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Under False Lights: A Dark Spicy Thriller Romance
A fiercely controlled Inspector of the Hamburg Police finds the perfect subject for her secret a charming Spanish comedian who craves submission.
By day, Merle Hoffmann is the untouchable Ice Queen, known for her clinical precision and ability to read any criminal. By night, she is the woman who keeps a treasure chest of silk ropes and restraints hidden under her bed, desperately waiting for someone strong enough to handle her darkest desires.
When Santiago, a Spanish expat running from a recent heartbreak, crosses her path on a dating app, Merle recognizes the perfect blend of charisma and vulnerability. Their conversation ignites instantly, built on sharp wit and growing obsession. He wants to break her rules; she wants to be broken down.
Their first physical encounter is a masterpiece of power exchange, where Santiago submits completely, believing he is participating in a fantasy. But the reality is far more Merle is a genuine authority figure, and Santiago is unknowingly caught in a lie when a missing person report lands on her desk—HIS missing person report.
Discover this thrilling, high-stakes dual POV dark romance where the only way to gain control is through complete surrender. Get ready for a tense, spicy journey where the game of love is also a dangerous police case.
For fans who love Priest by Sierra Simone, The Ritual by Shantiel Tessier, and The Mindf*ck Series by S. T. Abby.
By day, Merle Hoffmann is the untouchable Ice Queen, known for her clinical precision and ability to read any criminal. By night, she is the woman who keeps a treasure chest of silk ropes and restraints hidden under her bed, desperately waiting for someone strong enough to handle her darkest desires.
When Santiago, a Spanish expat running from a recent heartbreak, crosses her path on a dating app, Merle recognizes the perfect blend of charisma and vulnerability. Their conversation ignites instantly, built on sharp wit and growing obsession. He wants to break her rules; she wants to be broken down.
Their first physical encounter is a masterpiece of power exchange, where Santiago submits completely, believing he is participating in a fantasy. But the reality is far more Merle is a genuine authority figure, and Santiago is unknowingly caught in a lie when a missing person report lands on her desk—HIS missing person report.
Discover this thrilling, high-stakes dual POV dark romance where the only way to gain control is through complete surrender. Get ready for a tense, spicy journey where the game of love is also a dangerous police case.
For fans who love Priest by Sierra Simone, The Ritual by Shantiel Tessier, and The Mindf*ck Series by S. T. Abby.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
October 15, 2025
I was sent this book in exchange for a honest review.
This book is sharp, direct and almost aggressive in its opening. Quick tempo and short chapters. The pacing brings edge to the book perfectly encapsulating Merles outlook on life. Santiago is floundering and heartbroken after being being blindsided by his girlfriend. The book is wonderfully descriptive about the city without being too wordy which I appreciate. Merles rules were designed to keep her in control and she's finding that control slipping through her fingers. She a woman full of contractions- strong but soft underneath, in control but wishing to be vulnerable, having it all together but underneath she's a mass of secrets and facade. Santiago is both running and trying to be found. He's a comedian that's lost his humour, his heart isn't in it as it's been shattered. He loves the cadence and the beat of Hamburg and is trying to rediscover himself. Their meeting starts from an app, from a swipe and through the absurd question he poses to her, they begin their story. The POV from both MC's is enjoyable as the nuances aren't missed from either person that way. The chapters are full of intrigue, promise, truths, provocation and building something. The pacing through the chapters, through the back and forth POV are building an exciting meet up. When they meet it's a cat and mouse game of throbbing tension and undeniable pulse. The retelling of the moment each time it goes back and forth is good but occasionally you've heard from Merle then Santiago and back to Merle and it's repeated again from her last chapter so it's occasionally felt clunky but that wasn't enough to detract me from the story.
The meet is hot and heavy and her desires are lit by someone who may connect with her in exactly the way she wishes deep down. She wants to be dominant and submissive with a partner and wonders of Santiago maybe that person. This book finishes in the same way it started. Quickly and aggressively. It's an enjoyable read.
This book is sharp, direct and almost aggressive in its opening. Quick tempo and short chapters. The pacing brings edge to the book perfectly encapsulating Merles outlook on life. Santiago is floundering and heartbroken after being being blindsided by his girlfriend. The book is wonderfully descriptive about the city without being too wordy which I appreciate. Merles rules were designed to keep her in control and she's finding that control slipping through her fingers. She a woman full of contractions- strong but soft underneath, in control but wishing to be vulnerable, having it all together but underneath she's a mass of secrets and facade. Santiago is both running and trying to be found. He's a comedian that's lost his humour, his heart isn't in it as it's been shattered. He loves the cadence and the beat of Hamburg and is trying to rediscover himself. Their meeting starts from an app, from a swipe and through the absurd question he poses to her, they begin their story. The POV from both MC's is enjoyable as the nuances aren't missed from either person that way. The chapters are full of intrigue, promise, truths, provocation and building something. The pacing through the chapters, through the back and forth POV are building an exciting meet up. When they meet it's a cat and mouse game of throbbing tension and undeniable pulse. The retelling of the moment each time it goes back and forth is good but occasionally you've heard from Merle then Santiago and back to Merle and it's repeated again from her last chapter so it's occasionally felt clunky but that wasn't enough to detract me from the story.
The meet is hot and heavy and her desires are lit by someone who may connect with her in exactly the way she wishes deep down. She wants to be dominant and submissive with a partner and wonders of Santiago maybe that person. This book finishes in the same way it started. Quickly and aggressively. It's an enjoyable read.
September 22, 2025
In Under False Lights by Bruno Clozel, we’re given a story that is as beautiful as it is unexpected. It doesn’t read like a formula romance, and that’s what makes it stand out. From the start, Merle and Santiago pulled me in. Merle can be obsessive, so sure and calculating at times, yet she’s also sharp and fascinating. Santiago, a comedian, is bold on the surface but it’s his shy, vulnerable moments that make him unforgettable. Watching their roles shift. Santiago moving into strength while Merle falters, added a raw, human balance that kept me turning the pages.
The pairing itself feels unusual: an inspector (police officer) and a comedian. But Clozel makes it work, showing how a spark can come from unlikely corners. Even more striking is the way their story begins, on a dating app. In a world where technology can feel like it cheapens connections, Clozel flips that idea on its head. Through their exchanges, he shows that app and text message conversations can carry depth, humor, and intimacy. Their messages develop their relationship and really push both their boundaries.
Hamburg, Germany, is more than a backdrop here. The way each character paints the city, with its streets, soft energy, and pulse, makes it feel like a character in its own right. I came away feeling as though I’d walked those same streets alongside them.
If there is one critique, it’s that a few scenes are retold from both perspectives without offering much new. While dual narration can add scene richness, these moments occasionally slowed the momentum.
Still, the heart of the book lies in Merle’s many layers and Santiago’s quiet, steady presence. The open yet hopeful ending felt true to the story, no false fairy tale, but something real and believable. Under False Lights left me smiling, blushing, and genuinely moved.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) through Reedsy Discovery
The pairing itself feels unusual: an inspector (police officer) and a comedian. But Clozel makes it work, showing how a spark can come from unlikely corners. Even more striking is the way their story begins, on a dating app. In a world where technology can feel like it cheapens connections, Clozel flips that idea on its head. Through their exchanges, he shows that app and text message conversations can carry depth, humor, and intimacy. Their messages develop their relationship and really push both their boundaries.
Hamburg, Germany, is more than a backdrop here. The way each character paints the city, with its streets, soft energy, and pulse, makes it feel like a character in its own right. I came away feeling as though I’d walked those same streets alongside them.
If there is one critique, it’s that a few scenes are retold from both perspectives without offering much new. While dual narration can add scene richness, these moments occasionally slowed the momentum.
Still, the heart of the book lies in Merle’s many layers and Santiago’s quiet, steady presence. The open yet hopeful ending felt true to the story, no false fairy tale, but something real and believable. Under False Lights left me smiling, blushing, and genuinely moved.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) through Reedsy Discovery
October 23, 2025
This book was a wild ride! Didn’t see that ending coming!
A dual POV and dual timeline story set in Hamburg, Germany.
It definitely started off slow with lots of description, I’d even go as far to say a romanticising of locations, actions of the FMC and MMC and their thoughts and feelings.
There was some missing descriptions for terms/phrases used, for non German natives/speakers.
I had to take time out from reading to look up phrases such as “The Reeperbahn fascinated me”. This made it feel a little stop start for me at the beginning.
Once the two main characters became involved in each other’s storylines the flow became easier and the tension between the two got hotter, heavier and quicker paced.
If you are into control freaks and easy-breezy characters you’ll love the FMC and MMC.
I won’t say anymore as I do not want to give away any spoilers for those that wish to read the book. You definitely won’t see the ending coming though!
A dual POV and dual timeline story set in Hamburg, Germany.
It definitely started off slow with lots of description, I’d even go as far to say a romanticising of locations, actions of the FMC and MMC and their thoughts and feelings.
There was some missing descriptions for terms/phrases used, for non German natives/speakers.
I had to take time out from reading to look up phrases such as “The Reeperbahn fascinated me”. This made it feel a little stop start for me at the beginning.
Once the two main characters became involved in each other’s storylines the flow became easier and the tension between the two got hotter, heavier and quicker paced.
If you are into control freaks and easy-breezy characters you’ll love the FMC and MMC.
I won’t say anymore as I do not want to give away any spoilers for those that wish to read the book. You definitely won’t see the ending coming though!
October 18, 2025
I was sent this book to give an honest review.
At the start of this book the chapters a really short and fast paced getting you sucked into the characters quickly.
This book is from both MC's POV's so some chapters do repeat themselves as its the same scene but from each MC's perspective but it doesn't disrupt the story to much.
It was beautiful how Bruno described the city, it drew you in and made you really picture how the story is told, like a movie playing in your mind as you read it, not a detail missed.
The ending was just as fast paced as the beginning but not in a bad way.
This was a lovely little book to read about 2-3 hours long, depending on how fast you read.
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶 🌶 🌶. 5
At the start of this book the chapters a really short and fast paced getting you sucked into the characters quickly.
This book is from both MC's POV's so some chapters do repeat themselves as its the same scene but from each MC's perspective but it doesn't disrupt the story to much.
It was beautiful how Bruno described the city, it drew you in and made you really picture how the story is told, like a movie playing in your mind as you read it, not a detail missed.
The ending was just as fast paced as the beginning but not in a bad way.
This was a lovely little book to read about 2-3 hours long, depending on how fast you read.
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶 🌶 🌶. 5
September 22, 2025
There was just too many words for the sake of words, repeated conversations from her point of view and then his. Told in fragments, lots of 3, 4 and 5 word sentences, which was frustrating. Too much descriptive writing about thoughts, feelings, places to fill up the pages. 18 chapters in and that's the first time they actually speak to each other in person not through voice notes or texts, I know it's a slow burn but 18 chapters? When they do eventually get together, she's the dom and he's the sub which I didn't see coming. I didn't completely hate it, but I didn't love it either, i'm somewhere in the middle. 3 🌟
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2025
Honestly, I was skeptical. A police inspector and a comedian meeting on a dating app? Sounds like a setup for a fluffy rom-com, but Bruno Clozel's Under False Lights is anything but. This is a smart, raw, and genuinely messy dark romance. The emotional depth Clozel gives Merle and Santiago is incredible! They feel like real people trying to figure out a complicated connection. It’s not just "dark," it's complex and utterly absorbing. If you want a romance that feels real and challenges the usual formula, stop scrolling and start reading. The romance simmers under the dread in a way that feels dangerous and addictive. If you like danger-flirt energy, this one’s for you!
September 27, 2025
Interesting romance story with definite secrets.
“Under False Lights: A Dark Romance Novel of Secrets” was an interesting read. I understand the author’s need to provide a backstory and capture everyone’s point of view, but at times the narrative felt repetitive when the same events were retold from different perspectives. While this occasionally slowed the pacing, it also allowed for deeper insight into each character’s motives and emotions, adding layers to the overall story. Fans of dark romance may still enjoy the atmosphere and intrigue.
“Under False Lights: A Dark Romance Novel of Secrets” was an interesting read. I understand the author’s need to provide a backstory and capture everyone’s point of view, but at times the narrative felt repetitive when the same events were retold from different perspectives. While this occasionally slowed the pacing, it also allowed for deeper insight into each character’s motives and emotions, adding layers to the overall story. Fans of dark romance may still enjoy the atmosphere and intrigue.
October 6, 2025
It's so wonderful when an author writes a book dedicated to a specific character and story, allowing us to experience the entire scenario. And that's how it was with Merle and Santi: seeing the entire story unfold, with all the intensity, tension, and emotion involved, the dedication of each character... you become so immersed in the story that you lose track of time and get carried away. This book has it all; it's easy to read and keeps you hooked from beginning to end... waiting for the next one.
October 24, 2025
Merle is a strong character who never loses her grip. Santiago, a sweet and gentle man, gives Merle the time she needs to start their relationship. The story feels driven more by lust than love, but I really enjoyed how it unfolded. In the middle, I thought there might be a suspenseful twist, but it unwinds in the end. Instead, it remained an easy and interesting read.
October 21, 2025
A Captivating and Intelligent Thriller
Under False Lights is a gripping, thought-provoking novel that had me hooked from the very first chapter. Bruno Clozel weaves a fast-paced, cleverly constructed story that blends mystery, political intrigue, and human emotion in a way that feels both thrilling and relevant.
The characters are well-developed and realistic, each carrying their own secrets and motivations that keep you guessing until the very end. Clozel’s writing is sharp and evocative, pulling you into a world where nothing is quite as it seems. The plot twists are perfectly timed—never predictable, but always satisfying—and the pacing kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What I loved most was how Under False Lights explores deeper themes about truth, trust, and the hidden forces that shape our lives, all while keeping the tension high. If you enjoy intelligent thrillers with a touch of sophistication and a strong emotional core, this book is a must-read.
Highly recommended for fans of Dan Brown, John le Carré, or anyone who loves a smart, suspenseful page-turner.
Under False Lights is a gripping, thought-provoking novel that had me hooked from the very first chapter. Bruno Clozel weaves a fast-paced, cleverly constructed story that blends mystery, political intrigue, and human emotion in a way that feels both thrilling and relevant.
The characters are well-developed and realistic, each carrying their own secrets and motivations that keep you guessing until the very end. Clozel’s writing is sharp and evocative, pulling you into a world where nothing is quite as it seems. The plot twists are perfectly timed—never predictable, but always satisfying—and the pacing kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What I loved most was how Under False Lights explores deeper themes about truth, trust, and the hidden forces that shape our lives, all while keeping the tension high. If you enjoy intelligent thrillers with a touch of sophistication and a strong emotional core, this book is a must-read.
Highly recommended for fans of Dan Brown, John le Carré, or anyone who loves a smart, suspenseful page-turner.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews