The Siren's Pact

by Leah Angelo

'If you want a dark romance with emotional depth and a world that feels fully alive, this one is worth picking up.'

POWER TAKEN IN DESPERATION
BECOMES ITS OWN CAGESerina longs for freedom, but it comes at a price. Bound by a demon’s bargain, she must seduce the King of Hierythia, bear his heir, and navigate a deadly game where angels and devils pull the strings.

The King is nothing like she expected, and every choice drags her deeper into sin, obsession, and the very forces she once feared. In a dark world where desire and power collide, nothing is safe, and every decision carries a cost.

In a battle where possession and freedom are entwined, love may be the most dangerous game of all.

The Siren's Pact is a dark romance fantasy set in a ruthless society, a story of power, sin, and obsession.It depicts trauma and sensitive themes that may be triggering. Readers are encouraged to review the following trigger warnings and proceed with awareness.Trigger Warnings

Genres: Romantasy, Dark Fantasy

471 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 6, 2025

About the author

Leah Angelo has been passionate about writing since she was nine, starting with her first story and spending her teenage years creating fanfiction. A lover of all things dark, she has always been drawn to fantasy and dark romance, exploring stories that lean into the messier sides of emotion.

Based in Barcelona, Leah studied Contemporary Art History, which deepened her appreciation for art, museums and visual storytelling. When she isn’t writing, she can usually be found visiting exhibitions, sketching ideas or reading the latest fantasy or dark romance novels.

Leah writes for readers who enjoy a hint of darkness, emotional depth and the pull of worlds where love can be both complicated and compelling.

Reviews

[SAV · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to read this book, I really enjoyed the storyline and where it was headed, I liked the romance between the characters and especially how kind the mmc was. I think I just wish that more had happened throughout the book in terms of the plot but considering this is the authors first book from the looks of it I think she did great!

[Kaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ugh, the slow burn in this book? It had me feral. You could feel the tension between Rhylis and Serina crackling off the page. The way that man is obsessed with our girl, H O T.

And listen… I refuse to finish this review without screaming about BRON, the true MVP. His sarcasm? Immaculate. His wit? Flawless. His secretly-soft, totally-ride-or-die caring side? I would like to wrap him in a blanket and protect him at all costs.

I was just as much hooked on the world building of this book as I was the characters. Everything felt vivid without ever being info-dumpy. I was hooked on every detail.

Overall, a delicious slow burn with addictive tension, demon bargains, and characters that latch onto your heart.

Would absolutely read the sequel the second it exists!

[Jessica Jesinghaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely addicting & enthralling

I devoured this book! Serina and Rhylis have a chemistry that is off-the-charts intense. From their very first meeting, I knew I was in for a treat.

Serina is a slave, sold to a brothel at the age of 15, and desperate for a way out. So when she's approached by the fallen angel Asmodeus and offered her freedom in exchange for seducing the king of a neighboring kingdom she jumps at the chance. He promises her a power which will help her in her mission, but will she use it? Can she afford to?

But the king, Rhylis, isn't at all what she expected. Not only is he devastatingly handsome, but in his kingdom slavery has been abolished and he does everything in his power to give her the freedom to return home with him. His need for control masks a sexual darkness I couldn't wait to see come to light.

They both have secrets and watching their verbal sparring matches (and later their physical ones) was delicious. It's clear Rhylis wants her, but waiting for it to actually happen was a devious torment. Combine this tension with the politics of the realm and the machinations of fallen angels, and you have a high-stakes fantasy romance with kingdoms, lives, and hearts on the line.

As part of a duology, this installment does end on a cliffhanger, so be prepared. But don't let that dissuade you from diving into Serina & Rhylis's world. The re-read potential is high (trust me, you won't mind revisiting a few specific chapters).

**I received an advance review copy of this book from the author for which I voluntarily chose to write an unbiased review.**

[Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“My King, my anchor, my ruin.” 🥹🥹

The Siren’s Pact has me kicking my feet, twirling my hair, and actively considering making questionable life choices.
This isn’t a slow burn — this is a slow striptease, emotionally and spiritually, and I am absolutely the target audience.

Serina?
My queen. My warrior. My emotional support menace. She’s tough enough to break you, soft enough to ruin you, and loyal enough to make you ask for the ruining. The way she loves? The way she fights? I would simply pass away.
And RHYLIS.
RHYLIS.
This man walks onto the page like a sin in human form. Every scene he’s in feels like someone dimmed the lights and turned on a fan. He knows he’s hot, he knows Serina knows he’s hot, and he is SO down bad he’s practically serving “take me, I’m yours” energy on a silver platter.

The way he looks at her? Illegal.
The way he wants her to claim him while he claims her? I had to put the book down and stare at the ceiling like I just got personally attacked.
And let’s not pretend — the man has… capabilities. Stamina? Skills? Intentions? Pick your poison. Or all three. I’m not judging.
This is a duology and I am FOAMING at the mouth waiting for book two. Unwell. Deranged. Spiritually compromised.

Now. BRON.
I was NOT prepared for Bron to sneak up and become my emotional support side piece. He’s hilarious, charming, annoyingly lovable, and gives off that “will flirt with you just to make you laugh” energy. I need more of him. Preferably a lot more.
10/10.
I need the physical copy in my hands so I can annotate, highlight, tab every unholy moment, and maybe—just maybe—use it to fan myself.

[Aria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Siren's Pact by Leah Angelo is a stunning 5-star dark romantasy that hooked from the very beginning and did not let go. The story is fabulously written, full of aching yearning, tragic pasts, and the kind of trauma that feels raw and real on the page, all wrapped in lush, immersive prose. The emotional depth is incredible—there were moments that genuinely brought tears, thanks to how complicated, messy, and beautifully human the characters and their choices are. Both leads are layered and deeply scarred, and watching them navigate their pain, desires, and impossible bargains is utterly compelling. The chemistry is intense and slow-burning, threaded with vulnerability and tension that makes every interaction feel charged. The world itself—full of demons, royal courts, and high-stakes promises—adds another level of richness and danger to their bond. This is the kind of book that leaves a mark: atmospheric, emotional, and impossible to put down. Siren's Pact is a fabulous start to the Crimson Duology, and it has left an urgent need to know what happens next. Absolutely cannot wait for the sequel. I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Eva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was one that I had actually put off reading just because I wasn’t too interested at the time in reading it but once I actually picked it up I legit did not want to put it down. This is a wonderful slow burn 🔥 and the spice is not too much that you’re uncomfortable reading it because like I said it’s a slow burn that burns slowww and I love it! ❤️ The language is here and there, not a lot of it but there is a couple F words that were added. I would like to see more of Bron if later books are to be added or at least give him his own book and story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emma Ussery · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Siren’s Pact was captivating, bewitching, and so intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat reading this book! I am a HUGE fan of world building, which I think was one of my favorite aspects. We love a morally grey character btw!👀
•Serina finds herself in position longing for freedom but has to overcome trials where she is bound by a Demon’s bargain•
Twists, turns, and everything in between are showcased in this book, I cannot wait for the next book! (Duology)

I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest and unbiased review!

[Book Obsessed Susanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so so lucky to be asked to be an ARC reader for this Book.. because wow! Definitely 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!! If I wasn't so busy I would have read it in one sitting. The writing style, plot and characters made me want to keep reading! I loved the FMC, Sarina, such a badass and don't get me started about the MMC, Rhylis 🥵🔥!! Also loved Bron 😍, he is amazing! This book has an awesome plot, lots of banter and yearning, very well written characters and spicing spice🌶 (which was very nicely written)!! The cliffhanger though 😫😫.. I can't wait for the next book!!

[Kassie Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing! A page turner, also the slow burn??????? AMAZING.
Slow burn✔️
Side characters with actual depth✔️
Super hot mmc✔️
This was a FUN time

[Bri West · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has me in a CHOKEHOLD. And yes i’m looking at you Rhylis. Squeeze harder my king.

This dark paranormal romance duology is just getting started. I love that we see the Seven Cursed (fallen angels, each one with a deadly sin) playing chess against the Seven Holy , basically the world a pawn in their game of purity vs sin.

Our FMC is a survivor and she’s made a deal with the devil. Too bad she’s falling for her mark, King Rhylis. They both have trauma they’re working through, both hiding dark secrets and both becoming feral and obsessed with one another. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their banter? Witty and tension fueled. The slow burn? AGONIZING.

There’s court politics, betrayals, interference from the Angels / Demons and I believe the whole game is about to change.

Serina, a slave sold by her uncle at the age of 15, finally has a chance at freedom but it means making a deal with Asmodeus (lust). He wants her to marry the king and produce an heir, in return her freedom. He grants her the power to control with the word please.

Unfortunately for her, it doesn’t work on her target. King Rhylis. He isn’t at all what she excepted. He’s patient, kind to his people, fighting to make his kingdom a better place and wants her to always make her own choice.

Now she’s playing a dangerous game, not only with her life but her heart. Be prepared, this is the first part of the duology and leaves on a cliffhanger. Thankfully I was granted the eARC for both books from the author and will be immediately starting it!

Tropes:
- Dark romantasy
- Devilish bargains
- Morally grey MMC
- Feminine Rage


Favorite Quotes:
- "When you beg for my touch, siren." My fingers reached for him, but he unhooked them from his shirt one by one. "When only the thought of me gets you wet, and the only fear left in those beautiful eyes is the kind I give you, then I might give you what you think you want. And more."
- I hoped Asmodeus had coffee in Hell. Burning for eternity would be difficult without it.
- "You are my thing." Rhylis kissed my cheek. "My little, beautiful thing to prey on." His lips moved to the corner of my eye. "To tease." He kissed my forehead. "To feed." To the tip of my nose. "To protect and care for." His lips loomed over mine. "To raise an altar and worship on my knees. Mine." His eyes locked with mine. "I'm exactly where I want to be, Serina."
- "If I tell you to sit, Serina," he said, wrapping his arms around my thighs and crushing me to him. "You will sit on my face and make it your throne."




Trigger Warnings:
This story contains scenes and references involving graphic violence, gore, and bodily harm; murder, torture, and other forms of brutality; explicit sexual content including BDSM dynamics, dominance and submission, rough sex, breath play, and fear play; themes of consensual non-consent and dubious consent; mentions of sexual assault, sexual slavery, and trafficking; off-page and remembered child sexual abuse, grooming, and exploitation; trauma, PTSD, and coercive or abusive power dynamics; imprisonment, emotional and
physical abuse, and references to torture; intense jealousy, obsession, and possessiveness; suicidal thoughts, death, grief, and mourning; religious and mythological trauma; blood drinking, demonic entities, infernal bargains, and psychological or theological horror.

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨🌊 ARC Review: The Siren’s Pact by Leah Angelo 🌊✨
I had the absolute pleasure of ARC reading The Siren’s Pact, and WOW I loved every single minute of it! Leah Angelo has such a powerful way of writing trauma, grief, and healing with so much care and emotional depth. Even while touching on heavy topics like sex slavery and injustice, the story never lost its heart.
UGH. Don’t get me started on that banter, that chemistry, The FMC and MMC had me kicking my feet and giggling. Hehehe That slow burn was slow burning in the best possible way. 🔥That spice. 🥵
From page one, I was hooked and fully invested, fully obsessed, fully unable to put this book down. But that cliffhanger??
Excuse me, WHAT DO YOU MEAN it ends like that!? I need more immediately, please and thank you. 😭

*Fav characters: Rhylis, Bron
*Fav quotes:
~“Maybe the Cursed were not the villains in this story. I also knew what it meant to have your wings clipped and be parted from everything you once knew.”
~“Serina had lived a life that should’ve reduced her to ashes. Instead, she burned brighter, like an unwavering light. A siren who not only lured me, but engraved herself so deeply that ten days felt like a fucking eternity.“
~“Her name is Serina.”—“And it is my honor to sit beside her.”
~“I’m even jealous of the fucking air you breathe, Serina —And you know why?”—“Because it gets to be constantly inside you. In your veins. In your blood. Touching every part of you.”—“And I fucking hate it, because that should be me.”
~“I would not let the world take him from me.“
~“I knew that place, the emptiness where you hide when there’s nothing left.”
~“Because you are not my chain, Rhylis.”—“You’re my anchor”
~“You’re my ruin. Mine. In this life, the next, and every fucking one after that. I’ll always chain you back to me.”
*Fav scenes: The Carraige. The Ocean. The intruder. IYKYK
I seriously can’t believe it ended like that!

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Splashy, Sassy Dive into Danger

The Siren’s Pact by Leah Angelo is the kind of book that makes you suspicious of every large body of water afterward—not because you fear drowning, but because you might accidentally enter a binding supernatural agreement with a very attractive sea creature.

Angelo reels you in (yes, I’m doing ocean puns; no, I’m not sorry) with a story full of tension, charm, and a surprising amount of attitude for a book featuring creatures who technically don’t need lungs. The heroine’s journey is equal parts perilous, emotional, and “ma’am, please stop making deals with things that have fins.” Meanwhile, the siren at the center of it all manages to be alluring, dangerous, and just morally questionable enough to keep things spicy without requiring a therapist on standby.

The pacing is brisk, the romance is deliciously chaotic, and the world-building is immersive—like being pulled underwater, minus the drowning panic. My only real complaint is that a couple of emotional beats flash by so fast you might miss them if you blink. But honestly? The ride is so fun you won’t mind paddling back.

A witty, mystical, saltwater-soaked gem. Four stars, because this book charmed me almost as much as its siren charms the protagonist… almost.

[Kate Armstrong · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story follows Serena, a girl who’s spent her life longing for freedom after being sold into a life she never chose. When her desperate prayers are answered by one of the seven devils, she’s offered a dangerous bargain—one that could finally give her the freedom she’s always wanted… if she survives it.

As part of the deal, she’s thrust into the royal world of Heirythia, where she meets the broody King Rhylis. What starts as guarded tension slowly shifts as she begins to see there’s more to him than meets the eye. The more time she spends in this world, the more she uncovers about the power struggle between angels and demons—and just how deeply she’s entangled in it.

It took me about 50–100 pages to fully get into this one, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down.

Serena is such a strong FMC. She’s been through so much, but still finds the strength to trust and open her heart, which I really admired. And Rhylis? A soft, misunderstood king trying to do right by his people—I loved him.

The angels vs. demons dynamic adds such an interesting layer to the story, especially as things start to unfold.

And that ending?? A cliffhanger. I need book two immediately I’m so excited for the ARC!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sirens Pact Review
Spoiler free

I was gifted this ARC by Leah Angelo and what a gem it was!! This story follows our FMC, Serina who is a slave who works at a brothel. She makes a bargain with a demon that will change everything. She must seduce the King, produce his heir, and navigate the game of court life.

The king is nothing like you would expect a king to be. He is obsessive, morally grey, and completely gone for his “siren”. He will ☠️ anyone who so much as looks at her wrong. While she’s trying to not fall in love while keeping this bargain, he’s trying to keep her. Forever. He doesn’t care what anyone has to say about it. I loved him so freaking much. His dirty mouth, his kindness to “slaves” and how much he will do anything for his girl.

This gem is out on Dec 6th and it’s a must read! It does end on a pretty big cliffy ( I was cursing you maam!) but hopefully Leah won’t keep us hanging on the last of this duet long! Thank you so much for making me apart of the ARC team! So pumped to see where this goes.

4.5⭐️
3.8 🌶️

[R Rais · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hmmm....i always love finding new author to fall in love with.
The giddy excited feeling in every page, is just never gotten old.
Love how the author take us in the journey of Serina & Rhylis. The siren & the scepter. The king & the former slave.

Their chemistry was sweet, sexy and so deliciously dark and dominating.
I see in some review said slow burn,but i have to disagree. For me thats Rhylis being an absolute MAN. He see her trauma. He see the chain of fear that shackle Serina. He waited, he planted him self in her with every little touch, with every banter. He sees her and make sure she feel and knows she is safe with him whatever happen. That right there is what a man should do!

And it doesnt hurt either when he go all, “You will sit on my face and make it your throne.”....😂🔥🔥🔥💃

And Serina...oh this girl!
Her no filter mouth. Her fire. Her rage. Her secret. And the game she was forced to play.

I need book two yesterday!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen Hunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story pulled me in with its vivid world-building. Each region has its own laws, beliefs, and class structures, and the writing makes every setting feel tangible. Serina is a compelling heroine who keeps pushing against the chains life tries to put on her—first in the brothel, then through her deal with a demon. Rhylis stands out as strong, steady, and protective, not only toward her but toward his people.

Their chemistry is clear from the start and grows slowly, consistently simmering with potential. One of the most memorable moments for me was the way he cared for her after her first orgasm on the beach. It showed the softer layer beneath all the darkness.

Identity and choice are explored with real care. The pacing stays steady, keeping me engaged without rushing. The ending surprised me—it hooked me completely and sets up the next book beautifully. I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy dark romance with angel and demon mythology woven through the plot.

[Alana Vera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book… I’ve been sitting here staring into space trying to figure out what to write. Feeling like my words just won’t do this masterpiece the justice it deserves. To say this book had me in a chokehold, would be a massive understatement. It is so beautifully written, with top tier banter, captivating world building and a story that had me needing to know what happens next. It was such a perfectly written debut dark romantasy by Leah and I can’t wait to read the next book. The angst, the passion, the spice were so good. This book had me giggling, crying and ignoring my own reality completely.

A deal with one of the Seven Damned.. might just be Serina’s best and worst mistake. Can love overrule? Will she survive or be damned for good? Freedom isn’t always what you expect. Sometimes it’s finding an anchor rather than chains.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Doris Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m still recovering from the wreckage this book left behind. This was my first ACR book, and wow—what an introduction.

From the very first page, the author throws you headfirst into a world of deadly bargains, irresistible tension, and a love story that completely consumes you. It’s the kind of romance you fall hard for… only to be absolutely destroyed by the way it ends.

If you’re looking for a book that makes you say “just one more chapter” but suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and you’re still turning pages, this is that book. Addictive, emotional, and impossible to put down.

Highly recommend if you’re ready to be wrecked in the best way. 💔📚✨

[S.J. Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! This was an amazing read, and I couldn’t get enough of it. With enough description to feel fully immersed and the complexity of the characters… it was magical.

Leah truly brings the story alive with the words on these pages. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to read a book in one sitting. Not to mention the banter is impeccable.

It’s safe to say Bron is my favourite character in this book—snarky comebacks and unrelenting loyalty.

That cliff hanger?? I need MORE.


Favourite quotes:

“When the day came, she would have to cut me out of her to make me stop.”

“For the first time in a long while, the world felt a little less cruel.”

[Crista Sedlacek · Rating 5 out of 5]

The moment that Serina made a deal with the devil I was HOOKED on this book. Holy shit, theres a super hot Morally Grey King, he's possessive, he's hot, he'll kill if you touch her...what more do you need? There was so much emotion that this book brought up, hearing about the rough life Serina lived and then hearing what happened to Rhylis was heart wrenching. The tension between the two characters drove me wild 😅

There will be a second to this book thank god because the ending had me in a choke hold!!! If you don't like a cliff hangers than this isn't the book for you. But if you want to read a book that will keep you hooked the entire time, pick this one up!!

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

That ending was brutal 😭😭😭

This was such a beautiful book that takes you on emotional rollercoaster!! Everything about this book was just perfect. The writing was sooo good that it’s like you’re there with the characters feeling everything they feel.

The romance and slow burn between Rhylis and Serina was perfect! The character growth for Serina was very emotional and I loved everything about it. And Rhylis…there goes my list of book boyfriends!! And can we just talk about Bron??? Just the perfect character both the MCs needed!

I’m glad I have the ARC for book 2 cause I’m diving into it right away!!

[Cici Zhen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a dark, gripping story between the King of Lust and his siren (and downfall). It felt like a vicious game they were playing half the time, but he was morally grey and possessive of her (it was toxic but so what). the formatting was a bit weird, but despite that, everything was good. i couldn't really sense the tension, until it came to lust and desire when they both refused to back down.
overall, a good dark-romance.

I received a free copy of this ARC in exchange for a honest review.

[Ali McMillin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had a strong hold on me. I couldn’t put it down! I read it in two sittings, only because sleep took over me last night. The story between Rhylis and Serina was so amazing & infuriating. The hot and cold. The defiance. The obsession. It was perfect. Serina’s pact always looming in the back of her mind. The detail, the world building, & the creativity were truly wonderful. I’ve never been so strongly pulled into a book before. 5 star read for sure, I highly recommend this book!

[Elce · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I loved this book, I enjoyed both views of the two main characters and the relationships around them
It was a hot read, good writing and really well paced.
I tried to savour it as much as I could but I honestly just couldn’t put it down and now I’m sad it’s over!
Finished on an awesome cliffhanger and even without that, I was keen to keep reading more.
Already can’t wait for the next book to come out.

[Ana Ferreira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhylis and Serina will have a place in my heart forever❤️ I genuinely loved them so much, the trauma that both carry, the tension, the banter, the way he protects her, and cares for her while being unhinged if someone tries to hurt her, a strong fmc, the love... I don't have enough words to say how much I love them and I can't wait for book2.

"Because you are not my chain, Rhylis"
"You're my anchor." 🥹🥹

[Miguel Pinto · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Siren’s Pact is one of those books that pulls you into an emotional abyss where danger and desire walk hand in hand. The author builds a dark, seductive, and irresistible world, where every page whispers either a promise… or a warning.
The Siren’s Pact isn’t just a story… it’s an experience. One that leaves a mark.
Please...we need the second one...

[Saskia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an arc of this and it didn’t disappoint!!! Omg I absolutely loved this book! I absolutely fell in love with the characters! The story was so well written it was captured from the very start!
The ending though!!!! I need to know asap what happens that was a brutal cliffhanger 😭🖤

[Deanna Padget · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word: RESTRAINT. This man holds himself back like his life depends on it, the way he is OBSESSED WITH HER! The tension between them is top notch.

I loved how there is a world within a world the Seven Holy and the Seven Sin rule the realm and pull their strings of fate.

This was a solid and quick read that pulls you in, I will definitely pick up the second book!

[Kiera · Rating 3 out of 5]

"𝕽𝖍𝖞𝖑𝖎𝖘 𝖜𝖆𝖘 𝖗𝖚𝖎𝖓 𝖒𝖆𝖉𝖊 𝖋𝖑𝖊𝖘𝖍.
𝕬𝖓𝖉 𝕴 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖊𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖗𝖚𝖎𝖓 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖒𝖞𝖘𝖊𝖑𝖋."

This book was absolutely a dark romantasy than leaned more dark romance than fantasy at times (be sure to check TW's). ♡
Readers who love tension, twists/turns, darker themes and a literal FMC who is bound by a demon's bargain will love this book. ♡

[Katarina Botkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this ARC read! The story was interesting and hard to put down. Slowwww burn, touch her and d!e, morally grey, Angels and Devils, bargins and a wild cliff hanger! I already can't wait for the next book, I need answers and a shelf trophy!!