What do you think?
Rate this book
Breaking Lara: A Tale of Innocence, Obsession, Darkness & Awakening
He’s cheeky menace wrapped in ink and sin. She’s a little ghost with secrets sharp enough to cut.
Derek Carter doesn’t do gentle. He doesn’t do love. Violence is in his veins, torment in his smile, and women are nothing more than bodies he breaks and leaves behind. Men like him don’t protect angels. They ruin them.
Until her.
Lara Morozova—fragile, haunting, silent. A porcelain ghost pulled from hell and dropped into his arms like she already belonged there. She shouldn’t tempt him, not with her wide brown eyes and the way her body listens to him without words. She shouldn’t want the danger in him… but she does.
And Derek? He doesn’t just want her. He wants to corrupt her. To press her up against the darkness until she moans for it. To make her his ruin.
But Lara isn’t only fragile. She’s fire wrapped in silk, her past laced with blood and secrets buried so deep they could bring them all to their knees.
Because when her memories return, Derek won’t just have to fight to keep her.
He’ll have to decide if he can survive her.
A dirty, dangerous romance of innocence, obsession, shadows, and the sweet ache of surrender.
Derek Carter doesn’t do gentle. He doesn’t do love. Violence is in his veins, torment in his smile, and women are nothing more than bodies he breaks and leaves behind. Men like him don’t protect angels. They ruin them.
Until her.
Lara Morozova—fragile, haunting, silent. A porcelain ghost pulled from hell and dropped into his arms like she already belonged there. She shouldn’t tempt him, not with her wide brown eyes and the way her body listens to him without words. She shouldn’t want the danger in him… but she does.
And Derek? He doesn’t just want her. He wants to corrupt her. To press her up against the darkness until she moans for it. To make her his ruin.
But Lara isn’t only fragile. She’s fire wrapped in silk, her past laced with blood and secrets buried so deep they could bring them all to their knees.
Because when her memories return, Derek won’t just have to fight to keep her.
He’ll have to decide if he can survive her.
A dirty, dangerous romance of innocence, obsession, shadows, and the sweet ache of surrender.
- GenresRomance
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2025
About the author
Penny Mappoura-Salmon
5 books53 followersPenny Mappoura-Salmon is an international dark romance author known for writing emotionally intense, addictive stories filled with morally grey men, dangerous devotion, trauma-to-healing romance, and obsession that borders on ruin.
Her bestselling Dark Series blends dark romance, suspense, found family, emotional healing, and possessive antiheroes readers can’t stop thinking about.
Known for emotionally charged relationships, cinematic tension, and fiercely loyal characters, Penny creates stories that explore darkness, survival, love, and the people willing to burn the world down for each other.
When she isn’t writing emotionally devastating fictional men, she can usually be found planning her next special edition obsession, attending signing events, or building the world of DARK one morally questionable man at a time. 🖤
Her bestselling Dark Series blends dark romance, suspense, found family, emotional healing, and possessive antiheroes readers can’t stop thinking about.
Known for emotionally charged relationships, cinematic tension, and fiercely loyal characters, Penny creates stories that explore darkness, survival, love, and the people willing to burn the world down for each other.
When she isn’t writing emotionally devastating fictional men, she can usually be found planning her next special edition obsession, attending signing events, or building the world of DARK one morally questionable man at a time. 🖤
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 16, 2025
"First time, Ghost, and you've already learned. You don't breathe without me. You're ruined now - and I'll keep you ruined." - Derek
Breaking Lara brought all the darkness that I needed.
It's obvious from the start that Derek and Lara share a connection even before any words are spoken. As soon as their eyes connect everything changes. Derek becomes Lara's safety, her everything. At first Derek tries to fight the inevitable but the once womaniser can't get the ethereal, little ghost out of his mind.
I love how Penny tackled Lara's memory loss to her true identity and how it unfolded. The way the two sides of Lara unfolded were such a beautiful contrast.
On one hand you had the Lara that appeared sweet, timid and innocent. Which we learn she is far from that as a trained Russian assain. She also has a robotic, cold side that she can switch to quickly. Lara is literally light and dark.
I loved Lara's strength of character and seeing her grow, develop and find herself throughout Breaking Lara.
With the help of Derek and the girls she really opened up and found herself, learning what she liked and wanted, especially when it came to Derek.
The chemistry between Derek and Lara was intense. And the Halloween scene with Derek, Lara, Elaina and Jake..now that was hot. If you know you know! If you don't, you need to know.
I need a Derek Carter in my life - Cheeky, menacing, filthy and dark to his core.
Breaking Lara brought all the emotions, even humour, especially when Lara was learning how to act and do stuff. The ice lolly scene was hilarious.
Derek and Lara's love was not typical, it was built on pain, obsession and darkness.
That ending? I was not ready for. Bring on Claiming Sabine to see how it all unfolds. I definitely need more of the Dark Series.
Breaking Lara brought all the darkness that I needed.
It's obvious from the start that Derek and Lara share a connection even before any words are spoken. As soon as their eyes connect everything changes. Derek becomes Lara's safety, her everything. At first Derek tries to fight the inevitable but the once womaniser can't get the ethereal, little ghost out of his mind.
I love how Penny tackled Lara's memory loss to her true identity and how it unfolded. The way the two sides of Lara unfolded were such a beautiful contrast.
On one hand you had the Lara that appeared sweet, timid and innocent. Which we learn she is far from that as a trained Russian assain. She also has a robotic, cold side that she can switch to quickly. Lara is literally light and dark.
I loved Lara's strength of character and seeing her grow, develop and find herself throughout Breaking Lara.
With the help of Derek and the girls she really opened up and found herself, learning what she liked and wanted, especially when it came to Derek.
The chemistry between Derek and Lara was intense. And the Halloween scene with Derek, Lara, Elaina and Jake..now that was hot. If you know you know! If you don't, you need to know.
I need a Derek Carter in my life - Cheeky, menacing, filthy and dark to his core.
Breaking Lara brought all the emotions, even humour, especially when Lara was learning how to act and do stuff. The ice lolly scene was hilarious.
Derek and Lara's love was not typical, it was built on pain, obsession and darkness.
That ending? I was not ready for. Bring on Claiming Sabine to see how it all unfolds. I definitely need more of the Dark Series.
December 5, 2025
Phew…What an ending!!! I quite literally can’t wait to read the next book so that I can see what happens next.
This book follows Derek and Lara, the young woman they find and rescue taking her back to the club with them. It’s obvious from the very first page that the connection between Derek and Lara is undeniable, the moment their eyes meet a bond is formed and Derek becomes everything to Lara. Derek initially fights his attraction to Lara with varying success but when he finally breaks…well…you can expect volcanic level spice!
I think that this is my favourite book so far not because I didn’t like the others, they were equally as good. But, for me seeing Lara grow and come into herself and watching her learn and explore her sensuality and sexuality (especially when it comes to her instant attraction to Derek)as well as the juxtaposition between Laras sweet, silent, innocent naivety and the cold, callous, robotic soldier. I’m going to keep this pretty short as its difficult to review without giving spoilers as my favourite parts of the book are pretty specific but this book is the kind of book where you have to expect the unexpected, with violence, banter, love, lust and maybe an intimate piercing or 2. I will say that what Lara has already been through is unimaginable and if anyone deserves a HEA its her and Derek but with danger just around the corner will they all make it through unscathed or will their love come to a heartbreaking end?
This book follows Derek and Lara, the young woman they find and rescue taking her back to the club with them. It’s obvious from the very first page that the connection between Derek and Lara is undeniable, the moment their eyes meet a bond is formed and Derek becomes everything to Lara. Derek initially fights his attraction to Lara with varying success but when he finally breaks…well…you can expect volcanic level spice!
I think that this is my favourite book so far not because I didn’t like the others, they were equally as good. But, for me seeing Lara grow and come into herself and watching her learn and explore her sensuality and sexuality (especially when it comes to her instant attraction to Derek)as well as the juxtaposition between Laras sweet, silent, innocent naivety and the cold, callous, robotic soldier. I’m going to keep this pretty short as its difficult to review without giving spoilers as my favourite parts of the book are pretty specific but this book is the kind of book where you have to expect the unexpected, with violence, banter, love, lust and maybe an intimate piercing or 2. I will say that what Lara has already been through is unimaginable and if anyone deserves a HEA its her and Derek but with danger just around the corner will they all make it through unscathed or will their love come to a heartbreaking end?
June 2, 2026
This book throws you straight into the darkness, and I was hooked from the very first page.
Derek is dark, isolated, and completely comfortable living in the shadows. He craves the darkness and doesn’t want his life to change. Then he meets Lara. She’s the light he never expected, and despite every instinct telling him to stay away, he can’t stop being drawn to her.
Lara broke my heart. She doesn’t speak. She doesn’t know how to find her voice again. Yet somehow, she responds to Derek in ways she can’t with anyone else. The connection between them is immediate, powerful, and impossible to ignore. And his nickname for her? “Likkle Ghost.” 🖤
As Lara’s memories begin to return, everything changes. Watching her piece together who she is and what she’s been through was absolutely devastating. The more she remembers, the more she hates herself. She sees herself as a monster and genuinely believes the world would be better without her. Those scenes hit hard. I genuinely felt that sinking feeling in my stomach and found myself tearing up more than once.
Derek’s reaction when he learns the truth is equally heartbreaking. He feels betrayed, hurt, and convinced she’s made a fool of him. But the moment she’s threatened, none of that matters. When the Syndicate comes for her, every grievance is forgotten. In his mind, Lara is his, and there is no alternative.
The emotional weight of this story is incredible. The trauma, the healing, the guilt, and the self-loathing all feel raw and real. And when Derek finally pulls Lara back from her darkest thoughts and shows her she’s worth fighting for? My heart couldn’t take it.
The chemistry between them is intense, emotional, and seriously hot. When they finally give in to the connection between them, it was everything I wanted it to be.
And that moment when Lara remembers exactly what was taken from her? Chilling. It felt like ice running through my veins.
Heartbreaking, emotional, dark, and completely addictive. I couldn’t stop reading, and by the time the Syndicate came for Lara, I was an emotional wreck.
And the ending????…
Derek is dark, isolated, and completely comfortable living in the shadows. He craves the darkness and doesn’t want his life to change. Then he meets Lara. She’s the light he never expected, and despite every instinct telling him to stay away, he can’t stop being drawn to her.
Lara broke my heart. She doesn’t speak. She doesn’t know how to find her voice again. Yet somehow, she responds to Derek in ways she can’t with anyone else. The connection between them is immediate, powerful, and impossible to ignore. And his nickname for her? “Likkle Ghost.” 🖤
As Lara’s memories begin to return, everything changes. Watching her piece together who she is and what she’s been through was absolutely devastating. The more she remembers, the more she hates herself. She sees herself as a monster and genuinely believes the world would be better without her. Those scenes hit hard. I genuinely felt that sinking feeling in my stomach and found myself tearing up more than once.
Derek’s reaction when he learns the truth is equally heartbreaking. He feels betrayed, hurt, and convinced she’s made a fool of him. But the moment she’s threatened, none of that matters. When the Syndicate comes for her, every grievance is forgotten. In his mind, Lara is his, and there is no alternative.
The emotional weight of this story is incredible. The trauma, the healing, the guilt, and the self-loathing all feel raw and real. And when Derek finally pulls Lara back from her darkest thoughts and shows her she’s worth fighting for? My heart couldn’t take it.
The chemistry between them is intense, emotional, and seriously hot. When they finally give in to the connection between them, it was everything I wanted it to be.
And that moment when Lara remembers exactly what was taken from her? Chilling. It felt like ice running through my veins.
Heartbreaking, emotional, dark, and completely addictive. I couldn’t stop reading, and by the time the Syndicate came for Lara, I was an emotional wreck.
And the ending????…
May 31, 2026
Format: Physical
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
WHAT A WILD BUT BEAUTIFUL RIDE.
Check your trigger warnings.
Derek, a deadly club owner who saves women from human trafficking. When Lara is discovered in one of the busts the connection is instant. The story follows Lara learning who she is and where she comes from and with Derek's help she describes who she wants to be.
💘 Tropes
- Found Family
- Age gap
- Sexual awakening
- Knife play
- MF/MMFF
- Forced Proximity
- Touch her and 💀
💖 What I loved:
- 2 Page trigger warning
- Prelude
- Derek and his filthy mouth
- Discovering the world with Lara
- Found Family and their dynamics
- Halloween 🥵🥵
- The spice (it's a one handed book)
💬 Favourite Romantic Moment:
"I got you. You don’t move unless I say. You don’t hurt alone, not ever again. You bleed, I bleed. You stop breathing and I’ll drag you back myself.”
🎯 Perfect For Readers Who:
Love their stories dark and super spicy and men who scream danger but would burn the world down for the women they love
🌹 Final Thoughts:
The story will break you, put you back together then break you again. It is dark, deals with a lot of trauma and is probably one of the spiciest books I've ever read and the only things that come close is book 1 and 2 of this series. Derek is a menace the add in his brother, Jake and Jake's wife who also love to play and you have scenes that are hotter than the UK sun this week. There's also a scene on Halloween that will forever live in my head from here on now.
However apart from the spice the story of Lara remembering her past, discovering who she is and her awakening is done beautifully and will pull at your heart strings and have you laughing and smiling like a proud mama.
The book ends on a cliffhanger but I loved it so much I'm not even deducting my half a star that I usually would.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
WHAT A WILD BUT BEAUTIFUL RIDE.
Check your trigger warnings.
Derek, a deadly club owner who saves women from human trafficking. When Lara is discovered in one of the busts the connection is instant. The story follows Lara learning who she is and where she comes from and with Derek's help she describes who she wants to be.
💘 Tropes
- Found Family
- Age gap
- Sexual awakening
- Knife play
- MF/MMFF
- Forced Proximity
- Touch her and 💀
💖 What I loved:
- 2 Page trigger warning
- Prelude
- Derek and his filthy mouth
- Discovering the world with Lara
- Found Family and their dynamics
- Halloween 🥵🥵
- The spice (it's a one handed book)
💬 Favourite Romantic Moment:
"I got you. You don’t move unless I say. You don’t hurt alone, not ever again. You bleed, I bleed. You stop breathing and I’ll drag you back myself.”
🎯 Perfect For Readers Who:
Love their stories dark and super spicy and men who scream danger but would burn the world down for the women they love
🌹 Final Thoughts:
The story will break you, put you back together then break you again. It is dark, deals with a lot of trauma and is probably one of the spiciest books I've ever read and the only things that come close is book 1 and 2 of this series. Derek is a menace the add in his brother, Jake and Jake's wife who also love to play and you have scenes that are hotter than the UK sun this week. There's also a scene on Halloween that will forever live in my head from here on now.
However apart from the spice the story of Lara remembering her past, discovering who she is and her awakening is done beautifully and will pull at your heart strings and have you laughing and smiling like a proud mama.
The book ends on a cliffhanger but I loved it so much I'm not even deducting my half a star that I usually would.
June 14, 2026
The prelude describes this book perfectly
5⭐️
5🌶️
FMC - Lara
MMC - Derek
Quote - ‘You want a love story? Wrong fucking book. You want hearts, flowers and safety? Close it now’
The prelude describes this book perfectly
Lara was imprisoned and Derek rescued her.
Lara along with a group of other girls was set to be sold as ‘product’ until Derek and his crew found them and freed them all. Lara is mute with no memory of her past. The other girls have left and gone back to some sort of normality but Lara she doesn’t belong anywhere.
Slowly her memory starts to come back and she’s not the quiet ghost of a woman she once was she’s a monster of someone else’s making.
She is hypnotised by her saviour.
Derek will resist Lara she’s not what he needs and vice versa but he can’t help himself. He will ruin her and himself in return.
I love the found family aspect even more in this third installment of the dark series. The laughter, light and dark of this book is brilliant and helps balance the themes. Lara’s character is so bad ass and Derek is her perfect equal just as strong.
The twists in this book are just edge of your seat and the spice is 👩🏼🍳💋
The ending is pull your hair out you need the next installment straight away.
I’m jumping straight in to ARC read Claiming Sabine I need this next installment 🖤❤️🖤
5⭐️
5🌶️
FMC - Lara
MMC - Derek
Quote - ‘You want a love story? Wrong fucking book. You want hearts, flowers and safety? Close it now’
The prelude describes this book perfectly
Lara was imprisoned and Derek rescued her.
Lara along with a group of other girls was set to be sold as ‘product’ until Derek and his crew found them and freed them all. Lara is mute with no memory of her past. The other girls have left and gone back to some sort of normality but Lara she doesn’t belong anywhere.
Slowly her memory starts to come back and she’s not the quiet ghost of a woman she once was she’s a monster of someone else’s making.
She is hypnotised by her saviour.
Derek will resist Lara she’s not what he needs and vice versa but he can’t help himself. He will ruin her and himself in return.
I love the found family aspect even more in this third installment of the dark series. The laughter, light and dark of this book is brilliant and helps balance the themes. Lara’s character is so bad ass and Derek is her perfect equal just as strong.
The twists in this book are just edge of your seat and the spice is 👩🏼🍳💋
The ending is pull your hair out you need the next installment straight away.
I’m jumping straight in to ARC read Claiming Sabine I need this next installment 🖤❤️🖤
February 2, 2026
She may be pretty but she is dark 🖤🖤
This book was all the darkness I adore 😍
The connection between Lara & Derek was electric before any words were spoken! 🥵
I loved everything about this book.. the chemistry between Lara and Derek was incredible! The possessive and dark personalities were just perfection!
I loved seeing Lara develop and grow as her memories return, seeing the friendships form between Elaina, Aria & Lara was beautiful 😍
Penny you absolutely killed me with that ending! I was floored 😭😭
I NEED to know what happens next 💔
As usual it was an absolute pleasure to read this and I’m obsessed 🖤
I would absolutely recommend that you put this series at the top of your TBR pile 😘
Read this for;
- Touch her and die 💀
- Forbidden obsession 🚫
- Age gap
- Morally Grey MMC 🩶
- Identity Lost
- Dangerous FMC ‼️
- Found family 🩷
- Forced Proximity
- Knife Play 🔪
- Brotherhood
As usual babes, check your trigger warnings 😉💋
This book was all the darkness I adore 😍
The connection between Lara & Derek was electric before any words were spoken! 🥵
I loved everything about this book.. the chemistry between Lara and Derek was incredible! The possessive and dark personalities were just perfection!
I loved seeing Lara develop and grow as her memories return, seeing the friendships form between Elaina, Aria & Lara was beautiful 😍
Penny you absolutely killed me with that ending! I was floored 😭😭
I NEED to know what happens next 💔
As usual it was an absolute pleasure to read this and I’m obsessed 🖤
I would absolutely recommend that you put this series at the top of your TBR pile 😘
Read this for;
- Touch her and die 💀
- Forbidden obsession 🚫
- Age gap
- Morally Grey MMC 🩶
- Identity Lost
- Dangerous FMC ‼️
- Found family 🩷
- Forced Proximity
- Knife Play 🔪
- Brotherhood
As usual babes, check your trigger warnings 😉💋
May 30, 2026
Really enjoyed book 3 in the dark series I think I’m in denial now that I’m nearly finished the series 😭 Derek and Lara I loved , he’s a possessive he craves her and she is besotted with Derek always wanting to please him , loved the dynamic with Lara and Elaina , overall all really good read , it killed me to finish the book only because I didn’t want to be out of this world I love it so much … I was really lucky to get picked to arc read the next book that isn’t out until June so I can’t wait to jump into it
December 16, 2025
OMG 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
Book three in The Dark Series and I’m totally in lust with all these men 😉😉😉😉
Derek, doesn’t do relationships, but why does ‘ghosts’ eyes speak to him????
Ghost (Lara) sees Derek and can’t help but feel comfortable when he’s around, but why?????
This is such a fantastic read with 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵 ‘melting panties’ moments 😮💨😮💨 and such deep and meaningful words…….but what is waiting in the background?????
I can’t wait not wait for the next book, I need more of my men 🤤🤤🤤🤤
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!
Book three in The Dark Series and I’m totally in lust with all these men 😉😉😉😉
Derek, doesn’t do relationships, but why does ‘ghosts’ eyes speak to him????
Ghost (Lara) sees Derek and can’t help but feel comfortable when he’s around, but why?????
This is such a fantastic read with 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵 ‘melting panties’ moments 😮💨😮💨 and such deep and meaningful words…….but what is waiting in the background?????
I can’t wait not wait for the next book, I need more of my men 🤤🤤🤤🤤
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!
March 26, 2026
Penny just hits EVERY time, I absolutely loved this one again. it was intense, sexy and one hell of a rollercoaster. The ending 😭 cannot wait for book 4 now. I loved Derek and Lara and of course loved how all the others were throughout the story too. This series is a MUST read!
February 3, 2026
Oh my! Penny’s books just get better and better!! Derek, the guy who can’t be tamed, finally finds his one. I can’t wait for the next installment!!! Highly recommend The Dark Series, if you haven’t read any of these books…………why not????
May 13, 2026
This is the saddest book of the series so far. Lara is so fragile and lost you can’t help but will her to find herself.
She is the angel to Dereks devil, perfect match.
Need the next book now…
She is the angel to Dereks devil, perfect match.
Need the next book now…
November 30, 2025
'Breaking Lara' by Penny M Salmon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG, this has ruined me!!!
The dark, chaotic, inked devil, Derek, and a tiny white assassin, Lara. From the moment Lara laid her big brown eyes on Derek, there was no going back. He was going to be haunted by her innocence, and she was going to meet her dark devil 😈
Lara was like an alien. She didn't belong in his world, and she was going to discover so much that was kept from her all her life. Just when things are going great and Lara is feeling like part of the family and has a sense of belonging, past demons make an appearance, the syndicate who are going to make her remember.
I just love all the characters from The Dark Series, and all of them make an appearance in Book 3, Elaina, Jake, Alex, Aria, Mark, and even Jakes sister Nicole and her husband Anthony. They all have their parts to play, and Penny's words bring out all their personalities so beautifully and convey her true love for writing, in her characters 🖤
This is honestly a 5⭐️ read for me.
This series has been sensational so far, and there is a Book 4 coming 2026!!!
It has been a hell of a ride.... that I have eaten up the whole way!!!
The spice in this book is off the scale 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 and really explores the deepest darkest desires 🖤😈 Some of my favourite parts of the book 😜🤭😉
Another amazing read 💯 🙌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG, this has ruined me!!!
The dark, chaotic, inked devil, Derek, and a tiny white assassin, Lara. From the moment Lara laid her big brown eyes on Derek, there was no going back. He was going to be haunted by her innocence, and she was going to meet her dark devil 😈
Lara was like an alien. She didn't belong in his world, and she was going to discover so much that was kept from her all her life. Just when things are going great and Lara is feeling like part of the family and has a sense of belonging, past demons make an appearance, the syndicate who are going to make her remember.
I just love all the characters from The Dark Series, and all of them make an appearance in Book 3, Elaina, Jake, Alex, Aria, Mark, and even Jakes sister Nicole and her husband Anthony. They all have their parts to play, and Penny's words bring out all their personalities so beautifully and convey her true love for writing, in her characters 🖤
This is honestly a 5⭐️ read for me.
This series has been sensational so far, and there is a Book 4 coming 2026!!!
It has been a hell of a ride.... that I have eaten up the whole way!!!
The spice in this book is off the scale 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 and really explores the deepest darkest desires 🖤😈 Some of my favourite parts of the book 😜🤭😉
Another amazing read 💯 🙌
April 6, 2026
This book didn’t just break me...It owned me.
A mute FMC who’s quiet, vulnerable, easy to underestimate, but underneath? She’s fierce in a way that sneaks up on you.
Then the MMC… cheeky, unhinged, living for a good time. No attachment. No love.
And somehow… these two become the most perfect, unexpected duo.
The dynamic? Chaotic, emotional, and surprisingly funny.
The banter had me smiling, the found family hit me right in the heart, and the loyalty between them made it even more special.
And the spice? 🫦🥵
Easily one of the spiciest books I’ve read but it fits the story perfectly.
Penny's writing is honestly beautiful. She creates this quiet intensity in emotional moments where you feel everything… even in silence.
And when the action hits? You physically cannot put it down.
And that ending…
Just when you think you’ve got a grip on things, it shifts, and suddenly you’re spiralling with them.
That cliffhanger?? I NEED book 4.
A definite 5 star read...I’m obsessed. 🔥🖤😍
A mute FMC who’s quiet, vulnerable, easy to underestimate, but underneath? She’s fierce in a way that sneaks up on you.
Then the MMC… cheeky, unhinged, living for a good time. No attachment. No love.
And somehow… these two become the most perfect, unexpected duo.
The dynamic? Chaotic, emotional, and surprisingly funny.
The banter had me smiling, the found family hit me right in the heart, and the loyalty between them made it even more special.
And the spice? 🫦🥵
Easily one of the spiciest books I’ve read but it fits the story perfectly.
Penny's writing is honestly beautiful. She creates this quiet intensity in emotional moments where you feel everything… even in silence.
And when the action hits? You physically cannot put it down.
And that ending…
Just when you think you’ve got a grip on things, it shifts, and suddenly you’re spiralling with them.
That cliffhanger?? I NEED book 4.
A definite 5 star read...I’m obsessed. 🔥🖤😍
April 3, 2026
So I’m firmly team derek, no questions asked. 🔥
This book made me feel absolutely everything.
Lara is amazing-her turn around at one time shook me and I think I was as shocked as derek was 😂
Derek is a beast of a man who is possessive but also pushes Lara to open her mind and explore herself but in the best possible way.
Elaina is a menace and I love her. 😍
The ending tore my heart out and honestly I can’t believe it was left on that cliffhanger! I need more asap.
Penny did amazing with this set of books and I am so excited to see how marks story plays out because he’s gonna f**k shizzzzz up I can feel it 😏😂
This book made me feel absolutely everything.
Lara is amazing-her turn around at one time shook me and I think I was as shocked as derek was 😂
Derek is a beast of a man who is possessive but also pushes Lara to open her mind and explore herself but in the best possible way.
Elaina is a menace and I love her. 😍
The ending tore my heart out and honestly I can’t believe it was left on that cliffhanger! I need more asap.
Penny did amazing with this set of books and I am so excited to see how marks story plays out because he’s gonna f**k shizzzzz up I can feel it 😏😂
May 25, 2026
Ermmmmm, the ending?????? I’m invested, I am part of them now and I was left stressed!!!! And then I officially met Penny, and I thank this book for that 🖤
Breaking Lara was different, it was the unknown, the learning AND THEN A HELL OF A LOAD OF SPICE!! THE MARKING!!! 🔪
Big shout out to Halloween 🥵🎃 Oh and being at a table eating dinner???? WOW
This was a different kind of love, a different kind of possessive, but it was fulfilling and everything they both never knew they needed, I love Derek and Lara🖤
Breaking Lara was different, it was the unknown, the learning AND THEN A HELL OF A LOAD OF SPICE!! THE MARKING!!! 🔪
Big shout out to Halloween 🥵🎃 Oh and being at a table eating dinner???? WOW
This was a different kind of love, a different kind of possessive, but it was fulfilling and everything they both never knew they needed, I love Derek and Lara🖤
June 1, 2026
I will do my best to keep this spoiler free. lets just say penny got lots of messages while i read this one. Breaking Lara has taken the spot for my favourite book, once I started I couldn't put it down.
This time it was Derek's turn to be at the front and centre and ooooh what a man he is, Lara oh how I love you, you are so innocent and quiet to begin with, then as time goes on you have no filter, if it is in your head it comes out your mouth, Derek corrupted you and I am here for it. Lara, Derek and the rest of the family go through so much in this book, Lara has demons from her past that she is overcoming, which the family support her through.
Alex nearly fighting a ice lolly was something I didn't know I needed. Also that Halloween scene wowwwwwwww
This book absolutely ruined me, I was not ready for the ending I even sent penny regular updates and a picture, also politley demanded that I needed the ARC for Claming Sabine because I can not I REPEAT can not leave it on that level of a cliffhanger and not disapear into the abyss of what do I do with my life now.
This time it was Derek's turn to be at the front and centre and ooooh what a man he is, Lara oh how I love you, you are so innocent and quiet to begin with, then as time goes on you have no filter, if it is in your head it comes out your mouth, Derek corrupted you and I am here for it. Lara, Derek and the rest of the family go through so much in this book, Lara has demons from her past that she is overcoming, which the family support her through.
Alex nearly fighting a ice lolly was something I didn't know I needed. Also that Halloween scene wowwwwwwww
This book absolutely ruined me, I was not ready for the ending I even sent penny regular updates and a picture, also politley demanded that I needed the ARC for Claming Sabine because I can not I REPEAT can not leave it on that level of a cliffhanger and not disapear into the abyss of what do I do with my life now.
June 3, 2026
This ending ruined me in the best way. The story along the way was anadventure in recouvery and opening yourself to someone. The way that this story unfolds is perfection the self descouvery of someone that has nothing to who she starts to show.
The FMC and MMC are an amazing couple who need far more to themsesleves and need a lot more. The overall pacing of the book was well done it kept the story going flowing well while passign time to make things work. The darker themes in this book where amazingly done and kept up with the other books becomming darker then the secound book in this series. The relationships all flowed perfectly and the found family aspect of it was very well written and every single charictor is there for a reasion and even when they feel like they dont fit, like proper friends and family they make sure that the person feels seen and comfertable. This makes the banter top notch and definatly had me kicking my feet and giggling.
The FMC and MMC are an amazing couple who need far more to themsesleves and need a lot more. The overall pacing of the book was well done it kept the story going flowing well while passign time to make things work. The darker themes in this book where amazingly done and kept up with the other books becomming darker then the secound book in this series. The relationships all flowed perfectly and the found family aspect of it was very well written and every single charictor is there for a reasion and even when they feel like they dont fit, like proper friends and family they make sure that the person feels seen and comfertable. This makes the banter top notch and definatly had me kicking my feet and giggling.
August 21, 2026
a cliff edge that keeps your reading
I love the characters in this series. They a familiar and you route for their survival.
Another unfinished story, meaning that you dive straight into the next one, but with unfinished plots from the previous book, I am wondering if this is a great style of cliff edge writing or a ploy to keep you reading/ buying the books. I will say I did not see the twist happening at the end and verbally gasped, so kudos to you Penny!
Again, a few editing issues upsetting the reading flow. There are a great number of beta readers who can help with this, you only have to find your audience and ask. Most will do it for reading pleasure.
I look forward to seeing where the rest of the series takes Lara and Derek. A well written plot where you can fully visualise the characters, the environment and the club.
Well done Penny!
I love the characters in this series. They a familiar and you route for their survival.
Another unfinished story, meaning that you dive straight into the next one, but with unfinished plots from the previous book, I am wondering if this is a great style of cliff edge writing or a ploy to keep you reading/ buying the books. I will say I did not see the twist happening at the end and verbally gasped, so kudos to you Penny!
Again, a few editing issues upsetting the reading flow. There are a great number of beta readers who can help with this, you only have to find your audience and ask. Most will do it for reading pleasure.
I look forward to seeing where the rest of the series takes Lara and Derek. A well written plot where you can fully visualise the characters, the environment and the club.
Well done Penny!
August 5, 2026
4.5 stars ~ Wow, what an incredible read. I’m running to download Claiming Sabine. Especially after the ending !
I loved seeing Lara grow from her silent, innocent self. Grow & gain more confidence & come into her own.
The connection between her & Derek was so strong.
I can’t give too much detail as it will give too many spoilers but I’m hoping & praying that both Lara & Derek will get their HEA.
Lara has already been through the unthinkable. If anyone deserves a HEA it’s her and Derek.
For anyone who has read the other books in The dark series knows that Penny will deliver all the twists & turns that will keep us hooked.
With danger just around the corner we’re in for one heck of a ride………. Hold on tight 🖤
I loved seeing Lara grow from her silent, innocent self. Grow & gain more confidence & come into her own.
The connection between her & Derek was so strong.
I can’t give too much detail as it will give too many spoilers but I’m hoping & praying that both Lara & Derek will get their HEA.
Lara has already been through the unthinkable. If anyone deserves a HEA it’s her and Derek.
For anyone who has read the other books in The dark series knows that Penny will deliver all the twists & turns that will keep us hooked.
With danger just around the corner we’re in for one heck of a ride………. Hold on tight 🖤
June 10, 2026
My heart hurts for poor sweet Lara what a beautiful soul caught in such a tragic situation! The things that girl has gone through should never happen to anyone.
Derek is the sweetest roughest man and I just want him to be happy!
The chasing through the club scene with Elaina and Jake was one of the spicest things I've ever read and I was totally here for it!
Absolutely cannot cope waiting for the fourth book. I am gagging to know what's happening to Lara, my heart broke for Derek watching his heart just walk out the door! It broke me.
Come on Claiming Sabine I cannot contain my excitement!
Derek is the sweetest roughest man and I just want him to be happy!
The chasing through the club scene with Elaina and Jake was one of the spicest things I've ever read and I was totally here for it!
Absolutely cannot cope waiting for the fourth book. I am gagging to know what's happening to Lara, my heart broke for Derek watching his heart just walk out the door! It broke me.
Come on Claiming Sabine I cannot contain my excitement!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2026
Breaking Lara is book three in the Dark Series, and I highly recommend reading book two before starting this one, as it follows directly on from the cliffhanger.
I loved how Derek tried to fight the connection he so obviously shares with Lara. He’s always been the womaniser of the series, but she is the one who could change all of that — and as they say, people don’t like change.
I absolutely adore Lara. She is effortlessly funny, without even realising it herself. I love how Penny has written her character; even though Lara doesn’t do much talking at the beginning of the book, you can’t help but love her. You see her grow and evolve from someone who comes across as sweet, timid, and innocent, into someone who can, at the flip of a switch, become robotic, cold, and completely kick-ass.
That Halloween scene… OMG. FIRE 🔥🔥🔥
That’s all I’m saying — you need to read it.
And that ending! Once again, Penny, why are you doing this to me? Now I have to wait for book four, but I know it will be worth it.
Each book in the series introduces the man who will be the MMC in the next book, so I was hoping for a little more Mark in preparation for book four. However, he is the dark, mysterious type, so I guess it’s no surprise.
I loved how Derek tried to fight the connection he so obviously shares with Lara. He’s always been the womaniser of the series, but she is the one who could change all of that — and as they say, people don’t like change.
I absolutely adore Lara. She is effortlessly funny, without even realising it herself. I love how Penny has written her character; even though Lara doesn’t do much talking at the beginning of the book, you can’t help but love her. You see her grow and evolve from someone who comes across as sweet, timid, and innocent, into someone who can, at the flip of a switch, become robotic, cold, and completely kick-ass.
That Halloween scene… OMG. FIRE 🔥🔥🔥
That’s all I’m saying — you need to read it.
And that ending! Once again, Penny, why are you doing this to me? Now I have to wait for book four, but I know it will be worth it.
Each book in the series introduces the man who will be the MMC in the next book, so I was hoping for a little more Mark in preparation for book four. However, he is the dark, mysterious type, so I guess it’s no surprise.
June 8, 2026
I absolutely love this series. Aria is brilliant in every way. Her development throughout has been brilliant and the no filter had me chuckling 🤭. Derek, his inner battle and then acceptance was so hard warming. Both of them together is a force to be reckoned with. So glad i waited to read this one as i need to dive straight into Claiming Sabine. I need to know what happens next.
June 1, 2026
Breaking Lara has lived through everything no human being should have to go through...
Lara touches the hearts of the Dark Series Family and maybe also breaks their hearts. This book is not to be missed and leads perfectly into the sequel of Claiming Sabine Part 1 and 2.
Lara touches the hearts of the Dark Series Family and maybe also breaks their hearts. This book is not to be missed and leads perfectly into the sequel of Claiming Sabine Part 1 and 2.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews