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Shadows of Sin #5
The Ghost and the Sinner
Scarlett was born into a world that was owned by the Church of Daylight. They took her voice from her, and freedom was just a fairytale read about in the only book she was ever allowed to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. They made her the Favorite of the Leaders, promised her to the pastor's son, and taught her that obedience is survival. She followed the rules to the letter until, that was, a new pair of eyes fell on her back.
Her Ghost, her Hatter, gave her a new way to speak, rewriting the rules and bringing forth a possibility she had never considered escape. In his world, she was no longer a Favorite, looked at lustfully by everyone around her, but a Queen of Hearts with an ability to act on the quiet rage that had been building in her chest for longer than she could remember.
For years, Azrael has been working behind the scenes, manipulating carefully his own brothers and sisters to get to this point. Things begin falling into place, but what begins as a calculated extraction becomes an undeniable obsession. He needs the dear little prized possession of the church to work with him, what he hadn't considered was how much this little Chosen One would mean to him.
The Ghost and The Sinner is a vicious, intoxicating dark romance about power, reclamation, and a love that looks too much like ruin. Tick tock goes the clock, even for the sinners.
Her Ghost, her Hatter, gave her a new way to speak, rewriting the rules and bringing forth a possibility she had never considered escape. In his world, she was no longer a Favorite, looked at lustfully by everyone around her, but a Queen of Hearts with an ability to act on the quiet rage that had been building in her chest for longer than she could remember.
For years, Azrael has been working behind the scenes, manipulating carefully his own brothers and sisters to get to this point. Things begin falling into place, but what begins as a calculated extraction becomes an undeniable obsession. He needs the dear little prized possession of the church to work with him, what he hadn't considered was how much this little Chosen One would mean to him.
The Ghost and The Sinner is a vicious, intoxicating dark romance about power, reclamation, and a love that looks too much like ruin. Tick tock goes the clock, even for the sinners.
- GenresDark Romance
507 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
7 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 19, 2025
When I say dark romance, this is what I’m talking about! H. G. Johnston proves why they are a master of crafting stories that are both terrifying and achingly human. The Ghost and the Sinner consumed me whole, delivering a twisted, emotional descent through the minds of Azrael and Scarlet two of the most unhinged, damaged characters I’ve ever read, yet somehow rendered so real that their madness feels disturbingly logical from the inside. Their growth shattered me, the slow, brutal evolution of their bond made my chest ache, and the danger never once loosened its grip. This is a true slow burn that earns every ounce of intensity, blending hurt/comfort in its rawest, least traditional form with found family that would burn the world down for each other, a morally black MMC who welcomes the chaos, eye contact as devotion, violence as intimacy, and a devotion so obsessive it refuses to name itself. There are haunting Alice-in-Wonderland echoes, a devastating exploration of severe religious trauma, and a safe space built from broken pieces and bloodstained trust. If you love dark romance that goes all the way, emotionally, psychologically, and morally, I cannot recommend this book, this series, or this author enough… but seriously, heed the trigger warnings. H. G. Johnston does not pull punches. I absolutely can’t wait for more!!!
September 26, 2025
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 4 🌶
At a glance: Part 1 of a duet, secret society, undercover investigation, slow burn, religious tr@um@, (ult, connected storyline, feminine rage, mad hatter×queen of hearts vibes.
"And I hoped that when that day came, I at least had the strength within me to look up and watch as the world turned to ash."
I have been absolutely feral waiting for Azrael and Scarlett's story. Not only because they are the most unhinged of the group, but because Azrael practically has all of the answers. A lot of secrets have already been revealed in the first part, and I have no doubt that part two is absolutely going to blow me away. I also cannot wait to see Scarlett go all 🔪🔪🔪 on the people in that church. I absolutely love feminine rage, it's honestly one of my favorite tropes.
There is a lot of information dumped in the first 20% or so, but it's necessary for us to know what Azrael has been doing/learning in his investigation of the church in the years leading up to current events. We also learn about Scarlett and her past that is full of darkness and @bu$e. Because of this, it is a slow burn, and I highly recommend checking the TW'S, because this is going to be the darkest story yet.
Tick Tock little Sinner, it's time to play ♠️♥️♣️♦️
Spice: 4 🌶
At a glance: Part 1 of a duet, secret society, undercover investigation, slow burn, religious tr@um@, (ult, connected storyline, feminine rage, mad hatter×queen of hearts vibes.
"And I hoped that when that day came, I at least had the strength within me to look up and watch as the world turned to ash."
I have been absolutely feral waiting for Azrael and Scarlett's story. Not only because they are the most unhinged of the group, but because Azrael practically has all of the answers. A lot of secrets have already been revealed in the first part, and I have no doubt that part two is absolutely going to blow me away. I also cannot wait to see Scarlett go all 🔪🔪🔪 on the people in that church. I absolutely love feminine rage, it's honestly one of my favorite tropes.
There is a lot of information dumped in the first 20% or so, but it's necessary for us to know what Azrael has been doing/learning in his investigation of the church in the years leading up to current events. We also learn about Scarlett and her past that is full of darkness and @bu$e. Because of this, it is a slow burn, and I highly recommend checking the TW'S, because this is going to be the darkest story yet.
Tick Tock little Sinner, it's time to play ♠️♥️♣️♦️
November 13, 2025
When I talk about DARK romance, this is what I mean. H. G. Johnston is a master of constructing terrifying and heartfelt narratives that truly suck the reader in and The Ghost and the Sinner was no exception. Azrael and Scarlet are some of the most messed up characters I've read about and the author managed to make them still feel real. They are both fully and totally insane, yet the world still made sense when taken from their perspective. The emotional development was incredible, the character growth made me want to cry, and the danger was ever-present. If you love dark romance, I can't recommend this book/series/author enough, but seriously, check the trigger warnings. H. G. Johnston isn't playing around.
Read if you like...
🖤Damaged heroines
🖤People who are broken in the same way
🖤Hurt comfort in the least traditional sense
🖤Found family that would do literally anything for each other
🖤Morally black MMC who wants to watch it all burn
🖤Alice and Wonderland vibes used in very specific ways
🖤Overcoming severe religious trauma
🖤SLOWburn that is very much worth the wait (but seriously people, check TWs)
🖤Eye contact as a love language
🖤He builds a safe space for her
🖤Violence as a love language
🖤Dual PoV where he's obsessed and refuses to admit it
An e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own
Read if you like...
🖤Damaged heroines
🖤People who are broken in the same way
🖤Hurt comfort in the least traditional sense
🖤Found family that would do literally anything for each other
🖤Morally black MMC who wants to watch it all burn
🖤Alice and Wonderland vibes used in very specific ways
🖤Overcoming severe religious trauma
🖤SLOWburn that is very much worth the wait (but seriously people, check TWs)
🖤Eye contact as a love language
🖤He builds a safe space for her
🖤Violence as a love language
🖤Dual PoV where he's obsessed and refuses to admit it
An e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own
January 27, 2026
I’m blown away.
The Ghost and the Sinner is exactly what I crave from a dark romance. Heavy traumas, perspectives turned upside down. Or have they just rightly shifted? Eyes are opened. Voices are found. Rage is building. Reckoning is impending.
“Some flowers needed water and sun to thrive, others needed shadows and blood.”
This has been a long time coming.
My favorite of the boys, having his own book. Very well thought and conveniently placed. A multitude of crumbs left throughout the series now being picked up. The whole thing coming to the light. To the beginning of the end. This book is, after all, the first part of two.
The books in this series are getting progressively darker, it’s like a descent into darkness and Azrael’s fallen down that rabbit hole, realizing along the way that Scarlet is there with him, he just needs to push her a little more so she can embrace her potential in Wonderland. From the first book, he was already putting things in motion and to finally, finally get into his head? No words.
Azrael’s not like the others, his mental state is precariously tethered (or is it?) and what he finds in Scarlet is a piece of him. What they could do if she would just bloom. And bloom she wants to, if only she would break free of the shackles she was born to wear. So he plots and patiently, methodically places the pieces onto the chessboard, and now that he’s finally able to use her, he can also mold her into a weapon of her choosing.
Tick tock goes the clock.
I cannot stress enough how amazing this was. I need The Puppeteer right now.
If you’re a dark romance lover, I urge you to read this series. Check the trigger warnings, because it is quite heavy. And enjoy, because I sure did.
P.S: such a slow burn, HG did you want to antagonize me further?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice
Keywords: Alice in Wonderland inspired, extensive trauma, religion, abuse, secret society, “mute” fmc, mafia, organized mmc, trauma replacement, reckoning, plotting.
The Ghost and the Sinner is exactly what I crave from a dark romance. Heavy traumas, perspectives turned upside down. Or have they just rightly shifted? Eyes are opened. Voices are found. Rage is building. Reckoning is impending.
“Some flowers needed water and sun to thrive, others needed shadows and blood.”
This has been a long time coming.
My favorite of the boys, having his own book. Very well thought and conveniently placed. A multitude of crumbs left throughout the series now being picked up. The whole thing coming to the light. To the beginning of the end. This book is, after all, the first part of two.
The books in this series are getting progressively darker, it’s like a descent into darkness and Azrael’s fallen down that rabbit hole, realizing along the way that Scarlet is there with him, he just needs to push her a little more so she can embrace her potential in Wonderland. From the first book, he was already putting things in motion and to finally, finally get into his head? No words.
Azrael’s not like the others, his mental state is precariously tethered (or is it?) and what he finds in Scarlet is a piece of him. What they could do if she would just bloom. And bloom she wants to, if only she would break free of the shackles she was born to wear. So he plots and patiently, methodically places the pieces onto the chessboard, and now that he’s finally able to use her, he can also mold her into a weapon of her choosing.
Tick tock goes the clock.
I cannot stress enough how amazing this was. I need The Puppeteer right now.
If you’re a dark romance lover, I urge you to read this series. Check the trigger warnings, because it is quite heavy. And enjoy, because I sure did.
P.S: such a slow burn, HG did you want to antagonize me further?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice
Keywords: Alice in Wonderland inspired, extensive trauma, religion, abuse, secret society, “mute” fmc, mafia, organized mmc, trauma replacement, reckoning, plotting.
January 27, 2026
Let me tell you, I could NOT put this book down and I need book two ASAP (respectfully, not trying to rush the writing process, but OMG). It’s been awhile since I stayed up til 3am multiple nights to read until I couldn’t keep my eyes open anymore. I just HAD to know what was going to happen next. The characters, the heartbreak, the horror, the plot, the suspense (SO many questions I needed answers to), and the spicy scenes (major slow burn for obvious reasons when you start reading, but so worth it 🥵), this book was 10/10 and it might be the best book I read all year!
I am not OK after reading this! This was an emotional read from beginning to end. My heart SHATTERED for everything Scarlett went through and the people at the end of the book (if you read it, you know what I’m talking about). But I loved Azrael’s chaos and how intense he was. I’ve been looking forward to Azrael’s books since The Writer He Haunted and it did not disappoint. Scarlett’s growth as a character kept me going and I’m SO excited for her revenge in the second book.
Despite how dark this was (seriously, read the trigger warnings even if you’re someone who normally skips them), this was SO beautifully written. Being in the minds of Azrael and Scarlett was a crazy experience, especially seeing how their characters changed throughout the book. You can literally feel their anger as you’re reading. Also, getting the back story of Azrael broke my heart all over again.
If you’re a fan of dark romance, you NEEEEEEED to read this series. Add it to your TBR, starting reading Lessons in Grey right now, and hopefully you’ll be caught up by the time this book is released!!!
I am not OK after reading this! This was an emotional read from beginning to end. My heart SHATTERED for everything Scarlett went through and the people at the end of the book (if you read it, you know what I’m talking about). But I loved Azrael’s chaos and how intense he was. I’ve been looking forward to Azrael’s books since The Writer He Haunted and it did not disappoint. Scarlett’s growth as a character kept me going and I’m SO excited for her revenge in the second book.
Despite how dark this was (seriously, read the trigger warnings even if you’re someone who normally skips them), this was SO beautifully written. Being in the minds of Azrael and Scarlett was a crazy experience, especially seeing how their characters changed throughout the book. You can literally feel their anger as you’re reading. Also, getting the back story of Azrael broke my heart all over again.
If you’re a fan of dark romance, you NEEEEEEED to read this series. Add it to your TBR, starting reading Lessons in Grey right now, and hopefully you’ll be caught up by the time this book is released!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
H.g Johnston has become a staple for me when it comes to DARK, twisted, and emotional. CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS because h.g Johnston doesn't go easy, her books pack a wicked punch that will leave you wondering if you're sane for reading them.
I've enjoyed all the brothers in the shadows of sin series, but I was always patiently waiting for Azraels story and it's finally here/coming!!
Just like Everett and Olivia, Azraels story will be a duet and I just finished book 1 of Azrael and Scarlet and wowza, it was intense for the first half so once again check your triggers.. this one is a slow burn but much needed when you read what scar goes though and honestly I'm so fricken proud of Azrael for it. Now when the burn comes, it's hot 🥵🔥 h.g knows how to write the spice 💦
Easily a 5 star read for me this will be a hard one to beat for sure. ❤️♠️♦️♣️
Tropes include but not limited to
MCs possessive of eachother
🩸 Play
Pain is pleasure
Slow burn
Cult-like setting
Eye contact 🫠
"You cannot pick and choose which parts of which religion you want to follow."
"I was marrying the sea. My ghost. The man who threatened to flood the world with his tsunami, protecting me from the waves."
"“Keep making those noises, Scarlett, and you will be my unraveling.” My head spun. That’s what I wanted. I wanted to be his complete undoing. I wanted him obsessed with me. I wanted him craving my touch every second of every day. I wanted him so consumed that he couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe, without me haunting his every thought."
"Married, and I still wanted him drunk on me. I wondered if I could make him more obsessed than he already was."
I've enjoyed all the brothers in the shadows of sin series, but I was always patiently waiting for Azraels story and it's finally here/coming!!
Just like Everett and Olivia, Azraels story will be a duet and I just finished book 1 of Azrael and Scarlet and wowza, it was intense for the first half so once again check your triggers.. this one is a slow burn but much needed when you read what scar goes though and honestly I'm so fricken proud of Azrael for it. Now when the burn comes, it's hot 🥵🔥 h.g knows how to write the spice 💦
Easily a 5 star read for me this will be a hard one to beat for sure. ❤️♠️♦️♣️
Tropes include but not limited to
MCs possessive of eachother
🩸 Play
Pain is pleasure
Slow burn
Cult-like setting
Eye contact 🫠
"You cannot pick and choose which parts of which religion you want to follow."
"I was marrying the sea. My ghost. The man who threatened to flood the world with his tsunami, protecting me from the waves."
"“Keep making those noises, Scarlett, and you will be my unraveling.” My head spun. That’s what I wanted. I wanted to be his complete undoing. I wanted him obsessed with me. I wanted him craving my touch every second of every day. I wanted him so consumed that he couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe, without me haunting his every thought."
"Married, and I still wanted him drunk on me. I wondered if I could make him more obsessed than he already was."
January 30, 2026
This is the first in the duet that finishes the Shadows of Sin series. Azrael’s story is definitely the darkest of them all so be sure to mind your triggers. Azrael is dark and craves violence, but the things Scarlett goes through her whole life is hard to read sometimes. I love the way Azrael tries to explain his relationship with Scarlett to himself but can’t see that he is absolutely falling in love with her in his own way. The Family has always been worried about him, but the way they immediately jump to the worst conclusion about him is irritating. I found myself saying “Just let him love her!” The beginning was a little slow for me because Azrael uses nicknames for everyone and I had forgotten who was who. Once I caught on and he started to interact with her, I couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait to see how everything ends!
January 29, 2026
Oh my god. I have been DYING for this book since book 4, and WOW I was not let down.
Azrael, is an absolutely beautiful psychotic masterpiece, and I’ve loved him since the very beginning of the series. To learn him, and see things from his view point? Chef’s kiss.
And our sweet girl Scarlett? Oh my heavens. To think things like this happen in the real world and not just in books is absolutely sickening. She’s such a broken soul, with strength no one should have to have, yet she does.
I am so excited to see what happens in book 6, when the series comes to a close!
“Blood, pain, cleansing the world. I’d do it all. Anything he wanted, anything in the world, so long as he kept doing this. So long as he called me his dirty little wh0re forever.”
Azrael, is an absolutely beautiful psychotic masterpiece, and I’ve loved him since the very beginning of the series. To learn him, and see things from his view point? Chef’s kiss.
And our sweet girl Scarlett? Oh my heavens. To think things like this happen in the real world and not just in books is absolutely sickening. She’s such a broken soul, with strength no one should have to have, yet she does.
I am so excited to see what happens in book 6, when the series comes to a close!
“Blood, pain, cleansing the world. I’d do it all. Anything he wanted, anything in the world, so long as he kept doing this. So long as he called me his dirty little wh0re forever.”
Read
January 30, 2026The Ghost and The Sinner by HG Johnston, book five in the Shadows of Sin series, is a unhinged and heart-wrenching read.
I have waited, what felt like AGES for Azrael's story and it did not disappoint. I was completely enthralled in his and Scarlett's build up. HG Johnston masterfully crafts both their tragic back stories, perfectly capturing their descent into madness. *tick tock tick tock tick tock*
Leaving off on a cliffhanger, to pick back up in The Puppeteer (book six) I cannot wait what our Queen of Hearts and her Hatter have up their sleeves.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in. This book is not for the faint-hearted. Your mental health matters. 🫶
I have waited, what felt like AGES for Azrael's story and it did not disappoint. I was completely enthralled in his and Scarlett's build up. HG Johnston masterfully crafts both their tragic back stories, perfectly capturing their descent into madness. *tick tock tick tock tick tock*
Leaving off on a cliffhanger, to pick back up in The Puppeteer (book six) I cannot wait what our Queen of Hearts and her Hatter have up their sleeves.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in. This book is not for the faint-hearted. Your mental health matters. 🫶
February 3, 2026
I knew Azrael's story would be worth the wait and this book did not disappoint in the slightest. Each book in the series has got darker and darker and we have continued in that pattern.
All of the brothers are dark and twisted but Azrael is by far the worst of them all. Despite how absolutely deranged he is, his morals are in the right place and he is the only one of the family broken enough to do what needs to be done.
Scarlett has spent her entire life being broken and controlled but little did they know rather than creating the perfect servant they were actually creating another Azrael and, once she is in his hands, her thirst for blood and revenge will rival his.
This book is perfect for fans of dark, mafia romances. The series is the darkest I have read so please make sure to check the triggers. This installment only has me even more obsessed with this series and I can't wait for the final book to see how it all ends.
All of the brothers are dark and twisted but Azrael is by far the worst of them all. Despite how absolutely deranged he is, his morals are in the right place and he is the only one of the family broken enough to do what needs to be done.
Scarlett has spent her entire life being broken and controlled but little did they know rather than creating the perfect servant they were actually creating another Azrael and, once she is in his hands, her thirst for blood and revenge will rival his.
This book is perfect for fans of dark, mafia romances. The series is the darkest I have read so please make sure to check the triggers. This installment only has me even more obsessed with this series and I can't wait for the final book to see how it all ends.
February 3, 2026
The Ghost and the Sinner is a good dark romance story.
It’s twisted, emotional, and completely gripping. Azrael and Scarlett’s chaotic minds pull you in right away.
They’re two of the most unhinged, damaged, and strangely human characters I’ve ever read, and their slow burn, obsessive connection kept me hooked from the start.
The first part of the book drops a lot of information, but it matters. We learn what Azrael has uncovered in his investigation and the truth behind Scarlett’s brutal past.
Once everything falls into place, the tension explodes. The religious trauma, the found family, the Wonderland style madness, the violence as intimacy moments. It all blends into the darkest book in the series so far.
Scarlett’s feminine rage is everything, and I’m dying to see her unleash it in part two.
If you love dark romance with heavy tension, morally black characters, and a bond that feels dangerous and inevitable, this book is a must read!
I can't wait for part 2!!
It’s twisted, emotional, and completely gripping. Azrael and Scarlett’s chaotic minds pull you in right away.
They’re two of the most unhinged, damaged, and strangely human characters I’ve ever read, and their slow burn, obsessive connection kept me hooked from the start.
The first part of the book drops a lot of information, but it matters. We learn what Azrael has uncovered in his investigation and the truth behind Scarlett’s brutal past.
Once everything falls into place, the tension explodes. The religious trauma, the found family, the Wonderland style madness, the violence as intimacy moments. It all blends into the darkest book in the series so far.
Scarlett’s feminine rage is everything, and I’m dying to see her unleash it in part two.
If you love dark romance with heavy tension, morally black characters, and a bond that feels dangerous and inevitable, this book is a must read!
I can't wait for part 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Ghost and The Sinner
Shadows of Sin Series Book 5
By H.G. Johnston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🗝A Secret Society Dark Romance
✝️Duet Book 1
🗝Dual POV
✝️Twisted Relig¡ous Cült
🗝Azrael is the MMC (IYKYK 😍🤤)
✝️FMC has been brought up in above mentioned environment.
Check your TWs
This book has left me speechless but in the best way! Its EVERYTHING I never new I needed, so much more than I could have dreamed up for Azrael. So perfectly HIM.
And the FMC? Such a perfect fit! I absolutely ate this book up, and its taken me this long to try and come up with words. I refuse to do my normal review for this, you need to read this series to understand BUT THIS IS EVERYTHING.
I need to dive headfirst into the next part.
That is all.
The Ghost and The Sinner releases February 3rd 😘🖤
Shadows of Sin Series Book 5
By H.G. Johnston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🗝A Secret Society Dark Romance
✝️Duet Book 1
🗝Dual POV
✝️Twisted Relig¡ous Cült
🗝Azrael is the MMC (IYKYK 😍🤤)
✝️FMC has been brought up in above mentioned environment.
Check your TWs
This book has left me speechless but in the best way! Its EVERYTHING I never new I needed, so much more than I could have dreamed up for Azrael. So perfectly HIM.
And the FMC? Such a perfect fit! I absolutely ate this book up, and its taken me this long to try and come up with words. I refuse to do my normal review for this, you need to read this series to understand BUT THIS IS EVERYTHING.
I need to dive headfirst into the next part.
That is all.
The Ghost and The Sinner releases February 3rd 😘🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
~ARC REVIEW~
This book has been long awaited! Definitely one of my most anticipated reads of 2026!
As with the other books in the series I must warn readers, these books are DARK. Think Hunting Adeline dark and maybe even darker still. The characters in these books are morally gray to morally black and things they go through are not easy to read about.
The reason I love dark romance so much is because there's a great deal of psychology to it. Unpacking and understanding the trauma of the characters how they overcome and become the way they are. And every story in this series utterly unique and the author stays true to her characters and how they grow and develop individually becoming the people they are in these final books.
One of the things I absolutely love about the series is that everything is on a timeline. HG Johnston has lined up each of her story with the corresponding dates of things that are happening in the other books.
These are not interconnected standalones but a series that gets darker with each book. And with how dark the first one is that's saying something! So, if you don't read the previous books, you won't have a fkn clue what's going on because Azrael's mind is not a place of sanity. So if you've never had a taste of it, you won't understand what the fk he's talking about.
Scarlett is very much a product of the trauma behind her upbringing. Her story is brutal. Scarlett having a very limited view of the world is a bit of an unreliable narrator here well also being an important source of information. She thinks she knows what's going on but constantly has to question herself and the world around her. It's only when Azrael is able to bring her into the light of his world that she is able to turn her religious trauma into righteous rage.
Azrael is every bit as insane as we all knew he'd be from the glimpses we got in the previous books. We finally get to know why here. We also get to see how calculated and meticulous he is. EVERYTHING has been leading up to this! I seriously cannot wait for the final book: The Puppeteer.
This book has been long awaited! Definitely one of my most anticipated reads of 2026!
As with the other books in the series I must warn readers, these books are DARK. Think Hunting Adeline dark and maybe even darker still. The characters in these books are morally gray to morally black and things they go through are not easy to read about.
The reason I love dark romance so much is because there's a great deal of psychology to it. Unpacking and understanding the trauma of the characters how they overcome and become the way they are. And every story in this series utterly unique and the author stays true to her characters and how they grow and develop individually becoming the people they are in these final books.
One of the things I absolutely love about the series is that everything is on a timeline. HG Johnston has lined up each of her story with the corresponding dates of things that are happening in the other books.
These are not interconnected standalones but a series that gets darker with each book. And with how dark the first one is that's saying something! So, if you don't read the previous books, you won't have a fkn clue what's going on because Azrael's mind is not a place of sanity. So if you've never had a taste of it, you won't understand what the fk he's talking about.
Scarlett is very much a product of the trauma behind her upbringing. Her story is brutal. Scarlett having a very limited view of the world is a bit of an unreliable narrator here well also being an important source of information. She thinks she knows what's going on but constantly has to question herself and the world around her. It's only when Azrael is able to bring her into the light of his world that she is able to turn her religious trauma into righteous rage.
Azrael is every bit as insane as we all knew he'd be from the glimpses we got in the previous books. We finally get to know why here. We also get to see how calculated and meticulous he is. EVERYTHING has been leading up to this! I seriously cannot wait for the final book: The Puppeteer.
January 23, 2026
Holy moly this book was an absolute roller coaster and it was definitely the darkest of all the books in the series, the story was the most powerful! I cannot wait for the second part of this book/the ending of this because the ending is going to be absolutely insane!!
Azrael’s mind is dark and depraved, but he works for good causes (even though he will never admit it) and saving Scarlett’s from this atrocious and abusive church and shutting down the church is good.. but he will never admit it 😂
Scarlett is an absolute warrior and survivor!! She is incredible and I’m so glad that Azrael found her when he did so she could survive and blossom!!
Thank you H.G. Johnston for an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and opinion.
Azrael’s mind is dark and depraved, but he works for good causes (even though he will never admit it) and saving Scarlett’s from this atrocious and abusive church and shutting down the church is good.. but he will never admit it 😂
Scarlett is an absolute warrior and survivor!! She is incredible and I’m so glad that Azrael found her when he did so she could survive and blossom!!
Thank you H.G. Johnston for an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and opinion.
February 3, 2026
WOW! Dark romance YES!! This book is so good ! I loved this from front to back. Loads of triggers, such intense vibes these mmcs are unhinged in all the ways, morally grey is speaking lightly. For all my dark readers you need this book!! All the stars and black hearts.
December 10, 2025
✨ BOOK REVIEW: The Ghost & The Sinner by H.G. Johnston ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / an easy 5-star vibe
Just finished The Ghost & The Sinner and OMG… I am absolutely feral for this book 😭🔥 H.G. Johnston NEVER misses. She’s one of my all-time fave authors and this story reminded me exactly why. The plot? Addicting. The tension? Off the charts. The characters? Living rent-free in my head forever.
From page one, this book had me locked IN. The chemistry was so electric it could’ve powered my entire house ⚡️🔥 The angst, the slow-burn moments, the delicious twists… I was kicking my feet, gasping, and whispering “one more chapter” until 3am. The emotional pull between the characters was so intense that I swear I could feel it. That perfect blend of romance + mystery + heartbreak + healing?? Chef’s kiss. 👩🍳💋✨
H.G. Johnston writes with that magical, cinematic touch that makes every scene feel alive. She delivers characters you root for, ache for, fall for… and refuse to let go of when the story ends. Ugh, I love her mind so much 😩❤️
I was gifted an ARC copy as part of her amazing ARC team, and being able to dive into this story early was truly a blessing 🙌💖 Getting to support an author I adore, especially with a book THIS good, is everything.
If you love:
🔥 haunting tension
💀 morally gray vibes
💘 soul-deep romance
🖤 a story that punches you in the feelings and hugs you after
…then RUN, don’t walk, to grab this book.
H.G. Johnston has done it again. And honestly? I’m still not over it.
#BookReview #BookTok #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #ARCReader #ARCReview #Hgjohnston #TheGhostAndTheSinner #MustRead #RomanceBooks #TrendingReads #BookObsessed #BookAddict #5StarRead #BookishVibes #BookRecommendations 📚✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / an easy 5-star vibe
Just finished The Ghost & The Sinner and OMG… I am absolutely feral for this book 😭🔥 H.G. Johnston NEVER misses. She’s one of my all-time fave authors and this story reminded me exactly why. The plot? Addicting. The tension? Off the charts. The characters? Living rent-free in my head forever.
From page one, this book had me locked IN. The chemistry was so electric it could’ve powered my entire house ⚡️🔥 The angst, the slow-burn moments, the delicious twists… I was kicking my feet, gasping, and whispering “one more chapter” until 3am. The emotional pull between the characters was so intense that I swear I could feel it. That perfect blend of romance + mystery + heartbreak + healing?? Chef’s kiss. 👩🍳💋✨
H.G. Johnston writes with that magical, cinematic touch that makes every scene feel alive. She delivers characters you root for, ache for, fall for… and refuse to let go of when the story ends. Ugh, I love her mind so much 😩❤️
I was gifted an ARC copy as part of her amazing ARC team, and being able to dive into this story early was truly a blessing 🙌💖 Getting to support an author I adore, especially with a book THIS good, is everything.
If you love:
🔥 haunting tension
💀 morally gray vibes
💘 soul-deep romance
🖤 a story that punches you in the feelings and hugs you after
…then RUN, don’t walk, to grab this book.
H.G. Johnston has done it again. And honestly? I’m still not over it.
#BookReview #BookTok #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #ARCReader #ARCReview #Hgjohnston #TheGhostAndTheSinner #MustRead #RomanceBooks #TrendingReads #BookObsessed #BookAddict #5StarRead #BookishVibes #BookRecommendations 📚✨
December 1, 2025
I have waited for Azrael for SO LONG! H.G. Johnston DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!!!! This book was everything I wanted and more.
The story was beautifully written. I've read this series from the beginning and loved Azrael since then. There were quite a few of us who were foaming at the mouth to finally read his story and to finally find out what kind of woman could possibly be his "Claim."
We meet Scarlett and I'm thinking, her? Honestly I shouldn't have questioned the author. She is PERFECT for him. I don't think anyone else would be able to handle Azrael. They are both vicious creatures trying to survive in a horrible world.
The world building started in the first one of the series and has only grown and gotten more amazing!
The story was beautifully written. I've read this series from the beginning and loved Azrael since then. There were quite a few of us who were foaming at the mouth to finally read his story and to finally find out what kind of woman could possibly be his "Claim."
We meet Scarlett and I'm thinking, her? Honestly I shouldn't have questioned the author. She is PERFECT for him. I don't think anyone else would be able to handle Azrael. They are both vicious creatures trying to survive in a horrible world.
The world building started in the first one of the series and has only grown and gotten more amazing!
November 28, 2025
absolutely amazing slow burn... the story is so intense and eye opening. absolutely amazing and dying for the next one. I NEED TO KNOW HOW IT ENDS.
November 27, 2025
I have waited for this sense book 1 and it did not disappoint!!! I'm so glad we got more insight into his past as well as now a better future for him I hope he stays just as maniacal as ever
November 12, 2025
I’ve been so excited for Azrael’s story and it’s everything I hoped it’d be so far!
Scarlett is so much stronger than everything she’s been forced to endure and I love that she’s growing more fully into herself.
They both have so much trauma and yet their interactions are so pure in a way.
Ahhh I love them and I can’t wait for more!!
I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Scarlett is so much stronger than everything she’s been forced to endure and I love that she’s growing more fully into herself.
They both have so much trauma and yet their interactions are so pure in a way.
Ahhh I love them and I can’t wait for more!!
I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
December 10, 2025
H.G gave all the vibes with this
ouu this was absolutely great took a couple chapters to get into but once things started tonpick up I was fully committed and couldn't put it down. Azrael is a totally red flag walking, no remorse an absolute no hold backs, the way this man is will crush you in the best way!.
please read the Triggers
⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟¾/5
🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩/5
ouu this was absolutely great took a couple chapters to get into but once things started tonpick up I was fully committed and couldn't put it down. Azrael is a totally red flag walking, no remorse an absolute no hold backs, the way this man is will crush you in the best way!.
please read the Triggers
⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟¾/5
🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩/5
November 15, 2025
ARC Review 🫦
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A haunting, beautifully deranged fairytale of liberation, devotion, and the quiet rage of a girl finally waking up.
The Ghost and the Sinner swept me straight into a nightmare dressed as Wonderland, and I loved every minute of it. Scarlett’s world—ruled by the cruel, holy-washed grip of the Church of Daylight—is suffocating from page one. Her stolen voice, her forced obedience, her place as the pastor’s “Favorite”…every detail is chilling, purposeful, and heartbreakingly real. The only light she has is the tattered copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland they allow her to read, not knowing it’s planting the seeds of rebellion.
Enter Azrael. Her Ghost. Her Hatter. Her impossible door out.
The moment his eyes land on Scarlett, everything shifts. What begins as his controlled, precise mission becomes something raw, feral, and deeply emotional. He doesn’t just show her freedom—he shows her power. In his world, she’s not a possession to be claimed, but a Queen of Hearts, sharp and dangerous and allowed to want.
Their connection is electric. Dark. Tender in the way only two broken creatures recognizing each other can be. Scarlett’s awakening—her rage, her courage, her longing—is breathtaking to watch. And Azrael? He’s the perfect monster-turned-devoted-savior, stepping right over the line from calculated rescuer to obsessed protector.
This book is perfect for readers who crave:
❤️🔥 cult escape stories laced with gothic wonderland magic
❤️🔥 obsessive MMCs who fall first and hardest
❤️🔥 heroines discovering the power they were taught to fear
❤️🔥 lush, symbolic writing that feels like poetry dipped in blood
❤️🔥 a romance both feral and fate-touched
It’s unsettling, empowering, romantic in its darkest corners—and utterly intoxicating. A story about finding your voice, even when the world has tried to silence you. A story about choosing your own Wonderland, even if it burns the one they built.
Absolutely unforgettable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A haunting, beautifully deranged fairytale of liberation, devotion, and the quiet rage of a girl finally waking up.
The Ghost and the Sinner swept me straight into a nightmare dressed as Wonderland, and I loved every minute of it. Scarlett’s world—ruled by the cruel, holy-washed grip of the Church of Daylight—is suffocating from page one. Her stolen voice, her forced obedience, her place as the pastor’s “Favorite”…every detail is chilling, purposeful, and heartbreakingly real. The only light she has is the tattered copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland they allow her to read, not knowing it’s planting the seeds of rebellion.
Enter Azrael. Her Ghost. Her Hatter. Her impossible door out.
The moment his eyes land on Scarlett, everything shifts. What begins as his controlled, precise mission becomes something raw, feral, and deeply emotional. He doesn’t just show her freedom—he shows her power. In his world, she’s not a possession to be claimed, but a Queen of Hearts, sharp and dangerous and allowed to want.
Their connection is electric. Dark. Tender in the way only two broken creatures recognizing each other can be. Scarlett’s awakening—her rage, her courage, her longing—is breathtaking to watch. And Azrael? He’s the perfect monster-turned-devoted-savior, stepping right over the line from calculated rescuer to obsessed protector.
This book is perfect for readers who crave:
❤️🔥 cult escape stories laced with gothic wonderland magic
❤️🔥 obsessive MMCs who fall first and hardest
❤️🔥 heroines discovering the power they were taught to fear
❤️🔥 lush, symbolic writing that feels like poetry dipped in blood
❤️🔥 a romance both feral and fate-touched
It’s unsettling, empowering, romantic in its darkest corners—and utterly intoxicating. A story about finding your voice, even when the world has tried to silence you. A story about choosing your own Wonderland, even if it burns the one they built.
Absolutely unforgettable.
February 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was easily one of the darkest installments in the Shadow of Sin series but considering it’s Azrael’s story, I truly expected nothing less. H.G. Johnston has a real talent for writing unapologetically dark, emotionally intense stories, and this one does not hold back.
I loved this book, even though it took me a little longer to work through. The writing is layered with riddles and heavy metaphors, which makes it feel almost poetic at times. It demands your attention; you can’t just skim it, but that depth adds so much to the experience. The style perfectly reflects Azrael’s fractured, unhinged mindset and pulls you deeper into his darkness.
This isn’t an easy read, but it’s a powerful one. Just make sure you check the trigger warnings beforehand, as there are several sensitive themes explored throughout.
“I didn’t feel any pain or anger. I didn’t feel happiness or sadness. I felt nothing. Just how they liked it.”
“The little sinner and the Devil’s ghost that haunts this church.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was easily one of the darkest installments in the Shadow of Sin series but considering it’s Azrael’s story, I truly expected nothing less. H.G. Johnston has a real talent for writing unapologetically dark, emotionally intense stories, and this one does not hold back.
I loved this book, even though it took me a little longer to work through. The writing is layered with riddles and heavy metaphors, which makes it feel almost poetic at times. It demands your attention; you can’t just skim it, but that depth adds so much to the experience. The style perfectly reflects Azrael’s fractured, unhinged mindset and pulls you deeper into his darkness.
This isn’t an easy read, but it’s a powerful one. Just make sure you check the trigger warnings beforehand, as there are several sensitive themes explored throughout.
“I didn’t feel any pain or anger. I didn’t feel happiness or sadness. I felt nothing. Just how they liked it.”
“The little sinner and the Devil’s ghost that haunts this church.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Ghost and the Sinner by HG Johnston
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
It is no surprise to anyone how much I love this series! I can’t believe we are on the last duet! Hannah’s plot has thickened and will soon come to fruition. I ADORE Azreal’s crazy and the sinner he has chosen.
I just know the last book and second half of his duet will be filled with lust and blood (maybe together 😉).
I am dying to learn all of the secrets that have been building up the entire series!!
They are a close second to my beloved Writer and Heir… a very close second.
This is the darkest of the series which Hannah did warn everyone about.
There are MANY triggers in this one specifically including and not limited to, religious trauma and abuse, sexual assault (and a lot of it), and many dark kinks. That’s just the tip of the iceberg in this one.
Thank you for the ARC, Hannah! I am so blessed (haha) to be on your Team!
November 17, 2025
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1st part in the duet and it hit me hard..
Azreal and Scarlette collide like shadows and sparks—
The slow-burn is beautifully messy, and fighting feelings neither of them is ready for, because neither of them knows what to do with something that feels like hope. Their chemistry is dark, chaotic, and unforgettable, two broken souls who fit together in the most haunting, tender way.
Azreal’s dangerous intensity and Scarlette’s quiet strength make their connection feel inevitable, two people who recognize the same kind of pain in each other… it’s heartbreaking in the best way.
Eerie, emotional, beautiful, unforgettable, and I can't wait for the next one!
If you enjoy dark romances this one is absolutely worth picking up, please check the TW.
Provided an e-ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
1st part in the duet and it hit me hard..
Azreal and Scarlette collide like shadows and sparks—
The slow-burn is beautifully messy, and fighting feelings neither of them is ready for, because neither of them knows what to do with something that feels like hope. Their chemistry is dark, chaotic, and unforgettable, two broken souls who fit together in the most haunting, tender way.
Azreal’s dangerous intensity and Scarlette’s quiet strength make their connection feel inevitable, two people who recognize the same kind of pain in each other… it’s heartbreaking in the best way.
Eerie, emotional, beautiful, unforgettable, and I can't wait for the next one!
If you enjoy dark romances this one is absolutely worth picking up, please check the TW.
Provided an e-ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Ghost & The Sinner is the 5th installment in the Shadows of Sin series. It’s a slow burn with dark themes and sex trafficking through religion. Azrael Thorin has taken a ‘transporting’ job at the Church of Daylight so he can destroy them from the inside. Along the way he becomes fascinated with the Church’s “blessed one” Scarlett Harris. Scarlett has been betrothed to the Pastor’s son since she was 9 years old and is not allowed to speak, look up, or do anything other than what she’s been told. Torn between using Scarlett for information or letting her burn with the rest of the Church, Azrael must decide and fast because “Tick tock goes the clock.” I loved everything about this book. The chemistry between Azrael and Scarlett is electrifying! Azrael’s dark, deranged demeanor and riddles never disappoint! The Ghost & The Sinner leaves off on a cliffhanger, however this is just the first book in Azrael and Scarlett’s duet.
November 30, 2025
This author never cease is to amaze me with her beautifully twisted, dark, unhinged did I say dark.. mind she truly is one of a kind.
This book is a retelling of Alice in wonderland but so twisted ugh I loved every minute of this book.
Scarlet and Azrael are both dark, twisted, and broken but together they can be all those things together.
Now be warned this book is dark and has dark themes. So check all that before you step in to this world. But from my POV you want be disappointed you'll love every minute in this wonderland.
This book is a retelling of Alice in wonderland but so twisted ugh I loved every minute of this book.
Scarlet and Azrael are both dark, twisted, and broken but together they can be all those things together.
Now be warned this book is dark and has dark themes. So check all that before you step in to this world. But from my POV you want be disappointed you'll love every minute in this wonderland.
February 10, 2026
Shadow of Sins is definitely one of my favourite series and I tell you what, HG Johnston did not disappoint with this addition!
The Ghost and the Sinner gave me tingles from head to toe, I could not put this book down!
This story was addictive, and seriously the definition of dark romance.
Azrael’s story is emotional, twisted, chaotic and definitely on the darker side of this series, but I absolutely loved it!
I’m so excited to see more in the next part of this duet and I 100% recommend this book and entire series to all dark romance lovers.
The Ghost and the Sinner gave me tingles from head to toe, I could not put this book down!
This story was addictive, and seriously the definition of dark romance.
Azrael’s story is emotional, twisted, chaotic and definitely on the darker side of this series, but I absolutely loved it!
I’m so excited to see more in the next part of this duet and I 100% recommend this book and entire series to all dark romance lovers.
February 3, 2026
Looking for a dark, dark romance with Alice in Wonderland Vibes? This book is what you're looking for. Please check your triggers before you read this though. Azreal and Scarlet's story was packed with action, revenge, spice (after the slowest burn ever!) and that's just scratching the surface of what else is in this book. I want to write so much more but I don't do reviews with spoilers and if I keep typing I will spoil it.
February 11, 2026
Please check trigger warnings for this book.
This book is part one in The Shadows of Sin duet, which shows feminine rage it has an amazing power couple that has a slow burn build up but has you hooked from the start and watching their story unfold was very well written. I enjoyed the plot and the spice. The mmc is Azrael who is a dark god and Scarlett is the fmc who went through a lot so she has some pent up rage and I hope to see her unless the beast in part 2 of this story.
This book is part one in The Shadows of Sin duet, which shows feminine rage it has an amazing power couple that has a slow burn build up but has you hooked from the start and watching their story unfold was very well written. I enjoyed the plot and the spice. The mmc is Azrael who is a dark god and Scarlett is the fmc who went through a lot so she has some pent up rage and I hope to see her unless the beast in part 2 of this story.
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