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Where the Dark Knelt
"This is a love story born in the dark corners of a monastery, where a lost girl stopped believing in miracles… and met a demon who believed in her."
Tired of life and drowning in sorrow, Eveline escapes to a secluded monastery high in the mountains, hoping to find solace, rediscover her faith in God and perhaps in herself. But the path to becoming a nun is steeped in silence, solitude, and inner battles. Healing her soul and confronting her depression proves more difficult than she ever imagined.
Unbeknownst to her, she’s not alone in the dark. A demon watches from the shadows. Mysterious, patient, and endlessly drawn to her light, he has been waiting for the right moment to claim what he believes is his. Eveline, so vibrant yet so broken, calls to something deep and dangerous within him.
As temptation weaves its way into her prayers and dreams, Eveline is caught between sacred devotion and forbidden desire.
Will she yield to the demon’s pull or stand firm in the last fragile pieces of her faith?
A haunting paranormal demon romance about love, darkness, and the war between destiny and choice.
!THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
INCLUDES A TRIGGER WARNING MESSAGE!
This book can be read as standalone.
#paranormalromance #demonromance #darkromance
Tired of life and drowning in sorrow, Eveline escapes to a secluded monastery high in the mountains, hoping to find solace, rediscover her faith in God and perhaps in herself. But the path to becoming a nun is steeped in silence, solitude, and inner battles. Healing her soul and confronting her depression proves more difficult than she ever imagined.
Unbeknownst to her, she’s not alone in the dark. A demon watches from the shadows. Mysterious, patient, and endlessly drawn to her light, he has been waiting for the right moment to claim what he believes is his. Eveline, so vibrant yet so broken, calls to something deep and dangerous within him.
As temptation weaves its way into her prayers and dreams, Eveline is caught between sacred devotion and forbidden desire.
Will she yield to the demon’s pull or stand firm in the last fragile pieces of her faith?
A haunting paranormal demon romance about love, darkness, and the war between destiny and choice.
!THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
INCLUDES A TRIGGER WARNING MESSAGE!
This book can be read as standalone.
#paranormalromance #demonromance #darkromance
- GenresDark Romance
429 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
3 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Dari A. Malaunt
11 books98 followersDari A. Malaunt weaves fantasy romance with a dark twist, exploring the complex struggles of love, power, and redemption in her characters' journeys. She’s the mind behind "Horns Unveiled" romantasy duology, "Unrequited Love" dark romance trilogy, "Divine Destinies" dark romantasy series and "Worshipped by Darkness" paranormal romance series. When she's not writing, you can find her balancing life as a student and office worker, often dreaming of the worlds she creates, where magic and passion collide.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 22, 2025
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The concept for this book is so unique that I loved reading it so much and didn’t want it to end! The character and world building is done so well in my opinion and you really get to understand the depths to the two main characters, and their growth throughout.
As MMC’s go, I wouldn’t mind a Daemon called Desmond to want me. He’s possessive, smart mouthed and down right BAD for his girl.
At first I didn’t know how I’d feel reading such a religious themed book, but I actually enjoyed it so much. It was definitely needed to merge the two main characters together so well. Literally opposites attract.
Honourable mention to the steamy bike scene because that is living rent free in my mind for the foreseeable!
Loved loved loved!! Steamy and so so good!
The concept for this book is so unique that I loved reading it so much and didn’t want it to end! The character and world building is done so well in my opinion and you really get to understand the depths to the two main characters, and their growth throughout.
As MMC’s go, I wouldn’t mind a Daemon called Desmond to want me. He’s possessive, smart mouthed and down right BAD for his girl.
At first I didn’t know how I’d feel reading such a religious themed book, but I actually enjoyed it so much. It was definitely needed to merge the two main characters together so well. Literally opposites attract.
Honourable mention to the steamy bike scene because that is living rent free in my mind for the foreseeable!
Loved loved loved!! Steamy and so so good!
July 16, 2025
Arc review
Thank you Dari A Malaunt for the possibility of reading your book as part of your ARC team! It is a beautiful story, with unique characters!
I liked Eveline's story and her emergence from depression and loss to freedom and ability to love without restraint.
I liked Desmond 's road from selfishness and abandonment to dedication and sobriety (as much as is possible for a demon🤭). And all through love!
I enjoyed the shift of perspective from one character to another, and the way the story progressed from different points over view, and the way the story is intertwined.
And this book has so much spice!!☺️A catchy story, I couldn't put it down!
Thank you Dari A Malaunt for the possibility of reading your book as part of your ARC team! It is a beautiful story, with unique characters!
I liked Eveline's story and her emergence from depression and loss to freedom and ability to love without restraint.
I liked Desmond 's road from selfishness and abandonment to dedication and sobriety (as much as is possible for a demon🤭). And all through love!
I enjoyed the shift of perspective from one character to another, and the way the story progressed from different points over view, and the way the story is intertwined.
And this book has so much spice!!☺️A catchy story, I couldn't put it down!
August 4, 2025
☆ Arc team review ☆
When I saw the synopsis given for the opening of the ARC inscriptions, I JUMPED on the occasion. I'm SO glad I did.
The pure ANGST we go through with Eveline is so heart wrecking. The struggle to fight against a devilish temptation is nerve frying, and truly, I devoured the book !
Desmond is probably my favorite Demon/Succubus MMC I met in a while. I don't know how Eveline didn't succomb and kept the tension for SO LONG .... She is definitely a stronger warrior than me 😏🫡
If you want a great dark nun-to-be/demon romance but sprinkle it with the hot biker and leather clothes vibes ; don't chase further
< Where the Dark Knelt > is for you !
When I saw the synopsis given for the opening of the ARC inscriptions, I JUMPED on the occasion. I'm SO glad I did.
The pure ANGST we go through with Eveline is so heart wrecking. The struggle to fight against a devilish temptation is nerve frying, and truly, I devoured the book !
Desmond is probably my favorite Demon/Succubus MMC I met in a while. I don't know how Eveline didn't succomb and kept the tension for SO LONG .... She is definitely a stronger warrior than me 😏🫡
If you want a great dark nun-to-be/demon romance but sprinkle it with the hot biker and leather clothes vibes ; don't chase further
< Where the Dark Knelt > is for you !
August 3, 2025
ARC review- oh to be a girl with a demon obsessed with me 🖤 i absolutely loved this book. Desmond and Eveline were spicy and fun to read. a soon to be nun trying to find her purpose in life and a demon succubus who falls for her and watches her for 10 years while she’s living in the monastery. five stars for me!!
August 2, 2025
ARC Review:
What a wild ride! I really loved this slow burn paranormal demon romance. Once the burn started, it kicked up some high level (and very descriptive) spice!
I have never related to an FMC so much at the beginning of the book as I did to Eveline. Her descriptions of how working to survive is all we know how to do really hit home for me.
Following Eveline’s journey of healing and self discovery really shows that the path you think is marked for you, might not be the path you’re actually supposed to follow.
I can’t wait for the next book!
What a wild ride! I really loved this slow burn paranormal demon romance. Once the burn started, it kicked up some high level (and very descriptive) spice!
I have never related to an FMC so much at the beginning of the book as I did to Eveline. Her descriptions of how working to survive is all we know how to do really hit home for me.
Following Eveline’s journey of healing and self discovery really shows that the path you think is marked for you, might not be the path you’re actually supposed to follow.
I can’t wait for the next book!
July 21, 2025
// Thank you to the publisher and booksirens for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. //
This book’s cover is what drew me to it, and the amazing story kept me reading til the very end. Eveline’s storyline was beautiful, we see her emergence from depression, loss to freedom and ability to love without restraint. This book shifts from character to character in an easy flow. Oh and there’s a whole lot of spice!
October 2, 2025
Where the Dark Knelt was not my usual reads for me. However, thank you, Dari A. Malaunt for the ARC. It was a pleasure to read something different.
This definitely was a dark paranormal romance with a whole lot of spice!!
To be in a monastery, struggling with your own mental health… to then be tempered by a blonde haired demon. New level of spicing there 😎😎😎
October 9, 2025
This one was so much fun. I loved the dual POV. I love to know what is going on inside everyone's mind, and this is my favorite way. The story was very descriptive and made me feel like I was right there with them. And the Spice! yum hehe. I definitely enjoyed this book.
July 25, 2025
Where do I even begin? This story was so well thought out. I started with super high hopes and it did not disappoint.
We meet Eveline when she is struggling with her mental health and in need of support. We follow her journey to the monastery where she begins building her new life and sisterhood.
Crash landing in chapter five, Desmond, a succubus demon, greets us with his sly and cunning personality. This is when we are also introduced to a dual POV.
The use of descriptive words to helped submerse me into the world. This style of writing really helped me picture what was happening in the story. It was clearly thought out and I struggled to find any plot holes. Eveline is given a witty and dry personality. Which is a contrast to the humble nuns she is surrounded with. Her inner monologue made me laugh out loud on numerous occasions.
CHAPTER 10 !! That's all I'll say on that matter.
It was exciting to see how Desmond and Eveline's relationship developed together and also individually throughout the book. All their struggles were important for them to come together as one. This is a fast paced novel filled with lots of information but is easy to follow. I love when authors don't dwell on problems and drag them out chapter by chapter and just move onto the next fast paced part.
The spice also spiced deliciously.🌶️
Can't wait for the next story!!
We meet Eveline when she is struggling with her mental health and in need of support. We follow her journey to the monastery where she begins building her new life and sisterhood.
Crash landing in chapter five, Desmond, a succubus demon, greets us with his sly and cunning personality. This is when we are also introduced to a dual POV.
The use of descriptive words to helped submerse me into the world. This style of writing really helped me picture what was happening in the story. It was clearly thought out and I struggled to find any plot holes. Eveline is given a witty and dry personality. Which is a contrast to the humble nuns she is surrounded with. Her inner monologue made me laugh out loud on numerous occasions.
CHAPTER 10 !! That's all I'll say on that matter.
It was exciting to see how Desmond and Eveline's relationship developed together and also individually throughout the book. All their struggles were important for them to come together as one. This is a fast paced novel filled with lots of information but is easy to follow. I love when authors don't dwell on problems and drag them out chapter by chapter and just move onto the next fast paced part.
The spice also spiced deliciously.🌶️
Can't wait for the next story!!
September 29, 2025
4,5⭐️/5🌶
I loved this story! It was so detailed about the monastery life, I almost felt like I was walking the halls myself. I liked the build up of the storyline and the depth off characters it really kept me intrigued and on the edge of my seat. Eve really held out longer for Des then I would have!🫣
Also loved the biker aspect, it really was save the bike, ride the biker.🫠
Please read trigger warnings before reading!
Big thanks to @dariamalaunt for letting me be an ARC reader for this book!
I loved this story! It was so detailed about the monastery life, I almost felt like I was walking the halls myself. I liked the build up of the storyline and the depth off characters it really kept me intrigued and on the edge of my seat. Eve really held out longer for Des then I would have!🫣
Also loved the biker aspect, it really was save the bike, ride the biker.🫠
Please read trigger warnings before reading!
Big thanks to @dariamalaunt for letting me be an ARC reader for this book!
October 16, 2025
I loved that this was a dual pov story and thought that the concept for this book was unique. loved that the characters and world building were well created! the details in this one were phenomenal! it was a good read and I enjoyed it !
August 4, 2025
Some books whisper their pain—and others ache on the page. Where the Dark Knelt is a haunting, tender, and deeply intimate exploration of what it means to search for healing when you're already drowning.
Eveline is tired. Not just tired—bone-deep exhausted, grieving, and quietly unraveling. Her decision to escape to a remote monastery high in the mountains isn’t just about religion; it’s about trying to find something—anything—to anchor her. To quiet the noise inside her. Her journey into the monastic life isn’t romanticized—it’s raw, and full of quiet agony. Silence and solitude don’t immediately bring peace. They stir up everything she’s tried to bury.
And then there’s the presence in the shadows.
He’s not a savior. He’s not even safe. But he sees her—really sees her. A demon drawn to her pain, her light, her longing. It’s a relationship born in the dark places, where grief meets temptation, and where desire and despair blur until you’re not sure what’s holy and what’s just honest. The tension between them is lyrical, aching, and impossible to ignore.
What I loved most is that this isn’t just a story about romance or spiritual crisis. It’s about how healing is never clean. How faith and desire can coexist in the same breath. How light and darkness aren’t always opposites—sometimes they kneel beside each other, quietly, in shared grief.
Dari A. Malaunt writes with such a poetic, bruised grace. Her prose is beautiful without trying too hard, and her characters bleed across the page in ways that feel deeply, painfully human. Eveline’s depression isn’t treated like a plot device—it’s lived. Her struggle with faith is real. Her craving for connection, even in forbidden forms, is something many of us can understand more than we want to admit.
Final Thoughts:
Where the Dark Knelt is not a light read—but it’s a necessary one. For anyone who’s ever wrestled with their worth, their faith, or the parts of themselves they’ve been taught to hide, this story will feel like both a mirror and a balm.
It doesn't offer easy answers—but it does offer something just as powerful: the reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are still seen.
Eveline is tired. Not just tired—bone-deep exhausted, grieving, and quietly unraveling. Her decision to escape to a remote monastery high in the mountains isn’t just about religion; it’s about trying to find something—anything—to anchor her. To quiet the noise inside her. Her journey into the monastic life isn’t romanticized—it’s raw, and full of quiet agony. Silence and solitude don’t immediately bring peace. They stir up everything she’s tried to bury.
And then there’s the presence in the shadows.
He’s not a savior. He’s not even safe. But he sees her—really sees her. A demon drawn to her pain, her light, her longing. It’s a relationship born in the dark places, where grief meets temptation, and where desire and despair blur until you’re not sure what’s holy and what’s just honest. The tension between them is lyrical, aching, and impossible to ignore.
What I loved most is that this isn’t just a story about romance or spiritual crisis. It’s about how healing is never clean. How faith and desire can coexist in the same breath. How light and darkness aren’t always opposites—sometimes they kneel beside each other, quietly, in shared grief.
Dari A. Malaunt writes with such a poetic, bruised grace. Her prose is beautiful without trying too hard, and her characters bleed across the page in ways that feel deeply, painfully human. Eveline’s depression isn’t treated like a plot device—it’s lived. Her struggle with faith is real. Her craving for connection, even in forbidden forms, is something many of us can understand more than we want to admit.
Final Thoughts:
Where the Dark Knelt is not a light read—but it’s a necessary one. For anyone who’s ever wrestled with their worth, their faith, or the parts of themselves they’ve been taught to hide, this story will feel like both a mirror and a balm.
It doesn't offer easy answers—but it does offer something just as powerful: the reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are still seen.
August 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
ARC review
First off I would like to thank Dari A Malaunt and Booksirens for this ARC of Where the Dark Knelt and for the possibility of reading this book as part of your ARC team! 🤞🏼for a permanent position as part of your team. This review is 100% my own thoughts and feelings and haven’t been impacted by the author at all
This book provides multiple POV between the FMC and MMC, which I love when we get both POV and get to see what’s happening in both minds.
The characters in this story are unique and are very well thought out.
Our FMC is Eveline and we see her battle depression, with excessive dreams/nightmares and generally struggling with mental health and loss to freedom. We see her journey as she joins the monastery (and some of the stories that we hear from the sisters are so heartbreaking) to get the help she thinks she needs to come out the other side with the ability to love without restraint and feel a sense of peace.
Our MMC is Desmond and he is our succubus demon we will see him transform from selfish and forsaking to dedicated and sobriety, well as best as possible for a succubus demon.
These amazing characters evolve so much thought this book and all because of love, possessiveness and pure stubbornness not to give up!
Part 2 of this book is SPICY!! In the second half of this book you will see a lot of spice but it does not at all impact the story at all because you already have a brilliant plot and themes carry over into this next part.
If you love spicy books with emotionally layered topics and heroines, plus a possessive sometimes arrogant blonde demon who's loves his bike and had zero chill... this is your sign to read it, definitely a catchy story, I couldn't put it down once I started.
ARC review
First off I would like to thank Dari A Malaunt and Booksirens for this ARC of Where the Dark Knelt and for the possibility of reading this book as part of your ARC team! 🤞🏼for a permanent position as part of your team. This review is 100% my own thoughts and feelings and haven’t been impacted by the author at all
This book provides multiple POV between the FMC and MMC, which I love when we get both POV and get to see what’s happening in both minds.
The characters in this story are unique and are very well thought out.
Our FMC is Eveline and we see her battle depression, with excessive dreams/nightmares and generally struggling with mental health and loss to freedom. We see her journey as she joins the monastery (and some of the stories that we hear from the sisters are so heartbreaking) to get the help she thinks she needs to come out the other side with the ability to love without restraint and feel a sense of peace.
Our MMC is Desmond and he is our succubus demon we will see him transform from selfish and forsaking to dedicated and sobriety, well as best as possible for a succubus demon.
These amazing characters evolve so much thought this book and all because of love, possessiveness and pure stubbornness not to give up!
Part 2 of this book is SPICY!! In the second half of this book you will see a lot of spice but it does not at all impact the story at all because you already have a brilliant plot and themes carry over into this next part.
If you love spicy books with emotionally layered topics and heroines, plus a possessive sometimes arrogant blonde demon who's loves his bike and had zero chill... this is your sign to read it, definitely a catchy story, I couldn't put it down once I started.
October 2, 2025
I've finished reading my ARC copy of 'Where the Dark Knelt' written by Dari A. Malaunt. This is a paranormal romance and the first in the 'Worshipped by Darkness' series, but can be read as a standalone.
"No one understood depression. It was the plague of our century. Not as quick of dramatic as the Black Death, but deadly nonetheless. Slow, silent, relentless."
I'm a big fan of Dari's writing and this was another confirmation of why. This was a great story with a lot of emotions and tension building to a climax that fitted the story amazingly. I enjoyed it very much and I can't wait to see what Dari will spoil us with going forward.
"So you didn't come here to beg forgiveness for your sins... but to create new ones?"
This story is mainly about Eveline. Her world was dark and she lived in darkness through depressions and anxiety. To escape the darkness she fled away to a monastery, pledging her life in the light and to God. What will she do when darkness seems to have followed her there?
"You'll help, or I'll trap you in a pentagram for as many years as I live and you'll serve me. Ride or die. No games."
Like all Dari's stories, has this one also important and realistic themes that give the story an extra layer. It's a mixture of dark fantasy, spice and romance combined with struggles out of the real world. I really believe this combination makes her stories even more interesting and intriguing.
"Well, you know... Everyone has their secrets. And the power and strength of women is a scary thing... especially in anger."
I enjoyed this story very much. Like all her books it's written comfortable and it reads easy. Portraying strong characters that grow while the story builds. You will feel with the characters and will want to know what happens next. I give this story five deserving stars.
"No one understood depression. It was the plague of our century. Not as quick of dramatic as the Black Death, but deadly nonetheless. Slow, silent, relentless."
I'm a big fan of Dari's writing and this was another confirmation of why. This was a great story with a lot of emotions and tension building to a climax that fitted the story amazingly. I enjoyed it very much and I can't wait to see what Dari will spoil us with going forward.
"So you didn't come here to beg forgiveness for your sins... but to create new ones?"
This story is mainly about Eveline. Her world was dark and she lived in darkness through depressions and anxiety. To escape the darkness she fled away to a monastery, pledging her life in the light and to God. What will she do when darkness seems to have followed her there?
"You'll help, or I'll trap you in a pentagram for as many years as I live and you'll serve me. Ride or die. No games."
Like all Dari's stories, has this one also important and realistic themes that give the story an extra layer. It's a mixture of dark fantasy, spice and romance combined with struggles out of the real world. I really believe this combination makes her stories even more interesting and intriguing.
"Well, you know... Everyone has their secrets. And the power and strength of women is a scary thing... especially in anger."
I enjoyed this story very much. Like all her books it's written comfortable and it reads easy. Portraying strong characters that grow while the story builds. You will feel with the characters and will want to know what happens next. I give this story five deserving stars.
September 13, 2025
This book starts on a darker note, but talks about the reality so truthfully, shows what people struggle with both mentally, materialistically, physically, which is what I liked. It laid the ground, painting it with darker undertones, that made the story richer.
Eveline and Desmond's relationship started as a physical attraction, but morphed into something more beautiful, pure and amazing. I liked how Desmond started to care and look out for her, wanted to make her happy. And of course the obsession and posessiveness that came for him were so delicious to read. Loved those moments.
I also liked reading about the growth of Eveline. From broken, weak and very scared girl she became a brave, pure, hopeful, amazing woman. And her story shows, that in unexpected places you can find people that are going to accept and love you unconditionally, that those people are going to become your family, not by blood, but by choice, which to me is so beautiful and warm.
And the spice, was really spicing. It was hot, dark, really steamy read.
I gave this book 4 stars because I just felt that maybe the story was a little bit rushed (I think that sometimes some things were unnecessary long or pointless). Also I wanted to know more about the letter that she received… To me it was forgotten to quickly. But other than that it was a good, spicy, dark read about healing, finding yourself, temptations and love. I'm happy to be able to arc read this book for free. Looking forward to next books by this author:)
Eveline and Desmond's relationship started as a physical attraction, but morphed into something more beautiful, pure and amazing. I liked how Desmond started to care and look out for her, wanted to make her happy. And of course the obsession and posessiveness that came for him were so delicious to read. Loved those moments.
I also liked reading about the growth of Eveline. From broken, weak and very scared girl she became a brave, pure, hopeful, amazing woman. And her story shows, that in unexpected places you can find people that are going to accept and love you unconditionally, that those people are going to become your family, not by blood, but by choice, which to me is so beautiful and warm.
And the spice, was really spicing. It was hot, dark, really steamy read.
I gave this book 4 stars because I just felt that maybe the story was a little bit rushed (I think that sometimes some things were unnecessary long or pointless). Also I wanted to know more about the letter that she received… To me it was forgotten to quickly. But other than that it was a good, spicy, dark read about healing, finding yourself, temptations and love. I'm happy to be able to arc read this book for free. Looking forward to next books by this author:)
September 30, 2025
Devotion in the Dark and a Demon Who Sees Her
I devoured Where the Dark Knelt and wanted to kneel right back to it when I was done. Eveline’s exhaustion is bone-deep and beautifully rendered; her attempt to rebuild herself inside a mountain monastery feels raw, honest, and humane. Enter Desmond, a demon whose presence is temptation and tenderness, ruin and relief all at once. Their dynamic isn’t shock for shock’s sake; it’s intimacy forged in shadow, where faith and desire breathe in the same room. Dari A. Malaunt’s prose has that quiet, bruised grace I crave. The internal monologue is razor-dry, the pacing tight (no saggy middle), and the religious setting is handled with care rather than caricature, it matters to who these characters are. Opposites-attract and forbidden romance are dialled to perfection, and the spice… well. Consider me a convert.
Quotes that still own me:
* “There’s no God here… just me. Worship me, darling. Please…”
* “My bad girl who only ever wanted to be good… for me.”
* “What a woman…” I muttered. “The d*mn devil himself would envy me.”
Honourable mention to that scene (you know the one), and the way Desmond’s possessiveness walks the line between dangerous and devastatingly tender. Eveline is never reduced to a trope; her depression isn’t a prop, it’s lived, and her growth feels earned.
If you want a paranormal demon romance that’s sensual, sacrilegious, and surprisingly hopeful, this one doesn’t just flirt with the dark, it worships there.
I devoured Where the Dark Knelt and wanted to kneel right back to it when I was done. Eveline’s exhaustion is bone-deep and beautifully rendered; her attempt to rebuild herself inside a mountain monastery feels raw, honest, and humane. Enter Desmond, a demon whose presence is temptation and tenderness, ruin and relief all at once. Their dynamic isn’t shock for shock’s sake; it’s intimacy forged in shadow, where faith and desire breathe in the same room. Dari A. Malaunt’s prose has that quiet, bruised grace I crave. The internal monologue is razor-dry, the pacing tight (no saggy middle), and the religious setting is handled with care rather than caricature, it matters to who these characters are. Opposites-attract and forbidden romance are dialled to perfection, and the spice… well. Consider me a convert.
Quotes that still own me:
* “There’s no God here… just me. Worship me, darling. Please…”
* “My bad girl who only ever wanted to be good… for me.”
* “What a woman…” I muttered. “The d*mn devil himself would envy me.”
Honourable mention to that scene (you know the one), and the way Desmond’s possessiveness walks the line between dangerous and devastatingly tender. Eveline is never reduced to a trope; her depression isn’t a prop, it’s lived, and her growth feels earned.
If you want a paranormal demon romance that’s sensual, sacrilegious, and surprisingly hopeful, this one doesn’t just flirt with the dark, it worships there.
October 5, 2025
Where the Dark Knelt is a fun little paranormal romp. Reading it made me think of watching an episode of the original Charmed series, i.e. a paranormal story, set in a picturesque location.
The story focuses on Eveline, a very unhappy young lady, who moves into a convent to try to find herself. While there, she is noticed by Desmond, a local sex demon who, like most paranormal characters in this type of setting, has lived on earth for hundreds of years, and is therefore very wealthy. He races motorcycles for fun, and sets his mind on seducing Eveline.
Like Charmed, WtDK doesn't take itself too seriously, which makes for an enjoyable read. Yes, there are demons, but like on Charmed, they are not scary to the reader. We know that Eveline is afraid sometimes, but we also know that she will be safe and will work things out, and read on to see how this happens. The whole thing is a fun ride (pun intended) from start to finish.
4.5 stars
The story focuses on Eveline, a very unhappy young lady, who moves into a convent to try to find herself. While there, she is noticed by Desmond, a local sex demon who, like most paranormal characters in this type of setting, has lived on earth for hundreds of years, and is therefore very wealthy. He races motorcycles for fun, and sets his mind on seducing Eveline.
Like Charmed, WtDK doesn't take itself too seriously, which makes for an enjoyable read. Yes, there are demons, but like on Charmed, they are not scary to the reader. We know that Eveline is afraid sometimes, but we also know that she will be safe and will work things out, and read on to see how this happens. The whole thing is a fun ride (pun intended) from start to finish.
4.5 stars
July 20, 2025
🔥 ARC review 🔥
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶Millions chili peppers for this book, I swear to God! 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
This book wrecked me in the best freakyyyyy way. The pacing starts soft, but the emotional weight hits hard. The stories shared by the monastery sisters? Absolutely devastating. I genuinely cried. The way this book explores womanhood, suffering, and resilience cracked me wide open.
And then… enter the demon biker 🖤 He was unsettling at first, mysterious and dangerous but his obsessive love to Eveline? I’m in love. He made me fear him, then cheer for him, and eventually scream for him. Eveline hit the romantic jackpot, and I lived for every intense, chaotic moment between them.
Part 2? Absolute madness in the best possible way. I was kicking my feet in glee, screaming over scenes that had no right being that hot. That motorcycle scene? I will never recover. The phrase ride or die now comes with flames and sinful undertones.
If you love books with emotionally layered heroines, heartbreak, healing, and one possessive blonde demon who’s got a bike and no chill… this is your sign to read it🔥🔥🔥
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶Millions chili peppers for this book, I swear to God! 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
This book wrecked me in the best freakyyyyy way. The pacing starts soft, but the emotional weight hits hard. The stories shared by the monastery sisters? Absolutely devastating. I genuinely cried. The way this book explores womanhood, suffering, and resilience cracked me wide open.
And then… enter the demon biker 🖤 He was unsettling at first, mysterious and dangerous but his obsessive love to Eveline? I’m in love. He made me fear him, then cheer for him, and eventually scream for him. Eveline hit the romantic jackpot, and I lived for every intense, chaotic moment between them.
Part 2? Absolute madness in the best possible way. I was kicking my feet in glee, screaming over scenes that had no right being that hot. That motorcycle scene? I will never recover. The phrase ride or die now comes with flames and sinful undertones.
If you love books with emotionally layered heroines, heartbreak, healing, and one possessive blonde demon who’s got a bike and no chill… this is your sign to read it🔥🔥🔥
August 2, 2025
[[I received this book free as an ARC]]
I have been following Daria on SM for a while now. I picked up one of her other books and just fell in love with her world building, characters and the incredible art she does herself. I had to sign up to read Where the Dark Knelt when she announced a standalone Novella - I mean it didn't end up being a novella but we won't hold that against her.
I enjoyed the build up at the beginning of the book. I would say TW should include a lot of religious themes. The FMC felt so realistic - they lived and breathed their own path with God. I believe every thought, every internal monologue. They felt so real. In fact the religious element is why I knocked a star as for me its a bit triggering - my fault as I should have expected that with a book about a NUN!! I just didn't account for how real the characters would feel and how well I would connect with them. Genuinely the queen of dark romance over here!
I have been following Daria on SM for a while now. I picked up one of her other books and just fell in love with her world building, characters and the incredible art she does herself. I had to sign up to read Where the Dark Knelt when she announced a standalone Novella - I mean it didn't end up being a novella but we won't hold that against her.
I enjoyed the build up at the beginning of the book. I would say TW should include a lot of religious themes. The FMC felt so realistic - they lived and breathed their own path with God. I believe every thought, every internal monologue. They felt so real. In fact the religious element is why I knocked a star as for me its a bit triggering - my fault as I should have expected that with a book about a NUN!! I just didn't account for how real the characters would feel and how well I would connect with them. Genuinely the queen of dark romance over here!
September 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤 Where The Dark Knelt by Dari A. Malaunt is a hauntingly beautiful, sinful, and addictive tale of forbidden love. In the dark, echoing halls of a monastery high in the mountains, Eveline seeks peace, faith, and healing… but instead, she finds temptation in the form of a patient, relentless demon who’s been waiting just for her.
💔 Eveline’s battle with sorrow and silence pulled me in immediately. Her journey toward finding herself, while trying to hold on to her fragile faith was raw and moving. But then he appears… her demon. Her Desmond. And suddenly prayers turn into desires, devotion bleeds into temptation, and every moment feels drenched in longing.
🔥 And let me tell you… this book was SPICYYYYYYY. I mean… a demon and a nun?! 🙌🏻 The tension was unholy perfection. The altar scene? 😮💨 The bike scenes? 😮💨 Absolute chef’s kiss. Honestly, I want me a demon.
✨ My favourite line:
“But… now… Now he was there. My demon. My Desmond.”
If you love your romance dark, forbidden, and dripping with temptation, you need this book on your TBR. It’s a story that lingers, balancing faith and desire in the most deliciously wicked way.
🖤 Where The Dark Knelt by Dari A. Malaunt is a hauntingly beautiful, sinful, and addictive tale of forbidden love. In the dark, echoing halls of a monastery high in the mountains, Eveline seeks peace, faith, and healing… but instead, she finds temptation in the form of a patient, relentless demon who’s been waiting just for her.
💔 Eveline’s battle with sorrow and silence pulled me in immediately. Her journey toward finding herself, while trying to hold on to her fragile faith was raw and moving. But then he appears… her demon. Her Desmond. And suddenly prayers turn into desires, devotion bleeds into temptation, and every moment feels drenched in longing.
🔥 And let me tell you… this book was SPICYYYYYYY. I mean… a demon and a nun?! 🙌🏻 The tension was unholy perfection. The altar scene? 😮💨 The bike scenes? 😮💨 Absolute chef’s kiss. Honestly, I want me a demon.
✨ My favourite line:
“But… now… Now he was there. My demon. My Desmond.”
If you love your romance dark, forbidden, and dripping with temptation, you need this book on your TBR. It’s a story that lingers, balancing faith and desire in the most deliciously wicked way.
September 4, 2025
Thank you, Dari, for having me on your ARC-team!
I loved the storyline of the book! A nun and a demon?
Yes, please.
I enjoyed Eveline’s journey, her healing from depression and anxiety to finding herself loved, safe and whole.
The sisterhood is moving, vulnerable. Dari has an amazing way of describing emotions, it even had me tearing up in multiple places!
Desmond is also such a great character. He starts as such a stereotypical demon, but slowly transforms into something different by the end of the story.
The spice is scorching in this! If you’re sensitive to that kind of thing, be cautious about reading this book.
All in all, i enjoyed the story a lot. The characters are great and the storyline has its way of gripping you tight! I read the entire thing in just over a day, it would not let me put it down 😅
I loved the storyline of the book! A nun and a demon?
Yes, please.
I enjoyed Eveline’s journey, her healing from depression and anxiety to finding herself loved, safe and whole.
The sisterhood is moving, vulnerable. Dari has an amazing way of describing emotions, it even had me tearing up in multiple places!
Desmond is also such a great character. He starts as such a stereotypical demon, but slowly transforms into something different by the end of the story.
The spice is scorching in this! If you’re sensitive to that kind of thing, be cautious about reading this book.
All in all, i enjoyed the story a lot. The characters are great and the storyline has its way of gripping you tight! I read the entire thing in just over a day, it would not let me put it down 😅
August 5, 2025
{ARC REVIEW}
Holy cow If I could give it 10 stars I would.
This book was a ride you won’t ever want to forget. A slow burn between a trainee nun and a hot biker demon. Our main girl ran from her past to and becomes nun, only to end up becoming a demons new obsession. We follow the story of Eveline and her way to becoming a nun. She meets sisters who try to understand, and a hot demon who wanted nothing more than to make her, his, and his alone. It gives off the vibe of biker meets black cat and I love it. I inhaled this book on a two day vacation in the sun. It had its claws sink into me on the first chapter. Overall the book isn’t for the light readers, as it carries a few dark topics, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what is to come in the next book.
Holy cow If I could give it 10 stars I would.
This book was a ride you won’t ever want to forget. A slow burn between a trainee nun and a hot biker demon. Our main girl ran from her past to and becomes nun, only to end up becoming a demons new obsession. We follow the story of Eveline and her way to becoming a nun. She meets sisters who try to understand, and a hot demon who wanted nothing more than to make her, his, and his alone. It gives off the vibe of biker meets black cat and I love it. I inhaled this book on a two day vacation in the sun. It had its claws sink into me on the first chapter. Overall the book isn’t for the light readers, as it carries a few dark topics, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what is to come in the next book.
August 10, 2025
Arc review thank you so much to Dari Malaunt for giving me the opportunity!!!
From the first chapter I knew I was going to be absolutely OBSESSED!!! I’ve been in a terrible reading slump and this book brought me out of it, I did not want this book to end and can already not wait for the next book!!
I absolutely loved Eveline’s story from her being depressed and no hope for anything to her meeting Desmond and both of them growing together but also working independently to be better!! Desmond has my heart and I now have another obsession with a book boyfriend I won’t get to meet🤣!!
The spice 🌶️ in this book HIT places that I didn’t know could be hit!!! A face paced incredible read that deserves all the hype!!
From the first chapter I knew I was going to be absolutely OBSESSED!!! I’ve been in a terrible reading slump and this book brought me out of it, I did not want this book to end and can already not wait for the next book!!
I absolutely loved Eveline’s story from her being depressed and no hope for anything to her meeting Desmond and both of them growing together but also working independently to be better!! Desmond has my heart and I now have another obsession with a book boyfriend I won’t get to meet🤣!!
The spice 🌶️ in this book HIT places that I didn’t know could be hit!!! A face paced incredible read that deserves all the hype!!
August 20, 2025
She yearns for peace, but is drawn to chaos. This is what this book describes me.
Eveline is a deeply human protagonist. She is fragile, weary, and yearning for something beyond pain. Her struggle with depression is portrayed with raw honesty, never romanticized, and her spiritual journey is as much about survival as salvation. The demon, on the other hand, OH MY GOD, unnamed and enigmatic, is a masterclass in restrained seduction. He doesn’t burst into flames with the hell pit fork—he waits, watches, and whispers. His fascination with Eveline’s brokenness is unsettling and tender, making their connection feel both dangerous and inevitable.
This book was romantic with a dash of The Exorcist’s intensity.
Eveline is a deeply human protagonist. She is fragile, weary, and yearning for something beyond pain. Her struggle with depression is portrayed with raw honesty, never romanticized, and her spiritual journey is as much about survival as salvation. The demon, on the other hand, OH MY GOD, unnamed and enigmatic, is a masterclass in restrained seduction. He doesn’t burst into flames with the hell pit fork—he waits, watches, and whispers. His fascination with Eveline’s brokenness is unsettling and tender, making their connection feel both dangerous and inevitable.
This book was romantic with a dash of The Exorcist’s intensity.
August 28, 2025
It's been a hot minute since I read anything monastary related but Dari brings such to light through our beautifully written FMC Eveline. Pitting her against Desmond, our favourite succubus demon in a will she won't she journey that leaves the reader (or at least this reader) desperate for the answer but an answer you will have to discover by reading for yourself! No spoilers here. The innocence of Eveline is endearing as is her growth throughout the book, from a young woman crippled by depression to a woman who battled and continues to battle those figurative demons so she can enjoy the simple things in life. Dari said I would enjoy Eveline and Desmond's story and she wasn't lying. So grateful I was able to Arc Where the Dark Knelt.
September 25, 2025
My thoughts on this book are a bit chaotic. It’s really good and I loved it. I just have so many feelings about the story. It was so fun and enjoyable but it felt so rushed. Which I don’t totally mind. Desmond and Eveline are very good characters. I always adore a corruption troupe and the good old forbidden love. From the start I was a bit obsessed with the story and couldn’t wait to get more into it. Everything was so interesting and fun. I loved the darker elements too. Seeing Eve make her journey to her life with Des was thrilling. She genuinely loved him, and he genuinely loved her. I am very satisfied with these two’s relationship and end.
October 1, 2025
It has been a pleasure to be a part of your ARC team and get to read all of your fantastic books, and this one was no less! I loved following Eveline's journey, as she struggles with mental health issues that many others experience, making her relatable as a character.
And let's be real.... who doesn't want a possessive demon to make a move on you? He's possessive and has strong feelings for his girl. And what makes it even better... he's a biker too.
It is definetly new for me reading a book that has religious themes, but it went well with the other themes of the book and still kept me interested in the story regardless.
And let's be real.... who doesn't want a possessive demon to make a move on you? He's possessive and has strong feelings for his girl. And what makes it even better... he's a biker too.
It is definetly new for me reading a book that has religious themes, but it went well with the other themes of the book and still kept me interested in the story regardless.
October 8, 2025
This slow-burn paranormal romance featuring a demon is a captivating read that truly ignites once the spicy tension begins to build 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Eveline, the female main character, struck a deep chord with me; her insights about survival resonate strongly. Her journey of healing and self-discovery illustrates that the path we think we've been assigned may not be the one we are meant to take.
If you enjoy passionate novels that delve into emotionally complex themes and feature dynamic heroines—alongside a possessive yet sometimes arrogant blonde demon—this is the perfect book to pick up.
I received an advanced review copy for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
Eveline, the female main character, struck a deep chord with me; her insights about survival resonate strongly. Her journey of healing and self-discovery illustrates that the path we think we've been assigned may not be the one we are meant to take.
If you enjoy passionate novels that delve into emotionally complex themes and feature dynamic heroines—alongside a possessive yet sometimes arrogant blonde demon—this is the perfect book to pick up.
I received an advanced review copy for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
August 4, 2025
I have loved everything that Dari has written. This one is no different. When a young woman who feels lost in the word, drowning in depression and despair, leaves her life behind to stay in a monastery and potentially become a nun. Little did she know the demon that waits in the shadow for her.
Where I did thoroughly enjoy the book in completion, the beginning was a little slow, and there were some time jumps that through me off. But it was all worth it in the end as the story was epic.
I appreciate the journey that I get to go on with each of this authors books.
Where I did thoroughly enjoy the book in completion, the beginning was a little slow, and there were some time jumps that through me off. But it was all worth it in the end as the story was epic.
I appreciate the journey that I get to go on with each of this authors books.
August 10, 2025
First, I'd like to say I'm grateful for receiving this ARC and that I really enjoyed the book.
In this book, I really really liked Evelyn's character and how it grew through the story, I liked how the "sisterhood" was, and that made me happy. But there were some times where he (Desmond) didnt leave when she asked and that was what I didnt like in here, why its only 4 stars instead of 5 (but thats just personal preference and I think this preference would have changed if I read it while in a romance mood which as I now realise I was not). but over all I loved this book ;)
In this book, I really really liked Evelyn's character and how it grew through the story, I liked how the "sisterhood" was, and that made me happy. But there were some times where he (Desmond) didnt leave when she asked and that was what I didnt like in here, why its only 4 stars instead of 5 (but thats just personal preference and I think this preference would have changed if I read it while in a romance mood which as I now realise I was not). but over all I loved this book ;)
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