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Venomous Attraction
He’s supposed to fix broken minds.
Instead, he’s unraveling mine.
Thread by thread.
Dangerous. Obsessive. Addictive.
He’s not the settling down type.
Too bad I’m not in the market for a fling.
I’ve played the game enough times to know a man like that is used to getting his way.
Before I can stop myself, I’m tangled in his dark web. Paralyzed by the way I want him.
The harder I push, the tighter he pulls.
It started as an attraction, but now it’s bordering on venomous.
Instead, he’s unraveling mine.
Thread by thread.
Dangerous. Obsessive. Addictive.
He’s not the settling down type.
Too bad I’m not in the market for a fling.
I’ve played the game enough times to know a man like that is used to getting his way.
Before I can stop myself, I’m tangled in his dark web. Paralyzed by the way I want him.
The harder I push, the tighter he pulls.
It started as an attraction, but now it’s bordering on venomous.
254 pages, ebook
Published December 30, 2025
370 people are currently reading
1337 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Smith
85 books6,663 followersUSA Today Best Selling Author T.L. Smith loves to write her characters with flaws so beautiful and dark that you can’t turn away from. Her books have been translated into several languages. If you don’t find her in her home town of Queensland, Australia you can usually find her travelling around the world to sitting on a beach in Bali, to exploring Alcatraz in San Francisco or walking the streets of New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 17, 2026
It wasn't bad, but it wasn't great.
It took me entirely too long to read 251 pages.
It didn't hold my interest very well.
The FMC is kind of annoying, so that also didn't help.
It took me entirely too long to read 251 pages.
It didn't hold my interest very well.
The FMC is kind of annoying, so that also didn't help.
Want to read
January 8, 2026Who was going to tell me that the second one is out??? WAIT WHO WAS GOING TO TELL ME THAT THERES A SECOND ONE !!! I'm pretty sure the author note in venomous kiss said STANDALONE (I'm going to eat this up as soon as possible)
December 27, 2025
If you have read venomous kiss you will remember that Arlo is a member of the Forsaken Society and therapist and now we are getting his story about the woman who captured his attention. Who might this be? Well it is Cora Ashford a real estate agent.
Initial contact between the pair was made when Arlo requested that Cora would be the one to find the new property, his instructions were very clear, no one but her would assist. Arlo was very straight forward and blunt with his intentions, but Cora was firm and held out because she knew exactly what she wanted and that was something along the lines of a long lasting relationship rather than a fling. This only contributed to the brewing tension and banter between the pair - you see Arlo wasn’t used to chasing a woman, but he soon came to realise he was quite content in chasing Cora👀
When Cora noticed that Arlo’s efforts became more strenuous her walls started to crumble. I mean this man firmly claimed her at a gala - talk about a man obsessed 🤭.
Overall I absolutely loved these two; the plot, the banter, the chemistry of this couple - all these elements were perfection.
I’m so excited for the next couple in this series. Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Tropes:
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 He falls first and hard
🖤 Possessive/Obsessive MMC
🖤 Feisty FMC
Initial contact between the pair was made when Arlo requested that Cora would be the one to find the new property, his instructions were very clear, no one but her would assist. Arlo was very straight forward and blunt with his intentions, but Cora was firm and held out because she knew exactly what she wanted and that was something along the lines of a long lasting relationship rather than a fling. This only contributed to the brewing tension and banter between the pair - you see Arlo wasn’t used to chasing a woman, but he soon came to realise he was quite content in chasing Cora👀
When Cora noticed that Arlo’s efforts became more strenuous her walls started to crumble. I mean this man firmly claimed her at a gala - talk about a man obsessed 🤭.
Overall I absolutely loved these two; the plot, the banter, the chemistry of this couple - all these elements were perfection.
I’m so excited for the next couple in this series. Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Tropes:
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Secret Society
🖤 He falls first and hard
🖤 Possessive/Obsessive MMC
🖤 Feisty FMC
December 30, 2025
arc review to come 🖤
January 4, 2026
This relationship was lust but I was entertained
December 24, 2025
Possessive. Obsessed. Unhinged energy. 🖤
Arlo is a man who knows exactly what he wants — and once Cora is in his line of sight, walking away isn’t an option.
Cora is strong, independent, and not looking for distractions. Her life revolves around her career and taking care of her mom, not falling for a man who refuses to let her keep her walls intact.
When Arlo steps into her world, everything shifts. She’s thrown off balance, resisting every pull — because taking the easy way has never been her style.
Just as she finally agrees to give him a chance, secrets start to surface… threatening to destroy everything before it even begins. ✨
This new series from T.L. Smith has me hooked, and I need the next book ASAP.
Manifesting Soren’s story next. 🤞📚
Arlo is a man who knows exactly what he wants — and once Cora is in his line of sight, walking away isn’t an option.
Cora is strong, independent, and not looking for distractions. Her life revolves around her career and taking care of her mom, not falling for a man who refuses to let her keep her walls intact.
When Arlo steps into her world, everything shifts. She’s thrown off balance, resisting every pull — because taking the easy way has never been her style.
Just as she finally agrees to give him a chance, secrets start to surface… threatening to destroy everything before it even begins. ✨
This new series from T.L. Smith has me hooked, and I need the next book ASAP.
Manifesting Soren’s story next. 🤞📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arlo! I really wanted a Soren story after Venomous Kiss, but Arlo made me change my mind from chapter one! The chemistry jumped off the page. I do love a TL unhinged MMC.
#villianlover
#villianlover
January 7, 2026
3.89
I liked this book enough to give it 4 stars, but I did have some annoyances that kinda pissed me off. I think I liked the first book better than this one simply because I liked our FMC more.
Cora is this books FMC, a real estate agent that somehow only works for the first third of the book. This is a reoccurring pattern that I notice when reading books when the main characters, especially the FMC, have steady careers. They’re used to advanced their personality and lore, but then the careers are kind of forgotten about. This is what I felt happened in this book. She won my heart at the beginning because she was a hardworking woman that KNEW the struggles and how hard it was for her to be where she was career wise. She knew she EARNED her position, which made me proud for her and able to root for her. However, the deeper we dive into the romance, the less her career seems to make an appearance. This bothered me a little bit but I was able to move past it.
Something else I didn’t love about her was how inconsistent she was. Arlo is our MMC, and just like the last book, their relationship is mainly sexual. I don’t love that because I like the yearning and attention to little details that a more emotional connection can give. However, I knew what I was getting into, so I didn’t penalize them for it that much. Back to the inconsistencies, the amount of times that he propositioned her for sex and she said no one minute and the next gives in are CRAZYYY. IT HAPPENS SO MUCH. This pissed me off because this man from the beginning he knew he wanted her. Okay all good. But she was very clear with herself that she wanted more than sex. She wanted marriage and more of an emotional, deeper relationship. SO WHY IS SHE GIVING IN EVERY SINGLE TIME to have another sex only relationship??? I understand lust, but girl please. Pick something and stick to it 😭.
As for our MMC Arlo, there’s not much to say. He was the typical obsessive, dark, and rich guy in your typical dark romance book. He’s a therapist though, so that was interesting about him. His career is very flexible, so it makes sense that it’s only mentioned once in a while, but I still would have loved to see more of him working (the reason I’m not judging this harshly is because he was in the last book, and we saw him work a LOT over there, so his career is kinda established) I did see a lot more outside-of-sex bonding in this relationship to the last, which is to be expected since our FMC here doesn’t have out last FMC’s personality and blood lust.
Overall, it was a fun and quick read, and I’ll definitely be continuing the series when the next book comes out.
I liked this book enough to give it 4 stars, but I did have some annoyances that kinda pissed me off. I think I liked the first book better than this one simply because I liked our FMC more.
Cora is this books FMC, a real estate agent that somehow only works for the first third of the book. This is a reoccurring pattern that I notice when reading books when the main characters, especially the FMC, have steady careers. They’re used to advanced their personality and lore, but then the careers are kind of forgotten about. This is what I felt happened in this book. She won my heart at the beginning because she was a hardworking woman that KNEW the struggles and how hard it was for her to be where she was career wise. She knew she EARNED her position, which made me proud for her and able to root for her. However, the deeper we dive into the romance, the less her career seems to make an appearance. This bothered me a little bit but I was able to move past it.
Something else I didn’t love about her was how inconsistent she was. Arlo is our MMC, and just like the last book, their relationship is mainly sexual. I don’t love that because I like the yearning and attention to little details that a more emotional connection can give. However, I knew what I was getting into, so I didn’t penalize them for it that much. Back to the inconsistencies, the amount of times that he propositioned her for sex and she said no one minute and the next gives in are CRAZYYY. IT HAPPENS SO MUCH. This pissed me off because this man from the beginning he knew he wanted her. Okay all good. But she was very clear with herself that she wanted more than sex. She wanted marriage and more of an emotional, deeper relationship. SO WHY IS SHE GIVING IN EVERY SINGLE TIME to have another sex only relationship??? I understand lust, but girl please. Pick something and stick to it 😭.
As for our MMC Arlo, there’s not much to say. He was the typical obsessive, dark, and rich guy in your typical dark romance book. He’s a therapist though, so that was interesting about him. His career is very flexible, so it makes sense that it’s only mentioned once in a while, but I still would have loved to see more of him working (the reason I’m not judging this harshly is because he was in the last book, and we saw him work a LOT over there, so his career is kinda established) I did see a lot more outside-of-sex bonding in this relationship to the last, which is to be expected since our FMC here doesn’t have out last FMC’s personality and blood lust.
Overall, it was a fun and quick read, and I’ll definitely be continuing the series when the next book comes out.
December 31, 2025
Arlo was arrogant, controlling, and very intelligent. Cora was hardworking, determined, and strong-willed and together they were dynamite.
I loved how strong-willed Cora was and showed Arlo she wasn’t going to be pushed past her limits. She was a powerhouse in her own right, and it’s no wonder Arlo was intrigued by her. The attraction they both felt was overpowering and yet Cora still managed to stay away from Arlo at times—what a strong woman!
Being a prominent member of the secret society, Forsaken, Arlo had his quirks and enjoyed them immensely. His attraction to Cora became almost an addiction and not even the Forsaken Society continued to stay at the top of his priorities. Certainly a shock for Cora but more so for Arlo.
Another fantastic story by this sensational author.
I loved how strong-willed Cora was and showed Arlo she wasn’t going to be pushed past her limits. She was a powerhouse in her own right, and it’s no wonder Arlo was intrigued by her. The attraction they both felt was overpowering and yet Cora still managed to stay away from Arlo at times—what a strong woman!
Being a prominent member of the secret society, Forsaken, Arlo had his quirks and enjoyed them immensely. His attraction to Cora became almost an addiction and not even the Forsaken Society continued to stay at the top of his priorities. Certainly a shock for Cora but more so for Arlo.
Another fantastic story by this sensational author.
January 5, 2026
Oh Arlo, Arlo, Arlo ... 😍
We actually meet Arlo in book one of those series and learn about the forsaken society. Needless to say, he isn't a nice guy, he has certain 'things' he likes - mu®d3r and ch0king during s3x being the main two!
All that changes when he meets Cora. The strong standoffish woman who stands up to him and says no!
Attraction, steam, realisation that you can actually meet your person and a storyline alongside side characters that I really enjoyed!!
We actually meet Arlo in book one of those series and learn about the forsaken society. Needless to say, he isn't a nice guy, he has certain 'things' he likes - mu®d3r and ch0king during s3x being the main two!
All that changes when he meets Cora. The strong standoffish woman who stands up to him and says no!
Attraction, steam, realisation that you can actually meet your person and a storyline alongside side characters that I really enjoyed!!
January 5, 2026
working on review
December 30, 2025
WOOOOW!! This book had me hooked immediately! I could not stop reading the perfection that was the push and pull between Arlo and Cora!
From the moment they are both on the same page you can feel the chemistry and you know things are about to get sooo good! Cora’s ability to push Arlo in ways no one else has shows him that maybe he isn’t so broken and the stability he brings to Cora…so beautiful!
I could not get enough of the steam between these two when they finally came together because…HOTTTT!
I definitely got sucked into this book more so than the first and I know it’s just going to keep getting better!
From the moment they are both on the same page you can feel the chemistry and you know things are about to get sooo good! Cora’s ability to push Arlo in ways no one else has shows him that maybe he isn’t so broken and the stability he brings to Cora…so beautiful!
I could not get enough of the steam between these two when they finally came together because…HOTTTT!
I definitely got sucked into this book more so than the first and I know it’s just going to keep getting better!
Review of advance copy received from Author
love this series
love this family
loved Arlo and Coras heartstopping broken dark twisted insta love
Gripping
all the feels
ready for more
whos next
love this family
loved Arlo and Coras heartstopping broken dark twisted insta love
Gripping
all the feels
ready for more
whos next
December 18, 2025
“That’s a red flag, you know” “We can go to Six Flags, and I can show you them all” Pretty much sums up Arlo.
Possessive, obsessive, venomous, controlling, precise is Arlo in a nutshell and we are here for this morally grey man. However these FMC’s are fierce and giving their male suitors and run for their dang money! Cora and Arlo are like two pit bulls in a cage and you don’t know which one will come out in victory. But no matter how the path to attraction leads, in the end a power couple will be created that can burn the world down and these two have it all!
I literally could not put this book down and was determined to read it and one day and I did. As these new series unfold they get better and better each time.
Possessive, obsessive, venomous, controlling, precise is Arlo in a nutshell and we are here for this morally grey man. However these FMC’s are fierce and giving their male suitors and run for their dang money! Cora and Arlo are like two pit bulls in a cage and you don’t know which one will come out in victory. But no matter how the path to attraction leads, in the end a power couple will be created that can burn the world down and these two have it all!
I literally could not put this book down and was determined to read it and one day and I did. As these new series unfold they get better and better each time.
December 30, 2025
This book will suck you in from the first chapter. Arlo and Cora are like two vipers that are trying to beat each other, their attraction is white hot and explosive. Another fabulous read in this series and it did not disappoint. 5 big stars
December 17, 2025
Damn Girl! Those 2 are fire 🔥
The chemistry is off the charts for Arlo & Cora! The sexual chemistry is on another level.. loved every word!
Loved reading the struggle to gain composure between these 2!
I think these 2 just stole the best couple of the series so far!
Dark romance written by T L Smith! Definitely recommend this book 🙌🏻 Thank for another great read!
The chemistry is off the charts for Arlo & Cora! The sexual chemistry is on another level.. loved every word!
Loved reading the struggle to gain composure between these 2!
I think these 2 just stole the best couple of the series so far!
Dark romance written by T L Smith! Definitely recommend this book 🙌🏻 Thank for another great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was upset at first for getting an Arlo book rather than a Soren book, but holy fff, I was not disappointed.
Cora wasn't extremely special, but her resilience was rather fascinating. I really liked Arlo with all his turbulent personality. I liked him working through his trauma and finally advancing a step from his past.
I kind of relate to her while also understanding him. I liked their relationship, somewhat like a cat and mouse type of thing. I loooved the happy ending even though it was a bit rushed in my opinion.
This is an ARC Review. Thank you for this honour ❤️
Cora wasn't extremely special, but her resilience was rather fascinating. I really liked Arlo with all his turbulent personality. I liked him working through his trauma and finally advancing a step from his past.
I kind of relate to her while also understanding him. I liked their relationship, somewhat like a cat and mouse type of thing. I loooved the happy ending even though it was a bit rushed in my opinion.
This is an ARC Review. Thank you for this honour ❤️
December 17, 2025
Okay what?!!! This book is amazing! I loved every second of it. I was hooked on from page one! I literally have no words. It was just sooo good and amazing, loved it!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
"Venomous Attraction"
by T.L. Smith
When I was ARC reading previous "Venomous Kiss" (that I adored), I had this recurring thought. And it only impossibly grew with this new book: T.L. is a dominatrix with her written words. She has us readers by our dark thoughts and our forbidden desires.
Venomous Attraction is dark, unhinged, strong and hard and raw. And delicious. I feel every word on my skin and deep inside my mind.
It follows Arlo (which we knew from Venomous Kiss), a world know therapist, and Cora, a successful real estate agent: opposites attract through and through.
Arlo is a prominent member of a secret society that is all surrounded by darkness.
And Cora, although has sadness in her heart, is looking for love. And lust. And she founds both in this unexpected stranger Arlo, who is like a magnet.
This is insanely addictive. Proceed with cautious. But go. And feel. And get excited with this dark world. For me it a favorite.
Thank you to the author and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for this ARC.
---
some my favorite quotes:
It's like he knows my deepest, darkest secrets.
You see, I have a certain taste in women. I don't do vulnerable because I plan to break them.
She is an enigma. (...) I enjoy breaking things, so Cora offers me a challenge with her impenetrable walls.
I can't say I have ever had a man proposition me quite like this before. It's intimidating, and yet it causes something to come alive in me.
And Momma always said, if a man scares you a little... run.
"Why the hell did he look at you like he wanted do eat you?"
I wonder what really fazes her, what gets under her skin and makes her scream. I really want to find out.
"Are you thinking of running?"
"I like it when they run."
If I were a sane man, right here and now would be where I would have lost it and taken her. But luckily for her, I'm a fucked-up man, and she's only feeding the darker side of me.
Her words are like gasoline on an open flame. They ignite a wildfire of rage and possessiveness in my chest. Unleashing a feral beast that day by day is hidden under expensive suits, shiny shoes, and a practiced calm for a façade.
"Venomous Attraction"
by T.L. Smith
When I was ARC reading previous "Venomous Kiss" (that I adored), I had this recurring thought. And it only impossibly grew with this new book: T.L. is a dominatrix with her written words. She has us readers by our dark thoughts and our forbidden desires.
Venomous Attraction is dark, unhinged, strong and hard and raw. And delicious. I feel every word on my skin and deep inside my mind.
It follows Arlo (which we knew from Venomous Kiss), a world know therapist, and Cora, a successful real estate agent: opposites attract through and through.
Arlo is a prominent member of a secret society that is all surrounded by darkness.
And Cora, although has sadness in her heart, is looking for love. And lust. And she founds both in this unexpected stranger Arlo, who is like a magnet.
This is insanely addictive. Proceed with cautious. But go. And feel. And get excited with this dark world. For me it a favorite.
Thank you to the author and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for this ARC.
---
some my favorite quotes:
It's like he knows my deepest, darkest secrets.
You see, I have a certain taste in women. I don't do vulnerable because I plan to break them.
She is an enigma. (...) I enjoy breaking things, so Cora offers me a challenge with her impenetrable walls.
I can't say I have ever had a man proposition me quite like this before. It's intimidating, and yet it causes something to come alive in me.
And Momma always said, if a man scares you a little... run.
"Why the hell did he look at you like he wanted do eat you?"
I wonder what really fazes her, what gets under her skin and makes her scream. I really want to find out.
"Are you thinking of running?"
"I like it when they run."
If I were a sane man, right here and now would be where I would have lost it and taken her. But luckily for her, I'm a fucked-up man, and she's only feeding the darker side of me.
Her words are like gasoline on an open flame. They ignite a wildfire of rage and possessiveness in my chest. Unleashing a feral beast that day by day is hidden under expensive suits, shiny shoes, and a practiced calm for a façade.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
This is the story of Arlo and Cora. If you have been reading this series then you know all about he Forsaken Society. The nerve wracking hunts they do and how it is a top secret group of men. Arlo is a very wealthy and sought after therapist. He has a practice that he loves and the man certainly at some point has had to spend some time in a office just like his. However, his darkness is well understood by him it seems. The man is in the market for real estate and he isn't going to buy a thing until realtor Cora Ashford shows him a property. He doesn't do relationships and she certainly does not either. However, the second that Arlo saw her he becomes a little obsessed with her. He is certainly a man that is going to make sure she is looked after and well taken care of, weather she knows it or not. Cora is not one to fall at a mans feet. She grew up poor and her mother has to have care now. It is why she works so hard and grown her business like she has. But Cora is a girl who knows what she wants and she is not going to settle for less. She has a few people in her life and her best friend is everything to her. There is quiet a bit going on in this book and it will keep you on your toes and at times on the edge of your seat. This book is so good, you will not be able to lay it down. I devoured it. This will put you on a roller coaster than our never want to get off of. I think I went though a wide range of emotions and at times my heart was in my throat. I love Arlo. There is so much more to him than what he shows people and I love that Cora brought those things out of him and he did the same for her. These are two successful people that need someone in their life. I loved that Cora is so spunky and man she has a mouth on her. She doesn't let Arlo off the hook, or take his bossing her around laying down. I have to hush or I am going to start giving things away. You just need to run and get this book!!! You will love it as much as I did.
This is the story of Arlo and Cora. If you have been reading this series then you know all about he Forsaken Society. The nerve wracking hunts they do and how it is a top secret group of men. Arlo is a very wealthy and sought after therapist. He has a practice that he loves and the man certainly at some point has had to spend some time in a office just like his. However, his darkness is well understood by him it seems. The man is in the market for real estate and he isn't going to buy a thing until realtor Cora Ashford shows him a property. He doesn't do relationships and she certainly does not either. However, the second that Arlo saw her he becomes a little obsessed with her. He is certainly a man that is going to make sure she is looked after and well taken care of, weather she knows it or not. Cora is not one to fall at a mans feet. She grew up poor and her mother has to have care now. It is why she works so hard and grown her business like she has. But Cora is a girl who knows what she wants and she is not going to settle for less. She has a few people in her life and her best friend is everything to her. There is quiet a bit going on in this book and it will keep you on your toes and at times on the edge of your seat. This book is so good, you will not be able to lay it down. I devoured it. This will put you on a roller coaster than our never want to get off of. I think I went though a wide range of emotions and at times my heart was in my throat. I love Arlo. There is so much more to him than what he shows people and I love that Cora brought those things out of him and he did the same for her. These are two successful people that need someone in their life. I loved that Cora is so spunky and man she has a mouth on her. She doesn't let Arlo off the hook, or take his bossing her around laying down. I have to hush or I am going to start giving things away. You just need to run and get this book!!! You will love it as much as I did.
January 9, 2026
***4 "Venomous!!!" stars***
"Arlo Graves, what a venomous attracrtion you turned out to be!"
I loved so much "Venomous Kiss" and I was anticipating the next book in the series!!!
And here we are, and this time our hero is no other than Arlo Graves and I was ecstatic!!! He was about to eat up his words in here and his match in Heaven was Cora Ashford!!!
A woman that knew what she wanted, but whom Arlo was poisoning with his venomous attraction... He was becoming dangerous for her and she had to fight him with teeth and nails if she wanted to survive him!!!
Arlo had never chased a woman before in his life, until Cora got in the picture!!!
He wants her and he is determined to have her, even though she is fighting him in every turn...
But soon, he will realize that this woman is nothing like the others and that he is enjoying the chase a little too much!!!
Cora is a business woman and she knows what she wants...
She wants stability and something more than sex and Arlo is not the man to provide these things to her... But his persistence are making her resistance to crumble from time to time.
What is this venomous attraction that is lying between them??? Will they survive the venom or they will get lost???
I liked both Arlo and Cora... Not more than Reon and Lilith, but that's a ME thing!!!
Their story was more about the body pleasures than anything else.... It took a long time for them to get closer in emotional level... But still, I enjoyed the push and pull, the chase and the delicious banters between them...
I just wanted a little bit more background action from the society games as it was in the first book!!!
Either way, I love this series and I liked Arlo and his girl!!! I enjoyed their ride and now, I can not wait to learn everything about Soren!!! I am so intrigued by this man!!!
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"Arlo Graves, what a venomous attracrtion you turned out to be!"
I loved so much "Venomous Kiss" and I was anticipating the next book in the series!!!
And here we are, and this time our hero is no other than Arlo Graves and I was ecstatic!!! He was about to eat up his words in here and his match in Heaven was Cora Ashford!!!
A woman that knew what she wanted, but whom Arlo was poisoning with his venomous attraction... He was becoming dangerous for her and she had to fight him with teeth and nails if she wanted to survive him!!!
Arlo had never chased a woman before in his life, until Cora got in the picture!!!
He wants her and he is determined to have her, even though she is fighting him in every turn...
But soon, he will realize that this woman is nothing like the others and that he is enjoying the chase a little too much!!!
Cora is a business woman and she knows what she wants...
She wants stability and something more than sex and Arlo is not the man to provide these things to her... But his persistence are making her resistance to crumble from time to time.
What is this venomous attraction that is lying between them??? Will they survive the venom or they will get lost???
I liked both Arlo and Cora... Not more than Reon and Lilith, but that's a ME thing!!!
Their story was more about the body pleasures than anything else.... It took a long time for them to get closer in emotional level... But still, I enjoyed the push and pull, the chase and the delicious banters between them...
I just wanted a little bit more background action from the society games as it was in the first book!!!
Either way, I love this series and I liked Arlo and his girl!!! I enjoyed their ride and now, I can not wait to learn everything about Soren!!! I am so intrigued by this man!!!
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
January 1, 2026
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: T.L. Smith
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Arlo and Cora
Trope(s): Secret Society, Billionaire Anti-Hero, He Falls First, Strong Independent FMC
‘I didn’t plan on staying the night. I came here to nub myself. I like that when I’m with him, everything else kind of vanishes’
If you read Venomous Kiss Arlo Graves will be a familiar face And, if you have read T.L. before you won’t be surprised she gave him his own book. Because writing morally grey men is totally her jam. And, I am here for it. I have been reading T.L. since 2020 and I have to say Arlo and Cora are up there as a favorite couple. This book adds more to the Forsaken Society making me think we are going to get a couple more stories out of it. Arlo is straightforward and used to getting what he wants. Cora has built a life for herself. She is independent AF, confident, and knows what she wants out of life. She isn’t easily broken. With each passing day Arlo realizes the fulfilling life he thought he was leading pales in comparison to what Cora brings to the table. All his usual go to’s no longer hold the appeal they once did.
Arlo Graves is one of the leading therapists in the city.
Cora Ashford is one of the leading real estate agents in the city.
And, Arlo wants nothing more than to break her.
If only he could read her the way he can other people.
So, he propositions her for more than her ability to find him a suitable building to buy.
His proposition would normally be up her alley.
Running her company and taking care of her ailing mother take up her time and energy.
But, she has heard the rumors about him.
And, he makes her feel way too much.
Arlo’s obsession grows.
He’s ready to give Cora more than he has anyone else. Ever.
But, their life and his Forsaken Society life intersect.
As much as Arlo has tried to keep them separate.
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: T.L. Smith
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Arlo and Cora
Trope(s): Secret Society, Billionaire Anti-Hero, He Falls First, Strong Independent FMC
‘I didn’t plan on staying the night. I came here to nub myself. I like that when I’m with him, everything else kind of vanishes’
If you read Venomous Kiss Arlo Graves will be a familiar face And, if you have read T.L. before you won’t be surprised she gave him his own book. Because writing morally grey men is totally her jam. And, I am here for it. I have been reading T.L. since 2020 and I have to say Arlo and Cora are up there as a favorite couple. This book adds more to the Forsaken Society making me think we are going to get a couple more stories out of it. Arlo is straightforward and used to getting what he wants. Cora has built a life for herself. She is independent AF, confident, and knows what she wants out of life. She isn’t easily broken. With each passing day Arlo realizes the fulfilling life he thought he was leading pales in comparison to what Cora brings to the table. All his usual go to’s no longer hold the appeal they once did.
Arlo Graves is one of the leading therapists in the city.
Cora Ashford is one of the leading real estate agents in the city.
And, Arlo wants nothing more than to break her.
If only he could read her the way he can other people.
So, he propositions her for more than her ability to find him a suitable building to buy.
His proposition would normally be up her alley.
Running her company and taking care of her ailing mother take up her time and energy.
But, she has heard the rumors about him.
And, he makes her feel way too much.
Arlo’s obsession grows.
He’s ready to give Cora more than he has anyone else. Ever.
But, their life and his Forsaken Society life intersect.
As much as Arlo has tried to keep them separate.
January 10, 2026
⭐ 3.75 / 5
Let me start by saying this straight up—Venomous Attraction isn’t as dark or as unhinged as Venomous Kiss. But that doesn’t make it weaker. It simply walks at its own pace, and that’s where its strength lies.
Arlo Graves is a well-renowned therapist, a man who thrives on control, observation, and reading people before they even realise what they’re revealing. He’s also a member of a secret society—because of course he is. Control is his comfort zone. Power is second nature.
Then there’s Cora Ashford—self-made, sharp, and one of the best real estate agents out there. She doesn’t fold easily. And that’s exactly what throws Arlo off.
He can read everyone… except her.
That intrigue turns dangerous. He wants to understand her. Push her. Break her—but slowly. Cora, on the other hand, is intimidated by Arlo, yet she never gives him the satisfaction of showing it. What follows is a slow, deliberate entanglement where walking away stops being an option for either of them.
What I loved most is how they’re both the problem and the salvation, wrapped into one messy, complicated connection. The tension simmers rather than explodes, and the emotional pull keeps tightening the deeper you go.
The secret society angle unfolds gradually, and honestly—you’ll have to read it to fully feel how it fits into everything. One standout detail for me was Arlo’s “Confidential: Personal Use Only – Observations”. Those moments added such an unsettling, intimate layer to his character.
Overall, Venomous Attraction is controlled, tense, and quietly addictive.
Not the darkest venom—but it still lingers. 🖤🐍
Let me start by saying this straight up—Venomous Attraction isn’t as dark or as unhinged as Venomous Kiss. But that doesn’t make it weaker. It simply walks at its own pace, and that’s where its strength lies.
Arlo Graves is a well-renowned therapist, a man who thrives on control, observation, and reading people before they even realise what they’re revealing. He’s also a member of a secret society—because of course he is. Control is his comfort zone. Power is second nature.
Then there’s Cora Ashford—self-made, sharp, and one of the best real estate agents out there. She doesn’t fold easily. And that’s exactly what throws Arlo off.
He can read everyone… except her.
That intrigue turns dangerous. He wants to understand her. Push her. Break her—but slowly. Cora, on the other hand, is intimidated by Arlo, yet she never gives him the satisfaction of showing it. What follows is a slow, deliberate entanglement where walking away stops being an option for either of them.
What I loved most is how they’re both the problem and the salvation, wrapped into one messy, complicated connection. The tension simmers rather than explodes, and the emotional pull keeps tightening the deeper you go.
The secret society angle unfolds gradually, and honestly—you’ll have to read it to fully feel how it fits into everything. One standout detail for me was Arlo’s “Confidential: Personal Use Only – Observations”. Those moments added such an unsettling, intimate layer to his character.
Overall, Venomous Attraction is controlled, tense, and quietly addictive.
Not the darkest venom—but it still lingers. 🖤🐍
December 31, 2025
Venomous Attraction is a standalone dark romance within the Venomous series set in the same storyline of the Forsaken Society which the first book Venomous Kiss was set around too, so we see characters from that book in this one but to me they can still be read alone but I think you'd get more if you read from the start.
Venomous Attraction is a dangerously addictive descent into obsession, control, and desire that blurs every line it crosses. What begins as a spark of attraction quickly tightens into something far more consuming—each interaction pulling the heroine deeper into a web she knows she should escape but can’t. Arlo is unsettling in the best way: brilliant, manipulative, and utterly magnetic. He’s meant to heal fractured minds, yet his presence fractures our FMC Cora's instead, unraveling her sense of control thread by thread. The push-and-pull between them is intoxicating—every attempt at resistance only strengthens his grip, making their connection feel inevitable and suffocating all at once.
T.L. Smith excels at crafting tension that feels sharp and claustrophobic, turning attraction into obsession and chemistry into something almost lethal. The writing is moody, intense, and emotionally charged, perfectly capturing the slow slide from wanting to needing something venomous. If you crave dark romance filled with psychological tension, obsessive characters, and a relationship that feels as dangerous as it is irresistible, Venomous Attraction will leave its mark long after the final page
Venomous Attraction is a dangerously addictive descent into obsession, control, and desire that blurs every line it crosses. What begins as a spark of attraction quickly tightens into something far more consuming—each interaction pulling the heroine deeper into a web she knows she should escape but can’t. Arlo is unsettling in the best way: brilliant, manipulative, and utterly magnetic. He’s meant to heal fractured minds, yet his presence fractures our FMC Cora's instead, unraveling her sense of control thread by thread. The push-and-pull between them is intoxicating—every attempt at resistance only strengthens his grip, making their connection feel inevitable and suffocating all at once.
T.L. Smith excels at crafting tension that feels sharp and claustrophobic, turning attraction into obsession and chemistry into something almost lethal. The writing is moody, intense, and emotionally charged, perfectly capturing the slow slide from wanting to needing something venomous. If you crave dark romance filled with psychological tension, obsessive characters, and a relationship that feels as dangerous as it is irresistible, Venomous Attraction will leave its mark long after the final page
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much T. L. Smith and Enticing Journey for sending me this ARC!
Venomous Attraction is a standalone Dark Romance book and it was such a deliciously dark and twisted read, I really loved it!
Ever since first meeting Cora, Arlo has been obsessed with her and willing to do anything to make her his. But while he doesn’t believe in relationships, Cora wants a marriage in the future and with the tension and growing attraction between them, they quickly realize they can’t stay away from each other, but Arlo is a part of secret society and his secrets threaten to put Cora in danger.
I loved Reon and Lilith’s story when I read it 2 months ago and Arlo and Cora’s was even better than I expected, I loved coming back to this dark and twisted world with morally grey men willing to do anything for their women and interesting plot with some shocking twists. Cora was a great FMC, she went through a lot in her life and through even more in this book and I loved how strong and independent she was. Arlo was the kind of morally grey, obsessed, mysterious MMC I adore in dark romance books and the way he fell first for Cora and was doing all those little things for her was beautiful, he might have been obsessed at first but it was obvious he was quickly falling in love and I loved seeing him slowly realize his feelings. His and Cora’s relationship was messy and complicated and a slow burn, I could feel the tension between them from their first meeting and it took them while to give in to it (especially Cora, there were some scenes I was laughing out loud at how hard to her she was playing to be) but once they did they were a fire together and I loved seeing them together, they were a perfect match and their spicy scenes had me blushing a few times.
Venomous Attraction is an amazing dark romance book that I truly enjoyed and recommend to everyone, I can’t wait for more books from this author.
Venomous Attraction is a standalone Dark Romance book and it was such a deliciously dark and twisted read, I really loved it!
Ever since first meeting Cora, Arlo has been obsessed with her and willing to do anything to make her his. But while he doesn’t believe in relationships, Cora wants a marriage in the future and with the tension and growing attraction between them, they quickly realize they can’t stay away from each other, but Arlo is a part of secret society and his secrets threaten to put Cora in danger.
I loved Reon and Lilith’s story when I read it 2 months ago and Arlo and Cora’s was even better than I expected, I loved coming back to this dark and twisted world with morally grey men willing to do anything for their women and interesting plot with some shocking twists. Cora was a great FMC, she went through a lot in her life and through even more in this book and I loved how strong and independent she was. Arlo was the kind of morally grey, obsessed, mysterious MMC I adore in dark romance books and the way he fell first for Cora and was doing all those little things for her was beautiful, he might have been obsessed at first but it was obvious he was quickly falling in love and I loved seeing him slowly realize his feelings. His and Cora’s relationship was messy and complicated and a slow burn, I could feel the tension between them from their first meeting and it took them while to give in to it (especially Cora, there were some scenes I was laughing out loud at how hard to her she was playing to be) but once they did they were a fire together and I loved seeing them together, they were a perfect match and their spicy scenes had me blushing a few times.
Venomous Attraction is an amazing dark romance book that I truly enjoyed and recommend to everyone, I can’t wait for more books from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC Review*
5 ⭐️ | 3.2 🌶️
I want to scream at the top of my lungs how perfect this book was. Such a great read, TL Smith’s writing is always so compelling and if I’m in a reading slump, she’s the cure.
Arlo and Cora were so beautiful together. So hot and commanding but also tender. They were both gems and getting to peel back their hard exteriors was exquisite.
He breaks into her house and partly stalks her but he is an absolute gentleman. He is so sweet and soft even, takes care of her, possessive, and oh-so-devoted.
Loved when characters from “Venomous Kiss” popped in. And Arlo asking Reon “how did you handle it? Falling in love,” was absolutely amazing.
The grief Arlo helps Cora get through.. I did not see that coming ❤️🩹
Tropes/micro-tropes:
📿Secret society
💚Therapist/unaliver mmc and real estate agent [feisty] fmc
📿He’s obsessed and chases her while she plays hard to get
💚Dry-hump!ng ~”use me”
📿Choking
💚He claims her in public
📿Some blood play
💚He tattoos “hers” on the inside of his bottom lip
📿He cooks breakfast for her
Epic lines:
✨“I quite like it when she threatens me. And I completely understand how sadistic that is. But I do not care in the slightest when it comes to her.”
✨“I once enjoyed breaking pretty things. But this pretty thing was never meant to be fucking broken.”
✨“Why do you think you’re falling in love with me?”
“I don’t think.” [the “think” is italicized!!!! and they say romance is dead, but Arlo Graves is just perfect]
5 ⭐️ | 3.2 🌶️
I want to scream at the top of my lungs how perfect this book was. Such a great read, TL Smith’s writing is always so compelling and if I’m in a reading slump, she’s the cure.
Arlo and Cora were so beautiful together. So hot and commanding but also tender. They were both gems and getting to peel back their hard exteriors was exquisite.
He breaks into her house and partly stalks her but he is an absolute gentleman. He is so sweet and soft even, takes care of her, possessive, and oh-so-devoted.
Loved when characters from “Venomous Kiss” popped in. And Arlo asking Reon “how did you handle it? Falling in love,” was absolutely amazing.
The grief Arlo helps Cora get through.. I did not see that coming ❤️🩹
Tropes/micro-tropes:
📿Secret society
💚Therapist/unaliver mmc and real estate agent [feisty] fmc
📿He’s obsessed and chases her while she plays hard to get
💚Dry-hump!ng ~”use me”
📿Choking
💚He claims her in public
📿Some blood play
💚He tattoos “hers” on the inside of his bottom lip
📿He cooks breakfast for her
Epic lines:
✨“I quite like it when she threatens me. And I completely understand how sadistic that is. But I do not care in the slightest when it comes to her.”
✨“I once enjoyed breaking pretty things. But this pretty thing was never meant to be fucking broken.”
✨“Why do you think you’re falling in love with me?”
“I don’t think.” [the “think” is italicized!!!! and they say romance is dead, but Arlo Graves is just perfect]
December 21, 2025
“You’re my only exception. I broke all my own rules for you.”
I always open this author’s books thinking, What chaos am I about to walk into? And without fail, I’m completely hooked by chapter one. Venomous Attraction was no different. Arlo and Cora pulled me in instantly with their electric cat and mouse dynamic. Their push and pull is pure FIRE, and I loved watching Cora challenge Arlo—the possessive, always in control man who isn’t used to anyone telling him no.
“I like that when I’m with him, everything else kind of vanishes.”
As the story unfolds, you’re dragged right back into the dangerous, morally twisted world Arlo inhabits, all while the chemistry between him and Cora crackles off the page. I loved seeing Arlo’s edges soften as his feelings for Cora grew, and watching Cora slowly let down her guard and consider that maybe—just maybe—Arlo isn’t like the men who’ve hurt her before.
“I don’t feel the need to cater to my darkness as I once did. It’s like she quiets those parts of me with her acceptance of them.”
Venomous Attraction is another dark, addictive hit from this author—fast paced, intense, and impossible to put down. I’m already counting the days until the next book in the series.
I always open this author’s books thinking, What chaos am I about to walk into? And without fail, I’m completely hooked by chapter one. Venomous Attraction was no different. Arlo and Cora pulled me in instantly with their electric cat and mouse dynamic. Their push and pull is pure FIRE, and I loved watching Cora challenge Arlo—the possessive, always in control man who isn’t used to anyone telling him no.
“I like that when I’m with him, everything else kind of vanishes.”
As the story unfolds, you’re dragged right back into the dangerous, morally twisted world Arlo inhabits, all while the chemistry between him and Cora crackles off the page. I loved seeing Arlo’s edges soften as his feelings for Cora grew, and watching Cora slowly let down her guard and consider that maybe—just maybe—Arlo isn’t like the men who’ve hurt her before.
“I don’t feel the need to cater to my darkness as I once did. It’s like she quiets those parts of me with her acceptance of them.”
Venomous Attraction is another dark, addictive hit from this author—fast paced, intense, and impossible to put down. I’m already counting the days until the next book in the series.
December 30, 2025
This is the 2nd book in The Venomous series and you can read it as a standalone.
In this book we have the story of Arlo and Cora. He is a therapist and also a member of a secret society, Forsaken. In this society he can do the stuff that offers him peace, and that means deleting people.
Cora is a real estate agent and the woman that catches the eye of Arlo and became his obssession.
Arlo hires Cora to find him property, but she passes him to another agent and this is the moment when Cora learns that what Arlo wants he gets. Also he is very straight forward from the beginning and tells her his intentions.
Cora is a strong and independent woman, who takes care of her sick mom, and just ended a relashionship. And she also feels an attraction to Arlo, but something makes her to be reserved. And she doesn't play his games. You will love her !!!
I liked both characters and I think they are very lovable in their own way and for their own reasons. The story was good, the banter and the chemistry the couple had was so so good.
I am now very curious about the next couple, because there are still some men from the society that piqued my attention and curiosity.
Thank you TL Smith for the opportunity to read the book in advance. This is my honest and only opinion.
In this book we have the story of Arlo and Cora. He is a therapist and also a member of a secret society, Forsaken. In this society he can do the stuff that offers him peace, and that means deleting people.
Cora is a real estate agent and the woman that catches the eye of Arlo and became his obssession.
Arlo hires Cora to find him property, but she passes him to another agent and this is the moment when Cora learns that what Arlo wants he gets. Also he is very straight forward from the beginning and tells her his intentions.
Cora is a strong and independent woman, who takes care of her sick mom, and just ended a relashionship. And she also feels an attraction to Arlo, but something makes her to be reserved. And she doesn't play his games. You will love her !!!
I liked both characters and I think they are very lovable in their own way and for their own reasons. The story was good, the banter and the chemistry the couple had was so so good.
I am now very curious about the next couple, because there are still some men from the society that piqued my attention and curiosity.
Thank you TL Smith for the opportunity to read the book in advance. This is my honest and only opinion.
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