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The Twelve Nights of Christmas #1
His Forbidden Bargain
Twelve nights. Twelve patrons. One debt erased.
When Kathryn inherits her family’s manor, she also inherits an impossible debt—and a deadline of Christmas Day.
If she fails, the Collector will take everything.
Including her.
Her last hope arrives on horseback: Sebastian, her estranged stepbrother.
The vampire from her past she never truly escaped.
Sebastian cannot pay the debt—but he knows how to erase it.
Twelve nights. Twelve patrons. One price she must endure.
He will choose the clients.
He will oversee every arrangement.
And he will ensure she sees it through.
This is not a love story—yet.
His Forbidden Bargain is Book One of The Twelve Nights of Christmas, a twelve-part dark paranormal romance series of short novellas designed to be enjoyed in one sitting, with the Happily Ever After reserved for the final book.
Each gothic dark romance story is fast-paced and spicy, following Kathryn and Sebastian's descent into power, survival, and a bond that should never have been tested.
Her bargain has begun.
And every night will cost her more.
Dark paranormal romance MF (Vampire X Human) Age-Gap Extremely Spicy Second-chance Slow-Burn Mature themes Dual POV.
When Kathryn inherits her family’s manor, she also inherits an impossible debt—and a deadline of Christmas Day.
If she fails, the Collector will take everything.
Including her.
Her last hope arrives on horseback: Sebastian, her estranged stepbrother.
The vampire from her past she never truly escaped.
Sebastian cannot pay the debt—but he knows how to erase it.
Twelve nights. Twelve patrons. One price she must endure.
He will choose the clients.
He will oversee every arrangement.
And he will ensure she sees it through.
This is not a love story—yet.
His Forbidden Bargain is Book One of The Twelve Nights of Christmas, a twelve-part dark paranormal romance series of short novellas designed to be enjoyed in one sitting, with the Happily Ever After reserved for the final book.
Each gothic dark romance story is fast-paced and spicy, following Kathryn and Sebastian's descent into power, survival, and a bond that should never have been tested.
Her bargain has begun.
And every night will cost her more.
Dark paranormal romance MF (Vampire X Human) Age-Gap Extremely Spicy Second-chance Slow-Burn Mature themes Dual POV.
- GenresDark RomanceVampires
101 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2025
6 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Fayton
10 books159 followers 🎁Looking for Bonus Chapters? Sign up to my newsletter to receive FREE bonus content and be notified of my upcoming releases.
✨You can find my books on Amazon
✨For Content/Trigger Warnings please visit darcyfayton.com
✨Author Bio:
Darcy Fayton crafts fireside tales set in gothic castles, overflowing with forbidden love, emotional angst, scorching spice, witty banter, and a touch of magic. Her stories feature morally grey yet gentlemanly heroes with sweet sides and glimmers of redemption, perfect for readers who love complex characters. Her bestselling debut, Collared by the Vampire Prince*, is the ideal starting point for new readers. Her family thinks she writes sweet romance—but oh, if only they knew!
*Previously published as the bestselling 'Plug and Claim'
✨Click here for easy links to my books on Amazon, Bookbub, and more.
✨You can find my books on Amazon
✨For Content/Trigger Warnings please visit darcyfayton.com
✨Author Bio:
Darcy Fayton crafts fireside tales set in gothic castles, overflowing with forbidden love, emotional angst, scorching spice, witty banter, and a touch of magic. Her stories feature morally grey yet gentlemanly heroes with sweet sides and glimmers of redemption, perfect for readers who love complex characters. Her bestselling debut, Collared by the Vampire Prince*, is the ideal starting point for new readers. Her family thinks she writes sweet romance—but oh, if only they knew!
*Previously published as the bestselling 'Plug and Claim'
✨Click here for easy links to my books on Amazon, Bookbub, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
December 29, 2025
Hard one to rate really,
Spice wise its maybe a 🌶🌶🌶 though not because of frequency/amount, but because of its darkness, however some with higher sensitivities may class this as a 4 or 5🌶 read.
Tropes/heads up-
Very dark
Humiliating behavior
Voyuer
Con non con/sa
Degredation
Damsel in distress
Vamps, wolves and humans
Manor house with Butler and staff
He washes her hair
Physical violence
Paying off her debt
I have just finished this, I thought at first it would be all 12 nights in one book, but then I noticed the page count and realised its 1 night per book. So then I hoped for detailed history/world building because I have read some of this authors work before and although her books are smut and very, VERY DARK, there's usually great plot and world building considering again, that its a smut book.
This book however was to the point and snappy- so, if you want a pure smut read with a decent plot, then this is it! You get degradation, con non con/ sa, shaming and humiliating scenes, and all sorts of dark dark pages!
But- if your a fantasy reader, and you want plot with a ton of smut, then this may leave you a star or two shy of the full set- hence my rating.
There is nothing bad to say about this book, I only gave it 4 because my personal preference would have been to have more development with the main characters relationship, more history on the mother and step dad, and a little more to the background of the magic contract... but thats because im a fantasy reader.
Final thoughts- if you want a very dark read, with smut, wolves, vamps and humans that also provides you with an escape into sin for an hour or two, then pick this up- or any Darcy Fayton book!
Lots of trigger warnings on this one so look them up.
No breeding, no booty play, no toys or other objects, no spitting or waterspouts, only male and female fun but cross species. I'll leave it there as to not ruin the book.
Spice wise its maybe a 🌶🌶🌶 though not because of frequency/amount, but because of its darkness, however some with higher sensitivities may class this as a 4 or 5🌶 read.
Tropes/heads up-
Very dark
Humiliating behavior
Voyuer
Con non con/sa
Degredation
Damsel in distress
Vamps, wolves and humans
Manor house with Butler and staff
He washes her hair
Physical violence
Paying off her debt
I have just finished this, I thought at first it would be all 12 nights in one book, but then I noticed the page count and realised its 1 night per book. So then I hoped for detailed history/world building because I have read some of this authors work before and although her books are smut and very, VERY DARK, there's usually great plot and world building considering again, that its a smut book.
This book however was to the point and snappy- so, if you want a pure smut read with a decent plot, then this is it! You get degradation, con non con/ sa, shaming and humiliating scenes, and all sorts of dark dark pages!
But- if your a fantasy reader, and you want plot with a ton of smut, then this may leave you a star or two shy of the full set- hence my rating.
There is nothing bad to say about this book, I only gave it 4 because my personal preference would have been to have more development with the main characters relationship, more history on the mother and step dad, and a little more to the background of the magic contract... but thats because im a fantasy reader.
Final thoughts- if you want a very dark read, with smut, wolves, vamps and humans that also provides you with an escape into sin for an hour or two, then pick this up- or any Darcy Fayton book!
Lots of trigger warnings on this one so look them up.
No breeding, no booty play, no toys or other objects, no spitting or waterspouts, only male and female fun but cross species. I'll leave it there as to not ruin the book.
January 8, 2026
Dark Bargains, Missing Consent
When I came across this short story on BookSirens , I felt a spark of genuine excitement. At roughly 100 pages, it promised a brisk plunge into a new dark paranormal romance series, and that is usually my sweet spot for in-between-epic-fantasy-tomes. I have already read several books by Darcy Fayton, and while those stories carried a dark, morally gray undertone, they also had an internal logic I could follow. The shadows were intentional, the danger framed, and most importantly, consent was always present even when the scenarios were provocative or uncomfortable. Because of that track record, my expectations were cautiously optimistic.
This installment, however, felt different in a way that left me unsettled rather than intrigued.
His Forbidden Bargain ♦ Darcy Fayton - A Review
Opinion
Morally gray dark romance is not exactly a gentle genre. It often explores power imbalances, taboo desires, and situations that brush against the edge of comfort. I expect that. What I also expect is clarity around agency. In previous reads from this author, consent existed even when it was buried under layers of tension, fear, or reluctant desire. Here, that foundation felt cracked. Kathryn, the FMC, is placed into a bargain that strips her of meaningful choice, and the story does not interrogate that loss in a way that felt intentional or critical. Instead, it is treated as a grim inevitability, and that choice made it hard for me to stay emotionally invested.
Sebastian, the MMC, did not help matters. Dark romance often thrives on dangerous charm, on characters who are terrible on paper but magnetic on the page. Sebastian never crossed that line for me. His history with Kathryn, including grooming her years before they reunite, is presented as part of the gothic atmosphere rather than as something that demands narrative reckoning. I found nothing alluring in him, no sharp edge of complexity that made me want to understand him despite his actions. He felt controlling without being compelling, and powerful without being interesting.
The premise itself is undeniably hooky. Twelve nights, twelve patrons, one debt erased by Christmas. The blurb promises a descent into power, survival, and a bond that should never have been tested. On a structural level, the idea works. The pacing is fast, the prose is clean, and the novella format suits the urgency of the countdown. I can see how this series could become bingeable, especially for readers who enjoy episodic dark romance with paranormal elements like vampires, wolfshifters, and humans colliding under high stakes.
But execution matters more than concept. For me, the absence of clear consent overshadowed everything else. Dark does not have to mean careless, and taboo does not have to mean unexamined. I wanted the story to either grant Kathryn more agency or more explicitly frame her lack of it as a horror to be challenged later. Instead, it hovered in an uncomfortable middle space, neither fully condemned nor thoughtfully explored.
Conclusion
That said, this is not a total write-off. A 2.75-star rating reflects that there are pieces here that still work. The atmosphere is moody, the seasonal gothic setting is effective, and the overarching series arc has potential. I am willing to give the second book a chance, mostly because I want to see whether the consent issues are addressed with more seriousness and care as the story progresses. If there is no meaningful curve in that area, I will step away from the series, regardless of how many supernatural beings are added to the mix.
In the end, His Forbidden Bargain left me conflicted. It intrigued me enough to keep reading, but troubled me enough to hesitate. For a genre built on walking the line between danger and desire, balance is everything, and here, that balance felt just slightly off-kilter.
Through BookSirens I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
When I came across this short story on BookSirens , I felt a spark of genuine excitement. At roughly 100 pages, it promised a brisk plunge into a new dark paranormal romance series, and that is usually my sweet spot for in-between-epic-fantasy-tomes. I have already read several books by Darcy Fayton, and while those stories carried a dark, morally gray undertone, they also had an internal logic I could follow. The shadows were intentional, the danger framed, and most importantly, consent was always present even when the scenarios were provocative or uncomfortable. Because of that track record, my expectations were cautiously optimistic.
This installment, however, felt different in a way that left me unsettled rather than intrigued.
His Forbidden Bargain ♦ Darcy Fayton - A Review
Opinion
Morally gray dark romance is not exactly a gentle genre. It often explores power imbalances, taboo desires, and situations that brush against the edge of comfort. I expect that. What I also expect is clarity around agency. In previous reads from this author, consent existed even when it was buried under layers of tension, fear, or reluctant desire. Here, that foundation felt cracked. Kathryn, the FMC, is placed into a bargain that strips her of meaningful choice, and the story does not interrogate that loss in a way that felt intentional or critical. Instead, it is treated as a grim inevitability, and that choice made it hard for me to stay emotionally invested.
Sebastian, the MMC, did not help matters. Dark romance often thrives on dangerous charm, on characters who are terrible on paper but magnetic on the page. Sebastian never crossed that line for me. His history with Kathryn, including grooming her years before they reunite, is presented as part of the gothic atmosphere rather than as something that demands narrative reckoning. I found nothing alluring in him, no sharp edge of complexity that made me want to understand him despite his actions. He felt controlling without being compelling, and powerful without being interesting.
The premise itself is undeniably hooky. Twelve nights, twelve patrons, one debt erased by Christmas. The blurb promises a descent into power, survival, and a bond that should never have been tested. On a structural level, the idea works. The pacing is fast, the prose is clean, and the novella format suits the urgency of the countdown. I can see how this series could become bingeable, especially for readers who enjoy episodic dark romance with paranormal elements like vampires, wolfshifters, and humans colliding under high stakes.
But execution matters more than concept. For me, the absence of clear consent overshadowed everything else. Dark does not have to mean careless, and taboo does not have to mean unexamined. I wanted the story to either grant Kathryn more agency or more explicitly frame her lack of it as a horror to be challenged later. Instead, it hovered in an uncomfortable middle space, neither fully condemned nor thoughtfully explored.
Conclusion
That said, this is not a total write-off. A 2.75-star rating reflects that there are pieces here that still work. The atmosphere is moody, the seasonal gothic setting is effective, and the overarching series arc has potential. I am willing to give the second book a chance, mostly because I want to see whether the consent issues are addressed with more seriousness and care as the story progresses. If there is no meaningful curve in that area, I will step away from the series, regardless of how many supernatural beings are added to the mix.
In the end, His Forbidden Bargain left me conflicted. It intrigued me enough to keep reading, but troubled me enough to hesitate. For a genre built on walking the line between danger and desire, balance is everything, and here, that balance felt just slightly off-kilter.
Through BookSirens I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
December 31, 2025
MAKE SURE TO READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
All in all a good fast paced read, the plot easy to follow, set at Christmas time, but by no means a festive holiday book. It is a dual pov, i love a pov as you get to see more than one side of a story. It features supernatural creature and humans, another favourite, enemies to lover, well there is tension but i can see it will develop in the upcoming books.
I rated it 3 stars, nothing toward the author but i am not sure if it is over my limit of comfort when it comes to reading dark romance/pitch black books.
It was maybe a bit to much for me, but it hasn't put me off wanting to read book2 and the rest that follows. Who knows, i may find i enjoy them.
But book1 has left me a little stumped lol.
Again anyone reading a certain genre besure to read the trigger warnings. As not all genres are for everyone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
All in all a good fast paced read, the plot easy to follow, set at Christmas time, but by no means a festive holiday book. It is a dual pov, i love a pov as you get to see more than one side of a story. It features supernatural creature and humans, another favourite, enemies to lover, well there is tension but i can see it will develop in the upcoming books.
I rated it 3 stars, nothing toward the author but i am not sure if it is over my limit of comfort when it comes to reading dark romance/pitch black books.
It was maybe a bit to much for me, but it hasn't put me off wanting to read book2 and the rest that follows. Who knows, i may find i enjoy them.
But book1 has left me a little stumped lol.
Again anyone reading a certain genre besure to read the trigger warnings. As not all genres are for everyone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 25, 2025
This is the first in a new dark paranormal romance series with taboo themes and intense content.
I loved the idea of the 12 days of Christmas, and a dark deal/exchange paying off the family debt, and it feels like it's only going to get more twisted.
It's a toxic world full of vampires and shifters, and dark characters that prey on the innocent. Its also the start of a conflicted and possessive stepbrother romance.
I loved the idea of the 12 days of Christmas, and a dark deal/exchange paying off the family debt, and it feels like it's only going to get more twisted.
It's a toxic world full of vampires and shifters, and dark characters that prey on the innocent. Its also the start of a conflicted and possessive stepbrother romance.
January 1, 2026
I am voluntarily leaving this review, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to BookSirens and Darcy Fayton for an eARC copy.
🔥🔥🔥🔥 - Spicy Rating
⭐⭐⭐ - Storyline Rating
Twelve Nights. Twelve Patrons. One Night Erased.
☠️Vampire MMC x Human FMC
⛓️Step-Siblings
☠️Shifter / Paranormal
⛓️Bargain / Deal
☠️Second Chance
⛓️Pitch-Black / Dark Romance
🔥Slow-Burn Romance MF Relationship
☠️Dual POV
"His Forbidden Bargain" is the first book in a short spicy, paranormal novella series with a Christmas setting but this is absolutely NOT a festive read. The storyline gave me 'Wuthering Heights' vibes, the relationship struggles between Sebastian and Kathryn (ironically) with a step-sibling, vampire twist. Darcy Fayton's is a fantastic writer, really enjoyed the gothic, dark romance undertone and she delivered a brilliant plot of deceit, bargain and consequence intertwined with a relentless bond. It was fast-paced, emotional and borderline pitch-black.
My rating 3.25/3.5 was lowered due to the lack of development with the FMC/MMC and their parents. Kathryn's mother is mentioned often, there is clearly a close relationship with secrets, and more potential lies. I'd like to have understood that dynamic a little more (perhaps we will in future stories) - yet this brings feelings of conflict because 'HFB' is a short novella, so would I like to read a full-length book on Sebastian and Kathryn ... HELL YEAH!! I would only recommend this to experienced readers of VERY dark content and no triggers as the whole plot could be difficult to digest.
Trigger warnings are important for all readers and understanding that this is not a love story. Non-consent, dubious consent, knotting, damsel-in-distress, SA, degradation to be aware of. I will read more of Darcy's work this year.
🔥🔥🔥🔥 - Spicy Rating
⭐⭐⭐ - Storyline Rating
Twelve Nights. Twelve Patrons. One Night Erased.
☠️Vampire MMC x Human FMC
⛓️Step-Siblings
☠️Shifter / Paranormal
⛓️Bargain / Deal
☠️Second Chance
⛓️Pitch-Black / Dark Romance
🔥Slow-Burn Romance MF Relationship
☠️Dual POV
"His Forbidden Bargain" is the first book in a short spicy, paranormal novella series with a Christmas setting but this is absolutely NOT a festive read. The storyline gave me 'Wuthering Heights' vibes, the relationship struggles between Sebastian and Kathryn (ironically) with a step-sibling, vampire twist. Darcy Fayton's is a fantastic writer, really enjoyed the gothic, dark romance undertone and she delivered a brilliant plot of deceit, bargain and consequence intertwined with a relentless bond. It was fast-paced, emotional and borderline pitch-black.
My rating 3.25/3.5 was lowered due to the lack of development with the FMC/MMC and their parents. Kathryn's mother is mentioned often, there is clearly a close relationship with secrets, and more potential lies. I'd like to have understood that dynamic a little more (perhaps we will in future stories) - yet this brings feelings of conflict because 'HFB' is a short novella, so would I like to read a full-length book on Sebastian and Kathryn ... HELL YEAH!! I would only recommend this to experienced readers of VERY dark content and no triggers as the whole plot could be difficult to digest.
Trigger warnings are important for all readers and understanding that this is not a love story. Non-consent, dubious consent, knotting, damsel-in-distress, SA, degradation to be aware of. I will read more of Darcy's work this year.
January 1, 2026
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
His Forbidden Bargain is a dark, taboo paranormal romance novella — and the first in what promises to be a heavy, emotionally charged series. If you’re looking for happiness, comfort, or easy answers… this is not that book.
Kathryn is a heartbreaking FMC. She has nowhere to go, no safety net, and no hope left when she’s forced into an impossible situation. Watching her reach that breaking point was painful in the most intentional way. Sebastian, the MMC and her ex-stepbrother, is her only option — and the bargain he agrees to is as desperate as it is devastating.
This book is drenched in hopelessness. You feel for both characters deeply, even when their choices are uncomfortable or morally grey. There’s a constant sense of loss, tension, and unease that sits with you long after you finish reading. It absolutely leaves you on a cliffhanger, wondering where this story is headed and what will ultimately become of these two broken characters.
There is spice, but it isn’t steamy-hot — it’s darker, restrained, and fits the tone of the story rather than overpowering it. This was a very different kind of read for me, but one I still devoured in a single sitting, completely invested in where the series might go next.
Tropes:
⭐️ Vampire / Human Romance
⭐️ Second Chance Romance
⭐️ Slow Burn
⭐️ Dual POV
Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in — there are multiple red flags and darker themes that won’t be comfortable for everyone.
I’m very curious to see what Darcy Fayton does next with this world and these characters.
His Forbidden Bargain is a dark, taboo paranormal romance novella — and the first in what promises to be a heavy, emotionally charged series. If you’re looking for happiness, comfort, or easy answers… this is not that book.
Kathryn is a heartbreaking FMC. She has nowhere to go, no safety net, and no hope left when she’s forced into an impossible situation. Watching her reach that breaking point was painful in the most intentional way. Sebastian, the MMC and her ex-stepbrother, is her only option — and the bargain he agrees to is as desperate as it is devastating.
This book is drenched in hopelessness. You feel for both characters deeply, even when their choices are uncomfortable or morally grey. There’s a constant sense of loss, tension, and unease that sits with you long after you finish reading. It absolutely leaves you on a cliffhanger, wondering where this story is headed and what will ultimately become of these two broken characters.
There is spice, but it isn’t steamy-hot — it’s darker, restrained, and fits the tone of the story rather than overpowering it. This was a very different kind of read for me, but one I still devoured in a single sitting, completely invested in where the series might go next.
Tropes:
⭐️ Vampire / Human Romance
⭐️ Second Chance Romance
⭐️ Slow Burn
⭐️ Dual POV
Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in — there are multiple red flags and darker themes that won’t be comfortable for everyone.
I’m very curious to see what Darcy Fayton does next with this world and these characters.
January 1, 2026
I was happy to receive this book as an ARC and was really looking forward to trying a shorter dark romance novella, and let me tell you, I didn’t regret it for a second 🖤 This book truly opened up my interest in trying more short novellas and exploring the genre further.
Such an interesting and tragic storyline in different ways, yet so well executed in a shorter format ✨ Dark and spicy, without a doubt, and if you know you enjoy these genres, or want to try them like I did, this is an EXCELLENT choice! I truly recommend this novella with a dark theme and touches of romance ❤️🔥
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series!📚
Such an interesting and tragic storyline in different ways, yet so well executed in a shorter format ✨ Dark and spicy, without a doubt, and if you know you enjoy these genres, or want to try them like I did, this is an EXCELLENT choice! I truly recommend this novella with a dark theme and touches of romance ❤️🔥
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series!📚
January 2, 2026
I just can’t with this one lol. I love spice, I love anything vampire. I deal with the step brother trope. But this took all of that to a whole new level. The drama was at its peak as she agreed to pay off this debt to 12 men in 12 nights. My word, how did she survive!? The spice in this was hotter than a ghost pepper. This was definitely a snow melting, hot read of a novella. I’m sooooo looking forward to the next one.
January 1, 2026
Darcy Fayton is a fantastic writer, her description in this dark fantasy romance novella sets the scene and builds the world brilliantly and succinctly. It's not a pretty romance, and you should definitely check trigger warnings because this one is pretty brutal.
That said, the story is compelling, the world beautifully created in such a short time, and I would definitely want to read the next one.
That said, the story is compelling, the world beautifully created in such a short time, and I would definitely want to read the next one.
January 2, 2026
A fast paced read, a well written novella, set at Christmas time, but by no means a festive holiday book. It's not a pretty romance, and you should definitely check trigger warnings because this one is fairly brutal.
I received this as an arc and this is my honest review.
I received this as an arc and this is my honest review.
December 30, 2025
This was a tough read, not because of the author, but because of the TW. This is a DARK read and I was able to read it all in one sitting. I’m not sure how I feel about all the characters yet, but I can see that Kathryn is strong, no matter how she feels. I’m definitely intrigued with Sebastian and I want to know more about him!
December 25, 2025
This was not my type of book. However, I am invested in this story!!! Thank you, Darcy Fayton for opening my mind and sharing His Forbidden Bargain as an ARC. I have only read one other “vampire” book before, for me this was a different scale of rating.
This novella was well written. The characters are solid! You can feel the chemistry that is building between Kathryn and Sebastian… the betrayal, the torment, and the desire they have for each other.
The descriptive style of Darcy’s writing kept immersed into the story. The pace was solid!
What I really thought was neat is the way Darcy has written this novella to continue into the “12 Days of Christmas” just a darker version.
This novella was well written. The characters are solid! You can feel the chemistry that is building between Kathryn and Sebastian… the betrayal, the torment, and the desire they have for each other.
The descriptive style of Darcy’s writing kept immersed into the story. The pace was solid!
What I really thought was neat is the way Darcy has written this novella to continue into the “12 Days of Christmas” just a darker version.
December 27, 2025
And what do we say when my stepbrother agrees to let 12 men take me to pay off his debt to the bank???
…Yeah. Exactly. You’re gonna have to read it to believe it.
This book does NOT tiptoe. It kicks the door down, looks you in the eye, and says, “You ready for this mess?” The taboo is taboo-ing, the drama is DRAMA-ing, and the spice? Baby… this is not a gentle simmer — this is a full-blown inferno.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
…Yeah. Exactly. You’re gonna have to read it to believe it.
This book does NOT tiptoe. It kicks the door down, looks you in the eye, and says, “You ready for this mess?” The taboo is taboo-ing, the drama is DRAMA-ing, and the spice? Baby… this is not a gentle simmer — this is a full-blown inferno.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 26, 2025
Great start
A novella for impatient readers like me. She's a broke human with a vampire stepbrother losing her house and he comes up with a plan for her to entertain 12 men over 13 nights to save everything
A novella for impatient readers like me. She's a broke human with a vampire stepbrother losing her house and he comes up with a plan for her to entertain 12 men over 13 nights to save everything
January 10, 2026
ARC review
This Novella had potential with its dark, gothic atmosphere and morally gray characters, but it ultimately fell flat for me. The premise, a desperate woman forced into a twisted bargain with her stepbrother, sounded intriguing, but the execution left me frustrated.
The biggest issue? The lack of genuine emotional depth or chemistry between Kathryn and Sebastian. Their relationship is built on manipulation, coercion, and a history of abuse, but the story doesn’t give us enough reason to care about their dynamic. Instead of tension, I felt discomfort and detachment. The power imbalance is extreme, and while dark romance often thrives on morally gray characters, this crossed into territory that felt more exploitative than compelling.
The pacing also dragged. The first half of the book is mostly setup, with Kathryn’s desperation and Sebastian’s vague promises of help, but the actual "bargain" feels rushed and underdeveloped. The twelve-nights premise is introduced abruptly, and the stakes don’t feel as high as they should because we don’t get enough insight into Kathryn’s internal struggle or Sebastian’s true motivations beyond vague guilt.
And let’s talk about Sebastian. He’s supposed to be this brooding, conflicted vampire, but he comes off as selfish and inconsistent. One minute he’s declaring he’d give his life for Kathryn, the next he’s tying her up and handing her over to a sadistic collector. His actions don’t align with any clear goal beyond "saving" her in the most convoluted way possible. If this is supposed to be a redemption arc, it’s not off to a great start.
The writing itself is atmospheric, and I’ll give the author credit for creating a chilling, gothic setting. The world-building hints at a larger lore with vampires, shifters, and magic, but it’s not explored enough to make the story feel immersive. Instead, it often feels like shock value over substance.
This Novella had potential with its dark, gothic atmosphere and morally gray characters, but it ultimately fell flat for me. The premise, a desperate woman forced into a twisted bargain with her stepbrother, sounded intriguing, but the execution left me frustrated.
The biggest issue? The lack of genuine emotional depth or chemistry between Kathryn and Sebastian. Their relationship is built on manipulation, coercion, and a history of abuse, but the story doesn’t give us enough reason to care about their dynamic. Instead of tension, I felt discomfort and detachment. The power imbalance is extreme, and while dark romance often thrives on morally gray characters, this crossed into territory that felt more exploitative than compelling.
The pacing also dragged. The first half of the book is mostly setup, with Kathryn’s desperation and Sebastian’s vague promises of help, but the actual "bargain" feels rushed and underdeveloped. The twelve-nights premise is introduced abruptly, and the stakes don’t feel as high as they should because we don’t get enough insight into Kathryn’s internal struggle or Sebastian’s true motivations beyond vague guilt.
And let’s talk about Sebastian. He’s supposed to be this brooding, conflicted vampire, but he comes off as selfish and inconsistent. One minute he’s declaring he’d give his life for Kathryn, the next he’s tying her up and handing her over to a sadistic collector. His actions don’t align with any clear goal beyond "saving" her in the most convoluted way possible. If this is supposed to be a redemption arc, it’s not off to a great start.
The writing itself is atmospheric, and I’ll give the author credit for creating a chilling, gothic setting. The world-building hints at a larger lore with vampires, shifters, and magic, but it’s not explored enough to make the story feel immersive. Instead, it often feels like shock value over substance.
January 4, 2026
✨ ARC review ✨
3,25 stars
Phew, this is a difficult book to rate. As dark as it gets, honestly. Straight-up noncon. That's what I signed up for, so I don't mind it personally. Definitely check the TWs before diving into His Forbidden Bargain though.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's very much more dark than romance at this point. I wouldn't even categorize this as ravishment fantasy, even though . The noncon spice was well-written and terrible in the way something like this probably is supposed to be. Generally, I did like the writing, and I am curious to continue this series.
However, the pacing felt unnecessarily slow to me. 70% of the book go by before the 12 nights of christmas even start. And not much happens in the chapters leading up to it, at least not much that was of interest to me personally. A bit of lore and background story is built, though it sometimes feels a little infodumpey when it's mostly being recounted in Kathryn's thoughts. Kathryn's POV chapters especially felt kind of repetitive and drawn out, and there were much more of them than chapters from Sebastian's POV. This could have been a much shorter book, and I would have found that more enjoyable.
Be warned: There's no a HEA/HFN at the end of this novella, which is the first book in a 12-part series. I'm assuming this is being reserved for the end of the series.
Overall, this was not a bad read, but not a stellar one either. I'd consider picking up the upcoming book(s) in the series and giving it another try though.
3,25 stars
Phew, this is a difficult book to rate. As dark as it gets, honestly. Straight-up noncon. That's what I signed up for, so I don't mind it personally. Definitely check the TWs before diving into His Forbidden Bargain though.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's very much more dark than romance at this point. I wouldn't even categorize this as ravishment fantasy, even though . The noncon spice was well-written and terrible in the way something like this probably is supposed to be. Generally, I did like the writing, and I am curious to continue this series.
However, the pacing felt unnecessarily slow to me. 70% of the book go by before the 12 nights of christmas even start. And not much happens in the chapters leading up to it, at least not much that was of interest to me personally. A bit of lore and background story is built, though it sometimes feels a little infodumpey when it's mostly being recounted in Kathryn's thoughts. Kathryn's POV chapters especially felt kind of repetitive and drawn out, and there were much more of them than chapters from Sebastian's POV. This could have been a much shorter book, and I would have found that more enjoyable.
Be warned: There's no a HEA/HFN at the end of this novella, which is the first book in a 12-part series. I'm assuming this is being reserved for the end of the series.
Overall, this was not a bad read, but not a stellar one either. I'd consider picking up the upcoming book(s) in the series and giving it another try though.
January 5, 2026
This was wholly unexpected and I was absolutely hooked, more and more as the story progressed.
This is a quick read and obviously only one part of the story, but it was well written and I enjoyed the storyline. I love the main characters: Kathryn, who has been left with an insurmountable debt, does not even have the choice to run as she is magically chained to repaying it. It is a test of her inner strength and resilience as she endures endless trauma, abuse, and depravity.
Sebastian is not what I expected as a vampire, but this is no bad thing, in fact I loved it; that in a world of dangerous paranormals, he is just one of many, that he cannot save the day by ripping the heads off all of their foes, and that the horrendous bargain made might be the only chance Kathryn has of a better life if she can survive the 12 nights.
I loved it, I felt for Kathryn and Sebastian in an impossible situation, and still hope that they can find their way through the nightmare and that Sebastian will get to rip multiple heads off… please and thank you.
TRIGGERS WARNINGS!!! CHECK THEM!!!
This is an intense read and contains a lot of SA and non-consensual $ex. But I love that instead of making this a smut filled shag fest, the author focused on the absolute trauma and desolation of the acts and made it meaningful to the story. Traumatic to read but beautifully written…
This is a quick read and obviously only one part of the story, but it was well written and I enjoyed the storyline. I love the main characters: Kathryn, who has been left with an insurmountable debt, does not even have the choice to run as she is magically chained to repaying it. It is a test of her inner strength and resilience as she endures endless trauma, abuse, and depravity.
Sebastian is not what I expected as a vampire, but this is no bad thing, in fact I loved it; that in a world of dangerous paranormals, he is just one of many, that he cannot save the day by ripping the heads off all of their foes, and that the horrendous bargain made might be the only chance Kathryn has of a better life if she can survive the 12 nights.
I loved it, I felt for Kathryn and Sebastian in an impossible situation, and still hope that they can find their way through the nightmare and that Sebastian will get to rip multiple heads off… please and thank you.
TRIGGERS WARNINGS!!! CHECK THEM!!!
This is an intense read and contains a lot of SA and non-consensual $ex. But I love that instead of making this a smut filled shag fest, the author focused on the absolute trauma and desolation of the acts and made it meaningful to the story. Traumatic to read but beautifully written…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2026
His Forbidden Bargain is a seductive, shadow-laced fantasy romance built on dangerous promises and the kind of desire that should never be indulged. Darcy Fayton delivers a story where power, temptation, and consequence are tightly entwined, and every bargain made feels like a step closer to ruin.
The chemistry is intense and charged with forbidden tension, simmering beneath every interaction. The power imbalance adds a delicious layer of unease, making each moment feel risky and emotionally loaded. The darker themes are handled with intention, giving the romance a sharp edge rather than softening it into something safe or predictable.
While a few beats follow familiar fantasy-romance tropes, the atmosphere, pacing, and emotional pull keep the story compelling. The stakes feel personal, and the cost of desire is never ignored.
A solid four-star read for fans of dark fantasy romance, forbidden deals, morally grey love interests, and stories where giving in always comes with a price. 🖤📖
The chemistry is intense and charged with forbidden tension, simmering beneath every interaction. The power imbalance adds a delicious layer of unease, making each moment feel risky and emotionally loaded. The darker themes are handled with intention, giving the romance a sharp edge rather than softening it into something safe or predictable.
While a few beats follow familiar fantasy-romance tropes, the atmosphere, pacing, and emotional pull keep the story compelling. The stakes feel personal, and the cost of desire is never ignored.
A solid four-star read for fans of dark fantasy romance, forbidden deals, morally grey love interests, and stories where giving in always comes with a price. 🖤📖
January 7, 2026
FMC: Kathryn - human
MMC: Sebastian - Vampire
Secondary character:
Braggon the collector - wolf
His forbidden Bargain is a short novella that is part of a 12 book series about the 12 nights of Christmas.
Please check your trigger warnings as it is quite dark.
Kathryn is left Rookvane Manor and all of its debts that she cannot repay. She writes to her stepbrother for help, he unfortunately does not have the means to repay her debt but knows of a way to get the debts paid off. 12 nights, 12 different men and her debt will be gone.
The first night of debt is sold to Braggon himself.
This was a quick read and I finished it in one evening.
Darcy Fayton does an amazing job at describing the dark vibes and the characters. I really like her writing style. There was just the right amount happening plot-wise to keep me engaged in the story.
This was not by type of book but I did end up finishing it and would love to know what happens next.
If you like dark paranormal reads this is the book for you.
MMC: Sebastian - Vampire
Secondary character:
Braggon the collector - wolf
His forbidden Bargain is a short novella that is part of a 12 book series about the 12 nights of Christmas.
Please check your trigger warnings as it is quite dark.
Kathryn is left Rookvane Manor and all of its debts that she cannot repay. She writes to her stepbrother for help, he unfortunately does not have the means to repay her debt but knows of a way to get the debts paid off. 12 nights, 12 different men and her debt will be gone.
The first night of debt is sold to Braggon himself.
This was a quick read and I finished it in one evening.
Darcy Fayton does an amazing job at describing the dark vibes and the characters. I really like her writing style. There was just the right amount happening plot-wise to keep me engaged in the story.
This was not by type of book but I did end up finishing it and would love to know what happens next.
If you like dark paranormal reads this is the book for you.
January 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
First - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This one was… interesting. Definitely not what I was expecting 😅
Not bad at all, but it did take me a bit to really get into it and since it’s a short novella, that slower start could potentially deter some readers.
That said, once it picked up, it became a solid, quick read. The villain is absolutely awful (and not in a lovable way), but it’s clear there are more villains to come, which adds intrigue. This installment feels very much like a setup piece, laying the groundwork for what’s ahead rather than delivering a full payoff.
Overall, it’s a good, fast read, and I’d be interested in continuing the story to see where things go next and how everything unfolds.
⚠️ Important: Be sure to read the trigger warnings before diving in, especially if you’re sensitive to certain subject matter.
First - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This one was… interesting. Definitely not what I was expecting 😅
Not bad at all, but it did take me a bit to really get into it and since it’s a short novella, that slower start could potentially deter some readers.
That said, once it picked up, it became a solid, quick read. The villain is absolutely awful (and not in a lovable way), but it’s clear there are more villains to come, which adds intrigue. This installment feels very much like a setup piece, laying the groundwork for what’s ahead rather than delivering a full payoff.
Overall, it’s a good, fast read, and I’d be interested in continuing the story to see where things go next and how everything unfolds.
⚠️ Important: Be sure to read the trigger warnings before diving in, especially if you’re sensitive to certain subject matter.
December 23, 2025
This book had me immediately obsessed. The gothic atmosphere is written so vividly and the characters so beautifully. It made it so easy to be completely immersed in Kathryn and all that she was feeling and enduring. The creativity of the ‘repayment’ plan is top tier. I personally have not read anything like it yet, and I was intrigued the whole time.
I can��t forget, of course, our delicious MMC, Sebastian. Obviously, he’s our deeply flawed and morally charcoal kind of perfect book boyfriend.
Everything in this relationship is toxic and intense and complicated and soooo deliciously satisfying. There were definitely a few times where I caught myself going, “well damn… I did not expect to find that hot.”
With that being said, this is not a light read, but if you enjoy dark paranormal romance with strong gothic vibes, THIS IS THE ONE. I cannot wait until the next installment!
I can��t forget, of course, our delicious MMC, Sebastian. Obviously, he’s our deeply flawed and morally charcoal kind of perfect book boyfriend.
Everything in this relationship is toxic and intense and complicated and soooo deliciously satisfying. There were definitely a few times where I caught myself going, “well damn… I did not expect to find that hot.”
With that being said, this is not a light read, but if you enjoy dark paranormal romance with strong gothic vibes, THIS IS THE ONE. I cannot wait until the next installment!
December 25, 2025
The Price
I do enjoy this author so much her unique talent always has me thinking. This bit is as interesting as it has a odd feel about if.
There is a backstory that is hinted at. It will be interesting to see where the next books takes us.
She is fighting for existence under secrets yet revealed. A mountain of debt she can't possibly cover. She was a tad bit annoying but I get the why. He... As a vampire surprised me. His lack of fight/strength. There underlying feeling prominent, though they hide them well.
This bargain he made on her behalf could destroy what he's wanted most. For her the paces her body goes through she fights but yet its an underlying need, a want. Hmm a bit of Stockholms maybe or?
Interesting plot. Can't wait to see what the next 11 brings us Enjoy
I do enjoy this author so much her unique talent always has me thinking. This bit is as interesting as it has a odd feel about if.
There is a backstory that is hinted at. It will be interesting to see where the next books takes us.
She is fighting for existence under secrets yet revealed. A mountain of debt she can't possibly cover. She was a tad bit annoying but I get the why. He... As a vampire surprised me. His lack of fight/strength. There underlying feeling prominent, though they hide them well.
This bargain he made on her behalf could destroy what he's wanted most. For her the paces her body goes through she fights but yet its an underlying need, a want. Hmm a bit of Stockholms maybe or?
Interesting plot. Can't wait to see what the next 11 brings us Enjoy
January 11, 2026
I received this book as an advanced reader copy and I want to thank the author for choosing me to read this book. I have a hard time rating this book maybe because it’s only one night of twelve and it’s hard to rate how I feel on just a bit or what. This book definitely delivers on dark vampire romance but it’s also kinda hard to really see the romance aspect of it right now. Decently spicy so for someone who doesn’t like spice I would not recommend this book. But I’m intrigued to see what comes next.
January 4, 2026
What is the truth behind the binding debt?
If you are triggered do not read. There are so many twists that it makes your mind ask so many questions. Was he protecting her in the past for the future? Was her Mother subjected to the same fate? Was her life a lie? So many questions can’t wait to find how Sebastian (vampire stepbrother) is a huge part of all of this…so I think.
If you are triggered do not read. There are so many twists that it makes your mind ask so many questions. Was he protecting her in the past for the future? Was her Mother subjected to the same fate? Was her life a lie? So many questions can’t wait to find how Sebastian (vampire stepbrother) is a huge part of all of this…so I think.
January 16, 2026
3.5/4⭐️
3🌶️
It was such an Interesting and quite unique dark romance christmas novella! If you love a dark and spicy taboo romance then this is for you!🖤 It definitely had its dark themes so check your trigger warnings, but if you have none like me and love DARK romance then you’ll really enjoy this one! It was a quick fast paced read and was really easy to follow along so you get lost in the story fast! I’m definitely excited for the rest of the story/next book!🫶🏻
3🌶️
It was such an Interesting and quite unique dark romance christmas novella! If you love a dark and spicy taboo romance then this is for you!🖤 It definitely had its dark themes so check your trigger warnings, but if you have none like me and love DARK romance then you’ll really enjoy this one! It was a quick fast paced read and was really easy to follow along so you get lost in the story fast! I’m definitely excited for the rest of the story/next book!🫶🏻
January 4, 2026
ARC READER
This definitely started off 2026 with a bang. Although this book takes place at Christmas time it is in no way a Christmas book. Definitely dark, definitely twisty. But color me intrigued to see what the other books in the series will be like. I also appreciate that it got right into the plot and didn’t add a bunch of fluff to fill pages. We all need a nice quickie sometimes!
This definitely started off 2026 with a bang. Although this book takes place at Christmas time it is in no way a Christmas book. Definitely dark, definitely twisty. But color me intrigued to see what the other books in the series will be like. I also appreciate that it got right into the plot and didn’t add a bunch of fluff to fill pages. We all need a nice quickie sometimes!
January 7, 2026
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS BELOW ***
Short and quick novella to read. Definitely loved Sebastian, waiting to see how he grows, grovels and exactly WHAT his backstory is. Poor Katherine, I can see how things are gonna get much worse before they get better. Her mother should not have left her to go into all of this blind. Dying to see where this will go over the next eleven.
Short and quick novella to read. Definitely loved Sebastian, waiting to see how he grows, grovels and exactly WHAT his backstory is. Poor Katherine, I can see how things are gonna get much worse before they get better. Her mother should not have left her to go into all of this blind. Dying to see where this will go over the next eleven.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2026
I’m not sure how to feel about this book.
To me it was kind of.. boring? But it’s really hard to determine if I like this book, until I read more than 1 night out of the 12.. maybe all nights plus whatever help tie it together?
It was very light as well, at least for me. Always check the triggers for yourself though.
To me it was kind of.. boring? But it’s really hard to determine if I like this book, until I read more than 1 night out of the 12.. maybe all nights plus whatever help tie it together?
It was very light as well, at least for me. Always check the triggers for yourself though.
January 14, 2026
I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one. It puts you in a place where you know her pain as well as her step brothers. How sometimes there is no other choice in life but to survive and do what you must to achieve that. It pulls on your heartstrings for her. How she is put in this situation by other people's choices. It makes you angry that they did this to her.
January 3, 2026
1 Down 11 To Go
This was a slow burn but a quick read. For sure check the trigger warnings! Packed with dark romantasy. Vampires and Werewolfs. A heart breaking first read but with that said, I'm anticipating book 2.
This was a slow burn but a quick read. For sure check the trigger warnings! Packed with dark romantasy. Vampires and Werewolfs. A heart breaking first read but with that said, I'm anticipating book 2.
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