very start and forced myself to be patient until I could get a feel of where the story was headed. I wouldn't say it felt disjointed as much as it felt abrupt.
Although the book did take place during the Gilded Age, I wouldn't describe anything as gilded thanks to its gothic backdrop. As if something much darker and haunting was looming.
While it is a marriage of convenience and what could've been a story of rags to riches for a struggling sculptor like Arkady, he finds himself tangled into the web of his wife and in-laws' mysteries and darkest secrets.
To Petre this marriage was an opening performance of defiance and she was the perfect muse to Arkady whose artisan hands sculpted her desires and unfurled her body's cravings—both erotic and morbid.
It had many elements I enjoy in an I.V. Ophelia book, who splendidly crafts such dark romances, however I was left with wanting more or wish some of it had been fleshed out enough. Especially in the first half.
You can find the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. This is definitely a dark book with content that might be triggering for sensitive readers or readers with specific triggers.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for offering me an eARC in exchange of a review!
Fruit of the Flesh is a another dark delicacy from I.V. Ophelia I couldn't wait to consume.
Taking place during the Gilded Age, an ex-ballerina and a sculptor bind themselves to a marriage of convenience for their own selfish desires, what could possibly go wrong?
I can say both morbid curiosity and I.V. Ophelia's entrancing writing had me flipping through the pages to unfold what lies beneath the façade of Petronille De Villier and her elusive new husband, Arkady Kamenev.
It took a while to figure them out but I did not expect the "twist". Absolutely flabbergasted I'm disappointed in myself that I did not piece it together.
Maybe that has more to do with the fact that I felt as if I randomly stumbled into a story from the very start and forced myself to be patient until I could get a feel of where the story was headed. I wouldn't say it felt disjointed as much as it felt abrupt.
Although the book did take place during the Gilded Age, I wouldn't describe anything as gilded thanks to its gothic backdrop. As if something much darker and haunting was looming.
While it is a marriage of convenience and what could've been a story of rags to riches for a struggling sculptor like Arkady, he finds himself tangled into the web of his wife and in-laws' mysteries and darkest secrets.
To Petre this marriage was an opening performance of defiance and she was the perfect muse to Arkady whose artisan hands sculpted her desires and unfurled her body's cravings—both erotic and morbid.
It had many elements I enjoy in an I.V. Ophelia book, who splendidly crafts such dark romances, however I was left with wanting more or wish some of it had been fleshed out enough. Especially in the first half.
You can find the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. This is definitely a dark book with content that might be triggering for sensitive readers or readers with specific triggers.
Currently reading
August 28, 2025update: Aug. 28
okay seriously, only 10% in, and this is one of the hottest books with the most orgasmic writing i've ever read
----------------------------
*rubs hands together like a fly*
THIS BOOK IS GOING TO HE MY ENTIRE PERSONALITY GOODBYE. IM SO HERE FOR MY LOML OPHELIA AND THE HOTNESS THAT WILL BE IN THIS BOOK 😩🩷
sculptor x ballerina ? SAY LESSSS🩰
🍑 Standalone
🩰 HEA
🍑 Ex-Ballerina × Sculptor
🩰 Marriage of Convenience
🍑 1901 NYC
🩰 Murder and Mystery
🍑 Proper BDSM Practices
🩰 Themes of Autonomy, anti-capitalism, not-so-polite society, toxic families
okay seriously, only 10% in, and this is one of the hottest books with the most orgasmic writing i've ever read
----------------------------
*rubs hands together like a fly*
THIS BOOK IS GOING TO HE MY ENTIRE PERSONALITY GOODBYE. IM SO HERE FOR MY LOML OPHELIA AND THE HOTNESS THAT WILL BE IN THIS BOOK 😩🩷
sculptor x ballerina ? SAY LESSSS🩰
🍑 Standalone
🩰 HEA
🍑 Ex-Ballerina × Sculptor
🩰 Marriage of Convenience
🍑 1901 NYC
🩰 Murder and Mystery
🍑 Proper BDSM Practices
🩰 Themes of Autonomy, anti-capitalism, not-so-polite society, toxic families
August 26, 2025
My jaw? On the FLOOR.
WTH OPHELIA!?? I was not expecting that ending at ALL. Oh my god.
This.. this surprised me in the best of ways. This is my first I.V. Ophelia, but definitely won’t be the last. It’s probably one of the most unique plot lines I’ve ever read.
When I tell you the fact that he buries a body for her is just A SCRATCH of what’s to come… I mean it.
The writing immediately pulls you into this golden, dream-like gothic setting. I genuinely felt the sun on my cheeks, peaking through the canopy and shrubs. You’re thrown into a marriage happening between two strangers, but they end up much more entwined by their secrets than they could ever imagine.
I liked how when we get to know Petronille, there’s always this nagging feeling: ‘she’s not telling us something’ or ‘she has more to her than meets the eye’. She never backs down from a challenge, and she says it when she doesn’t think something is right.
Arkady is the perfect person for Petronille. He complements her personality, never judging her, but allowing the best environment for her to grow. He makes her feel safe and comfortable, regularly making sure she’s getting what she wants.
The way everything is described, from the theater’s ambiance to the vibrance of the fruit, to the horrific events, it just makes you feel so immersed. All your senses are turned on, and everything mentioned feels alluring.
That being said please understand that this contains some dark themes so you may want to look into that. You’ll definitely have a… b🩸🩸🩸dy good time that’s for sure.
Thank you so much to montlake for this earc.
WTH OPHELIA!?? I was not expecting that ending at ALL. Oh my god.
This.. this surprised me in the best of ways. This is my first I.V. Ophelia, but definitely won’t be the last. It’s probably one of the most unique plot lines I’ve ever read.
When I tell you the fact that he buries a body for her is just A SCRATCH of what’s to come… I mean it.
The writing immediately pulls you into this golden, dream-like gothic setting. I genuinely felt the sun on my cheeks, peaking through the canopy and shrubs. You’re thrown into a marriage happening between two strangers, but they end up much more entwined by their secrets than they could ever imagine.
I liked how when we get to know Petronille, there’s always this nagging feeling: ‘she’s not telling us something’ or ‘she has more to her than meets the eye’. She never backs down from a challenge, and she says it when she doesn’t think something is right.
Arkady is the perfect person for Petronille. He complements her personality, never judging her, but allowing the best environment for her to grow. He makes her feel safe and comfortable, regularly making sure she’s getting what she wants.
The way everything is described, from the theater’s ambiance to the vibrance of the fruit, to the horrific events, it just makes you feel so immersed. All your senses are turned on, and everything mentioned feels alluring.
That being said please understand that this contains some dark themes so you may want to look into that. You’ll definitely have a… b🩸🩸🩸dy good time that’s for sure.
Thank you so much to montlake for this earc.
September 5, 2025
Thank you Montlake, NetGalley and I. V. Ophelia for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I devoured this!!! And even this might be an understatement as I read the book in about 4 and a half hours!!! Literally couldn't put it down.
This was the best gothic horror and I would have NEVER predicted where it was going. I will never look at a peach the same after reading it!
The writing was sooo beautiful and captivating, the characters were soo well written and the spice definitely delivered!
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I devoured this!!! And even this might be an understatement as I read the book in about 4 and a half hours!!! Literally couldn't put it down.
This was the best gothic horror and I would have NEVER predicted where it was going. I will never look at a peach the same after reading it!
The writing was sooo beautiful and captivating, the characters were soo well written and the spice definitely delivered!
October 1, 2025
Um???? Well the ending was genuinely INSANE and very shocking, I literally felt sick. Almost thought I missed a content warning but I guess it would be a spoiler to have it listed there??? Still...
Honestly, I wasn't hooked right away but the moment I reached 19%, I was so invested! I was really curious on how Arkady and Petronille's relationship would develop and found Arkady to be really sweet. But then around the 60% mark... I got bored again and tbh it was a struggle getting to the end. Hence, the overall 3 star rating.
I do feel like Petronille and Arkady didn't really have chemistry tbh. I get that Petronille's childhood is the result of how she is right now, but I can't deny that her character really annoyed me. I wish I could've liked her😭 Arkady I liked at first but also that turned into disinterest after a certain point mostly because their relationship was boring to me. Their individual characters were very underdeveloped in my opinion.
Also, it kind of felt like the plot was all over the place?? Like I thought I was missing something but no it really was just confusing. And the ending genuinely was so random and I guess looking back it makes sense now but still super random??? That reveal was very disgusting and I know that's the point but I guess learned I don't like reading about that!! But uh yeah, it was alright in the end. 3 stars for at least keeping me interest for a good amount of the book. Oh also, the art is super pretty!!
Thank you Montlake for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
Honestly, I wasn't hooked right away but the moment I reached 19%, I was so invested! I was really curious on how Arkady and Petronille's relationship would develop and found Arkady to be really sweet. But then around the 60% mark... I got bored again and tbh it was a struggle getting to the end. Hence, the overall 3 star rating.
I do feel like Petronille and Arkady didn't really have chemistry tbh. I get that Petronille's childhood is the result of how she is right now, but I can't deny that her character really annoyed me. I wish I could've liked her😭 Arkady I liked at first but also that turned into disinterest after a certain point mostly because their relationship was boring to me. Their individual characters were very underdeveloped in my opinion.
Also, it kind of felt like the plot was all over the place?? Like I thought I was missing something but no it really was just confusing. And the ending genuinely was so random and I guess looking back it makes sense now but still super random??? That reveal was very disgusting and I know that's the point but I guess learned I don't like reading about that!! But uh yeah, it was alright in the end. 3 stars for at least keeping me interest for a good amount of the book. Oh also, the art is super pretty!!
Thank you Montlake for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
Want to read
June 6, 2025IM SEATED ✨✨
August 29, 2025
•ARC review•
Release date: January 20th, 2026
Genre: gothic, dark romance
‘’Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.’’
I’m obsessed.
I.V. Ophelia did it again.
The vibes, the themes, the tropes, everything was morbidly on point. Ophelia is talented at creating tangible atmosphere that feels like a hug while simultaneously leaving you slightly uneasy. I would absolutely love to be absorbed by her books. Her characters are fleshed out and relatable to some extent. She said she would feed us alright and she did indeed.
“My dear, you are going to learn very quickly that I am most certainly worse than any man you know. Take comfort that you have such a force on your side.”
Arkady and Petronille were delightful. Their relationship was reservedly unhinged and sweet. For a long time, Arkady was on the fence, reserved, tough to crack. But oh my did he exude such sexiness, confidence. I fell in love so fast. Him wearing glasses while reading sealed the deal for me. Amongst a multitude of other reasons, of course. He was just such an immovable pillar.
‘’What was it like to be perceived by someone whose entire life was art? Would he see the beauty in my potential, or would he just see raw material?’’
In contrast, Petronille was such a brat, loud and throwing tantrums, clearly having underlying issues to deal with, namely self-esteem ones that Arkady was set on working on with her. Lets face it; her family left much to be desired. Petronille was a bit unhinged and impulsive, which irked Arkady but ultimately he couldn’t resist. Neither did I. Their moments together felt exquisitely intimate, I wish we got a little more of them.
“I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
I will say it again: anything Ophelia provides to us, I consume. And I consume it greedily.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Montlake and Ophelia’s team for the arc.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 /5
Spicy
•Gothic romance
•Mystery and suspense
•Horror
•Marriage of convenience
•BD$M
Release date: January 20th, 2026
Genre: gothic, dark romance
‘’Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.’’
I’m obsessed.
I.V. Ophelia did it again.
The vibes, the themes, the tropes, everything was morbidly on point. Ophelia is talented at creating tangible atmosphere that feels like a hug while simultaneously leaving you slightly uneasy. I would absolutely love to be absorbed by her books. Her characters are fleshed out and relatable to some extent. She said she would feed us alright and she did indeed.
“My dear, you are going to learn very quickly that I am most certainly worse than any man you know. Take comfort that you have such a force on your side.”
Arkady and Petronille were delightful. Their relationship was reservedly unhinged and sweet. For a long time, Arkady was on the fence, reserved, tough to crack. But oh my did he exude such sexiness, confidence. I fell in love so fast. Him wearing glasses while reading sealed the deal for me. Amongst a multitude of other reasons, of course. He was just such an immovable pillar.
‘’What was it like to be perceived by someone whose entire life was art? Would he see the beauty in my potential, or would he just see raw material?’’
In contrast, Petronille was such a brat, loud and throwing tantrums, clearly having underlying issues to deal with, namely self-esteem ones that Arkady was set on working on with her. Lets face it; her family left much to be desired. Petronille was a bit unhinged and impulsive, which irked Arkady but ultimately he couldn’t resist. Neither did I. Their moments together felt exquisitely intimate, I wish we got a little more of them.
“I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
I will say it again: anything Ophelia provides to us, I consume. And I consume it greedily.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Montlake and Ophelia’s team for the arc.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 /5
Spicy
•Gothic romance
•Mystery and suspense
•Horror
•Marriage of convenience
•BD$M
Want to read
November 1, 2025
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!*
Tropes that makes me more excited for the book:
- Brat/ Brat tamer
- Marriage of Convience
- Rich Girl x Gold Digger
- Ballerina FMC x Sculptor MMC
- Artist x Muse
- They'd kill for each other
- Gilded age NYC
- Dual POV
Tropes that makes me more excited for the book:
- Brat/ Brat tamer
- Marriage of Convience
- Rich Girl x Gold Digger
- Ballerina FMC x Sculptor MMC
- Artist x Muse
- They'd kill for each other
- Gilded age NYC
- Dual POV
August 23, 2025
“Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.”
This line from the book really sums up my experience with it. Honestly, it has been my muse for a while now. Even before I read it, I was making edits about it. Finally getting to read it only confirmed why. It’s every bit as inspiring and beautiful as I hoped. I’ve been waiting almost a year for this book, so finally getting my hands on it felt surreal. Even though I haven’t had much time to read lately, I knew I had to make space for this one. And wow, it was worth it. Ophelia’s writing is so immersive and lyrical, but also easy to follow. It pulls you straight into the story without feeling heavy.
The vibes were exactly what I imagined from the blurb and all the stunning artworks the author shared beforehand. Everything about the atmosphere felt cohesive, rich, and aesthetically pleasing.
And the characters? I’m obsessed. Arkady has me in a chokehold fr. He completely ate. His personality surprised me in the best way, and I am a total simp. He is bold & confident in who he is & that was everything. He’s exactly what Petre needed.
Watching Petre’s growth, though, was so rewarding. She needed someone who could understand her, love her, value her & help her shine the way she’s meant to, and Arkady did just that. That man truly loved her and it was so cute.
“I want you,” I said quietly.
“I need you,” he replied
MHMMMM. HE IS A SIMP.
Together, they’re such a perfect match. Their relationship felt genuine, full of growth, and just so cute. Plus… they’re hotttt🫦
I can’t wait for more people to meet these two. I know they’re going to fall in love with them too.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This line from the book really sums up my experience with it. Honestly, it has been my muse for a while now. Even before I read it, I was making edits about it. Finally getting to read it only confirmed why. It’s every bit as inspiring and beautiful as I hoped. I’ve been waiting almost a year for this book, so finally getting my hands on it felt surreal. Even though I haven’t had much time to read lately, I knew I had to make space for this one. And wow, it was worth it. Ophelia’s writing is so immersive and lyrical, but also easy to follow. It pulls you straight into the story without feeling heavy.
The vibes were exactly what I imagined from the blurb and all the stunning artworks the author shared beforehand. Everything about the atmosphere felt cohesive, rich, and aesthetically pleasing.
And the characters? I’m obsessed. Arkady has me in a chokehold fr. He completely ate. His personality surprised me in the best way, and I am a total simp. He is bold & confident in who he is & that was everything. He’s exactly what Petre needed.
Watching Petre’s growth, though, was so rewarding. She needed someone who could understand her, love her, value her & help her shine the way she’s meant to, and Arkady did just that. That man truly loved her and it was so cute.
“I want you,” I said quietly.
“I need you,” he replied
MHMMMM. HE IS A SIMP.
Together, they’re such a perfect match. Their relationship felt genuine, full of growth, and just so cute. Plus… they’re hotttt🫦
I can’t wait for more people to meet these two. I know they’re going to fall in love with them too.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
August 26, 2025
- sculptor x ballerina
- standalone
- gothic horrormance
- anti-capitalistic
- 1901 NYC
- mystery, murder, macabre
- mental health & family trauma
- on-page spice in chapters 9,11,14,,19,21,23,31,36
OH. MY. F*CKING GOD.
I don't know what to say???? LIKE THAT WAS THE MOST PERFECT GOTHIC HORROR AND I COULDN'T HAVE, IN NINE LIVES, PREDICTED WHERE IT WAS GOING. I'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO LOOK AT A PEACH, THE STONE FRUIT OF MY CHOICE THE SAME. I'M IN AWE. I'M SO SO OBSESSED THIS IS WHAT CLASSICS ARE MADE OF. PERFECTION IM JUST I HAD TO COME HERE AND SCREAM LIKE WOAH.
I don't know what to write in my review because NO WORDS COULD EVER DESCRIBE HOW PHENOMENALLY PENNED THIS GOTHIC DARK HORRORMANCE IS????? TOP TIER STORYTELLING, THIS IS WHAT THE GENRE WAS ALWAYS MEANT TO BE. Ophelia's writing is so gorgeous and timeless, I am forever undone by this book. I have this thing where I forget most of the things that happened in a book/show a few months after consuming it and so, a reread/rewatch almost feels like reading it afresh. With Fruit of the Flesh: I do NOT possess the patience to reread it. I want to forget about it RIGHT NOW and reread it right now. I SAW MYSELF IN PETRE, UNHINGED AS SHE GREW TO BE. Go lose yourself in this impeccable dark gothic tale of the artisan and the performer and don't forget to check the CWs lovelies <3
- standalone
- gothic horrormance
- anti-capitalistic
- 1901 NYC
- mystery, murder, macabre
- mental health & family trauma
- on-page spice in chapters 9,11,14,,19,21,23,31,36
OH. MY. F*CKING GOD.
I don't know what to say???? LIKE THAT WAS THE MOST PERFECT GOTHIC HORROR AND I COULDN'T HAVE, IN NINE LIVES, PREDICTED WHERE IT WAS GOING. I'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO LOOK AT A PEACH, THE STONE FRUIT OF MY CHOICE THE SAME. I'M IN AWE. I'M SO SO OBSESSED THIS IS WHAT CLASSICS ARE MADE OF. PERFECTION IM JUST I HAD TO COME HERE AND SCREAM LIKE WOAH.
I don't know what to write in my review because NO WORDS COULD EVER DESCRIBE HOW PHENOMENALLY PENNED THIS GOTHIC DARK HORRORMANCE IS????? TOP TIER STORYTELLING, THIS IS WHAT THE GENRE WAS ALWAYS MEANT TO BE. Ophelia's writing is so gorgeous and timeless, I am forever undone by this book. I have this thing where I forget most of the things that happened in a book/show a few months after consuming it and so, a reread/rewatch almost feels like reading it afresh. With Fruit of the Flesh: I do NOT possess the patience to reread it. I want to forget about it RIGHT NOW and reread it right now. I SAW MYSELF IN PETRE, UNHINGED AS SHE GREW TO BE. Go lose yourself in this impeccable dark gothic tale of the artisan and the performer and don't forget to check the CWs lovelies <3
September 19, 2025
“all the humility in the world couldn’t compete with the idealistic vision of a lover. to him, i was art. but only to him, and i believed that was enough.”
no one writes characters who will literally haunt your every waking thought like i.v. ophelia. i adore this book and these characters SO much. i.v. immediately captivates you with her poetic prose, and transports you to 1901 nyc. the atmosphere is equally gritty, haunting, and beautiful. the reader doesn’t get a ton of backstory on the characters in the beginning (they are married right away) which seemed polarizing at first - however, looking back i personally loved this dynamic as the reader. it felt like i was also navigating the arrangement of their marriage, and was able to peel back their deeper layers alongside them as the story progressed. and there are A LOT of layers! these two are raw, compassionate, and irresistibly insatiable together 🤭🤍
“their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear which is which” is the PERFECT way to describe the dynamic between these two, and i ate it up!! some of the situations petre walked into had me on the edge of my seat, and the reveals near the end?? let’s just say it was unexpected in the way only ophelia can deliver, sharp, unpredictable, and then devastatingly romantic 🥹 their story was wrapped up so perfectly imo. i will be thinking about these two for a long time!
thank you so much i.v. ophelia, netgalley, and montlake for gifting me a copy of this arc. i can’t wait to hold a physical copy in my hands! 🤍
if you’re looking for -
• dark gothic romance
• dual pov
• standalone / hea
• quality > quantity
• murder & mystery
• ex ballerina x sculptor
• marriage of convenience
• brat taming & proper bdsm practices
no one writes characters who will literally haunt your every waking thought like i.v. ophelia. i adore this book and these characters SO much. i.v. immediately captivates you with her poetic prose, and transports you to 1901 nyc. the atmosphere is equally gritty, haunting, and beautiful. the reader doesn’t get a ton of backstory on the characters in the beginning (they are married right away) which seemed polarizing at first - however, looking back i personally loved this dynamic as the reader. it felt like i was also navigating the arrangement of their marriage, and was able to peel back their deeper layers alongside them as the story progressed. and there are A LOT of layers! these two are raw, compassionate, and irresistibly insatiable together 🤭🤍
“their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear which is which” is the PERFECT way to describe the dynamic between these two, and i ate it up!! some of the situations petre walked into had me on the edge of my seat, and the reveals near the end?? let’s just say it was unexpected in the way only ophelia can deliver, sharp, unpredictable, and then devastatingly romantic 🥹 their story was wrapped up so perfectly imo. i will be thinking about these two for a long time!
thank you so much i.v. ophelia, netgalley, and montlake for gifting me a copy of this arc. i can’t wait to hold a physical copy in my hands! 🤍
if you’re looking for -
• dark gothic romance
• dual pov
• standalone / hea
• quality > quantity
• murder & mystery
• ex ballerina x sculptor
• marriage of convenience
• brat taming & proper bdsm practices
September 12, 2025
Let’s start with I.V. Ophelia is a must read author for me so when I got the opportunity to read the ARC for this book I was so excited. First and foremost the cover is beautiful and captivating. I love it.
As for the story itself, I have mixed emotions. I love the authors writing style, the way there was a little mystery sprinkled in here and there, the pieces didn’t even click into place until the end for me and I was shocked. I appreciated that the story wasn’t predictable at all, it truly had my mouth agape the last 10%.
As for the characters… I feel so deeply for Petronille, what a poor soul. I’m so glad she had Arkady. They are a perfect match.
As for the story itself, I have mixed emotions. I love the authors writing style, the way there was a little mystery sprinkled in here and there, the pieces didn’t even click into place until the end for me and I was shocked. I appreciated that the story wasn’t predictable at all, it truly had my mouth agape the last 10%.
As for the characters… I feel so deeply for Petronille, what a poor soul. I’m so glad she had Arkady. They are a perfect match.
September 17, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A haunting narrative that flows around themes of injustice, control, fear and desire.
I.V. Ophelia's prose is dreamy and compelling, poetic and moving in the way it grabs your attention and holds it there, forces you to look, to bear witness, to stare unflinching into the open mouth of romance and horror. I raced through the first half of the novel in a fevered state, desperate to see how the relationship between Petronille and Arkady would evolve and grow. I loved watching as she allowed herself to soften in his presence, and he in turn, allowed her to stand on her own, protecting her from the shadows. This is a romance that is painted in shades of gray, without the pressures of conforming to traditional morality or ethics -- these are not necessarily good, kind people, but they are also not monsters in their entirety. They deserve each other, in the best way.
The novel's strength is in the author's atmospheric writing style. Ophelia is phenomenal at her craft, blending genre influences through her work with subtle ingenuity. At the same time, the novel falls a little short in a few places -- while it is deserving of a second read to allow for awareness of all that is revealed at the end, so much of the plot is confusing and alienating to the reader. It could do with a little more bread-crumbing along the way.
Furthermore, there are times where exposition is delivered a bit clumsily. In particular, a specific moment between Petronille and her mother towards the end of the novel is somehow both difficult to grasp, and when the understanding finally dawns, falls somewhat flat because of how difficult it was to discern what was actually being insinuated all along. Reading between the lines in this novel is very important to get a decent understanding of the plot and the characters, and it may be a failure on my part as much as the author or the editor, but I am sure there are times when I didn't succeed on gleaning meaning from everything.
My only other piece of criticism is that I do wish the book came with a note on the cultural contexts of the Gilded Age -- were ballerinas really expected to escort their patrons? This wasn't something I myself was aware of, and I spent a lot of the novel perplexed by some of the societal norms that were being conveyed (were newspapers really publishing ladies' underwear?? It's hard to believe, but maybe).
I do have to applaud the author for the content warning at the beginning of the novel -- it prepares you well, while still leaving you curious for more.
Overall, I did really enjoy Fruit of the Flesh, despite its shortcomings. It's certainly a novel that will reveal more on a second read, which I plan to do when the book officially comes out.
A haunting narrative that flows around themes of injustice, control, fear and desire.
I.V. Ophelia's prose is dreamy and compelling, poetic and moving in the way it grabs your attention and holds it there, forces you to look, to bear witness, to stare unflinching into the open mouth of romance and horror. I raced through the first half of the novel in a fevered state, desperate to see how the relationship between Petronille and Arkady would evolve and grow. I loved watching as she allowed herself to soften in his presence, and he in turn, allowed her to stand on her own, protecting her from the shadows. This is a romance that is painted in shades of gray, without the pressures of conforming to traditional morality or ethics -- these are not necessarily good, kind people, but they are also not monsters in their entirety. They deserve each other, in the best way.
The novel's strength is in the author's atmospheric writing style. Ophelia is phenomenal at her craft, blending genre influences through her work with subtle ingenuity. At the same time, the novel falls a little short in a few places -- while it is deserving of a second read to allow for awareness of all that is revealed at the end, so much of the plot is confusing and alienating to the reader. It could do with a little more bread-crumbing along the way.
Furthermore, there are times where exposition is delivered a bit clumsily. In particular, a specific moment between Petronille and her mother towards the end of the novel is somehow both difficult to grasp, and when the understanding finally dawns, falls somewhat flat because of how difficult it was to discern what was actually being insinuated all along. Reading between the lines in this novel is very important to get a decent understanding of the plot and the characters, and it may be a failure on my part as much as the author or the editor, but I am sure there are times when I didn't succeed on gleaning meaning from everything.
My only other piece of criticism is that I do wish the book came with a note on the cultural contexts of the Gilded Age -- were ballerinas really expected to escort their patrons? This wasn't something I myself was aware of, and I spent a lot of the novel perplexed by some of the societal norms that were being conveyed (were newspapers really publishing ladies' underwear?? It's hard to believe, but maybe).
I do have to applaud the author for the content warning at the beginning of the novel -- it prepares you well, while still leaving you curious for more.
Overall, I did really enjoy Fruit of the Flesh, despite its shortcomings. It's certainly a novel that will reveal more on a second read, which I plan to do when the book officially comes out.
September 9, 2025
Ophelia does it again...but, respectfully (and with lots of love) what the hell was that?? THAT ENDING!
I'll try to keep this short and spoiler free, but Ophelia incorporated one of my biggest fears that successfully spooked me first thing in the morning as I woke up early to read it in bed. I was horrified, grossed out, and strangely moved by Petra's and Arkady's relationship.
Ophelia is fantastic with descriptions and the entire time I could see the story play out like a movie inside my head. Arkady was my favorite character and though I liked Petra I found her to be a bit grating at times (which makes sense once all the pieces fall into place at the end.)
I can't wait for my friends and everyone else to read this book. It is the perfect gothic horror that creeps beneath your skin versus throwing stuff on page for shock value.
I won't be able to get this story out of my head for a long time I fear. Highly recommend!
I'll try to keep this short and spoiler free, but Ophelia incorporated one of my biggest fears that successfully spooked me first thing in the morning as I woke up early to read it in bed. I was horrified, grossed out, and strangely moved by Petra's and Arkady's relationship.
Ophelia is fantastic with descriptions and the entire time I could see the story play out like a movie inside my head. Arkady was my favorite character and though I liked Petra I found her to be a bit grating at times (which makes sense once all the pieces fall into place at the end.)
I can't wait for my friends and everyone else to read this book. It is the perfect gothic horror that creeps beneath your skin versus throwing stuff on page for shock value.
I won't be able to get this story out of my head for a long time I fear. Highly recommend!
November 9, 2025
If you are a fan of gothic writing styles then look no further than I.V. Ophelia. I absolutely loved The Poisoner, so when I received an eARC of Fruit of the Flesh, I was ELATED!!
Petronille, our FMC, is directed by her wealthy family to marry. Petronille selects Arkady, a sculptor, as her husband even though they barely know each other. They both seem to fight their physical attraction for one another even though the tension is palpable. The gilded age era is the perfect setting for this book and is portrayed beautifully throughout it.
This book does have some gore and horror elements to it that I would normally be slightly squeamish to; however, it is so well done and fits perfectly to the story. The ending of the book pulled everything together perfectly and I was absolutely stunned. The title ended up making perfect sense.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This book is unique and is truly an experience to read. Thank you so much to IV Ophelia and NetGalley for the eARC!
Petronille, our FMC, is directed by her wealthy family to marry. Petronille selects Arkady, a sculptor, as her husband even though they barely know each other. They both seem to fight their physical attraction for one another even though the tension is palpable. The gilded age era is the perfect setting for this book and is portrayed beautifully throughout it.
This book does have some gore and horror elements to it that I would normally be slightly squeamish to; however, it is so well done and fits perfectly to the story. The ending of the book pulled everything together perfectly and I was absolutely stunned. The title ended up making perfect sense.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This book is unique and is truly an experience to read. Thank you so much to IV Ophelia and NetGalley for the eARC!
October 15, 2025
Thank you Montlake and I.V. Ophelia for THIS DIVINE EARC!
When I read The Poisoner I was hook line and sinker for Ophelias writing pretty quickly. Fruit of the Flesh just secured her as an autobuy author for me. Her prose is genuinely so beautiful, so gothic, and so natural I couldn't put this down. I had no idea where this story was headed for the entire book... and then everything is just unraveled in the last 10 minutes and it was done so methodically I couldn't even suggest a better timeline.
The main characters, down to their absolute uniqueness in name even, were some of my favorites I've read about in a long long time. Ophelia writes such unique stories that suck you in and keep you frozen in time until you've finished. I can not wait to have this physical copy on my shelf, and I again am so thankful to get an early copy of this!! Thank you!
When I read The Poisoner I was hook line and sinker for Ophelias writing pretty quickly. Fruit of the Flesh just secured her as an autobuy author for me. Her prose is genuinely so beautiful, so gothic, and so natural I couldn't put this down. I had no idea where this story was headed for the entire book... and then everything is just unraveled in the last 10 minutes and it was done so methodically I couldn't even suggest a better timeline.
The main characters, down to their absolute uniqueness in name even, were some of my favorites I've read about in a long long time. Ophelia writes such unique stories that suck you in and keep you frozen in time until you've finished. I can not wait to have this physical copy on my shelf, and I again am so thankful to get an early copy of this!! Thank you!
November 25, 2025
hauntingly beautiful, addictive and atmospherically imitable romance 🥀 🤍| 5/5 stars - review below 👇
𝑻𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉.
🤍🥀 || 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆
📖 Fruit of the Flesh by I. V. Ophelia
Star Rating: 6/5 ★★★★★ (deserves infinity stars though, easily. ♾️)
Spice Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️🌶️.5
Spice Frequency: 2/5 🔥🔥
POV: Dual/1st
Couple: Arkady Kamenev x Petronille De Villier
🗓️ Releases January 20th, 2026
⚠️ TROPES BELOW ⚠️
• ballerina x sculptor
• marriage of convenience
• standalone
• gothic horror-romance with mystery vibes
• not-so-polite society
• powerful political undertones
I knew that I. V. Ophelia was a once-in-a-lifetime talent the moment I began reading her debut, The Poisoner. After reading Fruit of the Flesh, I continue to absolutely believe that to be true. Possibly even more so than before.
Fruit of the Flesh is a haunting beautiful, gorgeously crafted masterpiece in romantic suspense. It grips you from page one and refuses to let go until your every thought is consumed by the complex characters, flawlessly written imagery, and the mysterious plot line. Without a doubt, Fruit of the Flesh is one of the most intricately and thoughtfully written pieces of art I’ve ever encountered.
I sincerely believe that I. V. Ophelia’s writing is unlike any other for many reasons. One of the main things that stands out for me in FOTF is the SUBTLETY. It takes immense skill to maintain a certain feel to a book, especially one as specific as this. While you read, you will feel the tension every moment. I’m not talking about only feeling romantic tension (though you’ll feel that too) but rather the uncanny ambiance that surrounds the storyline. Every second, you know that a turn is around the corner, you’re waiting for the pin to drop, and this elicits a truly page-turning experience. A book you DO NOT want to put down.
The characters in this book are so skillfully fleshed out (pun intended) and I was especially drawn to Petronille, the FMC. Her struggle with feeling like an outcast, with life sometimes being too much, with wanting to be WANTED…I could relate. I could relate to the point that it brought me to tears.
The MMC, Arkady, was not only refreshing in the sense of a man being written in a way where he truly notices every small thing about his partner, but also in how he pushes her boundaries to get her to open up to him. He has this air about him as you read that makes you think something is not quite right, and then things shift and you question your own judgement. This created a truly addictive situation for me as a reader. Is he a wolf in sheep’s clothing? (Definitely read to find out.)
I could sit here and talk about this book for ages. I could go into depth and analyze each moment. What it boils down to though is…Fruit of the Flesh is an experience. It’s an art piece you can feel as much as read. I’m enamored, and I’ll never get over it.
Congratulations to I. V. Ophelia on such an outstanding novel, though knowing her writing, I can’t say I’m too surprised that she created another masterpiece. I can’t wait to see what she creates from here.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘐. 𝘝. 𝘖𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘢, 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘦 & 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺.
𝑻𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒕. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉.
🤍🥀 || 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆
📖 Fruit of the Flesh by I. V. Ophelia
Star Rating: 6/5 ★★★★★ (deserves infinity stars though, easily. ♾️)
Spice Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️🌶️.5
Spice Frequency: 2/5 🔥🔥
POV: Dual/1st
Couple: Arkady Kamenev x Petronille De Villier
🗓️ Releases January 20th, 2026
⚠️ TROPES BELOW ⚠️
• ballerina x sculptor
• marriage of convenience
• standalone
• gothic horror-romance with mystery vibes
• not-so-polite society
• powerful political undertones
I knew that I. V. Ophelia was a once-in-a-lifetime talent the moment I began reading her debut, The Poisoner. After reading Fruit of the Flesh, I continue to absolutely believe that to be true. Possibly even more so than before.
Fruit of the Flesh is a haunting beautiful, gorgeously crafted masterpiece in romantic suspense. It grips you from page one and refuses to let go until your every thought is consumed by the complex characters, flawlessly written imagery, and the mysterious plot line. Without a doubt, Fruit of the Flesh is one of the most intricately and thoughtfully written pieces of art I’ve ever encountered.
I sincerely believe that I. V. Ophelia’s writing is unlike any other for many reasons. One of the main things that stands out for me in FOTF is the SUBTLETY. It takes immense skill to maintain a certain feel to a book, especially one as specific as this. While you read, you will feel the tension every moment. I’m not talking about only feeling romantic tension (though you’ll feel that too) but rather the uncanny ambiance that surrounds the storyline. Every second, you know that a turn is around the corner, you’re waiting for the pin to drop, and this elicits a truly page-turning experience. A book you DO NOT want to put down.
The characters in this book are so skillfully fleshed out (pun intended) and I was especially drawn to Petronille, the FMC. Her struggle with feeling like an outcast, with life sometimes being too much, with wanting to be WANTED…I could relate. I could relate to the point that it brought me to tears.
The MMC, Arkady, was not only refreshing in the sense of a man being written in a way where he truly notices every small thing about his partner, but also in how he pushes her boundaries to get her to open up to him. He has this air about him as you read that makes you think something is not quite right, and then things shift and you question your own judgement. This created a truly addictive situation for me as a reader. Is he a wolf in sheep’s clothing? (Definitely read to find out.)
I could sit here and talk about this book for ages. I could go into depth and analyze each moment. What it boils down to though is…Fruit of the Flesh is an experience. It’s an art piece you can feel as much as read. I’m enamored, and I’ll never get over it.
Congratulations to I. V. Ophelia on such an outstanding novel, though knowing her writing, I can’t say I’m too surprised that she created another masterpiece. I can’t wait to see what she creates from here.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘐. 𝘝. 𝘖𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘢, 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘦 & 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺.
October 14, 2025
Round of applause. 👏🏽
This book was amazing and the writing style was almost ethereal. I could NOT put this book down and then towards the end I wasn’t ready to part with the characters. This is one of my top reads from this year.
Petronille is a recently retired ballerina, she gave up her career for marriage; Arkady is a handsome artisan who aspired to marry wealthy. The pair have no idea what they are in for…
We are thrown into their lives the day of their wedding (first time meeting) and as they gradually get to know each other we are given bread crumbs about their pasts since they aren’t willing to share it with each other yet. I was like a mouse waiting for the next morsel 🤣 I guessed one twist but nothing prepared me for the other.
This story is a dark, chilling, deliciously gothic romance that will have you at the edge of your seat for the finale.
Thank you so much IV Ophelia and Montlake for the arc! 🖤
4.5 ✨
2.5 🌶️
This book was amazing and the writing style was almost ethereal. I could NOT put this book down and then towards the end I wasn’t ready to part with the characters. This is one of my top reads from this year.
Petronille is a recently retired ballerina, she gave up her career for marriage; Arkady is a handsome artisan who aspired to marry wealthy. The pair have no idea what they are in for…
We are thrown into their lives the day of their wedding (first time meeting) and as they gradually get to know each other we are given bread crumbs about their pasts since they aren’t willing to share it with each other yet. I was like a mouse waiting for the next morsel 🤣 I guessed one twist but nothing prepared me for the other.
This story is a dark, chilling, deliciously gothic romance that will have you at the edge of your seat for the finale.
Thank you so much IV Ophelia and Montlake for the arc! 🖤
4.5 ✨
2.5 🌶️
Want to read
November 3, 2025poor boy x rich girl??? please, please, please give it to me 🙏🙏🙏
September 23, 2025
guys!! this!! book!!
the story is so hauntingly beautiful, i had chills the entire time! Arkady and Petronille met on their wedding day, both with a TON of skeletons in their closets. as they get to know each other, they are constantly torn between keeping each other at arms length or dragging each other into their darkness.
the dark romance aspect of this book reallllly delivered - Arkady and Petronille are pretty twisted but their love for each other is somehow still sweet in a way? idk maybe that makes me crazy… i will say to double check the content warnings for this book because it does contain some scenes that might be uncomfortable for readers. but with that said, the tension between these characters is delicious🫣
as for the plot, every chapter revealed something new and little details that i thought weren’t necessary ended up being so important. even though there were hints throughout, i still didn’t expect the ending! it is truly masterful how everything came together. i found myself repeatedly saying “one more chapter,” i just couldn’t put it down! an added bonus is that the writing is extremely beautiful and poetic, which made me enjoy the book that much more!
as a reader, i felt that i was experiencing everything alongside the characters. i liked how i would discover something at the same time as a character, it made the story come alive for me. almost like i was in a horror movie with them!
a huge thank you to I.V. Ophelia and NetGalley for the advance copy, I can’t wait to reread it when it’s published in january!🥰
the story is so hauntingly beautiful, i had chills the entire time! Arkady and Petronille met on their wedding day, both with a TON of skeletons in their closets. as they get to know each other, they are constantly torn between keeping each other at arms length or dragging each other into their darkness.
the dark romance aspect of this book reallllly delivered - Arkady and Petronille are pretty twisted but their love for each other is somehow still sweet in a way? idk maybe that makes me crazy… i will say to double check the content warnings for this book because it does contain some scenes that might be uncomfortable for readers. but with that said, the tension between these characters is delicious🫣
as for the plot, every chapter revealed something new and little details that i thought weren’t necessary ended up being so important. even though there were hints throughout, i still didn’t expect the ending! it is truly masterful how everything came together. i found myself repeatedly saying “one more chapter,” i just couldn’t put it down! an added bonus is that the writing is extremely beautiful and poetic, which made me enjoy the book that much more!
as a reader, i felt that i was experiencing everything alongside the characters. i liked how i would discover something at the same time as a character, it made the story come alive for me. almost like i was in a horror movie with them!
a huge thank you to I.V. Ophelia and NetGalley for the advance copy, I can’t wait to reread it when it’s published in january!🥰
November 24, 2025
I cannot properly express how much I love I.V. Ophelia and her style of writing. I was lucky enough to get an eARC copy of this book which I was stoked about since I finished The Poisoner in a day and a half and needed another dose before The Arachnid came out. As a fan of classic horror and Victorian/Edwardian romances this book somehow found a great balance between the two. Both the main characters are seriously warped in their own unique ways and through either divine intervention or just amazing luck they found the perfect compliment to their special blend of twisted.
August 23, 2025
ARC REVIEW
I finished this book in exactly 4 hours, 59 minutes and 21 seconds and I already want to re-read it!
The writing was so beautifully done it was captivating, the spice delivered exactly what was promised (and definitely unlocked some things), the story took a turn I wasn't expecting at all but things started clicking into place.
Another absolute banger and I can't wait to have a physical copy on my shelf next year
Spice- 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Chapters in the spoilers below
I finished this book in exactly 4 hours, 59 minutes and 21 seconds and I already want to re-read it!
The writing was so beautifully done it was captivating, the spice delivered exactly what was promised (and definitely unlocked some things), the story took a turn I wasn't expecting at all but things started clicking into place.
Another absolute banger and I can't wait to have a physical copy on my shelf next year
Spice- 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Chapters in the spoilers below
September 15, 2025
This is about to be LONG so buckle up
I thought I was walking into something light and maybe whimsical, but this book was so much more. It wasn’t just a story, it was poetry, it was a ride that gave and gave and gave until the very end. From about 10% in, I already knew there was something addictive about it. The author herself said this book has crack and she wasn’t lying.
The plot was stretched out beautifully it never felt rushed, never felt dragging. The writing? Phenomenal. It honestly didn’t feel like a novel at times, it felt like poetry. Everything flowed with intention, nothing felt out of place, and there was this artistic structure to the madness that just worked. One line that really stuck with me was Petronille thinking of Arkady and she thought.
“I wore a smile as involuntary as a jacket in the cold, kept warm by the thought of him.”
Lines like that reminded me this wasn’t just storytelling, it was art.
Trigger Warnings
This is so important, please take the trigger warnings seriously. There are some very dark aspects to this book, and while they didn’t trigger me personally, I know they will for others. The darkness is a core part of the story and one of the reasons it’s so powerful but it deserves to be approached with care.
Arkady… or should I say ArrrDaddy
Okay I’m sorry (no I am not)
Let me just say… I was not ready for him. The mystery around his character had me hooked from page one, and it never let up. I loved that he was never painted as the “sweet and soft” type. It was clear from the get go that he was layered, complex, and dangerous in ways that made him impossible to look away from.
The BDSM elements were handled with intensity and realism, and it wasn’t just smut for the sake of smut. It was deeper, emotional, and honestly? It triggered feelings in me I didn’t expect. There were lines where I had to literally pause and stare at my screen like when he said, “What you want and what you are allowed are two different things, princess.” At that moment, I crossed my legs (iykyk) and boy I was gone. He had me, and he’s going to grab every reader by the throat the same way.
Petronille, the damsel not in distress
Petronille was harder for me at first. In some parts, I found her desperate, impulsive, even whiny. I struggled to empathize with her, and I wasn’t sure I ever would. But by the end, it all clicked. Her choices weren’t shallow or random; they were rooted in her pain, her desires, and her flaws.
When it all tied together, I found myself loving her just as much as Arkady. She went from someone I couldn’t connect with to someone who broke me open by the end. That shift made her arc so much more powerful.
The Romance and Other Themes
The romance. I’m not sure if you can even call it that, because it goes beyond romance, because it felt sooooo real. Love, intimacy, desire, obsession… all of it was written with a level of honesty that you don’t see often. It wasn’t watered down or dressed up; it was raw and true.
And knowing that Ophelia herself has said she sees parts of herself in Petronille? That made it even more powerful. There’s something incredible about an author who can reflect parts of their own being into their characters, and it made me feel more connected to her not just as a writer, but as an artist.
Final Thoughts, yes I am done phew, right?
By the time I finished, I realized this book had done something rare. It gave me everything I wanted and then gave me more. It was immersive, shocking, heartbreaking, and beautiful. It’s dark, it’s poetic, it’s artistic, and it does not let you go.
Absolutely a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read and one that will stay with me for a long time.
Last but not the least special thanks to Netgalley, Montlake and I.V. Ophelia for the ARC.
I thought I was walking into something light and maybe whimsical, but this book was so much more. It wasn’t just a story, it was poetry, it was a ride that gave and gave and gave until the very end. From about 10% in, I already knew there was something addictive about it. The author herself said this book has crack and she wasn’t lying.
The plot was stretched out beautifully it never felt rushed, never felt dragging. The writing? Phenomenal. It honestly didn’t feel like a novel at times, it felt like poetry. Everything flowed with intention, nothing felt out of place, and there was this artistic structure to the madness that just worked. One line that really stuck with me was Petronille thinking of Arkady and she thought.
“I wore a smile as involuntary as a jacket in the cold, kept warm by the thought of him.”
Lines like that reminded me this wasn’t just storytelling, it was art.
Trigger Warnings
This is so important, please take the trigger warnings seriously. There are some very dark aspects to this book, and while they didn’t trigger me personally, I know they will for others. The darkness is a core part of the story and one of the reasons it’s so powerful but it deserves to be approached with care.
Arkady… or should I say ArrrDaddy
Okay I’m sorry (no I am not)
Let me just say… I was not ready for him. The mystery around his character had me hooked from page one, and it never let up. I loved that he was never painted as the “sweet and soft” type. It was clear from the get go that he was layered, complex, and dangerous in ways that made him impossible to look away from.
The BDSM elements were handled with intensity and realism, and it wasn’t just smut for the sake of smut. It was deeper, emotional, and honestly? It triggered feelings in me I didn’t expect. There were lines where I had to literally pause and stare at my screen like when he said, “What you want and what you are allowed are two different things, princess.” At that moment, I crossed my legs (iykyk) and boy I was gone. He had me, and he’s going to grab every reader by the throat the same way.
Petronille, the damsel not in distress
Petronille was harder for me at first. In some parts, I found her desperate, impulsive, even whiny. I struggled to empathize with her, and I wasn’t sure I ever would. But by the end, it all clicked. Her choices weren’t shallow or random; they were rooted in her pain, her desires, and her flaws.
When it all tied together, I found myself loving her just as much as Arkady. She went from someone I couldn’t connect with to someone who broke me open by the end. That shift made her arc so much more powerful.
The Romance and Other Themes
The romance. I’m not sure if you can even call it that, because it goes beyond romance, because it felt sooooo real. Love, intimacy, desire, obsession… all of it was written with a level of honesty that you don’t see often. It wasn’t watered down or dressed up; it was raw and true.
And knowing that Ophelia herself has said she sees parts of herself in Petronille? That made it even more powerful. There’s something incredible about an author who can reflect parts of their own being into their characters, and it made me feel more connected to her not just as a writer, but as an artist.
Final Thoughts, yes I am done phew, right?
By the time I finished, I realized this book had done something rare. It gave me everything I wanted and then gave me more. It was immersive, shocking, heartbreaking, and beautiful. It’s dark, it’s poetic, it’s artistic, and it does not let you go.
Absolutely a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ read and one that will stay with me for a long time.
Last but not the least special thanks to Netgalley, Montlake and I.V. Ophelia for the ARC.
August 29, 2025
This book is a complete work of art, the literary poetry woven throughout is breathtaking.
The text was so eloquently written and atmospheric that I felt myself immediately transported to 1901 NYC, from Petronille’s eccentric clothing choices to the lush descriptions of their surroundings, I was utterly consumed with their environment.
The complexity of both the MC’s is fascinating as they both have so many carefully crafted layers. As the story progresses, we begin to learn more about them as they slowly begin to open up to each other and reveal their secrets. They are both deeply flawed yet their magnetic connection balances them out.
I never wanted this to end, and once the final stage of the act was revealed, I was completely floored. I wouldn’t say it was a twist more so than a cumulation of multiple puzzle pieces slotting together, painting the final picture of the story. This was so carefully crafted and impossible to predict which made it both entertaining and thought provoking.
A haunting gothic romance which is unsettling, jaw dropping, and full of desire. This one will stay with me for a while and I can’t recommend it enough 🫶🏻
Thank to you NetGalley & Montlake for the ARC
The text was so eloquently written and atmospheric that I felt myself immediately transported to 1901 NYC, from Petronille’s eccentric clothing choices to the lush descriptions of their surroundings, I was utterly consumed with their environment.
The complexity of both the MC’s is fascinating as they both have so many carefully crafted layers. As the story progresses, we begin to learn more about them as they slowly begin to open up to each other and reveal their secrets. They are both deeply flawed yet their magnetic connection balances them out.
I never wanted this to end, and once the final stage of the act was revealed, I was completely floored. I wouldn’t say it was a twist more so than a cumulation of multiple puzzle pieces slotting together, painting the final picture of the story. This was so carefully crafted and impossible to predict which made it both entertaining and thought provoking.
A haunting gothic romance which is unsettling, jaw dropping, and full of desire. This one will stay with me for a while and I can’t recommend it enough 🫶🏻
Thank to you NetGalley & Montlake for the ARC
September 20, 2025
The way I.V. Ophelia knows how to write such atmospheric and beautifully descriptive scenes… I loved the creepy, gothic mystery vibe of this! I also love that she doesn’t shy away from writing flawed, and sometimes unlikable characters. It makes their growth so much more satisfying in the end.
Petronille gave me whiplash. One moment I was sympathetic and on her side, the next she was so childish and frustrating. But this is what I live for in characters! I want the imperfections and the journey towards growth.
As for Arkady, I thought he was going to be the more challenging of the two characters, but he was surprisingly sweet (not all the time of course) and more level than I expected him to be. I adore his patience and understanding of Petronille.
“Tell me what you want, or trust me to choose for you.”
“You have me. I’m yours, completely and utterly yours.”
And that ending!! Didn’t see that coming.
Petronille gave me whiplash. One moment I was sympathetic and on her side, the next she was so childish and frustrating. But this is what I live for in characters! I want the imperfections and the journey towards growth.
As for Arkady, I thought he was going to be the more challenging of the two characters, but he was surprisingly sweet (not all the time of course) and more level than I expected him to be. I adore his patience and understanding of Petronille.
“Tell me what you want, or trust me to choose for you.”
“You have me. I’m yours, completely and utterly yours.”
And that ending!! Didn’t see that coming.
September 12, 2025
I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to feel about this book when I started reading it.
IV has been a must read author for me after simply one book, The Poisoner. It was the way that it was written but also I am an absolute sucker for vampires.
This book may not have had supernatural creatures but it still housed the exact reason I fell in love with this author, her writing.
I’m also not one on historical style romances, but IV just keeps sucking me in with those too.
It’s a little slow and some times hard to understand at the beginning but that could also just be me wanting to know the secrets and the plots before it was time.
Wonderful book, IV. Wonderful.
IV has been a must read author for me after simply one book, The Poisoner. It was the way that it was written but also I am an absolute sucker for vampires.
This book may not have had supernatural creatures but it still housed the exact reason I fell in love with this author, her writing.
I’m also not one on historical style romances, but IV just keeps sucking me in with those too.
It’s a little slow and some times hard to understand at the beginning but that could also just be me wanting to know the secrets and the plots before it was time.
Wonderful book, IV. Wonderful.
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