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Villainous Delights #2
On Edge
I’m engaged to the man who murdered my sister.
Troy Severin thinks he’s gotten away with it. Why else would a billionaire live in the cursed estate where my sister, Nell, died? Leave razors like calling cards? He’s taunting me, hunting me, drawing me into Grayfleet Hall’s shadows, where edges have teeth and every mirror lies.
He watches me sleep, plays with my fears, and knows exactly how to make me fall. He’s untouchable—a predator in designer suits with poison-green eyes and a brooding look that cuts deeper than any blade.
But as I dig into his past, the truth slips through my fingers. These blood-soaked walls hold more than his secrets. They hold Nell's.
Troy might be temptation wrapped in danger, who can shatter my resolve with one glance and, steal my breath with just a whisper, but I won’t go quietly to the altar.
He thinks I’m here to marry him.
I’m here to bury him alive.
Troy Severin thinks he’s gotten away with it. Why else would a billionaire live in the cursed estate where my sister, Nell, died? Leave razors like calling cards? He’s taunting me, hunting me, drawing me into Grayfleet Hall’s shadows, where edges have teeth and every mirror lies.
He watches me sleep, plays with my fears, and knows exactly how to make me fall. He’s untouchable—a predator in designer suits with poison-green eyes and a brooding look that cuts deeper than any blade.
But as I dig into his past, the truth slips through my fingers. These blood-soaked walls hold more than his secrets. They hold Nell's.
Troy might be temptation wrapped in danger, who can shatter my resolve with one glance and, steal my breath with just a whisper, but I won’t go quietly to the altar.
He thinks I’m here to marry him.
I’m here to bury him alive.
- GenresDark RomanceContemporary
463 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
35 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Mallory Fox
27 books1,291 followersMallory Fox is a USA Today best-selling author who loves to write deliciously dark romance with heart and stories that have wicked, twisty plots, tainted-love, and all kinds of angsty redemption.
Mallory is addicted to canines, chocolate-covered pretzels, and lives in London with her bean-shaped dog and the rest of her non-furry family.
Find more about Mallory at linktr.ee/malloryfox or sign away your soul at www.malloryfoxauthor.com.
#wickedwordswithheart
Mallory is addicted to canines, chocolate-covered pretzels, and lives in London with her bean-shaped dog and the rest of her non-furry family.
Find more about Mallory at linktr.ee/malloryfox or sign away your soul at www.malloryfoxauthor.com.
#wickedwordswithheart
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
December 8, 2025
This was absolutely phenomenal! It took me a minute to write this review because the book was just that good. It gives you all the feels with its mix of creepy vibes, mystery, suspense, and a touch of heat. I was on edge the entire time, trying to piece everything together, only to realize I was completely wrong about what was actually happening. I loved every second of it. I would highly recommend reading this!
December 12, 2025
Arc review out 12th December
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m engaged to the man who murdered my sister.
When Sage’s Father sends her to marry her sister’s ex-fiancée and potential murderer for a business deal, she quickly learns that not all is as it seems. On a creepy gothic deserted island she is trapped with a monster and everyone has their secrets. But Troy is temptation and darkness all wrapped into one and Sage just can’t keep away.
This is book 2 in the Villainous Delights series and book 2 exceeded all expectations. Book one (From Hell) I really enjoyed and was a Jack the Ripper re-telling but just felt something was missing. This on the other hand has everything! Forced proximity, a secluded gothic manor, an unreliable narrative and a brooding sexy man who you should not be pining over. This has elements of Sweeny Todd but I wouldn’t say it’s a re-telling but links and calls to different elements, like the pies, barber shop and you know, the murdering.
It was also great to see Laine and Jaxon from book 1, but this also can 100% be read as a standalone too. I loved it and can’t wait for book 3 as Nova needs her story, pronto.
Thank you so much to Mallory and Valentine PR for this advanced copy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m engaged to the man who murdered my sister.
When Sage’s Father sends her to marry her sister’s ex-fiancée and potential murderer for a business deal, she quickly learns that not all is as it seems. On a creepy gothic deserted island she is trapped with a monster and everyone has their secrets. But Troy is temptation and darkness all wrapped into one and Sage just can’t keep away.
This is book 2 in the Villainous Delights series and book 2 exceeded all expectations. Book one (From Hell) I really enjoyed and was a Jack the Ripper re-telling but just felt something was missing. This on the other hand has everything! Forced proximity, a secluded gothic manor, an unreliable narrative and a brooding sexy man who you should not be pining over. This has elements of Sweeny Todd but I wouldn’t say it’s a re-telling but links and calls to different elements, like the pies, barber shop and you know, the murdering.
It was also great to see Laine and Jaxon from book 1, but this also can 100% be read as a standalone too. I loved it and can’t wait for book 3 as Nova needs her story, pronto.
Thank you so much to Mallory and Valentine PR for this advanced copy.
December 24, 2025
"But I would raze the world before I let anyone, Including my twisted, fucked up self, hurt her."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Alright everyone sit down. When I tell you, I sat on my couch for 10 HOURS STRAIGHT TO READ THIS BOOK DO NOT THINK IM EXAGGERATING. I couldn't put this down to the point my kindle had to be connected to a powerbank next to me😭
Firstly thank you so much Mallory Fox and Valentine PR. I got to chat to Mallory whilst reading the book and I ADORE HER. Furthermore, HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!💜
This book was a gothic dark romance and IT WAS DONE SO WELL. Right off the first page, I had goosebumps because of how creepy and realistic it all felt. The book had the most intriguing plot, it wasn't undermined by the romance whatsoever and that's something I really enjoyed. The book was so perfectly paced and THE PLOT TWISTS OMG I DID NOT SEE THEM COMING.
I loved both, Troy and Sage, and the way he GROVELED for her was literally everything. The fact that he gave her his dog and house UGHHHH😭 IF YOU ENJOY A CREEPY GOTHIC ROMANCE WITH AMAZING PLOT GO AND READ THIS.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Alright everyone sit down. When I tell you, I sat on my couch for 10 HOURS STRAIGHT TO READ THIS BOOK DO NOT THINK IM EXAGGERATING. I couldn't put this down to the point my kindle had to be connected to a powerbank next to me😭
Firstly thank you so much Mallory Fox and Valentine PR. I got to chat to Mallory whilst reading the book and I ADORE HER. Furthermore, HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!💜
This book was a gothic dark romance and IT WAS DONE SO WELL. Right off the first page, I had goosebumps because of how creepy and realistic it all felt. The book had the most intriguing plot, it wasn't undermined by the romance whatsoever and that's something I really enjoyed. The book was so perfectly paced and THE PLOT TWISTS OMG I DID NOT SEE THEM COMING.
I loved both, Troy and Sage, and the way he GROVELED for her was literally everything. The fact that he gave her his dog and house UGHHHH😭 IF YOU ENJOY A CREEPY GOTHIC ROMANCE WITH AMAZING PLOT GO AND READ THIS.
December 20, 2025
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ On Edge | ARC review
🌟 4/5
🌶️ 3/5
I went into this book with high expectations, and somehow it still managed to surprise me. From the first chapters, the gothic atmosphere wraps around you — isolated, unsettling, and filled with an underlying tension that never fully lets go. The setting feels alive, almost watching, and it plays a huge role in keeping the story intense from start to finish.
Sage is a heroine driven by grief and unanswered questions. She isn’t reckless or fearless; instead, she feels deeply human in the way she hesitates, doubts, and slowly pushes herself forward. Being forced into a marriage with a man she believes may be connected to her sister’s death puts her in constant emotional conflict, and that inner struggle is one of the strongest aspects of the story.
Troy is dark, controlled, and surrounded by rumors that make it impossible to fully trust him. He’s the kind of morally grey character who keeps you questioning his intentions at every turn. His relationship with Sage is built slowly, through tension, silence, and moments that feel heavy with meaning. The chemistry doesn’t explode right away — it simmers — and that slow burn makes everything hit harder when the walls finally start to crack.
What really stood out to me is how strong the plot is on its own. The romance enhances the story instead of overpowering it, and the mystery keeps shifting in ways you don’t expect. Just when you think you’ve figured things out, the story pulls the ground out from under you.
Overall, this is a dark gothic romance that balances atmosphere, character depth, and suspense beautifully. It’s the kind of book that keeps you turning pages late into the night and leaves you thinking long after you’re done.
Huge thanks to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for trusting me with an ARC and letting me experience this story early 🌸💖
🌟 4/5
🌶️ 3/5
I went into this book with high expectations, and somehow it still managed to surprise me. From the first chapters, the gothic atmosphere wraps around you — isolated, unsettling, and filled with an underlying tension that never fully lets go. The setting feels alive, almost watching, and it plays a huge role in keeping the story intense from start to finish.
Sage is a heroine driven by grief and unanswered questions. She isn’t reckless or fearless; instead, she feels deeply human in the way she hesitates, doubts, and slowly pushes herself forward. Being forced into a marriage with a man she believes may be connected to her sister’s death puts her in constant emotional conflict, and that inner struggle is one of the strongest aspects of the story.
Troy is dark, controlled, and surrounded by rumors that make it impossible to fully trust him. He’s the kind of morally grey character who keeps you questioning his intentions at every turn. His relationship with Sage is built slowly, through tension, silence, and moments that feel heavy with meaning. The chemistry doesn’t explode right away — it simmers — and that slow burn makes everything hit harder when the walls finally start to crack.
What really stood out to me is how strong the plot is on its own. The romance enhances the story instead of overpowering it, and the mystery keeps shifting in ways you don’t expect. Just when you think you’ve figured things out, the story pulls the ground out from under you.
Overall, this is a dark gothic romance that balances atmosphere, character depth, and suspense beautifully. It’s the kind of book that keeps you turning pages late into the night and leaves you thinking long after you’re done.
Huge thanks to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for trusting me with an ARC and letting me experience this story early 🌸💖
December 16, 2025
I’m shaking, like literally shaking, goosebumps are covering my arms and legs and I’m freakin shivering even though it’s not cold because this book was the absolute death of me. The title of this book is so on point because this book had me on the edge of having a freakin heart attack. This book is pure dark intense enemies to lover with so much angst from start to end and a thrilling murder mystery. I’m just so in shock at the plot twists and yes, I did expect some of them but the way they were written had me feeling like I got run over by a truck. The plot of this book is so intense and the unreliable narration is so intensely good, it was complete mindfuckery and I loved it. There’s so many secrets in Troy’s mansion and in both their history that was thrilling to uncover. It had me hooked from start to end, I could not put this down. The entire book was so freaking intense but those last 100 pages had me bawling my eyes out. I loved both characters, although they are both pretty damn messed up and clearly have mommy and daddy issues. Troy is such a morally black main character, he’s a serial killer billionaire who’s hot as hell and twice as dangerous. But later you’ll see that he is willing to do anything and everything for Sage. This book had me going to hell and back and then back to hell again. If you love a super intense mind blowing dark romance then do yourself a favour and read this book. I give this a 5/5
December 8, 2025
On Edge by Mallory Fox is a dark, twisted ride packed with plot twists I never saw coming. The story does take its time building in the beginning, but once I reached the end, I realized just how necessary that slow burn was. Understanding Sage and Troy with their trauma, their motives and their jagged edges made every moment hit so much harder. Without that setup, their story simply wouldn’t have had the same impact.
The chemistry between Sage and Troy is intense. Their heat, their obsession, their pull toward each other… I felt every bit of it. The passion is raw and consuming in a way that fits perfectly with the darker tone of the book. This is one of those stories where the payoff makes the journey absolutely worth it.
The chemistry between Sage and Troy is intense. Their heat, their obsession, their pull toward each other… I felt every bit of it. The passion is raw and consuming in a way that fits perfectly with the darker tone of the book. This is one of those stories where the payoff makes the journey absolutely worth it.
December 15, 2025
5⭐️
This book had me gripped! I ate this up! I never seen the twists coming. What you think is going to happen isn’t really what happens! Phenomenal! I absolutely LOVED this story! Highly recommend
This book had me gripped! I ate this up! I never seen the twists coming. What you think is going to happen isn’t really what happens! Phenomenal! I absolutely LOVED this story! Highly recommend
December 29, 2025
This was a gripping retelling of Sweeney Todd.
I was hooked from start to finish with this book.
On Edge is the perfect title for this book as I felt like I was on edge from start to finish.
I will say that this book started off feeling like I was missing something at first, but then I realized as I continued reading, that was part of the whole mystery and suspense of this story.
The vibes that Mallory gave off with her writing and the entire goth setting - yea, it just set the stage for a great story. The twists and turns and the building romance - everything was paced perfectly and flowed flawlessly.
Definitely a recommended read for anyone who loves dark or gothic romance.
I was hooked from start to finish with this book.
On Edge is the perfect title for this book as I felt like I was on edge from start to finish.
I will say that this book started off feeling like I was missing something at first, but then I realized as I continued reading, that was part of the whole mystery and suspense of this story.
The vibes that Mallory gave off with her writing and the entire goth setting - yea, it just set the stage for a great story. The twists and turns and the building romance - everything was paced perfectly and flowed flawlessly.
Definitely a recommended read for anyone who loves dark or gothic romance.
December 16, 2025
🌟🌟 ARC review🌟🌟
First of all, I have to say that reading this book was special, even more because I got to share the experience with the author. Thank you, Mallory Fox, for the words, for exchanging theories, and especially for this fantastic book that twisted my brain and truly left me On Edge!!
I’ll start this review by quoting a part of the text:
“what did you think would happen when you moved into a Gothic Castle with a hot suspect?”
And that’s exactly it: a very good dark romance, full of gothic vibes, with a villain who might just be a prince charming, who may or may not be the killer of Sage’s sister, and who rumors say is a cannibal, the man she’s about to marry in a marriage of convenience and against all expectations, and her own wishes, she ends up falling for his charms.
The book is so good, absolutely phenomenal, it gripped me so much that I took my time reading it, trying to catch every little crumbs we were given to piece together a theory about the ending and what had happened.
But believe me, the plot is so tight, so mysterious, that some scenes will leave you completely WTF. You’re truly on edge throughout the read and even at the end, trying to fit every piece together, only to realize that nothing you imagined actually happens… The title fits the book perfectly because the plot twists leave you completely on the brink of madness! This book consumed me entirely!
All the feels with its mix of creepy vibes, mystery, suspense, and a touch of heat. It’s a slow one, an incredible slow burn, the kind that makes me crave more and more.
And if there’s something I love, it’s a good slow burn, really love it! And this one is just perfect! The chemistry between Sage and Troy is intense. Their heat, their obsession, their pull toward each other… I felt every bit of it. The passion is raw and consuming in a way that fits perfectly with the darker tone of the book. This is one of those stories where the payoff makes the journey absolutely worth it.
In conclusion, this book is dark, and a twisted ride packed with unexpected plot twists. The development of Sage and Troy, with their trauma, their motives, and their jagged edges, made every moment hit so much harder.
Being a dark romance girl, I really love finding an excellent dark romance book, the kind that fully satisfies us! This is one of them!
First of all, I have to say that reading this book was special, even more because I got to share the experience with the author. Thank you, Mallory Fox, for the words, for exchanging theories, and especially for this fantastic book that twisted my brain and truly left me On Edge!!
I’ll start this review by quoting a part of the text:
“what did you think would happen when you moved into a Gothic Castle with a hot suspect?”
And that’s exactly it: a very good dark romance, full of gothic vibes, with a villain who might just be a prince charming, who may or may not be the killer of Sage’s sister, and who rumors say is a cannibal, the man she’s about to marry in a marriage of convenience and against all expectations, and her own wishes, she ends up falling for his charms.
The book is so good, absolutely phenomenal, it gripped me so much that I took my time reading it, trying to catch every little crumbs we were given to piece together a theory about the ending and what had happened.
But believe me, the plot is so tight, so mysterious, that some scenes will leave you completely WTF. You’re truly on edge throughout the read and even at the end, trying to fit every piece together, only to realize that nothing you imagined actually happens… The title fits the book perfectly because the plot twists leave you completely on the brink of madness! This book consumed me entirely!
All the feels with its mix of creepy vibes, mystery, suspense, and a touch of heat. It’s a slow one, an incredible slow burn, the kind that makes me crave more and more.
And if there’s something I love, it’s a good slow burn, really love it! And this one is just perfect! The chemistry between Sage and Troy is intense. Their heat, their obsession, their pull toward each other… I felt every bit of it. The passion is raw and consuming in a way that fits perfectly with the darker tone of the book. This is one of those stories where the payoff makes the journey absolutely worth it.
In conclusion, this book is dark, and a twisted ride packed with unexpected plot twists. The development of Sage and Troy, with their trauma, their motives, and their jagged edges, made every moment hit so much harder.
Being a dark romance girl, I really love finding an excellent dark romance book, the kind that fully satisfies us! This is one of them!
December 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was absolutely phenomenal. I had to sit with it for a bit before writing this review because On Edge genuinely left me stunned. From the very first page, I was hooked by the eerie atmosphere, creeping dread, and razor-sharp tension that never once let up.
This is dark gothic romance done right. The setting is haunting, the mystery is layered and intelligent, and the suspense kept me constantly questioning everything I thought I knew. I spent the entire book trying to piece the truth together—only to realize I was completely wrong. The plot twists? Brutal. Brilliant. Completely unexpected.
What I loved most is that the romance never overshadows the story. The plot stands strong on its own, and the slow-burn between Sage and Troy only makes it more intense. Their chemistry is dark, obsessive, and unsettling in the best way. Troy is dangerous, enigmatic, and morally gray in a way that makes you question every motive—and when he grovels? When he gives her everything? It was devastatingly perfect.
Sage is such a compelling FMC—sharp, determined, and driven by grief, anger, and the need for answers. Watching her navigate a marriage of convenience with the man she believes murdered her sister, while slowly unraveling the truth hidden within Grayfleet Hall, was gripping. The way trauma, desire, and obsession intertwine in this story made every moment hit harder.
The pacing is immaculate, the gothic atmosphere is thick and oppressive, and the slow burn is the kind that makes you ache for more. This book twisted my brain, kept me on edge until the very last page, and then somehow still managed to surprise me in the end.
If you love dark gothic romance with sharp writing, chilling suspense, intense chemistry, and plot twists that make you question everything—On Edge is an absolute must-read. This book consumed me.
Thank you to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was absolutely phenomenal. I had to sit with it for a bit before writing this review because On Edge genuinely left me stunned. From the very first page, I was hooked by the eerie atmosphere, creeping dread, and razor-sharp tension that never once let up.
This is dark gothic romance done right. The setting is haunting, the mystery is layered and intelligent, and the suspense kept me constantly questioning everything I thought I knew. I spent the entire book trying to piece the truth together—only to realize I was completely wrong. The plot twists? Brutal. Brilliant. Completely unexpected.
What I loved most is that the romance never overshadows the story. The plot stands strong on its own, and the slow-burn between Sage and Troy only makes it more intense. Their chemistry is dark, obsessive, and unsettling in the best way. Troy is dangerous, enigmatic, and morally gray in a way that makes you question every motive—and when he grovels? When he gives her everything? It was devastatingly perfect.
Sage is such a compelling FMC—sharp, determined, and driven by grief, anger, and the need for answers. Watching her navigate a marriage of convenience with the man she believes murdered her sister, while slowly unraveling the truth hidden within Grayfleet Hall, was gripping. The way trauma, desire, and obsession intertwine in this story made every moment hit harder.
The pacing is immaculate, the gothic atmosphere is thick and oppressive, and the slow burn is the kind that makes you ache for more. This book twisted my brain, kept me on edge until the very last page, and then somehow still managed to surprise me in the end.
If you love dark gothic romance with sharp writing, chilling suspense, intense chemistry, and plot twists that make you question everything—On Edge is an absolute must-read. This book consumed me.
Thank you to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2025
Sage's father sends her off to marry her sister's ex-fiance in hopes of closing a business deal, but Sage is convinced he's murdered Nell and plans to do the same to him. Secluded on a deserted island in a dark gothic manor, Sage quickly realizes she is trapped with a monster and possibly his accomplices without much contact with the outside world. The more she finds out about Troy Severin, the more she realizes she should be very afraid, but despite her growing fear, she just can't seem to stay away from him and his intoxicating presence.
This is the second book in the Villainous Delights series, and I am so excited that we finally have the next installment in our hands! The first book, From Hell, was one of my favorite reads. A Jack the Ripper retelling?? Say less. I was all in from the get-go. For the second book, On Edge, we get a Sweeney Todd retelling, and the vibes are vibing in this book. I love the dark gothic atmosphere. The old manor with it's lack of cell phone/internet service and central heating had me wondering what time period we were in a few times while reading, but I think that added to the charm of the book. That's kind of the point. Sage is completely cut off from the outside world and having to navigate the strange behavior of a man she should be frightened of but can't stay away from. Wandering the halls of a half burnt down mansion while her dead sister whispers thoughts in her mind doesn't really help ground Sage in this strange environment, and we wonder together whether or not she's already lost or losing her mind as we try to unravel the mystery of her missing (presumed dead) sister and Troy Severin.
With an unreliable narrator, dark gothic vibes, forced proximity, enemies to lovers retelling, On Edge will literally keep you on edge until the very end, and it's one hell of a ride! Can't wait for the next one!
Thank you to Mallory and Valentine PR for an advanced reader's copy of this book.
This is the second book in the Villainous Delights series, and I am so excited that we finally have the next installment in our hands! The first book, From Hell, was one of my favorite reads. A Jack the Ripper retelling?? Say less. I was all in from the get-go. For the second book, On Edge, we get a Sweeney Todd retelling, and the vibes are vibing in this book. I love the dark gothic atmosphere. The old manor with it's lack of cell phone/internet service and central heating had me wondering what time period we were in a few times while reading, but I think that added to the charm of the book. That's kind of the point. Sage is completely cut off from the outside world and having to navigate the strange behavior of a man she should be frightened of but can't stay away from. Wandering the halls of a half burnt down mansion while her dead sister whispers thoughts in her mind doesn't really help ground Sage in this strange environment, and we wonder together whether or not she's already lost or losing her mind as we try to unravel the mystery of her missing (presumed dead) sister and Troy Severin.
With an unreliable narrator, dark gothic vibes, forced proximity, enemies to lovers retelling, On Edge will literally keep you on edge until the very end, and it's one hell of a ride! Can't wait for the next one!
Thank you to Mallory and Valentine PR for an advanced reader's copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, so let me just scream into the void for a second because On Edge by Mallory Fox absolutely consumed my entire brain.
I went in expecting a dark billionaire romance with enemies-to-lovers vibes, but I was NOT prepared for the sheer chaos, suspense, and delicious tension this book served on a silver platter.
We’re following Sage Lovett, who’s basically the sweetest, softest girl… with a full revenge plan tucked in her back pocket. Her father sends her off to marry Troy Severin—yes, that dangerous, broody, morally-gray billionaire—and while everyone thinks she’s just fulfilling some arranged-marriage duty, she’s actually on a mission.
She’s convinced Troy murdered her sister, and she’s determined to uncover the truth and kill him for it.
Casual.
But the longer she’s in his house? The more everything starts to shift.
The vibes get darker. The tension starts crackling. And suddenly this man who’s supposed to be the monster might not be the villain of her story after all.
The pull between them is intense—like, the type that has you clutching the book and whispering “girl, be serious” while also fully rooting for them.
And the twists? I had theories (because of course I did), and while a few early clues felt easy to clock, the deeper reveals genuinely blindsided me.
The moment Sage uncovers the whole truth? I had to put the book down and stare at nothing for a minute.
It’s that good.
The atmosphere is dark and decadent in the best way, the secrets hit hard, and the chemistry between Sage and Troy is just… addictive.
Light meets dark, softness meets danger, and I loved every messy, twisted, emotionally loaded second.
If dark romance is your comfort genre and you want something with high stakes, shocking turns, and a romance that burns slow but hits like a freight train, On Edge needs to be on your TBR immediately. I devoured it.
I went in expecting a dark billionaire romance with enemies-to-lovers vibes, but I was NOT prepared for the sheer chaos, suspense, and delicious tension this book served on a silver platter.
We’re following Sage Lovett, who’s basically the sweetest, softest girl… with a full revenge plan tucked in her back pocket. Her father sends her off to marry Troy Severin—yes, that dangerous, broody, morally-gray billionaire—and while everyone thinks she’s just fulfilling some arranged-marriage duty, she’s actually on a mission.
She’s convinced Troy murdered her sister, and she’s determined to uncover the truth and kill him for it.
Casual.
But the longer she’s in his house? The more everything starts to shift.
The vibes get darker. The tension starts crackling. And suddenly this man who’s supposed to be the monster might not be the villain of her story after all.
The pull between them is intense—like, the type that has you clutching the book and whispering “girl, be serious” while also fully rooting for them.
And the twists? I had theories (because of course I did), and while a few early clues felt easy to clock, the deeper reveals genuinely blindsided me.
The moment Sage uncovers the whole truth? I had to put the book down and stare at nothing for a minute.
It’s that good.
The atmosphere is dark and decadent in the best way, the secrets hit hard, and the chemistry between Sage and Troy is just… addictive.
Light meets dark, softness meets danger, and I loved every messy, twisted, emotionally loaded second.
If dark romance is your comfort genre and you want something with high stakes, shocking turns, and a romance that burns slow but hits like a freight train, On Edge needs to be on your TBR immediately. I devoured it.
December 11, 2025
Sage is on a mission to avenge her sister, and when she finds herself in a forced engagement to the man responsible for her death, she sees it as her chance to get what she wants. When she is brought to his island manor, she begins to understand that things aren’t always as they seem, and perhaps the man she is to marry is more connected to the property than she initially thought. As she tries to uncover both her sister’s secrets and those of her fiance, she finds herself falling under his spell, and unable to deny the attraction she feels, as much as she hates herself for it.
Troy is a man of mystery, a self-made billionaire who appeared out of the shadows and took the world by storm. Having purchased Grayfleet Hall at auction, he is slowly restoring the property, while trying to eliminate the men responsible for the demise of his family. He comes home to find Sage in his bed one night, and fears she has been sent by her father to trap him. Determined to force her to leave, he is both disappointed and impressed when she refuses, but the longer she sticks around, the deeper she seems to embed herself in his life, and his heart.
I received an early copy of this book from Valentine PR and absolutely adored it. The Sweeney Todd retelling with a modern twist in a haunted British castle added a whole other layer to this dark gothic romance, but made it so much better. Watching Sage and Troy slowly uncover different secrets from their pasts, brings plot twist after plot twist, and even though I thought I knew how this was going to play out, I was still blown away at the end. The slow burn between Sage and Troy wasn’t as frustrating as I usually find them, because it only served to help us understand their broken pieces, which made it so much more satisfying when their jagged edges fit together so perfectly.
Troy is a man of mystery, a self-made billionaire who appeared out of the shadows and took the world by storm. Having purchased Grayfleet Hall at auction, he is slowly restoring the property, while trying to eliminate the men responsible for the demise of his family. He comes home to find Sage in his bed one night, and fears she has been sent by her father to trap him. Determined to force her to leave, he is both disappointed and impressed when she refuses, but the longer she sticks around, the deeper she seems to embed herself in his life, and his heart.
I received an early copy of this book from Valentine PR and absolutely adored it. The Sweeney Todd retelling with a modern twist in a haunted British castle added a whole other layer to this dark gothic romance, but made it so much better. Watching Sage and Troy slowly uncover different secrets from their pasts, brings plot twist after plot twist, and even though I thought I knew how this was going to play out, I was still blown away at the end. The slow burn between Sage and Troy wasn’t as frustrating as I usually find them, because it only served to help us understand their broken pieces, which made it so much more satisfying when their jagged edges fit together so perfectly.
December 17, 2025
ᴏɴ ᴇᴅɢᴇ - ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
It was a book I absolutely loved reading! The way dark romance is blended with a gothic atmosphere was incredible—I adored it. The dark world of the book was beautifully crafted; I never got bored for a moment, and I truly hope this series never ends.
Sage… she was an incredibly well-written character. I could feel the inner conflict she carried every time I read, and there were so many moments where my heart ached for her. Sage was never a cherished, protected child, and that left deep wounds in her. After her sibling’s death, her father sends her to Troy’s mysterious mansion for a marriage of convenience, and she sees this as the perfect opportunity to take revenge for her sibling. The only problem is—she’s not that kind of person. Sage isn’t aggressive; on the contrary, she’s deeply fragile.
Troy… a man everyone fears, involved in dirty dealings, yet also a businessman. But of course, everyone has secrets—let’s just hope they’re not like his! He lives in a mansion on an island, and there’s a reason for that. He’s chasing his own revenge, determined to settle the score for what he suffered in the past. But when Sage enters his life, things start to change. She may resemble Nell on the surface, but only in appearance—Sage is completely her own person, and that uniqueness is what unintentionally draws Troy to her.
It was a book I read with so much love. I find the author incredibly talented, and I truly hope this success continues for a long time.🖤
🖤ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🖤ɢᴏᴛʜɪᴄ ᴍʏꜱᴛᴇʀʏ
🖤ᴀʀʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ᴍᴀʀʀɪᴀɢᴇ
🖤ᴘꜱʏᴄʜᴏᴄᴏɢɪᴄᴀʟᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ
🖤ꜱʟᴏᴡᴅ ʙᴜʀɴ
🖤ꜱᴡᴇᴇɴᴇʏ ᴛᴏᴅᴅ
🖤ʀᴇᴛᴇʟʟᴍᴇ
🖤ᴘᴏꜱꜱᴇꜱꜱɪᴜᴇ ᴏᴛᴛ
🖤ʙɪʟʟɪᴏɴᴀɪʀ
🖤ᴠıʀɢıɴ ꜰᴍᴄ
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
It was a book I absolutely loved reading! The way dark romance is blended with a gothic atmosphere was incredible—I adored it. The dark world of the book was beautifully crafted; I never got bored for a moment, and I truly hope this series never ends.
Sage… she was an incredibly well-written character. I could feel the inner conflict she carried every time I read, and there were so many moments where my heart ached for her. Sage was never a cherished, protected child, and that left deep wounds in her. After her sibling’s death, her father sends her to Troy’s mysterious mansion for a marriage of convenience, and she sees this as the perfect opportunity to take revenge for her sibling. The only problem is—she’s not that kind of person. Sage isn’t aggressive; on the contrary, she’s deeply fragile.
Troy… a man everyone fears, involved in dirty dealings, yet also a businessman. But of course, everyone has secrets—let’s just hope they’re not like his! He lives in a mansion on an island, and there’s a reason for that. He’s chasing his own revenge, determined to settle the score for what he suffered in the past. But when Sage enters his life, things start to change. She may resemble Nell on the surface, but only in appearance—Sage is completely her own person, and that uniqueness is what unintentionally draws Troy to her.
It was a book I read with so much love. I find the author incredibly talented, and I truly hope this success continues for a long time.🖤
🖤ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🖤ɢᴏᴛʜɪᴄ ᴍʏꜱᴛᴇʀʏ
🖤ᴀʀʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ᴍᴀʀʀɪᴀɢᴇ
🖤ᴘꜱʏᴄʜᴏᴄᴏɢɪᴄᴀʟᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ
🖤ꜱʟᴏᴡᴅ ʙᴜʀɴ
🖤ꜱᴡᴇᴇɴᴇʏ ᴛᴏᴅᴅ
🖤ʀᴇᴛᴇʟʟᴍᴇ
🖤ᴘᴏꜱꜱᴇꜱꜱɪᴜᴇ ᴏᴛᴛ
🖤ʙɪʟʟɪᴏɴᴀɪʀ
🖤ᴠıʀɢıɴ ꜰᴍᴄ
December 24, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️. 5
A bit of a warning, only start this book if you can give up a whole day and night because you will not want to out it down!
I was on Edge from the 1st word and it was a ride and a half from there onwards. This is dark romance so please check TW. The world building was so good, I felt like I could smell the musty building and the lake. It felt very surreal, that's kudos to Mallory's writing.
Sage is sent to the haunted Mansion on a small dark Island to live with her now Fiancé. The problem is he was her sisters ex fiancé and maybe her unaliver. Sage is haunted by her sisters presence in her mind.
Troy is the dark billionaire that has a lot of rumours circulating about him. He doesn't correct them because he has his own agenda going on. He however can't get over how Sage and Nell look so alike.
There is a lot of secrets, twists, suspense, suspicions, deception, sparks, angst, emotions and unaliving.
At 1st I had my suspicions at what was happening, then something happens and I'm like oh maybe it is that. I went back and forth a lot and I won’t tell you if I was right or wrong. I loved how he was so protective of her despite trying to get her to leave him. The more Sage looks into her sisters past, the more things get complicated and things might not be what she thought.
I won't say anymore because anything could give it away. I just kept reading because I wanted answers just like Sage and Troy. Another great dark romance and I can't wait for the last book and see what's going on with Nova.
🌶️🌶️. 5
A bit of a warning, only start this book if you can give up a whole day and night because you will not want to out it down!
I was on Edge from the 1st word and it was a ride and a half from there onwards. This is dark romance so please check TW. The world building was so good, I felt like I could smell the musty building and the lake. It felt very surreal, that's kudos to Mallory's writing.
Sage is sent to the haunted Mansion on a small dark Island to live with her now Fiancé. The problem is he was her sisters ex fiancé and maybe her unaliver. Sage is haunted by her sisters presence in her mind.
Troy is the dark billionaire that has a lot of rumours circulating about him. He doesn't correct them because he has his own agenda going on. He however can't get over how Sage and Nell look so alike.
There is a lot of secrets, twists, suspense, suspicions, deception, sparks, angst, emotions and unaliving.
At 1st I had my suspicions at what was happening, then something happens and I'm like oh maybe it is that. I went back and forth a lot and I won’t tell you if I was right or wrong. I loved how he was so protective of her despite trying to get her to leave him. The more Sage looks into her sisters past, the more things get complicated and things might not be what she thought.
I won't say anymore because anything could give it away. I just kept reading because I wanted answers just like Sage and Troy. Another great dark romance and I can't wait for the last book and see what's going on with Nova.
December 15, 2025
This story was so intense, I found it hard to put it down at any point.
Sage has been promised to Troy as his bride in a contractual marriage set up by her father. But she is only here due to the fact that her sister is gone & she is taking her spot.
However, Sage isn't going to his home just in hopes of fulfilling the contract for her father. No, she is going there to also prove that Troy had a hand in her sister's disappearance. But things are not what they seem at Grayfleet Hall.
There seem to be secrets everywhere Sage looks & she finds it harder & harder to know which is which. But she is still determined to find out the truth about her sister & how Troy was involved.
That is until she starts finding it harder to ignore the way he makes her feel despite what her head keeps telling her. But as more secrets are revealed, Sage learns that there is way more to the story than she originally thought.
Now she has to dig deeper into her own family & when she does, she learns that her own story has been a lie & she leaves Grayfleet for her friend Laine's home.
But despite all of the secrets that had been revealed, she still craves Troy & finds it hard to ignore him when he waits outside of her friends house. But eventually she gives in & reveals everything she learned from her father & mother.
I will admit, a part of me thought that twist at the end would happen but I was not expecting how her parents played a part in it. And I was also hoping that her & Troy would work it out between them & they did which was perfect because they both fit so well together.
I really enjoyed this book. I;m a sucker for a good retelling, even if it's something like Sweeney Todd. It was definitely not what I was expecting but it was still oh so good. A thriller mixed with plenty of spice.
Absolutely amazing job & I am so ready for Nola's story. I just know it's going to be just as good.
Sage has been promised to Troy as his bride in a contractual marriage set up by her father. But she is only here due to the fact that her sister is gone & she is taking her spot.
However, Sage isn't going to his home just in hopes of fulfilling the contract for her father. No, she is going there to also prove that Troy had a hand in her sister's disappearance. But things are not what they seem at Grayfleet Hall.
There seem to be secrets everywhere Sage looks & she finds it harder & harder to know which is which. But she is still determined to find out the truth about her sister & how Troy was involved.
That is until she starts finding it harder to ignore the way he makes her feel despite what her head keeps telling her. But as more secrets are revealed, Sage learns that there is way more to the story than she originally thought.
Now she has to dig deeper into her own family & when she does, she learns that her own story has been a lie & she leaves Grayfleet for her friend Laine's home.
But despite all of the secrets that had been revealed, she still craves Troy & finds it hard to ignore him when he waits outside of her friends house. But eventually she gives in & reveals everything she learned from her father & mother.
I will admit, a part of me thought that twist at the end would happen but I was not expecting how her parents played a part in it. And I was also hoping that her & Troy would work it out between them & they did which was perfect because they both fit so well together.
I really enjoyed this book. I;m a sucker for a good retelling, even if it's something like Sweeney Todd. It was definitely not what I was expecting but it was still oh so good. A thriller mixed with plenty of spice.
Absolutely amazing job & I am so ready for Nola's story. I just know it's going to be just as good.
December 13, 2025
On Edge by Mallory Fox made me feel, from the very first pages, the same way one of my all-time favorite books once did. The atmosphere the author creates pulled me right in, with the mysterious vibe being the most intriguing part.
I really liked the male character, even though there were moments when I didn’t agree with him or fully understand him. Troy is hiding something, and that only made the dynamic between him and Sage even more interesting. I liked that Sage doesn’t let herself be completely intimidated by his attitude. I truly felt the chemistry between them, even as they both try to resist it, each for their own reasons.
🖤 “She is mine. Until she’s not.”
I was burning with curiosity to learn more about Nell, about what happened to her, but also about her connection to Troy. Maybe even her connection to Sage. My theories just kept coming. It felt like I couldn’t trust anyone, not even Sage. And while I didn’t get every detail right, I did figure out what mattered most. Did that affect my reading experience in a negative way? Not at all. The beauty of this story lies in other details.
Even though I understand why we don’t get them, I liked Troy so much that I wished we had more chapters told from his perspective. I would have loved to discover his thoughts in certain moments, to see how the turmoil inside him played out. I’m sure that would have added even more intensity to the story, something the author clearly excels at, as proven by the tears this book drew from me.
“He looks like a fallen angel. Beautiful and damned.” 🤍
★★★★☆
Congrats, Mallory Fox! Thanks @valentine_pr_ for the ARC of this book!
I really liked the male character, even though there were moments when I didn’t agree with him or fully understand him. Troy is hiding something, and that only made the dynamic between him and Sage even more interesting. I liked that Sage doesn’t let herself be completely intimidated by his attitude. I truly felt the chemistry between them, even as they both try to resist it, each for their own reasons.
🖤 “She is mine. Until she’s not.”
I was burning with curiosity to learn more about Nell, about what happened to her, but also about her connection to Troy. Maybe even her connection to Sage. My theories just kept coming. It felt like I couldn’t trust anyone, not even Sage. And while I didn’t get every detail right, I did figure out what mattered most. Did that affect my reading experience in a negative way? Not at all. The beauty of this story lies in other details.
Even though I understand why we don’t get them, I liked Troy so much that I wished we had more chapters told from his perspective. I would have loved to discover his thoughts in certain moments, to see how the turmoil inside him played out. I’m sure that would have added even more intensity to the story, something the author clearly excels at, as proven by the tears this book drew from me.
“He looks like a fallen angel. Beautiful and damned.” 🤍
★★★★☆
Congrats, Mallory Fox! Thanks @valentine_pr_ for the ARC of this book!
December 13, 2025
This is book 2 in the Villainous Delights series. Each book has ties to Sweeney Todd and can be read as standalones. Both books are dark romances that have many trigger warnings with obsessive, unapologetic, and murderous MMC's.
This book is about Sage Lovett and Troy Severin. Troy is a billionaire business man. Troy was supposed to marry Sage's sister but now is set to marry Sage instead. This marriage to Sage is a business arrangement for Troy and Sage's father. Sage constantly hears her sister's voice in her head. There's a great deal of mystery surrounding, Nell, the sister.
This book had me guessing and making predictions. I did happen to be correct. The whole story isn't revealed until near the end of the book. Troy was never nice to Sage really. Sage just is the good girl who does as she’s told. I think the ending made sense for me because of how Sage acted. I think Sage was very insecure, though. Throughout most of the book you wonder if Troy loved Nell how could he marry her sister, Sage? Troy and Sage hate and desire each other equally. If you want to read a book that is filled with twists, turns, murder, knives, cannabilism, and very little actual relationship, this is it. The sexual scenes that are in the book are very memorable. The razor and bathtub scene, was definitely memorable.
Thanks to, Valentine PR and Mallory Fox, for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This book is about Sage Lovett and Troy Severin. Troy is a billionaire business man. Troy was supposed to marry Sage's sister but now is set to marry Sage instead. This marriage to Sage is a business arrangement for Troy and Sage's father. Sage constantly hears her sister's voice in her head. There's a great deal of mystery surrounding, Nell, the sister.
This book had me guessing and making predictions. I did happen to be correct. The whole story isn't revealed until near the end of the book. Troy was never nice to Sage really. Sage just is the good girl who does as she’s told. I think the ending made sense for me because of how Sage acted. I think Sage was very insecure, though. Throughout most of the book you wonder if Troy loved Nell how could he marry her sister, Sage? Troy and Sage hate and desire each other equally. If you want to read a book that is filled with twists, turns, murder, knives, cannabilism, and very little actual relationship, this is it. The sexual scenes that are in the book are very memorable. The razor and bathtub scene, was definitely memorable.
Thanks to, Valentine PR and Mallory Fox, for the opportunity to read this ARC.
December 23, 2025
"You're wearing my ring. That means... Now I own you."
"No. Please..."
"What are you begging me for? Your life? You already gave me that, little finch."
He looks just like the villain in the story you don't want to root for.
This is my house, my island. Water surrounds us. Wherever you go, I will find you, little finch.
“My songbird who knows my darkness and loves me anyway.”
Something twists in my gut. I don't know if it's fear or just the creeps, but it settles in, tight over my bones, and refuses to leave.
She isn't running away like she's supposed to, as any sane woman would.
He looks like a fallen angel.
Beautiful and damned.
“Welcome to Hell, Sage.”
"But I would raze the world before I let anyone, Including my twisted, messed up self, hurt her."
I'm engaged to the man who murdered my sister.
ENEMIES TO LOVERS
GOTHIC MYSTERY
ARRANGED MARRIAGE
PSYCHOCOGICALTHRILLER
SLOWD BURN
SWEENEY TODD
RETELLME
POSSESSIUE OTT
BILLIONAIRE
VIRGIN FMC
Sage is after her revenge for her sibling who ☠️, I could feel the inner conflict she had, she is a fragile soul wanting to be aggressive but she simply isn’t that kind of person. Sage was never cherished, protected, and that left deep wounds in her. Her father sends sage to this mysterious mansion for a marriage of convenience with Troy, and she sees this as the perfect opportunity to take revenge for her sibling.
Sage enters Troy’s life, and things start to change. She may resemble Nell on the surface, but only in appearance-Sage is completely her own person, and that uniqueness is what unintentionally draws Troy to her.
The longer sage stays in his home digging for information the more the lines blurr.
I was so hooked I couldn’t put this down or put into words how I felt. It is filled with suspense and action that had me on the edge of my seat! Their chemistry is crazy and they’re the perfect blend of light and dark balancing each other. And when sage finally uncovers the full truth I was surprised by some twists! The passion raw and undeniable I could feel it! Definitely read the TW page ⚠️ if you like a dark romance full of suspense and action with twists that have u hooked. I’d 💯 recommend this read!
"No. Please..."
"What are you begging me for? Your life? You already gave me that, little finch."
He looks just like the villain in the story you don't want to root for.
This is my house, my island. Water surrounds us. Wherever you go, I will find you, little finch.
“My songbird who knows my darkness and loves me anyway.”
Something twists in my gut. I don't know if it's fear or just the creeps, but it settles in, tight over my bones, and refuses to leave.
She isn't running away like she's supposed to, as any sane woman would.
He looks like a fallen angel.
Beautiful and damned.
“Welcome to Hell, Sage.”
"But I would raze the world before I let anyone, Including my twisted, messed up self, hurt her."
I'm engaged to the man who murdered my sister.
ENEMIES TO LOVERS
GOTHIC MYSTERY
ARRANGED MARRIAGE
PSYCHOCOGICALTHRILLER
SLOWD BURN
SWEENEY TODD
RETELLME
POSSESSIUE OTT
BILLIONAIRE
VIRGIN FMC
Sage is after her revenge for her sibling who ☠️, I could feel the inner conflict she had, she is a fragile soul wanting to be aggressive but she simply isn’t that kind of person. Sage was never cherished, protected, and that left deep wounds in her. Her father sends sage to this mysterious mansion for a marriage of convenience with Troy, and she sees this as the perfect opportunity to take revenge for her sibling.
Sage enters Troy’s life, and things start to change. She may resemble Nell on the surface, but only in appearance-Sage is completely her own person, and that uniqueness is what unintentionally draws Troy to her.
The longer sage stays in his home digging for information the more the lines blurr.
I was so hooked I couldn’t put this down or put into words how I felt. It is filled with suspense and action that had me on the edge of my seat! Their chemistry is crazy and they’re the perfect blend of light and dark balancing each other. And when sage finally uncovers the full truth I was surprised by some twists! The passion raw and undeniable I could feel it! Definitely read the TW page ⚠️ if you like a dark romance full of suspense and action with twists that have u hooked. I’d 💯 recommend this read!
December 16, 2025
On Edge was a wickedly fabulous dark, enemies-to-lovers, psychological thriller as Sage, the feisty heroine, found herself reluctantly engaged to the brooding billionaire Troy Severin, thanks to her father’s business machinations. But she had no intention of walking down the aisle. Her real goal? Uncovering the truth behind her sister’s mysterious death, who just happened to have been Troy’s previous fiancee.
I devoured this book finding it addictive and utterly thrilling! From the suitably atmospheric setting of a creepy gothic estate on a remote island to Sage's determination to uncover Troy’s secrets and the truth about her sister's death which was laudable, if not a little reckless considering she was on an island with nowhere to run. The chemistry between them was raw and elemental as they were drawn to each other almost against their wills and Troy was a suitably enigmatic character - ruthless, focused, and expertly crafted, keeping you guessing about his motives throughout the book making for a real nail-biter of a read - I'm talking 'don't-even-think-about-putting-it-down' gripping, filled with heart-stopping moments, drama, and suspense. At first, it's a slow burn, but don't let that fool you – this just heightens the building tension between the two protagonists and just when you think you have everything figured out…. the plot twist hits you like a ton of bricks, and you're left wondering what just happened. Talk about one deliciously dark and twisted ride!
I devoured this book finding it addictive and utterly thrilling! From the suitably atmospheric setting of a creepy gothic estate on a remote island to Sage's determination to uncover Troy’s secrets and the truth about her sister's death which was laudable, if not a little reckless considering she was on an island with nowhere to run. The chemistry between them was raw and elemental as they were drawn to each other almost against their wills and Troy was a suitably enigmatic character - ruthless, focused, and expertly crafted, keeping you guessing about his motives throughout the book making for a real nail-biter of a read - I'm talking 'don't-even-think-about-putting-it-down' gripping, filled with heart-stopping moments, drama, and suspense. At first, it's a slow burn, but don't let that fool you – this just heightens the building tension between the two protagonists and just when you think you have everything figured out…. the plot twist hits you like a ton of bricks, and you're left wondering what just happened. Talk about one deliciously dark and twisted ride!
December 29, 2025
Story: 4.5⭐
Spice: 3🌶️
On Edge was my first book by Mallory Fox, and discovering her work was such a pleasure. This story pulled me in immediately with its gothic atmosphere and never let go, keeping me in a constant state of unease and curiosity in the best possible way. I was hooked early on by the tension alone, as the mystery unfolds slowly and deliberately, making it impossible to fully trust any character—or anything—on the page.
What really impressed me was the psychological depth. There’s an undercurrent of tension running throughout the story that keeps you slightly off-balance, always leaning in, always waiting for the next shift. That unease works beautifully with the dark atmosphere, making the suspense feel tight and intentional while allowing the emotional moments to land with real impact. The pacing is steady and immersive, with twists that feel earned rather than thrown in for shock value.
The romance is a true slow burn, driven more by obsession, fear, and gravity than overt heat. The chemistry between Sage and Troy simmers beneath the surface, adding intensity to the story instead of overpowering it. Their dynamic is dark, messy, and morally complicated, which fits the tone perfectly and makes the emotional payoff especially satisfying.
Haunting, suspenseful, and deeply addictive, On Edge/ is the kind of book that reminds me how fun it is to stumble onto a new-to-me author who just gets it. If you enjoy atmospheric storytelling, morally gray characters, and romance wrapped in psychological tension, this one is absolutely worth the ride.
Genre:
🖤Gothic Romance
Tropes/Themes:
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Gothic Mystery
🖤 Possessive OTT Billionaire
🖤 Morally Gray MMC
🖤 Psychological Twists
🖤 Sweeney Todd–Inspired Vibes
Spice: 3🌶️
On Edge was my first book by Mallory Fox, and discovering her work was such a pleasure. This story pulled me in immediately with its gothic atmosphere and never let go, keeping me in a constant state of unease and curiosity in the best possible way. I was hooked early on by the tension alone, as the mystery unfolds slowly and deliberately, making it impossible to fully trust any character—or anything—on the page.
What really impressed me was the psychological depth. There’s an undercurrent of tension running throughout the story that keeps you slightly off-balance, always leaning in, always waiting for the next shift. That unease works beautifully with the dark atmosphere, making the suspense feel tight and intentional while allowing the emotional moments to land with real impact. The pacing is steady and immersive, with twists that feel earned rather than thrown in for shock value.
The romance is a true slow burn, driven more by obsession, fear, and gravity than overt heat. The chemistry between Sage and Troy simmers beneath the surface, adding intensity to the story instead of overpowering it. Their dynamic is dark, messy, and morally complicated, which fits the tone perfectly and makes the emotional payoff especially satisfying.
Haunting, suspenseful, and deeply addictive, On Edge/ is the kind of book that reminds me how fun it is to stumble onto a new-to-me author who just gets it. If you enjoy atmospheric storytelling, morally gray characters, and romance wrapped in psychological tension, this one is absolutely worth the ride.
Genre:
🖤Gothic Romance
Tropes/Themes:
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Gothic Mystery
🖤 Possessive OTT Billionaire
🖤 Morally Gray MMC
🖤 Psychological Twists
🖤 Sweeney Todd–Inspired Vibes
December 9, 2025
ARC Review
On Edge by Mallory Fox is the second book in the Villainous Delights series.
Sage Lovett is sent by her father to marry Troy Severin. While her father has his own reasons for arranging the marriage, Sage has a mission of her own. She believes Troy murdered her sister—and once she finds the evidence, she plans to kill him. But the longer she stays in his home, digging for the truth, the more the lines begin to blur. There’s an undeniable pull between them, an attraction so strong that even the darkness surrounding them can’t destroy it. Will Sage follow through with her revenge… or is the monster she’s hunting not the one she thinks?
This story is mind-blowing. A dark enemies to lovers billionaire romance packed with secrets, danger, and suspense. The atmosphere is deliciously dark and immediately pulls you in. The characters have incredible chemistry—Sage is the sweet, determined girl desperate to uncover the truth, while Troy is the dangerous, brooding type whose protectiveness becomes impossible to ignore. They’re the perfect blend of light and dark.
The revelations genuinely surprised me. A few things were easy to pick up early on, but the deeper twists didn’t become clear until much later. My favorite moment was when Sage finally uncovered the full truth.
If you love dark romance with huge twists and shocking surprises, you need this book.
On Edge by Mallory Fox is the second book in the Villainous Delights series.
Sage Lovett is sent by her father to marry Troy Severin. While her father has his own reasons for arranging the marriage, Sage has a mission of her own. She believes Troy murdered her sister—and once she finds the evidence, she plans to kill him. But the longer she stays in his home, digging for the truth, the more the lines begin to blur. There’s an undeniable pull between them, an attraction so strong that even the darkness surrounding them can’t destroy it. Will Sage follow through with her revenge… or is the monster she’s hunting not the one she thinks?
This story is mind-blowing. A dark enemies to lovers billionaire romance packed with secrets, danger, and suspense. The atmosphere is deliciously dark and immediately pulls you in. The characters have incredible chemistry—Sage is the sweet, determined girl desperate to uncover the truth, while Troy is the dangerous, brooding type whose protectiveness becomes impossible to ignore. They’re the perfect blend of light and dark.
The revelations genuinely surprised me. A few things were easy to pick up early on, but the deeper twists didn’t become clear until much later. My favorite moment was when Sage finally uncovered the full truth.
If you love dark romance with huge twists and shocking surprises, you need this book.
December 12, 2025
This is book two in the Villainous Delights series and rom the first chapter, I knew this book was going to be a ride. It is dark, tense, twisted in all the best ways, and the atmosphere pulled me in immediately even without having read book one.
Sage is determined, grieving, and fueled by the need to uncover what happened to her sister. She goes into this arranged marriage with one mission in mind and refuses to break even when the world around her starts to twist in unexpected ways.
Troy is cold, controlled, and impossible to pin down. He is the kind of man who feels dangerous from the moment he appears on the page, but underneath that shadow is a depth that makes you question everything you thought you knew about him. The more Sage pushes against him, the more you see the fractured humanity he tries to hide.
When I say this book is dark, I mean it is dark. I was completely sucked in and could not put it down. The twists kept hitting, the mystery tightened with every chapter, and their chemistry burned in a way that felt like fire meeting ice. I loved how they dragged hidden parts of each other to the surface and how the tension between suspicion and desire made every moment feel electric. I was on edge (pun intended) the entire time.
If you love dark romances with shocking twists, morally gray characters, and a slow burn that turns molten, you need to pick this one up. I cannot wait for the next book, and I will definitely be going back to read book one as soon as possible.
Sage is determined, grieving, and fueled by the need to uncover what happened to her sister. She goes into this arranged marriage with one mission in mind and refuses to break even when the world around her starts to twist in unexpected ways.
Troy is cold, controlled, and impossible to pin down. He is the kind of man who feels dangerous from the moment he appears on the page, but underneath that shadow is a depth that makes you question everything you thought you knew about him. The more Sage pushes against him, the more you see the fractured humanity he tries to hide.
When I say this book is dark, I mean it is dark. I was completely sucked in and could not put it down. The twists kept hitting, the mystery tightened with every chapter, and their chemistry burned in a way that felt like fire meeting ice. I loved how they dragged hidden parts of each other to the surface and how the tension between suspicion and desire made every moment feel electric. I was on edge (pun intended) the entire time.
If you love dark romances with shocking twists, morally gray characters, and a slow burn that turns molten, you need to pick this one up. I cannot wait for the next book, and I will definitely be going back to read book one as soon as possible.
December 12, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect from this book, but holy cow…I could not put it down. I finished it in a single day because the suspense had me completely hooked.
Sage is the sweet girl sent to marry her sister’s fiancé, a man she suspects may be involved in her sister’s disappearance. Even while doubting herself, she’s determined to uncover the truth. I really enjoyed her character development and how she grows into her true self. Troy is the classic broody, morally gray billionaire who wants nothing to do with her. He has his own agenda and initially sees Sage as nothing but a distraction. He’s mysterious from the start, and as the story unfolds, you begin to understand why he is the way he is.
Normally, slowburns are hit-or-miss with me, but this one is the hottest slowburn I’ve read; the tension between them is so good. Both characters are dealing with their own turmoil, and watching them learn that the other isn’t who they thought they were was incredibly satisfying. I did pick up on where the story was heading based on the clues, but the suspense of how things would unfold kept me from putting this book down.
If you love a dark, gothic enemies-to-lovers, revenge, and suspense romance, I recommend this book.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Mallory Fox for an eARC copy. This review is my own opinion.
Sage is the sweet girl sent to marry her sister’s fiancé, a man she suspects may be involved in her sister’s disappearance. Even while doubting herself, she’s determined to uncover the truth. I really enjoyed her character development and how she grows into her true self. Troy is the classic broody, morally gray billionaire who wants nothing to do with her. He has his own agenda and initially sees Sage as nothing but a distraction. He’s mysterious from the start, and as the story unfolds, you begin to understand why he is the way he is.
Normally, slowburns are hit-or-miss with me, but this one is the hottest slowburn I’ve read; the tension between them is so good. Both characters are dealing with their own turmoil, and watching them learn that the other isn’t who they thought they were was incredibly satisfying. I did pick up on where the story was heading based on the clues, but the suspense of how things would unfold kept me from putting this book down.
If you love a dark, gothic enemies-to-lovers, revenge, and suspense romance, I recommend this book.
Thank you to Valentine PR and Mallory Fox for an eARC copy. This review is my own opinion.
December 12, 2025
This book didn’t just grab me, On Edge picked me up, shook me, and refused to let go.
I went in expecting a dark arranged marriage romance and ended up trapped in a twisting, addictive storm of secrets, suspicion, and tension so sharp it practically vibrates. Mallory Fox builds the story with a slow, creeping intensity that pays off in a massive way once the truth starts cracking open.
Sage is a phenomenal heroine, soft on the surface, but fueled by grief and determination, walking straight into the lion’s den with a mission of her own. And Troy? He’s the kind of morally gray mystery that keeps you questioning every motive and craving every interaction.
Their chemistry is explosive in that dangerous, reluctant, "can’t look away" way, and the deeper the story goes, the more tangled and emotional their connection becomes. I was certain I had the twists figured out… and I was absolutely, gloriously wrong.
Dark atmosphere, high stakes suspense, and a romance that hits you like a freight train, I devoured this. If you want tension, mystery, passion, and a rollercoaster of reveals, On Edge is one you need on your TBR.
Thank you to VPR and Mallory Fox for the ARC and taking over my time in the best way possible.
I went in expecting a dark arranged marriage romance and ended up trapped in a twisting, addictive storm of secrets, suspicion, and tension so sharp it practically vibrates. Mallory Fox builds the story with a slow, creeping intensity that pays off in a massive way once the truth starts cracking open.
Sage is a phenomenal heroine, soft on the surface, but fueled by grief and determination, walking straight into the lion’s den with a mission of her own. And Troy? He’s the kind of morally gray mystery that keeps you questioning every motive and craving every interaction.
Their chemistry is explosive in that dangerous, reluctant, "can’t look away" way, and the deeper the story goes, the more tangled and emotional their connection becomes. I was certain I had the twists figured out… and I was absolutely, gloriously wrong.
Dark atmosphere, high stakes suspense, and a romance that hits you like a freight train, I devoured this. If you want tension, mystery, passion, and a rollercoaster of reveals, On Edge is one you need on your TBR.
Thank you to VPR and Mallory Fox for the ARC and taking over my time in the best way possible.
December 21, 2025
Thanks so much to this lovely author and Valentine PR for the ARC! This book is dark, seductive, and unsettling in the best way! It had me hooked from the very first line.
The premise alone is chilling, and the gothic atmosphere of Grayfleet Hall seeps into every page. The plot is deeply mysterious and leans heavily into thriller territory, keeping you on edge and constantly questioning what’s real, what’s manipulation, and who can be trusted.
Troy Severin is a fascinating, morally gray MMC, that’s cold, controlled, and dangerously charming. He is also predatory, polished, and impossible to fully trust, but so magnetic that you can’t look away from him.
Sage Lovett is fueled by grief and rage, which makes her feel raw and determined from the very beginning. Her inner conflict between vengeance and temptation adds depth to every decision she makes.
The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Sage and Troy is intense, with a constant sense that nothing is quite what it seems. Every interaction between them feels charged, unsettling, and layered with hidden meaning. The mystery kept me guessing, and the suspense never lets up. It’s a real page-turner, keeping you hooked from beginning to end!
And Grayfleet Hall is more than just a setting, it’s a character in its own right. The house is oppressive, eerie, and filled with secrets, amplifying the gothic tone of the story. Its dark corridors, mirrors, and blood-soaked history heighten the mystery and make the suspense feel claustrophobic. The atmosphere it creates, the constant sense of danger and psychological unease never fully fades, as if the walls themselves are watching.
If you enjoy dark gothic romances with complex characters, a haunting setting, and an enemies-to-lovers dynamic that blurs the line between desire and danger, this book is absolutely worth the read. Just be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
The premise alone is chilling, and the gothic atmosphere of Grayfleet Hall seeps into every page. The plot is deeply mysterious and leans heavily into thriller territory, keeping you on edge and constantly questioning what’s real, what’s manipulation, and who can be trusted.
Troy Severin is a fascinating, morally gray MMC, that’s cold, controlled, and dangerously charming. He is also predatory, polished, and impossible to fully trust, but so magnetic that you can’t look away from him.
Sage Lovett is fueled by grief and rage, which makes her feel raw and determined from the very beginning. Her inner conflict between vengeance and temptation adds depth to every decision she makes.
The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Sage and Troy is intense, with a constant sense that nothing is quite what it seems. Every interaction between them feels charged, unsettling, and layered with hidden meaning. The mystery kept me guessing, and the suspense never lets up. It’s a real page-turner, keeping you hooked from beginning to end!
And Grayfleet Hall is more than just a setting, it’s a character in its own right. The house is oppressive, eerie, and filled with secrets, amplifying the gothic tone of the story. Its dark corridors, mirrors, and blood-soaked history heighten the mystery and make the suspense feel claustrophobic. The atmosphere it creates, the constant sense of danger and psychological unease never fully fades, as if the walls themselves are watching.
If you enjoy dark gothic romances with complex characters, a haunting setting, and an enemies-to-lovers dynamic that blurs the line between desire and danger, this book is absolutely worth the read. Just be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
December 20, 2025
ᴏɴ ᴇᴅɢᴇ || ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ
"𝓦𝓮𝓵𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓵, 𝓢𝓪𝓰𝓮,"
💜Arranged Marriage
💜Gothic Mystery
💜Enemies to Lovers
💜Slow Burn
💜Possesive MC
HELP, I THINK I'VE FALLEN FOR TROY. The chemistry between Sage and Troy... Troy being drawn to Sage despite saying he doesn't want to... The book's gothic atmosphere and that dark mystery make it even more exciting. Each chapter is a thrill.
✨5/5
🌶️4/5
Troy Severin is a monster.
I will kîll him.
He's devastatingly beautiful...and utterly terrifying… The heat from his gaze is unexpected.
Sage is…Beautiful. Desirable. Unobtainable.
I want to destroy her. But it's the fear in her eyes that drives the hunger, taunting me to slice her apart
She’s mine. She's off limits. To everyone. On my island, she belongs to me.
I'm losing control. This girl is making me obsessive, weak.
He looks like a fallen angel.
Beautiful and damned.
He was only a boy when he killed them.
“You’re wearing my ring. That means... Now I own you.”
"No. Please..."
"What are you begging me for? Your life? You already gave me that, little finch.”
He looks just like the villain in the story you don't want to root for.
"𝓦𝓮𝓵𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓵, 𝓢𝓪𝓰𝓮,"
💜Arranged Marriage
💜Gothic Mystery
💜Enemies to Lovers
💜Slow Burn
💜Possesive MC
HELP, I THINK I'VE FALLEN FOR TROY. The chemistry between Sage and Troy... Troy being drawn to Sage despite saying he doesn't want to... The book's gothic atmosphere and that dark mystery make it even more exciting. Each chapter is a thrill.
✨5/5
🌶️4/5
Troy Severin is a monster.
I will kîll him.
He's devastatingly beautiful...and utterly terrifying… The heat from his gaze is unexpected.
Sage is…Beautiful. Desirable. Unobtainable.
I want to destroy her. But it's the fear in her eyes that drives the hunger, taunting me to slice her apart
She’s mine. She's off limits. To everyone. On my island, she belongs to me.
I'm losing control. This girl is making me obsessive, weak.
He looks like a fallen angel.
Beautiful and damned.
He was only a boy when he killed them.
“You’re wearing my ring. That means... Now I own you.”
"No. Please..."
"What are you begging me for? Your life? You already gave me that, little finch.”
He looks just like the villain in the story you don't want to root for.
December 12, 2025
On Edge was an amazing read. I was hooked from the very first page! I couldn’t put it down. The mystery, secrets, twists, and suspense kept me on edge, constantly guessing what would happen next. Mallory Fox did not disappoint. The writing is sharp, the gothic atmosphere is deliciously dark, and the character development is fantastic.
Sage is a sweet, determined heroine desperate to uncover the truth about her sister’s death, while Troy is dangerous, brooding, and fiercely protective. They fit together perfectly — I was rooting for them the entire way through. Their chemistry is electrifying, the tension is intense, the banter is fun, and the slow burn is worth the wait.
The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is done so well, balancing danger, desire, and emotional vulnerability. And when Sage finally discovers the truth? I was completely mind blown.
If you love gothic romance, dark secrets, high tension, and twisty plots, On Edge should definitely be on your TBR.
TW/CW: Check before reading.
Thank you to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for the ARC.
Sage is a sweet, determined heroine desperate to uncover the truth about her sister’s death, while Troy is dangerous, brooding, and fiercely protective. They fit together perfectly — I was rooting for them the entire way through. Their chemistry is electrifying, the tension is intense, the banter is fun, and the slow burn is worth the wait.
The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is done so well, balancing danger, desire, and emotional vulnerability. And when Sage finally discovers the truth? I was completely mind blown.
If you love gothic romance, dark secrets, high tension, and twisty plots, On Edge should definitely be on your TBR.
TW/CW: Check before reading.
Thank you to Mallory Fox and Valentine PR for the ARC.
December 14, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Sage and Troy. Her sister is dead and she is now being sent by her father to marry the man she thinks has done this. All for a business deal. I have to say that the place he lives was creepy as all get out to me and I was reading a book. But it is so well written I think I was so engrossed in it I could picture it perfectly. His house is a crumbling Gothic mansion on a private island in the middle of a lake. No thank you!!! She has heard some horrible things about Troy and is not looking forward to this but also has a plan if she finds out he is guilty. What she didn't expect is the Troy she meets. He is dark and handsome and carrying so many secrets and is absolutely irresistible. I can't tell you more about this story than I have said. I have to say that I did not see the plot twists coming at all. I loved this book. But anything I can say from here on out would be a spoiler so I have to hush. You just need to run and get this book.
This is the story of Sage and Troy. Her sister is dead and she is now being sent by her father to marry the man she thinks has done this. All for a business deal. I have to say that the place he lives was creepy as all get out to me and I was reading a book. But it is so well written I think I was so engrossed in it I could picture it perfectly. His house is a crumbling Gothic mansion on a private island in the middle of a lake. No thank you!!! She has heard some horrible things about Troy and is not looking forward to this but also has a plan if she finds out he is guilty. What she didn't expect is the Troy she meets. He is dark and handsome and carrying so many secrets and is absolutely irresistible. I can't tell you more about this story than I have said. I have to say that I did not see the plot twists coming at all. I loved this book. But anything I can say from here on out would be a spoiler so I have to hush. You just need to run and get this book.
December 16, 2025
On Edge by Malory Fox is a dark, tension-soaked romance that lives up to its name. From the first pages, the story crackles with unease, pulling readers into a relationship that feels dangerous, consuming, and impossible to ignore. Fox excels at writing emotional intensity, crafting a slow-burn connection where attraction is tangled with fear, control, and vulnerability. Every interaction feels deliberate, charged, and slightly unbalanced in a way that keeps you turning the pages.
The characters are deeply flawed and unapologetically messy, which makes their journey feel raw and real. Rather than offering an easy romance, On Edge leans into obsession, power struggles, and emotional scars that shape every decision. The chemistry is dark and gripping, balancing moments of tenderness with an underlying sense of risk. This is a story for readers who crave morally gray characters, high emotional stakes, and a romance that pushes boundaries while exploring what it means to love when you’re already broken
The characters are deeply flawed and unapologetically messy, which makes their journey feel raw and real. Rather than offering an easy romance, On Edge leans into obsession, power struggles, and emotional scars that shape every decision. The chemistry is dark and gripping, balancing moments of tenderness with an underlying sense of risk. This is a story for readers who crave morally gray characters, high emotional stakes, and a romance that pushes boundaries while exploring what it means to love when you’re already broken
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