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The First Touch: A Dark Stepbrother Cult Romance
Some girls get kissed.
She got claimed.
Lorelei was raised to kneel — to serve, obey men, and smile while unraveling. But when her mother marries into a sanctified dynasty, Lorelei is given a new name, a new father, and two stepbrothers who know exactly how to twist obedience into desire.
One of them watches.
One of them waits.
And one night, one of them takes.
She doesn’t remember saying yes. But her body did.
Now she can’t sleep without tasting him. Can’t pray without remembering what was done in the dark.
This isn’t love. This is how you break a girl and convince her it was divine.
She got claimed.
Lorelei was raised to kneel — to serve, obey men, and smile while unraveling. But when her mother marries into a sanctified dynasty, Lorelei is given a new name, a new father, and two stepbrothers who know exactly how to twist obedience into desire.
One of them watches.
One of them waits.
And one night, one of them takes.
She doesn’t remember saying yes. But her body did.
Now she can’t sleep without tasting him. Can’t pray without remembering what was done in the dark.
This isn’t love. This is how you break a girl and convince her it was divine.
- GenresDark Romance
109 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2025
43 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
November 10, 2025
*I WAS GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO READ THIS EARLY AS AN ARC READER FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*❤️
This novella was a great start to the series and I cannot wait to read more. This is a first from these authors and I can’t wait to see where they go with the series.
We have the main character Lorelei. Two MMC Cassian and Ash. (We need to learn more about them) however one sees very Broody, possessive, and has a “I’m making the choice” kinda man, whereas the other one seems like a “follower/you didn’t listen” type of man. I’m excited to see the character development.
The spice was good.
I can’t wait to read more.
Tropes & Themes:
Forbidden Romance
Age Gap
Obsessive Male Lead (yes, please)
Good Girl
Cult Influence
Forced Proximity
Stepbrothers
Dubious Consent
3.75 ⭐️
This novella was a great start to the series and I cannot wait to read more. This is a first from these authors and I can’t wait to see where they go with the series.
We have the main character Lorelei. Two MMC Cassian and Ash. (We need to learn more about them) however one sees very Broody, possessive, and has a “I’m making the choice” kinda man, whereas the other one seems like a “follower/you didn’t listen” type of man. I’m excited to see the character development.
The spice was good.
I can’t wait to read more.
Tropes & Themes:
Forbidden Romance
Age Gap
Obsessive Male Lead (yes, please)
Good Girl
Cult Influence
Forced Proximity
Stepbrothers
Dubious Consent
3.75 ⭐️
July 26, 2025
This is a great opening to the dark and twisted world of the StepSin series.
It gives plenty of background without giving too much away and creates enough tension, drama and intrigue that you want to keep going.
Great prequel novella with characters you want to learn more about.
Cassian is your perfect dark, brooding MMC with secrets and probably some unwritten (in this book, at least) trauma and demons. There is definitely more to him than meets the eye. Much like our FMC, Lorelei, who seems innocent and unassuming.
Ash, the other brother, clearly protective and maybe not as on board with the rules as it would appear but again, theres clearly more to them all that I am sure will be revealed the further we get.
The cult storyline is very intriguing as a dark romance trope and there is definitely more to Cassian and his feelings about the "Prophecy" than just what he's been molded to be and believe by his father and the temple.
Theres a decent amount of spice within the taboo nature of the plot but it does not overpower and there is a point to it to some extent within the story itself.
Would definitely recommend and look forward to the rest of the series.
4 stars and a 3 for spice based on the taboo nature and dubious consent.
It gives plenty of background without giving too much away and creates enough tension, drama and intrigue that you want to keep going.
Great prequel novella with characters you want to learn more about.
Cassian is your perfect dark, brooding MMC with secrets and probably some unwritten (in this book, at least) trauma and demons. There is definitely more to him than meets the eye. Much like our FMC, Lorelei, who seems innocent and unassuming.
Ash, the other brother, clearly protective and maybe not as on board with the rules as it would appear but again, theres clearly more to them all that I am sure will be revealed the further we get.
The cult storyline is very intriguing as a dark romance trope and there is definitely more to Cassian and his feelings about the "Prophecy" than just what he's been molded to be and believe by his father and the temple.
Theres a decent amount of spice within the taboo nature of the plot but it does not overpower and there is a point to it to some extent within the story itself.
Would definitely recommend and look forward to the rest of the series.
4 stars and a 3 for spice based on the taboo nature and dubious consent.
July 31, 2025
⚠️Check TW’s before reading⚠️
🖤 This is a prequel in the “The Step Sin series”, which means it doesn’t have an HEA because the story is continued in book 1. Like always, check trigger warnings before reading. Kamila and Jus give enough to know what’s going on but also just enough to still keep you like “I need to know what’s gonna happen”. I love how much the cult undertones and background add to the taboo/forbidden aspect of it. On one side you have the protective brother (Ash) and the obsessive stalker MMC (Cassian) who is more involved with the cult, and I need to know what else is going to happen with that and know what it all means. Ok, but can we talk about the scene that lives rent free in my brain?! That scene with the masked stranger 👀!! Also, I can’t wait to see more of Rafe and Ash, especially after that ending glimpse.
📚Book Type: prequel to the “The Step Sin series”
✨Tropes/CW’s
🧎🏽♀️Somnophilia
🧎🏽♀️Step-sibling (sexual relationship)
🧎🏽♀️Coercion/manipulation
🧎🏽♀️Cult like themes/religious manipulation(implied)
🧎🏽♀️Stalking
🖤 This is a prequel in the “The Step Sin series”, which means it doesn’t have an HEA because the story is continued in book 1. Like always, check trigger warnings before reading. Kamila and Jus give enough to know what’s going on but also just enough to still keep you like “I need to know what’s gonna happen”. I love how much the cult undertones and background add to the taboo/forbidden aspect of it. On one side you have the protective brother (Ash) and the obsessive stalker MMC (Cassian) who is more involved with the cult, and I need to know what else is going to happen with that and know what it all means. Ok, but can we talk about the scene that lives rent free in my brain?! That scene with the masked stranger 👀!! Also, I can’t wait to see more of Rafe and Ash, especially after that ending glimpse.
📚Book Type: prequel to the “The Step Sin series”
✨Tropes/CW’s
🧎🏽♀️Somnophilia
🧎🏽♀️Step-sibling (sexual relationship)
🧎🏽♀️Coercion/manipulation
🧎🏽♀️Cult like themes/religious manipulation(implied)
🧎🏽♀️Stalking
July 30, 2025
Ohhhhh man this one was good! Dark and Delicious when it needed to be. From the get go the visualization just pulled me in and left me wanting more. The words just ebbed and flowed and lulled me into a space I didn’t want to leave. Cass and Ash seem complicated and yet so sexy abd desirable . Lark seems like a hot mess and we are kindred spirits! I can’t wait to watch her growth as the series continues. Cult like culture with sone taboo relationships who could want more? Can’t wait for the next book. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book early. I hope it reaches the right audience ❣️
July 31, 2025
I read this book in one sitting and I’m glad I picked it up. I love the mashup between the two authors and how this series started. As a prequel, I was able to get to know the characters and have an idea of what their roles will be.
I absolutely loved Ash & Cassian. These two characters and their interactions with Lorelei (Lark) were ones I didn’t want to stop reading. The friend Evie was an added benefit.
Rafe swooped in and I would love to see more of him.
Overall, this prequel was enjoyable and I’m ready to read the rest of the series!
I absolutely loved Ash & Cassian. These two characters and their interactions with Lorelei (Lark) were ones I didn’t want to stop reading. The friend Evie was an added benefit.
Rafe swooped in and I would love to see more of him.
Overall, this prequel was enjoyable and I’m ready to read the rest of the series!
July 30, 2025
ARC Review : Omg! This prequel was so good! I cannot wait for the first book of the series to come out. Cassian is my man through and through!!! What he did was so hot and can’t wait to see what happens next in the series.
July 30, 2025
This deliciously short prequel was so good! It gave an amazing build for what may be to come in the series. It left the right number of questions.... I need to know.... Vessel? For what? Is this going to be a delicious why choose or reverse harem? Tell me more!!!!
August 16, 2025
I enjoyed this prequel novella. It was a first for me by these authors, and it won't be the last!
I felt like the characters were easy to follow along with, the spice was there, the taboo factor was there, plot was there, so all in all, a good start!
I felt like the characters were easy to follow along with, the spice was there, the taboo factor was there, plot was there, so all in all, a good start!
August 16, 2025
The First Touch is a dark, taboo, and utterly addictive novella that hooked me from the start. The story follows Lorelei (Lark) and her stepbrothers Asher and Cassian, and let me tell you—this one is not for the faint of heart. Check those trigger warnings carefully, because this book has plenty, including: age gap, obsessive male leads, cult influence, somnophilia, manipulation, religious control, stalking, dubious consent, and of course, stepbrother/taboo dynamics.
What makes this book so captivating is the way it balances tension, drama, suspense, and spice. The chemistry between Lorelei and her stepbrothers is searing, and every scene is dripping with forbidden intensity. Ash and Cassian both bring something different to the table, and their interactions with Lorelei kept me completely glued to the pages. The romantic tension was just that addictive.
This novella is packed with spice—I’d rate it 4/5—and the writing style pulls you deep into this dark and twisted world. It peels back the curtain on the three enigmatic figures at the heart of the story: Lorelei, Cassian, and Asher. And I have to admit…I am definitely a Cassian girl. That brooding intensity, his raw possessiveness? Be still my heart. 🖤🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Overall, The First Touch is sinfully forbidden, unapologetically dark, and seething with tension. If you’re a fan of forbidden romance, this book is an absolute must-read. Just remember: the triggers are heavy, but if you’re okay with them, prepare yourself for a story that is as addictive as it is forbidden.
What makes this book so captivating is the way it balances tension, drama, suspense, and spice. The chemistry between Lorelei and her stepbrothers is searing, and every scene is dripping with forbidden intensity. Ash and Cassian both bring something different to the table, and their interactions with Lorelei kept me completely glued to the pages. The romantic tension was just that addictive.
This novella is packed with spice—I’d rate it 4/5—and the writing style pulls you deep into this dark and twisted world. It peels back the curtain on the three enigmatic figures at the heart of the story: Lorelei, Cassian, and Asher. And I have to admit…I am definitely a Cassian girl. That brooding intensity, his raw possessiveness? Be still my heart. 🖤🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Overall, The First Touch is sinfully forbidden, unapologetically dark, and seething with tension. If you’re a fan of forbidden romance, this book is an absolute must-read. Just remember: the triggers are heavy, but if you’re okay with them, prepare yourself for a story that is as addictive as it is forbidden.
July 28, 2025
🌟 ARC Review: The First Touch
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, an immense thank you to the authors for granting me the privilege of reading this intoxicating prequel early. Being chosen as an ARC reader for The First Touch felt like stepping into a world I didn’t know I’d crave so deeply. And now that I’ve tasted it? I’m hooked.
This novella is the gateway drug to The Step Sins series, dangerously addictive, sinfully forbidden, and seething with tension. It peels back the curtain on the three enigmatic figures at the heart of this twisted tale: Lorelei, Cassian, and Asher. And let me be clear, I am already a Cassian girl through and through. That brooding intensity? That possessiveness? Say no more. 🖤🫶🏻
The cult backdrop adds a layer of haunting allure, heightening the stakes in every stolen glance, every rule-breaking touch. The romance? Forbidden. The chemistry? Electric. The spice? Unapologetically searing 🔥🔥🔥
This prequel is a whispered vow of chaos, obsession, and heartbreak to come. I’m desperate for The First Sinner. I need to know what happened. What’s happening. And what darkness these characters will dive into next.
Tropes & Themes:
Forbidden Romance
Age Gap
Obsessive Male Lead (yes, please)
Good Girl
Cult Influence
Forced Proximity
Stepbrothers
Dubious Consent
If you like your romances taboo, your heroes dangerous, and your heart constantly on the edge, The First Touch is your invitation into the fire. Don’t walk. Run.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, an immense thank you to the authors for granting me the privilege of reading this intoxicating prequel early. Being chosen as an ARC reader for The First Touch felt like stepping into a world I didn’t know I’d crave so deeply. And now that I’ve tasted it? I’m hooked.
This novella is the gateway drug to The Step Sins series, dangerously addictive, sinfully forbidden, and seething with tension. It peels back the curtain on the three enigmatic figures at the heart of this twisted tale: Lorelei, Cassian, and Asher. And let me be clear, I am already a Cassian girl through and through. That brooding intensity? That possessiveness? Say no more. 🖤🫶🏻
The cult backdrop adds a layer of haunting allure, heightening the stakes in every stolen glance, every rule-breaking touch. The romance? Forbidden. The chemistry? Electric. The spice? Unapologetically searing 🔥🔥🔥
This prequel is a whispered vow of chaos, obsession, and heartbreak to come. I’m desperate for The First Sinner. I need to know what happened. What’s happening. And what darkness these characters will dive into next.
Tropes & Themes:
Forbidden Romance
Age Gap
Obsessive Male Lead (yes, please)
Good Girl
Cult Influence
Forced Proximity
Stepbrothers
Dubious Consent
If you like your romances taboo, your heroes dangerous, and your heart constantly on the edge, The First Touch is your invitation into the fire. Don’t walk. Run.
July 27, 2025
The First Touch is a prequel in Synn & Garza's The Step Sins series. This cult romance features Lorelei (aka Lark), Cassian and Asher. Cassian and Asher share the same father, Alistair, but have different mothers. Their father is now with Lorelei's mother, making them step-siblings.
While Asher seems to be the protective brother, Cassian definitely embodies the morally grey brother. Both seem to have been raised by their father, indoctrinated into some questionable religion with some dubious practices. Lorelei seems to be your typical college student however her new family definitely has plans for her.
The writing was quite captivating and suggestive with being too revealing. These authors have laid the groundwork for what is sure to be a delicious dark romance with lots of intrigue and spice. They have certainly captured my interest and I will be watching for The First Sinner to drop so I can jump right in!
While Asher seems to be the protective brother, Cassian definitely embodies the morally grey brother. Both seem to have been raised by their father, indoctrinated into some questionable religion with some dubious practices. Lorelei seems to be your typical college student however her new family definitely has plans for her.
The writing was quite captivating and suggestive with being too revealing. These authors have laid the groundwork for what is sure to be a delicious dark romance with lots of intrigue and spice. They have certainly captured my interest and I will be watching for The First Sinner to drop so I can jump right in!
August 14, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
First of all, I love the name Lorelei. Rooted in mystical allure, Lorelei is the haunting siren song that lures you inexorably towards your doom. It fits our FMC like a glove.
Garza and Synn writing is like an ode, flowery and lyrical. The story they tell is beautifully unhinged. The tension is palpable. The characters are compelling. The pages are laced in prophecy, with a touch of stepbrother obsession and a taste of masked man. And the cult backdrop just makes it all the more intriguing.
They had me at chapter 2. The dark brooding aura, the possessiveness, bleeding from Cassian words had me hooked.
I will follow where these two lead, because The First Touch is but a small sip and now I am thirsty for more. I need The First Sinner like yesterday. Also I need more Ash and Rafe, just putting it out there.
"Now there’s this thick, cotton-candy haze behind my eyes."
Please read through the triggers, this story might not be suitable for everyone.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
First of all, I love the name Lorelei. Rooted in mystical allure, Lorelei is the haunting siren song that lures you inexorably towards your doom. It fits our FMC like a glove.
Garza and Synn writing is like an ode, flowery and lyrical. The story they tell is beautifully unhinged. The tension is palpable. The characters are compelling. The pages are laced in prophecy, with a touch of stepbrother obsession and a taste of masked man. And the cult backdrop just makes it all the more intriguing.
They had me at chapter 2. The dark brooding aura, the possessiveness, bleeding from Cassian words had me hooked.
I will follow where these two lead, because The First Touch is but a small sip and now I am thirsty for more. I need The First Sinner like yesterday. Also I need more Ash and Rafe, just putting it out there.
"Now there’s this thick, cotton-candy haze behind my eyes."
Please read through the triggers, this story might not be suitable for everyone.
August 12, 2025
This short read is the prequel to the StepSin Series and an amazing introduction to meet the characters and get a sense of the setting here.
Lorelei (Lark) is FMC, we are introduced to her mental well being, thoughts & behaviors. Her mom seems to be in charge and runs things. The man she has married is a leader in a cult and father to 2 adults men; Cassian and Ash. Apparently there is a promise of Lark to become the wife of one of them, but she must be the one to choose. Oh and btw, she has no idea of this promise.
So get ready, I have a feeling this is going to be a dark, spicy and wild ride in this series and I'm not complaining, I'm so excited for it! Jus & Kamila aren't holding back, giving us parties, sinful lust & secrets, cult rituals and of course taboo & forbidden relationships. Ready for the next book!
Lorelei (Lark) is FMC, we are introduced to her mental well being, thoughts & behaviors. Her mom seems to be in charge and runs things. The man she has married is a leader in a cult and father to 2 adults men; Cassian and Ash. Apparently there is a promise of Lark to become the wife of one of them, but she must be the one to choose. Oh and btw, she has no idea of this promise.
So get ready, I have a feeling this is going to be a dark, spicy and wild ride in this series and I'm not complaining, I'm so excited for it! Jus & Kamila aren't holding back, giving us parties, sinful lust & secrets, cult rituals and of course taboo & forbidden relationships. Ready for the next book!
August 4, 2025
So first thing first make sure to check the TW before reading the story they are some topics that are dark in the book. This is a prequel to the for the series so you gonna have to read this book before other the other books. This book has a cult story line that plays in the book we have our main character Cassian, and Asher area brothers and have the same dad then we have Lorelei who mother married the boys dad making them step siblings. Over all it was a good book that gave you a sneak peak for the the first book. Cant wait to see what the next book has in store.
August 6, 2025
This is an intriguing start to the series! The book follows Lorelei ("Lark"), who seems to be promised to her stepbrothers after her mother marries into a cult.
This is a short story and just an introduction to the main characters - in particular Lorelei and her stepbrothers - but it's a delicious read. The tension between Lorelei, Ash, and Cassian is palpable, and the spice is very spicy.
I'm looking forward to learning more about the brothers and their family and to seeing how Lorelei ends up handling her desires and her obligations.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
This is a short story and just an introduction to the main characters - in particular Lorelei and her stepbrothers - but it's a delicious read. The tension between Lorelei, Ash, and Cassian is palpable, and the spice is very spicy.
I'm looking forward to learning more about the brothers and their family and to seeing how Lorelei ends up handling her desires and her obligations.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
August 21, 2025
This book was DELICIOUS. I feel so intertwined between Cassian & Ash are brothers who are completely engulfed in everything that is Lorelei (Lark). Larks mom marries Alistair who is part of a cult - yes a cult. He is promised that one of his sons will marry lark but she has to choose who. And what a choice she has. The spice in here is SPICING. The wording and usage was perfect. The story line was gripping. I can’t wait to see how this unfolds.
August 13, 2025
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I liked the description of the scenes, the intricate propositions and the way the author got the story of the first touch through.
Despite it not being my kibda writing style i found myself flipping the pages and reading it all in one go. An exciting read that will leave your knickers in a twist wsnting the next book!
Overall I liked the description of the scenes, the intricate propositions and the way the author got the story of the first touch through.
Despite it not being my kibda writing style i found myself flipping the pages and reading it all in one go. An exciting read that will leave your knickers in a twist wsnting the next book!
August 15, 2025
When I saw this book was a step sibling, cult book I knew I had to devour it. It is short ,yea and it this short pages it holds an addictive story. As soon as I started reading it I had the feeling of hold on and enjoy this ride. It was a great start to a series/characters I know I will be addicted too.
October 11, 2025
strange and confusing
The storyline made little to no sense but I kept waiting for it to click and understand. There are hints of cult but no for sure mentions. There are two brothers and then throw in another dude. No one knows who the girl is or why she is upset. The only thing that made a lick of sense was the sex
The storyline made little to no sense but I kept waiting for it to click and understand. There are hints of cult but no for sure mentions. There are two brothers and then throw in another dude. No one knows who the girl is or why she is upset. The only thing that made a lick of sense was the sex
November 17, 2025
This is book 1 of The Step Sins series. Watch your triggers.
The characters were dark, disturbing, complex and compelling. Plot was intriguing and intense. The world building was well developed and drawn. Recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters were dark, disturbing, complex and compelling. Plot was intriguing and intense. The world building was well developed and drawn. Recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2025
I received this as an arc and oh my sweet lord. This was spicy and delicious in all the best ways. You get a mix of spice, suspense, thrill and parts that make you shiver with delight. This was an excellent read and highly recommend it.
August 3, 2025
Wow, what a ride. This was twisted and dark and a perfect way to start the series. I finished this in one sitting and I am so happy I did. I cannot wait for the for the next book. The entire time I had questions and every time I thought they were answered, there was more.
August 6, 2025
Fascinating
Very interesting take on religious cults. I wonder how the story will progress. Cassian's desire, Lark's need to be free, yet she does not fully release herself from the family. Ash's jealousy, and where does Rafe fit into all of this.
Very interesting take on religious cults. I wonder how the story will progress. Cassian's desire, Lark's need to be free, yet she does not fully release herself from the family. Ash's jealousy, and where does Rafe fit into all of this.
August 8, 2025
Ate this book UP in one sitting. Didn’t blink. Didn’t breathe. Just vibes, chaos, and straight taboo excellence.
The tension? Nasty. Listen, yall got me in a chokehold. Book two better be ready because I am.
The tension? Nasty. Listen, yall got me in a chokehold. Book two better be ready because I am.
November 10, 2025
Wow...this was just the prequel and I'm hooked, it was dark and I love it. I can't go into much about the plot as it was only a short book but I can't say I'm looking forward to the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2025
This was a great prequel novella. Deliciously dark, has some great spice, and characters you're desperate to know more about. Excited for the rest of this series!
August 16, 2025
This is a short read that has me hooked and ready for The first sinner …..
August 19, 2025
Wow what an incredible start to a new series. This is just a little tease into the series. Man does it make me thirsty for more.
November 17, 2025
This was a wonderful prequel novella. It’s Deliciously dark it creates a bit of tension and drama to get you excited to read the full story. It has just a bit of spice to keep you wanting more.
December 8, 2025
Love this series. I hope there's more books to the series. I definitely became involved in the characters and looking forward to reading about them. Great series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews