Blackmail and Other Turn Ons: A Dark Rom-Com

by Keary T.

Willow Vale reads tarot, thirsts on TikTok, and kills men who deserve it. She’s fine—really.

Her moral compass? Crooked at best.
Her trauma? Unprocessed and thriving.
Her next target? A “healer” who preys on sick women and thinks no one will stop him.

But her latest obsession? Saint Shade, the masked magician/acrobat lighting up Las Vegas and every woman’s For You Page. He’s chaos wrapped in black silk, and she’s determined to unmask him.

Except the night she does, he catches her mid-murder.
But he doesn’t run. He doesn’t call the cops. He helps with the clean-up.

Now it’s mutual blackmail, and the stakes couldn’t be higher—her body count, his identity. One word from either of them could end it all, but neither seems ready to stop this game of chicken when their chemistry is hot enough to burn down the Strip.

He’s obsessed. She’s unhinged. Together they’re a love story written in bleach, blood, and bad decisions.

Your morally gray soulmate might not fix you—but they’ll definitely help you bury the bodies.

Perfect for fans of Butcher & Blackbird and Lights Out, this serial killer dark rom-com is wickedly funny, a little deranged, and dangerously addictive—guaranteed to make you laugh, blush, and question your morals in the best way.

Genres: Dark Romance

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 20, 2026

Reviews

[LeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars for Willow Vale and “Not-Kade” Saint Shade!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Oh my god this was so freaking good. I enjoyed every moment of this book from beginning to end. From Willow and Saint’s first meeting to their mutual obsession with one another! I love how unhinged they were and all the comments Willow would unashamedly leave on Saint’s TikTok. 

Saint Shade ran away from his old life. Carving a new name for himself as a aerialist magician in Las Vegas. Willow Vale is a tarot reading, dagger wielding bad*ss who just know how to put someone in their place. And she’s done so... about 14x 😂. Both MC’s are TikTok influencers, and are a little obsessed with one another to say the least. Willow tends to leave some interesting comments on all of Saint’s thirst traps and I just loved reading every one of them 😂. 

This was my first time reading about an MMC who was an aerialist and I just thought Saint was so freaking cool. And he was a masked one at that 🤭. And I love an FMC who reads tarot! It definitely kept the story interesting. And their banter was so good! Willow’s sisters were hilarious! Iris and especially Opal were awesome! I love a when siblings are close in books, it just reminds me of my own 💕. Poor Saint at thanksgiving lol, but at least he survived 😂. I loved every bit of this book. It was exciting and kept me captivated. The action, comedy and spice were all there! That Spider-Man kiss? So good 😏. And their obsession with mirrors? Also very nice 😌. I think one of my top scenes is when Willow finds out Saint’s identity. Her reaction is just top tier comedy 😂. The way Saint loves and accepts Willow and vice versa is what made their story beautiful. He took his time and didn’t rush her into anything at all. The slow burn was so good and so hot🔥. 

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons totally gave me those Butcher and Blackbird vibes that I love and I just am so excited for more!! Iris is next and I cannot wait to read her story and find out who Silas is! 

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this more than 5 stars, I absolutely would.

I devoured this book in one sitting. I could not put this book down (except to sleep cause the body needs that apparently).

Keary created a very intense and high-octane environment with characters that have many layers and that just adds to the intensity of everything going on.

Read the blurb because I am not going to tell you anymore than what the blurb gives you.

A MUST READ!!!

[Jessi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and entertaining read. If you liked Lights Out or Butcher & Blackbird, I would definitely recommend this. It’s a dark rom-com, though I’d consider it more of a “diet” dark rom-com. I really enjoyed Willow and Not Kade’s banter and chemistry. They had me laughing, and their relationship was fantastic. I’m looking forward to the next book and Iris’s story.

[~Book Dragon~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ 2🌶️

Loved! If you are a fan of Lights Out and the Ruinous Love series, this is the book for you. Thank you Keary T. for gifting me a copy to review for you. This is a review of an ARC and all thoughts are my own.

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons is set in Las Vegas, a city that never sleeps, is full of sin and the perfect place to live if you want to hide. For Saint Shade he is hiding from his past, for Willow she is hiding what she is doing, killing horrid men. Saint Shade posts thirst traps and Willow posts tarot card readings and they are both obsessed with each other. Their paths cross and they both need to keep each other’s secrets to stay hidden, until they realize there is more to their situation than just silence. They realize they are meant for each other. And they work together to rid the world of someone that hurt Willows friend because of misogyny and neglect. This portion of the book was suspenseful and I did not see what happens to Willow coming, I knew this bad man was going to do something but that is not what I expected. After all that happened I believed we had a blissful ending and was all tied in a pretty bow and then Miss T hits me with and extended epilogue that I could download that has a cliff hanger that has me realizing there will be another book and I need it now.

I really enjoyed the take of a dark romcom set in Las Vegas with a magician/acrobat and a tarot card reader as those are perfect jobs for the characters in this story. I liked the pasts of both characters and why they had to protect themselves and heal with each other as they reveal their true selves for the first time ever.

[Alexis H · Rating 4 out of 5]

[3.75 ⭐️] ARC Review: This books is marketed as a dark rom-com and I would say it is definitely is on the lighter side of dark romance. If you enjoyed Lights Out and Butcher & Blackbird, I recommend adding this to your TBR.

I did enjoy the relationship between the FMC & MMC, it was quick but it was cute & sweet in execution. Although there is spice, there is no extreme kink so if you’re not super into that, you’ll enjoy this.

I was a little surprised at how the tension between the family of the MMC was resolved, it seemed to be a little quick with little issue. I would have liked to see more there but it does add to the overall lighter tone of this book. It also seems like we may be getting more books following the other Vale sisters so I’m looking forward to that.

Overall, I think that as long as you expect to have fun going into this book, you’ll enjoy it.

Thank you to Keary T for gifting me an early copy to review. All opinions are my own.

[Sammie Sherlock · Rating 4 out of 5]

​This is a must-read for 2026 if you love dark romance! I’m giving this 4.5/5 stars. The only reason it isn't a full 5 is that the beginning felt a little repetitive regarding the characters' internal monologues, but once it took off, I truly couldn't put it down.
​Blackmail and Other Turn Ons by Keary T. feels like the perfect love child of Butcher & Blackbird and Lights Out. Since those were two of my favorite reads of 2025, this was the ultimate way to kick off the new year. The FMC, Willow, is a tarot card reader by day and a serial killer seeking justice by night. The MMC—whose identity is a mystery—is a high-profile Vegas magician with a dark, secret past. I was laughing one minute and filled with suspense the next. It drops January 20th, and I can’t wait for other dark romance fans to experience it!

[Natasha's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tarot reader that just so happens to exact her own vigilante justice meets her idol, a masked man that is an acrobat/ magician. Willow discovers who he is, and as he sees her commit a murder, they enact a blackmail pact. Throughout the story, they work together to bring down a false prophet and fall for one another. I enjoyed these two characters and Willow's family. The story was entertaining and kept my invested.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. We have a tarot card reader and an acrobat magician, which was a first for me. I enjoyed the characters. There were layers to it that were revealed piece by piece. This book made me laugh, gasp and 2nd guess myself. Truly a fun read. The mmc was possessive and we love that. The fmc was strong and kinda terrifying (in a good way). These two are perfect for eachother.

[Dani-Lynn Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓮
🌶️🌶️🌶️ - 𝓼𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮
🔥🔥🔥 - 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽
🩸- 𝓰𝓸𝓻𝓮

🖤 𝓶𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼🖤
Willow & Saint Shade ‘Lucky’

🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼🖤
📕 graphic unalivings
📕 psychological manipulation
📕 smoothies gone wrong
📕 body disposal
📕serial unalivers

🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀🖤
Oh, my goodness. This was the perfect combination of revenge horror meets romcom. The chemistry between Willow and Lucky was simply divine the way it was built up from the start. The development of the plot and the emotional bonding they shared was phenomenally written. And don’t even get me started on that finale that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The spice was perfectly woven into the plot to build a stronger connection between the mains. I was absolutely revetted by this book and I can already tell 2026 is going to be full of bangers!

*spoilers*

Willow has a dark secret. And she just got caught in the middle of the act by none other than the mysterious magician, Saint Shade, she has been leaving thirsty comments under his unique videos. Instead of turning her in, he stays to help her with the body because now that she knows his true identity, she’s now a risk for his future. To make sure he doesn’t spill her secrets, she quickly snaps a picture of his face without the mask to ensure he won’t turn around and get officials on her for the body.

But he fascinates her. Wondering the reason why she targeted this man to kill. Upon discovering his atrocious acts that had been swept under the rug, he finds out that she’s only been targeting those who are deserving of such fate. He introduces himself to her as Kade but even she can tell that’s not his actual name. But that doesn’t come out until the moment they both allow themselves to become closer to one another, exposing their darkest secrets so that nothing is kept from each other.

The emotional and sexual bond between the two expand exponentially throughout the story as he helps her try to take down the man responsible for a death that was so dearly close to her. But I can tell you one thing, you’ll never see the climax occur the way it does and what a way to have someone meet your parents for the first time! Absolutely was pulled into the plot, the characters, and the spice to the point where I read this entire book in one sitting. Yes, it was just that good.

As a first time read by the author, I can absolutely say that it won’t be my last. The build-up to the spice was fantastic; it gave us more emotional bonding before the act because of how insecure the fmc had been from past experiences. Lucky is just a heart-stealer, the way he was down to help her bury a body the first time he laid eyes upon her in the bookstore after unaliving a victim. But the icing on the cake for the romance readers was how cute and satisfying the ending was. Perfect for fans of Now You See Me meets Even Lambs Have Teeth and one you should add to your 2026 TBR list.

(Was offered an advanced copy before release in order to provide an honest review…and I have to add this because GR told me)

[TheCasualCrypt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I enjoyed this one. It landed at a 4.5 out of 5 stars for me. What would’ve pushed it to a full 5 ⭐️ would’ve been less repetition, sharper comedic banter, and a shorter overall length. Vibe-wise, it reminded me of The Ruinous Love Trilogy and Lights Out—that lighter dark romcom lane—so if you enjoy those, this will likely work for you too.

The FMC reads tarot and acts as a vigilante when the law fails, which I really liked. The MMC is a masked Las Vegas headliner, bringing in secret identities, reinvention, and a bit of mystery. Our main villain is a wellness-guru con man, which added an interesting and timely layer to the story.

This is a true slow burn. Physical intimacy doesn’t really kick in until around the 70% mark, with a much heavier focus on emotional connection first. Both characters are morally gray, but the spice itself is very vanilla—nothing depraved, brutal, or taboo. It’s rooted in trust, respect, and boundaries. The MMC is extremely patient and understanding of the FMC’s past and lets intimacy unfold entirely on her terms, which I appreciated.

I really enjoyed their meet-cute—it was creative and memorable—and their chemistry was solid. I did want more comedic banter, but their emotional bonding and backstories were compelling and satisfying. There were definitely moments where I was eager to see what happened next and felt genuinely pulled in, but also some stretches where I found myself thinking, okay, let’s move this along.

This is very much a “lighter” dark romcom. When the MMC’s past resurfaces, the way it’s built up made me expect more tension, pushback, and conflict. Instead, it was resolved fairly quickly and smoothly, which reinforced how light this book ultimately is. I would’ve loved more friction there.

The single funniest moment in the entire book—the one that made me actually laugh out loud—was Vivi’s confession. It was painfully awkward in the best way, and you could feel the secondhand embarrassment. Easily my favorite scene.

As for spice: it’s traditional and straightforward. No real kinks, aside from a light mask moment at the end and a little mirror play here and there. This is much more about connection, trust, overcoming trauma and allowing yourself to be fully seen and accepted. There’s a soulmate-adjacent vibe running through it. The darkest element is the serial killer aspect, and even that stays fairly tame with minimal gore.

If you’re a fan of The Ruinous Love Trilogy, just know this is noticeably lighter in tone. Personally, I gravitate toward much darker, pitch-black stories, so for me this felt soft, romantic, and honestly kind of cute. Still very enjoyable—just lighter than my usual preference.

(I did received this as an ARC copy)

[Melissa Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️4.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

““Look in the mirror,” he says right next to my ear. And so I do. Which means I get to watch every second of it as Lucky places a hand on both of my knees, and he slowly pulls them open. “Relax for me, Willow. And watch.”” - Willow Vale

This book kept me intrigued from start to finish! I literally stayed up until 2am reading because I could not convince myself to put it down! A true page turner that is very well written, an leaves you wanting more in all the right ways.
Willow Vale, FMC, is a tarot card reader in Las Vegas. Between telling fortunes and drooling over thirst traps of an unknown masked aerial performer - Saint Shade - on TikTok, she enjoys being a serial unaliver, ridding the world disgusting, disgraceful men.

Lucky, MMC, enjoys teasing his audience as a hot aerial performer on stage in Las Vegas. When he’s not flaunting his ridiculously sexy abs on stage, he enjoys posting thirst traps on TikTok under his stage name - Saint Shade. He also enjoys watching TikTok’s posted by Vale Tarot - Willow (FMC). He finds her sexy, intriguing, but also terrifying.

Willow continues to post TikTok’s about the secret identity of MMC Saint Shade. She is determined to uncover the man under the mask. The only problem with that is, the man under the mask is technically dead and been hiding under a false identity for the past 10years.

One night with Lucky can’t get Willow - Tarot Vale - off his mind. He finds himself standing outside her shop. But what he witnesses is anything but what he thought he would find.

Lucky and Willow find themselves traveling down a similar path. A journey they hope will eventually lead them to finding their true selves. The road they travel unfortunately has a few bumps, murders, and a whole lot of steamy, sexual tension that builds to be more than either of them can control. Especially when there is a mirror room involved!

This is my first read from this author. However, I am impatiently waiting to see if this will turn into a series that follows Willow’s sisters.

Tropes:
* Duo POV
* Slow Burn
* Dark Rom-com
* Blackmail
* Enemies to lovers
* Delicious Banter
* Strong FMC
* Obsessed MMC
* Masked Men
* Mirror play

Trigger Warnings:
* serial unalivers - morally justified
* Graphic unaliving
* Abusive power
* Cults
* Childhood trauma
* PTSD
* Detailed sexual scenes
* Stalking
* Psychological manipulation

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not sure if I've ever read a dark rom-com before. However, because it's Keary, I had to give Blackmail and Other Turn Ons a try. No surprise, it was fantastic!


It's very much a black-cat/golden-retriever situation (✔️). In the beginning, she's leery of him, only doling out her trust occasionally, while he is obsessed from the start. I mean, he kind of has to be if he's helping her hide a body, right? Both of them are crazy, and it's not long before both of them are utterly obsessed with each other (✔️). The touch him/her and die (✔️) trope was going strong. Loved it. Both have a traumatic past and are broken, but are healing together. It's actually surprisingly sweet.


Willow is a witch. She reads tarot cards for a living, but this is not a paranormal reading. I loved how Keary incorporated the tarot into the story. Will gives detailed readings throughout the story and has utter faith in the cards. The plot was excellent. The feminine rage trope most definitely gets a ✔️. Willow is a serial killer. She's not evil. She only kills those who deserve it. This happens to be men in a position of power who have a pattern of preying on women. Her kill count is given, and we actually get to see her in action. Does it say something about me that I was impressed? Meanwhile, there's the mysterious Saint Shade, the aerobic magician who lives for the show and is a little bit lonely. We get to see both halves of his personality. He has the craziest backstory that I've ever read. It was incredibly unique, just like he is. Romance-wise, Shade is a treasure. He's patient, caring, and unbelievably supportive (the bodies). I love them together.


The real meat of the story is when Willow has to go up against a hard target. This one is personal, and things get complicated. A cat-and-mouse game occurred, only it was hard to tell which one of them was the cat and which was the mouse at times. From there, things get crazy compared to the rest of this book; that's saying something. My mind was blown. It was amazing! My favorite moment was when they were all in the car. I just about died laughing. The ending of this book was just so unexpected, but I loved every minute of it. If you like a little humor with your dark romances, then Blackmail and Other Turn Ons is a must-read.

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Slow Burn of Secrets, Setbacks, and Heartbreak

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons by Keary T. took me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, and my feelings definitely shifted as I moved through the story.

Right from the start, I was hooked. I loved Willow immediately, especially the fact that she reads tarot cards. It added such a unique, mystical touch to her character. Her sisters were another highlight for me; their dynamic brought warmth and depth that made the early part of the book really enjoyable. Honestly, for about the first 40%, I was having a great time and flying through the pages.

Then things started to dip for me. Not-Kade kept popping up while Willow was in the middle of her side gig, and it became frustrating. She’s been surviving and handling life on her own for years, so watching him repeatedly interrupt her independence rubbed me the wrong way. That said, the story started to pick back up once their backstories were revealed.

Willow’s past absolutely broke my heart. Learning what she’d been through added so much emotional weight and helped me better understand her choices and walls. Not-Kade, too, has a history, and while I had a general idea of what his background might be, I was slightly off. Still, he remained a man of mystery, which kept me intrigued.

One standout moment for me was the Thanksgiving scene. Hands down, my favorite part of the book. The types of food being served had me yelling “please don’t eat that!”

The ending, though, heartbreaking. Once I reached that point, I couldn’t put the book down. I needed to know how things would unfold, and the emotional tension absolutely delivered.

I’d love to say more, but I don’t want to risk spoiling anything. What I can say is that I’m very excited for Iris’s story, which looks like it may be coming next.

As always, please check trigger warnings before diving in.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willow and Kade(notKade) are a duo that was just waiting to be written! The title of the book suggests a totally different plot and storyline, but there are so many elements and layers to this book that I truly feel as though I got the savor each page. The charming heartfelt touches of quirky crazy family, reincarnated cats, and sweet sisters that test the boyfriend ground this novel in a way that just screams read me for one more chapter. Honestly after reading I'm not sure who I love more, Grandma or Mormor. As for the MFC, Willow, she has the most unhinged side gig I've ever heard of but to do so in Vegas felt oddly appropriate, tarot witch by day and vigilante by night. She has deep rooted hatred that doesn't go quietly, she's held it for years and has perfected her craft. The beginning of her arc is truly tragic; sculpting a path for her that she must walk carrying so many burdens. Until Kade(notKade) walks into her life at the literal worst time, but hey his response just shows how romance is not dead and it just takes the right guy to understand her. Kade(notKade) is boastful, cocky, arrogant is in persona, but his path has been marred by darkness too. The reflection they see in eachother opens a gaze of acceptance and a sliver of normalcy that's enough to ignite them. Two dark characters that finally feel as though they can breathe knowing the other understands how and why they do what they do. Its an enrapturing story with a grotesque exposure of how the world will shape those, and how they learn to survive and try to shape the world back. There is a delicious amount of spice to this book and a magician is nothing without his smoke and mirrors. I can't believe how many times I said 'aweee' even to the mildly unhinged parts of the story but there are just as many sweet scenes are there are dark, I can't recommend this book enough!

[Kelsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Unhinged in the absolute best way possible is how I would sum up this amazing read! This book literally grips you from page one and will have you handing on the edge of your seat for the entirety of it 300 plus pages. Willow is an amazing main FMC as she isn’t sunshine and bubbles but she isn’t cold as ice either she loves who she loves fiercely while still caring for those who deserve her car and tolerating everyone else. Not only that but she was never afraid to face her fears head on and normally with a smirk, and her sarcasm is literally just top notch so there’s no way you can’t love her. As for Saint Shade he’s cocky, and he knows most of Vegas is more than happy to just stare at him all day long… but he’s also a man obsessed. Since the first time he saw Willow he knew they were meant to be, and he is the very definition of a knight in shining armor who will do anything and everything for the woman he loves, but also knows when to step back and allow her to handle her own business. He’s also so genuinely caring, that Saint Shade will steal your heart as quickly as he has his followers. And together their romance and chemistry just leaped right off the page. As morally grey as they both are they just understood each other, they were willing to help, hold, and/or handle any situation the other faced as long as it meant they got to be by their side and it was really just beautiful romance wrapped up in sass, and banter! Honestly I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a dark romantic comedy, filled to the brim with hilarious banter, a dash of spice, plenty of romance, and character that you will love and be rooting for from page one all the way until the end!

[Ayled Trinidad Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons did not politely ask for my attention. It grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go.

Set in Las Vegas, this story delivers the perfect balance of dark humor, romcom chaos, and morally gray romance. Saint Shade is a masked, high-profile magician hiding a past that could destroy him. Willow is a tarot card reader with a serene exterior and something far more dangerous simmering beneath the surface. He posts thirst traps. She posts tarot readings. The obsession is immediate, mutual, and gloriously unhinged.

This book had me laughing out loud one moment and gripping the pages the next. The dark humor lands flawlessly, cutting through the tension at just the right moments, while the suspense keeps tightening its grip. Every twist feels intentional. Every escalation hits harder. Keary T. knows exactly how to weaponize timing and it shows. The characters are magnetic. A Vegas magician/acrobat and a tarot card reader should not work this well, yet it absolutely does. Illusion versus intuition. Performance versus truth. Both Saint and Willow are deeply guarded, shaped by past wounds, and watching them slowly lower their defenses for each other was intimate, raw, and deeply satisfying. The chemistry between Willow and Lucky is feral perfection. The slow burn is addictive, the banter sharp, and the spice seamlessly woven into the story, not for shock value, but to strengthen the emotional bond.

As the story barrels toward its finale, the stakes skyrocket and the tension becomes unbearable. The payoff is bold, unexpected, and executed beautifully, delivering an ending that left me stunned, smiling, and already wanting more. Blackmail and Other Turn Ons is revenge, romance, dark humor, and heart blended to perfection.

[Sarah Carvell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I just adored this book! The banter between “Not-Kade” and Willow was everything. A strong bad-ass FMC, and a masks acrobatic magician with a dark secretive history, and both of them fawn over each other and become obsessive? Don’t have to ask me twice to read that!

I thought for a moment this was going to end badly and absolutely crush my soul, but it was a HEA. Which I didnt hate I should add. Have I been in a “let’s just rip my heart out, shred it into confetti pieces, and throw it in the air like it’s a celebration” reading mood recently, yes, but this was just dark enough to appease the demons in my body XD

But for real though, this was so well written. It didn’t feel long and drawn out. It was dramatic when necessary, had the ups and downs, a great plot, and was entertaining. It wasn’t as spicy as some other novels, but the spice was just right for the story.

There’s one scene in particular that stands out for comedy, and yall have got to read it! After reading that, it makes you think, how many times does this happen for real life masked celebrities! IYKYK!

If you have a weak stomach, boiiii there is a section that had my stomach churning. I thought I was going to throw up for sure. The imagery that was written out before you, oh god, it was revolting…

10/10! This is definitely going to be a top read this year.

[Lisa Ann D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I watch two more of his videos. Then three. Half an hour slips by before my eyes flick up to the time.
“Shit,” | curse myself as I scramble to my feet.
“Horny time is over, Willow. You’ve got a man to kill.”


𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘- January 20, 2026

347 pages

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons


🗡️ 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁, 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗔𝗥𝗖.


🗡️Do not let the cover mislead you: this is NOT a Butcher & Blackbird rip off.
THIS? A unique and satisfying dark romcom. You’re in for a treat. Sexy, smart and funny AF.


🗡️Willow is a breath of fresh air- albeit on a dark twisty breeze.


🗡️And Lucky? Delivers!


What a treat. Its flow and pace were perfect. The plot wins. The spice was spicing. Honestly, I was impressed. And, full transparency- I was turned off by the cover. But, what was in the pages is very satisfying. The author has a new fan. Give it a go- and don’t sleep on this one.


🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️


4.5 stars rounded up to five ★★★★★


🗡️
ɪ smile, a small and controlled thing, because that’s safer than melting. “That sounds like something a stalker would say.
He smirks, leaning back on the couch, stretching out his long body. “Oh I’m definitely a stalker. Don’t think for a second I’m not aware of it.." ❤︎✖︎❤︎✖︎❤︎✖︎❤︎


─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴.* :☆ﾟ. ───

[Kaylee Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC and I must say, I really enjoyed it! I loved the characters and I really enjoyed learning about their backstories, especially since it actually justified why the characters did what they did. I also really liked how the trope was kinda flipped, with the FMC being the serial killer and the MMC just living his best life as an acrobatic performer( although he actually wasn’t all that normal). I enjoyed reading about an MMC who doesn’t try to stop the FMC from executing her various murders because it could be dangerous, but rather helps her and believes in her capabilities. As for the FMC herself , I absolutely loved her! She was actually pretty smart and strong by herself, which is always nice to read about. I also loved how the book didn’t take itself too seriously. For example, there was this one part where the MMC says something cringy while trying ti be flirty, and the FMC called him out on it, which led to a more light hearted and believable moment. I also found the setting interesting, as I have never been to Las Vegas. All in one, I would recommend this book for anyone who liked Butcher and Blackbird, and I will definitely be rereading it in the future!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an enchanting sort of chaos, which I absolutely devoured!! Willow and not-Kade are a match made in purgatory. I really enjoyed the humor mixed in this story because it was always at just the right moment and absolutely hilarious. I was out of breath from laughing at some of the sarcastic banter. It usually takes a lot to make me laugh like that but this book just hits it right in the sweet spot. I guess I really do have a dark sense of humor.

I really enjoyed Willows character. She was fun and sarcastic and just an all around bada**. I loved her devotion to her sisters and how sweet she was with the animals. I really enjoyed that she was standing up for women, and in her own way, protecting those who need it.

I loved not-Kade! He was so sexy and had just a perfect personality. I don't know how anyone could not fall in love with him! He was so caring while also being slightly unhinged. I loved the fact that he was a magician who specializes in aerial work. I wish I could have watched one of his shows in person.

I really enjoyed this story!! It was a great mix of genres and had an interesting plot. It was well written and very engaging. I was instantly hooked and didn't want to put it down. This is one I would definitely recommend!!

[Christy Davisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was hands down a dark twisted fun and intriguing read!!

I was intrigued by the fmc being a serial unaliver and a masked mysterious acrobatic magician in Vegas. These two have a darkness that calls to one another with a bit of mutual blackmail that leads to a connection neither thought they would find.

If you love dark humor, slow burn to dirty spice, golden retriever with a darkness mmc, witchy sarcastic unaliver fmc, some gore, trauma bonding, and so much more this is an absolute must read!! It is one story you won't be able to put down. These two are perfectly matched and as the story unfolds you find out why both have the reasons they do what they do but now find themselves wanting to team and be more. It's a fun twisted read that will have laughing nonstop and a bit of spicy moments woven in that have you rooting for these characters.

I definitely will be following this author after this one. She did a phenomenal job weaving a chaotic world together with dark twisted moments with humor and even a understanding of a traumatic past experiences leading to the OTT craziness that lead two individuals together to find their person who truly sees them. A definite must read here!!

Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶

[Rachel Barboni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons

If Lights Out and Butcher and Blackbird had a love child; this would be it. It was the perfect combo of witty banter, charged up lust and downright murder. This was my first by Keary T and it will definitely not be the last. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the other Vale sisters!

When Willow Vale has an unexpected observer while partaking in her extracurricular activities, she has to find a way for him to keep her secret. She finds her self in an unsuspecting situation of being on the opposing end of keeping a secret. Thus, the bond of blackmail is formed. When Kade finds himself enamored with the tarot card reader ValeTarot on social media he never would have thought he’d be keeping a secret for her; or that he would become her partner in crime (pun intended). The only thing he HAS to make sure is that his life in Vegas doesn’t leave the stage or his past may just catch up. Together they form a cosmic charged bond that will only explode into a comically loveable romance. Can Willow take down her most hated target with more than just her tarot cards and Kade by herside? Will Kade’s past come back and blow his entire life up? Can blackmail keep these two together? Read Blackmail and Other Turn Ons by Keary T to find out! Out NOW!

[Gemma Ironside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willow Vale is a quirky tarot reader with an online following and a dark secret. Willow has been trying to unveil someone that doesn’t want his identity known - Saint Shade. They know of each other due to their online presence but have never met in person until Saint Shade stumbles in on Willow doing something she shouldn’t be doing.

I love the character of Willow, she has a quirkiness about her that just makes you love her. She has a dark history that made her the woman she became, strong, independent and fearless. I love that as a main female character.

Saint Shade is more broody, he has spent ten years in hiding and alone but when he finally meets Willow he instantly falls head over heels for her. He has touch her and die vibes through and through, he never questions her judgement and he just loves her unequivocally. I adore Saint Shade. In fact I love all the characters in this book, it is so well written. The storyline is fun and dark, I’d have liked it a little darker - not sure what that says about me but anyway. It’s such a good fun read with just a nice amount of spice in it. I look forward to book two.

[Dakota Sinkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start off by saying the spice in this book is very well written. The entire story is a page turner because it keeps you wanting to know what happens next. It was a bit of a slow burn for me but it worked for the story line and the things it talks about made sense to be one.
The MMC is described incredibly well and omg the mental picture of him is gorgeous!! He’s so mysterious and his identity being withheld through the majority of the book really kept me flipping pages well past when I should be sleeping. He’s the total package. He met the FMC sarcasm back with his own which made for really good banter/dialogue.
The FMC is a total badass and I loved her character. The way he helped her overcome her past trauma in such a beautiful way.
I would’ve really liked more in depth backstory to both the MMC and FMC but you were given enough information to understand the characters and why they were the way they were. But I like plot just as much as spice.
Overall this book made me laugh, cheer and I couldn’t put it down once I started.

[Bookwyrm_in_KC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blackmail and Other Turn Ons is perfect for fans of Brynne Weaver and Navessa Allen. It strikes that delicate balance between funny and dark and keeps you on the razor edge throughout.

Willow is a tarot witch who moonlights as a vigilante killer. Thanks to her past, she's made an art of helping predatory men shuffle off the mortal coil. She's obsessed with Saint Shade, a masked magician/aerial acrobat. 

When an unmasked Saint Shade catches her in the middle of her most recent predator purge, mutual blackmail seems the obvious way for them both to keep their secrets. Because Saint Shade? He's got a secret identity on top of another secret identity, hiding his true self and a dark personal history of his own. Blackmail soon morphs into sizzling chemistry.

I loved all the characters. Willow is so strong. And her sisters, especially Opal, are a hoot. The last few chapters had nail biting tension as Willow finally tangles with her white whale target and Saint Shade's past comes back to haunt him. 

I had so much fun advance reading and I can't wait for the next book in the series!

[Kylie Weigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect delivery of suspense, thrill, comedy and spicy love!

This witty, banter filled story follows a tarot reader and an acrobat that harbour some dark secrets that use social media to spur on their fans and business.
Despite their very different choices in employment, they are knitted together through thirsty comments and thirst traps by our masked acrobat! When fear and obsession become intertwined, the masked hottie leaves the mask behind while he stalks the little witch that could very well reveal all his cards.
One choice night has the duo unmasking secrets and bonding over some duct tape, plastic bags and a clean up job but not without some security - blackmail.
What was once simple insurance turns to a spicy magnetic pull that has them now throwing caution to the wind as they take on the biggest monster in her closet, the one that haunts her heart the most.
What becomes of the little witch and acrobat as they fight for love, survival and the women wronged by men who take too much?

[Ciana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hooked me immediately. The spooky halloween/ Vegas vibes are perfect.


Saint Shade ran away from his past life and thought he wanted to live in the shadows… until he met Willow (in person 😉). Willow is a tarot reading, dagger wielding, incense loving badass witch. Her traumatic past leads her to a life of vengeful justice. Oh ya… and they are both TikTok sensations. The two of them together are amazing. The banter and dark humor hits perfectly every time. 


With a serial killer around there will be gore. And with her obsessed acrobatic magician hot on her heels there will also be plenty of smut. Saint Shade (or whoever he really is) is so considerate and loving. He takes the time to understand exactly what Willow needs to feel loved.


Every secondary character has amazing personalities that just make the story worth every second. Willows sisters, Opal and Iris, are hilarious and just totally encompass the absurd craziness that are siblings. 


In the end the story wrapped up beautifully and I can't tell you how bad I can't wait to read Opal and Iris’s stories!!!

[K. Cardella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love serial killer books and and when the fmc is Dexter Vibes and magic i said I need to read this and so glad I did. She is a Tarot reader and the way she kills her victims is through tarot, blades, and suffocation and it was amazing to read. The accuracy of each reading and the meanings of way card made my tarot reader self happy. Add in a hot and sin masked magician who only has eyes for her and a true identity only she will ever know. I fell in love with dagger kitten Willow and masked magician "not kade" saint shade. want his real name you'll just have to read the book! It is slow burn and id give 2🌶🌶 there are a total of 3 spicy scenes in here. I wish 1 scene i won't give it away was longer more edge of your seat anticipation and not instant gratification and wish all the side characters has more scenes then they did the ones we met from beginning to end i wanted more of it all especially the end side characters they felt like a blip considering everything. overall the story was phenomenal and there were some great lines I personally highlighted.

[Shonyya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author.

This. Book!!
Had me since page one!
If you loved butcher & blackbird and lights out like me you will absolutely love this book as well!

The Male lead and Female lead carried this book!! They both badass and hilarious the whole book! Willow the female lead is a tarot reader and a killer but only kills men who hurts women. She’s a sarcastic goddess queen! Then there the male lead lucky.. aka TikTok thirst trap Saint and my god he HOT.. and I get it Willow honestly I get it. These two are an amazing badass duo with their back n forth banter and the support they have for each other. They even told each other backstories of what made them what they are today.. yeah both of them have traumatic pasts and man is it rough.
Yet they still accepted each other and love each other.

This Dark romance comes out January 20th! Please I really recommend you read this if you love butcher & blackbird and light out like me.

[Nichole White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so much fun. It is a Black Cat dark romcom that was everything I needed. The main FMC is a professional tarot card reader and the MMC is a las vegas masked show magician. That is the absolute best combo I could think of. The story is sweet, funny and shows the bad men getting what they deserve.

My three favorite characters are the three sisters. They are so quirky and each have a different type of witchy aspect to them. They had me literally in stitches cracking up at some of the things they said/did. Without going into spoiling details side characters in the MMC life are also extremely funny and the car scene with those people had me in tears laughing (iykyk)

If you need a pick me up between dark reads or enjoy dark humor then this book is absolutely for you. It left me feeling happy and in a good mood once I had a finished it and I cant wait for the next in the series (each one is a standalone)