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Love Me Darkly
He’s hunting a killer. She’s hiding from the past. Their collision was inevitable—but surviving it might not be.
FBI profiler Mateo Garcia came to New Orleans chasing a ritualistic serial killer—the same one who left his wife dead and his world in ruins.
His search leads to Solstice, a seductive nightclub pulsing with secrets, lies, and occult whispers.
There, he finds Melody—a mysterious woman with eyes full of fire and a past she refuses to reveal. She’s everything he shouldn’t want: beautiful, dangerous, and bound to something darker than she admits. But when her secrets start to align with the killer’s path, Mateo is forced to make a choice…
Trust the woman who might be lying. Or lose the one lead that could stop a murderer.
Melody knows what men like Mateo are capable of. She’s seen the violence. Survived the betrayal. But when he touches her, it doesn’t feel like danger—it feels like surrender. Like salvation. Like a man unraveling for her in real time.
In a city where death wears many faces and desire can be a weapon, love might be the deadliest risk of all.
---
Case File Addendum – Reader Advisory
Contents include: graphic violence, trauma of both the body and the soul, sexual violence, and grief that doesn’t play fair. Expect organized crime and occult influence threaded through every page, with an FBI profiler who can’t decide if he’s chasing justice or his own obsession.
Filed under: dark romance • romantic suspense • psychological thriller
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Status: High heat, high danger
Proceed with caution, agents. The full dossier of tropes and triggers is classified in the book’s opening pages. Enter at your own risk.
FBI profiler Mateo Garcia came to New Orleans chasing a ritualistic serial killer—the same one who left his wife dead and his world in ruins.
His search leads to Solstice, a seductive nightclub pulsing with secrets, lies, and occult whispers.
There, he finds Melody—a mysterious woman with eyes full of fire and a past she refuses to reveal. She’s everything he shouldn’t want: beautiful, dangerous, and bound to something darker than she admits. But when her secrets start to align with the killer’s path, Mateo is forced to make a choice…
Trust the woman who might be lying. Or lose the one lead that could stop a murderer.
Melody knows what men like Mateo are capable of. She’s seen the violence. Survived the betrayal. But when he touches her, it doesn’t feel like danger—it feels like surrender. Like salvation. Like a man unraveling for her in real time.
In a city where death wears many faces and desire can be a weapon, love might be the deadliest risk of all.
---
Case File Addendum – Reader Advisory
Contents include: graphic violence, trauma of both the body and the soul, sexual violence, and grief that doesn’t play fair. Expect organized crime and occult influence threaded through every page, with an FBI profiler who can’t decide if he’s chasing justice or his own obsession.
Filed under: dark romance • romantic suspense • psychological thriller
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Status: High heat, high danger
Proceed with caution, agents. The full dossier of tropes and triggers is classified in the book’s opening pages. Enter at your own risk.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
21 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Vale
37 books575 followersVictoria Vale writes erotic romance that refuses to stay in its lane. She hops between history and suspense, blending danger with desire until the edges blur. Her stories are marked by bold heroines, irresistible heroes, and heat that never behaves the way it should. Love Me Darkly (2025) proves passion is always at its best when it misbehaves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
October 14, 2025
”I know you’ve been fighting your whole life, but you don’t have to fight tonight. Not with me. Let go.”
ok, so this started off good, i’m not usually a fan of fbi/investigation plot lines but i was interested in this one at first. i appreciated that the mmc Mateo was older and it followed mainly his pov for the majority of the book. the pacing was ok for the most part and i did want to know what was going on. then along the way, more and more things started to bother me though.. i’ll list them now.
1.) Mateo is head investigator on a case that he has direct connection to, which immediately makes no sense because that’s a conflict of interest? the way it’s explained away was also very convenient.
2.) there’s A LOT of time spent on Mateo’s grief over his wife’s death, and his daughters safety but at the same time he immediately latched onto Melody and would complain about how he felt guilt but it never came across that way through any of his actions.
3.) the romance was so painfully awkward. you couldn’t convince me that Mateo and Melody felt anything other than physical attraction.
4.) Melody’s background felt so random and i had no idea why she was even part of this book tbh.
5.) the antagonist was such a caricature, they didn’t feel intimidating at all and im confused as to whether it’s a cult or something supernatural happening? idk.
I think this will be a series and im assuming that’s why there weren’t any real answers given in this book. the way it ended didn’t give me any strong urge to continue, it just came across abrupt and thrown together.
➷ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-Op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
ok, so this started off good, i’m not usually a fan of fbi/investigation plot lines but i was interested in this one at first. i appreciated that the mmc Mateo was older and it followed mainly his pov for the majority of the book. the pacing was ok for the most part and i did want to know what was going on. then along the way, more and more things started to bother me though.. i’ll list them now.
1.) Mateo is head investigator on a case that he has direct connection to, which immediately makes no sense because that’s a conflict of interest? the way it’s explained away was also very convenient.
2.) there’s A LOT of time spent on Mateo’s grief over his wife’s death, and his daughters safety but at the same time he immediately latched onto Melody and would complain about how he felt guilt but it never came across that way through any of his actions.
3.) the romance was so painfully awkward. you couldn’t convince me that Mateo and Melody felt anything other than physical attraction.
4.) Melody’s background felt so random and i had no idea why she was even part of this book tbh.
5.) the antagonist was such a caricature, they didn’t feel intimidating at all and im confused as to whether it’s a cult or something supernatural happening? idk.
I think this will be a series and im assuming that’s why there weren’t any real answers given in this book. the way it ended didn’t give me any strong urge to continue, it just came across abrupt and thrown together.
➷ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Victory Editing Co-Op for the arc, all opinions are my own.
September 27, 2025
4.5 ⭐ COMING: 14th October 2025
Trigger Warnings:
⬩Murder
⬩Graphic violence (including torture and mutilation)
⬩Blood and gore
⬩Explicit sexual content
⬩Past rape/sexual assault
⬩Organised crime
⬩Occult vibes
⬩Human trafficking
⬩Death of a spouse
⬩Miscarriage/abortion
⬩Drug use
⬩Suicidal ideation
⬩Grief
Tropes
⬩FBI agent X secretive woman with a dark past
⬩Obsessive MMC
⬩Age gap
⬩Stalker
⬩Organised Crime
🔥 CRIMINAL MINDS BUT MAKE IT SPICY 🔥
"Every time I touch you, I tell myself it'll be the last time …. Then I see you again and forget why last time had to be the last"
When a man is equally obsessed with his career and a woman — a woman he probably should be avoiding at all costs — things are bound to get a little messy.
Let me just start off by saying that I devoured this book! I'm talking staying up late because I NEEDED to find out what was going to happen next despite having to wake up early the following morning kind of devoured. — And coming from someone who loves their sleep, this is the highest form of praise!
Whenever I start a new book, it usually takes me a while to get into the story. But this was not the case here. I felt that this story was fast-paced from the get-go. From the very first chapter, I was totally hooked!
I loved the balance of crime/thriller and romance throughout this book! It was clear that this wasn't simply another dark romance with the crime element haphazardly thrown in as an afterthought. It is evident that Victoria Vale has done her research and possesses significant knowledge of the story's themes, including the biological aspects of torture and mutilation, the effects of illegal substances, and the process of criminal investigation. This made for an immersive, gripping and thoroughly enjoyable read.
Vale also has a real flair for writing shock value thrillers. I found myself feeling repulsed at some of the gory scenes, and was suspicious of almost every character at one point or another, and truly had no idea which direction the story was going to go. 😂 The best way for a thriller to be, in my opinion.
This isn't my usual type of story, but boy oh boy am I glad I clicked on this book! If you're looking for something that's part of a wider series, and which expertly blends a psychological thriller with a dark, somewhat forbidden, romance with plenty of spice, then I definitely recommend this book.
I cannot wait to read the next installment! I need to know more about Melody, and I'm desperate to know what happens next.
Thank you NetGalley, Victoria Vale, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
❀ Tia ❀
Trigger Warnings:
⬩Murder
⬩Graphic violence (including torture and mutilation)
⬩Blood and gore
⬩Explicit sexual content
⬩Past rape/sexual assault
⬩Organised crime
⬩Occult vibes
⬩Human trafficking
⬩Death of a spouse
⬩Miscarriage/abortion
⬩Drug use
⬩Suicidal ideation
⬩Grief
Tropes
⬩FBI agent X secretive woman with a dark past
⬩Obsessive MMC
⬩Age gap
⬩Stalker
⬩Organised Crime
🔥 CRIMINAL MINDS BUT MAKE IT SPICY 🔥
"Every time I touch you, I tell myself it'll be the last time …. Then I see you again and forget why last time had to be the last"
When a man is equally obsessed with his career and a woman — a woman he probably should be avoiding at all costs — things are bound to get a little messy.
Let me just start off by saying that I devoured this book! I'm talking staying up late because I NEEDED to find out what was going to happen next despite having to wake up early the following morning kind of devoured. — And coming from someone who loves their sleep, this is the highest form of praise!
Whenever I start a new book, it usually takes me a while to get into the story. But this was not the case here. I felt that this story was fast-paced from the get-go. From the very first chapter, I was totally hooked!
I loved the balance of crime/thriller and romance throughout this book! It was clear that this wasn't simply another dark romance with the crime element haphazardly thrown in as an afterthought. It is evident that Victoria Vale has done her research and possesses significant knowledge of the story's themes, including the biological aspects of torture and mutilation, the effects of illegal substances, and the process of criminal investigation. This made for an immersive, gripping and thoroughly enjoyable read.
Vale also has a real flair for writing shock value thrillers. I found myself feeling repulsed at some of the gory scenes, and was suspicious of almost every character at one point or another, and truly had no idea which direction the story was going to go. 😂 The best way for a thriller to be, in my opinion.
This isn't my usual type of story, but boy oh boy am I glad I clicked on this book! If you're looking for something that's part of a wider series, and which expertly blends a psychological thriller with a dark, somewhat forbidden, romance with plenty of spice, then I definitely recommend this book.
I cannot wait to read the next installment! I need to know more about Melody, and I'm desperate to know what happens next.
Thank you NetGalley, Victoria Vale, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for gifting this eBook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
❀ Tia ❀
November 17, 2025
If criminal minds and dark romance had a baby, this would definitely be it.
I loved the chemistry, the slow burn and the spice 🌶️
I also loved the crime, the twisted psychologically unhinged minds, the investigating and the chase.
I didn’t know what’ to expect from this book but I loved it!
Thank you for the gifted copy!
Publishes : October 14th
I loved the chemistry, the slow burn and the spice 🌶️
I also loved the crime, the twisted psychologically unhinged minds, the investigating and the chase.
I didn’t know what’ to expect from this book but I loved it!
Thank you for the gifted copy!
Publishes : October 14th
September 6, 2025
I dont do reviews very often, im pretty bad at them. But I loved this book, its more crime driven and the romance hits mid book, a little later but the characters are fleshed out, there's some humor and lots of suspense. Definitely gives an NCIS/ criminal minds vibe with romance and good spice. The spice is appropriately placed and its not overwhelming. The characters have amazing chemistry and the last 5 chapters will have you questioning everything
September 20, 2025
Victoria Vale outdid herself with this psychological thriller that has so much suspense! Mateo is one of the detectives who will not give up until the serial killer is caught! I feel bad for him because he is victim of the killer. He murdered his wife!
Every page had me taking a breath anticipating what was going to happen! The characters are well developed and the narrative too. There are so many aspects to this storyline that I kept thinking and trying to figure out why. I’m looking forward to the next book.
Every page had me taking a breath anticipating what was going to happen! The characters are well developed and the narrative too. There are so many aspects to this storyline that I kept thinking and trying to figure out why. I’m looking forward to the next book.
September 23, 2025
thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read thija arc 😍🥰
Okay so, I went into this not realizing it was a duology with the second book coming out next year... And I'm so mad at myself for it 😭
I really liked this book. It did drag out at some parts and I felt like some of the book could have been done with less details, but I suppose in the end those details made the book better.
Gah, Mateo?! Don't even get me started. He's a big bad broody FBI agent who falls in love with a woman he meets on his case. And Melody? I NEED to know what the hell is going on with her and what her real story is because the glimpses I got were not enough! I loved how unusual and unconventional their love story was. Mateo needs to get himself together and work through his trauma of losing Mari for real though, it's seriously affecting his job. So I would love to see him maybe get some therapy or some type of help in the next book.
I don't even know how to properly write a review about this book because there were Soo many parts to it, but it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I could not put it down once I started it! I am very impatiently waiting for book 2 on NetGalley 😅
Okay so, I went into this not realizing it was a duology with the second book coming out next year... And I'm so mad at myself for it 😭
I really liked this book. It did drag out at some parts and I felt like some of the book could have been done with less details, but I suppose in the end those details made the book better.
Gah, Mateo?! Don't even get me started. He's a big bad broody FBI agent who falls in love with a woman he meets on his case. And Melody? I NEED to know what the hell is going on with her and what her real story is because the glimpses I got were not enough! I loved how unusual and unconventional their love story was. Mateo needs to get himself together and work through his trauma of losing Mari for real though, it's seriously affecting his job. So I would love to see him maybe get some therapy or some type of help in the next book.
I don't even know how to properly write a review about this book because there were Soo many parts to it, but it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I could not put it down once I started it! I am very impatiently waiting for book 2 on NetGalley 😅
October 11, 2025
˗ˏˋ 4 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
omg i love this sm, the plot was plotting so hard. and i was so invested in the story. i love mateo, my heart broke for him for what he had to go through. and mari *sobs* i also loved how melody is such a complicated character. everytime i feel like i know her, she reveals something else. also this girl literally deserves the world for what she had to go through. like both mateo and melody needs there HEA..
i loved the insane plot twists, it kept me on the edge of my seat. and also that epilogue with melody!?!!!! what the actual fuck was that.. i CANNOT wait for the next book
TLDR: literally criminal minds but a whole lotta romance! check tw too :))
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
omg i love this sm, the plot was plotting so hard. and i was so invested in the story. i love mateo, my heart broke for him for what he had to go through. and mari *sobs* i also loved how melody is such a complicated character. everytime i feel like i know her, she reveals something else. also this girl literally deserves the world for what she had to go through. like both mateo and melody needs there HEA..
i loved the insane plot twists, it kept me on the edge of my seat. and also that epilogue with melody!?!!!! what the actual fuck was that.. i CANNOT wait for the next book
TLDR: literally criminal minds but a whole lotta romance! check tw too :))
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2025
This book made me think of a dark, sexy, Cultish NCIS novel that had me up all night reading and soaking up each line until the very end. This psychological thriller will take you to the very edge and dangle you there. I am anxiously waiting for January to come so I can read the second book!
I want to thank NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
September 8, 2025
Anxiously awaiting the 2nd book and this one hasn’t even hit the shelves!! 😱 The character development and chemistry is spot on. It’s a slow burn, but when it gets spicy, hold onto your seats! 🌶️🌶️🌶️ I was hooked from the first page and stayed up entirely too late just to finish! The description and banter between characters drew me in. The twists and turns held me on the edge of my seat! Definitely gives Criminal Minds vibes! 😍
September 14, 2025
Love Me Darkly is an intoxicating blend of passion, danger, and perfectly executed tension. Victoria Vale has a way of pulling you into a story that feels both darkly seductive and emotionally gripping, and this book is no exception!!
The chemistry between the characters crackles from the very first encounter, simmering with both heat and intensity ❤️🔥 What really impressed me was how the author balances the darker, edgier elements with real emotional depth you don’t just feel the attraction, you feel the ache, the risk, and the vulnerability beneath it all..
The writing is lush, atmospheric, and absolutely impossible to put down. Every single chapter left me wanting more, and the pacing kept me hooked without ever rushing the story! It’s the kind of book that makes you forget about the world around you until you’ve devoured the very last page! I was sad after finishing it so quickly.
If you *love* your romance with shadows, spice, and that addictive “just one more chapter” pull you’ll enjoy Love Me Darkly. It is absolutely worth every single star.
The chemistry between the characters crackles from the very first encounter, simmering with both heat and intensity ❤️🔥 What really impressed me was how the author balances the darker, edgier elements with real emotional depth you don’t just feel the attraction, you feel the ache, the risk, and the vulnerability beneath it all..
The writing is lush, atmospheric, and absolutely impossible to put down. Every single chapter left me wanting more, and the pacing kept me hooked without ever rushing the story! It’s the kind of book that makes you forget about the world around you until you’ve devoured the very last page! I was sad after finishing it so quickly.
If you *love* your romance with shadows, spice, and that addictive “just one more chapter” pull you’ll enjoy Love Me Darkly. It is absolutely worth every single star.
September 10, 2025
I read this as an ARC and holy cow this book was an amazing mix of action and romance. I found myself so immersed in the story, I couldn't put it down. It was erotic, sexy, and dangerous. Just when you think you had it figured out Victoria turns you upside down. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would.
December 21, 2025
✨ Review: Love Me Darkly — Dark Desires in the Big Easy ✨
Y’all, I am officially breathless! 🎷irresistible atmosphere, high-stakes tension, and a hero who is literally unraveling? Yes, please! Love Me Darkly is a total fever dream set in the sultry, shadow-drenched streets of New Orleans. If you live for that "broken hero meets mysterious survivor" dynamic, this book is going to be your new obsession. The vibes are immaculate—think flickering candlelight, jazz notes in the humid air, and a seductive nightclub called Solstice that I desperately want to visit (even if it’s definitely dangerous). 🕯️🎭
Mateo Garcia is the definition of a tortured FMC’s dream. He’s an FBI profiler on a mission for vengeance, haunted by the ritualistic killer who took everything from him. He is intense, focused, and so deeply wounded, which makes his collision with Melody even more explosive! 🚔🥃 And Melody? Oh, she is such a queen. She’s guarded, fiery, and hiding a past that kept me turning pages well into the night. The chemistry when these two meet at Solstice is absolutely electric; it’s that "eyes meeting across a crowded room" energy that makes your heart skip a beat. 💃✨
The romance in this is so beautifully raw. Watching Mateo choose between his duty and his growing need for Melody was pure agony in the best way possible. When they finally give in, it doesn't just feel like heat—it feels like a total surrender for both of them. 🖤🔥 The mystery of the ritualistic killer kept me on the edge of my seat, weaving through the occult whispers of the city until I didn't know who to trust. It’s a dark, twisty, and deeply romantic ride that proves love really is the deadliest risk of all in a city where death wears many faces. 🔪🥀
Y’all, I am officially breathless! 🎷irresistible atmosphere, high-stakes tension, and a hero who is literally unraveling? Yes, please! Love Me Darkly is a total fever dream set in the sultry, shadow-drenched streets of New Orleans. If you live for that "broken hero meets mysterious survivor" dynamic, this book is going to be your new obsession. The vibes are immaculate—think flickering candlelight, jazz notes in the humid air, and a seductive nightclub called Solstice that I desperately want to visit (even if it’s definitely dangerous). 🕯️🎭
Mateo Garcia is the definition of a tortured FMC’s dream. He’s an FBI profiler on a mission for vengeance, haunted by the ritualistic killer who took everything from him. He is intense, focused, and so deeply wounded, which makes his collision with Melody even more explosive! 🚔🥃 And Melody? Oh, she is such a queen. She’s guarded, fiery, and hiding a past that kept me turning pages well into the night. The chemistry when these two meet at Solstice is absolutely electric; it’s that "eyes meeting across a crowded room" energy that makes your heart skip a beat. 💃✨
The romance in this is so beautifully raw. Watching Mateo choose between his duty and his growing need for Melody was pure agony in the best way possible. When they finally give in, it doesn't just feel like heat—it feels like a total surrender for both of them. 🖤🔥 The mystery of the ritualistic killer kept me on the edge of my seat, weaving through the occult whispers of the city until I didn't know who to trust. It’s a dark, twisty, and deeply romantic ride that proves love really is the deadliest risk of all in a city where death wears many faces. 🔪🥀
October 15, 2025
I loved the tension, the intrigue, and the darkness that covered every moment and scene as Mateo seeks justice. Melody is a beautiful mystery: her secrets are dark and painful, but the attraction between them is intense. Their scenes are exquisite and deeply moving until an omission destroys their burgeoning relationship.
Victoria Vale balanced a procedural drama and the personal lives of these characters with a deft hand. NOLA as the setting is perfect, Mateo’s team is incredibly talented, and the story is timely. The dialogue is genuine, powerful, and compelling: I love Mateo’s inner struggles and his dedication! The cliffhanger adds more mystery and I’m can’t wait for more answers!!
Victoria Vale balanced a procedural drama and the personal lives of these characters with a deft hand. NOLA as the setting is perfect, Mateo’s team is incredibly talented, and the story is timely. The dialogue is genuine, powerful, and compelling: I love Mateo’s inner struggles and his dedication! The cliffhanger adds more mystery and I’m can’t wait for more answers!!
October 29, 2025
Wow. I received this book as an arc and wasn’t disappointed. The hype was real. I kept seeing it compared as Criminal Minds meets The Mindf*ck Series. I haven’t read that series yet, but I love Criminal Minds. The plot of this book and the details were so good. I immediately loved Mateo. The way this book ended makes me not want more, but NEED more. The spice level was right up my alley. Check triggers because it is a bit dark for some. Overall 10/10 love it and would recommend to everyone.
October 14, 2025
Happy release day!!!
5 🌟
Holy cow..this book literally blew my mind. I’m so glad I got to read this arc copy!! The fact that I now have to wait until January for part 2 of Mateo and Melody’s story…you’re joking. I ATE this up! The twists…the suspense and mystery…the yearning omg Mateo is something else. I’m so hooked and in the best way I need more rn.
5 🌟
Holy cow..this book literally blew my mind. I’m so glad I got to read this arc copy!! The fact that I now have to wait until January for part 2 of Mateo and Melody’s story…you’re joking. I ATE this up! The twists…the suspense and mystery…the yearning omg Mateo is something else. I’m so hooked and in the best way I need more rn.
September 11, 2025
Criminal minds meets "darkish" romance? yes please. I loved this book so much. The plot twists at the end? The cliffhanger? Wow. I loved watching Mateo and Melody's relationship blossom. My heart physically hurt when reading about Melody's past. The Scotch scene? ATE THAT UP, my word. I am honored to have gotten to read this as an ARC. Once it publishes, I will be buying a physical copy and I cannot wait for the next one to come out!! A must read!!
Want to read
December 26, 2025⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love Me Darkly completely stole my heart! From the very first page, Victoria Vale had me completely wrapped up in a slow-burn romance that’s equal parts intense, steamy, and deeply emotional. The chemistry between the main characters is absolutely electric—they make your heart race, your cheeks flush, and your stomach flutter all at once.
I adored how the story balances passion with real emotional depth. The characters aren’t just romantic leads—they feel like people you could meet in real life, with quirks, fears, and past wounds that make their connection even more powerful. Watching them navigate their feelings, grow together, and fight for their love had me cheering and swooning simultaneously. 💖
The tension in this book is chef’s kiss—that delicious push-and-pull, the teasing glances, the stolen touches—it’s everything a romance reader dreams of. But it’s not just about the heat. The emotional stakes, the vulnerability, and the way the story makes you feel every heartbreak and every tender moment is what truly sets this book apart.
Victoria Vale’s writing is immersive and addictive. I found myself lost in the story, carried away by her gorgeous prose and the undeniable pull between the characters. Love Me Darkly isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience, one that will leave you grinning, sighing, and completely smitten.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s passionate, emotionally satisfying, and full of swoon-worthy moments, this book is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to see what Victoria Vale writes next! 🔥💞
Love Me Darkly completely stole my heart! From the very first page, Victoria Vale had me completely wrapped up in a slow-burn romance that’s equal parts intense, steamy, and deeply emotional. The chemistry between the main characters is absolutely electric—they make your heart race, your cheeks flush, and your stomach flutter all at once.
I adored how the story balances passion with real emotional depth. The characters aren’t just romantic leads—they feel like people you could meet in real life, with quirks, fears, and past wounds that make their connection even more powerful. Watching them navigate their feelings, grow together, and fight for their love had me cheering and swooning simultaneously. 💖
The tension in this book is chef’s kiss—that delicious push-and-pull, the teasing glances, the stolen touches—it’s everything a romance reader dreams of. But it’s not just about the heat. The emotional stakes, the vulnerability, and the way the story makes you feel every heartbreak and every tender moment is what truly sets this book apart.
Victoria Vale’s writing is immersive and addictive. I found myself lost in the story, carried away by her gorgeous prose and the undeniable pull between the characters. Love Me Darkly isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience, one that will leave you grinning, sighing, and completely smitten.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s passionate, emotionally satisfying, and full of swoon-worthy moments, this book is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to see what Victoria Vale writes next! 🔥💞
September 28, 2025
Oh, what a ride this has been. It felt like a Criminal Minds episode, with a healthy dose of spice (no one's complaining, duh), and a mix of The Originals (purely because of the New Orleans setting, but it makes the connection for me).
What we're getting here are two damaged characters, brought together by a sheer coincidence of being in the same place at the same time. A grieving FBI agent, leading a team to catch the serial killer who also killed his wife, and a mysterious waitress, running from her previous life.
To say Mateo and Melody have undeniable chemistry from the second they meet would be an understatement of the year. The way in which Victoria treats the encounters of these two is perfect, you can just feel the sparks illuminating off the pages. After their first scenes, I was sure this is the best we can get, but oh boy, was I mistaken. It just gets better and better, even though the criminal portion of the story gets in the way a lot.
And on the criminal part - this just keeps twisting and twisting. When you think you already cracked the case together with the FBI squad, you will be thrown another bite of evidence and the whole picture will make a turn you won't expect. It really feels like watching the best criminal shows out there.
Slightly disappointed the story doesn't conclude, and we're getting a 2nd book, but at the same time -we're getting a 2nd book! Can't wait to finally figure out who's the perp, and how Mateo & Melody get there.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
What we're getting here are two damaged characters, brought together by a sheer coincidence of being in the same place at the same time. A grieving FBI agent, leading a team to catch the serial killer who also killed his wife, and a mysterious waitress, running from her previous life.
To say Mateo and Melody have undeniable chemistry from the second they meet would be an understatement of the year. The way in which Victoria treats the encounters of these two is perfect, you can just feel the sparks illuminating off the pages. After their first scenes, I was sure this is the best we can get, but oh boy, was I mistaken. It just gets better and better, even though the criminal portion of the story gets in the way a lot.
And on the criminal part - this just keeps twisting and twisting. When you think you already cracked the case together with the FBI squad, you will be thrown another bite of evidence and the whole picture will make a turn you won't expect. It really feels like watching the best criminal shows out there.
Slightly disappointed the story doesn't conclude, and we're getting a 2nd book, but at the same time -we're getting a 2nd book! Can't wait to finally figure out who's the perp, and how Mateo & Melody get there.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
September 28, 2025
My thoughts are entirely my own and not purchased in any way. I was provided an E-Arc through NetGalley.
Okay, this book had me in a literal chokehold. Dark romance with a HEAVY dose of crime.
I was so invested in this book and the plot from page one. As someone that has spent nearly 30 years watching and listening to true crime content, this book felt like watching a documentary.
The way the crime just continues to unfold and this seedy world of truly horrible organized crime is mind blowing. I am still floored by that ending and I need book two pronto.
The crime plot, the forbidden lovers aspect, THE TWISTS, and the way this comes together. No notes.
Also, sweet bb Mateo in his morally light grey ways. 🩶
This book has some pretty heavy plot points and triggers, such as human trafficking, organized crime, grief, graphic crime scene descriptions, and SA.
I think there’s a certain levity that was achieved because many characters have become a found family and they lean on each other.
Thank you for the E-ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
Okay, this book had me in a literal chokehold. Dark romance with a HEAVY dose of crime.
I was so invested in this book and the plot from page one. As someone that has spent nearly 30 years watching and listening to true crime content, this book felt like watching a documentary.
The way the crime just continues to unfold and this seedy world of truly horrible organized crime is mind blowing. I am still floored by that ending and I need book two pronto.
The crime plot, the forbidden lovers aspect, THE TWISTS, and the way this comes together. No notes.
Also, sweet bb Mateo in his morally light grey ways. 🩶
This book has some pretty heavy plot points and triggers, such as human trafficking, organized crime, grief, graphic crime scene descriptions, and SA.
I think there’s a certain levity that was achieved because many characters have become a found family and they lean on each other.
Thank you for the E-ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
October 10, 2025
Victoria Vale is my guilty pleasure, so I was so thrilled with a chance to read an ARC of her new novel. It delivered on all points - a protective obsessive MMC, former military, FBI agent breaking all rules falling for the cast down by life, twisted and sweet FMC. And of course this book is so incredibly sensual and spicy!
Mateo is such a perfect mix of tortured, touch-starved, guided by his own compass hero with a touch of chivalry for Melody, who is surviving in this world by hiding her very essence, yet she cannot help but give all of herself to Mateo. The book is the first in a duology. It does not end in quite a cliffhanger but definitely leaves you wanting a second one immediately.
The supporting characters are so well done, they jump off the page along with MCs. I can’t wait to read the conclusion of this story!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this wonderful ARC!
Mateo is such a perfect mix of tortured, touch-starved, guided by his own compass hero with a touch of chivalry for Melody, who is surviving in this world by hiding her very essence, yet she cannot help but give all of herself to Mateo. The book is the first in a duology. It does not end in quite a cliffhanger but definitely leaves you wanting a second one immediately.
The supporting characters are so well done, they jump off the page along with MCs. I can’t wait to read the conclusion of this story!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this wonderful ARC!
September 17, 2025
Not my usual jam, but I enjoy Victoria Vale’s writing so much I decided to give it a shot. This book is more Criminal Minds than romance, with some New Orleans Deja Vu vibe thrown in for spice.
We have an FBI agent chasing a serial killer—and it’s definitely personal. The chase leads him and his team to Nola, where he meets Melody, a club waitress with a mysterious past. Both characters are layered and complex, and kept me hooked.
I won’t spoil any more. This book has all the elements: gruesome murders, a mystery cult, and even a little Nola mysticism. Unfortunately, it’s book one, and while not exactly a cliffhanger, the ending does leave everything up in the air. The book is less spicy than usual for Victoria Vale, but that’s probably because she’s spending so much page time weaving a suspenseful tale. Not spice-free, for sure, but that’s not really the point of this one. Looking forward to the next book, I hope it’s not too far away!
We have an FBI agent chasing a serial killer—and it’s definitely personal. The chase leads him and his team to Nola, where he meets Melody, a club waitress with a mysterious past. Both characters are layered and complex, and kept me hooked.
I won’t spoil any more. This book has all the elements: gruesome murders, a mystery cult, and even a little Nola mysticism. Unfortunately, it’s book one, and while not exactly a cliffhanger, the ending does leave everything up in the air. The book is less spicy than usual for Victoria Vale, but that’s probably because she’s spending so much page time weaving a suspenseful tale. Not spice-free, for sure, but that’s not really the point of this one. Looking forward to the next book, I hope it’s not too far away!
September 12, 2025
I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to read this book as an ARC. I absolutely loved "Love Me Darkly"!
"Love Me Darkly" is a lot of action and suspense. The characters will pull you into their story and pull at your heartstrings and leave you wanting more.
"Love Me Darkly" has a little bit of everything! Drama, suspense, and mix it with a little bit of spice! I found myself rooting for Mateo and Melody and also a little broken-hearted for Mateo and his past as well as his current and future situations
I'm really trying very hard not to give away any spoilers! If you like things like Criminal Minds, you will absolutely love this book.
My Favorite quote from the book is:
"Still, if a bitch gotta lurk in the digital underworld, she might as well slay some demons while she's in there."
Thank you Victoria Vale for allowing me to read and review your book. It was an honor.
"Love Me Darkly" is a lot of action and suspense. The characters will pull you into their story and pull at your heartstrings and leave you wanting more.
"Love Me Darkly" has a little bit of everything! Drama, suspense, and mix it with a little bit of spice! I found myself rooting for Mateo and Melody and also a little broken-hearted for Mateo and his past as well as his current and future situations
I'm really trying very hard not to give away any spoilers! If you like things like Criminal Minds, you will absolutely love this book.
My Favorite quote from the book is:
"Still, if a bitch gotta lurk in the digital underworld, she might as well slay some demons while she's in there."
Thank you Victoria Vale for allowing me to read and review your book. It was an honor.
October 12, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
At the beginning of the book, the plot and the mystery was so interesting to me but when they introduced the love interest and how the relationship started developing I just lost interest. For me, everything was so insta-lovey and so superficial because they didn't know anything about each other. and it shows at the end of the book. The only thing that kept me reading was the plot and mystery, but I still don't think that I will continue this duology. I really wanted to like this book because it looked so interesting, but it kind of disappointed me.
At the beginning of the book, the plot and the mystery was so interesting to me but when they introduced the love interest and how the relationship started developing I just lost interest. For me, everything was so insta-lovey and so superficial because they didn't know anything about each other. and it shows at the end of the book. The only thing that kept me reading was the plot and mystery, but I still don't think that I will continue this duology. I really wanted to like this book because it looked so interesting, but it kind of disappointed me.
October 12, 2025
DNF at 55%. This was not for me at all. The suspense and mystery were the driving force for a while but they weren’t enough to get me thru. I couldn’t get past the fact that the MMC was sleeping with an abundance of random women within a year of his wife’s brutal and violent murder. He kept saying he felt so guilty….did u really? Because you kept doing it. So gross.
Also, the plot was way too similar to an exact episode/season of the show Criminal Minds where a profiler’s lady was murdered and he went after said bad guy who was specifically taunting him.
Also, the plot was way too similar to an exact episode/season of the show Criminal Minds where a profiler’s lady was murdered and he went after said bad guy who was specifically taunting him.
October 3, 2025
I enjoyed this twisty suspenseful crime drama/romance. I don’t know if it was just me but the mention of UNSUB 1837483847 time grated on my nerves a bit. But that’s my only complaint. I would recommend. 3.75 stars rounded up. Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
September 17, 2025
Deliciously dark. I don't love organized crime-focused dark romance, it feels predictable, money saves the day, the characters are more shallow than a puddle of dew.
Love Me Darkly kept me invested. It didn't feel predictable, the pain of the characters came through in a meaningful way. The spice was fantastic and also meaningful, that is, it wasn't page after page of spice. It was done tastefully. Highly recommend for suspense, spice, and sleuthing 🔎
Love Me Darkly kept me invested. It didn't feel predictable, the pain of the characters came through in a meaningful way. The spice was fantastic and also meaningful, that is, it wasn't page after page of spice. It was done tastefully. Highly recommend for suspense, spice, and sleuthing 🔎
October 15, 2025
Victoria Vale delivers a tense and thrilling psychological story packed with suspense. Mateo, a determined detective haunted by personal loss, refuses to stop until the serial killer is caught. The plot is fast-paced, emotional, and full of surprises. Strong characters and sharp writing keep you hooked from start to finish. I’m excited to see what comes next in the series!
September 16, 2025
Just wow! A truly love a good thriller and this book exceeded any expectations I had. A Criminal Minds dark romance that was so beautifully written, has got me craving more. The tight storyline, the suspense and the love story was absolutely on point. I highly recommend this book to fans of the Mindf*ck series because in my opinion it is right up there with the jaw dropping twists a thrills. I am impatiently awaiting the next book now……..
October 15, 2025
Incredible book with criminal minds and dark romance! I love that this book had 🌶️! When I started this read I wasn’t sure what it would consist of but it blew me away! So if you love spice and dark romance this is a must read!
September 15, 2025
Ooof that ending! I want book 2 now, please?! I don't want to give any spoilers so I'll just say that if you enjoy Criminal Minds and erotic romance books - you may just enjoy this one.
I am very grateful to have received this ARC from the author. I would highly recommend this book to those who enjoy dark romances.
I am very grateful to have received this ARC from the author. I would highly recommend this book to those who enjoy dark romances.
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