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Tangled Empires #1
Dark Atonement
Book One in the Tangled Empires Series
If I were a decent man, I’d regret what I did to that unwilling girl until the day I die.
Tricked into the worst kind of violence against a girl he didn’t even know, Alexi Kostrov faced an impossible choice when his victim turned up on his doorstep
Leave her to the mercies of the Mafia—or marry her.
The idea of a man like him as a husband was insane.
His brothers warned him he’d break her.
But the girl—and the baby she was carrying—needed the protection of the Bratva.
And there was no way in hell he was letting his worst enemy near his child.
In the stories I loved, the girl was always rescued. But no one was coming to rescue me. I had to go face this monster myself.
Marry into the Bratva or face the wrath of the Mafia?
They both sounded more like a death sentence than a choice.
But whatever it took—
Whatever price she had to pay—
Eloise Lombard would do anything to protect her baby.
Even if it meant sacrificing herself to the man who had broken her.
A personal note from the author:
Dark romance covers a huge range, so here’s a quick heads-up on what Dark Atonement is — and isn’t.
This is a slow-burn, psychologically intense story that digs deep into emotional trauma, power, and moral ambiguity. It’s character-driven, plot-heavy, and sets up the wider Tangled Empires series (though it works as a standalone too).
My books are dark romance with a strong emotional core — expect morally grey characters, intense themes, and high stakes. But I don’t write ‘pitch black’ romance where the aim is to push every boundary. Any darkness in my stories serves the plot and character growth. I want to go on a journey with you, not send you screaming into the abyss.
If you’re after a light, fun read with characters having a good time, this probably won’t be your thing — and that’s ok. There are brilliant authors out there doing just that. Read what brings you joy.
But if you like depth, complex characters, and stories that aren’t afraid to get messy… welcome. We’ve got a long road ahead together.
If I were a decent man, I’d regret what I did to that unwilling girl until the day I die.
Tricked into the worst kind of violence against a girl he didn’t even know, Alexi Kostrov faced an impossible choice when his victim turned up on his doorstep
Leave her to the mercies of the Mafia—or marry her.
The idea of a man like him as a husband was insane.
His brothers warned him he’d break her.
But the girl—and the baby she was carrying—needed the protection of the Bratva.
And there was no way in hell he was letting his worst enemy near his child.
In the stories I loved, the girl was always rescued. But no one was coming to rescue me. I had to go face this monster myself.
Marry into the Bratva or face the wrath of the Mafia?
They both sounded more like a death sentence than a choice.
But whatever it took—
Whatever price she had to pay—
Eloise Lombard would do anything to protect her baby.
Even if it meant sacrificing herself to the man who had broken her.
A personal note from the author:
Dark romance covers a huge range, so here’s a quick heads-up on what Dark Atonement is — and isn’t.
This is a slow-burn, psychologically intense story that digs deep into emotional trauma, power, and moral ambiguity. It’s character-driven, plot-heavy, and sets up the wider Tangled Empires series (though it works as a standalone too).
My books are dark romance with a strong emotional core — expect morally grey characters, intense themes, and high stakes. But I don’t write ‘pitch black’ romance where the aim is to push every boundary. Any darkness in my stories serves the plot and character growth. I want to go on a journey with you, not send you screaming into the abyss.
If you’re after a light, fun read with characters having a good time, this probably won’t be your thing — and that’s ok. There are brilliant authors out there doing just that. Read what brings you joy.
But if you like depth, complex characters, and stories that aren’t afraid to get messy… welcome. We’ve got a long road ahead together.
- GenresDark Romance
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2025
About the author
Anna Harding
12 books17 followersAnna Harding writes dark romance that cuts deep—psychological stories rooted in pain, power, and obsession. Her work explores the cost of survival, the pull of forbidden desire, and the emotional complexity of characters who live in a morally grey world. With a literary sensibility and an unflinching gaze, Anna crafts narratives that are as emotionally layered as they are addictive.
Her heroines are flawed, her anti-heroes dangerous, and her stories unapologetically intense.
Anna lives in the UK, teaches English Literature, doesn’t believe in housework, doesn’t believe in dieting and sometimes annoys the neighbours by yodelling. She likes walking her dog and also creates poetry under a different name.
Anna believes all her characters deserve a happy ending. But first, they have to earn it…
Her heroines are flawed, her anti-heroes dangerous, and her stories unapologetically intense.
Anna lives in the UK, teaches English Literature, doesn’t believe in housework, doesn’t believe in dieting and sometimes annoys the neighbours by yodelling. She likes walking her dog and also creates poetry under a different name.
Anna believes all her characters deserve a happy ending. But first, they have to earn it…
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 28, 2025
Disclosure – I received a free arc of Book 4 Forbidden Love in return for making a Goodreads account and giving an honest review of the Tangled Empires series.
The Good
Great writing. No AI, properly edited, elegant phrasing. Better writing than most books in the Dark Romance genre.
Proper plot. The characters are well developed and realistic, not caricatures. Alexi in particular is very well realised. Not just rich and powerful but flawed and f*cked up. His journey from selfish young man to responsible husband is very well handled. This is how real people behave. They don’t change overnight.
The darker scenes are handled well and play a key part in the plot.
The Bad
I don’t feel the book would work as a standalone. It’s great as the start of the series and it does complete the character arc of the main characters but some story arcs continue a lot deeper into the series. Reading books 2-4 I get the foreshadowing in book 1. But if you stopped after book 1 you might feel it doesn’t tie everything up. Particularly with Aurelio who features heavily in books 2 and 3.
Might be too dark for some readers. I’d suggest the trigger warnings should be at the front of the book rather than the back.
Because the characters aren’t stereotypes they might not tick the boxes for readers looking for cookie cutter ‘helpless heroine’ and ‘tough hero’.
The Maybe
Eloise is 17 at the start of the book. It does work for the plot and I get that it is because she goes on a journey from victim to confident wife (and even quite a bossy wife in later books) but it might have still worked ok if she was 18.
Strongly suggest the author markets this to hit the Cora Reilly fans rather than Haunting Adeline fans. There is darkness (more than in Reilly’s books) but the focus is the plot and the characters, not the shock factor.
The Good
Great writing. No AI, properly edited, elegant phrasing. Better writing than most books in the Dark Romance genre.
Proper plot. The characters are well developed and realistic, not caricatures. Alexi in particular is very well realised. Not just rich and powerful but flawed and f*cked up. His journey from selfish young man to responsible husband is very well handled. This is how real people behave. They don’t change overnight.
The darker scenes are handled well and play a key part in the plot.
The Bad
I don’t feel the book would work as a standalone. It’s great as the start of the series and it does complete the character arc of the main characters but some story arcs continue a lot deeper into the series. Reading books 2-4 I get the foreshadowing in book 1. But if you stopped after book 1 you might feel it doesn’t tie everything up. Particularly with Aurelio who features heavily in books 2 and 3.
Might be too dark for some readers. I’d suggest the trigger warnings should be at the front of the book rather than the back.
Because the characters aren’t stereotypes they might not tick the boxes for readers looking for cookie cutter ‘helpless heroine’ and ‘tough hero’.
The Maybe
Eloise is 17 at the start of the book. It does work for the plot and I get that it is because she goes on a journey from victim to confident wife (and even quite a bossy wife in later books) but it might have still worked ok if she was 18.
Strongly suggest the author markets this to hit the Cora Reilly fans rather than Haunting Adeline fans. There is darkness (more than in Reilly’s books) but the focus is the plot and the characters, not the shock factor.
October 3, 2025
Wow! THIS is what I'm talking about!
This is a standalone HEA.
So good. Alexi is tricked to grape Eloise by Eloise's sociopathic cousin. He is the definition of ruthless and would sacrifice anyone to get what he wants.
I like dark romance and most books that purport to be dark, aren't dark enough for me. This isn't as dark as I would normally prefer but it kept my interest and I absolutely loved it.
one thing I want to add though, why do authors insist on using virtual voice for audio books? Not only is it terrible, but it takes work away from other artists - narrators. I won't ever buy a book with virtual voice and I won't listen to them free either. I lose a little respect for authors that choose to create audio books this way.
This is a standalone HEA.
So good. Alexi is tricked to grape Eloise by Eloise's sociopathic cousin. He is the definition of ruthless and would sacrifice anyone to get what he wants.
I like dark romance and most books that purport to be dark, aren't dark enough for me. This isn't as dark as I would normally prefer but it kept my interest and I absolutely loved it.
one thing I want to add though, why do authors insist on using virtual voice for audio books? Not only is it terrible, but it takes work away from other artists - narrators. I won't ever buy a book with virtual voice and I won't listen to them free either. I lose a little respect for authors that choose to create audio books this way.
September 23, 2025
A bit lighter than my usual smut (i seek out some very dark stories) however an enjoyable read. I do feel like the characters have depth and I was rooting for them at the end. I've just downloaded book 2.
April 25, 2026
Huge spoilers just know I am so thankful to have the opportunity to read and review Dark Atonement. I never wanted the story to end.
Alexi likes to have rough sex and is very aggressive his father wants him to settle down with one woman.
Eloise is from England she’s in New York meeting her cousin for the first time and staying with her cousin Bella family.
Which is harder than she ever could have imagined since she lives in a mafia house. The rules are different her cousin Isabella has to not only obey her father but her brother as well. They all dictate her.
I knew what Eloise cousin Aurelio was up to when he wanted to take her picture what a bastard.
Eloise was a virgin and now she’s pregnant with Alexi baby. Her cousin Aurelio would kill the baby because it has Alexi blood Russian blood. Eloise has Italian blood.
In order to keep his child and Eloise both safe she has to move in with him and his brothers, his sister and parented as well as marry her.
Eloise started to see the real Alexi and he wasn’t so bad. Their relationship grew deeper before and after their daughter was born he even told Eloise he love her 1st.
Things soon took a wrong turn with the head of border control being murdered all the hard work Alexi brother worked to get introduced to him and to bribe him went down the drain now that the man is dead. And Alexi thinks his own wife betrayed him by telling her family about their deal with the head border control.
Alexi brother Anton secretly been seeing the woman he loves.
Comes to find out it’s been Serena who is Eloise half sister but their father don’t want her to marry a Russian. And if Anton marry Serena he want be his father heir.
Serena doesn’t like her half sister Eloise which I understand she was able to marry Alexi who is a Russian but she can’t marry Alexi brother Anton. Reason why Eloise got to is because their father didn’t raise her they just met and Eloise life has already taken a turn she had to do what she had to do for the survival of her and Alexi child.
“but Nemov is the kind of man who stops in the middle of torture to do a blood transfusion so he can enjoy his victim longer.” I thought this quote was very dark in a good way especially since it’s a mafia book. The fact he gives a blood transfusion to keep the person alive longer to be able to torture them some more was a great add I have never heard that one before.
Alexi likes to have rough sex and is very aggressive his father wants him to settle down with one woman.
Eloise is from England she’s in New York meeting her cousin for the first time and staying with her cousin Bella family.
Which is harder than she ever could have imagined since she lives in a mafia house. The rules are different her cousin Isabella has to not only obey her father but her brother as well. They all dictate her.
I knew what Eloise cousin Aurelio was up to when he wanted to take her picture what a bastard.
Eloise was a virgin and now she’s pregnant with Alexi baby. Her cousin Aurelio would kill the baby because it has Alexi blood Russian blood. Eloise has Italian blood.
In order to keep his child and Eloise both safe she has to move in with him and his brothers, his sister and parented as well as marry her.
Eloise started to see the real Alexi and he wasn’t so bad. Their relationship grew deeper before and after their daughter was born he even told Eloise he love her 1st.
Things soon took a wrong turn with the head of border control being murdered all the hard work Alexi brother worked to get introduced to him and to bribe him went down the drain now that the man is dead. And Alexi thinks his own wife betrayed him by telling her family about their deal with the head border control.
Alexi brother Anton secretly been seeing the woman he loves.
Comes to find out it’s been Serena who is Eloise half sister but their father don’t want her to marry a Russian. And if Anton marry Serena he want be his father heir.
Serena doesn’t like her half sister Eloise which I understand she was able to marry Alexi who is a Russian but she can’t marry Alexi brother Anton. Reason why Eloise got to is because their father didn’t raise her they just met and Eloise life has already taken a turn she had to do what she had to do for the survival of her and Alexi child.
“but Nemov is the kind of man who stops in the middle of torture to do a blood transfusion so he can enjoy his victim longer.” I thought this quote was very dark in a good way especially since it’s a mafia book. The fact he gives a blood transfusion to keep the person alive longer to be able to torture them some more was a great add I have never heard that one before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
Had its moments
Writing was mostly fine.
The premise has good bones but no one had a backstory fleshed out at all ..
Also why does the story start in 1989?
Why is the FMC only 17?
She's from England but no one mentions her accent?
I let it slide on the dark web chat rooms hinted at the beginning of the book for 1989.
But morning after pill sold OTC wasn't available in 1989.
Why is the MMC truly a pig & jerk to females? I mean truly a pig & yet his brothers & father seem decent?
This isnt a critique on the grape at the beginning.
The MMC gave me the ick a lot! He's on websites, trolling non con kink chat rooms (in 1989 no less) when he brags about buying hookers all the time?
Ick
What made the MMC that way? Hearing him talk about hookers or even his wife?
Extremely sexist thoughts on all women & his wife.
Everything in his marriage is centered around his sex life, his wife is expected to "be on tap" (his words) morning & night.
Then when her pregnancy is too far along he's forcing her to suck him (again his words) off 2 or 3 times a day?! (Heavily pregnant btw)
Don't even get me started on him saying "he'd never consider going to another woman because it would hurt her (the FMC)
He says this several times as his excuse & I'm like that's not enough at all.
The whole thing about if his wife couldn't handle lying in bed and pushing for a few hours ( while in labor) then no way could she or women in general withstand toughening up procedures used for torture- in reference to why the Bratva dont allow females in their ranks - the MMC pretty much decides his wife is proof that is the right call since she only had to lie in bed during labor & push & so it's obvious she can't handle pain.
Like I seriously COULD not believe a woman wrote this??
Of course more sexist inner monologue
"I'd also heard that women who fed from the breast were more likely to keep the shape of their t*ts. So it was good for the baby & good for me too"..
I know the MMC slowly starts to become less obnoxious when it comes to sex a bit but by then it was too little too late. Too much ick from a grown ass man and his doormat 17 year old wife.
Also nothing happened to the cousin who used the FMC as grape bait ?
Writing was mostly fine.
The premise has good bones but no one had a backstory fleshed out at all ..
Also why does the story start in 1989?
Why is the FMC only 17?
She's from England but no one mentions her accent?
I let it slide on the dark web chat rooms hinted at the beginning of the book for 1989.
But morning after pill sold OTC wasn't available in 1989.
Why is the MMC truly a pig & jerk to females? I mean truly a pig & yet his brothers & father seem decent?
This isnt a critique on the grape at the beginning.
The MMC gave me the ick a lot! He's on websites, trolling non con kink chat rooms (in 1989 no less) when he brags about buying hookers all the time?
Ick
What made the MMC that way? Hearing him talk about hookers or even his wife?
Extremely sexist thoughts on all women & his wife.
Everything in his marriage is centered around his sex life, his wife is expected to "be on tap" (his words) morning & night.
Then when her pregnancy is too far along he's forcing her to suck him (again his words) off 2 or 3 times a day?! (Heavily pregnant btw)
Don't even get me started on him saying "he'd never consider going to another woman because it would hurt her (the FMC)
He says this several times as his excuse & I'm like that's not enough at all.
The whole thing about if his wife couldn't handle lying in bed and pushing for a few hours ( while in labor) then no way could she or women in general withstand toughening up procedures used for torture- in reference to why the Bratva dont allow females in their ranks - the MMC pretty much decides his wife is proof that is the right call since she only had to lie in bed during labor & push & so it's obvious she can't handle pain.
Like I seriously COULD not believe a woman wrote this??
Of course more sexist inner monologue
"I'd also heard that women who fed from the breast were more likely to keep the shape of their t*ts. So it was good for the baby & good for me too"..
I know the MMC slowly starts to become less obnoxious when it comes to sex a bit but by then it was too little too late. Too much ick from a grown ass man and his doormat 17 year old wife.
Also nothing happened to the cousin who used the FMC as grape bait ?
March 14, 2026
dark and well written
Read
June 26, 2025Okay so this story starts out as H meeting someone online who is in to kink. They want to play out of kidnap/r8pe scene. She sends her his picture. The whole scene plays out. Come to find out this girl Eloise knew nothing about it and her cousin set her up to get brutalized so she would report his enemy to the police. Eloise becomes pregnant and because she’s afraid that her cousin will kill her baby she marries the guy that assaulted her.
They have a HEA eventually but I have NO idea why Eloise would even speak to her cousin again after what he did. Like none. Her reasoning? She wants her baby to know both side of her family. WTF.
They have a HEA eventually but I have NO idea why Eloise would even speak to her cousin again after what he did. Like none. Her reasoning? She wants her baby to know both side of her family. WTF.
March 30, 2026
📕 Instagram Post Review
📕 Dark Atonement: Tangled Empires Book One
✍️ Anna Harding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
I picked up *Dark Atonement* expecting a typical mafia romance - and it escalated into something far more intense than I anticipated.
From the start, the story throws you into a brutal situation surrounding Eloise Lombard, who finds herself trapped in a dangerous power struggle between two criminal worlds. Her unexpected encounter with Alexi Kostrov - a feared member of the Bratva - becomes the turning point that drives the entire story. He was never meant to be part of her escape, but the moment their paths cross, everything changes.
What really stood out to me was the complicated relationship between Eloise and Alexi. Alexi isn’t written as a polished hero - he’s rough, morally gray, and shaped by a violent world. But that’s exactly what makes the emotional tension work so well. When he’s forced to decide whether to return Eloise to Aurelio Dinelli or protect her by marrying her, the stakes become both personal and dangerous. The forced marriage and protection dynamic adds layers of conflict that kept me hooked.
The novel also doesn’t shy away from the darker side of mafia life. The looming threat of Aurelio, the internal politics within the Bratva, and Eloise trying to survive while carrying the weight of her trauma create a constant sense of danger throughout the story.
My only reason for not giving it a full five stars is that some scenes feel very emotionally heavy - though for fans of darker romance, that intensity will probably be exactly what they’re looking for.
If you enjoy dark mafia romances with morally gray characters, high-stakes tension, and emotionally charged relationships, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
Caption: Bratva danger, forced marriage, and a love story born in chaos… this mafia romance pulled me in fast 🖤🔥
#DarkRomance #MafiaRomance #EnemiesToLovers #RomanceBooks #BookSeries
📕 Dark Atonement: Tangled Empires Book One
✍️ Anna Harding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
I picked up *Dark Atonement* expecting a typical mafia romance - and it escalated into something far more intense than I anticipated.
From the start, the story throws you into a brutal situation surrounding Eloise Lombard, who finds herself trapped in a dangerous power struggle between two criminal worlds. Her unexpected encounter with Alexi Kostrov - a feared member of the Bratva - becomes the turning point that drives the entire story. He was never meant to be part of her escape, but the moment their paths cross, everything changes.
What really stood out to me was the complicated relationship between Eloise and Alexi. Alexi isn’t written as a polished hero - he’s rough, morally gray, and shaped by a violent world. But that’s exactly what makes the emotional tension work so well. When he’s forced to decide whether to return Eloise to Aurelio Dinelli or protect her by marrying her, the stakes become both personal and dangerous. The forced marriage and protection dynamic adds layers of conflict that kept me hooked.
The novel also doesn’t shy away from the darker side of mafia life. The looming threat of Aurelio, the internal politics within the Bratva, and Eloise trying to survive while carrying the weight of her trauma create a constant sense of danger throughout the story.
My only reason for not giving it a full five stars is that some scenes feel very emotionally heavy - though for fans of darker romance, that intensity will probably be exactly what they’re looking for.
If you enjoy dark mafia romances with morally gray characters, high-stakes tension, and emotionally charged relationships, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
Caption: Bratva danger, forced marriage, and a love story born in chaos… this mafia romance pulled me in fast 🖤🔥
#DarkRomance #MafiaRomance #EnemiesToLovers #RomanceBooks #BookSeries
June 9, 2026
An absolute masterpiece of dark romance that ruined me for all other books.
I went into Dark Atonement expecting a gritty mafia read, but Anna Harding delivered something far deeper—raw, psychological, and devastatingly beautiful. This is not your typical dark romance. It’s a slow-burn emotional gut-punch that explores guilt, trauma, power, and the jagged edges of redemption with unflinching honesty. Alexi Kostrov is everything I crave in a morally gray hero: brutal, commanding, and carrying the weight of a sin he never wanted to commit. The man is a walking storm—feared Bratva heir, cold as ice on the outside, but the moments when his guilt and protectiveness crack through? Absolutely electric. And Eloise Lombard… what a heroine. Fierce, broken, and unbelievably strong. She doesn’t just survive the nightmare she’s thrown into; she fights for her baby, for her dignity, and eventually for the man who shattered her world. Their chemistry is off-the-charts intense—hate, fear, and forbidden desire simmering until it explodes in the most satisfying way. Harding’s writing is exquisite. The tension is deliciously slow, the emotional layers are rich and complex, and the plot twists kept me glued to the page. Every scene drips with atmosphere, every interaction crackles with power dynamics that feel dangerously real. This book doesn’t shy away from the darkness—it leans into it, examines it, and somehow makes you root for these flawed, broken people to find their version of light. If you love dark mafia romance with forced proximity, pregnancy tropes, intense atonement arcs, and characters that will live rent-free in your head for weeks, stop what you’re doing and read this. Dark Atonement is addictive, heartbreaking, and utterly unforgettable. I’m already desperate for the next book in the Tangled Empires series and purchased it before finishing the first! Anna Harding is an auto-buy author for me now. This is dark romance at its very best.
I went into Dark Atonement expecting a gritty mafia read, but Anna Harding delivered something far deeper—raw, psychological, and devastatingly beautiful. This is not your typical dark romance. It’s a slow-burn emotional gut-punch that explores guilt, trauma, power, and the jagged edges of redemption with unflinching honesty. Alexi Kostrov is everything I crave in a morally gray hero: brutal, commanding, and carrying the weight of a sin he never wanted to commit. The man is a walking storm—feared Bratva heir, cold as ice on the outside, but the moments when his guilt and protectiveness crack through? Absolutely electric. And Eloise Lombard… what a heroine. Fierce, broken, and unbelievably strong. She doesn’t just survive the nightmare she’s thrown into; she fights for her baby, for her dignity, and eventually for the man who shattered her world. Their chemistry is off-the-charts intense—hate, fear, and forbidden desire simmering until it explodes in the most satisfying way. Harding’s writing is exquisite. The tension is deliciously slow, the emotional layers are rich and complex, and the plot twists kept me glued to the page. Every scene drips with atmosphere, every interaction crackles with power dynamics that feel dangerously real. This book doesn’t shy away from the darkness—it leans into it, examines it, and somehow makes you root for these flawed, broken people to find their version of light. If you love dark mafia romance with forced proximity, pregnancy tropes, intense atonement arcs, and characters that will live rent-free in your head for weeks, stop what you’re doing and read this. Dark Atonement is addictive, heartbreaking, and utterly unforgettable. I’m already desperate for the next book in the Tangled Empires series and purchased it before finishing the first! Anna Harding is an auto-buy author for me now. This is dark romance at its very best.
April 12, 2026
Prepare to be shocked.
I've read a lot of crime family books, whether they be Bratva, Mafia of all persuasions - Italian, Irish or even Greek & yes I know the latter two have their own names but I can't remember them just now! In all of them I can*absolutely* assure you that I've never come across a more brutal, stomach turning &, quite honestly, disgusting introduction between the main protagonists. I very nearly stopped reading right there but decided to continue, almost against my better judgement. Ultimately I'm glad I did because Eloise is one of the most interesting female characters I've encountered in this genre. She displays the kind of fortitude that is rare; not for her the terminally submissive mob wife. I will say that Alexi doesn't deserve her, not on any level, but the heart wants what the heart wants. I do think she needs therapy though!
The other standout character is her cousin, Alessandro, every woman needs one of him in their life. Alexi is someone I could take or leave, tbh probably the latter. A man so supremely unaware of the simplest niceties that it's really difficult to see what Eloise finds in him to love.
For being a crime families' book there's remarkably little blood spilt; it's far more about inflicting psychological pain, using others' weaknesses against them. Even when there is violence it's done off the page, we only learn about it after the fact, referenced mainly by discussion. The saving grace for the whole thing is undoubtedly Eloise. Her strength is what carries the action & props up some of the shakier aspects. She's also the only reason why I have given 4 stars & not knocked off one more for the blunt instrument that is Alexi!
Having said that, I'm more than happy to read more by Anna Harding, if she can create such a pleasing heroine that's the true testament to her writing.
I've read a lot of crime family books, whether they be Bratva, Mafia of all persuasions - Italian, Irish or even Greek & yes I know the latter two have their own names but I can't remember them just now! In all of them I can*absolutely* assure you that I've never come across a more brutal, stomach turning &, quite honestly, disgusting introduction between the main protagonists. I very nearly stopped reading right there but decided to continue, almost against my better judgement. Ultimately I'm glad I did because Eloise is one of the most interesting female characters I've encountered in this genre. She displays the kind of fortitude that is rare; not for her the terminally submissive mob wife. I will say that Alexi doesn't deserve her, not on any level, but the heart wants what the heart wants. I do think she needs therapy though!
The other standout character is her cousin, Alessandro, every woman needs one of him in their life. Alexi is someone I could take or leave, tbh probably the latter. A man so supremely unaware of the simplest niceties that it's really difficult to see what Eloise finds in him to love.
For being a crime families' book there's remarkably little blood spilt; it's far more about inflicting psychological pain, using others' weaknesses against them. Even when there is violence it's done off the page, we only learn about it after the fact, referenced mainly by discussion. The saving grace for the whole thing is undoubtedly Eloise. Her strength is what carries the action & props up some of the shakier aspects. She's also the only reason why I have given 4 stars & not knocked off one more for the blunt instrument that is Alexi!
Having said that, I'm more than happy to read more by Anna Harding, if she can create such a pleasing heroine that's the true testament to her writing.
June 23, 2025
I recently had the pleasure of reading ‘Dark Atonement by Anna Harding.
This is the first in the Tangled Empires Series.
It is both dark and romantic, hitting on topics of emotional trauma, power and intense scenes of violence.
It will have you on the edge of your seat shouting out in frustration at some of the characters decisions.
If William Shakespear was Kinky, this would be his Romeo and Juliette.
Only in a feud between the Italian Mafia and Russian Mobsters will you see underhand acts of violence and betrayal lead to love and union..
But is it enough to keep the peace??
I love how a hard, clearly emotionally undeveloped man child, with a love for the darker side of BDSM became a loving and protective husband.
I would have been intrigued to see more of the ‘Kinky’ side of Alexi, and how he became who he is, but then I am a lover of all things dark and somewhat tainted.
The character development in this book was brilliant, leading the story in a direction I wasn’t quite expecting.
There are plot twists and turns throughout.
This book was gripping from start to finish, I couldn’t put it down.
If you love a soft light-hearted book about all things nice and fluffy, then this probably isn’t for you.
However, if like me, you like books that are dark with hint of action, romance and a tone of trigger warnings, then I highly recommend giving ‘Dark Atonement a read’.
10/10.
This is the first in the Tangled Empires Series.
It is both dark and romantic, hitting on topics of emotional trauma, power and intense scenes of violence.
It will have you on the edge of your seat shouting out in frustration at some of the characters decisions.
If William Shakespear was Kinky, this would be his Romeo and Juliette.
Only in a feud between the Italian Mafia and Russian Mobsters will you see underhand acts of violence and betrayal lead to love and union..
But is it enough to keep the peace??
I love how a hard, clearly emotionally undeveloped man child, with a love for the darker side of BDSM became a loving and protective husband.
I would have been intrigued to see more of the ‘Kinky’ side of Alexi, and how he became who he is, but then I am a lover of all things dark and somewhat tainted.
The character development in this book was brilliant, leading the story in a direction I wasn’t quite expecting.
There are plot twists and turns throughout.
This book was gripping from start to finish, I couldn’t put it down.
If you love a soft light-hearted book about all things nice and fluffy, then this probably isn’t for you.
However, if like me, you like books that are dark with hint of action, romance and a tone of trigger warnings, then I highly recommend giving ‘Dark Atonement a read’.
10/10.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2026
He likes it hard, rough and unhinged.. and that very preferance lands him in trouble when his enemy uses it against him.
This book is emotionally devastating while thrilling at the sametime. For the best reading experience, your morality has to be thrown straight out the window before you even start the first chapter.. and if you're a Cora Reily fan this book would be a gem for you!
The circumstances that bring Alexi and Eloise together are far from ideal, but i can't stop tearing at the ending they got,,it wasn't an easy journey but it was lovely🥹! From vulnerable to tough-a$$ Eloise and from a rough around the edges to gentle and patient Alexi aaahh I loved these two. They're perfectly imperfect!
But damn, Eloise really went through it💔❤️🩹 She was too kind and sweet for her own good.
Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!
F**K
Not for the faint-hearted! Check your TWs!
💙Dark Mafia Romance
💙Forced Proximity
💙V!rgin FMC
💙Surprise Pregancy
💙Mention of SA
💙Possessive MMC
⭐️4.5|🌶🌶🌶.8
This book is emotionally devastating while thrilling at the sametime. For the best reading experience, your morality has to be thrown straight out the window before you even start the first chapter.. and if you're a Cora Reily fan this book would be a gem for you!
The circumstances that bring Alexi and Eloise together are far from ideal, but i can't stop tearing at the ending they got,,it wasn't an easy journey but it was lovely🥹! From vulnerable to tough-a$$ Eloise and from a rough around the edges to gentle and patient Alexi aaahh I loved these two. They're perfectly imperfect!
But damn, Eloise really went through it💔❤️🩹 She was too kind and sweet for her own good.
Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!Aurelio Dinelli!
F**K
Not for the faint-hearted! Check your TWs!
💙Dark Mafia Romance
💙Forced Proximity
💙V!rgin FMC
💙Surprise Pregancy
💙Mention of SA
💙Possessive MMC
⭐️4.5|🌶🌶🌶.8
July 6, 2025
Spoilers.
.
.
.
The hero seemed very inconsistent. The book starts off with him getting in trouble for being too rough with his family's whores. He likes to be very rough.
He is in a chat room trying to set up a rape fantasy scene. He gets her picture. But it was a trap. The heroine's cousin set her up to be raped and lose her virginity by the family's enemy. His plan was for her to come home and cry and then he would kill that guy after he was arrested in jail.
Instead she tries to cover it up. But she gets pregnant. She doesn't want her baby to be killed in revenge so she sneaks out and agrees to marry him at 17 years old to save her baby.
The hero wants her to be sex on tap for him. She is afraid of sex after his rape. So he is gentle with her. For the rest of the book he is kind and gentle in the bedroom.
Then he thinks she betrayed him and he ignores her for weeks. He is very angry. His brothers don't believe she betrayed them.
It turns out her evil cousin bugged the house. She is innocent.
He is sorry and they forgive each other. The Italians and Russians agree to a truce.
In the epilogue she buys hand cuffs and tells her husband to be rough.
.
.
.
The hero seemed very inconsistent. The book starts off with him getting in trouble for being too rough with his family's whores. He likes to be very rough.
He is in a chat room trying to set up a rape fantasy scene. He gets her picture. But it was a trap. The heroine's cousin set her up to be raped and lose her virginity by the family's enemy. His plan was for her to come home and cry and then he would kill that guy after he was arrested in jail.
Instead she tries to cover it up. But she gets pregnant. She doesn't want her baby to be killed in revenge so she sneaks out and agrees to marry him at 17 years old to save her baby.
The hero wants her to be sex on tap for him. She is afraid of sex after his rape. So he is gentle with her. For the rest of the book he is kind and gentle in the bedroom.
Then he thinks she betrayed him and he ignores her for weeks. He is very angry. His brothers don't believe she betrayed them.
It turns out her evil cousin bugged the house. She is innocent.
He is sorry and they forgive each other. The Italians and Russians agree to a truce.
In the epilogue she buys hand cuffs and tells her husband to be rough.
Read
October 27, 2025DNF 36% - her cousin set her up to get raped by the enemies. FMC (Eloise) is 17 and MMC (Alexi) is 25-27. The FMC agreed to cover for the MMC and not tell anyone about what happened. She then finds out she’s pregnant, tells him, and agrees to marry him for protection for the baby.
-Why was the story set in the 80’s?
-Alexi is so degrading towards women. All he cares about is sex. Eloise thanked him for not letting her blow him the same day she had a baby!!! He made a disgusting comment about her deciding to breastfeed as it benefits him as well because her “tits will be perky”.
-The first night they share a bed she wore disney pajamas and he felt disgusted and told her she’s not allowed to wear anything like that anymore. It’s almost as if she’s still a child….
-In the book it mentioned that the mmc mother raised them right to treat women with respect. But she and the rest of his family turned a blind eye and didn’t care that he was marrying and having a baby with a 17year old???
-The plot was not strong enough for me. It also confused me how she was still able to keep in contact with her family (the italian mafia) after running away? Makes no sense.
-Why was the story set in the 80’s?
-Alexi is so degrading towards women. All he cares about is sex. Eloise thanked him for not letting her blow him the same day she had a baby!!! He made a disgusting comment about her deciding to breastfeed as it benefits him as well because her “tits will be perky”.
-The first night they share a bed she wore disney pajamas and he felt disgusted and told her she’s not allowed to wear anything like that anymore. It’s almost as if she’s still a child….
-In the book it mentioned that the mmc mother raised them right to treat women with respect. But she and the rest of his family turned a blind eye and didn’t care that he was marrying and having a baby with a 17year old???
-The plot was not strong enough for me. It also confused me how she was still able to keep in contact with her family (the italian mafia) after running away? Makes no sense.
August 8, 2025
Dark Atonement is an unforgettable, slow-burn dark romance that gripped me from the first page. Anna Harding masterfully weaves a story of moral ambiguity, emotional depth, and high-stakes tension. Alexi and Eloise’s journey is raw, intense, and beautifully messy the kind of story that keeps you thinking about the characters long after you’ve finished. I loved how the darkness in this book isn’t just for shock it’s purposeful, driving the characters’ growth and making every twist hit harder.
The writing is immersive, the pacing keeps you hooked, and the emotional stakes feel real. The Bratva backdrop adds an extra layer of danger and intrigue, but it’s the complex, layered characters that truly shine.
The writing is immersive, the pacing keeps you hooked, and the emotional stakes feel real. The Bratva backdrop adds an extra layer of danger and intrigue, but it’s the complex, layered characters that truly shine.
November 1, 2025
Very uncomfortable read
It could have been much better if the MMC wasn't so cruel misogynistic and selfish. He raped in 17 year old girl even though it was a setup by her cruel sick cousin. He got the her pregnant and then he is still expects her to have sex even though she's terrified of him, not much atonement there! I know it's fantasy but it's certainly isn't Romance. The age difference was so far spread it was like pedophilia. It probably had a happy ending on down the line but I couldn't stomach it I could not finish this book and I would not recommend it to anyone.
It could have been much better if the MMC wasn't so cruel misogynistic and selfish. He raped in 17 year old girl even though it was a setup by her cruel sick cousin. He got the her pregnant and then he is still expects her to have sex even though she's terrified of him, not much atonement there! I know it's fantasy but it's certainly isn't Romance. The age difference was so far spread it was like pedophilia. It probably had a happy ending on down the line but I couldn't stomach it I could not finish this book and I would not recommend it to anyone.
June 21, 2026
3,5 stars
This is a solid story base, however there is things that didn't sit right with me.
1. I feel like most of the development of the relationship is lost. It's lacking and makes it difficult to connect with the characters
2. A pregnancy test doesn't show the answer after 5 days, she doesn't have a baby bump after what, 2 weeks? And she most definitely should NOT drink alcohol as pregnant. I considered these plotholes cuz then the timeline is confusing
3. I think the ending didn't necessarily fit. Everything sorted out too quickly
This is a solid story base, however there is things that didn't sit right with me.
1. I feel like most of the development of the relationship is lost. It's lacking and makes it difficult to connect with the characters
2. A pregnancy test doesn't show the answer after 5 days, she doesn't have a baby bump after what, 2 weeks? And she most definitely should NOT drink alcohol as pregnant. I considered these plotholes cuz then the timeline is confusing
3. I think the ending didn't necessarily fit. Everything sorted out too quickly
June 15, 2025
Beautifully written and completely absorbing.
I went in expecting a typical dark romance, but this was so much more. The emotional depth, the tension between the characters, and the way the story unfolded—it all felt deliberate and powerful. The writing is sharp, the atmosphere is intense, and there’s a real intelligence behind every choice. Definitely a standout in the genre. Highly recommend for readers who like their romance dark but meaningful.
I went in expecting a typical dark romance, but this was so much more. The emotional depth, the tension between the characters, and the way the story unfolded—it all felt deliberate and powerful. The writing is sharp, the atmosphere is intense, and there’s a real intelligence behind every choice. Definitely a standout in the genre. Highly recommend for readers who like their romance dark but meaningful.
October 4, 2025
3.5 stars.
The premise of this was really dark. I'm not sure about using a set-up rape scenario as punishment/ catalyst to start a gang war and then have the perp end up being the anti-hero is something which should have been written. I know the author gave warnings etc, that's not the issue. I think it's more about using something so emotionally and physically hurtful into a long term relationship. But that's just me.
Overall it was done well, but I probably won't be revisiting this one.
The premise of this was really dark. I'm not sure about using a set-up rape scenario as punishment/ catalyst to start a gang war and then have the perp end up being the anti-hero is something which should have been written. I know the author gave warnings etc, that's not the issue. I think it's more about using something so emotionally and physically hurtful into a long term relationship. But that's just me.
Overall it was done well, but I probably won't be revisiting this one.
June 15, 2025
If you love Cora Reilly, you need to read this. Reminded me a lot of Cora but darker and with more emotional depth. I got completely pulled into the story—the tension, the power dynamics, the slow burn… all of it. The characters felt real and messed up in the best way. Dark, intense, and addictive. Can’t believe this is a debut—seriously excited to see what the author writes next.
June 19, 2025
if you love cora reilly books you would love this
This book is not very dark. But it talks about sensitive topic that might trigger most people so read teigger warning. I expected more action and groveling. I am intrigued to read about Jamie and Lorena. Aurelio is such a villain he is exactly what I picture mafia men as.
This book is not very dark. But it talks about sensitive topic that might trigger most people so read teigger warning. I expected more action and groveling. I am intrigued to read about Jamie and Lorena. Aurelio is such a villain he is exactly what I picture mafia men as.
September 14, 2025
Hard to believe the romance honestly. I did think it was creative how the writer did non con but it was not on purpose essentially. I wasn’t sure how that would play out but I was actually believable. No intention of continuing this series I don’t think but it was ok.
June 22, 2025
Plot and pacy story rather than just sex scenes and violence. Better written than a lot of dark romance.
June 25, 2025
The premise was intriguing, but the characters felt too shallow. Also, all the names beginning with “A” were hard to keep up with. Alexi, Aurelio, Anton, Alessandro…
May 9, 2026
Alexi and Eloise
He got tricked into raping her. When she got pregnant she had no where to go except him as he was her cousins enemy.
Nice read. She forgave a lot
He got tricked into raping her. When she got pregnant she had no where to go except him as he was her cousins enemy.
Nice read. She forgave a lot
June 15, 2025
She forgives him way too easy. Not a romance quite boring
Read
June 22, 2026The MMC is 17 at the start of the book. This was intentional for her character arc. However as this has been raised as a concern by some readers, I will add it to the Trigger Warnings on my website, (Books 2 and 3 both have older female characters). (Apologies, the age of consent/marriage is 16 in the UK and my books reflect this.)
The interplay between the Bratva and the Mafia will differ to a lot of the books in the genre which tend to keep them very separate. However in the real world. the two did collaborate on occasion and research suggests it is not implausible to see them united by marriage.
It is really important to me to write real people rather than stereotypes. I like exploring complex people with personality flaws and because of this my characters will do and say things that both the author and readers will not like or agree with. This is intentional. Alexi isn't a 'romantic hero' he's a flawed man with no understanding of women beyond sex, shaped by a misogynistic society which tells him women are not equal to men. He behaves in a manner true to his character.
I don't share Alexi's sexist views, and I doubt any of my readers do, but no way am I writing a series of 16 books where everyone thinks and acts the same. I'd be bored to a stupor and my readers would be too.
Dark Atonement is the first book in a much larger series, and it’s designed to lay the foundations—not just for Alexi and Eloise, but for an entire network of stories that follow. You’ll meet characters here who seem secondary now, but whose lives and choices will take centre stage as the series unfolds. Family ties, rival factions, old betrayals, forbidden love—all of it is coming, and this book is where the web begins to tighten.
I wrote Dark Atonement for readers who enjoy characters that evolve slowly, realistically, and sometimes painfully. This series is for people who crave complexity, moral ambiguity, character development, and a long, interconnected story arc.
– Anna Harding
PS. Please note the headers at the top of each chapter which specify the dates. One reviewer seemed to get very confused and thought the MMC had a pregnancy bump after 2 weeks when the dates show a 4 month time jump.
The interplay between the Bratva and the Mafia will differ to a lot of the books in the genre which tend to keep them very separate. However in the real world. the two did collaborate on occasion and research suggests it is not implausible to see them united by marriage.
It is really important to me to write real people rather than stereotypes. I like exploring complex people with personality flaws and because of this my characters will do and say things that both the author and readers will not like or agree with. This is intentional. Alexi isn't a 'romantic hero' he's a flawed man with no understanding of women beyond sex, shaped by a misogynistic society which tells him women are not equal to men. He behaves in a manner true to his character.
I don't share Alexi's sexist views, and I doubt any of my readers do, but no way am I writing a series of 16 books where everyone thinks and acts the same. I'd be bored to a stupor and my readers would be too.
Dark Atonement is the first book in a much larger series, and it’s designed to lay the foundations—not just for Alexi and Eloise, but for an entire network of stories that follow. You’ll meet characters here who seem secondary now, but whose lives and choices will take centre stage as the series unfolds. Family ties, rival factions, old betrayals, forbidden love—all of it is coming, and this book is where the web begins to tighten.
I wrote Dark Atonement for readers who enjoy characters that evolve slowly, realistically, and sometimes painfully. This series is for people who crave complexity, moral ambiguity, character development, and a long, interconnected story arc.
– Anna Harding
PS. Please note the headers at the top of each chapter which specify the dates. One reviewer seemed to get very confused and thought the MMC had a pregnancy bump after 2 weeks when the dates show a 4 month time jump.
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