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Seven Sins Carnival #1
Ringmaster
I run a carnival built on sin.
By day, it’s lights, laughter, and illusion.
By night… we hunt.
Twenty years ago, we escaped the cult that raised us.
Now we hunt the men who made us monsters.
Then she shows up.
Jules.
A journalist digging into the disappearances that follow us from town to town.
She’s here to expose me.
But I want her underneath me.
The closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous I become.
Because if she uncovers what we really do after dark…
I won’t be able to let her walk away.
I'll make her mine.
And I’ll ruin her for anyone else.
Ringmaster is a dark, obsessive carnival romance featuring a dominant antihero, a heroine who walks straight into danger, and a relationship that toes the line between desire and depravity.
By day, it’s lights, laughter, and illusion.
By night… we hunt.
Twenty years ago, we escaped the cult that raised us.
Now we hunt the men who made us monsters.
Then she shows up.
Jules.
A journalist digging into the disappearances that follow us from town to town.
She’s here to expose me.
But I want her underneath me.
The closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous I become.
Because if she uncovers what we really do after dark…
I won’t be able to let her walk away.
I'll make her mine.
And I’ll ruin her for anyone else.
Ringmaster is a dark, obsessive carnival romance featuring a dominant antihero, a heroine who walks straight into danger, and a relationship that toes the line between desire and depravity.
- GenresDark
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2026
37 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Arden Hart
7 books131 followersArden Hart writes dark, obsessive romances that linger in the shadows. Expect possessive heroes, twisted desires, and tension that grips you until the last page.
When not weaving danger and obsession onto the page, Arden enjoys strong coffee and dreaming up morally gray characters who refuse to let go.
When not weaving danger and obsession onto the page, Arden enjoys strong coffee and dreaming up morally gray characters who refuse to let go.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 4, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
WOW. Arden did it again. After finishing her Beautiful Stalkers series, I was so curious where she’d go next — and she absolutely did not disappoint.
This story has everything: razor-sharp tension, complex and morally gray characters, twists you don’t see coming, and that deliciously unhinged energy Arden does so well. Set in a dark carnival run by seven brothers — bound not by blood, but by shared trauma — this is Dark Carnival Romance at its finest.
We follow Jules, an investigative reporter determined to expose abusers and bring justice to victims. She’s always chasing the next story… and when she crosses paths with the brothers — especially the enigmatic Ringmaster Elias — she knows there’s something lurking beneath the magic and smoke. The tension between Jules and Elias is electric. Intense. Primal. The kind that makes you squirm in the best way. Definitely check the trigger warnings — your mental health matters.
But if you’re ready for something dark, seductive, and impossible to put down, this one will hook you from page one. Promise. 🎡🔥
🎡 MF
🎡 Secret Identity
🎡 Primal Play
🎡 Hidden Cult
🎡 Chase Through a Carnival
6/26
WOW. Arden did it again. After finishing her Beautiful Stalkers series, I was so curious where she’d go next — and she absolutely did not disappoint.
This story has everything: razor-sharp tension, complex and morally gray characters, twists you don’t see coming, and that deliciously unhinged energy Arden does so well. Set in a dark carnival run by seven brothers — bound not by blood, but by shared trauma — this is Dark Carnival Romance at its finest.
We follow Jules, an investigative reporter determined to expose abusers and bring justice to victims. She’s always chasing the next story… and when she crosses paths with the brothers — especially the enigmatic Ringmaster Elias — she knows there’s something lurking beneath the magic and smoke. The tension between Jules and Elias is electric. Intense. Primal. The kind that makes you squirm in the best way. Definitely check the trigger warnings — your mental health matters.
But if you’re ready for something dark, seductive, and impossible to put down, this one will hook you from page one. Promise. 🎡🔥
🎡 MF
🎡 Secret Identity
🎡 Primal Play
🎡 Hidden Cult
🎡 Chase Through a Carnival
6/26
March 21, 2026
He builds a carnival from ruin. She steps inside ready to expose it.
Elias runs his traveling show with absolute control, turning spectacle into temptation and danger into performance. Jules arrives chasing answers about the shadows that seem to follow the carnival, but the closer she gets, the harder it is to tell where suspicion ends and desire begins. He feels dangerous in all the ways she should resist, and she keeps moving closer anyway.
What starts as a hunt for the truth turns into something darker and far more intimate. Jules is drawn to the violence under Elias’s polish long before she understands it, and Elias wants her out of his orbit almost as badly as he wants to keep her there. As secrets come to light, their connection stops feeling like a game and starts feeling like a trap they both choose, built on exposure, fixation, and the raw relief of being fully seen.
Jules grows from a guarded, trauma-shaped journalist into someone who stops standing outside her own pain and starts choosing what she wants, even when it costs her. Elias begins as a man held together by control, obsession, and revenge, but loving Jules forces him into a more vulnerable kind of power. Together, they shift from suspicion and sexual power play into a relationship rooted in trust, surrender, loyalty, and a darkness neither of them asks the other to hide.
A dark, ultra-steamy carnival romance with erotic horror edges and a strong psychological pull, this story digs into obsession, moral ambiguity, vengeance, and the way intimacy can grow out of damage without pretending damage is beautiful. At its core, it’s about two broken people choosing each other in a world shaped by pain, desire, and survival.
The Elevator Pitch: A journalist follows a trail of disappearances into a traveling carnival run by a man who turns charm, menace, and control into its own kind of performance. What begins as suspicion sharpens into a dangerous intimacy as she gets closer to the truth he’s spent years burying and discovers that desire can look a lot like ruin. Beneath the spectacle, it’s a story about obsession, survival, and two damaged people reaching for each other in the dark.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Elias runs his traveling show with absolute control, turning spectacle into temptation and danger into performance. Jules arrives chasing answers about the shadows that seem to follow the carnival, but the closer she gets, the harder it is to tell where suspicion ends and desire begins. He feels dangerous in all the ways she should resist, and she keeps moving closer anyway.
What starts as a hunt for the truth turns into something darker and far more intimate. Jules is drawn to the violence under Elias’s polish long before she understands it, and Elias wants her out of his orbit almost as badly as he wants to keep her there. As secrets come to light, their connection stops feeling like a game and starts feeling like a trap they both choose, built on exposure, fixation, and the raw relief of being fully seen.
Jules grows from a guarded, trauma-shaped journalist into someone who stops standing outside her own pain and starts choosing what she wants, even when it costs her. Elias begins as a man held together by control, obsession, and revenge, but loving Jules forces him into a more vulnerable kind of power. Together, they shift from suspicion and sexual power play into a relationship rooted in trust, surrender, loyalty, and a darkness neither of them asks the other to hide.
A dark, ultra-steamy carnival romance with erotic horror edges and a strong psychological pull, this story digs into obsession, moral ambiguity, vengeance, and the way intimacy can grow out of damage without pretending damage is beautiful. At its core, it’s about two broken people choosing each other in a world shaped by pain, desire, and survival.
The Elevator Pitch: A journalist follows a trail of disappearances into a traveling carnival run by a man who turns charm, menace, and control into its own kind of performance. What begins as suspicion sharpens into a dangerous intimacy as she gets closer to the truth he’s spent years burying and discovers that desire can look a lot like ruin. Beneath the spectacle, it’s a story about obsession, survival, and two damaged people reaching for each other in the dark.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
March 16, 2026
Twenty years ago, Elias broke free from The Sanctum of Ash cult, with 6 other 'brothers' (a found family through shared trauma), and built The Seven Sins Carnival. It allows them to hide in plain sight while they locate the Prophets (from the cult), to make them pay, raining down their vengeance. Until one day, a journalist named Jules walks into their world, looking for the truth about the disappearances, not realizing that she won't be walking out.
Elias was unhinged and dominant, and Jules was curious and brave. When the brothers told him that he needed to get rid of her, he had other plans because something in her called to him on a deeper level. Phew, these two 🔥. The spice was amazing & detailed, and the chemistry was strong.
There was a lot of tension and suspense in the book, and what the guys suffered through in the past was heartbreaking.
Overall: 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice/Heat Intensity: 5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Elias & Jules
Nickname: Little Sapphire
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone
Title: Seven Sins Carnival Series- Ringmaster: Book 1
Audiobook: n/a as of March 2026
Epilogue: Yes, with a bonus epilogue
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, and protective MMC
*Exhibitionism/Voyeurism
*Carnival
*Abus!ve Religious Cult from the past
*Run - Primal play
*Fear kink
*She calls him Master
*Serial unalivers (revenge)
*Enemies to Lovers
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
Elias was unhinged and dominant, and Jules was curious and brave. When the brothers told him that he needed to get rid of her, he had other plans because something in her called to him on a deeper level. Phew, these two 🔥. The spice was amazing & detailed, and the chemistry was strong.
There was a lot of tension and suspense in the book, and what the guys suffered through in the past was heartbreaking.
Overall: 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice/Heat Intensity: 5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Elias & Jules
Nickname: Little Sapphire
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone
Title: Seven Sins Carnival Series- Ringmaster: Book 1
Audiobook: n/a as of March 2026
Epilogue: Yes, with a bonus epilogue
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, and protective MMC
*Exhibitionism/Voyeurism
*Carnival
*Abus!ve Religious Cult from the past
*Run - Primal play
*Fear kink
*She calls him Master
*Serial unalivers (revenge)
*Enemies to Lovers
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
March 13, 2026
Another amazing engaging quick read by Ms. Hart! A dark sinister group of brothers taking their revenge on the men from their past that did them wrong (shout out to the Beautiful Stalkers standalone series tie in). Another series that I’m eagerly awaiting the next book to come.
- dark & depraved
- spicy
- 2 POV
*check your triggers
** I received my copy of this as an ARC and I’m happily leaving my review voluntarily **
- dark & depraved
- spicy
- 2 POV
*check your triggers
** I received my copy of this as an ARC and I’m happily leaving my review voluntarily **
March 22, 2026
Twenty years ago, Elias burned his faith to ash and dragged six brothers out with him.
Now he runs the show that rose from those ruins.
The world sees a carnival—bright lights, painted smiles, sin wrapped in glitter and gold.
He sees a hunting ground.
Every city they pass hides another Prophet, another ghost of the Sanctum of Ash.
Another chance to make the men who raised them pay.
Then she walks in. Jules.
A journalist with questions that cut, eyes that don’t look away, and a mouth that could ruin him.
She wants the truth about the disappearances that follow his carnival from town to town.
Elias wants her gone. Or beneath him. Or both.
The deeper she digs, the closer she gets to the secrets he buried—and to the monsters that made him.
Elias can command an audience with a smile. He can make the crowd believe in magic.
But he can’t decide if Jules is his salvation... or his next sin.
Ringmaster is a dark, obsessive carnival romance featuring a brooding, morally gray ringleader haunted by his past and the journalist who dares to uncover his secrets.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Dark, Obsessive Carnival Romance, Brooding/Morally Grey Ringleader, Haunted by His Past, FMC dares to Uncover his Secrets, MF Romance, Secret Identity, Hidden Cult, Chase through a Carnival, OTT Possessive/Obsessive/Dominant/Protective MMC, Carnival, Abus!ve Religious Cult from the past, She calls him Master, Serial Unalivers (revenge), Enemies-to-Lovers, No Cheating or Sharing, Interconnected Standalone, Part of the Seven Sins Carnival, Dual POV, 1st person, Dark Romance, Vigilante Unaliver MMC x Reporter FMC with secrets, Spicy, Fun Times at the Carnival (and on the Ferris wheel), She Rides a Harley, He is pierced (frenum and ampallang), Hand Necklaces, Inappropriate Use of a Cane, He calls her "Sapphire" and "Jewel", HEA, Decadently Dark Romance, Morally Black MMC, Serial Killer MMC, Vigilante Justice, Horror Vibes, BDSM, Forced Proximity, Lust at First Sight, Suspense, Horror, Contemporary.
Ringmaster is the 1st book in the Seven Sins Carnival series A Dark Carnival Romance by Arden Hart.
After reading Arden Hart’s Beautiful Stalker Series I was wondering was dark and intriguing world she would pull us into next. And I have to say that I was not disappointed by Ringmaster, the first book in the Seven Sins Carnival book.
I have to start right off the start is this is not your typical light and fluffy Carnival. This Carnival is dark and eerie and full of the seven sins that you’ve never dared to dream of in your darkest nightmares.
As this is the start of a brand new 7-book series, I am going to introduce you to the main characters you’re going to be getting to know over the course of those books, and of course, the FMC of this installment.
Elias: Is the Ringmaster of this dark and twisted Carnival. He is also Silas’s half-brother (same father).
Silas: Is Elias’s half-brother (same father), also the half-brother of Marek (same mother). He is also the second-in-command, and he’s the Illusionist.
Jonah: He is the Carnival’s Strong Man.
Cole: He is the Carnival’s resident Pretty Boy, but he’s more widely known as the Carnival’s Knife Thrower.
Rowe: Is Logan’s twin and he’s the Carnival’s Animal Tamer.
Logan: Is Rowe’s twin and he’s the Carnival’s Fire Eater.
Marek: Is Silas’s half-brother (same mother), and is the Carnival’s Tarot Reader.
Jules: Is our courageous FMC, a journalist who is bound and determined to expose abusers and bring justice to their victims. Always chasing the next story.
So, now that you’ve met our cast, the only one who will really change through the series is our daring FMC, let me get on with the getting on of my review.
Each book of the Seven Sins will focus on one of the “brothers”. I put quotation marks around brothers as they are not all related by blood, some of them are related by their trauma, shock, horror and everything they have gone through together. The seven “brothers” were horrifyingly victimised by this cult, but together they were able to escape.
It only makes sense therefor that we start off with Elias who is the Ringmaster of the Carnival, and we find that all the “brothers” are now adults all working together seeking vengeance for the trauma and neglect they were subjected to.
It’s also here that we meet Jules, a freelance journalist who is bound and determined to expose abusers and help to bring justice to their victims. And she refuses to stop chasing the next story. The current story she’s chasing involves Elias, his brother’s, and the carnival and the series of disappearances that just happen to follow the carnival as it travels from town to town. The only thing that Jules doesn’t know is just how twisted this story truly is.
Now I’ll pause here and say that if you’re not a fan of primal play, PDAs, or exhibitionism, then you may want to skip out on this book and maybe this series as this book contains this and so much more.
Elias and his brother are broken, damaged, deranged in their own perfect ways, but Arden Hart wrote this book in the perfect way that allowed us all to understand how it all happened and makes us in ways sympathize with them. Honestly, my heart broke for all the brothers but I think my heart broke most of all for Rowe and I am really looking forward to his story and really getting to know him more.
Silas’s book is next, and I hope while we get to know Silas better and I hope his FMC is just as strong and intelligent as Jules, I hope we still get to see more of Jules and Elias and what they are up too at the same time. Arden really knocked this book out of the park for the start of a new series, and I am here for this whole series and I can’t wait to read Silas’s book.
Arden made sure to give us everything we’ve come to expect from her. Razor-Sharp tension, complex and morally gray characters, twists and turns that hit you upside the head, and this delicious unhinged energy this is truly Dark Carnival Romance done at it’s best.
I’m really excited that Arden is partnering with another author that I love in Selena Winters and this is a collaboration that I’m really looking forward to reading.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved, that DEDICATION!
Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware… Once the show begins, there’s no going back.
Now, if you are looking for or you’re ready to step into something dark, seductive, and simply enthralling and impossible to put down, Ringmaster will enthrall you from page one. I highly recommend this one. Just be sure to check, read, and reread the trigger warnings before you begin.
A Few of my favorite quotes:
"This is the Seven Sins Carnival," I say. "Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
Yeah, it's not the first time my ovaries got me into half-naked morning-after regrets.
Smirking, Elias stands up and walks to my side. With a decisive move, he pulls me against him and takes my lips in a claiming kiss. Might as well piss a circle around me.
From the mouth of Jules, “You’ll burn in hell for this!” I lean over his chair, letting him see the knife I’m going to use to give him a higher singing voice. “You’ll be there first,” I whisper. “Save us a seat.”
Favorite words from the Ringmaster:
“Sinners and saints. The curious and the condemned. This is the Seven Sins Carnival. Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
“Leave your expectations at the door. Leave your innocence if you’re brave enough. Because once the show begins,” I say softly, smiling at last, “there’s no turning back.”
Now he runs the show that rose from those ruins.
The world sees a carnival—bright lights, painted smiles, sin wrapped in glitter and gold.
He sees a hunting ground.
Every city they pass hides another Prophet, another ghost of the Sanctum of Ash.
Another chance to make the men who raised them pay.
Then she walks in. Jules.
A journalist with questions that cut, eyes that don’t look away, and a mouth that could ruin him.
She wants the truth about the disappearances that follow his carnival from town to town.
Elias wants her gone. Or beneath him. Or both.
The deeper she digs, the closer she gets to the secrets he buried—and to the monsters that made him.
Elias can command an audience with a smile. He can make the crowd believe in magic.
But he can’t decide if Jules is his salvation... or his next sin.
Ringmaster is a dark, obsessive carnival romance featuring a brooding, morally gray ringleader haunted by his past and the journalist who dares to uncover his secrets.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Dark, Obsessive Carnival Romance, Brooding/Morally Grey Ringleader, Haunted by His Past, FMC dares to Uncover his Secrets, MF Romance, Secret Identity, Hidden Cult, Chase through a Carnival, OTT Possessive/Obsessive/Dominant/Protective MMC, Carnival, Abus!ve Religious Cult from the past, She calls him Master, Serial Unalivers (revenge), Enemies-to-Lovers, No Cheating or Sharing, Interconnected Standalone, Part of the Seven Sins Carnival, Dual POV, 1st person, Dark Romance, Vigilante Unaliver MMC x Reporter FMC with secrets, Spicy, Fun Times at the Carnival (and on the Ferris wheel), She Rides a Harley, He is pierced (frenum and ampallang), Hand Necklaces, Inappropriate Use of a Cane, He calls her "Sapphire" and "Jewel", HEA, Decadently Dark Romance, Morally Black MMC, Serial Killer MMC, Vigilante Justice, Horror Vibes, BDSM, Forced Proximity, Lust at First Sight, Suspense, Horror, Contemporary.
Ringmaster is the 1st book in the Seven Sins Carnival series A Dark Carnival Romance by Arden Hart.
After reading Arden Hart’s Beautiful Stalker Series I was wondering was dark and intriguing world she would pull us into next. And I have to say that I was not disappointed by Ringmaster, the first book in the Seven Sins Carnival book.
I have to start right off the start is this is not your typical light and fluffy Carnival. This Carnival is dark and eerie and full of the seven sins that you’ve never dared to dream of in your darkest nightmares.
As this is the start of a brand new 7-book series, I am going to introduce you to the main characters you’re going to be getting to know over the course of those books, and of course, the FMC of this installment.
Elias: Is the Ringmaster of this dark and twisted Carnival. He is also Silas’s half-brother (same father).
Silas: Is Elias’s half-brother (same father), also the half-brother of Marek (same mother). He is also the second-in-command, and he’s the Illusionist.
Jonah: He is the Carnival’s Strong Man.
Cole: He is the Carnival’s resident Pretty Boy, but he’s more widely known as the Carnival’s Knife Thrower.
Rowe: Is Logan’s twin and he’s the Carnival’s Animal Tamer.
Logan: Is Rowe’s twin and he’s the Carnival’s Fire Eater.
Marek: Is Silas’s half-brother (same mother), and is the Carnival’s Tarot Reader.
Jules: Is our courageous FMC, a journalist who is bound and determined to expose abusers and bring justice to their victims. Always chasing the next story.
So, now that you’ve met our cast, the only one who will really change through the series is our daring FMC, let me get on with the getting on of my review.
Each book of the Seven Sins will focus on one of the “brothers”. I put quotation marks around brothers as they are not all related by blood, some of them are related by their trauma, shock, horror and everything they have gone through together. The seven “brothers” were horrifyingly victimised by this cult, but together they were able to escape.
It only makes sense therefor that we start off with Elias who is the Ringmaster of the Carnival, and we find that all the “brothers” are now adults all working together seeking vengeance for the trauma and neglect they were subjected to.
It’s also here that we meet Jules, a freelance journalist who is bound and determined to expose abusers and help to bring justice to their victims. And she refuses to stop chasing the next story. The current story she’s chasing involves Elias, his brother’s, and the carnival and the series of disappearances that just happen to follow the carnival as it travels from town to town. The only thing that Jules doesn’t know is just how twisted this story truly is.
Now I’ll pause here and say that if you’re not a fan of primal play, PDAs, or exhibitionism, then you may want to skip out on this book and maybe this series as this book contains this and so much more.
Elias and his brother are broken, damaged, deranged in their own perfect ways, but Arden Hart wrote this book in the perfect way that allowed us all to understand how it all happened and makes us in ways sympathize with them. Honestly, my heart broke for all the brothers but I think my heart broke most of all for Rowe and I am really looking forward to his story and really getting to know him more.
Silas’s book is next, and I hope while we get to know Silas better and I hope his FMC is just as strong and intelligent as Jules, I hope we still get to see more of Jules and Elias and what they are up too at the same time. Arden really knocked this book out of the park for the start of a new series, and I am here for this whole series and I can’t wait to read Silas’s book.
Arden made sure to give us everything we’ve come to expect from her. Razor-Sharp tension, complex and morally gray characters, twists and turns that hit you upside the head, and this delicious unhinged energy this is truly Dark Carnival Romance done at it’s best.
I’m really excited that Arden is partnering with another author that I love in Selena Winters and this is a collaboration that I’m really looking forward to reading.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved, that DEDICATION!
Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware… Once the show begins, there’s no going back.
Now, if you are looking for or you’re ready to step into something dark, seductive, and simply enthralling and impossible to put down, Ringmaster will enthrall you from page one. I highly recommend this one. Just be sure to check, read, and reread the trigger warnings before you begin.
A Few of my favorite quotes:
"This is the Seven Sins Carnival," I say. "Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
Yeah, it's not the first time my ovaries got me into half-naked morning-after regrets.
Smirking, Elias stands up and walks to my side. With a decisive move, he pulls me against him and takes my lips in a claiming kiss. Might as well piss a circle around me.
From the mouth of Jules, “You’ll burn in hell for this!” I lean over his chair, letting him see the knife I’m going to use to give him a higher singing voice. “You’ll be there first,” I whisper. “Save us a seat.”
Favorite words from the Ringmaster:
“Sinners and saints. The curious and the condemned. This is the Seven Sins Carnival. Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
“Leave your expectations at the door. Leave your innocence if you’re brave enough. Because once the show begins,” I say softly, smiling at last, “there’s no turning back.”
March 15, 2026
Delicious. Decadent. Send Help.
🎪🖤
Arden Hart is one of my must-read authors.
She writes the most delicious dark romance, combining amazing worldbuilding and inventive language with kink galore. I am 4 books into her repertoire and I discovered something new about me each time... 🫣
This is the start of a brand new 7-book series, so let me introduce you to the main characters:
👨🏻Elias, ringmaster
👨🏻Silas, half-brother of Elias (father's side), half-brother of Marek (mother's side) and second in command, illusionist
👨🏻Jonah, strong man
👨🏻Cole, the resident Pretty Boy, knife thrower
👨🏻Rowe, twin of Logan, animal tamer
👨🏻Logan, twin of Rowe, fire eater
👨🏻Marek, half-brother of Silas (mother's side), Tarot reader
Also, some fun stats:
This book contains:
🔥156 fucks
🔥74 cocks
🔥69 dicks, how poetic 😏
🔥40 moans
🔥13 cunts
🔥27 hisses
🔥19 sucks
🔥8 good girls
My favorite quotes:
What it is about:
Ringmaster is a dark romance set in the seductive chaos of the Seven Sins Carnival, where nothing is quite as it seems. A dangerous, morally gray group of vigilantes - under the guidance of ringmaster Elias - collides with sharp reporter Jules hiding secrets of her own, drawing them into a twisted game of truth, power, and temptation. As the carnival lights blaze and past sins surface, attraction and danger blur into a decadent, high‑stakes ride you can’t look away from.
What I loved:
🎪the dedication "Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware... Once the show begins, there's no going back."
🎶the playlist, I can always appreciate a great (on the nose) playlist
🎡the worldbuilding, with the realistic description of rides and their mechanics
🔥the introduction of all 7 MCs, which makes me thirsty for more!
🤡she is afraid of clowns and they banter about #ironic
🧠the inventive language
🌶️spicy af with aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaall the kinks
📚I learned new words, because I had to Google a few, like curmudgeonly, and they weren't all sexual! 😏
🕵️♀️the hints towards her past with the Wicked Sinners MC
💪she is not a stereotypical tiny FMC, she is a 6ft blue-haired spitfire and NOT a morning person #likeme
🔚2 epilogues
What I struggled with:
NOTHING. AT. ALL.
What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalone, part of the Seven Sins Carnival
🫂dual POV, 1st person
🖤dark romance
🔪vigilante killer MMC x reporter FMC with secrets
🔥spicy af
🎪fun times at the carnival (and on the Ferris wheel)
🏍️she rides a Harley
⛓️he is pierced
📿handnecklaces
🦯inappropriate use of a cane
💎he calls her "Sapphire" and "Jewel"
🙇🏻♀️she calls him "Master"
❤️HEA
For the safety squad:
🌶️spice
🦺content warnings
Arden Hart is one of my must-read authors.
She writes the most delicious dark romance, combining amazing worldbuilding and inventive language with kink galore. I am 4 books into her repertoire and I discovered something new about me each time... 🫣
This is the start of a brand new 7-book series, so let me introduce you to the main characters:
👨🏻Elias, ringmaster
👨🏻Silas, half-brother of Elias (father's side), half-brother of Marek (mother's side) and second in command, illusionist
👨🏻Jonah, strong man
👨🏻Cole, the resident Pretty Boy, knife thrower
👨🏻Rowe, twin of Logan, animal tamer
👨🏻Logan, twin of Rowe, fire eater
👨🏻Marek, half-brother of Silas (mother's side), Tarot reader
Also, some fun stats:
This book contains:
🔥156 fucks
🔥74 cocks
🔥69 dicks, how poetic 😏
🔥40 moans
🔥13 cunts
🔥27 hisses
🔥19 sucks
🔥8 good girls
My favorite quotes:
"This is the Seven Sins Carnival," I say. "Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
Yeah, it's not the first time my ovaries got me into half-naked morning-after regrets.
Smirking, Elias stands up and walks to my side. With a decisive move, he pulls me against him and takes my lips in a claiming kiss. Might as well piss a circle around me.
What it is about:
Ringmaster is a dark romance set in the seductive chaos of the Seven Sins Carnival, where nothing is quite as it seems. A dangerous, morally gray group of vigilantes - under the guidance of ringmaster Elias - collides with sharp reporter Jules hiding secrets of her own, drawing them into a twisted game of truth, power, and temptation. As the carnival lights blaze and past sins surface, attraction and danger blur into a decadent, high‑stakes ride you can’t look away from.
What I loved:
🎪the dedication "Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware... Once the show begins, there's no going back."
🎶the playlist, I can always appreciate a great (on the nose) playlist
🎡the worldbuilding, with the realistic description of rides and their mechanics
🔥the introduction of all 7 MCs, which makes me thirsty for more!
🤡she is afraid of clowns and they banter about #ironic
🧠the inventive language
🌶️spicy af with aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaall the kinks
📚I learned new words, because I had to Google a few, like curmudgeonly, and they weren't all sexual! 😏
🕵️♀️the hints towards her past with the Wicked Sinners MC
💪she is not a stereotypical tiny FMC, she is a 6ft blue-haired spitfire and NOT a morning person #likeme
🔚2 epilogues
What I struggled with:
NOTHING. AT. ALL.
What you need to know:
📚interconnected standalone, part of the Seven Sins Carnival
🫂dual POV, 1st person
🖤dark romance
🔪vigilante killer MMC x reporter FMC with secrets
🔥spicy af
🎪fun times at the carnival (and on the Ferris wheel)
🏍️she rides a Harley
⛓️he is pierced
📿handnecklaces
🦯inappropriate use of a cane
💎he calls her "Sapphire" and "Jewel"
🙇🏻♀️she calls him "Master"
❤️HEA
For the safety squad:
🌶️spice
🦺content warnings
March 20, 2026
Ringmaster Elias and his six “brothers” aren’t just performers, they’re hunters cloaked in spectacle, stalking the prophets of the Sanctum of Ash with vengeance born in blood and childhood ruin. The Seven Sins Carnival isn’t just a show; it’s a smokescreen, a moving graveyard where sins are paid for in flesh. And it works… until Jules arrives. Jules is an investigative journalist chasing whispers of disappearances that trail the carnival like a shadow that won’t lift. The brothers see her as a threat to be eliminated, but Elias? Elias sees something else entirely. Something dangerous. Something he wants to claim. Elias is chaos given form. He’s unhinged, merciless, and devout in his darkness. There’s no pretense of redemption here. He’s possessive, controlling, and carved from moral ruin… and somehow that only makes him more intoxicating. He isn’t a hero. He’s the nightmare you don’t wake up from. And Jules? She’s no innocent caught in the web. She’s sharp, relentless, and hiding secrets that cut just as deep as his. Watching her dig into Elias’s world while guarding her own truths adds a tension that hums beneath every page. The atmosphere is where this story truly festers. The carnival glitters on the surface with its lights, laughter, illusions, but beneath it rots with something vicious. Every act feels like a distraction from the violence simmering just out of sight. Secrets fester. Revenge breathes. And danger lingers in every corner. This is not a gentle read. It’s steeped in spice, kink, and graphic brutality, dark in a way that doesn’t apologize. But if that’s your flavor, it delivers in full. The vigilante serial killer thread weaves perfectly into the twisted carnival backdrop, sharpening the story’s edge. And getting glimpses of all the brothers gives just enough to leave you hungry for more of their individual descents into darkness. There’s even a subtle thread tying into the Beautiful Stalkers series, which makes the world feel even more sinister and interconnected. This carnival doesn’t just come to town, it consumes it. And I can’t wait for it to return.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2026
If you like your romance soft, safe, and emotionally stable… this is not your book.
Ringmaster by Arden Hart drops you straight into a traveling carnival that looks beautiful on the outside and feels deeply wrong underneath. The atmosphere alone? Immaculate. You can practically hear the music, smell the sugar, and sense that something is off before anything even happens.
At the center of it all is Elias, the Ringmaster. He’s charismatic, controlled, and just unhinged enough to make you question your own judgment. He doesn’t chase attention, he commands it. And somehow, that confidence becomes the most dangerous thing about him.
Then there’s Jules, a journalist who should absolutely know better. She’s smart, observant, and fully aware that something isn’t right… and still chooses to step closer instead of backing away. Which tells you everything you need to know about the kind of story this is.
The chemistry between them is immediate and intense. There’s no slow burn here. It’s tension, power, and attraction all colliding from the start. And the book leans fully into that dynamic without trying to soften it.
What really stands out is the tone. This isn’t just a dark romance for shock value. There’s a layered story underneath involving trauma, revenge, and a group of men shaped by something deeply disturbing. The carnival isn’t just a setting, it’s part of the psychology of the story.
That said, this book is not for everyone. It explores darker themes and power dynamics that won’t work for readers looking for something light or comforting.
Triggers include: cult trauma, violence, psychological manipulation, obsession, stalking elements, power imbalance dynamics, and explicit dark romantic themes.
Overall, this is intense, addictive, and very aware of what it’s doing. If you enjoy morally gray characters and stories that push boundaries, this one will pull you in fast.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Ringmaster by Arden Hart drops you straight into a traveling carnival that looks beautiful on the outside and feels deeply wrong underneath. The atmosphere alone? Immaculate. You can practically hear the music, smell the sugar, and sense that something is off before anything even happens.
At the center of it all is Elias, the Ringmaster. He’s charismatic, controlled, and just unhinged enough to make you question your own judgment. He doesn’t chase attention, he commands it. And somehow, that confidence becomes the most dangerous thing about him.
Then there’s Jules, a journalist who should absolutely know better. She’s smart, observant, and fully aware that something isn’t right… and still chooses to step closer instead of backing away. Which tells you everything you need to know about the kind of story this is.
The chemistry between them is immediate and intense. There’s no slow burn here. It’s tension, power, and attraction all colliding from the start. And the book leans fully into that dynamic without trying to soften it.
What really stands out is the tone. This isn’t just a dark romance for shock value. There’s a layered story underneath involving trauma, revenge, and a group of men shaped by something deeply disturbing. The carnival isn’t just a setting, it’s part of the psychology of the story.
That said, this book is not for everyone. It explores darker themes and power dynamics that won’t work for readers looking for something light or comforting.
Triggers include: cult trauma, violence, psychological manipulation, obsession, stalking elements, power imbalance dynamics, and explicit dark romantic themes.
Overall, this is intense, addictive, and very aware of what it’s doing. If you enjoy morally gray characters and stories that push boundaries, this one will pull you in fast.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
March 16, 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book pulled me in and hooked me from the very start! It’s a wild, unhinged dark romance set in a carnival world, with deeply detailed and traumatic events for the characters. For me, it was an emotional roller coaster. Arden Hart absolutely ripped my heart out and then put it back together beautifully.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in. Once that’s out of the way—and if you decide like I did to jump in headfirst—buckle up and enjoy the ride, because it’s WILD! 🎢
I fell hard for Elias and Jules 🥵 I loved Elias’s unhinged dominance and Jules’s strong, spunky attitude. I especially loved that she rides a motorcycle—just like me! The electric connection between these two is off-the-charts sexy. Their intensity runs through the entire book, and I was genuinely sad when it ended. I needed more! Haha.
I cannot wait to read Silas’s story next 👍
I’m also really excited that Arden Hart is partnering with another favorite author of mine, Selena Winters. That collaboration has me very excited! 💯
Loved this - DEDICATION
Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware… Once the show begins, there’s no going back.
From the mouth of Jules, “You’ll burn in hell for this!” I lean over his chair, letting him see the knife I’m going to use to give him a higher singing voice. “You’ll be there first,” I whisper. “Save us a seat.”
Favorite words from the Ringmaster:
“Sinners and saints. The curious and the condemned. This is the Seven Sins Carnival. Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
“Leave your expectations at the door. Leave your innocence if you’re brave enough. Because once the show begins,” I say softly, smiling at last, “there’s no turning back.”
This book pulled me in and hooked me from the very start! It’s a wild, unhinged dark romance set in a carnival world, with deeply detailed and traumatic events for the characters. For me, it was an emotional roller coaster. Arden Hart absolutely ripped my heart out and then put it back together beautifully.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in. Once that’s out of the way—and if you decide like I did to jump in headfirst—buckle up and enjoy the ride, because it’s WILD! 🎢
I fell hard for Elias and Jules 🥵 I loved Elias’s unhinged dominance and Jules’s strong, spunky attitude. I especially loved that she rides a motorcycle—just like me! The electric connection between these two is off-the-charts sexy. Their intensity runs through the entire book, and I was genuinely sad when it ended. I needed more! Haha.
I cannot wait to read Silas’s story next 👍
I’m also really excited that Arden Hart is partnering with another favorite author of mine, Selena Winters. That collaboration has me very excited! 💯
Loved this - DEDICATION
Step right up, little sinners. The Ringmaster has been waiting for you. But beware… Once the show begins, there’s no going back.
From the mouth of Jules, “You’ll burn in hell for this!” I lean over his chair, letting him see the knife I’m going to use to give him a higher singing voice. “You’ll be there first,” I whisper. “Save us a seat.”
Favorite words from the Ringmaster:
“Sinners and saints. The curious and the condemned. This is the Seven Sins Carnival. Where temptation wears a smile, and every thrill comes with a price."
“Leave your expectations at the door. Leave your innocence if you’re brave enough. Because once the show begins,” I say softly, smiling at last, “there’s no turning back.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just looking at the author’s initials will tell you how I feel every time I see one of their books drop: ahhh
Delicious, decadent dark, dangerous, annnnd hmmm … ooo! delightfully sinful 🖤 Ms Hart didn’t skimp on the public displays of erec- oops I mean affection 😉 in Ringmaster. This character based novel kept me glued to the pages, with the steam a-plenty, the revenge on point, and the evolution of two damaged souls finding exactly who they needed to heal. Looks like Silas is up next with a little MMF 🫣 *** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Elias
FMC:
✨Jules
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, continuing/interconnecting storyline
Series:
✨Book 1of7: Seven Sins Carnival
Tropes:
👉decadently dark romance
👉morally black mmc
👉serial killer mmc
👉vigilante justice
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex: explicit, graphic descriptions, dubcon, exhibitionism, voyeurism, public sex, group sex situations,
🔥con-noncon roleplay, knife/weapon, breath/choking
💥profanity
💥violence: graphic, torture, revenge violence, kidnapping
🔥references to: child abuse, child sexual abuse, cult abuse, sexual assault, drug use
💥death: serial killing, murder, family member death
💥psychological: power imbalance, revenge
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Delicious, decadent dark, dangerous, annnnd hmmm … ooo! delightfully sinful 🖤 Ms Hart didn’t skimp on the public displays of erec- oops I mean affection 😉 in Ringmaster. This character based novel kept me glued to the pages, with the steam a-plenty, the revenge on point, and the evolution of two damaged souls finding exactly who they needed to heal. Looks like Silas is up next with a little MMF 🫣 *** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Elias
FMC:
✨Jules
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, continuing/interconnecting storyline
Series:
✨Book 1of7: Seven Sins Carnival
Tropes:
👉decadently dark romance
👉morally black mmc
👉serial killer mmc
👉vigilante justice
Triggers:
💥18+
💥sex: explicit, graphic descriptions, dubcon, exhibitionism, voyeurism, public sex, group sex situations,
🔥con-noncon roleplay, knife/weapon, breath/choking
💥profanity
💥violence: graphic, torture, revenge violence, kidnapping
🔥references to: child abuse, child sexual abuse, cult abuse, sexual assault, drug use
💥death: serial killing, murder, family member death
💥psychological: power imbalance, revenge
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
“Ringmaster,” by Arden Hart
This book was honestly such a fun dark romance. The story takes place around a twisted carnival setting, which immediately gives it that creepy, slightly horror vibe. Behind the bright lights and performances there’s a much darker world filled with dangerous people, secrets, and revenge. The vigilante serial killer aspect adds a really dark edge to the story, but it fits perfectly with the carnival atmosphere. The romance is very much lust at first sight, and from there it spirals into all kinds of chaotic tension. There’s forced proximity, a lot of power dynamics, and a very primal push-and-pull between the characters. If you like dark romance with dominant energy, chase scenes, and a lot of spice, this one is perfect. It honestly felt like a classic dark romance formula—nothing super shocking or groundbreaking plot-wise—but it was still ridiculously entertaining. Sometimes you just want a book that fully commits to the vibes, and this one absolutely does.
5 out of 5 stars. It might be a little basic in the dark romance world, but the carnival setting, spice, and chaotic characters made it so addictive.
-Carnival Setting
-Dark Romance
-Horror Vibes
-Primal Chase
-BDSM
-Serial Killer Vigilante
-Forced Proximity
-Lust at First Sight
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
This book was honestly such a fun dark romance. The story takes place around a twisted carnival setting, which immediately gives it that creepy, slightly horror vibe. Behind the bright lights and performances there’s a much darker world filled with dangerous people, secrets, and revenge. The vigilante serial killer aspect adds a really dark edge to the story, but it fits perfectly with the carnival atmosphere. The romance is very much lust at first sight, and from there it spirals into all kinds of chaotic tension. There’s forced proximity, a lot of power dynamics, and a very primal push-and-pull between the characters. If you like dark romance with dominant energy, chase scenes, and a lot of spice, this one is perfect. It honestly felt like a classic dark romance formula—nothing super shocking or groundbreaking plot-wise—but it was still ridiculously entertaining. Sometimes you just want a book that fully commits to the vibes, and this one absolutely does.
5 out of 5 stars. It might be a little basic in the dark romance world, but the carnival setting, spice, and chaotic characters made it so addictive.
-Carnival Setting
-Dark Romance
-Horror Vibes
-Primal Chase
-BDSM
-Serial Killer Vigilante
-Forced Proximity
-Lust at First Sight
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
March 15, 2026
This story was sad at times with what happened to the 7 sins of the carnival (brothers), but the way the brothers took care of each other and the problems of abuse of all their childhood from being born in a cult of deprived monsters ,but to become monsters themselves to go after the cult was mind blowing and then you got Jules she was just as dementia as the sinners, With her own pain in her past. Then the love that grew was haunting and dark (but what true love isn't) Ringmaster surprised me it was a story I was expecting with 7 (half) brothers with only the ringmaster touching the girl, but I loved it Im hopefully for book 2 real soon to finish their story It didn't end on a cliffhanger but it left room to start a new begin.
I'm not the kind of reader that gets shocked easy but OMG when they did a private show for Jules as the center I was shocked but turn on trying to picture the scene in my mind I got the picture and shocked came to mind.(hand if you know you know) If you love s3x, danger, punishment, and dark you will absolutely love this book. Can't wait for book 2 to book 7 from each of the 7 sin of the carnival monsters (brothers) each their own story(book)
5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I'm not the kind of reader that gets shocked easy but OMG when they did a private show for Jules as the center I was shocked but turn on trying to picture the scene in my mind I got the picture and shocked came to mind.(hand if you know you know) If you love s3x, danger, punishment, and dark you will absolutely love this book. Can't wait for book 2 to book 7 from each of the 7 sin of the carnival monsters (brothers) each their own story(book)
5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 13, 2026
RINGMASTER is the first book in Arden Hart's new Dark Romance series, Seven Sins Carnival. And I've mentioned right at the beginning that this is Dark Romance, because light and fluffy it certainly is not!
Elias is the ringmaster (obviously) of the carnival, and his brothers all have different roles. Most of them are not related by blood, but by trauma, shock, and horror. They were disgustingly abused by a cult, but escaped. Now, as adults, they are seeking vengeance. Jules is a freelance reporter who knows there is a story there. She just doesn't know how twisted it is.
If you don't like Primal Play, PDAs, or exhibitionism, then this may not be the book for you! Because it has all that and more. Elias and his brothers are all deranged in their own perfect ways, but the story is written in a way that makes it understandable. My heart breaks for Rowe, and I can't wait for his story.
Silas is next, and I hope we see more of Jules and Elias, too. This was a great, bloody start to a new series, and I am here for it. Absolutely recommended by me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mar 13, 2026
Elias is the ringmaster (obviously) of the carnival, and his brothers all have different roles. Most of them are not related by blood, but by trauma, shock, and horror. They were disgustingly abused by a cult, but escaped. Now, as adults, they are seeking vengeance. Jules is a freelance reporter who knows there is a story there. She just doesn't know how twisted it is.
If you don't like Primal Play, PDAs, or exhibitionism, then this may not be the book for you! Because it has all that and more. Elias and his brothers are all deranged in their own perfect ways, but the story is written in a way that makes it understandable. My heart breaks for Rowe, and I can't wait for his story.
Silas is next, and I hope we see more of Jules and Elias, too. This was a great, bloody start to a new series, and I am here for it. Absolutely recommended by me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mar 13, 2026
March 16, 2026
Officially, Arden Hart is my favorite dark romance author. I’ve read everything she’s written, and I will read everything she writes. I’ve been waiting for Ringmaster and I devoured it. I loved it, I’m obsessed with it, and honestly, it’s the best story Arden Hart has written yet!!!!
Seven Sins Carnival - hot, spicy, dark, dangerous, primal and truly sinister!!!!!
Omg, this book! It’s so perfectly written and full of such strong spice, I couldn’t get enough!!! From the very first pages,the story pulled me in and didn’t let go.
Elias is completely unhinged, morally-black and possessive and Jules is brave and feisty. Their chemistry hit me from the very first encounter and only got more intense as the story went on.
The plot is dark, intense, and gripping. The characters carry a tragic, traumatic past from growing up in a cult, and now they’re on a relentless path of revenge against those who harmed them. The tension and danger throughout kept me completely absorbed.
This story was dark, addictive, and impossible to put down.
If you love dark romance, if you love spice, if you love erotica… PLEASE READ THIS. It’s dark, intense, and absolutely addictive.
Seven Sins Carnival - hot, spicy, dark, dangerous, primal and truly sinister!!!!!
Omg, this book! It’s so perfectly written and full of such strong spice, I couldn’t get enough!!! From the very first pages,the story pulled me in and didn’t let go.
Elias is completely unhinged, morally-black and possessive and Jules is brave and feisty. Their chemistry hit me from the very first encounter and only got more intense as the story went on.
The plot is dark, intense, and gripping. The characters carry a tragic, traumatic past from growing up in a cult, and now they’re on a relentless path of revenge against those who harmed them. The tension and danger throughout kept me completely absorbed.
This story was dark, addictive, and impossible to put down.
If you love dark romance, if you love spice, if you love erotica… PLEASE READ THIS. It’s dark, intense, and absolutely addictive.
March 19, 2026
While the premise is intriguing, this book didn't quite hit the mark for me. Ultimately, when I choose a book for its plot, I expect the narrative to be the driving force, and I feel the story didn't quite deliver because the smut took precedence over the plot development. I felt the author focused too heavily on the spice, which distracted from the mystery itself.
The story features insta-lust, which I usually enjoy, but in this case, it felt too immediate to be believable. For instance, they sleep together, and even after he catches her snooping, he forgives her and trusts her almost instantly, all within the span of a single night.
Perhaps I was too focused on the darker elements of the premise, but I didn't find the book particularly dark because the grittier aspects were glossed over in favor of the romance. I think the story would have felt much more impactful if we had seen more of their past through memories or flashbacks. Additionally, the protagonist's backstory with her family didn't quite live up to the expectations set by her internal monologue at the start. Despite these issues, I am curious about Silas's story and plan to give the next installment a try.
The story features insta-lust, which I usually enjoy, but in this case, it felt too immediate to be believable. For instance, they sleep together, and even after he catches her snooping, he forgives her and trusts her almost instantly, all within the span of a single night.
Perhaps I was too focused on the darker elements of the premise, but I didn't find the book particularly dark because the grittier aspects were glossed over in favor of the romance. I think the story would have felt much more impactful if we had seen more of their past through memories or flashbacks. Additionally, the protagonist's backstory with her family didn't quite live up to the expectations set by her internal monologue at the start. Despite these issues, I am curious about Silas's story and plan to give the next installment a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
This book was actually so damn good? I wasn't expecting it to be honest. I'm not fond of dark romance men but the author managed to make Elias so damn loveable.
Elias and Jules were SO amazing together. I loved it. And the spice was spicing very much so.
Jules was so damn cool. I love that even in the weirdest moments (I mean kinkiest) the reporter in her never dulled? Her passion for her work is actually remarkable. I love that she didn't back down without a fight. And I'm SO glad that she wasn't another virgin like in every other dark romance.
Elias is an amazing character. I love how he loved her so fiercely. His bond with his brothers was so sweet. I love how he is the papa of the group lol. And I love that he had a personality other then being the boyfriend.
I only wish that we'd gotten to dive more into his past as I still have some questions about his past but I believe we'll get to read more in the upcoming books, yes?
Cannot wait for The Illusionist.
I hope we get to see more of Jules & Elias too.
I can't wait!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elias and Jules were SO amazing together. I loved it. And the spice was spicing very much so.
Jules was so damn cool. I love that even in the weirdest moments (I mean kinkiest) the reporter in her never dulled? Her passion for her work is actually remarkable. I love that she didn't back down without a fight. And I'm SO glad that she wasn't another virgin like in every other dark romance.
Elias is an amazing character. I love how he loved her so fiercely. His bond with his brothers was so sweet. I love how he is the papa of the group lol. And I love that he had a personality other then being the boyfriend.
I only wish that we'd gotten to dive more into his past as I still have some questions about his past but I believe we'll get to read more in the upcoming books, yes?
Cannot wait for The Illusionist.
I hope we get to see more of Jules & Elias too.
I can't wait!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2026
I had seen this book posted all over TikTok and Facebook which ultimately had me saving it to my TBR until its release date because the plot intrigued me. I’m a sucker for a circus romance. What I wasn’t expecting was a book with very little story and a lot of straight up sex.
The spice was definitely spicy and typically I enjoy that if it is with equal parts plot. I loved the idea of a circus built to disguise destroying something dark. However, I felt like the two main characters and their one night to straight up obsession and love was a little too far of a reach for me. The fmc was calling the mmc her “Master” the first night. I think if the book had been more plot driven and not as short, the story would have been much more enjoyable. The plot points that did occur happened too quickly for me and the world/characters within the story could have been developed more.
With that being said, I am interested to read the next book in the series. As I was more interested in the brothers than the mmc and fmc. I’m looking forward to learning more about them as the series progresses and I’m assuming each brother’s book is written.
The spice was definitely spicy and typically I enjoy that if it is with equal parts plot. I loved the idea of a circus built to disguise destroying something dark. However, I felt like the two main characters and their one night to straight up obsession and love was a little too far of a reach for me. The fmc was calling the mmc her “Master” the first night. I think if the book had been more plot driven and not as short, the story would have been much more enjoyable. The plot points that did occur happened too quickly for me and the world/characters within the story could have been developed more.
With that being said, I am interested to read the next book in the series. As I was more interested in the brothers than the mmc and fmc. I’m looking forward to learning more about them as the series progresses and I’m assuming each brother’s book is written.
Review of advance copy
The sinners may just become her saviours 😈
Jules, an investigative journalist believes she’s found her story, it leads her to a carnival but what she doesn’t expect is to fall for the Ringmaster. Until, she is caught snooping and then her life will not be her own, if she manages to escape him, his brothers, the carnival rides and being fenced in a locked up playground!
𝕀 𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕒𝕟𝕖 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕒𝕥 𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕒 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕚𝕔 𝕘𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕡𝕒𝕝𝕖 𝕖𝕪𝕖𝕤.
It’s a quick read, taking us through the ins and outs (pun intended 🌶️), the MCs back story towards them seeking vengeance on a cult that had caused the seven sins carnival untold horrors and Jules gaining justice for her past. The spice is intense and insatiable for both, I say both with tongue in cheek as there maybe a little exhibitionism involved too 😉. The mix of the guys within the storyline is a great way of getting to know a little of them before they get their own stories. An enjoyable read with a little angst involved.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jules, an investigative journalist believes she’s found her story, it leads her to a carnival but what she doesn’t expect is to fall for the Ringmaster. Until, she is caught snooping and then her life will not be her own, if she manages to escape him, his brothers, the carnival rides and being fenced in a locked up playground!
𝕀 𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕒𝕟𝕖 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕒𝕥 𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕒 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕚𝕔 𝕘𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕡𝕒𝕝𝕖 𝕖𝕪𝕖𝕤.
It’s a quick read, taking us through the ins and outs (pun intended 🌶️), the MCs back story towards them seeking vengeance on a cult that had caused the seven sins carnival untold horrors and Jules gaining justice for her past. The spice is intense and insatiable for both, I say both with tongue in cheek as there maybe a little exhibitionism involved too 😉. The mix of the guys within the storyline is a great way of getting to know a little of them before they get their own stories. An enjoyable read with a little angst involved.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2026
Hot damn… this book was everything I never knew I needed. From the very first chapter it pulled me into a dark, twisted world that I honestly never wanted to leave.
And Elias? Let me just say he can be my “Master” anytime. 😮🔥 If you love a deeply troubled, dangerously possessive alpha male, buckle up—you’re in for a wild ride. Elias isn’t your typical romantic hero; he’s intense, controlling, and unapologetically dark, which somehow makes him completely irresistible.
The chemistry between Elias and his “jewel” is electric from the start. Their relationship is built from pain, obsession, and secrets, creating a haunting connection that feels like a beautiful house of horrors. It’s the kind of story that traps you inside its walls—you know it’s dark, you know it’s dangerous, but you can’t look away.
This book is intense, addictive, and definitely not for the faint of heart. If you’re a fan of dark romance filled with obsession, tension, and morally gray characters, prepare yourself… because once you step into this story, you won’t want to escape.
And Elias? Let me just say he can be my “Master” anytime. 😮🔥 If you love a deeply troubled, dangerously possessive alpha male, buckle up—you’re in for a wild ride. Elias isn’t your typical romantic hero; he’s intense, controlling, and unapologetically dark, which somehow makes him completely irresistible.
The chemistry between Elias and his “jewel” is electric from the start. Their relationship is built from pain, obsession, and secrets, creating a haunting connection that feels like a beautiful house of horrors. It’s the kind of story that traps you inside its walls—you know it’s dark, you know it’s dangerous, but you can’t look away.
This book is intense, addictive, and definitely not for the faint of heart. If you’re a fan of dark romance filled with obsession, tension, and morally gray characters, prepare yourself… because once you step into this story, you won’t want to escape.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arden Hart has outdone herself with Ringmaster! By 9% into the book I knew I was enamored with the story and already looking forward to the series. Elias and his brothers held me captivated with their quest for justice but also just with their family dynamics and how intriguing each brother's personality was. And Jules was this brave badass FMC who most definitely has a thing for dangerous men but wisely hates clowns. And the spice...dear Lord Elias's dirty mouth and even naughtier actions would turn anyone into a wanton sinner 🥵
The writing itself was also just so pleasant to read with clear personality descriptors so I never got lost amongst which brother was which, the easy flow and pacing yet still I felt all the emotions of the characters, and the way it left me constantly saying "Ok, just one more chapter" when one more was never enough.
The writing itself was also just so pleasant to read with clear personality descriptors so I never got lost amongst which brother was which, the easy flow and pacing yet still I felt all the emotions of the characters, and the way it left me constantly saying "Ok, just one more chapter" when one more was never enough.
March 10, 2026
Where Can I Find My Own Seven Sins Carnival????
After reading Arden's Beautiful Stalkers series, I was anxiously waiting to read what she had in store for me next! Arden writes unhinged MMCs so well and FMCs unleashing their dark side when they meet their perfect counterpart. Elias and Jules chemistry together is scorching.
Just the description of Elias in his Ringmaster persona and costume had me intrigued from the beginning. I am fascinated by the Seven Sins Carnival and each of the seven brothers. Arden introduces us to each brother, who have their own distinct personalities; and it just piqued my interest and craving each installment of this series. I just love her morally gray characters with hints of vulnerability and ability to love in their own way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After reading Arden's Beautiful Stalkers series, I was anxiously waiting to read what she had in store for me next! Arden writes unhinged MMCs so well and FMCs unleashing their dark side when they meet their perfect counterpart. Elias and Jules chemistry together is scorching.
Just the description of Elias in his Ringmaster persona and costume had me intrigued from the beginning. I am fascinated by the Seven Sins Carnival and each of the seven brothers. Arden introduces us to each brother, who have their own distinct personalities; and it just piqued my interest and craving each installment of this series. I just love her morally gray characters with hints of vulnerability and ability to love in their own way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2026
From the very first page, this book completely captivated me and I couldn't put it down! "Ringmaster" is a thrilling, unhinged dark romance expertly set within a captivating carnival atmosphere. The narrative delves into deeply detailed and emotionally charged events that the characters face, creating a truly immersive experience. As a reader, I felt like I was on an intense emotional roller coaster throughout the entire story. Arden Hart has an incredible talent for storytelling, as they masterfully ripped my heart out and then put it back together in the most beautiful way. The writing is simply captivating, and the story is one that I know I will not be able to forget anytime soon. I enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the dark romance genre; you won't be disappointed!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Welcome, to the Seven Sins Carnival!
A deliciously dark and dangerously depraved obsession. A gritty, primal, uninhibited descent where the twists are sinister tripwires.
Morally black and dangerously complex, the Seven Sins brothers live by a lethal internal code, and are a force of absolute darkness. Driven by their dark impulses, the blood-soaked midway leads them to the ultimate rigged game: their brutal, bloody brand of vengeance.
Ringmaster is sinister, scorchingly carnal, soul-shattering, and unapologetically sinful.
Journalist Jules and Ringmaster Elias await your arrival under the big top!
*PLEASE READ TRIGGER AND CONTENT WARNINGS.*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A deliciously dark and dangerously depraved obsession. A gritty, primal, uninhibited descent where the twists are sinister tripwires.
Morally black and dangerously complex, the Seven Sins brothers live by a lethal internal code, and are a force of absolute darkness. Driven by their dark impulses, the blood-soaked midway leads them to the ultimate rigged game: their brutal, bloody brand of vengeance.
Ringmaster is sinister, scorchingly carnal, soul-shattering, and unapologetically sinful.
Journalist Jules and Ringmaster Elias await your arrival under the big top!
*PLEASE READ TRIGGER AND CONTENT WARNINGS.*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2026
Captivating Carnival read!
I was so excited to read this and I’m so glad I did!
As I don’t have any triggers, this was a fantastic read for me but, if you do, please, please check the warnings before reading as this story deals with a lot of dark aspects.
In a carnival setting, this read takes you on a dark, spicy ride full of tension, revenge, unhinged energy and with twists that you don’t expect, you’ll devour this up.
Both the main characters, Jules and Elias, have secrets hidden in their pasts so when they collide the chemistry between them is off the charts as they start to learn about the traumas they have both lived through.
Oh! And I loved the ending (and loved this book!!)❤️
I was so excited to read this and I’m so glad I did!
As I don’t have any triggers, this was a fantastic read for me but, if you do, please, please check the warnings before reading as this story deals with a lot of dark aspects.
In a carnival setting, this read takes you on a dark, spicy ride full of tension, revenge, unhinged energy and with twists that you don’t expect, you’ll devour this up.
Both the main characters, Jules and Elias, have secrets hidden in their pasts so when they collide the chemistry between them is off the charts as they start to learn about the traumas they have both lived through.
Oh! And I loved the ending (and loved this book!!)❤️
March 19, 2026
Story 4.5 ⭐
Spice 5 🌶️
Ringmaster is a spicy, dark carnival romance.
Jules is a reporter investing deaths following the Seven Sins Carnival, and learns so much more than she expected to.
Elias is the ringmaster of the Seven Sins Carnival, and is drawn to Jules as soon as he first notices her.
All the characters have experienced a lot of trauma in their past, and are working in their own way to move past it. Personally would have loved to have seen what their plans were that were cancelled after Jules forced a change in plans. Hopefully, we get to see what they referenced as their regular plans in the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Spice 5 🌶️
Ringmaster is a spicy, dark carnival romance.
Jules is a reporter investing deaths following the Seven Sins Carnival, and learns so much more than she expected to.
Elias is the ringmaster of the Seven Sins Carnival, and is drawn to Jules as soon as he first notices her.
All the characters have experienced a lot of trauma in their past, and are working in their own way to move past it. Personally would have loved to have seen what their plans were that were cancelled after Jules forced a change in plans. Hopefully, we get to see what they referenced as their regular plans in the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Jules is an journalist always looking for the next story, and bring justice to those who need it via her exposes and stories, when she stumbles acrossnseveral disappearances that co-inside with a carnivals movements shes locked in to discover the truth, only she catches the eye of the ringmaster Elias. Elias and his 6 brothers bonded by the trauma and survival of their past, created the carnival to exact revenge against the Sanctum of Ash, only now they have Jules digging around and Ella's cant choose whether shes their damnation or his salvation. Well written engaging steamy desires dark themes, torture trauma and more
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has such exiting, magical and intriguing environment, I was already sold on the idea of this series. The whole set up is detailed and described very vividly.
Also the characters are refined, and the book lets us in on their past, present and future along the story. There is still mystery left for the next parts of the series.
So the author has created complex and polished world with it's awesome and unique crew, and I'm hooked. And the book is truely capturing.
The story is suspenseful, even horrorish and very hot (at least 🌶🌶🌶🌶). I would recommend to readers who aren't afraid of those things.
Also the characters are refined, and the book lets us in on their past, present and future along the story. There is still mystery left for the next parts of the series.
So the author has created complex and polished world with it's awesome and unique crew, and I'm hooked. And the book is truely capturing.
The story is suspenseful, even horrorish and very hot (at least 🌶🌶🌶🌶). I would recommend to readers who aren't afraid of those things.
March 13, 2026
★ “I’m not just riding toward a story. I’m riding straight back into temptation.” ★
We meet Ringmaster Elias Vale of the Seven Sins Carnival, and his six “brothers,” a found family forged from shared childhood experiences filled with horrific pain and terror. When a nosy journalist asks too many questions, they know how to close rank around Elias’ “Jewel.” Because they had a mission while there in Marrow Falls, and she had no place in their plans. A riveting and spicy start to the series! Very much looking forward to reading the rest of their stories in this series, each of the carnival’s men are very intriguing!
💝🫶🏼 Please mind your triggers before diving in 🫶🏼💝
We meet Ringmaster Elias Vale of the Seven Sins Carnival, and his six “brothers,” a found family forged from shared childhood experiences filled with horrific pain and terror. When a nosy journalist asks too many questions, they know how to close rank around Elias’ “Jewel.” Because they had a mission while there in Marrow Falls, and she had no place in their plans. A riveting and spicy start to the series! Very much looking forward to reading the rest of their stories in this series, each of the carnival’s men are very intriguing!
💝🫶🏼 Please mind your triggers before diving in 🫶🏼💝
March 23, 2026
"Step right up, little sinners."
It's been a hot minute since I've read a horror romance, and this one was scortching hot. This carnival ride was fast-paced, fun, and a deliciously smutty good time. Arden Hart knows how to grab your attention and keep one wildly entertained. With morally grey, completely unhinged characters, this book was easy to devour.
Elias and Jules easily have one of those intense instant physical connections that made me melt into a puddle from the heat.
It was such a great start to the Seven Sins series. I can't wait for more.
Tropes:
Carnival
Possesive MMC
Vigilante
Reporter + Carnie
Kidnapping
Explicit
Dual POV
Check TW
It's been a hot minute since I've read a horror romance, and this one was scortching hot. This carnival ride was fast-paced, fun, and a deliciously smutty good time. Arden Hart knows how to grab your attention and keep one wildly entertained. With morally grey, completely unhinged characters, this book was easy to devour.
Elias and Jules easily have one of those intense instant physical connections that made me melt into a puddle from the heat.
It was such a great start to the Seven Sins series. I can't wait for more.
Tropes:
Carnival
Possesive MMC
Vigilante
Reporter + Carnie
Kidnapping
Explicit
Dual POV
Check TW
March 27, 2026
I read this like a guilty pleasure - filthy in the best sense of the word, and I enjoyed every filthy moment. I am starting to love Arden's writing and imagination. She hasn't failed me yet.
Elias's voice is the filthy diamond - charming, predatory, and filthy. He dresses up in his filth and asks you to be proud of him. That pride and past trauma make the dirt relatable rather than just salacious.
Jules is the scalpel to the filth. She clarifies the stakes, the tension, and Elias. His desire to have her killed,fucked, or saved makes the filth personal. Dirt becomes love; evil becomes desire.
Filthy? Absolutely. Satisfying? Completely. I want more.
Elias's voice is the filthy diamond - charming, predatory, and filthy. He dresses up in his filth and asks you to be proud of him. That pride and past trauma make the dirt relatable rather than just salacious.
Jules is the scalpel to the filth. She clarifies the stakes, the tension, and Elias. His desire to have her killed,
Filthy? Absolutely. Satisfying? Completely. I want more.
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