The Dark in Her Veins

by M.K. Lobb

From critically acclaimed, UK bestselling author M.K. Lobb comes a noir romantic fantasy set in a world in which sin is a fatal disease, and the rich hire the poor to carry out their basest instincts—until the forbidden romance between a sinner and a mysterious figure threatens to destroy everything.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Adult, Dark Romance, Fantasy Romance, Young Adult

336 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication August 25, 2026

About the author

M. K. Lobb is a fantasy writer with a love of all things dark— be it literature, humour, or general aesthetic. She grew up in small-town Canada and now lives by the lake with her partner and their cats. When not reading or writing, she can be found at the gym or contemplating the harsh realities of existence.

Reviews

[M.K.]

Braving this site to make an update now that ARCs are going out: Please be aware that there are numerous content warnings for this book, such as descriptions of murder, religious cults (and implied abuse associated with that), abusive parents, knife play, power play/BDSM dynamics, and general relentless violence. I wouldn’t say it’s super intense, but it’s definitely dark, so YMMV! If I missed anything you think I should’ve included, please let me know through my website form. AND YES THERE IS A SEQUEL so consider this your cliffhanger warning!! Thanks for being here xx

[jenny reads a lot · Rating 4 out of 5]

I binged this book in a single sitting.

It is dark and sexy and the tension had me sweating!

The world & magic is interesting and well developed. While not a completely novel concept - I still thought the author put a unique spin on the sin/corrupt religious institutions situation.

The MMC definitely gives vampire vibes, but instead of blood he feeds on sins. 10/10 no notes on that disastrously sexy morally black mess of an mmc.

The fmc is just as messy, with lots of trauma, and just as sexy, again 10/10 no notes. love her.

I had a really good time reading this one.

Whats to love…
- everyone is bisexual & morally black & messy
- religious cults
- corrupt religious institution as a form of government
- vampire vibes, but also not vampires
- dark, sexy, spicy
- grade A tension and feral f-ing

What might not work for some…
- well obviously dont read this if youre not into dark romance. check your content warnings
- I did want the paint to move along a bit faster towards the mid-end but that could have been a me issue.

4.25⭐️| IG | TikTok |

Thank you Sourcebooks for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.

[Bookishness]

~Pre-read~ ARC copy, dark romance, forbidden romance, say no more! this one has my name on it... lol

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

comment ça je dois attendre le tome 2 là omg Slade YOU'RE MY NEW MAN

[Yennefer]

Everyone being the villain and Sleep Token’s Chokehold as the theme?

Yeah, sign me the fuck up for this.

[Amanda Blanche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this e-ARC of this title releasing in August 2026.

This far exceeded my expectations, and if I didn’t have work and other adulting - I could have read it in one sitting. This is a darker gritty fantasy/dystopian story that has themes and topics of religion and the groups within it. Also some TWs for some content so be sure to look at those before reading.

In this world, Sin is deadly. As in, those who sin start to develop a rot that will in time be their demise. So to avoid that rot, the rich and powerful will hire Sinners to commit their crimes and take on the rot for them. Talin is a sinner to one of the most important people in their society - the prophet. The biggest religious figurehead in their society, but also secretly the most devious and controlling. Having taken on Talin after she lost everything and everyone, she is indebted to him. She hates him almost as much as she relies on him. So when he sends her to the dark side of town to gather information - she goes. Only to meet the much whispered about, mysterious Warden. The warden is known as the opposition to prophet. Encouraging sin and crime, shunning their religious beliefs. But he also gives Talin another choice - to betray the prophet and scheme against him and in exchange she will be free. But is Talin only exchanging one cage for another. And with her blood rot rapidly worsening, she has little time left - for someone so close to death, all she wants is to live, but how far will she go to stay alive.

A lot of great banter, spice, plot twists and double crosses. Written very well. Does end in a cliffhanger - so looking forward to a sequel!

[Bazia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I mean… girl, the concept is freaking amazing❤️‍🔥
beginning feels like a slay-born queen Celaena dropped into a dark urban fantasy world with strong Bryce vibes, but make it actually DARK
no parties, no glitter, no happy distractions

and then… somewhere along the way, that potential just doesn’t fully deliver. the world itself isn’t explored nearly as much as I hoped, which is a shame, because the idea behind it is genuinely interesting
the concept of sins manifesting like a visible illness? it’s intriguing me enough that I could overlook certain elements (like the BDSM dynamics or the age gap between the main characters🙅🏼‍♀️)

but tell me WHY is FMC always so annoyingly young?😩
her behavior and decisions often feel more like an impulsive teenager than someone we’re supposed to believe became a soulless ghost-killer in just three years
I just don’t buy it. do you?

in my opinion, the author spends too much time on unnecessary or slightly cringe moments (like drawn-out everyday scenes or repeatedly emphasizing that the MMC is ready for literally every possible “front”)

somewhere in the middle of the book, I realized I was getting lost in conversations that didn’t add much and actual plot started to feel barely there.

my rating is 2.75 ⭐️ (just because I love the concept!)

I received an ARC via NetGalley, many thanks for the opportunity! All opinions are my own💝

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

recieved an ARC of this from netgalley (sourcebooks)

I love love loved this book and cannot wait for the next one. The premise was amazing, but that CLIFFHANGER🥲

[Grace -thewritebooks]

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an eARC in exchange for an honest review

literally DEVOURED this!! Something about the set up of two mcs having to journey together to work on an evil plan AND THEY HATE EACH OTHER give me a ten book series right now. I read that this was going to be a cliffhanger and did in fact ignore all the warnings, so will be wiling away the hours until we get a book 2 because Lobb really said religious trauma for EVERYONE. Also just know the fanart for this will be divine. enjoyed everything about it <3

[Stephanie Chiocchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Sourcebooks, and M.K. Lobb for this eARC!

In a world where sinning is writing your own death sentence, it’s meant literally and our FMC, Talin is no stranger to sinning.
I was hooked immediately with this unique plot and world. The world building and images I was able to create in my head made this book so immersive. We have religious trauma, cults, basically mini Satans, and morally grey everyone. The “Then” chapters sprinkled throughout were a great flashback as to learning why Talin is the way she is and does the things she does.
No one trusts anyone and the betrayal and plot twists were a given. Was some of it predictable? Yes but it was still so very worth it. But of course, the way the story unfolds and through Talin’s inner monologue you start to have hope and positive feelings at certain possibilities. Like a found family trope that never quite made it or that real feelings exist.
The problem with getting an ARC is I need to wait even longer for book two but also looking forward to this reread one day.
Please be advised that this book is DARK, especially religious trauma.

[bryanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

woah! me giving a review? more shocking than you think! but arc review incoming! so i don’t really write reviews on here and when i do it’s always something witty and sarcastic even when i love the book. but holy shit this book was so good! i want to thank sourcebooks and C2E2 for making this the book club book this year! and for letting me be lucky enough to get an arc of the book and being able to read this! the way that religious guilt and trauma are in this book is done in a way that feels original and not a repeat of any other book. the fact that sin slowly eats away and kills someone blows my mind. talin is so well written and depicts someone wanting to live despite the cultic and religious trauma she’s been. that she needs to sin to live yet sinning is killing her. the romance aspect of the book is perfect! it’s not an in your face type of romance that takes away from the plot. i for once feel like it adds to the plot and keeps the readers captivated! can’t wait to discuss this book further with other readers at c2e2! talin is my favorite little sinner.

[Ashley Francisco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will never get over the fact that I received one of thirty copies of this bound manuscript. So beyond cool. Thank you again, @mk_lobb and @sourcebookscasa ❤️

I absolutely loved this book, and finished it so fast. I simply couldn’t put it down. This dark romantasy was so unique, but also easy to follow. Imagine a world where sinning causes a terminal illness called blood rot. The elite wouldn’t chance death, so they hire sinners to do their bidding.

Talin is a sinner, forced between the two most powerful men, to essentially save herself. Her background was tragic, and I loved the flashbacks to her family and the cult that they belonged to. The slow burn romance/spice in this one was so on point, but it didn’t overtake the story at all, which was so plot driven. Don’t worry, you’ll still be obsessed with Slade, though. 🔥

I feel so lucky to have read this one so early, BUT the cliffhanger has me wanting book two like right now. I’m already planning a reread in the future, because I loved this so much!

Romantasy fans, put The Dark in Her Veins on your calendar, because you will absolutely want to read this! Just a PSA- there are tons of trigger warnings, so be sure to check those out!

[Mandy]

Nope. Not feeling this one. Already feeling formulaic 🥴

[Alissa]

I will post my review closer to the release date of 25th of August but I definitely enjoyed this 😁

[Sunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review: The Dark in Her Veins by M.K. Lobb ✨

Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

⚠️ Content note: This book includes themes such as murder, religious cults (with implied abuse), abusive parents, knife play, power dynamics/BDSM undertones, and overall violence. It’s not overly graphic, but it is slightly dark.

If you love:

🖤 Morally grey characters
🖤 High tension and layered dialogue
🖤 Religion-based worldbuilding
🖤 Slow-burn, magnetic chemistry and dynamics
🖤 Constantly questioning everyone’s motives

…this will absolutely deliver. It gets under your skin and STAYS THERE.

______
Honestly, what was I even doing with my life before this book??? I finished it at 3am… and then just lay there staring at the wall.

And before you go into this not knowing what I didn’t know: this is the FIRST book in a series. There WILL be more!!! And thank god for that, considering how this ends (I NEED THE NEXT BOOK MORE THAN AIR).

I don’t even know where to begin—other than to say: I was completely, utterly addicted!!!

From the very first chapters, this story hooks you. The pacing is genuinely one of its strongest elements—tight, intentional, and impossible to put down. It’s the kind of book where you tell yourself “just one more chapter...” and suddenly it’s 2am.

And the concept is incredible!

The entire framework around sin, religion, and power is so original and so sharply executed. It’s deeply embedded into the characters, the systems, and the emotional core of the story. The way religion is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING. It feels disturbingly plausible and realistic, and that’s what makes it hit so hard.

What stood out to me most is how the book constantly keeps you on edge. I was second-guessing everyone. Every interaction feels loaded, every conversation has layers, and the tension is sustained so well throughout. It honestly feels like an absolute masterclass in how to balance high-stakes intrigue with deeply personal, messy relationships.

A huge part of that comes from the dynamic between Talin, Gabriel, and the Warden. The way their stories and motivations are woven together is SO well done. It’s rare to find a trio where both the chemistry and the conflict feel this balanced, but it was PERFECTLY done here.

I CANNOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK ENOUGH!! Let me dig into why.

✨ The plot ✨
In a world where sin isn’t just a concept but a source of power, Talin Keller serves the Prophet—carrying out brutal acts in his name, each one literally etched into her skin as dark marks of what she’s done. Raised within his system but never truly believing in it, she has spent her life surviving it.

Now, she wants out.

But leaving isn’t simple—not when everything she is has been shaped by the very system she’s trying to escape, and not when the Prophet still holds power over her.

As she begins to push toward freedom, Talin finds herself caught between survival, control, and the dangerous pull of the compelling Warden who feeds on sin—drawn to her for everything she refuses to confess. Their interactions are charged from the very beginning, a tense push and pull of control, resistance, and undeniable chemistry.

And the closer she gets to freedom, the more dangerous everything becomes.

✨ Talin Keller (FMC) ✨
I LOVED her.

She is unapologetically morally grey—sharp, calculating, and willing to make difficult choices, even when they cost her something. Literally! There’s no attempt to soften her, no need to justify her actions in a way that makes them “acceptable”—and that’s exactly what makes her so compelling to me.

And I loved seeing her in action. Her fight scenes are SO good!! The way she moves, the way she thinks, the way she calculates in the middle of chaos—she is smart and controlled. She doesn’t just survive those moments, she dominates them. You can feel how capable she is, how dangerous she is, and how much of that has been shaped by everything she’s been forced to become.

She holds her own in every single situation, and it makes her even more satisfying to read.

But what truly elevates her character is HOW we come to understand her.

The short flashback chapters throughout the book were BRILLIANT. They’re quick, but they carry so much weight. Piece by piece, they build this incredibly clear picture of her upbringing—how she was raised, what she was exposed to, and how that environment shaped her into who she is now.

And the indoctrination… oh my god.

It’s not loud or obvious at first, more subtle, creeping, NORMALISED. You see how it embeds itself into everyday life, how it becomes truth simply because it’s repeated often enough, enforced strongly enough. The way religion and belief is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING, especially because you can see exactly how and why it works.

But what makes Talin more fascinating is that she never fully belongs to it.

She exists within that system, she operates inside it, she even benefits from it in some ways—but there’s always that distance and awareness, that sense that she’s slightly outside of it all, observing as much as she’s participating. And that tension (between who she is, what she’s done, and what she believes) is SO well done.

She is both a product of that world and a subtle resistance to it.

✨ The Warden (MMC) ✨
The Warden—a feared, almost mythical figure who rules the Trench, a lawless haven for sinners—is everything I want in a morally grey MMC.

He is controlled, dangerous, unreadable, and devastatingly compelling!!!

Every single scene he’s in feels charged. There’s this constant sense that he’s holding something back, that there’s always more beneath the surface, and that restraint makes him even MORE compelling.

It’s in the way he watches, the way he speaks, the way he DOES or DOESN’T react. And god, it makes him ten times hotter. The intensity about him pulls you in, you can feel it in his presence in every scene, even when he’s barely doing anything. It’s all tension, all control, all CONTAINED energy… and it’s SO effective.

But what makes him stand out SO MUCH is his connection to sin.

The fact that he feeds on people’s sins, on their confessions, is SUCH a genius concept—and the way it’s used in the story adds this entire extra layer to his character. It’s not just power, it’s HUNGER, it’s NEED, it’s VISCERAL.

And then you put him next to Talin… the sinner of all sinners!

A girl whose body is marked by everything she’s done, by every killing carried out in the Prophet’s name. Someone who is carrying so much, who has so much to confess—and SHE REFUSES TO GIVE IT TO HIM. Did I mention I LOVE her???

He is DRAWN to her because of her sins. Not only is he intrigued, he is pulled toward her in this way that feels inevitable (only thing I can compare it to is how vampires need blood to survive or they will grow hungry and weak… and I LOVE this dynamic!!! The Warden basically needs confessions like vampires need blood).

That tension between WANTING and WITHHOLDING??? Absolutely unreal. Talin represents everything he feeds on, everything he NEEDS—and yet she denies him access to it.

So yes, his dynamic with her is INSANE.

Because it’s not just regular attraction between the main leads, it’s tension layered on tension. Power vs resistance, hunger vs control, confession vs silence. Every interaction between them feels like a negotiation, like a test or something that could tip at any moment.

Their chemistry is absolutely MAGNETIC. It’s sooo sharp, complicated, and dangerous. There’s curiosity, but also restraint, challenge, and something that feels constantly on the verge of snapping.

You can FEEL the push and pull in every conversation. The way they circle each other, the way neither of them fully gives in... and when they do? GOD. It’s not romantic tension, it’s psychological, emotional, almost predatory in a way that fits the world PERFECTLY.

... and don’t even get me started on the BDSM vibes… I shouldn’t say too much, but oh my god. ALSO… did I mention knife play? No? Oops. Must’ve been a typo (SCREAMING, CRYING, THROWING UP. JUST TRUST ME ON THIS).

✨ Gabriel Markovich (The Prophet) ✨
I can’t say too much without spoiling things, but Gabriel—the Prophet Talin works for, and is desperately trying to break free from—is… SUCH a standout.

He is one of those characters that is subtly, deeply terrifying—not because he’s loud or overtly cruel, but because of how controlled he is. Everything about him feels deliberate and measured. He rarely raises his voice or loses composure, and somehow that makes him infinitely more unsettling.

There’s this calm, almost gentle way he speaks that makes everything he says feel… reasonable. And that’s what makes him so dangerous.

He doesn’t command in obvious ways—he guides and reframes. He takes something horrific and presents it as necessary, as justified, as RIGHT. The way he talks about sin, about duty, about purpose… it’s so carefully constructed that you can see EXACTLY how people begin to follow him as The Prophet.

You can see it so clearly in his interactions with Talin. He positions himself as someone who understands her, who sees her, who is giving her meaning, all while subtly, constantly shaping her into exactly what he wants her to be, including, of course, recruiting her when she was young.

He is SUCH an enthralling character who had me looking forward to every single scene with him.

And I have to say this, even though I doubt many people reading this will have read it, but if you’ve read The Lymond Chronicles… to describe just HOW compelling Gabriel is and why you should read this, all I’ll need to say is he reminded me so much of Graham Reid Malett (also Gabriel), and I was LOSING MY MIND over it. The same chilling presence, the same kind of religious manipulation, the same way of speaking. It’s actually insane how similar the vibe is in certain moments, it had me genuinely screaming at how unsettling it felt.

(And if you DO know the Lymond Chronicles… you have AMAZING taste). Anyway, moving on.

✨ The dialogue ✨
The dialogue in this book is INSANE too. Not just with The Warden (PLEASE, all scenes with him gave me heart palpitations), but especially Gabriel. Every conversation he is in feels like walking into a trap. He never says more than he needs to, but everything he does say carries weight.

There’s always something underneath it. A second meaning, a shift in power happening mid-conversation that you almost don’t catch until it’s already happened.

There are moments where he says something that sounds reassuring, and yet it leaves you feeling uneasy... Like something just moved into place and you don’t fully understand how.

That’s how well it’s written!

Some of the most tense scenes in this book are just conversations with him, genuinely. And yet the stakes feel so high because you can feel how much is happening beneath all that.

I genuinely found myself holding my breath during most of his scenes…!!! But honestly, I felt this way with The Warden too, my god...

✨ A 5-star read that lingers, haunts, and CONSUMES ✨
This book is dark, intense, and SO intelligently crafted. It’s absolutely addictive and deeply unsettling in the BEST way.

The themes of religion, control, and indoctrination are explored with such nuance and care that they feel disturbingly REAL. You don’t just see how this world works, you understand WHY it works, how people are shaped by it, how belief is built, reinforced, and weaponised.

And that’s what makes it hit so hard!! Because nothing in this book feels simple.

Every character is layered, every interaction has weight, every conversation feels like it’s doing more than it seems. There’s always something you’re trying to grasp, even as the story pulls you forward.

And it NEVER lets up.

The tension, the pacing, the emotional stakes, it all works together so seamlessly that you don’t even realise how deeply you’re invested until you physically cannot stop reading.

There’s so much subtle foreshadowing and so many small hints layered throughout, I loved noticing them, and it was so satisfying when I realised I’d been right, lol.

Did I mention I can’t wait for the next one???

[Connor · Rating 1 out of 5]

If wasted potential was a book this is it. The idea is so fascinating about sin, leaving its mark on you and how that affects society but the thing is we never see the society. We don’t see the city.

I don’t know what the city looks like the time period and the setting of the city is so inconsistent there’s cars but the trains don’t have lights. They refer to T-shirts, the guns have magazines, and they’re not revolvers like they would’ve been in a Victorian era, they have phones and also know the dangers of secondhand smoke?

I think about halfway through the book, The city gets described as smog choked, and that’s the most it’s ever described even though half the book takes place in this city. And don’t even get me started on the characters they’re flat wooden and so dumb. The plot twist is so obvious and the character is completely oblivious to it even though it’s literally right in her face after she learns about the existence of these other beings. The relationship feels so forced. And the one spicy scene in this book was probably the worst spicy scene I have ever read in my entire life.

Oh and it’s the biggest she’s ever seen cause of course it is 🙄

One star. Really the only reason I finished this is because I liked using my new fountain pen right in the margins and it was really fun to underline and write out all the plot and inconsistencies and things about the world that just don’t make any sense.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC in hand and I already know this is going to be my kind of unwell 🥵

Noir romantasy + moral rot + a city that monetizes violence is exactly the sort of premise that gets me feral on principle. The vibe reads like:
wet cobblestones,
gloved hands,
corrupted holiness, and
A romance that is absolutely not safe for anyone’s nervous system.

I haven’t finished yet, but the concept alone is doing damage in the best way. I’ll be back with a real review once I’ve been properly RUINED 😉

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Little lamb" vs "little sinner" - pick your poison (nickname)

The Dark in Her Veins is the first book in an adult dark romantasy duology set in a world where sin is a physical corruption known as the Bloodrot. In hindsight, I somehow didn't realize it was so focused on romance, and if I'd known, I might not have picked it up, so I encourage you to take my review with a grain of salt. As many other reviews have mentioned, I wanted a lot more of the worldbuilding and plot and a lot less romance. The idea of sin physically killing people intrigues me -especially with the exploration of religious trauma - but the actual impact of the Bloodrot wasn't explored nearly as much as I wanted it to be. I think book two might investigate it more, but that was the part of the book that interested me the most.

Talin Keller is a sinner by hire. Namely, she's employed by the Prophet, ending the lives of his enemies. Her newest - and possibly last - assignment is to trick the mysterious "Warden" into trusting her, but it seems there's more to the Prophet and the Warden than they let on, and Talin will be the one suffering for it if she cannot complete her mission. Despite the high-stakes mission set up in the first few chapters, the majority of the book is spent prepping for said mission that ends far too quickly, in my opinion. In fact, I couldn't tell you much of what happened in the middle of the book at all because it feels like it was a lot of just Talin and Slade (the Warden) arguing/flirting. I was expecting the "dark" aspect to come into play with the fantasy genre or the plot, but I think it mostly applies to the romance, which is another reason I don't think I was a huge fan. I didn't think the plot twists were particularly shocking, though I am intrigued by the direction the ending is taking. I'm not sure whether I will continue the series, if only because I'm not fully invested in the characters.

I think I could've tolerated the plot more if I cared more about the characters. I did like Talin, the protagonist. She's a character who actually is as morally gray as she claims, and I enjoyed the slow reveal of her backstories. My major complaint was more about her type of character than Talin herself; I don't typically enjoy when an FMC is introduced to the MMC's "gang of friends" and there's always a girl who likes her and a boy who judges her (this could also be because I just started watching Shadowhunters, so I got a double dose of that trope). I did not like Slade (the love interest), and I think it was because I didn't like his dynamics with Talin. A lot of his lines read as kind of cringey to me, but again, this isn't the kind of romance I typically read. I wanted to see more of Slade's friends, Ceri and Emeric. They're the main reason I would continue the series, but I didn't get enough time to truly grow to appreciate them. I don't think any of the characters are meant to be 100% likable, but I do wish I were able to root for them more.

The Dark in Her Veins is the first book in an adult dark romantasy duology set in a world where sin is a sickness.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!

3.25/5

[Rani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of immersing myself in a captivating romantic fantasy novel by M.K. Lobb. Set in a world where sin has fatal consequences for those who commit it, this narrative explores the dynamics between the wealthy, who employ the less fortunate to carry out their nefarious tasks. This marks my first experience with Lobb's writing, and I approached the story with no prior knowledge. I was fortunate to obtain an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) from NetGalley, and I extend my gratitude to both them and Lobb for providing this opportunity for review.

The narrative centers on themes of religion and cults, offering a unique perspective. Lobb's modern interpretation enhances accessibility for readers while infusing the story with a gothic atmosphere. This captivating blend is sure to attract enthusiasts of dark romance, compelling them to engage with the book. From the very first chapter, the narrative provokes a plethora of questions, compelling readers to ponder and seek answers almost immediately. It serves as an excellent introduction, effectively capturing the reader's interest. The action and suspense presented early on create a sense of urgency, leaving the audience eager to uncover the direction of the story.
Lobb introduces us to Talin, alongside Gabriel and several other characters. Talin stands out as a formidable assassin, driven by her desire to earn Gabriel's approval, her superior. As the story unfolds, we encounter additional characters, including Slade, who introduces an intriguing layer of tension among the protagonists. The chemistry between Talin and Slade is unmistakable from their very first encounter. While some readers may find the more provocative scenes challenging, enthusiasts of dark romance are likely to appreciate them more. The content is not overly excessive; rather, it strikes a perfect balance that entices the reader to want more.

The plot deepens over time as the narrative unfolds, allowing readers to gain a more profound understanding of each character over time. Numerous secrets are unveiled, yet many remain to be discovered.

The book evoked a wide range of emotions as I read, encompassing feelings of happiness, sadness, and even moments of intensity. Lobb masterfully engages readers, allowing them to connect with the characters' experiences. This is particularly evident in Talin's reflections on her past, her family, and, most significantly, her sister.

The cliffhanger at the conclusion has left me eager for more, as I am left with numerous unanswered questions. For the moment, it appears we must engage in a waiting game.
On a personal note, I must admit that epigraphs are not my preferred literary device. Although I understand their purpose in establishing context and enhancing the chapter's setting, I find them somewhat disengaging. Nevertheless, this is a minor issue in the grand scheme of an otherwise engaging narrative.

I would like to express my profound gratitude to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this incredible opportunity. I am pleased to convey that I am a devoted fan of this novel and will enthusiastically recommend it to my friends and family so they can purchase their own copies upon its official release.

[Lexy Foghture · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC (advanced reader copy) from NetGalley, and I’m honestly so glad I did because this book completely pulled me in.

This story is dark, unsettling, and almost morbid in the way it explores sin, control, and morality and I loved every second of it. A world where sin is treated like a disease and the powerful outsource their sins to the vulnerable… yeah, that already tells you everything about the tone.

It did take me a few days to finish, but that’s entirely on me being busy, because realistically? This is a one-sitting read. Once you’re in, you’re in. The atmosphere, the pacing, the constant sense of mistrust… it keeps you hooked in a very intense way.

The dynamic between Talin and Slade?
Bruh…

There’s this constant push and pull, where you don’t fully trust either of them. It gives that “who is actually playing who?” energy the entire time.

And the spice? Surprisingly well done.

It doesn’t overpower the plot. It fits the tone of the story, and it actually adds to the dynamic instead of distracting from it.

🌶️ Spice rating: 4.25 / 5

Also… that ending?
That cliffhanger should be illegal.

I am already waiting for book two because there is no way I’m being left like that.


🖤 GENRE / VIBE

Dark fantasy • gothic romance • romantic suspense • religious dystopia • morally grey romance • psychological tension • dark academia undertones


✨ TROPES

forbidden romance • enemies to lovers • sinner x enforcer • morally grey characters • power imbalance • secrets & lies • betrayal • religious control • corrupt system • cat-and-mouse dynamic • who did this to you • touch her and ☠️ • forced proximity • slow-burn tension (with spikes)


🖤 MICROTROPES

“you don’t belong to yourself” • obsession masked as duty • dangerous protector • sinner vs saint dynamic • confession as intimacy • emotional manipulation • trust no one • “I should hate you but—” • ownership undertones • restraint tension • gaze tracking • power play dialogue • tension before touch


🌶️ KINKS / INTIMACY

BDSM dynamics • power play • control • dominance • restraint • knife play implications • pain/pleasure overlap • dark intimacy • psychological tension-driven spice


⚠️ TRIGGER WARNINGS

violence • murder • religious cult themes • abuse (including parental) • coercion/power imbalance • manipulation • psychological distress • blood imagery • dark themes throughout • non-consensual undertones (contextual)


🔥

This book is not for everyone, but if you like your romance dark, tense, morally complicated, and a little bit dangerous…

You will eat this up.

And suffer.
Because that ending? Yeah. No peace here.

[cici cast · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine a world where sin is a death sentence, the wealthy pay others to bleed for them, and falling in love might be the most dangerous crime of all. That’s The Dark in Her Veins by M.K. Lobb.

This dark romantic fantasy instantly pulled me in with its ruthless, corrupt world where sin manifests as a fatal disease called Bloodrot. The rich outsource their sins to “sinners,” slowly poisoning them from the inside out, while maintaining their own spotless reputations. It’s bleak, unsettling, and disturbingly believable.

Our FMC, Talin Keller, is 22, lethal, and already dying. A skilled shooter and assassin working under the Prophet, she navigates a city steeped in religious influence, cult-like devotion, secrets, and political corruption. The worldbuilding is meticulous and haunting, from the Prophet’s grip on the city to the diabolists, powerful beings who feed on confessions and are both cursed and revered.

Then there’s the Warden. Platinum blond, dangerous, overprotective, and absolutely a problem. Their connection is instant, forbidden, and electric. The tension between them crackles off the page hot, teasing, and emotionally loaded. When he calls her “little sinner” I was officially done 🥵 They’re drawn to each other in a way that feels inevitable and dangerous.

I loved the noir, cinematic feel of this story. Every scene played out like a dark film in my head. The action is relentless, the tension razor-sharp, and the plot twists were truly diabolical. As Talin begins uncovering the truth about the Prophet and the system controlling her life, all while Bloodrot eats her alive, the stakes become painfully personal.

Talin carries deep religious and family trauma, and I felt for her constantly. There were moments I just wanted to reach through the page and give her a hug. Her fight for freedom, truth, and autonomy made this story hit emotionally as hard as it did plot-wise.

Dark, smart, sexy, and layered with commentary on power, devotion, and control, this book completely had me in its grip. I enjoyed it so much and cannot wait for readers to experience this world.

Endlessly grateful to M.K. Lobb and the publisher for trusting me with an early ARC.
August 25, 2026 cannot come fast enough.

[J. Kaufmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

he Dark in Her Veins introduces a world where shadows aren’t just an absence of light, but a source of terrifying, inherited power. M.K. Lobb crafts a narrative that feels both atmospheric and high-stakes, grounding the high-concept fantasy in a gritty reality.

The Lore and World-Building
The standout feature of this novel is undoubtedly the background lore. Lobb has meticulously constructed a magic system that feels ancient and weighty. The exploration of "the dark" and the religious societal structures built around those who possess it—and those who fear it—provides a rich, well-thought-out foundation. It isn’t just window dressing; the history of this world actively drives the tension of the current plot.

Plot and Pacing
The storyline is extremely interesting, weaving together political intrigue with personal vendettas. As the first installment of a series, the book does an excellent job of expanding the scope of the conflict with every chapter. However, readers should be prepared for a heart-pounding cliffhanger. Because it is the start of a saga, many of the most explosive questions are left unanswered, leaving the door wide open for the sequel.

The Central Romance
While the chemistry between the main leads is palpable, their dynamic provides much of the story's friction. Despite their longevity and the high stakes of their situation, the communication between the love interests often feels immature.

The "secret-keeping" trope is in full effect here. For characters dealing with the weight of immortality, their tendency to withhold vital information can be a point of frustration. Their inability to be transparent causes several strategic plans to implode, leading to avoidable disasters. It raises an interesting point for the future of the series: the story’s tension would likely be even more compelling if these powerful figures chose to collaborate and face the world as a united front, rather than letting internal silence be their downfall.

Overall I really enjoyed this book and was dark, immersive start to a promising series. If you enjoy deep world-building and complex magic, you will find plenty to love—just be ready for a bit of romantic angst and a cliffhanger that will leave you reaching for the next book.

[Cee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley, this is my honest opinion.

This book left me feeling conflicted. I liked the premise -- the idea that Sin could manifest as a physical aliment and corrupt a person, and the idea of an oppressively theocratic state that farms out tasks that require sinning to the more desperate members of society was compelling -- but something didn’t quite land for me. At times it feels a little overwritten, especially with the worldbuilding. At other times it feels like things are going too fast. However, I imagine that your mileage may vary depending on whether you’re in it for the premise or the romance aspect.

The characters were a bit of a mixed bag -- I liked them but Talin (the FMC) fell into the dark romance bad girl with nothing to lose category hard, and Slade (the MMC) the brooding, misunderstood bad guy. However a lot of the secondary characters felt a little needless to me. (Perhaps that’ll have a use in the second part?)

The plot itself is interesting, filled with betrayal and mistrust but at times the pacing really makes it hard to feel too engaged. It’s a fairly straightforward story but at times it drags and other times it moves too quickly to really get an idea of what Talin’s reaction is to things.

The ‘romance’ was another point of conflict. I wouldn’t call it slowburn, and the speed they go from not wanting each other to BDSM (depending on your definition of BDSM -- for me this was just violence in a sex scene, which isn’t a complaint, I didn’t mind it but, again, your mileage may vary) is jarring. They spend the whole time annoying through flirting but there’s little in the way of build-up to show them growing past their dislike. I would have liked to have seen more, I guess?

I’m also not a fan of severe cliffhanger endings, which did affects my rating.

That said, part of me is curious about what will happen, so there’s a chance I’ll still pick up the next book. Ultimately, it kept me reading.

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received from Sourcebooks at C2E2

I am generally not a fan of dark romance, but this book was compelling enough to make me entertained for the duration of the story. The 'dark' aspect of the romance was well-done, and it fit well within the characters' personalities.

The premise of the book is interesting, where the manifestation of sin becomes visible on people's bodies. This leads to the concept of hired sinners for the rich, to both keep themselves 'pure' and to avoid the eventual madness that comes with sinning too much. A great premise, but it falls apart with a bit of thought, because according to the quoted passages from the "Holy Book" sprinkled throughout, there are other Major Sins (recognizable from Christianity) that are impossible for the average person not to commit. Shouldn't everyone, especially the older adults, at least have some bloodrot visible on their bodies? The book is written like this is not the case and that hired sinners are special, instead focusing on the killing/violence sin, but per their own definition of Major Sins, more people should be more bruised.

The setting had a lot of potential; I loved the idea of an implied modern world that has regressed technologically due to the influence of the militarized theocracy. In the case of this story, it leans towards having a 1920s aesthetic with jazz and speakeasies for about a quarter of the book. Unfortunately, the setting quickly becomes irrelevant to the plot and we don't see much of this at all after the introduction. I wish that the world had been explored a bit more.

The book nicely captures attention from the start and has an interesting FMC whose backstory makes the reader want to see how she will react to the plot. There's a very small cast of characters in the book, which helps keep things moving without dragging out the length. Unfortunately, there are still some slow points that don't add any thing to the plot or characterization of the MCs.

Still a good read overall, and worth reading if the concept intrigues you.

[Rach · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, thank you so much to NetGalley & Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC! I have to pinch myself every time I get to read and review a book early and it is one of the joys of my life! x

The Dark in Her Veins took me by surprise! I was expected by the cover a very classic dark romance and what was met with was this atmospheric, religiously dark romance book filled with obsession, sin, trauma, and the exploration of living in a world where sin is a disease. Talin is employed by the prophet as a sinner for hire, people like her exist so the religious don’t have to succumb to disease from sinning. Talin comes from a background of cult trauma and she uses her job as a murder for fire to escape from her traumatic past. That is, until she ends up in the company of the warden, Slade.

Slade is automatically on the book boyfriend list. He’s dark, brooding, morally grey, tattooed, and doesn’t trust anyone. From the second we met him on page I knew I was going to like him. The relationship between Talin and Slade is very much instalust which I have to say is not always my favorite. They do definitely have an enemies to lovers vibe which I did enjoy but the chemistry between them was instant and it wasn’t a will they won’t they, more so a waiting game of when.

The spice in this wasn’t much but what was there was great. It enhanced the story and it also was testament to what they have both been through. I also loved the side characters, Ceri and Emeric. I only wish that we had more of them in the story and got to see all their relationships evolve a bit more.

The last fifty pages of the book were so good. The stakes were high, the betrayal was painful, the reveals were shocking. This does end on a cliffhanger and it was brutal! I can’t wait for book two so I can see what happens and how these relationships evolve. Overall, a fun read that explored some dark themes, I’m hopeful the second installment will be even better.

[cottageannotations · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars 

I am SO pleasantly surprised with The Dark in Her Veins. The premise is unlike any I have read before. It is set in a world in which sin is a fatal disease, and the rich hire the poor to carry out their basest instincts. Please check your CW and TW before reading, but I think this is one of those books you go in blind for. 

I have not read any other books by M.K. Lobb, but I was shocked by how fantastic her 320 pages were. Most fantasy books are 500+ pages, and this is the rare instance where I wish we had those extra 200 pages.

I appreciate a fast-paced plot in smaller books. The only downside is that it does not leave much room for extra depth of characters or plots being more fleshed out, but if this is going to become a series, then I completely understand! (I'm just greedy and always want to read more of a book I loved)

The Characters were true to themselves. This is a deadly world with DARK protagonists. It is dark, it is gruelling, and as we only read from Talin's perspective, we are only seeing the narrative through her lens, which was great; I just wish we had more descriptions of the world. I liked the "Then" Chapters as they gave a perspective into why Talin is the way she is and what she has had to endure, and why certain allegiances may be a struggle for her. After all, her life is on the line. 

I also appreciated how The Warden was written; he is SINFUL, and nothing will change that. He is twisted, but aren't we all, just a little? We get a small glimpse into his life, which does leave me wanting to know more. Are Talin and The Warden cut from the same cloth? Are they more alike than they think? There has been no concrete evidence to support another book, but I am begging for another book as this is the perfect set-up for a great series! 

I want to thank Sourcebooks Casablanca and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this arc ahead of release. 

[Samsam · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a read that keeps you constantly checking over your shoulder and second-guessing every character’s motive, The Dark in Her Veins hits the mark. This story is a masterclass in tension, blending high-stakes intrigue with complex, messy relationships that feel incredibly earned.

The heart of this book for me was the intricate web between Tarin, Gabriel, and Slade. It’s rare to find a trio where the chemistry and the conflict feel so balanced. The way the narrative threads their histories together kept me guessing—every time I thought I had a handle on where their loyalties lay, the story threw a curveball that shifted the entire foundation.
Then, there’s the relationship between Tarin and Slade. It’s magnetic, fraught with tension, and arguably one of the most compelling parts of the journey. Their dynamic adds a layer of emotional weight that makes the darker elements of the plot feel even more urgent.

The pacing is relentless. The author does a fantastic job of breadcrumbing information just enough to keep you hooked without giving away the game too early. You aren’t just reading the story; you’re trying to solve it alongside Tarin.

My only real "gripe"? The ending. It’s one of those finales that leaves you staring at the wall, processing everything that just happened while simultaneously wishing there were another hundred pages. It’s a bittersweet feeling—loving a world so much that you aren't ready to leave it, yet feeling that ache of a story that ended just a bit too soon.
Final Thought: A dark, twisty, and emotionally resonant ride. If you love stories where the line between hero and villain is blurred and the romance is as sharp as a blade, this is a must-read. I'm just crossing my fingers that we get to see more of these characters soon!

[Nimra Iqbal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Sourebooks Casablanca for the gifted eARC! I feel like this book was way darker than I expected… in a good way.

The whole concept is actually insane—in this world, sin literally turns into a disease that slowly kills you, and the rich basically pay the poor to do their dirty work for them. It’s very “morally messed up society,” and I ate that up.

The main character, Talin, is not a good person… but also not someone you can hate. She’s doing what she has to survive, and you can feel that desperation the entire time. I love characters like that where you’re like “this is questionable” but you still get it.

And the romance?? Very much tension > softness. The Warden is exactly the type of morally gray, slightly unhinged love interest that just works in a story like this. It’s not fluffy at all—it’s more like… dangerous and obsessive in a way that fits the world.

The vibe is super gritty and heavy, and there’s always this feeling that something is about to go wrong. It’s not nonstop action, but I was still hooked because the stakes feel really real—like everyone is one bad decision away from dying.

I will say, it leans more slow-burn with the romance and plot, so if you’re expecting fast-paced the whole time, just know that going in.

But overall, if you like dark romantasy, morally gray characters, and stories where survival comes at a cost… this is 100% your type of book.

If you enjoy contemporary romance with clever twists, strong friendships, and characters who feel alive, this is definitely a book to check out. It’s playful, thoughtful, and surprisingly heartfelt, and I found myself thinking about the story long after finishing.

[Lex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely devoured this! The Dark in Her Veins was everything I want in a read—feral, unhinged, and impossible to put down with morally grey characters everywhere and low trust.
The pacing is so good. Every twist had me spiralling and I genuinely could not stop, who needs sleep when I can stay up into the early hours finishing this!

The storyline, the tension, the chaos… it just kept building and I was so here for it. This is 100% my kind of dark, addictive writing. Best read i've had so far this year! (and definitely helped while in a reading slump) Had me hooked from start to finish, not putting it down until I had finished reading!

The story follows Talin, who is caught in a brutal, oppressive system shaped by religion, power, and control—where faith is weaponised and survival often means becoming something you barely recognise. As secrets unravel and the stakes climb higher, she’s forced to navigate betrayal, shifting loyalties, and the weight of her own past and trauma. The tension that comes from that constant pressure - Incredible. I was hooked on every second of it.

I loved the main characters—messy, complicated, a little unhinged in the best way. Talin especially with her choices, her chaos, and that edge of darkness in her was just so good. The depth, the anger, and the defiance with my kind of spice and charged tension there and power play dynamics (where other romantasys struggle to hit that mark for me, love a forbidden romance)

Absolutely inject this into my veins! I am very ready for book 2. Thanks so much for the e-arc Netgalley and M.K Lobb for writing it! An instant auto buy author for sure now.
Ready for a re-read in the future.

[Katie Pearce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Sourcebooks for the gifted e-arc.

I have many things I want to say — mostly expletives — because of that ending. Yes. I’m furry eyeballing you MK Lobb.

I’m sitting here thinking: how am I supposed review this? How am I supposed to put into words the twisty, sexy, and yet double-crossing characters that are Slade and Talin? I literally trusted nobody from front to back and yet I still ended up feeling betrayed — which, I clearly blame MK Lobb for.

I always enjoy books based on religion — especially ones like this. We have those that keep their hands clean by paying those to sin for them, as if that is somehow acceptable. The sinners veins turn black until the blood rot takes over and they go mad before death. All the while, those who claim to be holy hide behind their paid sinners and suffer not at all.

Talin is much further along than she should be at her age— and she’s also someone who wants nothing more than to live. Regardless of the cost. It is no wonder she attracts the Warden — Slade if you will. The push and pull between the two is positively electric and my thought process the entire time was: this is like fifty shades of vampires (except substitute Diabolist’s and they don’t feed on blood, but confessions. Regardless the vibe is there.)

Sexy. Dark. May I say sinful? The Dark in Her Veins gives exactly what I hoped for.

Look, pick up this book. It’s excellent. And even though you’re left on a terrible cliff —it’s still worth the climb. Now give me book two because this is cruel. Thank you.