What do you think?
The Broken Devotion Duet #2
Poison Petals
Bleed if you need to.
Break if you must.
Just don’t leave.
She left.
She walked out of that hotel room like what we shared could be forgotten with the door clicking shut behind her.
Bold move.
Wrong move.
Because now I’m starving in a way I didn’t know was possible, and I don’t intend to lose her again, no matter how hard she fights me.
She thinks pushing me away will save her.
It won’t.
It just gives me something to push back against.
** Book two in the Broken Devotion duet and must be read after Velvet Thorns - please check TW's **
Break if you must.
Just don’t leave.
She left.
She walked out of that hotel room like what we shared could be forgotten with the door clicking shut behind her.
Bold move.
Wrong move.
Because now I’m starving in a way I didn’t know was possible, and I don’t intend to lose her again, no matter how hard she fights me.
She thinks pushing me away will save her.
It won’t.
It just gives me something to push back against.
** Book two in the Broken Devotion duet and must be read after Velvet Thorns - please check TW's **
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
March 8, 2026
5⭐️|3🌶️
Lea Rose truly writes some of the most addicting books and devoured this one!
After the cliffhanger at the end of Velvet Thorns, I was desperate for more & this book delivered everything I wanted and then some. Phoenix Cassidy is toptier book boyfriend material…MY GODDDD THIS MAN!!!! The way he is so obsessive & possessive over Shannen, the way he yearns for her????I was unwell 😭
You can feel how deeply he loves her in every moment, like it’s literally written into every fiber of who he is & as a reader I felt that love so intensely it genuinely made me emotional🥹Shannen had so many walls built up around her & watching them slowly come down and let Phoenix back in was everything. These two were absolutely soulmates.
All the freaking stars for this duet. Thank you so much Lea Rose for the ARC🩷
Lea Rose truly writes some of the most addicting books and devoured this one!
After the cliffhanger at the end of Velvet Thorns, I was desperate for more & this book delivered everything I wanted and then some. Phoenix Cassidy is toptier book boyfriend material…MY GODDDD THIS MAN!!!! The way he is so obsessive & possessive over Shannen, the way he yearns for her????I was unwell 😭
You can feel how deeply he loves her in every moment, like it’s literally written into every fiber of who he is & as a reader I felt that love so intensely it genuinely made me emotional🥹Shannen had so many walls built up around her & watching them slowly come down and let Phoenix back in was everything. These two were absolutely soulmates.
All the freaking stars for this duet. Thank you so much Lea Rose for the ARC🩷
September 7, 2026
this was fun!
This man was OBSESSED. If you look up the definition for the word this book will come up. The plot wasn’t anything crazy but he kept me entertained with the things he would do. The fmc’s friend was also a catch! Wish i had more of her.
This man was OBSESSED. If you look up the definition for the word this book will come up. The plot wasn’t anything crazy but he kept me entertained with the things he would do. The fmc’s friend was also a catch! Wish i had more of her.
September 21, 2026
Oh sweet baby Phoenix. I loved everything about this story. Second chance always gets me in my feels. The ending though- really Lea you just pressed the knife even further into my heart with that! I recommend if you like second chance, first love, stalker tendencies (like crazy stalker for 10 years) virgin MMC and all the feels.
February 26, 2026
ARC Review
Still not over this one. Poison Petals was so worth the wait. Ever since that cliff-hanger at the end of Velvet Thorns, I’ve been counting down for this release—and I’m happy to report it did not disappoint. Poison Petals picks up right where we left off and dives deeper into the dark, seductive world Lea has created.
The tension between Phoenix and Shannen is absolute perfection and once she starts to understand the depth of his obsession now, she knows he’s not going anywhere. And instead of shrinking, she pushes back and challenges him. The chemistry is explosive. Her eventual surrender? Delicious agony.
Phoenix… yeah. I’m not okay. He’s earned a permanent, non-negotiable spot in my top-tier book boyfriend lineup. He is catastrophically obsessed, and unwaveringly devoted to Shannen. And Shannen, she is pure fire and fury. She starts off guarded, furious, heartbroken but watching her slowly bring down her walls and open back up to Phoenix was everything. Their relationship is messy, volatile, and beautiful. Shoutout to Lianna, Lucien and Cain, I need more. Immediately! I’ve actually decided I want to be Lianna when I grow up! This book had me smiling like an idiot one minute, blushing hard the next and hen there were times my jaw was on the floor but what I didn’t expect was to be sobbing - Lea you reached into my heart and pulled every emotion out with this one!
The ending ruined me in the most beautiful way. I still keep thinking about it. This is not surface-level romance. It consumes you. If the first book hooked you, this one takes everything and cranks it up—the obsession, the devotion, the intensity, the stakes. It’s relentless and unapologetic in its pursuit of a love that refuses to be quiet or sensible. Would I give it more than five stars if I could? Without hesitation.
Still not over this one. Poison Petals was so worth the wait. Ever since that cliff-hanger at the end of Velvet Thorns, I’ve been counting down for this release—and I’m happy to report it did not disappoint. Poison Petals picks up right where we left off and dives deeper into the dark, seductive world Lea has created.
The tension between Phoenix and Shannen is absolute perfection and once she starts to understand the depth of his obsession now, she knows he’s not going anywhere. And instead of shrinking, she pushes back and challenges him. The chemistry is explosive. Her eventual surrender? Delicious agony.
Phoenix… yeah. I’m not okay. He’s earned a permanent, non-negotiable spot in my top-tier book boyfriend lineup. He is catastrophically obsessed, and unwaveringly devoted to Shannen. And Shannen, she is pure fire and fury. She starts off guarded, furious, heartbroken but watching her slowly bring down her walls and open back up to Phoenix was everything. Their relationship is messy, volatile, and beautiful. Shoutout to Lianna, Lucien and Cain, I need more. Immediately! I’ve actually decided I want to be Lianna when I grow up! This book had me smiling like an idiot one minute, blushing hard the next and hen there were times my jaw was on the floor but what I didn’t expect was to be sobbing - Lea you reached into my heart and pulled every emotion out with this one!
The ending ruined me in the most beautiful way. I still keep thinking about it. This is not surface-level romance. It consumes you. If the first book hooked you, this one takes everything and cranks it up—the obsession, the devotion, the intensity, the stakes. It’s relentless and unapologetic in its pursuit of a love that refuses to be quiet or sensible. Would I give it more than five stars if I could? Without hesitation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ᴅᴀɴɢᴇʀᴏᴜꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ᴜɴʜɪɴɢᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇᴛᴇʟʏ ꜰᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴀᴜᴛɪꜰᴜʟ.
Is there a better way to describe Pheonix? Absolutely not 🙌🏼 He’s permanently secured real estate in my top-tier book boyfriend hall of fame.
Morally grey (and that’s generous), this man lurks, protects, retaliates, and has been quietly orbiting her world for a decade. And for anyone thats hurt her... well lets just say he isn't shy about righting wrongs 💀
Meanwhile, Shannen has rebuilt herself from the wreckage, carved out her own empire, and still can’t quite outrun her first love.
Is this relationship healthy? Not even remotely. Is it addictive? Completely.
It’s messy. It’s feral. It’s all-consuming. The obsession, the devotion, the shared scars. I ate up every second of it.
I knew this book would wreck me after the first one, but I was wildly underprepared. The tension? Suffocating. The chemistry? Off the charts. The banter? Elite. And that ending? I’m still staring at a wall trying to process it.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒙 𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒚.”
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐𝒐, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘?”
Thank you so much Lea for the ARC of this. You have truly outdone yourself and you should be incredibly proud of the masterpiece that is the Broken Devotion Duet 🖤
.
.
.
coming back with a full review soon... just know that no matter what you tell yourself... you are not ready to be ruined by Pheonix Cassidy.
Is there a better way to describe Pheonix? Absolutely not 🙌🏼 He’s permanently secured real estate in my top-tier book boyfriend hall of fame.
Morally grey (and that’s generous), this man lurks, protects, retaliates, and has been quietly orbiting her world for a decade. And for anyone thats hurt her... well lets just say he isn't shy about righting wrongs 💀
Meanwhile, Shannen has rebuilt herself from the wreckage, carved out her own empire, and still can’t quite outrun her first love.
Is this relationship healthy? Not even remotely. Is it addictive? Completely.
It’s messy. It’s feral. It’s all-consuming. The obsession, the devotion, the shared scars. I ate up every second of it.
I knew this book would wreck me after the first one, but I was wildly underprepared. The tension? Suffocating. The chemistry? Off the charts. The banter? Elite. And that ending? I’m still staring at a wall trying to process it.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒙 𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒚.”
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐𝒐, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘?”
Thank you so much Lea for the ARC of this. You have truly outdone yourself and you should be incredibly proud of the masterpiece that is the Broken Devotion Duet 🖤
.
.
.
coming back with a full review soon... just know that no matter what you tell yourself... you are not ready to be ruined by Pheonix Cassidy.
September 17, 2026
3.5 🌟
Okay, so I kind of lost interest after the 65% mark... hence the rating—with that being said, Phoenix, my obsessive, psychopathic baby!!! I don’t think I’ve ever been so invested in someone’s losing his V-card as I was with his.😅 When he finally lost it?! I did a little happy dance—don’t judge me!!
And poor Shannen —let’s face it, she didn’t stand a chance against him; she was bound to fall for him because he is beyond determined. As I mentioned earlier, up until the 65% mark, I found myself cracking up at the sheer madness that is Phoenix and loving every single moment of it; he’s definitely made it onto my list of favorite psychopaths.
And the insane romantic shit that came out of his mouth?!?!? I can’t even!!!
And let’s not forget Lianna!!! Hahaha, she was hilarious—she’s just batshit crazy.
“So on my way over, I was looking up different words for squirting, so next time it happens, you don’t feel so weird about it. Even though I will always use the word squirt.” I start laughing as she pulls out her phone. “Okay, so we’ve got ‘ejaculate,’ but that sounds like something a doctor would say. How about gushing? ‘He made you gush?’” She barks out a laugh before continuing, “Then we had some more technical shit like ‘orgasmic expulsion,’ but what the hell is that? Oh, and then—then—” She gags dramatically. “I saw ‘love juice’ and started dry heaving, so I had to close the entire fucking tab.” 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Overall, this duet was very enjoyable!
PS
I would love to get a Lianna's book with the twins🤭
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Put me in a room full of strangers, kill the lights, blindfold me, tie my hands behind my back, and spin me around in a fucking circle—it wouldn't matter. I'd find her every single time.
I'd fuck anything she offered at this point—her, her hand, her attitude, even the barrel of a shotgun if she shoved it against my cock and promised to pull the trigger. At least then I'd come with her name in my mouth and blood in my lungs—evidence I was hers in the most final way possible. Pretty romantic, right? But it's fine. Baby steps.
"Maybe it's a little unhealthy by society's standards, but if I'm not obsessed with the woman I'm in love with, if I'm not willing to ruin my life and everyone else's for her, then what the fuck's the point of any of this?"
"And baby? You threatening to choke me with this cunt isn't a threat. It's my fucking wet dream, and I'll happily die right here. Just promise you'll make it messy."
Sex is a weird thing though. People turn it into a milestone or a chore—something to give away or get out of the way. Not me. Mine was always hers. I didn't save it for a moment. I saved it for my soulmate—the only woman I was ever going to be inside, no matter how long it took us to get here.
Okay, so I kind of lost interest after the 65% mark... hence the rating—with that being said, Phoenix, my obsessive, psychopathic baby!!! I don’t think I’ve ever been so invested in someone’s losing his V-card as I was with his.😅 When he finally lost it?! I did a little happy dance—don’t judge me!!
And poor Shannen —let’s face it, she didn’t stand a chance against him; she was bound to fall for him because he is beyond determined. As I mentioned earlier, up until the 65% mark, I found myself cracking up at the sheer madness that is Phoenix and loving every single moment of it; he’s definitely made it onto my list of favorite psychopaths.
And the insane romantic shit that came out of his mouth?!?!? I can’t even!!!
And let’s not forget Lianna!!! Hahaha, she was hilarious—she’s just batshit crazy.
“So on my way over, I was looking up different words for squirting, so next time it happens, you don’t feel so weird about it. Even though I will always use the word squirt.” I start laughing as she pulls out her phone. “Okay, so we’ve got ‘ejaculate,’ but that sounds like something a doctor would say. How about gushing? ‘He made you gush?’” She barks out a laugh before continuing, “Then we had some more technical shit like ‘orgasmic expulsion,’ but what the hell is that? Oh, and then—then—” She gags dramatically. “I saw ‘love juice’ and started dry heaving, so I had to close the entire fucking tab.” 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Overall, this duet was very enjoyable!
PS
I would love to get a Lianna's book with the twins🤭
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Put me in a room full of strangers, kill the lights, blindfold me, tie my hands behind my back, and spin me around in a fucking circle—it wouldn't matter. I'd find her every single time.
I'd fuck anything she offered at this point—her, her hand, her attitude, even the barrel of a shotgun if she shoved it against my cock and promised to pull the trigger. At least then I'd come with her name in my mouth and blood in my lungs—evidence I was hers in the most final way possible. Pretty romantic, right? But it's fine. Baby steps.
"Maybe it's a little unhealthy by society's standards, but if I'm not obsessed with the woman I'm in love with, if I'm not willing to ruin my life and everyone else's for her, then what the fuck's the point of any of this?"
"And baby? You threatening to choke me with this cunt isn't a threat. It's my fucking wet dream, and I'll happily die right here. Just promise you'll make it messy."
Sex is a weird thing though. People turn it into a milestone or a chore—something to give away or get out of the way. Not me. Mine was always hers. I didn't save it for a moment. I saved it for my soulmate—the only woman I was ever going to be inside, no matter how long it took us to get here.
April 16, 2026
To all of my fellow dark romance fans, if you love a MMC on the dark side with a side of being absolutely love struck, a FMC who is a bit feral, best friends that are the fierce found family that dreams are made of, a best friend who yells requests at Alexa like it's a real person, EPIC one liners and an ending that will positively hit you right in the feels......please give this duet a read!
February 26, 2026
Release Date - 1st March
“Dangerous and unhinged and completely fucking beautiful “ - the best quote to sum up this duet!
“Bleed if you need to. Break if you must . Just don’t leave”
This book was SO MUCH MORE! I was shown the painful past of Shannen & Phoenix . This made me understand their deep connection and why they had grown up to be who they are .
Phoenix was unhinged yes.. BUT
Did he love Shannen? Yes!
Did he stalk to protect her ? Yes!
Would he kill for her? Don’t ask him twice !
Was the cameras in her home necessary ? Of course !
Did he mutilate his skin in the name of love ? Swoon worth moment I guess !
Our red flag man was just a romantic soul . Their connection was dangerous . A love so destructive. A love that could destroy eachother
I DEVOURED THIS BOOK.. That ending !! Why did you do that to me 😭😭😭 The way I highlighted practically EVERY word in epilogue 2!
YOU BROKE ME ! I. AM. NOT. OKAY! I repeat .. I . AM . NOT. OKAY!!!! “I love you, Phoenix Cassidy.” “I love you too, but can you please tell me again tomorrow?” Whyyyyyy Lea ! Why?!!!! Just stab me in the heart next time. I did text my sister for moral support ! I needed it !
“ Forever and hereafter. Just like I promised.”😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Their story was beautiful . Devastating. A must read !
I am in awe in your ability as an author ! The way you captured their story beautifully and made me feel and see everything from their eyes and heart. I felt the rage , the passion , the desperation , the love .. I FELT IT ALL! I’m so proud of you! Another amazing book that will be loved !!
Also, I know I’m being greedy but I definitely need a book for Cain, Lucien and Lianna. Their banter was top tier !
✨ Thank you Lea Rose for this advance reader copy in return for an honest review . I love being on your unhinged street team✨
“Dangerous and unhinged and completely fucking beautiful “ - the best quote to sum up this duet!
“Bleed if you need to. Break if you must . Just don’t leave”
This book was SO MUCH MORE! I was shown the painful past of Shannen & Phoenix . This made me understand their deep connection and why they had grown up to be who they are .
Phoenix was unhinged yes.. BUT
Did he love Shannen? Yes!
Did he stalk to protect her ? Yes!
Would he kill for her? Don’t ask him twice !
Was the cameras in her home necessary ? Of course !
Did he mutilate his skin in the name of love ? Swoon worth moment I guess !
Our red flag man was just a romantic soul . Their connection was dangerous . A love so destructive. A love that could destroy eachother
I DEVOURED THIS BOOK.. That ending !! Why did you do that to me 😭😭😭 The way I highlighted practically EVERY word in epilogue 2!
YOU BROKE ME ! I. AM. NOT. OKAY! I repeat .. I . AM . NOT. OKAY!!!! “I love you, Phoenix Cassidy.” “I love you too, but can you please tell me again tomorrow?” Whyyyyyy Lea ! Why?!!!! Just stab me in the heart next time. I did text my sister for moral support ! I needed it !
“ Forever and hereafter. Just like I promised.”😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Their story was beautiful . Devastating. A must read !
I am in awe in your ability as an author ! The way you captured their story beautifully and made me feel and see everything from their eyes and heart. I felt the rage , the passion , the desperation , the love .. I FELT IT ALL! I’m so proud of you! Another amazing book that will be loved !!
Also, I know I’m being greedy but I definitely need a book for Cain, Lucien and Lianna. Their banter was top tier !
✨ Thank you Lea Rose for this advance reader copy in return for an honest review . I love being on your unhinged street team✨
March 7, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
I love when a dark romance character is so much more I love when a dark romance character is so much more than just being morally grey. Phoenix is full of emotion that he can’t contain any longer. He’s been biding his time, hiding in the shadows but since the school reunion, he can finally be free to bring Shannen into his all consuming obsession and darkness.
He has so many red flags with a smattering of green where it matters.
When Shannen can’t deny her feelings any longer she is just as unhinged and deeply captivated by everything that Phoenix is.
They are each others ride or die. They have an unhealthy fixation on each other. They can’t be apart even for a brief moment. And you know what? I love it.
And the spice? The chemistry sets the page on fire!
Phoenix being a virgin at 28 may seem unrealistic but it fits his character perfectly. It is very well written and you can feel how deep his obsession runs. He would never be with anyone but Shannen. Period.
The epilogue. Are you trying to kill me? Lea played dirty with my heart .
I hope we get a story about Lucien and Cain, because I love their level of unhinged and it would be a travesty not to read their book. So you know, hint, hint 😉
If you love dark romance with a stalker who makes everyone fear him but is only vulnerable with her. Then you 💯 need to read this duet. Don’t forget to read book 1 - Velvet Thorns first!
I love when a dark romance character is so much more I love when a dark romance character is so much more than just being morally grey. Phoenix is full of emotion that he can’t contain any longer. He’s been biding his time, hiding in the shadows but since the school reunion, he can finally be free to bring Shannen into his all consuming obsession and darkness.
He has so many red flags with a smattering of green where it matters.
When Shannen can’t deny her feelings any longer she is just as unhinged and deeply captivated by everything that Phoenix is.
They are each others ride or die. They have an unhealthy fixation on each other. They can’t be apart even for a brief moment. And you know what? I love it.
And the spice? The chemistry sets the page on fire!
Phoenix being a virgin at 28 may seem unrealistic but it fits his character perfectly. It is very well written and you can feel how deep his obsession runs. He would never be with anyone but Shannen. Period.
The epilogue. Are you trying to kill me? Lea played dirty with my heart .
I hope we get a story about Lucien and Cain, because I love their level of unhinged and it would be a travesty not to read their book. So you know, hint, hint 😉
If you love dark romance with a stalker who makes everyone fear him but is only vulnerable with her. Then you 💯 need to read this duet. Don’t forget to read book 1 - Velvet Thorns first!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolute show stopper of a book. I was already in love with Pheonix Cassidy from Velvet Thorns and felt like I have waited a lifetime for the rest of his and Shannen's story.
I will never get enough of these two and their obsessive, possessive, toxic love.
Our Pheonix, he's got some issues, he's a little bit traumatised, causing some questionable stalker tendencies, for the sake of protecting his woman and I have so here for it!!
Shannen, she fought her demons, overcame them, then went back to play with the devil!
I absolutely love the additional characters in this book and really hope we get a spin off! it was great to hear more about Lianna and girl is she my spirit animal.
The epilogue broke my damn heart, so prepare for a final tear jerker at the end 😭 still a HEA, but just a wee bit emotional at the end.
Hats off to Lea again, another fabulous book from you and I really hope you write more dark romances 💖
I will never get enough of these two and their obsessive, possessive, toxic love.
Our Pheonix, he's got some issues, he's a little bit traumatised, causing some questionable stalker tendencies, for the sake of protecting his woman and I have so here for it!!
Shannen, she fought her demons, overcame them, then went back to play with the devil!
I absolutely love the additional characters in this book and really hope we get a spin off! it was great to hear more about Lianna and girl is she my spirit animal.
The epilogue broke my damn heart, so prepare for a final tear jerker at the end 😭 still a HEA, but just a wee bit emotional at the end.
Hats off to Lea again, another fabulous book from you and I really hope you write more dark romances 💖
March 12, 2026
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
This was SO GOOD!!!!! An absolute delight of an unhinged morally grey possessive & obsessive MMC and a feisty badass FMC who becomes just as possessive!
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 stalker
🖤 secret tattoos
🖤 virgin MMC
I truly can’t recommend this duet enough. I was CACKLING, my jaw was on the floor (in shock and sometimes horror 😂) and I even cried 🥺.
Seriously, if you love dark romance, this is a duet you must add to your TBR.
Phoenix Cassidy… the man that you are 👏🏼🥵
Also… the whiplash between epilogue 1 and 2… IYKYK 😅
This was SO GOOD!!!!! An absolute delight of an unhinged morally grey possessive & obsessive MMC and a feisty badass FMC who becomes just as possessive!
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 stalker
🖤 secret tattoos
🖤 virgin MMC
I truly can’t recommend this duet enough. I was CACKLING, my jaw was on the floor (in shock and sometimes horror 😂) and I even cried 🥺.
Seriously, if you love dark romance, this is a duet you must add to your TBR.
Phoenix Cassidy… the man that you are 👏🏼🥵
Also… the whiplash between epilogue 1 and 2… IYKYK 😅
July 2, 2026
2.75 🌟
I quite enjoyed the first book in this duet, but tbh I lost interest around the 68% mark, once they got together. that doesn't usually happen to me, I'm all for a honeymoon phase, but I just felt... bored. it was all these smut scenes that weren't grabbing my attention and a bit of plot that wasn't plotting enough
I gotta say that I was intrigued by the FMC's bestie meeting the MMC's besties. was that a mmf in the making? color me intrigued 👀
I quite enjoyed the first book in this duet, but tbh I lost interest around the 68% mark, once they got together. that doesn't usually happen to me, I'm all for a honeymoon phase, but I just felt... bored. it was all these smut scenes that weren't grabbing my attention and a bit of plot that wasn't plotting enough
I gotta say that I was intrigued by the FMC's bestie meeting the MMC's besties. was that a mmf in the making? color me intrigued 👀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️'s
Poison Petals is book two in the Broken Devotion duet, and it delivers a dark, obsessive, emotionally volatile reunion that absolutely does not play by the rules.
Ten years after high school, Shannen and Phoenix are forced back into each other’s orbit. Once best friends, now something far more dangerous. Shannen wants to tear the skin from him — one hatred-fuelled claw mark at a time. Phoenix? He’d stand there and let her. He’d probably tell her how to make it hurt more, all while calling her “pretty girl” — and he'll love it. Because at least her fury means he has her attention.
Lea Rose has crafted a deliciously dark romance layered with stalking, friends-to-enemies-to-unhinged-and-feral-lovers energy, touch-her-and-💀 possessiveness, he-falls-first devotion, and a morally grey virgin MMC who is obsessive in the most chaotic way possible.
Shannen and Phoenix have always been all or nothing. Their bond was forged in trauma-filled childhoods, fractured by betrayal, and rebuilt through obsession, resentment, longing, and a reluctant reestablishment of trust. This is not a healthy relationship — not even close. But it is raw. It is intense. It is consuming.
Are they each other’s orbit? Absolutely.
Is it safe? Not even slightly.
Lea Rose’s writing feels effortless while cutting straight to the emotional core. You don’t just read their pain — you feel it pressing against your ribs. And despite the darkness, this book is packed with some of the sharpest, most outrageous one-liners I’ve read in a long time.
For all its toxicity, Poison Petals is emotionally gripping, deeply character-driven, and unforgettable. This duet has been a reading journey that will stay with me for a very long time, and I adore Lea for bringing it into the world
Thank you to Lea Rose for this ARC — all opinions are my own.89
Poison Petals is book two in the Broken Devotion duet, and it delivers a dark, obsessive, emotionally volatile reunion that absolutely does not play by the rules.
Ten years after high school, Shannen and Phoenix are forced back into each other’s orbit. Once best friends, now something far more dangerous. Shannen wants to tear the skin from him — one hatred-fuelled claw mark at a time. Phoenix? He’d stand there and let her. He’d probably tell her how to make it hurt more, all while calling her “pretty girl” — and he'll love it. Because at least her fury means he has her attention.
Lea Rose has crafted a deliciously dark romance layered with stalking, friends-to-enemies-to-unhinged-and-feral-lovers energy, touch-her-and-💀 possessiveness, he-falls-first devotion, and a morally grey virgin MMC who is obsessive in the most chaotic way possible.
Shannen and Phoenix have always been all or nothing. Their bond was forged in trauma-filled childhoods, fractured by betrayal, and rebuilt through obsession, resentment, longing, and a reluctant reestablishment of trust. This is not a healthy relationship — not even close. But it is raw. It is intense. It is consuming.
Are they each other’s orbit? Absolutely.
Is it safe? Not even slightly.
Lea Rose’s writing feels effortless while cutting straight to the emotional core. You don’t just read their pain — you feel it pressing against your ribs. And despite the darkness, this book is packed with some of the sharpest, most outrageous one-liners I’ve read in a long time.
For all its toxicity, Poison Petals is emotionally gripping, deeply character-driven, and unforgettable. This duet has been a reading journey that will stay with me for a very long time, and I adore Lea for bringing it into the world
Thank you to Lea Rose for this ARC — all opinions are my own.89
September 12, 2026
I’m dead I’ve died.
Because for all my fire, she’s the fucking altar, and I’d drop to my knees a thousand times if it meant I got to worship her the way she deserves.
“Phoenix wings…” she breathes out. “My phoenix wings.”
Of course she recognizes them, considering they came from her hand first.
“Yeah. Yours.”
“In every version of us, in every life and every timeline, you always find me. And when you do, I sink my fucking teeth in and hold on like hell itself is trying to tear you away from me, because we don’t move on, Shannen. We don’t let go.”
I loved it all.
lianna cain lucien 10/10 no notes. Need their book now.
PHOENIX CASSIDYYY OMFG the man he is wow i can’t. He is so obsessed and in love.
Shannen and phoenix are so soulmate.
CAIN AND PHOENIX AHHA I LOVE THEM.
“About fucking time,” Cain answers.
“What’s up?”
“I’ve missed you, baby.”
“Eat my ass. What do you need?”
“Tempting, but I’m celibate now.”
The greg chapter so fucking funny 🙏🏻
I balled my eyes out by the end of this. Gonna pretend the second epilogue doesn’t exist. thank u. I feel empty now
Because for all my fire, she’s the fucking altar, and I’d drop to my knees a thousand times if it meant I got to worship her the way she deserves.
“Phoenix wings…” she breathes out. “My phoenix wings.”
Of course she recognizes them, considering they came from her hand first.
“Yeah. Yours.”
“In every version of us, in every life and every timeline, you always find me. And when you do, I sink my fucking teeth in and hold on like hell itself is trying to tear you away from me, because we don’t move on, Shannen. We don’t let go.”
I loved it all.
lianna cain lucien 10/10 no notes. Need their book now.
PHOENIX CASSIDYYY OMFG the man he is wow i can’t. He is so obsessed and in love.
Shannen and phoenix are so soulmate.
CAIN AND PHOENIX AHHA I LOVE THEM.
“About fucking time,” Cain answers.
“What’s up?”
“I’ve missed you, baby.”
“Eat my ass. What do you need?”
“Tempting, but I’m celibate now.”
The greg chapter so fucking funny 🙏🏻
I balled my eyes out by the end of this. Gonna pretend the second epilogue doesn’t exist. thank u. I feel empty now
March 9, 2026
Lea. We need to have a chat. Can you talk to my husband and give him some tips?
First we have Tobias. My first love in Leas world who will always hold a special place in my heart. Next we have Christian “daddy cowboy” Crawford. A beautiful piece of man who is both a daddy and a cowboy. Now we have Phoenix, a morally grey stalker who is OBSESSED with his girl. And I’m obsessed with your fictional characters 😂
On to the review. I ate this one up! You’ve all heard me talk about the first book in this duet, Velvet Thorns. I loved it so much I might have requested to get my hands on this book earlier than an arc because I couldn’t take the tension anymore, it was killing me!
He protects her (kills for her). He pays attention to her. (Stalks her) He loves her. (obsesses over her) He rides a bike and is tattooed( just to add to his list😂). He saves himself for her. LIKE COME ON! Put a bow on him he’s the perfect package.
Also Tobias makes alittle cameo and that made my heart happy 💕
March 4, 2026
✨️ "Dangerous and unhinged and completely fucking beautiful." ✨️
That quote pretty much sums up this duet!
Poison Petals picks up right where Velvet Thorns leaves, and we continue with the crazy, obsessive, and unhinged behaviour Phoenix displays, and I am here for every second of it.
Phoenix is working hard to win back Shannen, and Shannen is working hard to block him out. Only one can win.
I really enjoyed reading this, the banter, the tension, the angst, the vulnerability Phoenix shows, and the strength Shannen displays just all made this book for me. I loved Shannen's relationship with her best friend, we all need someone like Lianna in our lives!
If you're after a fast paced, dark romance, with tropes that include stalking, friends to enemies to lovers, second chance, then I recommend this.
That quote pretty much sums up this duet!
Poison Petals picks up right where Velvet Thorns leaves, and we continue with the crazy, obsessive, and unhinged behaviour Phoenix displays, and I am here for every second of it.
Phoenix is working hard to win back Shannen, and Shannen is working hard to block him out. Only one can win.
I really enjoyed reading this, the banter, the tension, the angst, the vulnerability Phoenix shows, and the strength Shannen displays just all made this book for me. I loved Shannen's relationship with her best friend, we all need someone like Lianna in our lives!
If you're after a fast paced, dark romance, with tropes that include stalking, friends to enemies to lovers, second chance, then I recommend this.
April 1, 2026
Obsession ✔️ Unhinged ✔️ Stalker ✔️ — I am completely obsessed with this duet. They were both unhinged in the absolute best way. Phoenix may be one of my new favorite MMCs. This man is a psychopath (in a good way, mostly), and the way he is completely obsessive and possessive over Shannen? Perfect. And Shannen is a firecracker — just as obsessed with him as he is with her. I know we all love a “good girl” line, but what about a “good boy”?
The spice was definitely spicing, and I loved the tension and angst as well as the vulnerability between them. The side characters are great, especially Lianna. She is an absolute mess, and she may be as crazy as Phoenix. There is so much more I can say but if dark romances with obsessive characters, stalking and second chances are your vibe, then you should definitely read this duet!
The spice was definitely spicing, and I loved the tension and angst as well as the vulnerability between them. The side characters are great, especially Lianna. She is an absolute mess, and she may be as crazy as Phoenix. There is so much more I can say but if dark romances with obsessive characters, stalking and second chances are your vibe, then you should definitely read this duet!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lea never disappoints!! Phoenix and Shannen are definitely one of my top couples... 🤩 Their story is, well, crazy af 😆👌 but that just adds to the fun.
This is the second book in the duology, the first being Velvet Thorns. The series was such an enjoyable read, with lots of sexual tension, laugh out loud moments and - quite unexpectedly - tears!!
Side characters are absolute friend goals!! 🙌 Not so secretly manifesting that we get to learn more about some of them... if you read it, youll know 👀
Can't say too much more or i will spoil it for sure! I won't be able to help myself. Just know that you are guaranteed to have a good time with this series...
✨️ COMING MARCH 1ST 2026 - AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW ✨️
This is the second book in the duology, the first being Velvet Thorns. The series was such an enjoyable read, with lots of sexual tension, laugh out loud moments and - quite unexpectedly - tears!!
Side characters are absolute friend goals!! 🙌 Not so secretly manifesting that we get to learn more about some of them... if you read it, youll know 👀
Can't say too much more or i will spoil it for sure! I won't be able to help myself. Just know that you are guaranteed to have a good time with this series...
✨️ COMING MARCH 1ST 2026 - AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW ✨️
March 4, 2026
This book was one of my most antecipaded read of the year, I am slightly obsessed with Phoenix.
Lea did not disappoint with this one, it was filled with tension, twists and so much yearning.
Phoenix & Shannen push and pull is electric, scorching and it will leave you breathless. This man never heard of the word boundaries in his life, he is unhinged, possessive, obsessed, and so in love.
The way Shannen made this man grovel was epic, she made him suffer and made his grovel one of the longest I've read! We love a good grovel, what can I say? 😏
This book is spectacular, the plot, the characters, the side characters, and the spice were extremely well written. It's a perfect mix of dark, twisted, and a beautiful love story.
Add this to your TBR, it is just too good.
Lea did not disappoint with this one, it was filled with tension, twists and so much yearning.
Phoenix & Shannen push and pull is electric, scorching and it will leave you breathless. This man never heard of the word boundaries in his life, he is unhinged, possessive, obsessed, and so in love.
The way Shannen made this man grovel was epic, she made him suffer and made his grovel one of the longest I've read! We love a good grovel, what can I say? 😏
This book is spectacular, the plot, the characters, the side characters, and the spice were extremely well written. It's a perfect mix of dark, twisted, and a beautiful love story.
Add this to your TBR, it is just too good.
March 9, 2026
This second book of our favorite couple Phoenix and Shannen is so good!! The smexual tension and the push and pull between them is everything that I love about them. Both kinda stubborn even though they both know what they want is each other. I love Shannen's strength and determination. Also loved Phoenix's unhinged possessiveness of her. We love a book boyfriend with a few red flags! I loved the ending to this story.
February 27, 2026
Phoenix Cassidy the man you are 🫦😍
Lea’s gone and done it again 😭 another 5* read, with characters (and side characters I can’t wait to see more of) that you endlessly fall in love with.
Blessed to have read the ARC for Poison Petals, and I’ll immediately be buying my trophy book for when it releases in a few days.
Oh Lea I love you girl, you spoil us in every way! 😭🫶🏼
Lea’s gone and done it again 😭 another 5* read, with characters (and side characters I can’t wait to see more of) that you endlessly fall in love with.
Blessed to have read the ARC for Poison Petals, and I’ll immediately be buying my trophy book for when it releases in a few days.
Oh Lea I love you girl, you spoil us in every way! 😭🫶🏼
April 23, 2026
Did he have a redemption arc? Meh. But he took her on a super sweet and private date. And we waited all that time for her. Im swooning. I also really got wanna see Lianna with the twins. That would be such a peak book. Wasn't the biggest fan of the 50 years later. But, I guess that was okay. Other wise, great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
OMG!!! I absolutely loved this story. It was beautifully written and the character development was done perfectly. I loved the chemistry between our MFC & MMC I think it was done really well.
March 5, 2026
Firstly i need to say THANK YOU for picking up exactly where we left off, no time jump or flashbacks! Just right back into it.
You’d think this level of obsession would turn someone off but it does exactly the opposite, keep it comingggg!
You’re going to destroy anyone who looks my way? Perfect, thank you.
The moment she started giving crazy possessive back i knew all bets were off and it was going to get wild and did it ever!
You’d think this level of obsession would turn someone off but it does exactly the opposite, keep it comingggg!
You’re going to destroy anyone who looks my way? Perfect, thank you.
The moment she started giving crazy possessive back i knew all bets were off and it was going to get wild and did it ever!
Review of advance copy
What an epic conclusion to this dark romance duet!
Phoenix is deranged, possessive and psychotic but this man is totally gone for his woman and I loved every second of it.
Oh, and Lianna and the twins... yeah I'm going to need a lot more of them please.
Phoenix is deranged, possessive and psychotic but this man is totally gone for his woman and I loved every second of it.
Oh, and Lianna and the twins... yeah I'm going to need a lot more of them please.
March 1, 2026
This book continues on immediately AFTER Velvet Thorns, so you must read that first.
Every. Single. Book. Written by Lea is 5 billion starts for me. Her writing is just on another level. She captures the souls of the individual characters and lets them out through her words.
Phoenix is a walking red flag, HOWEVER, he is this way to protect Shannen, he loves her and will literally murder and burn the world for her as long as it will keep her safe.
Their past is heartbreaking, you can feel the pain, the desperate love from both of them oozing off the pages. I love them both so much.
I also loved their besties, Lianna, Lucien and Cain are top tier, they are their ode or dies and their banter is super amusing, would love a spin off of these guys!
Also, I cannot not mention the cameo appearance of my love Tobias (from After All This Time) he has stuck with me since I read his book in Feb 2025. 💜
The epilogue - specifically number 2 - erm wow!! Lea, what the hell?! Break my heart, oh my Christ I love them so so much!!!
Every. Single. Book. Written by Lea is 5 billion starts for me. Her writing is just on another level. She captures the souls of the individual characters and lets them out through her words.
Phoenix is a walking red flag, HOWEVER, he is this way to protect Shannen, he loves her and will literally murder and burn the world for her as long as it will keep her safe.
Their past is heartbreaking, you can feel the pain, the desperate love from both of them oozing off the pages. I love them both so much.
I also loved their besties, Lianna, Lucien and Cain are top tier, they are their ode or dies and their banter is super amusing, would love a spin off of these guys!
Also, I cannot not mention the cameo appearance of my love Tobias (from After All This Time) he has stuck with me since I read his book in Feb 2025. 💜
The epilogue - specifically number 2 - erm wow!! Lea, what the hell?! Break my heart, oh my Christ I love them so so much!!!
March 1, 2026
Thank you to Lea for allowing me an ARC copy!
I absolutely ate this book up and I was so excited to have Phoenix Cassidy back in my life.
The epilogue had me in tears. It really hurt my heart and even after sitting a few days after reading it I’m still not over it 🥺.
The connection between Shannen and Phoenix was so screwed up but ended being the most beautiful connection! Their love is so toxic, obsessive, possessive but just beautiful.
The additional characters in this book… I hope we have a story for them because IYKYK 🤪 I absolutely adored Lianna and I need more of her too.
I’ll be giving this book five stars all day long, everyday because stunning.
I absolutely ate this book up and I was so excited to have Phoenix Cassidy back in my life.
The epilogue had me in tears. It really hurt my heart and even after sitting a few days after reading it I’m still not over it 🥺.
The connection between Shannen and Phoenix was so screwed up but ended being the most beautiful connection! Their love is so toxic, obsessive, possessive but just beautiful.
The additional characters in this book… I hope we have a story for them because IYKYK 🤪 I absolutely adored Lianna and I need more of her too.
I’ll be giving this book five stars all day long, everyday because stunning.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly I don't know what to say other than I need more.
I read every single book ever written and published by Lea, and she knows how much I love them. So when she asked me if I wanted to read PP as she writes, my soul literally left my body, because there's not a bigger honor than when the author recognises your love for their work and wants you to have the front row seat while they create 🖤
This duet is Lea's first Dark Romance, and I think we'll all agree when I say HELL YES! 🔥
I loved every single moment of this duet, Phoenix is one of my favourite MMCs (right after Tobias), he's the OTT man every girl dreams of having in her life (maybe except the excessive stalking LOL)
Both the FMC Shannen and MMC Phoenix went through a great character development, Shannen from a bitch who wanted revenge for Phoenix breaking her heart, and Phoenix went from absolute casual psycho to loving, devoted (still) psycho 🤣🤭🖤
The side characters in this duet had me cackling, and I hope to see more of Lianna, Lucien and Cain🫠😈
Phoenix and Shannen got their HEA, after the slight slow burn (side eyeing you Lea👀💀), but I would say the HEA is kinda questionable 🤔 I cried, for a long time, because as much as it was beautiful, it still broke my heart 😭🖤
I honestly think Lea is one of the very much underrated authors, and I try to recommend her books everywhere I go, because she's a remarkable writer. Her stories are so well written, and she possesses an ability to show you what's happening within the pages, instead of telling you.
Lea is not just my auto buy author, she is on the 'I hope she never stops writing' list!
If I could I would give this book (and the duet) infinity stars, that's how much I love it!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
P.S.: EVERY SINGLE ONE OF HER BOOKS IS A MASTERPIECE, so if you're looking for a read with no grammar mistakes that will make both your brain and panties wet, her books are the right choice 🖤
I read every single book ever written and published by Lea, and she knows how much I love them. So when she asked me if I wanted to read PP as she writes, my soul literally left my body, because there's not a bigger honor than when the author recognises your love for their work and wants you to have the front row seat while they create 🖤
This duet is Lea's first Dark Romance, and I think we'll all agree when I say HELL YES! 🔥
I loved every single moment of this duet, Phoenix is one of my favourite MMCs (right after Tobias), he's the OTT man every girl dreams of having in her life (maybe except the excessive stalking LOL)
Both the FMC Shannen and MMC Phoenix went through a great character development, Shannen from a bitch who wanted revenge for Phoenix breaking her heart, and Phoenix went from absolute casual psycho to loving, devoted (still) psycho 🤣🤭🖤
The side characters in this duet had me cackling, and I hope to see more of Lianna, Lucien and Cain🫠😈
Phoenix and Shannen got their HEA, after the slight slow burn (side eyeing you Lea👀💀), but I would say the HEA is kinda questionable 🤔 I cried, for a long time, because as much as it was beautiful, it still broke my heart 😭🖤
I honestly think Lea is one of the very much underrated authors, and I try to recommend her books everywhere I go, because she's a remarkable writer. Her stories are so well written, and she possesses an ability to show you what's happening within the pages, instead of telling you.
Lea is not just my auto buy author, she is on the 'I hope she never stops writing' list!
If I could I would give this book (and the duet) infinity stars, that's how much I love it!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
P.S.: EVERY SINGLE ONE OF HER BOOKS IS A MASTERPIECE, so if you're looking for a read with no grammar mistakes that will make both your brain and panties wet, her books are the right choice 🖤
March 12, 2026
A blubbering, emotional mess - that’s what this book made me! What. A. Book! What an epilogue! And wow I am in awe of Lea Rose
Continuing on from Velvet Thorns, Shannon takes to return to her life in New York but with a very big difference, she knows that Phoenix is watching, very much close by and is coming for her. Phoenix Cassidy is relentless, obsessive and absolutely besotted with his girl, as he always has been.
This was the perfect continuation and ending to this series. I have laughed, I’ve cried, my heart has hurt with the love and pain these two complicated characters have gone through and I honestly didn’t want their story to end! I cannot wait to hear this on audio soon 😍
Continuing on from Velvet Thorns, Shannon takes to return to her life in New York but with a very big difference, she knows that Phoenix is watching, very much close by and is coming for her. Phoenix Cassidy is relentless, obsessive and absolutely besotted with his girl, as he always has been.
This was the perfect continuation and ending to this series. I have laughed, I’ve cried, my heart has hurt with the love and pain these two complicated characters have gone through and I honestly didn’t want their story to end! I cannot wait to hear this on audio soon 😍
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