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His gift
What happens when you've never felt anything your entire life? You search for the one person who makes you feel. Your perfect fit. Your obsession. Your gift.
Harper:
Conrad insists we belong together.
I don't understand the way he's obsessed, seeing something broken in me and calling it precious. Can I ever truly trust him after what he did? He says it was for me… but how can I believe that?
Conrad:
There is no world where Harper doesn't belong with me. She's fighting it every step of the way. I’ll break down her walls, piece by painful piece, even if it means facing the darkness that haunts us both. Our connection is a storm and we’re both caught in its eye.
His gift is a dark romance, contains mature themes and is meant for adult readers.
Conrad insists we belong together.
I don't understand the way he's obsessed, seeing something broken in me and calling it precious. Can I ever truly trust him after what he did? He says it was for me… but how can I believe that?
Conrad:
There is no world where Harper doesn't belong with me. She's fighting it every step of the way. I’ll break down her walls, piece by painful piece, even if it means facing the darkness that haunts us both. Our connection is a storm and we’re both caught in its eye.
His gift is a dark romance, contains mature themes and is meant for adult readers.
- GenresDark RomanceDark
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2025
85 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Sienna Zini
22 books45 followersHi there!
I'm Sienna, and when I'm not writing spicy happily-ever-afters, you might find me reading, whipping up a delicious meal, reveling in the beauty of nature, or exploring new corners of the world.
After years spent crunching numbers and growing my accounting company, always weaving stories in my head, I finally took the leap in 2022 and pursued my lifelong dream of publishing my first book.
What fuels my passion? A deep love for a good story and the many characters who take root in my mind, demanding their tales be told.
The joy of bringing heartwarming love stories to life keeps me constantly creating, so stay tuned for what's coming next!
I'm Sienna, and when I'm not writing spicy happily-ever-afters, you might find me reading, whipping up a delicious meal, reveling in the beauty of nature, or exploring new corners of the world.
After years spent crunching numbers and growing my accounting company, always weaving stories in my head, I finally took the leap in 2022 and pursued my lifelong dream of publishing my first book.
What fuels my passion? A deep love for a good story and the many characters who take root in my mind, demanding their tales be told.
The joy of bringing heartwarming love stories to life keeps me constantly creating, so stay tuned for what's coming next!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 20, 2025
This was such a gripping dark romance and I found that I could not put it down!!
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: he stalks, kidnaps, and then there is some very, very, very dubious consent happening. This is definitely one you want to check the trigger warnings before reading, so please take care of yourselves friends.
With that said, I will not go into a history lesson nor a soap box rant about why I felt this was classified as dubious consent vs. nonconsent. You will either have to trust that you agree with me or trust that you won’t. Either way, again, take care of yourselves friends.
What I loved:
1. It’s an age gap, dark romance. I’m SOLD!
2. There are no kids in the future. He can’t have kids so that isn’t even an end goal. I love romance books that don’t end with a big wedding full of kids and dogs and beach vacations, BECAUSE THEY’RE REAL. They represent so many people, especially in my generation, who are choosing to forgo having children. Love the rep.
3. From the very beginning, Harper enjoyed his ministrations, sexual and otherwise, always encouraging him to continue. The couple of times when she told him to stop, he DID. This was so very important to me as it was ultimately what made me ok with their relationships.
4. He was so obsessed with her and thought she really was THE ONE for him that he was willing to do some pretty morally grey things to get her. Do I condone any of this in a IRL situation? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Do I enjoy reading it in FICTION? Yes!
In fact, he was so obsessed with her that when her self-doubt and talking down to herself popped up, he squashed it so fast. With the exception of the whole stalking/kidnapping thing, he was actually very sweet and would do anything for her.
5. I loved that he really didn’t see anything wrong with his actions, but then as she taught him and reminded him normal people don’t do that stuff, he definitely came around to understanding and felt so much regret for how he had started their relationship. This was pivotal for me coming around to Conrad.
6. I loved that Harper ran when she had the chance. While everything in her heart and body told her to stay, she took the opportunity to run not very long into the book. I loved that she wasn’t brainwashed, that she called him on his bad stuff and his acts that he had inflicted upon her, and she didn’t let him get away with anything. To me, that was key to correcting the power imbalance that started the story. I loved watching her grapple with her feelings for him and determine in her own time that she did love him.
7. Lastly, I loved that Harper really came into her own. After a life of being quiet and subservient, she really let this final experience allow her to be more communicative and outspoken about what she was feeling and how she would not take anything else lying down. I loved this transformation for her.
Thank you to Sienna Zini for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.5 stars!
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: he stalks, kidnaps, and then there is some very, very, very dubious consent happening. This is definitely one you want to check the trigger warnings before reading, so please take care of yourselves friends.
With that said, I will not go into a history lesson nor a soap box rant about why I felt this was classified as dubious consent vs. nonconsent. You will either have to trust that you agree with me or trust that you won’t. Either way, again, take care of yourselves friends.
What I loved:
1. It’s an age gap, dark romance. I’m SOLD!
2. There are no kids in the future. He can’t have kids so that isn’t even an end goal. I love romance books that don’t end with a big wedding full of kids and dogs and beach vacations, BECAUSE THEY’RE REAL. They represent so many people, especially in my generation, who are choosing to forgo having children. Love the rep.
3. From the very beginning, Harper enjoyed his ministrations, sexual and otherwise, always encouraging him to continue. The couple of times when she told him to stop, he DID. This was so very important to me as it was ultimately what made me ok with their relationships.
4. He was so obsessed with her and thought she really was THE ONE for him that he was willing to do some pretty morally grey things to get her. Do I condone any of this in a IRL situation? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Do I enjoy reading it in FICTION? Yes!
In fact, he was so obsessed with her that when her self-doubt and talking down to herself popped up, he squashed it so fast. With the exception of the whole stalking/kidnapping thing, he was actually very sweet and would do anything for her.
5. I loved that he really didn’t see anything wrong with his actions, but then as she taught him and reminded him normal people don’t do that stuff, he definitely came around to understanding and felt so much regret for how he had started their relationship. This was pivotal for me coming around to Conrad.
6. I loved that Harper ran when she had the chance. While everything in her heart and body told her to stay, she took the opportunity to run not very long into the book. I loved that she wasn’t brainwashed, that she called him on his bad stuff and his acts that he had inflicted upon her, and she didn’t let him get away with anything. To me, that was key to correcting the power imbalance that started the story. I loved watching her grapple with her feelings for him and determine in her own time that she did love him.
7. Lastly, I loved that Harper really came into her own. After a life of being quiet and subservient, she really let this final experience allow her to be more communicative and outspoken about what she was feeling and how she would not take anything else lying down. I loved this transformation for her.
Thank you to Sienna Zini for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.5 stars!
August 19, 2025
I think this is the most unhinged and spicy book I've ever read. Mind the triggers!
The level of spice is through the roof, the writing is gorgeous and the plot delivers.
The MMC is obsessed with the FMC, he worships her body, protects her in every way possible and the touch her and ☠️ is literal.
But Harper, the FMC, has my heart. With all her trauma and horrible experiences, she manages to come up standing on her own two feet. She's fierce, and she's compassionate and I just love the way Sienna Zini wrote her.
If you want a dark romance with all the spice, read this book!
The level of spice is through the roof, the writing is gorgeous and the plot delivers.
The MMC is obsessed with the FMC, he worships her body, protects her in every way possible and the touch her and ☠️ is literal.
But Harper, the FMC, has my heart. With all her trauma and horrible experiences, she manages to come up standing on her own two feet. She's fierce, and she's compassionate and I just love the way Sienna Zini wrote her.
If you want a dark romance with all the spice, read this book!
July 29, 2025
This book starts out BAM! right in the thick of it! No lead in, no build up, just BOOM let's get started. I have to say, I didn't like Conrad in the beginning. I mean, come on, he isn't exactly a good guy. But he grew on me as we learned more about him and his feelings. And boy! That man is great at expressing what he feels. There is a lot of growth with characters during the story. Conrad with his feelings and understanding of others feelings and Harper with her past.
Here's why someone would love this book: Conrad is so sweet. Sure at first it's hard to see his thought process, as he opens up he said the sweetest things. They way he describes how he feels is swoon worthy. He takes care of Harper and truly listens to her. He hears her too. By doing what she asks and said she needs. He protects her.
Here's what I didn't care for:
Story didn't move very fast. It was mostly a story about the relationship. It felt as if the plot was secondary to the relationship, even when the climax happened.
While Conrad has growth in his feelings and understanding he never shares about his own nightmares/mental health needs.
Thank you Sienna Zini for providing an advanced copy of the book.
Here's why someone would love this book: Conrad is so sweet. Sure at first it's hard to see his thought process, as he opens up he said the sweetest things. They way he describes how he feels is swoon worthy. He takes care of Harper and truly listens to her. He hears her too. By doing what she asks and said she needs. He protects her.
Here's what I didn't care for:
Story didn't move very fast. It was mostly a story about the relationship. It felt as if the plot was secondary to the relationship, even when the climax happened.
While Conrad has growth in his feelings and understanding he never shares about his own nightmares/mental health needs.
Thank you Sienna Zini for providing an advanced copy of the book.
June 22, 2025
I don't even know where to start with this one. I mean I loved it but there's so much to unpack here. It's dark, it's got a stalker situation, but with good ish intentions 🤔
I really enjoyed Harper's character. She was complex but relatable. She had past trauma that definitely affected her even in present time. But her reactions and choices made sense when you had the whole picture. She was strong, stubborn, sassy and caring. She struggled with Conrad's choices at times. Which, same. His intentions were in the right place though.
Conrad was hard to judge until I got to know more. His methods definitely were questionable and left something to be desired for sure. But ultimately he was doing what he did with good intentions behind it. His need to be in control was definitely met with a lot of push back understandably, at least until Harper could trust him better.
There were a few events that took place that definitely threw me as I was not expecting them. To say I was shocked is an understatement. And it definitely had my anxiety about what would happen next rising. On more than one occasion.
Even though this book had darker tones and themes it still managed to be sweet and spicy. The opening scene alone was enough to make you want to read the book. And it was definitely spicy from the get go. I was hooked!
Please check the triggers and warnings, but if you're ok with them, I say absolutely read this one!
I really enjoyed Harper's character. She was complex but relatable. She had past trauma that definitely affected her even in present time. But her reactions and choices made sense when you had the whole picture. She was strong, stubborn, sassy and caring. She struggled with Conrad's choices at times. Which, same. His intentions were in the right place though.
Conrad was hard to judge until I got to know more. His methods definitely were questionable and left something to be desired for sure. But ultimately he was doing what he did with good intentions behind it. His need to be in control was definitely met with a lot of push back understandably, at least until Harper could trust him better.
There were a few events that took place that definitely threw me as I was not expecting them. To say I was shocked is an understatement. And it definitely had my anxiety about what would happen next rising. On more than one occasion.
Even though this book had darker tones and themes it still managed to be sweet and spicy. The opening scene alone was enough to make you want to read the book. And it was definitely spicy from the get go. I was hooked!
Please check the triggers and warnings, but if you're ok with them, I say absolutely read this one!
July 1, 2025
5 🌶️
A beautifully written dark/mafia romance with just the right mix of tension, emotion, and lots of spice. The characters go through real growth, and their chemistry is 🔥. Think forced proximity, morally grey vibes, abduction, and dark themes — intense and totally addictive!
I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
A beautifully written dark/mafia romance with just the right mix of tension, emotion, and lots of spice. The characters go through real growth, and their chemistry is 🔥. Think forced proximity, morally grey vibes, abduction, and dark themes — intense and totally addictive!
I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
August 18, 2025
“”Why did you choose me?”
“Because you’re perfect for me.”
He doesn’t even turn around, delivering his answer as if it should explain everything. It doesn’t. And at the same time, it does.”
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity! Where to even begin with this book?! Make sure to read the trigger warnings for this one. It centers around Conrad(MMC) who kidnaps Harper(FMC) and we are brought along on a dark and spicy journey as they try to navigate this newfound relationship between them. Harper struggles to wrap her mind around Conrad’s obsession with her. It’s hard to hate him for what he’s done due to her attraction towards his protective, attentive, and romantic personality. Yes, despite being her kidnapper - we see a total 180 of him. As someone who’s been curious about dark romance reads, this ARC was a great place to begin. I found myself relating to Harper’s conflicting feelings towards Conrad at times and the spice definitely delivered! Make sure to grab a copy, you won’t be disappointed!
“Because you’re perfect for me.”
He doesn’t even turn around, delivering his answer as if it should explain everything. It doesn’t. And at the same time, it does.”
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity! Where to even begin with this book?! Make sure to read the trigger warnings for this one. It centers around Conrad(MMC) who kidnaps Harper(FMC) and we are brought along on a dark and spicy journey as they try to navigate this newfound relationship between them. Harper struggles to wrap her mind around Conrad’s obsession with her. It’s hard to hate him for what he’s done due to her attraction towards his protective, attentive, and romantic personality. Yes, despite being her kidnapper - we see a total 180 of him. As someone who’s been curious about dark romance reads, this ARC was a great place to begin. I found myself relating to Harper’s conflicting feelings towards Conrad at times and the spice definitely delivered! Make sure to grab a copy, you won’t be disappointed!
December 4, 2025
Il mio Dono
Sienna Zini
È il primo libro che leggo di quest’autrice. In questa storia ci farà conoscere Harper, una giovane avvocata che cerca di ricostruire la sua vita dopo il divorzio, e Conrad, un uomo che possiede un’azienda biofarmaceutica e che, grazie al suo impegno, ora può raccogliere i frutti del proprio lavoro.
Questa lettura mi ha messo davvero in difficoltà, non perché la scrittura non sia bella, anzi, mi piace molto la penna della scrittrice, ma perché la storia mi ha creato qualche disagio. Tratta tematiche delicate e, per me, è stato difficile entrare completamente nella storia. Credo che nessuno dovrebbe decidere per noi in quel modo.
Naturalmente, si tratta di un’opinione personale, ma mi sento di sconsigliare la lettura a un pubblico molto giovane, soprattutto per il messaggio che, a mio avviso, trasmette.
Valutazione:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy:🌶🌶🌶
Emozioni:💘💘
Recensione a cura di Julia Altamura
strana Family BOOK Blog ❤️
Sienna Zini
È il primo libro che leggo di quest’autrice. In questa storia ci farà conoscere Harper, una giovane avvocata che cerca di ricostruire la sua vita dopo il divorzio, e Conrad, un uomo che possiede un’azienda biofarmaceutica e che, grazie al suo impegno, ora può raccogliere i frutti del proprio lavoro.
Questa lettura mi ha messo davvero in difficoltà, non perché la scrittura non sia bella, anzi, mi piace molto la penna della scrittrice, ma perché la storia mi ha creato qualche disagio. Tratta tematiche delicate e, per me, è stato difficile entrare completamente nella storia. Credo che nessuno dovrebbe decidere per noi in quel modo.
Naturalmente, si tratta di un’opinione personale, ma mi sento di sconsigliare la lettura a un pubblico molto giovane, soprattutto per il messaggio che, a mio avviso, trasmette.
Valutazione:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy:🌶🌶🌶
Emozioni:💘💘
Recensione a cura di Julia Altamura
strana Family BOOK Blog ❤️
August 6, 2025
Thank you to The Author's Archive for the opportunity to read this ARC.
His Gift by Sienna Zini was a wild ride from the very first page...literally. If the opening chapter is any clue, you’ll quickly realize this book does not hold back on the spice... and trust me, it stays spicy.
We’re thrown straight into the chaos as Harper is kidnapped by Conrad, and what unfolds is a dark romance that blurs every line of morality. Is there a plot? Yes, but it definitely takes the backseat to Conrad and Harper’s intense, twisted, and unexpectedly tender relationship. What starts as an act of violence becomes... well, a love story of sorts?
Conrad begins as a definite villain, no doubt about it. But as the story progresses, we see a surprising side of him emerge—gentle, protective, romantic even—with a brutal touch-her-and-die vibe that he absolutely follows through on. Harper, meanwhile, is deeply traumatized, messy, and raw, but she grows. Her evolution throughout the book adds depth that I wasn’t expecting.
Is this a relationship anyone should root for? Probably not. And yet… here we are, by the end of the book, hoping they get their happily ever after. It’s morally gray, emotionally charged, and undeniably captivating.
I do wish the plot involving the mob, the FBI, and betrayal had more of a spotlight. It was an intriguing setup, but most of it plays out in the background, overshadowed by the romance.
Major trigger warnings here—kidnapping, SA, non-consent, and trauma are central to the story. This is a dark romance through and through, so make sure to check the content warnings before diving in.
His Gift by Sienna Zini was a wild ride from the very first page...literally. If the opening chapter is any clue, you’ll quickly realize this book does not hold back on the spice... and trust me, it stays spicy.
We’re thrown straight into the chaos as Harper is kidnapped by Conrad, and what unfolds is a dark romance that blurs every line of morality. Is there a plot? Yes, but it definitely takes the backseat to Conrad and Harper’s intense, twisted, and unexpectedly tender relationship. What starts as an act of violence becomes... well, a love story of sorts?
Conrad begins as a definite villain, no doubt about it. But as the story progresses, we see a surprising side of him emerge—gentle, protective, romantic even—with a brutal touch-her-and-die vibe that he absolutely follows through on. Harper, meanwhile, is deeply traumatized, messy, and raw, but she grows. Her evolution throughout the book adds depth that I wasn’t expecting.
Is this a relationship anyone should root for? Probably not. And yet… here we are, by the end of the book, hoping they get their happily ever after. It’s morally gray, emotionally charged, and undeniably captivating.
I do wish the plot involving the mob, the FBI, and betrayal had more of a spotlight. It was an intriguing setup, but most of it plays out in the background, overshadowed by the romance.
Major trigger warnings here—kidnapping, SA, non-consent, and trauma are central to the story. This is a dark romance through and through, so make sure to check the content warnings before diving in.
July 31, 2025
this is full on... like damn. so much passion.
August 20, 2025
I can not hype this book up enough! for all the girls who love a good stalker romance and a morally grey MMCs, this is one to read!!!. so well written. could not put it down! conrad is all the possessive protective touch her and 💀 book bf goodness you need and Harper is such a hyper independent woman too stubborn for her own good somtimes but you're gonna love her🫶🏻 love love love them together. 😍 nothing says I love you quite like abduction, right? 📚🖤✌🏻
August 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️ARC Review ⭐️⭐️
I received this book as an ARC version and I really enjoyed it.
If you read the trigger warnings for this book and don’t find anything that causes you to pause then this is the book for you!
The level of spice in this book is chefs kiss, this was one of the most unhinged books I have read this year, and the touch her and ☠️ vibes are on point.
The story approaches trauma in a real, messy, yet gentle way. Harper is such a relatable character and I enjoyed her growth as much as I enjoyed Conrad’s.
This book just kicks you straight off into the thick of it, there is no build up, but in a good way. At one point, I put the book down for a couple of days because I thought the story was going in a way I didn’t think I was ready for emotionally, because I loved the characters dynamic by this point and didn’t want anything super bad to happen, but then once I started reading again it wasn’t what I was thinking and I was hooked until I finished it!
I won’t recommend this book to everyone, but I am definitely going to be recommending it to my fellow dark romance readers that love an unhinged read as much as I do 😄🖤
I received this book as an ARC version and I really enjoyed it.
If you read the trigger warnings for this book and don’t find anything that causes you to pause then this is the book for you!
The level of spice in this book is chefs kiss, this was one of the most unhinged books I have read this year, and the touch her and ☠️ vibes are on point.
The story approaches trauma in a real, messy, yet gentle way. Harper is such a relatable character and I enjoyed her growth as much as I enjoyed Conrad’s.
This book just kicks you straight off into the thick of it, there is no build up, but in a good way. At one point, I put the book down for a couple of days because I thought the story was going in a way I didn’t think I was ready for emotionally, because I loved the characters dynamic by this point and didn’t want anything super bad to happen, but then once I started reading again it wasn’t what I was thinking and I was hooked until I finished it!
I won’t recommend this book to everyone, but I am definitely going to be recommending it to my fellow dark romance readers that love an unhinged read as much as I do 😄🖤
August 3, 2025
This book immediately throws the reader into a highly intense and controversial scene, setting the tone for the dark, spicy themes that follow.
Conrad and Harper’s story is driven by heavy character development as they navigate a complex and unconventional relationship. While it begins with Conrad kidnapping Harper, the narrative quickly shifts away from that initial darkness. Rather than leaning fully into a “Berlin Syndrome” dynamic, the story pivots when he lets her go and begins pursuing her in a more morally gray—but no longer criminal—way.
This novel may appeal to readers who enjoy dark romance with deep emotional arcs and slower, character-focused storytelling over fast-paced plotting.
Personally, I found the plot somewhat disjointed. The story seemed to follow three distinct arcs: the initial kidnapping, Harper’s return to her life and the discovery of suspicious activity at her law firm, and a later section in which she’s gone into hiding and is found again by Conrad. These shifts made the overall narrative feel uneven and impacted my final rating.
Thank you to the Authors Archive and Sienna Zini for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Conrad and Harper’s story is driven by heavy character development as they navigate a complex and unconventional relationship. While it begins with Conrad kidnapping Harper, the narrative quickly shifts away from that initial darkness. Rather than leaning fully into a “Berlin Syndrome” dynamic, the story pivots when he lets her go and begins pursuing her in a more morally gray—but no longer criminal—way.
This novel may appeal to readers who enjoy dark romance with deep emotional arcs and slower, character-focused storytelling over fast-paced plotting.
Personally, I found the plot somewhat disjointed. The story seemed to follow three distinct arcs: the initial kidnapping, Harper’s return to her life and the discovery of suspicious activity at her law firm, and a later section in which she’s gone into hiding and is found again by Conrad. These shifts made the overall narrative feel uneven and impacted my final rating.
Thank you to the Authors Archive and Sienna Zini for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 5, 2025
This is a very standard dark romance with those dark themes that readers either love or hate. I am a dark romance lover, however whenever a character’s ability to provide consent is impaired it tends to throw me off. When drugs are involved or someone is in a state of semi-sleep there isn’t an ability to consent and that’s a hard line for me. Unless there is previous consent to such a situation I really can’t get behind it.
I will say Conrad had tons of character development in this which made it redeemable to me. It’s rare to see such character development in a dark romance. A quote “I'd do (it) differently. I thought I could make her see we were made for each other, but you can't do that. No one can. There's no way what I felt in my car, what I'm feeling right now, could originate from anything else than the depths of one's being.” His character literally does a turn around in his ability to understand how his actions affected Harper. It’s clear that he has trauma and may be a sociopath, but even he realizes towards the middle of the book that his behavior was counterproductive.
I also enjoyed that Harper calls Conrad out for everything “Don't you see? You're the first person in my life to show me such care and tenderness, but you abused me exactly like the others. You played mind tricks, used drugs, and employed brute force just to get what you thought you deserved. Do you see it?" Because honestly it was bugging me that she wasn’t addressing it at first. Also a quote “What you did is wrong. It was kidnapping and sexual assault. It was murder and violence. It doesn't matter that I enjoyed it. It doesn't matter that I feel connected to you. It doesn't matter that you changed course when you learned what happened to me. And it doesn't matter that a small, rotten part of me is happy you killed my uncle and beat my ex.” I love that it was properly addressed. Not only did she call him out for assault but also kinda called out her own behavior. Harper has so much trauma to unpack so I guess in a way it’s understandable that she reacted the way she did to being kidnapped but I respect the storyline a lot more since she has self awareness that it’s an odd response.
All in all I honestly struggled with this book a few times. However I thought it had redeeming qualities when it came to the characters calling out their own behavior. I also thought the plot centering around Harper’s job was interesting.
I will say Conrad had tons of character development in this which made it redeemable to me. It’s rare to see such character development in a dark romance. A quote “I'd do (it) differently. I thought I could make her see we were made for each other, but you can't do that. No one can. There's no way what I felt in my car, what I'm feeling right now, could originate from anything else than the depths of one's being.” His character literally does a turn around in his ability to understand how his actions affected Harper. It’s clear that he has trauma and may be a sociopath, but even he realizes towards the middle of the book that his behavior was counterproductive.
I also enjoyed that Harper calls Conrad out for everything “Don't you see? You're the first person in my life to show me such care and tenderness, but you abused me exactly like the others. You played mind tricks, used drugs, and employed brute force just to get what you thought you deserved. Do you see it?" Because honestly it was bugging me that she wasn’t addressing it at first. Also a quote “What you did is wrong. It was kidnapping and sexual assault. It was murder and violence. It doesn't matter that I enjoyed it. It doesn't matter that I feel connected to you. It doesn't matter that you changed course when you learned what happened to me. And it doesn't matter that a small, rotten part of me is happy you killed my uncle and beat my ex.” I love that it was properly addressed. Not only did she call him out for assault but also kinda called out her own behavior. Harper has so much trauma to unpack so I guess in a way it’s understandable that she reacted the way she did to being kidnapped but I respect the storyline a lot more since she has self awareness that it’s an odd response.
All in all I honestly struggled with this book a few times. However I thought it had redeeming qualities when it came to the characters calling out their own behavior. I also thought the plot centering around Harper’s job was interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
Chances are he's a psycho but damn, he knows how to fuck.
🖤❤️🖤❤️🖤❤️
🖤Possessive-Obsessive Hero
❤️Morally Grey Characters
🖤Addiction
❤️Trauma Bonding
🖤Forced Proximity
❤️Protective Hero
🖤Broken MCs
❤️Healing Together
🖤Touch Her and ☠️
❤️Hidden Past
🖤Power Imbalance
🖤❤️🖤❤️🖤❤️
Let me begin by saying you MUST read the triggers from Sienna's website BEFORE reading this. While the spice starts immediately in this book, so do some of the things that make it dark. I hadn't fully read the list before starting and it definitely threw me as I hadn't been expecting it...and got icked out. That is on me.
The spice definitely spices throughout this entire journey, but the book is mainly spice & character development. If you enjoy stories that are more character driven with intensely emotional dynamics at play, you will absolutely love this.
Conrad & Harper have had so much trauma in their lives, even caused by the other, that the story is based around their growth. There is plot in the background, but I felt like I wanted more especially as we don't get true resolution to that background story. Even through their growth, Conrad really never opens up about certain aspects of his own mental health even though he fully expects Harper to do so herself.
I did enjoy the convoluted way Conrad cared for her even when he didn't understand it himself. He is willing to change certain things, although begrudgingly, about himself to make her feel more comfortable & have the independence she needs.
Thank you to Sienna for the ARC on this one!
🖤❤️🖤❤️🖤❤️
🖤Possessive-Obsessive Hero
❤️Morally Grey Characters
🖤Addiction
❤️Trauma Bonding
🖤Forced Proximity
❤️Protective Hero
🖤Broken MCs
❤️Healing Together
🖤Touch Her and ☠️
❤️Hidden Past
🖤Power Imbalance
🖤❤️🖤❤️🖤❤️
Let me begin by saying you MUST read the triggers from Sienna's website BEFORE reading this. While the spice starts immediately in this book, so do some of the things that make it dark. I hadn't fully read the list before starting and it definitely threw me as I hadn't been expecting it...and got icked out. That is on me.
The spice definitely spices throughout this entire journey, but the book is mainly spice & character development. If you enjoy stories that are more character driven with intensely emotional dynamics at play, you will absolutely love this.
Conrad & Harper have had so much trauma in their lives, even caused by the other, that the story is based around their growth. There is plot in the background, but I felt like I wanted more especially as we don't get true resolution to that background story. Even through their growth, Conrad really never opens up about certain aspects of his own mental health even though he fully expects Harper to do so herself.
I did enjoy the convoluted way Conrad cared for her even when he didn't understand it himself. He is willing to change certain things, although begrudgingly, about himself to make her feel more comfortable & have the independence she needs.
Thank you to Sienna for the ARC on this one!
August 19, 2025
Rating: ★★★.75 (Rounded up to 4)
Be aware of the triggers … Seriously🫢…
From the very first chapter, we’re thrown in deeppp! and I know this is a Dark Romance but the darkness is darkeninggg in this one 😱.
Let’s talk Conrad… because I’m concerned concerned. He’s completely unhinged, but he also kind of makes sense? Yes, you can all judge me.. Idc👀
And Harper… girl, are you ok?? The trauma … and, have you heard of Stockholm syndrome?? No? .. anyone?
At first, Conrad had me side eyeing hard, but he grew on me, he is just too sweet! And Now? Someone call the psychs because I think I’m in love. He has this way of doing the most unhinged things out of pure … kindness? God bless him! (but as they say “the path to hell is paved with good intentions”). And I’m okay with that. 😂
The spice? Through the roof
Morality? Out the window
Unhinged level? Full houseeeee
Now here’s the thing… I enjoyed this book, the first 70% had me absolutely hooked, after that, the plot slowed down a bit (IMO). It started to focus more on their relationship and growth (which was good), but it lost a bit of that initial dark energy. Still, it was worth it ❤️🔥
P.S. those hidden surprises between the pages? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏻 (iykyk).
Be aware of the triggers … Seriously🫢…
From the very first chapter, we’re thrown in deeppp! and I know this is a Dark Romance but the darkness is darkeninggg in this one 😱.
Let’s talk Conrad… because I’m concerned concerned. He’s completely unhinged, but he also kind of makes sense? Yes, you can all judge me.. Idc👀
And Harper… girl, are you ok?? The trauma … and, have you heard of Stockholm syndrome?? No? .. anyone?
At first, Conrad had me side eyeing hard, but he grew on me, he is just too sweet! And Now? Someone call the psychs because I think I’m in love. He has this way of doing the most unhinged things out of pure … kindness? God bless him! (but as they say “the path to hell is paved with good intentions”). And I’m okay with that. 😂
The spice? Through the roof
Morality? Out the window
Unhinged level? Full houseeeee
Now here’s the thing… I enjoyed this book, the first 70% had me absolutely hooked, after that, the plot slowed down a bit (IMO). It started to focus more on their relationship and growth (which was good), but it lost a bit of that initial dark energy. Still, it was worth it ❤️🔥
P.S. those hidden surprises between the pages? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏻 (iykyk).
August 24, 2025
⭐ Overall: 7/10
🌶 Spice: 3/5
This one gave me 365 Days vibes (and yes, that’s why the dedicated song fits perfectly—if you know, you know 👀). TBH, the 365 Days movie wasn’t my favorite (still haven’t read the books yet), so I went in thinking this story might not be for me either…
But surprise, surprise—I kept turning the pages! 👏 Enter Conrad: obsessive, possessive, completely unhinged, and convinced kidnapping is a perfectly acceptable way to ask someone out. 🤯 And just like Harper, his “gift”… I fell for it too.
We listen and we don’t judge. I know I have issues 🤣 But the “she’s my one and only, my everything now and forever” passion is the type of devotion I’ll always crave. Add in some violence and a little life-saving? Yeah, I’m here for it.
So if you’re into those dark, obsessive romance vibes, this one’s worth the read.
🎶 Dedicated song: I See Red by Everybody Loves an Outlaw
💬 Favorite quote: “I clench my fists, the phantom ache in my chest a reminder of the moment my life fractured, splintered, and then meticulously rebuilt around her.”
🌶 Spice: 3/5
This one gave me 365 Days vibes (and yes, that’s why the dedicated song fits perfectly—if you know, you know 👀). TBH, the 365 Days movie wasn’t my favorite (still haven’t read the books yet), so I went in thinking this story might not be for me either…
But surprise, surprise—I kept turning the pages! 👏 Enter Conrad: obsessive, possessive, completely unhinged, and convinced kidnapping is a perfectly acceptable way to ask someone out. 🤯 And just like Harper, his “gift”… I fell for it too.
We listen and we don’t judge. I know I have issues 🤣 But the “she’s my one and only, my everything now and forever” passion is the type of devotion I’ll always crave. Add in some violence and a little life-saving? Yeah, I’m here for it.
So if you’re into those dark, obsessive romance vibes, this one’s worth the read.
🎶 Dedicated song: I See Red by Everybody Loves an Outlaw
💬 Favorite quote: “I clench my fists, the phantom ache in my chest a reminder of the moment my life fractured, splintered, and then meticulously rebuilt around her.”
July 15, 2025
Like some other books by this author, there is an air of mystery about the main character, Conrad. At the start of the book, the reader knows very little about him other than his actions and behaviour are somewhat dubious, questionable and definitely stalkerish. However, as the book progresses, it becomes clear his intentions were good, albeit misplaced, and he tries to learn to compromise. What isn’t up for debate though, is his completely protective and controlling nature and his dedication to Harper. It didn’t take me long to be firmly in his corner and willing him to succeed!
Harper, too, has had her fair share of difficulties to deal with. She has a quiet strength and determination, wanting to find her own way in life. Her weakness seems to be Conrad. Although she may not immediately realise it, it’s clear she also wants to protect him.
I love this author’s style of writing with the mix of mystery, emotion, suspense, darkness, spice and an intense and morally grey hero.
Harper, too, has had her fair share of difficulties to deal with. She has a quiet strength and determination, wanting to find her own way in life. Her weakness seems to be Conrad. Although she may not immediately realise it, it’s clear she also wants to protect him.
I love this author’s style of writing with the mix of mystery, emotion, suspense, darkness, spice and an intense and morally grey hero.
July 26, 2025
ARC Review!
This book was a wild ride - I was immediately hooked and I love that we had the same experience as Harper from the very beginning in her point of view. We only knew as much as she did and had to deal with that confusion with her.
The journey we went on with her was wild and unexpected. There was pining, losing her and finding her again, danger, and possessiveness. The touch her and die vibes were perfect!
Conrad was a hard character to like, but I definitely warmed up to him. Zini was able to humanise him and provide reasons for how he is the way he is without forcing anything.
There is a lot of spice. I give this a 4/5 on spice becasue there is plenty of open door scenes, but nothing crazy kinky.
I read this book in one night and couldn't go to sleep until I finished it because I just had to know how it ended!
This book was a wild ride - I was immediately hooked and I love that we had the same experience as Harper from the very beginning in her point of view. We only knew as much as she did and had to deal with that confusion with her.
The journey we went on with her was wild and unexpected. There was pining, losing her and finding her again, danger, and possessiveness. The touch her and die vibes were perfect!
Conrad was a hard character to like, but I definitely warmed up to him. Zini was able to humanise him and provide reasons for how he is the way he is without forcing anything.
There is a lot of spice. I give this a 4/5 on spice becasue there is plenty of open door scenes, but nothing crazy kinky.
I read this book in one night and couldn't go to sleep until I finished it because I just had to know how it ended!
August 3, 2025
His Gift throws you straight into an intense, emotionally charged scene that immediately sets the tone for this dark romance. The story is heavily centered on the relationship, with the plot feeling more like a backdrop. Even during the climax, the external stakes take a back seat.
The morally grey MMC is absolutely swoon-worthy, possessive in a “touch her and you die” way, and shows great personal growth throughout. In contrast, the FMC’s arc felt more stagnant. Her development seemed to loop rather than progress, which made parts of the story feel repetitive.
The pacing and structure felt a little disjointed, but readers who enjoy character-driven dark romance with emotionally intense dynamics will still find plenty to love.
The morally grey MMC is absolutely swoon-worthy, possessive in a “touch her and you die” way, and shows great personal growth throughout. In contrast, the FMC’s arc felt more stagnant. Her development seemed to loop rather than progress, which made parts of the story feel repetitive.
The pacing and structure felt a little disjointed, but readers who enjoy character-driven dark romance with emotionally intense dynamics will still find plenty to love.
August 3, 2025
His Gift by Sienna Zini ARC
My only con to this book is I WANTED MORE!!!
Honestly it had me hooked from the get go, like this guy is unhinged with no social concept but she still wants him, and then the added dramatic twist of a gang after her after she finds out their secret! Whaaaaat! This is why I needed more!
Honestly though, it was a great read, it was great to see them both come together, exploring and building trust and by the end of the story they both are a better person because they are together, having learnt from each other through their life experiences and their own personal journey and they both care for one another and look after each other.
Highly recommend giving this story a go and I am looking forward to exploring more writing from Sienna Zini!
My only con to this book is I WANTED MORE!!!
Honestly it had me hooked from the get go, like this guy is unhinged with no social concept but she still wants him, and then the added dramatic twist of a gang after her after she finds out their secret! Whaaaaat! This is why I needed more!
Honestly though, it was a great read, it was great to see them both come together, exploring and building trust and by the end of the story they both are a better person because they are together, having learnt from each other through their life experiences and their own personal journey and they both care for one another and look after each other.
Highly recommend giving this story a go and I am looking forward to exploring more writing from Sienna Zini!
August 19, 2025
Thank you to the Author’s Archive and Sienna Zini for allowing me to read an eARC of His Gift!! These opinions are my own!
What a WILD ride that was!!! I mean sometimes things got a little maniacal but I was totally here for it.
This book had some of my most favorite quotes of all time… but they’re too naughty for a review so you’ll just have to take my word for it and go read it because it was delicious and insane!!!
This was super spicy in the best way and definitely had some dark topics but overall I loved the message and the growth the main characters had!!
Please go read!!! It’s a perfect smutty dark romance quick read and good time!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#darkromance #hisgift #traumaandgrowth #hotstalker #mafiavibes #somanychillipeppers
What a WILD ride that was!!! I mean sometimes things got a little maniacal but I was totally here for it.
This book had some of my most favorite quotes of all time… but they’re too naughty for a review so you’ll just have to take my word for it and go read it because it was delicious and insane!!!
This was super spicy in the best way and definitely had some dark topics but overall I loved the message and the growth the main characters had!!
Please go read!!! It’s a perfect smutty dark romance quick read and good time!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#darkromance #hisgift #traumaandgrowth #hotstalker #mafiavibes #somanychillipeppers
October 22, 2025
LOVED! I absolutely love love love this book. I have been stuck in a serious slump and this shook me right out of it delivering something unique while still hitting my favorite tropes. From the start this book is completely unhinged in all the best ways (check tw’s). There were a couple times I thought this is great, but where do we go from here and each time the author took it in a completely unexpected direction. This story was exceptionally well structured with great pace. Best of all there are no 🙄 moments of stupidity from either character. The MMC is neurodivergent which I always love he’s also an OTT obsessive unhinged psychopathic stalker he does it all! The FMC was relatable and believable, smart and independent.
July 10, 2025
Well, this was a wild ride 🖤
From the first chapter to the last, my jaw was on the floor and I kept asking myself: WTH am I reading?!
The twists? The tension? The spice? Chef’s kiss.
It’s sweet. It’s very dark. It’s totally addictive.
Harper is such a strong, complex character—traumatized but real, sassy but soft. I felt every part of her struggle.
Conrad made me gasped out loud multiple times. His methods are questionable but once the full picture clicked, he had me wrapped around his morally grey little finger.
“Chances are he’s a psycho, but damn, he knows how to f**k.”
Yep. Still blushing. Still drooling. No regrets. 😂🔥
From the first chapter to the last, my jaw was on the floor and I kept asking myself: WTH am I reading?!
The twists? The tension? The spice? Chef’s kiss.
It’s sweet. It’s very dark. It’s totally addictive.
Harper is such a strong, complex character—traumatized but real, sassy but soft. I felt every part of her struggle.
Conrad made me gasped out loud multiple times. His methods are questionable but once the full picture clicked, he had me wrapped around his morally grey little finger.
“Chances are he’s a psycho, but damn, he knows how to f**k.”
Yep. Still blushing. Still drooling. No regrets. 😂🔥
July 24, 2025
My honest ARC review of 'His Gift' by Sienna Zini.
Oof where to start, so much to unpack!
From the start you were thrown into some bell pepper scenes which made my head turn tbh.
But i pushes through.
Twists and turns, their scenes together made me swallow sometimes.
Harper is such a sweet character, even she has gone through so much in her life.
Conrad, well, I'm still on the fence since his methods were scratch my head worthy.
If you like dark romance, suspense, lots of peppers!! Then this is your book.
Oof where to start, so much to unpack!
From the start you were thrown into some bell pepper scenes which made my head turn tbh.
But i pushes through.
Twists and turns, their scenes together made me swallow sometimes.
Harper is such a sweet character, even she has gone through so much in her life.
Conrad, well, I'm still on the fence since his methods were scratch my head worthy.
If you like dark romance, suspense, lots of peppers!! Then this is your book.
August 13, 2025
This started off with a BANG (literally 🥵). Honestly I was very worried at the start, it was giving major Stockholm syndrome vibes, and whilst I enjoy the stalking trope, the kidnapping and drugging her definitely had me going 🤨🤨🤨
However as you read more the relationship does become a lot more consensual, honest and open. It demonstrates a lot of toxic communication, but also how people can change and learn to communicate in healthier ways.
I really enjoyed this, and bonus points for spicy artwork throughout the book 🤭
However as you read more the relationship does become a lot more consensual, honest and open. It demonstrates a lot of toxic communication, but also how people can change and learn to communicate in healthier ways.
I really enjoyed this, and bonus points for spicy artwork throughout the book 🤭
October 18, 2025
I didn't finish it.
Spoilers.
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The first pages are her waking up drugged with him raping her. He tells her she is his and they are perfect for each other.
She is unhappy. He agrees to return her to her home as he wants her to be happy. He brings her breakfast, offers to meet her for lunch at her job, has sex with her at night with her consent.
He finds out her uncle abused her as a child so he kills him. He beats up her ex husband who keeps calling her
I just didn't feel their connection. I didn't finish it
Spoilers.
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The first pages are her waking up drugged with him raping her. He tells her she is his and they are perfect for each other.
She is unhappy. He agrees to return her to her home as he wants her to be happy. He brings her breakfast, offers to meet her for lunch at her job, has sex with her at night with her consent.
He finds out her uncle abused her as a child so he kills him. He beats up her ex husband who keeps calling her
I just didn't feel their connection. I didn't finish it
July 23, 2025
His Gift is Harper and Conrads story. This is a dark, stalkerish type journey with relatable characters and a storyline that pulls you in easily and quickly. It's full of intrigue and mystery, drama and lots of steam. Plenty of twists, turns and surprises keep readers turning the pages to see what's next. His Gift is a bit different from previous books I've read by this author but definitely every bit as fantastic. Definitely recommend reading!
August 1, 2025
ARC Copy -
Well don’t blink you will miss it !
Right from the opening page this book is spicing ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Stalker vibes are next level on this one and did someone say kidnapping ?!
There is a lot to unpack, plenty of spice and I find myself dying to know if there is a what comes next.
I did struggle in some parts to follow along and found myself wanting to know some more details BUT the spice be spicing in this book !
Enjoy the ride !
Well don’t blink you will miss it !
Right from the opening page this book is spicing ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Stalker vibes are next level on this one and did someone say kidnapping ?!
There is a lot to unpack, plenty of spice and I find myself dying to know if there is a what comes next.
I did struggle in some parts to follow along and found myself wanting to know some more details BUT the spice be spicing in this book !
Enjoy the ride !
August 5, 2025
Well this book starts off a little unhinged but I loved it. Right to the spicy stuff. I loved the storyline of the book. I thought it had a good plot. The FMC and MMC were interesting throughout the whole book but it was easy to love both of them. I felt for the FMC though. She was my favorite. The spicy scenes throughout were amazing. I enjoyed the few pictures in the book as well. They helped with the story. I very much enjoyed this book.
August 12, 2025
I adored this book!! The first chapter had me questioning if this book was really for me but I kept going and fell in love with Harper and Conrad. The character development alone was fabulous and then the creative story and Siennas talent for descriptive scenes made this book a page turner. I only put it down due to have little kids or I would have devoured it in a day. Highly recommend and I’m very excited for what’s next to come from the incredible author Sienna Zini.
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