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The Twelve Nights of Christmas #1
His Forbidden Bargain
HAUNTING ADELINE × BEAUTY AND THE BEAST IN THIS DARK GOTHIC ROMANTASY
🔥 What if your stepbrother couldn’t save you—only decide who gets to claim you?
This is Book 1 in an Enemies to Lovers Dark Romantasy Series of Forbidden Desire and Twisted Power.
With her castle manor bound to a debt she cannot repay, and a collector who will kill her if she fails, Kathryn sends one desperate letter to her stepbrother, Sebastian—never expecting he would answer.
Yet he rides through the night to reach her doorstep
“Of course I came,” he says softly. “I will always come for you.”
But Sebastian cannot pay her debt.
He can only make a bargain:
Twelve nights. Twelve wealthy patrons.
And she must please them all—or her life is forfeit.
Sebastian chooses the men. He makes the arrangements. He ensures she obeys.
Because this is the only way she survives.
And he won't let her escape.
Every night, candlelight spills across silk sheets where they bed her.
She must endure it—the humiliation. The degradation.
And from the shadows, Sebastian sees everything.
Every touch. Every thrust. Every moan that should have been his.
It destroys him.
But he won't stop it—even if she hates him for it.
And she does.
Degraded and humiliated, Kathryn vows she'll never forgive him.
She has no idea how deep her stepbrother's secrets run—or that he’s hopelessly in love with her.
🖤 His Forbidden Bargain is Book One of The Twelve Nights of Christmas, a continuous dark romance told in a 12-part series of novellas, each designed to be enjoyed in one sitting.
Not a holiday romance. Just dark, addictive storytelling you can binge any time of year.
Perfect for readers who love spicy dark romance, gothic castles, and taboo themes.
📢 Start reading now. The bargain begins tonight.
🖤 DARK ROMANTASY TROPES:
✅ Gothic castle setting
✅ Vampire × human
✅ Age gap (23F / 30M)
✅ Morally grey hero
✅ Yearning, angst, & hurt/comfort
✅ Forced proximity & power imbalance
✅ Forced sharing, exhibitionism & voyeurism
✅ Extreme Spice: High heat in every novella
✅ Slow-Burn: the M/F romance unfolds across the series
✅ Dual POV, first person present
✅ Series HEA (Happily Ever After)
🔥 What if your stepbrother couldn’t save you—only decide who gets to claim you?
This is Book 1 in an Enemies to Lovers Dark Romantasy Series of Forbidden Desire and Twisted Power.
With her castle manor bound to a debt she cannot repay, and a collector who will kill her if she fails, Kathryn sends one desperate letter to her stepbrother, Sebastian—never expecting he would answer.
Yet he rides through the night to reach her doorstep
“Of course I came,” he says softly. “I will always come for you.”
But Sebastian cannot pay her debt.
He can only make a bargain:
Twelve nights. Twelve wealthy patrons.
And she must please them all—or her life is forfeit.
Sebastian chooses the men. He makes the arrangements. He ensures she obeys.
Because this is the only way she survives.
And he won't let her escape.
Every night, candlelight spills across silk sheets where they bed her.
She must endure it—the humiliation. The degradation.
And from the shadows, Sebastian sees everything.
Every touch. Every thrust. Every moan that should have been his.
It destroys him.
But he won't stop it—even if she hates him for it.
And she does.
Degraded and humiliated, Kathryn vows she'll never forgive him.
She has no idea how deep her stepbrother's secrets run—or that he’s hopelessly in love with her.
🖤 His Forbidden Bargain is Book One of The Twelve Nights of Christmas, a continuous dark romance told in a 12-part series of novellas, each designed to be enjoyed in one sitting.
Not a holiday romance. Just dark, addictive storytelling you can binge any time of year.
Perfect for readers who love spicy dark romance, gothic castles, and taboo themes.
📢 Start reading now. The bargain begins tonight.
🖤 DARK ROMANTASY TROPES:
✅ Gothic castle setting
✅ Vampire × human
✅ Age gap (23F / 30M)
✅ Morally grey hero
✅ Yearning, angst, & hurt/comfort
✅ Forced proximity & power imbalance
✅ Forced sharing, exhibitionism & voyeurism
✅ Extreme Spice: High heat in every novella
✅ Slow-Burn: the M/F romance unfolds across the series
✅ Dual POV, first person present
✅ Series HEA (Happily Ever After)
114 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2025
About the author
Darcy Fayton
17 books190 followers🎁Want New Release Alerts for my Books? Sign up to my newsletter to be the first to know about new books, ARCs, and major updates.
✨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 family thinks she writes sweet romance—but oh, if only they knew!
2026 Update: Her bestselling debut, Collared by the Vampire Prince, along with select earlier works, is currently being rewritten and expanded as part of the upcoming Collared Duet—a darker, richer, and more immersive version of the original story.
✨Click here for easy links to my books on Amazon, Instagram, 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 family thinks she writes sweet romance—but oh, if only they knew!
2026 Update: Her bestselling debut, Collared by the Vampire Prince, along with select earlier works, is currently being rewritten and expanded as part of the upcoming Collared Duet—a darker, richer, and more immersive version of the original story.
✨Click here for easy links to my books on Amazon, Instagram, and more.
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
February 8, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I've heard of wicked step sisters but this step brother is the king of mean. Sebastian makes a deal that he thinks is the only way to save Kathryn, but it's so twisted it'll give you the heebie-jeebies. I'm hooked on this dark little book with its vampires and werewolves. I'm looking forward to book 2! Read those triggers!
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
I've heard of wicked step sisters but this step brother is the king of mean. Sebastian makes a deal that he thinks is the only way to save Kathryn, but it's so twisted it'll give you the heebie-jeebies. I'm hooked on this dark little book with its vampires and werewolves. I'm looking forward to book 2! Read those triggers!
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
April 3, 2026
Take the trigger warnings seriously! This book is unapologetically dark, and if noncon elements aren’t for you, then don’t even pick this up. I was hooked from start to finish. The pacing is smooth and continuous, avoiding the usual novella whiplash and pulls you straight in. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic actually feels earned layered, messy, and far from black and white which made me deeply invested. The noncon elements are handled with intention, and Sebastian adds a compelling contrast, offering moments of relief that deepen the story’s emotional edge.
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.
May 5, 2026
Woooeeeee this one was dark but I couldn’t stop reading it. I need to see how Kathryn comes out of this because I’m rooting for her. I’m not certain how I feel towards Sebastian. This is such a tragic spot she’s in because of her mother’s debt and her stepbrother’s foolish bargain, and she’s the one who has to carry twelve nights with twelve men to settle the debt. And Sebastian is also being tortured with this because all he wants is her and he refuses to leave her side. To see how they both come through this…I must know howhowhowhowhow. I’m hoping we see some violence and vengeance and healing.
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.
March 12, 2026
while I did enjoy the story, there was so much going on that it took me a while.to really get in to it. Will read the second one as I always continue a series. do give it a chance it will make you a bit mad and sad for the FMC.
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
March 30, 2026
Goodreads ARC Review Posted 30-03-2026
I found this book through BookSirens when I was looking to start my ARC journey, and I’m glad I did. Although I did rate this 4.5 stars, I like the book even though the end made my stomach churn. I made notes in a little notebook as I read, which was why this took almost a full hour to read, besides needing to give my eyes a break.
I’d like to start off by saying I thought all 12 nights were in one book. However, the table of contents proved otherwise. I don’t mind it, and honestly, I think that’s a wise idea having them in separate books, as it can make you think if you want to read the others if the one you finished didn’t sit right with you.
I’d like to start off with a slightly lighthearted comment before we get into the deeper, darker content. The wizard from chapter two, I believe, is an ass, and what he did was honestly rude, and my anger issues could never! I would’ve followed to beat his ass.
Now we move to the darker aspects of my review. Please note I’m blacking it out because of potential content sensitivity. Let us begin.
On a personal note: It’s safe to say, I’m gonna continue reading, just need a break before the next one. I’m going to have to for my sake if the others are like this sexually speaking, because what happened made my skin crawl and I feel sick to my stomach from it.
I found this book through BookSirens when I was looking to start my ARC journey, and I’m glad I did. Although I did rate this 4.5 stars, I like the book even though the end made my stomach churn. I made notes in a little notebook as I read, which was why this took almost a full hour to read, besides needing to give my eyes a break.
I’d like to start off by saying I thought all 12 nights were in one book. However, the table of contents proved otherwise. I don’t mind it, and honestly, I think that’s a wise idea having them in separate books, as it can make you think if you want to read the others if the one you finished didn’t sit right with you.
I’d like to start off with a slightly lighthearted comment before we get into the deeper, darker content. The wizard from chapter two, I believe, is an ass, and what he did was honestly rude, and my anger issues could never! I would’ve followed to beat his ass.
Now we move to the darker aspects of my review. Please note I’m blacking it out because of potential content sensitivity. Let us begin.
On a personal note: It’s safe to say, I’m gonna continue reading, just need a break before the next one. I’m going to have to for my sake if the others are like this sexually speaking, because what happened made my skin crawl and I feel sick to my stomach from it.
January 25, 2026
The fact that this book contained a detail trigger warning section made me so happy. It is the bare minimum to ask for books of this type to include a warning of the content, and I appreciate the author including a full breakdown of those triggers (as well as not treating the inclusion as a joke). I do suggest for people wishing to read check out that list – there’s nothing too graphic, but the rape plot line is an understandable turn away.
I picked this book up because I found the second installment and was hooked by the premise. This isn’t my typical reading, but I’ve been looking to diverse my bookshelf this year, so figured I’d take a swing with the first two books in the series. I am rather glad I decided to read this.
I wasn’t expecting anything much beyond the premise of ‘women being traded for violent rape in order to protect her home’ but was surprised by the world laid before me. The dynamic between vampires, werewolves and the humans – who exist in a lower class to the supernatural – was a rather fun discovery. I am looking forward to getting to see more of that sprinkled through the series, as well as the life Kathryn and her mother lead before this. For a world where humans are kept under the heel of the more naturally powerful, Kathryn’s mother’s ability to reclaim their ancestral home and keep them in relative comfort has me interested – especially with the implication that her mother may have engaged in some less then savory ways to provide for her daughter.
As for Sebastian – our end game love interest? - I have mixed feelings about this man. On one hand, he very clearly does care of Kathryn and wish to protect her; can easily see a romance forming between the two. On the other… I will struggle to get passed the actions he took against her in the past. But in a world set like this, ya I think I can come to enjoy him; especially with the fight he had with his father, his own new poverty and the hand he might have had in getting Kathryn in this situation, still left hanging in the air for us to discover.
One thing I enjoyed above all, was the use of white during the assault scene. The comparison to bridal attire, a loss of innocence, the shame Kathryn is now struggling with, and the sham of her ‘first time’, was a really well written and well thought through metaphor. It took what would be a rather straight forward rape scene and provided a deeper look into the whole situation. I really hope the rest of the series keeps this type of depth, and that it does not devolve into just twelve books of repetitive rape.
Please read the provided trigger warnings if you choose to read this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I picked this book up because I found the second installment and was hooked by the premise. This isn’t my typical reading, but I’ve been looking to diverse my bookshelf this year, so figured I’d take a swing with the first two books in the series. I am rather glad I decided to read this.
I wasn’t expecting anything much beyond the premise of ‘women being traded for violent rape in order to protect her home’ but was surprised by the world laid before me. The dynamic between vampires, werewolves and the humans – who exist in a lower class to the supernatural – was a rather fun discovery. I am looking forward to getting to see more of that sprinkled through the series, as well as the life Kathryn and her mother lead before this. For a world where humans are kept under the heel of the more naturally powerful, Kathryn’s mother’s ability to reclaim their ancestral home and keep them in relative comfort has me interested – especially with the implication that her mother may have engaged in some less then savory ways to provide for her daughter.
As for Sebastian – our end game love interest? - I have mixed feelings about this man. On one hand, he very clearly does care of Kathryn and wish to protect her; can easily see a romance forming between the two. On the other… I will struggle to get passed the actions he took against her in the past. But in a world set like this, ya I think I can come to enjoy him; especially with the fight he had with his father, his own new poverty and the hand he might have had in getting Kathryn in this situation, still left hanging in the air for us to discover.
One thing I enjoyed above all, was the use of white during the assault scene. The comparison to bridal attire, a loss of innocence, the shame Kathryn is now struggling with, and the sham of her ‘first time’, was a really well written and well thought through metaphor. It took what would be a rather straight forward rape scene and provided a deeper look into the whole situation. I really hope the rest of the series keeps this type of depth, and that it does not devolve into just twelve books of repetitive rape.
Please read the provided trigger warnings if you choose to read this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2026
His Forbidden Bargain by Darcy Fayton is a dark paranormal romance that lays the groundwork for what promises to be an intense and layered twelve part series. As the first installment in The Twelve Nights of Christmas, this novella introduces readers to a world of magic bound contracts, supernatural power plays, and a bargain that will cost far more than money.
Kathryn is a heroine driven by grief, loyalty, and desperation. After her mother’s death, she is left alone to face crushing debt tied to an estate that is magically bound to her. Watching her sell pieces of her past in order to preserve what little remains shows both her heartbreak and her quiet strength. Her loneliness is palpable, and her choices feel rooted in survival rather than weakness.
The paranormal elements add rich tension to the story. With a wolf shifter enforcing the debt and a powerful vampire step brother entering the picture, the supernatural dynamics create an atmosphere thick with danger and control. Sebastian’s role as a vampire adds another layer to the power imbalance and emotional complexity. His connection to Kathryn is filled with history, tension, and unresolved emotion, hinting at a deeper bond that will likely unfold across the remaining novellas.
The concept of the twelve night arrangement is bold and unsettling in the way dark romance should be. It establishes high stakes immediately and sets up a structure that clearly spans beyond this first book. While some moments feel drawn out, it is understandable given that this is only the beginning of a much larger story arc. The pacing seems intentionally designed to build tension that will carry through all twelve installments.
Darcy Fayton paints her characters in a way that suggests significant growth is coming. Kathryn’s sense of abandonment and emotional isolation is understandable, but there are clear signs that her resilience will play a major role moving forward. Sebastian’s internal conflict also adds intrigue, especially knowing the weight of what this arrangement costs him.
Overall, His Forbidden Bargain is a dark, supernatural introduction with strong atmosphere and clear long term potential. While the pacing may feel slower in spots due to the extended series structure, the foundation is compelling and leaves you curious about what each night will demand next.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
Kathryn is a heroine driven by grief, loyalty, and desperation. After her mother’s death, she is left alone to face crushing debt tied to an estate that is magically bound to her. Watching her sell pieces of her past in order to preserve what little remains shows both her heartbreak and her quiet strength. Her loneliness is palpable, and her choices feel rooted in survival rather than weakness.
The paranormal elements add rich tension to the story. With a wolf shifter enforcing the debt and a powerful vampire step brother entering the picture, the supernatural dynamics create an atmosphere thick with danger and control. Sebastian’s role as a vampire adds another layer to the power imbalance and emotional complexity. His connection to Kathryn is filled with history, tension, and unresolved emotion, hinting at a deeper bond that will likely unfold across the remaining novellas.
The concept of the twelve night arrangement is bold and unsettling in the way dark romance should be. It establishes high stakes immediately and sets up a structure that clearly spans beyond this first book. While some moments feel drawn out, it is understandable given that this is only the beginning of a much larger story arc. The pacing seems intentionally designed to build tension that will carry through all twelve installments.
Darcy Fayton paints her characters in a way that suggests significant growth is coming. Kathryn’s sense of abandonment and emotional isolation is understandable, but there are clear signs that her resilience will play a major role moving forward. Sebastian’s internal conflict also adds intrigue, especially knowing the weight of what this arrangement costs him.
Overall, His Forbidden Bargain is a dark, supernatural introduction with strong atmosphere and clear long term potential. While the pacing may feel slower in spots due to the extended series structure, the foundation is compelling and leaves you curious about what each night will demand next.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
February 21, 2026
It’s not weakness that drives Kathryn to write to her estranged stepbrother, its desperation, sharpened to a blade. She knows full well that Sebastian’s father engineered the ruin swallowing her whole, yet when the clock starts ticking down on her debt, pride becomes a luxury she can’t afford. The Collector is closing in, and his shadow stretches long. Sebastian can’t pay what she owes. Instead, he strikes a bargain. One that doesn’t drag her out of hell so much as drop her in another. Twelve patrons. Twelve nights. Each man alone with her, to do as he pleases. And if that weren’t grotesque enough, her first patron isn’t a stranger in the dark. It’s Braggon, the Collector himself. The architect of her terror. He won’t just own her debt, he’ll have a front-row seat. What makes this story coil tight in your gut is the suffocating inevitability of it all. Kathryn has no exit, no hidden door, no miracle waiting in the wings. Anyone familiar with this universe knows it devours unprotected women without remorse. Sebastian binds their fates together, ensuring the debt will be paid in flesh and obedience. You can almost understand why he chose the bargain, weighing twelve nights under his watchful eye versus being torn apart by the Collector and his pack. It’s the lesser evil. Almost. But the betrayal stings: he strikes the deal behind Kathryn’s back and presents it to her as destiny. Consent implied. Choice erased. The cruelest twist? Sebastian cares for her. He suffers, too—though his torment is the luxury of a bystander compared to the ordeal she must endure. His anguish doesn’t bleed. This story doesn’t flirt with darkness; it descends into it. Triggers aren’t incidental, they’re woven into the marrow of the narrative. Kathryn is about to be pushed past every boundary she’s ever known, and the only certainty is that the horrors will escalate and continue. Yet somehow, against my better judgment, I’m both dreading and craving what comes next
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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.
March 2, 2026
I enjoyed the first part of this gripping dark paranormal vampire romance series from an author who is new to me, but I must say right away that the story is not light reading and you should take the trigger warnings seriously!
I deliberately chose this book because I was interested in the blurb and the dynamic between the two protagonists.
The well-written plot is thrilling, fast-paced, action-packed and contains dark themes. It is a slow-burning love-hate story between a young woman and her vampire ex-stepbrother, a morally grey hero who could never forget her and only drives her further away with an unforgivable bargain.
The tension between the two and their fear, pain, longing, guilt and shame is palpable. This installment contains explicit noncon/dubcon sex scenes including sexual abuse, voyeurism, forced exhibitionism and violence.
The story continues in the next part, so there is no HEA (I assume they only find each other at the end of the series).
Kathryn Rosales lives in a world where humans, vampires and shifters coexist, and humans are at the bottom of the social hierarchy. She inherits her mother's heavily indebted family manor and has one week to pay off the debts, otherwise she will be at the mercy of the abusive Collector Braggon and his pack. Desperate, she asks her ex-stepbrother and vampire Sebastian, with whom she has a love-hate relationship, for help. Sebastian agrees to help her and takes over the negotiations with Braggon, but ends up in danger himself. Ultimately, his only option is to bargain her body for her life. Twelve patrons for twelve nights of Christmas with him supervising them...
If you like gritty paranormal romance novellas and emotional rollercoaster rides with likable protagonists and explicit sexual content, including noncon/dubcon dynamics, this book is for you.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I deliberately chose this book because I was interested in the blurb and the dynamic between the two protagonists.
The well-written plot is thrilling, fast-paced, action-packed and contains dark themes. It is a slow-burning love-hate story between a young woman and her vampire ex-stepbrother, a morally grey hero who could never forget her and only drives her further away with an unforgivable bargain.
The tension between the two and their fear, pain, longing, guilt and shame is palpable. This installment contains explicit noncon/dubcon sex scenes including sexual abuse, voyeurism, forced exhibitionism and violence.
The story continues in the next part, so there is no HEA (I assume they only find each other at the end of the series).
Kathryn Rosales lives in a world where humans, vampires and shifters coexist, and humans are at the bottom of the social hierarchy. She inherits her mother's heavily indebted family manor and has one week to pay off the debts, otherwise she will be at the mercy of the abusive Collector Braggon and his pack. Desperate, she asks her ex-stepbrother and vampire Sebastian, with whom she has a love-hate relationship, for help. Sebastian agrees to help her and takes over the negotiations with Braggon, but ends up in danger himself. Ultimately, his only option is to bargain her body for her life. Twelve patrons for twelve nights of Christmas with him supervising them...
If you like gritty paranormal romance novellas and emotional rollercoaster rides with likable protagonists and explicit sexual content, including noncon/dubcon dynamics, this book is for you.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
March 20, 2026
Her Forbidden Bargain delivers a dark, provocative reading experience that leans more into intensity and taboo than traditional romance. While it may be marketed within the romance sphere, readers should be prepared for a story that prioritizes darker themes over emotional connection.
The novel opens with protagonist Kathryn grappling with the death of her mother—a point that, while important to her character, feels somewhat overemphasized in the early chapters. The repetition slows the pacing initially and may test the reader’s patience before the plot truly begins to unfold.
Things take a sharp turn once the ex-stepbrother enters the story. This is where the narrative shifts into its darker territory, introducing elements that may be triggering for some readers. From this point on, the tone becomes more intense and unsettling, with the relationship dynamics focusing less on romance and more on power, tension, and taboo intrigue.
The book carries a similar vibe to Hunting Adeline, particularly in its dark appeal and willingness to push boundaries. However, it doesn’t quite reach the same level of emotional or narrative depth. Still, the underlying concept is intriguing and keeps the reader engaged enough to see it through.
One positive note is the lack of a cliffhanger. Despite being the first installment in what appears to be a planned series (possibly inspired by the “12 Nights of Christmas” concept), the story wraps up in a way that feels complete—though it clearly leaves room for continuation. It’s also worth noting that despite this thematic tie-in, the book does not read like a Christmas story.
Overall, Her Forbidden Bargain is a decent entry into the dark romance genre, best suited for readers who enjoy edgy, morally complex narratives. While it has its flaws—particularly in pacing and repetition—it still manages to deliver an engaging, if unconventional, reading experience.
The novel opens with protagonist Kathryn grappling with the death of her mother—a point that, while important to her character, feels somewhat overemphasized in the early chapters. The repetition slows the pacing initially and may test the reader’s patience before the plot truly begins to unfold.
Things take a sharp turn once the ex-stepbrother enters the story. This is where the narrative shifts into its darker territory, introducing elements that may be triggering for some readers. From this point on, the tone becomes more intense and unsettling, with the relationship dynamics focusing less on romance and more on power, tension, and taboo intrigue.
The book carries a similar vibe to Hunting Adeline, particularly in its dark appeal and willingness to push boundaries. However, it doesn’t quite reach the same level of emotional or narrative depth. Still, the underlying concept is intriguing and keeps the reader engaged enough to see it through.
One positive note is the lack of a cliffhanger. Despite being the first installment in what appears to be a planned series (possibly inspired by the “12 Nights of Christmas” concept), the story wraps up in a way that feels complete—though it clearly leaves room for continuation. It’s also worth noting that despite this thematic tie-in, the book does not read like a Christmas story.
Overall, Her Forbidden Bargain is a decent entry into the dark romance genre, best suited for readers who enjoy edgy, morally complex narratives. While it has its flaws—particularly in pacing and repetition—it still manages to deliver an engaging, if unconventional, reading experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
Darcy Fayton’s His Forbidden Bargain is a gritty, high-stakes introduction to a dark paranormal world where the lines of morality are intentionally blurred. The premise—a dark "12 Days of Christmas" exchange to pay off a family debt—is a hauntingly effective hook that sets a grim tone of hopelessness and unease. Sebastian serves as a formidable and often cruel protagonist, a "king of mean" whose twisted deal for Kathryn creates a constant sense of tension that lingers long after the final page.
While the story is exceptionally snappy and to the point, making it a perfect one-sitting read for those seeking high heat with a stable plot, I personally would have welcomed deeper development regarding the magical contract and the family history to fully flesh out the world-building. My rating reflects this desire for more lore, but as a fantasy reader, I still found the narrative addictive and the dual-POV structure deeply immersive.
What sets this novella apart is how it handles the enemies-to-lovers trope; the conflict feels earned and complex rather than shallow, providing a justified dynamic between two broken characters. The spice is dark, restrained, and fits the bleak atmosphere of a world where vampires and shifters prey on the innocent. Even within the more intense themes, there is a surprising amount of nuance, and Sebastian’s character provides a strange sense of respite amidst the chaos. It is a very different kind of read that avoids the typical "novella whiplash" by offering a continuous, evolving story that leads into a compelling cliffhanger. For those looking for a dark, sinful escape that doesn't shy away from "red flag" tropes, this is a strong start to a series that promises to get even more twisted.
Trigger Warnings: Non-con/SA, degradation, shaming, humiliation, and intense taboo themes. (Please check the author's full list before diving in).
While the story is exceptionally snappy and to the point, making it a perfect one-sitting read for those seeking high heat with a stable plot, I personally would have welcomed deeper development regarding the magical contract and the family history to fully flesh out the world-building. My rating reflects this desire for more lore, but as a fantasy reader, I still found the narrative addictive and the dual-POV structure deeply immersive.
What sets this novella apart is how it handles the enemies-to-lovers trope; the conflict feels earned and complex rather than shallow, providing a justified dynamic between two broken characters. The spice is dark, restrained, and fits the bleak atmosphere of a world where vampires and shifters prey on the innocent. Even within the more intense themes, there is a surprising amount of nuance, and Sebastian’s character provides a strange sense of respite amidst the chaos. It is a very different kind of read that avoids the typical "novella whiplash" by offering a continuous, evolving story that leads into a compelling cliffhanger. For those looking for a dark, sinful escape that doesn't shy away from "red flag" tropes, this is a strong start to a series that promises to get even more twisted.
Trigger Warnings: Non-con/SA, degradation, shaming, humiliation, and intense taboo themes. (Please check the author's full list before diving in).
May 31, 2026
His forbidden bargain - Darcy Fayton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
🩸 Vampire MMC x Human FMC
🖤 Step-Siblings
🩸 Age gap (23F / 30M)
🖤 Morally grey hero
🩸 Yearning, angst, & hurt/comfort
🖤 Forced proximity & power imbalance
🩸 Forced sharing
🖤 Spicy🌶️
🩸 Slow-Burn
🖤 Dual POV
🩸 Debt Being Repaid
🖤 Exhibitionism
🩸 Voyeurism
⚠️ Please check the TWs ⚠️
This novella leans HEAVY into mature themes degradation, humiliation, debt, survival, and darker content. I secretly love books with tons of trigger warnings so this book was definitely for me. But if that’s not your cup of tea, just be aware.
His Forbidden Bargain by Darcy Fayton is the first book in The Twelve Nights of Christmas series, and let me tell you this is not your sweet little holiday romance. This is a very dark, twisted paranormal romance full of forbidden tension, gothic vibes, and every filthy little thing I crave in a dark romance. 🩸🖤
Kathryn inherits her family’s manor, but she also inherits a debt she has no means of paying back. If she fails to pay it her life is forfeit. Her only hope is Sebastian, her estranged vampire stepbrother, who she writes to in desperation after discovering the debt.
Sebastian is broody, possessive, emotionally tortured, and clearly drowning in feelings for Kathryn that he has no right having. He makes a bargain to save her life, but you can feel how much it destroys him because underneath it all he just wants HER.
This novella is fast-paced, dark, spicy, packed full of tension, and very much just the beginning of their story. Their HEA is not in this book, it comes later in the series so know going in. I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one. 🖤
I would like to thank Darcy Fayton and BookSirens for the early eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
🩸 Vampire MMC x Human FMC
🖤 Step-Siblings
🩸 Age gap (23F / 30M)
🖤 Morally grey hero
🩸 Yearning, angst, & hurt/comfort
🖤 Forced proximity & power imbalance
🩸 Forced sharing
🖤 Spicy🌶️
🩸 Slow-Burn
🖤 Dual POV
🩸 Debt Being Repaid
🖤 Exhibitionism
🩸 Voyeurism
⚠️ Please check the TWs ⚠️
This novella leans HEAVY into mature themes degradation, humiliation, debt, survival, and darker content. I secretly love books with tons of trigger warnings so this book was definitely for me. But if that’s not your cup of tea, just be aware.
His Forbidden Bargain by Darcy Fayton is the first book in The Twelve Nights of Christmas series, and let me tell you this is not your sweet little holiday romance. This is a very dark, twisted paranormal romance full of forbidden tension, gothic vibes, and every filthy little thing I crave in a dark romance. 🩸🖤
Kathryn inherits her family’s manor, but she also inherits a debt she has no means of paying back. If she fails to pay it her life is forfeit. Her only hope is Sebastian, her estranged vampire stepbrother, who she writes to in desperation after discovering the debt.
Sebastian is broody, possessive, emotionally tortured, and clearly drowning in feelings for Kathryn that he has no right having. He makes a bargain to save her life, but you can feel how much it destroys him because underneath it all he just wants HER.
This novella is fast-paced, dark, spicy, packed full of tension, and very much just the beginning of their story. Their HEA is not in this book, it comes later in the series so know going in. I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one. 🖤
I would like to thank Darcy Fayton and BookSirens for the early eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
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 27, 2026
✨️🖤🧛♂️ His Forbidden Romance 🐺🖤 - ARC REVIEW✨️
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:
- Slow-burn❤️🔥
- Voyeur👀
- Human FMC / Vampire MMC🩸
- Pitch-black / Dark Romance🖤
- Paranormal / Shifter🦇🐺
- Dual POV👥️
- Damsel-In-Distress🏰
⚠️PLEASE read through the trigger warnings - this novella is heavy and contains graphic material / dark themes⚠️
His Forbidden Bargain was my first taboo dark romance, and I think it was great that it was a novella. Don't get me wrong, I have no triggers (up this point) but you do still sense the gravity of the content🖤 While enjoyable, it definitely has a heavy tone. So, dipping my toes in with a novella was perfect!✨️
📚This is the first in a 12 book series. I received this eARC copy through BookSirens - of course, a special thank you to the author herself, Darcy Fayton!💗
Given this is a novella, the storyline goes pretty fast. Not a lot of world-building, but you do get some. I was impressed with the amount of background you get on the main characters considering the pace of the story! You understand the kind of relationships they have with their parents and with each other (they are step-siblings), and they are COMPLICATED.
Sebastian is basically auctioning off his step-sister, Kathryn, to repay a debt💰; but both of their lives are on the line. The method? A twisted take on the 12 days of Christmas🎄 12 nights. 12 patrons.
Orchestrated by her brother and the heartless collector🫱🏻🫲🏽 But this tugs at both Kathryn and Sebastian for more than one reason❤️🔥👀
❌️No HEA❌️ but remember, this is a lengthy series so we'll probably get more within the other stories😉
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:
- Slow-burn❤️🔥
- Voyeur👀
- Human FMC / Vampire MMC🩸
- Pitch-black / Dark Romance🖤
- Paranormal / Shifter🦇🐺
- Dual POV👥️
- Damsel-In-Distress🏰
⚠️PLEASE read through the trigger warnings - this novella is heavy and contains graphic material / dark themes⚠️
His Forbidden Bargain was my first taboo dark romance, and I think it was great that it was a novella. Don't get me wrong, I have no triggers (up this point) but you do still sense the gravity of the content🖤 While enjoyable, it definitely has a heavy tone. So, dipping my toes in with a novella was perfect!✨️
📚This is the first in a 12 book series. I received this eARC copy through BookSirens - of course, a special thank you to the author herself, Darcy Fayton!💗
Given this is a novella, the storyline goes pretty fast. Not a lot of world-building, but you do get some. I was impressed with the amount of background you get on the main characters considering the pace of the story! You understand the kind of relationships they have with their parents and with each other (they are step-siblings), and they are COMPLICATED.
Sebastian is basically auctioning off his step-sister, Kathryn, to repay a debt💰; but both of their lives are on the line. The method? A twisted take on the 12 days of Christmas🎄 12 nights. 12 patrons.
Orchestrated by her brother and the heartless collector🫱🏻🫲🏽 But this tugs at both Kathryn and Sebastian for more than one reason❤️🔥👀
❌️No HEA❌️ but remember, this is a lengthy series so we'll probably get more within the other stories😉
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 18, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning: This book contains explicit sexual violence, non-consensual scenes, and graphic dark themes. It is strictly 18+ and not for the faint-hearted. The author is transparent about this from the very first pages, and the warnings should be taken seriously.
I like dark romance. I knew exactly what I was walking into and Darcy Fayton still managed to make me uncomfortable in the best and worst ways possible.
This is essentially Christmas horror with a forbidden love story simmering underneath it all. Kathryn is trapped, broke, grieving, and completely alone; a mere human in a world that doesn't think much of humans. Her only option is to write to Sebastian, her vampire stepbrother, the man who broke her years ago and never looked back. He shows up. He tries to help. And somehow makes everything worse with the best possible intentions.
Sebastian is not cruel. He's weak. And in this world, weakness costs the people you love far more than cruelty ever could.
Kathryn on the other hand is a fighter. She has no fangs, no supernatural strength, no money and no allies. Just sheer stubborn will and it's enough to make you root for her.
Braggon is the kind of villain you actively wish a horrible death upon. That's all I'll say about that.
The book is short, but it pulls you in completely. By the last page, with eleven nights still ahead of her, I wasn't ready to stop. The emotional tension between Kathryn and Sebastian is real and painful and complicated and that's exactly what carries a twelve-part dark romance series.
Not easy to read, but absolutely worth it if dark romance is your genre.
Content Warning: This book contains explicit sexual violence, non-consensual scenes, and graphic dark themes. It is strictly 18+ and not for the faint-hearted. The author is transparent about this from the very first pages, and the warnings should be taken seriously.
I like dark romance. I knew exactly what I was walking into and Darcy Fayton still managed to make me uncomfortable in the best and worst ways possible.
This is essentially Christmas horror with a forbidden love story simmering underneath it all. Kathryn is trapped, broke, grieving, and completely alone; a mere human in a world that doesn't think much of humans. Her only option is to write to Sebastian, her vampire stepbrother, the man who broke her years ago and never looked back. He shows up. He tries to help. And somehow makes everything worse with the best possible intentions.
Sebastian is not cruel. He's weak. And in this world, weakness costs the people you love far more than cruelty ever could.
Kathryn on the other hand is a fighter. She has no fangs, no supernatural strength, no money and no allies. Just sheer stubborn will and it's enough to make you root for her.
Braggon is the kind of villain you actively wish a horrible death upon. That's all I'll say about that.
The book is short, but it pulls you in completely. By the last page, with eleven nights still ahead of her, I wasn't ready to stop. The emotional tension between Kathryn and Sebastian is real and painful and complicated and that's exactly what carries a twelve-part dark romance series.
Not easy to read, but absolutely worth it if dark romance is your genre.
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