Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
He wanted to take a stand. But he didn’t have to stand alone.

Julian Heroux doesn’t want to be a paladin anymore. The guild used to be a force for good, but now they’re turning on their own members and hunting down those who disagree with them. To take a stand and free himself from the rising tyranny within the ranks, he turns in his guild ring and quits. But they won’t let him go without retribution.

Valac hasn’t touched mortal soil in centuries. When duty finally calls him back, his mission is find out what happened to Lilith, and choose a suitable candidate to replace her. The last thing he expects is to be captivated by a stubborn former paladin with an unbreakable moral compass. Julian is the first human who’s never treated him like a monster. He should focus on his mission, but Julian Heroux proves to be an irresistible distraction.

Valac recognizes something in Julian, and he won’t let the guild destroy it. He’ll have to make new alliances to protect what’s his, and Julian will have to reckon with enemies that he once thought of as family.

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 18, 2026

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

KT Yarrow

14 books40 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
41 (51%)
4 stars
33 (41%)
3 stars
6 (7%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for ʟᴀᴜʀᴀ.
171 reviews
June 10, 2026
I genuinely didn't expect this to turn out that good.

Julian basically carried this book. His journey of trying to be a mere civilian was filled with so much despair, gosh I really rooted for him to finally get the happiness he deserved. At least Valac was every bit as attentive as I hoped for, especially when he made sure to use those shadows to their (almost) full potential 😛 Still, I have to admit this demon was my least favorite. Plus, no one messes with my baby Talon and gets away with it.

Safe to say this story felt refreshing, and even after the midpoint I wasn't overwhelmed by the overarching plotline. My only issue - surprisingly - is that smut could've used a bit more variety. I think the author has forgotten how hot it can be without going all in 🤧


Umm, since his love interest was revealed, I'm scared for Nicolas' book. Is it too late to dip out? (I will absolutely NOT dip out)
Profile Image for Alex's Books and Brews.
151 reviews15 followers
March 22, 2026
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
ℝ𝕒𝕜𝕚𝕤𝕙
𝕂𝕋 𝕐𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕠𝕨
Dark Delights Book Six

𝕆𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕒𝕝𝕝 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℙ𝕝𝕠𝕥 📚📚📚📚
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖 🌶🌶🌶

I’m really enjoying this series overall—the overarching storyline is compelling, and it’s what keeps me coming back. That said, Rakish didn’t quite hit the same way as the previous books for me.

Julian is easy to like. He very quickly accepts his fate with Valac, and he definitely gives off “nice guy” energy throughout. His departure from the Guild—and the way they terrorise him—was a strong point in the story. It really deepened my dislike of the Guild and added some emotional weight to his choices.

And Valac? Absolute highlight. Shadow daddy energy fully delivered—hands down my favourite demon in the crew so far. His presence, his protectiveness, the way he views Julian… it all worked for me.
But as much as I enjoyed them individually, their relationship didn’t quite land as strongly as I’d hoped. The chemistry felt a little muted compared to other couples in the series. The spice was still good, but emotionally, it didn’t feel as developed or impactful.
Overall, this book felt more like a bridge—filling in gaps and moving the larger plot forward—rather than a standout instalment. The romance almost felt like an afterthought at times, which is a shame given how much potential Julian and Valac had.
Still, I’m invested in the series and excited to see where it goes next.
Profile Image for Tris.
298 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 5, 2026
This book was sent to me as an ARC and this is my honest review of the book.

I devoured this book in one sitting. I can’t believe I’m saying this again - but this is my favourite book in the series (the next book sounds even better!!)

I loved loved LOVED that “Rakish” is so different and follows a different journey compared to the previous books. In here we saw a different point of view, via Julian, how things may work out if you voluntarily choose to leave the Paladins rather than be forced out with a demon as a fall back plan which made the book so interesting for me.

I really enjoyed seeing how Julian works his way and transitions from being a Paladin to being a lay citizen. The struggles he faced like his employment options plus the way he needs to work out how to live on his own since he previously was provided for by the paladins.

I found Julian’s and Valac’s meet cute really engaging and their relationship quite sweet. Whilst the story itself kept me interested I still wish there was just a few more pages (well a few more chapters) of emotional tension between Valac and Julian.

Overall this was an awesome read. As always KT Yarrow’s writing style is truly amazing and makes reading her books genuinely enjoyable.
54 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 13, 2026
Hi, me again, here to say "Yay this is the best one of the series" just like I said for book 2, and book 3, and book 4, and book 5 lol. It's been true every time, they just get better and better.

*Spoilers inside*

Okay first and most importantly - SHADOW DADDY! WE GOT OURSELVES A SHADOW DADDY!

*cough* sorry, got a lil excited. Anyways...

This book introduced a shiny new species (type? breed?) of demon called a Behemoth. Valac doesn't pop in on Earth much, not in the last couple millenia at least, but he was ordered to check in on the drama unfolding around In Extremis and of course met *his* paladin and the Sentinels in the process.

Julian wanted to leave the Paladin guild because it's become pure toxicity and abuse. He was only after a clean break - retirement - no demon hangouts and no joining the "traitors". He was just gonna be a nobody and live his life. Unfortunately the Paladin guild didn't like him defecting and he ends up shoved in with the Sentinels anyway.

I love the relationship Valac and Julian develop, and the ongoing brotherhood the traitors have created at their skating rink. The ending is great, I look forward to seeing the other newly introduced demon type - the Sin Eater - find his human in the next book.
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,512 reviews44 followers
February 22, 2026
The punishment of leaving the guild

I absolutely loved that this story was so different. Julian decided he didn't like what was happening with the Paladin's anymore so he decided the best action would be to leave. This however, did not go like he expected.

I really felt bad for Julian. All the things he had to endure from the people that had been his friends and family was so awful. Talk about getting beaten down by life. I'm so glad he had Rakish keeping an eye on him otherwise his story would have ended terribly.

I love each new demon we meet. We finally got a Shadow Daddy demon and I am absolutely here for it. His sneaky ways are so hot. Of course this one also introduces us briefly to our next demon who I can't wait to get to know. This one seems impossible but Ira knows.

Rakish and Julian definitely had the slowest build up of all the Paladins but part of that was a matter of location. Julian really never intended to break his promises but was given no choice. These two were so fun together. The push and pull between what he wanted and what is "wrong" was interesting to watch unfold.

That bonus epilogue was absolute perfection and honestly better set up for the next book. I've loved thus series and can't wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Jessie (thatchickwithabook).
1,204 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 11, 2026
Hands down the best in the series so far. It’s much more introspective and less action-heavy than the previous books, which I thought was exactly what this needed considering it introduces a new demon and the Paladin MMC willingly retires from the Guild. Steps are taken towards what needs to happen in the coming war and it has me so amped up for the next book. Meeting the demon MMC at the end of this book and finding out his paladin match has me frothing at the mouth waiting to read it.

But back to Julian and Valac - they are perfect for each other. Dare I say it, but I think Valac is the most romantic of all the demons. Perhaps it’s because he’s been in Hell since the Roman Empire, but he’s almost got this boyish quality to him (even though he’s a behemoth) that’s so endearing. Plus, his shadows make for some excellent smutty scenes. I say this every time I review a book in this series, but it seriously gets better every book. I don’t know how, it shouldn’t be possible, but Yarrow is a genius. This is my all time favourite MM series.

Thank you KT Yarrow for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
875 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 7, 2026
Julian and Valac were a brilliant addition to this series. I loved their instant connection but also how quietly protective Valac was, keeping watch over Julian throughout. I really felt that I went on Julian's journey with him, through all the low points and loneliness to the highs of being with Valac and joining the Sentinels. The characters were well-developed and, as with the rest of the series, the world building is great. I enjoyed seeing even more glimpses of what the future holds for these guys and there were a few twists towards the end that I didn't expect. I also like that Julian went about leaving the Guild in a different way to the other paladins before him because it definitely showed different reactions and kept me hooked. Overall, a wonderful HEA for the pair but I can't wait to dive into book 7 because the wider plot is still very much ongoing. For me, this is an author and series that I don't even need to read the blurb for, I just know I'm going to love it! It has to be 5 stars!

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for SNik.
836 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 14, 2026
Sixth in series (Dark Delights), best if read in order due to overarching storyline. Paranormal. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.

Julian is a loyal paladin but as he sees the Guild changing he decides to quit and strike out on his own. A chance meeting with the behemoth Valac has Valac keeping an eye on Julian and when there is trouble he is right by his human’s side.

I’m still absolutely enjoying this series, each demon/paladin couple is fantastic, and the cinnamon roll demons that have no hesitation when pledging their eternal commitment are swoon. Both Julian and Valac are such likable characters, Julian with his strong sense of right and Valac with his fish out of water but nobody better mess with me vibes. The times when Julian is in danger were heartwrenching, but as he gets over the betrayal by the guild Valac is there for him to lean on in every way Julian needs. I do wish we got more time with Julian and Valac getting to know each other, but I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I can’t wait for more from this series. 4.5 rounded up
Profile Image for Marty Hamrick.
616 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2026
This is an excellent, well-written addition to the Dark Delights series from KT Yarrow. While I did receive an ARC of Rakish for review, I have actually read the other books in the series within the last 3-4 weeks (which was why I was excited to read the ARC of Rakish), and I think that the books have just gotten better as the series progresses. Despite the excellent world building and supernatural elements to the entire thing, there was an entertaining level of realism to the story as Julian adjusted to civilian life and figured out how to live on his own. The relationship with Valac was also well-balanced and engaging. I think because I read the books all in a short span of time, I found it all very easy to see the evolution of how all the characters have made their breaks with the guild and how their ideals changed and became more aligned with real life and their own personalities which the author did with great aplomb. Definitely a recommended read for me, but also a recommended series as well.
Profile Image for Brit ✨.
137 reviews7 followers
February 18, 2026
Omg I am having a hard time deciding who is my favorite, Shad and Isaac or Valac and Julian! Rakish was so good. I loved that Julian’s story was a little different than the other humans. Obviously for both of them, it’s pretty insta lust vibes but also insta love even if they fight against it. Unlike some of the other humans, Julian doesn’t put up much of a fight but Julian’s circumstances make it hard for him to even want to (not that he really did).

I loved Valac and how protective he is, not that the others aren’t but maybe it is because of how much Julian needs that, that makes it different. I really can’t say more without spoiling the story but this book is a turning point to the overall plot. And I am here for it!! Go read this series asap!!

I am so intrigued by Ashmedai and the fact that he ends up with Nicolas??? May cannot come soon enough!
Profile Image for NightOwlz.
61 reviews
February 21, 2026
Julian’s departure from the guild is a bit different from what the other former paladins did. He tried to leave in a legitimate way, but Sloan wasn’t about to just stand by and let it slide. The guild is now more corrupt than ever, and the punishments for anything considered even slightly out of line are extreme.

Julian has a rough start after leaving, but in steps Valac, who is introduced as a new and exceptionally powerful demon. I loved the contrast in his brutal strength but utter softness when it came to Julian. The slow build of trust between the two that leads to some amazing spice was perfect! This may just be my favorite of the series so far.

Previous couples and characters are present throughout, and I loved seeing the interactions between the growing number of members in the Sentinels. The next pairing has me more excited than ever for the next book!
Profile Image for Sandra Sanches.
768 reviews22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 9, 2026
The corruption in the guild is worse than ever,Commander Sloan turned to be an unhinged dictator ,delivering hard punishments for the slightest infractions.
Seeing this Julian lost his faith and wants out but the more radical paladins turn his life a living hell.
Valac a high demon,3rd to Lucifer arrives on Earth to investigate Lilith's demise and mets Julian...
The 6th installement of this series and only got better.
The author masterfully keeps the reader in a full engagement with a perfect blend of sweet romance,high stakes,a rich and imaginative overarching plot and hot spice with a touch of blasphemy.
A special note for Valac,he has some powers that he uses in a very smexy way.(Just a hint,not spoiling the fun.)
Profile Image for Stace.
29 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 4, 2026
*Mild spoilers ahead*



My ARC hit my inbox and I finished it in one sitting, I was hooked. This series just gets better and better. I wondered if we were going to meet a behemoth when they were mentioned previously and he didn't disappoint. I absolutely loved Valac, he was the perfect protector for poor Julian. Julian goes through so much in this book and I cried with him a few times. This book is definitely a roller coaster of emotions, happy, sad and at times raging. I can not wait to see Sloan to get what's coming to him, it's going to be very satisfying.
Profile Image for Julianne  Darlen.
201 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2026
Debo decir que me incomodó DEMASIADO la elección de nombre para la pareja de Julián, sinceramente he leído la serie porque la trama está increíble y me está encantando pero, definitivamente a pesar que a nivel trama este creo es el que más me gustó… si no fuera por la trama no lo hubiera terminado, se es algo más a nivel creencias personales, pero la elección del nombre me fue demasiado incomoda muy muy incomoda, admito que incluso las escenas spicy no las pude disfrutar leyendo el nombre me sentí incomoda, peor pues es algo personal
Profile Image for Danielle Nielson, Book Therapist .
367 reviews11 followers
June 18, 2026
Broken Book Therapist Reviews

We are supposed to have free will when it comes to career and religion and life right? The option to choose to live life on our terms? To not be harmed for knowing what is the right thing for us? This book looks at what happens when career and religion combine and become a cult-like entity... do we stay for the good ones, the parts we still want to believe in, or do we leave it for our sanity? How do we cope when we see just how evil the place we once felt safe in has become? The grief is heavy... but found family is beautiful.
Profile Image for RK Hops.
63 reviews
February 21, 2026
I honestly didn't think I could like any couple more than Shad and Issac, but I guess this book proved me wrong. I thoroughly enjoyed Julian and Valak's interactions.

I find that I'm enjoying the plot and am quite curious as to how it will play out. It continues to speculate many things that I myself question as someone who was raised in a religious household. I'm excited to see where the series will go.

This will be a new comfort read for sure, makes me wish it was an audiobook.
Profile Image for Blanca.
89 reviews
April 12, 2026
Dictators Suck

After a power struggle in the Paladin Guild of LA sucks all the camaraderie out of it, Julian feels the loss. Commander Sloan has arrested the Council and has them whipped for not agreeing with his goals. Julian call it quits , but they won’t let him go in peace, in pieces, probably. This is an exciting, interesting, and spicy story I really enjoyed.
1,408 reviews
April 11, 2026
for the first few chptrs, I cld have sworn I read this story before. I kept expecting the children to rescued w the school bus zooming thru the wall/gate. That didn't happen, now I'm wondering what story I'm remembering.
Profile Image for Mimi.
2,581 reviews
March 14, 2026
4.5 stars

I’m glad to get back to this series. Really looking forward to the next one.
Profile Image for River.
521 reviews10 followers
March 28, 2026
This was so entertaining. I absolutely loved this. The drama just keeps getting better and better. I definitely loved the progression of realization and then subsequent increase of the stakes.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews