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Please: A Dark Psychological Romance
PLEASE
A Blackmere Novel
Westley does not experience the world the way other people do.
He understands patterns. Cause and effect. Rules. What keeps a system intact—and what breaks it.
Van understands power.
When their lives intersect, it isn’t accidental, and it isn’t gentle. What begins as control becomes dependency. What feels like protection blurs into possession. And what Westley believes is structure slowly reveals itself as something far more dangerous.
Van is not a savior. He is not safe. He does not promise kindness. What he offers instead is certainty—clear boundaries, clear consequences, and a world where Westley no longer has to guess what is expected of him.
But control has a cost.
As violence closes in and loyalties fracture, Westley is forced to confront the difference between obedience and choice, between attachment and survival. Loving Van may give him purpose. It may also destroy what little autonomy he has left.
This is not a romance built on healing.
This is a story about power, consent, trauma, and the thin line between care and control.
Please is a dark, psychologically intense novel intended for mature readers. It contains explicit content, violence, coercive dynamics, and themes that may be disturbing.
A Blackmere Novel
Westley does not experience the world the way other people do.
He understands patterns. Cause and effect. Rules. What keeps a system intact—and what breaks it.
Van understands power.
When their lives intersect, it isn’t accidental, and it isn’t gentle. What begins as control becomes dependency. What feels like protection blurs into possession. And what Westley believes is structure slowly reveals itself as something far more dangerous.
Van is not a savior. He is not safe. He does not promise kindness. What he offers instead is certainty—clear boundaries, clear consequences, and a world where Westley no longer has to guess what is expected of him.
But control has a cost.
As violence closes in and loyalties fracture, Westley is forced to confront the difference between obedience and choice, between attachment and survival. Loving Van may give him purpose. It may also destroy what little autonomy he has left.
This is not a romance built on healing.
This is a story about power, consent, trauma, and the thin line between care and control.
Please is a dark, psychologically intense novel intended for mature readers. It contains explicit content, violence, coercive dynamics, and themes that may be disturbing.
- GenresM M RomanceDark Romance
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2026
16 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 5, 2026
“I love when you say please.”
The first hour or so after the last page I have mostly been staring at the wall.
I wanted time to process before writing a review.
But I don’t see my processing succeeding any time soon 🫠 and I need to say this:
nothing in the blurb, in the reviews or probably even in your previous reading experience will prepare you for what this book does.
And that’s exactly why it’s difficult to review - it’s best to go in blind.
This is not simply a “dark romance”, this term has been used really inadequately recently.
It is dark in its purest psychological sense, it’s heavy, unsettling, emotionally invasive. Not aesthetically dark, not the ridiculous college-mafia theatrics. This is something far more intimate and far more disturbing.
The intensity begins immediately, there’s no gentle introduction, no easing into the story. It is a chokehold from the first chapter and it never loosens. There are no calm stretches or emotional reprieve. Every chapter only deepens the tension, it's like a never-ending cliffhanger 🤯
I felt overwhelmed for most of it. Confused, intrigued, uncomfortable, hot and disturbed with it and completely unable to stop. I was questioning my conscience, morals and sanity.
But above all, I was fascinated
West is, without exaggeration, one of the most compelling and psychologically intricate characters I can ever remember reading. And the way his reactions, thoughts, and motivations are unpacked is meticulous. It’s like you don’t just observe him, you are forced inside his head, examining and questioning everything.
And then there’s the dynamic between Van and West.
It defies everything we’re used to in romance, no familiar beats or arcs. Even when they try to frame what they feel in “normal” terms, the relationship itself is nothing safe or conventional. Up to the very last page.
You will hate some people in this book so much.
Then you will have your hate thrown in your face in the most unexpected ways, more than once.
Your heart will be breaking constantly for West, for Van and for the people you don’t even see coming.
This story is painful, relentless and emotionally exhausting.
And it is brilliantly executed.
It’s rare to encounter something that feels genuinely new, not just darker or more shocking, but structurally and psychologically different. This felt new in the best way.
It’s easily one of the most powerful books I’ve read recently.
I hope so much there will be another book in the series. We need to know the… other man’s story after that heartbreak I still can’t move on from 💔
The first hour or so after the last page I have mostly been staring at the wall.
I wanted time to process before writing a review.
But I don’t see my processing succeeding any time soon 🫠 and I need to say this:
nothing in the blurb, in the reviews or probably even in your previous reading experience will prepare you for what this book does.
And that’s exactly why it’s difficult to review - it’s best to go in blind.
This is not simply a “dark romance”, this term has been used really inadequately recently.
It is dark in its purest psychological sense, it’s heavy, unsettling, emotionally invasive. Not aesthetically dark, not the ridiculous college-mafia theatrics. This is something far more intimate and far more disturbing.
The intensity begins immediately, there’s no gentle introduction, no easing into the story. It is a chokehold from the first chapter and it never loosens. There are no calm stretches or emotional reprieve. Every chapter only deepens the tension, it's like a never-ending cliffhanger 🤯
I felt overwhelmed for most of it. Confused, intrigued, uncomfortable, hot and disturbed with it and completely unable to stop. I was questioning my conscience, morals and sanity.
But above all, I was fascinated
West is, without exaggeration, one of the most compelling and psychologically intricate characters I can ever remember reading. And the way his reactions, thoughts, and motivations are unpacked is meticulous. It’s like you don’t just observe him, you are forced inside his head, examining and questioning everything.
And then there’s the dynamic between Van and West.
It defies everything we’re used to in romance, no familiar beats or arcs. Even when they try to frame what they feel in “normal” terms, the relationship itself is nothing safe or conventional. Up to the very last page.
You will hate some people in this book so much.
Then you will have your hate thrown in your face in the most unexpected ways, more than once.
Your heart will be breaking constantly for West, for Van and for the people you don’t even see coming.
This story is painful, relentless and emotionally exhausting.
And it is brilliantly executed.
It’s rare to encounter something that feels genuinely new, not just darker or more shocking, but structurally and psychologically different. This felt new in the best way.
It’s easily one of the most powerful books I’ve read recently.
I hope so much there will be another book in the series. We need to know the… other man’s story after that heartbreak I still can’t move on from 💔
March 5, 2026
Please: A Dark Psychological Romance by Ardis Thorne is an intense story of pain and love. Please read the trigger warnings as this book is not for the faint of heart. The characters are well written and the story contains twists and turns the reader does not anticipate. The author does an exceptional job of writing why the characters are the way they are within the story itself. They are exquisitely simple yet complicated individuals. This is so much more than a "bad" love story with Stockholm. It keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. You will experience many emotions throughout the story. If you like that genre, this is a must read.
March 19, 2026
Wow. I can truly say I am speechless after reading this. A new to me author I found myself looking to see what else she wrote as this was fantastic.
I have been reviewing books for many years and I’ll tell you now this is one that will stay with me for a long time.
Van and Westley have pulled me through the wringer with their story. It’s brutal, it’s raw. Unpredictable as I found I couldn’t guess what way this was going to go.
If you like mm with plenty of triggers then I’ll definitely recommend this brilliant read to you.
I have been reviewing books for many years and I’ll tell you now this is one that will stay with me for a long time.
Van and Westley have pulled me through the wringer with their story. It’s brutal, it’s raw. Unpredictable as I found I couldn’t guess what way this was going to go.
If you like mm with plenty of triggers then I’ll definitely recommend this brilliant read to you.
May 1, 2026
I’ve never heard of this author. So its a baby author in my option.
Where the book was in the beginning strong I did lose intrest at some point. I didn’t dnf the book. Because that’s just not who I am.
Will I read more books of this author yes. Would I recommend this book maybe if you just start reading dark romance. Or when you love psychological Romance. But I would not recommend it to a average reader like me who devours books like candy.
I did love the book that’s why it got 4 stars instead of 3!
Where the book was in the beginning strong I did lose intrest at some point. I didn’t dnf the book. Because that’s just not who I am.
Will I read more books of this author yes. Would I recommend this book maybe if you just start reading dark romance. Or when you love psychological Romance. But I would not recommend it to a average reader like me who devours books like candy.
I did love the book that’s why it got 4 stars instead of 3!
April 2, 2026
I was so excited to read this, but by 40% I was pretty much convinced it was either completely written by AI or heavily edited by AI. Phrases and words were continuously used (such as 'fractured' and 'recalibrated') which oftentimes made no sense. The way the writing was done, very much a formula, was also a big indicator. There was also no research done into the location. I even asked a friend of mine who lives in England and she agreed that the author didn't do any research to what it's like to live in the UK.
April 22, 2026
Great Book
Not your typical Dark Romance book. I think that is what draws you in. Makes you want to keep reading. You need to know what is going to happen next.
Not your typical Dark Romance book. I think that is what draws you in. Makes you want to keep reading. You need to know what is going to happen next.
February 27, 2026
Wow. I honestly don’t really know what to write, say, or even think. I finished this book in one day, but I’m still processing everything. It has been sitting with me for days now, which makes it surprisingly hard to put this review into words. But let’s start at the beginning.
The blurb immediately grabbed me. It was cryptic, but it hit something in me and I knew I had to read it. That same feeling continued in the content note. I do want to strongly emphasize that this book is truly dark and absolutely not for everyone. Take the trigger list seriously. As the content note says: “This book contains cruelty, not the dramatic kind. The useful kind.” And cruel it was. This is not morally grey. This is pitch black.
From the very first page, the prologue is brutal. Actually, everything in this book is on page. Nothing is softened or hidden. That makes it uncomfortable at times, but also incredibly powerful. It feels raw and realistic.
I don’t want to spoil too much, because the suspense in this book is on another level. Almost every chapter ends on a cliffhanger. I simply could not stop reading. I even showed up slightly late to work because I needed just one more chapter. The author keeps the tension high by making the characters unpredictable. Even near the end, I kept wondering, is this going to be okay? What is he going to do now?
Evander, or Van, comes across as a powerful and dominant character. What I found especially clever is how his strength is often most visible through West’s perspective. And the same happens the other way around. You see West’s qualities so clearly in Van’s chapters. The author has very clearly done her research on emotional detachment and mental struggles, which makes everything feel disturbingly real.
I have to admit, I spent a large part of this book genuinely disliking Van. That slowly shifted into something much more complicated, almost affectionate, and that is such an impressive piece of writing. I’ve never experienced that kind of emotional shift toward a character before.
Reading about West’s mental struggles was heavy. There were many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug him. I often had a lump in my throat. Especially when his thoughts try to analyse and categorize the, for him, unknow emotions, “I think it’s fear. I hope it’s fear.” Lines like those stuck with me. The moments where he begged, clearly stated his boundaries, and was still pushed were difficult to read. Even if the outcome served a purpose, it was intense.
And then… the ropes. Goodness gracious. My heart.
I also really loved the relationship between Alex and West. It felt natural and sweet in the midst of all the darkness. You can clearly see how much Alex cares about his brother and how far he’s willing to go to protect and help him. And the other way around ofcourse (I mean, the first chapters..)
I sincerely hope Alex gets his own book (Author, if you’re reading this, please...?)
The plot twist after plot twist kept me on edge, and I genuinely did not see the ending coming. This book demanded to be finished in one day, and I completely surrendered to it. I would absolutely reread it, and I am very eager to read more from this author.
Ratings
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 (because I can't let go in my mind)
After writing this review and realizing I’ve been thinking about this story for three days straight, slightly shaken and emotionally flipped upside down, I can confidently say this is a five star read for me. Books that stay with you like this are rare. And this one definitely did.
The blurb immediately grabbed me. It was cryptic, but it hit something in me and I knew I had to read it. That same feeling continued in the content note. I do want to strongly emphasize that this book is truly dark and absolutely not for everyone. Take the trigger list seriously. As the content note says: “This book contains cruelty, not the dramatic kind. The useful kind.” And cruel it was. This is not morally grey. This is pitch black.
From the very first page, the prologue is brutal. Actually, everything in this book is on page. Nothing is softened or hidden. That makes it uncomfortable at times, but also incredibly powerful. It feels raw and realistic.
I don’t want to spoil too much, because the suspense in this book is on another level. Almost every chapter ends on a cliffhanger. I simply could not stop reading. I even showed up slightly late to work because I needed just one more chapter. The author keeps the tension high by making the characters unpredictable. Even near the end, I kept wondering, is this going to be okay? What is he going to do now?
Evander, or Van, comes across as a powerful and dominant character. What I found especially clever is how his strength is often most visible through West’s perspective. And the same happens the other way around. You see West’s qualities so clearly in Van’s chapters. The author has very clearly done her research on emotional detachment and mental struggles, which makes everything feel disturbingly real.
I have to admit, I spent a large part of this book genuinely disliking Van. That slowly shifted into something much more complicated, almost affectionate, and that is such an impressive piece of writing. I’ve never experienced that kind of emotional shift toward a character before.
Reading about West’s mental struggles was heavy. There were many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug him. I often had a lump in my throat. Especially when his thoughts try to analyse and categorize the, for him, unknow emotions, “I think it’s fear. I hope it’s fear.” Lines like those stuck with me. The moments where he begged, clearly stated his boundaries, and was still pushed were difficult to read. Even if the outcome served a purpose, it was intense.
And then… the ropes. Goodness gracious. My heart.
I also really loved the relationship between Alex and West. It felt natural and sweet in the midst of all the darkness. You can clearly see how much Alex cares about his brother and how far he’s willing to go to protect and help him. And the other way around ofcourse (I mean, the first chapters..)
I sincerely hope Alex gets his own book (Author, if you’re reading this, please...?)
The plot twist after plot twist kept me on edge, and I genuinely did not see the ending coming. This book demanded to be finished in one day, and I completely surrendered to it. I would absolutely reread it, and I am very eager to read more from this author.
Ratings
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 (because I can't let go in my mind)
After writing this review and realizing I’ve been thinking about this story for three days straight, slightly shaken and emotionally flipped upside down, I can confidently say this is a five star read for me. Books that stay with you like this are rare. And this one definitely did.
April 1, 2026
Well, after letting a couple of days pass for my feelings about this book to settle, I think I'm safe to say that this book deserves much more than 5 stars!!
Let's start with the most important thing. Please isn't your typical "dark romance." It's a raw, intense, and deeply disturbing story that grabs you from the first chapter and doesn't let you breathe until the end.
Please, please, please read the warnings!! This book is truly dark and will emotionally devastate you, for real, not like those books that are advertised as such and then turn out to be just meh!
The author builds constant tension that feels like you're suffocating, and even knowing it's because of the story, you can't stop reading.
West, my sweet little West! I want to wrap you in bubble wrap and protect you from all harm forever and ever, amen! Watching him try to understand emotions that are unknown to him is devastating and beautiful at the same time. Van, on the other hand, makes you want to slap him until you can't feel it anymore throughout almost the entire book. You can hate him, desire him, fear him, and feel compassion for him in a matter of pages. The dynamic between them is twisted, intense, completely fascinating, and terrifying at times.
The spice was spicy!! 🌶️🌶️ It's explicit and sometimes difficult to read, but never gratuitous; it's part of the story. And the twists… simply *CHEF KISS*!! The author maintains the unpredictability until the very end.
The secondary characters also stand out, especially Alex, whose relationship with West brings a ray of humanity amidst so much darkness.
This book is trauma, loneliness, pain, love, acceptance, spice, tension, unexpected twists, and brilliant execution. It's emotionally exhausting, but also surprisingly powerful. It's not for sensitive readers, but if you enjoy truly dark psychological romance, the kind that really shakes you to your core, this book is an unforgettable experience.
It was the first book I read by this author, and God knows it won't be the last.
This was an ARC but my thoughts are mine and only mine!
Let's start with the most important thing. Please isn't your typical "dark romance." It's a raw, intense, and deeply disturbing story that grabs you from the first chapter and doesn't let you breathe until the end.
Please, please, please read the warnings!! This book is truly dark and will emotionally devastate you, for real, not like those books that are advertised as such and then turn out to be just meh!
The author builds constant tension that feels like you're suffocating, and even knowing it's because of the story, you can't stop reading.
West, my sweet little West! I want to wrap you in bubble wrap and protect you from all harm forever and ever, amen! Watching him try to understand emotions that are unknown to him is devastating and beautiful at the same time. Van, on the other hand, makes you want to slap him until you can't feel it anymore throughout almost the entire book. You can hate him, desire him, fear him, and feel compassion for him in a matter of pages. The dynamic between them is twisted, intense, completely fascinating, and terrifying at times.
The spice was spicy!! 🌶️🌶️ It's explicit and sometimes difficult to read, but never gratuitous; it's part of the story. And the twists… simply *CHEF KISS*!! The author maintains the unpredictability until the very end.
The secondary characters also stand out, especially Alex, whose relationship with West brings a ray of humanity amidst so much darkness.
This book is trauma, loneliness, pain, love, acceptance, spice, tension, unexpected twists, and brilliant execution. It's emotionally exhausting, but also surprisingly powerful. It's not for sensitive readers, but if you enjoy truly dark psychological romance, the kind that really shakes you to your core, this book is an unforgettable experience.
It was the first book I read by this author, and God knows it won't be the last.
This was an ARC but my thoughts are mine and only mine!
March 14, 2026
4.5*
Arc read
I found this review hard to put into words as this book to me isn't a true dark psychological romance although there is a romantic relationship at it's core, the course to get there is cruel, violent and far from loving.
This book is dark edges and twists that you don't see coming with actions that question everything. All of the characters have a complex personality and no one character is simple with a clear good and bad moral compass.
Ultimately this is the story of Van and West's relationship which started off the worst way possible. Van is harsh, cruel, loyal, dominant, ruthless, he is in charge of a large organisation and is out for revenge. West is quiet but has a hidden weapon which is hidden behind layers of control and a lack of emotions which he has grown up with the help of his twin brother. He relies on rules, patterns and routines.
Van meets West when he goes after Alex but he doesn't find out it's fine wrong brother until it's too late and then he goes from a plan to use him to get to Alex to trying to figure him out.
This story takes you on a whirlwind of harsh "conditioning and correction", violence, sex, love, loyalty being tested, fighting for power, pushing boundaries and control to bring you out to the end where you find out what ultimately happens to van and west.
Van never softens totally and West doesn't lose his need for routines and doesn't immediately understand emotions fully but the book does show them growing together to make a relationship possible.
I think this is a book I'll think about for a while but I do recommend you checking triggers before reading this book.
Arc read
I found this review hard to put into words as this book to me isn't a true dark psychological romance although there is a romantic relationship at it's core, the course to get there is cruel, violent and far from loving.
This book is dark edges and twists that you don't see coming with actions that question everything. All of the characters have a complex personality and no one character is simple with a clear good and bad moral compass.
Ultimately this is the story of Van and West's relationship which started off the worst way possible. Van is harsh, cruel, loyal, dominant, ruthless, he is in charge of a large organisation and is out for revenge. West is quiet but has a hidden weapon which is hidden behind layers of control and a lack of emotions which he has grown up with the help of his twin brother. He relies on rules, patterns and routines.
Van meets West when he goes after Alex but he doesn't find out it's fine wrong brother until it's too late and then he goes from a plan to use him to get to Alex to trying to figure him out.
This story takes you on a whirlwind of harsh "conditioning and correction", violence, sex, love, loyalty being tested, fighting for power, pushing boundaries and control to bring you out to the end where you find out what ultimately happens to van and west.
Van never softens totally and West doesn't lose his need for routines and doesn't immediately understand emotions fully but the book does show them growing together to make a relationship possible.
I think this is a book I'll think about for a while but I do recommend you checking triggers before reading this book.
Read
March 9, 2026How one little word, “please”, can completely unravel a man that eats, breathes, and thrives on complete control.
Enter Westley. A man that has no clue what emotions feel like, what they are, how to explain them. They are confusing, unrecognizable Yet Evander wants to not only control Westley but also understand him, help him open up, use his words, feel emotions. Easier said than done. Especially for someone who is mostly non verbal, thrives on structure, routines, and his Brother Alex.
Evander will stop at nothing to keep domination, fear, and control over Westley. Punishments are inevitable. Lots of punishments. Forced, no choice. What started as hate, rage, and revenge has shifted. Into something unexpected, possession.
This story is heavy, very heavy. Filled with lots of emotions and pain. And spice, dark and forced. If you are not into dark romance, this is definitely not for you! I myself had to take breaks and put the story down. It was painful and gut wrenching. It grabs ahold of your heart from the very beginning to the very end and never lets go. No room for softness here. I’m looking forward to book 2! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Evander and Westley and the future of their relationship. Will it change? Stay the same? Will their demeanors continue to slowly shift?
Before proceeding PLEASE check your trigger warnings! There are many so proceed with caution. Even though this was a tough one for me I still loved it and am glad I read it. Buckle up, you’re in for a wild deliciously dark ride!
Enter Westley. A man that has no clue what emotions feel like, what they are, how to explain them. They are confusing, unrecognizable Yet Evander wants to not only control Westley but also understand him, help him open up, use his words, feel emotions. Easier said than done. Especially for someone who is mostly non verbal, thrives on structure, routines, and his Brother Alex.
Evander will stop at nothing to keep domination, fear, and control over Westley. Punishments are inevitable. Lots of punishments. Forced, no choice. What started as hate, rage, and revenge has shifted. Into something unexpected, possession.
This story is heavy, very heavy. Filled with lots of emotions and pain. And spice, dark and forced. If you are not into dark romance, this is definitely not for you! I myself had to take breaks and put the story down. It was painful and gut wrenching. It grabs ahold of your heart from the very beginning to the very end and never lets go. No room for softness here. I’m looking forward to book 2! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Evander and Westley and the future of their relationship. Will it change? Stay the same? Will their demeanors continue to slowly shift?
Before proceeding PLEASE check your trigger warnings! There are many so proceed with caution. Even though this was a tough one for me I still loved it and am glad I read it. Buckle up, you’re in for a wild deliciously dark ride!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2026
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 4.5/5 🌶️
Romance: 4.5/5 🥀
Suspense: 5/5 🔥
First off...check your triggers. This book is very Dark and unforgiving.
Second:
“It’s Thursday,” he says quickly, almost challengingly. “Thursday is cereal.”
*Whistles* I'm in a love-hate relationship with this book...
West is such a cutie and he's just precious. My heart really went out to him and I wanted to hug him throughout the whole book. I wanted to baby him and spoil him.
And Van....I was on the verge of hating Van for a good portion of the beginning of the book, but then that twist...
Ugh. I went form wanting to hate Van to actually falling in lvoe with his character. He's not morally grey. He's morally Black. He's unapologetic. He takes what he wants. And he does not care one bit.
The dynamic between West and Van was very interesting to witness. Watching their relationship evolve and slowly grow was something I did not realize that I needed...
And the plot twist...
And Greg....
Ma'am you had my crying at work...
I need a physical copy like yesterday...
This book is severally slept on...
The chracter development is just *chef kiss*. The Plot is very well thought out and leaves you on the edge of your seat. I did not want to put this book down. And just as I thought I understood what was going on...another twist was thrown in.
If you stumble across this book...please...pick it up and read it...
Spice: 4.5/5 🌶️
Romance: 4.5/5 🥀
Suspense: 5/5 🔥
First off...check your triggers. This book is very Dark and unforgiving.
Second:
“It’s Thursday,” he says quickly, almost challengingly. “Thursday is cereal.”
*Whistles* I'm in a love-hate relationship with this book...
West is such a cutie and he's just precious. My heart really went out to him and I wanted to hug him throughout the whole book. I wanted to baby him and spoil him.
And Van....I was on the verge of hating Van for a good portion of the beginning of the book, but then that twist...
Ugh. I went form wanting to hate Van to actually falling in lvoe with his character. He's not morally grey. He's morally Black. He's unapologetic. He takes what he wants. And he does not care one bit.
The dynamic between West and Van was very interesting to witness. Watching their relationship evolve and slowly grow was something I did not realize that I needed...
And the plot twist...
And Greg....
Ma'am you had my crying at work...
I need a physical copy like yesterday...
This book is severally slept on...
The chracter development is just *chef kiss*. The Plot is very well thought out and leaves you on the edge of your seat. I did not want to put this book down. And just as I thought I understood what was going on...another twist was thrown in.
If you stumble across this book...please...pick it up and read it...
March 27, 2026
Please. Never has a book been more aptly titled.
After his sister was raped and killed, Van goes after the man responsible to exact his revenge. The plan- to do to him exactly what had been done to his sister. The only problem is, the man has a neurodivergent identical twin brother...
Westley doesn't see the world like normal people, he thinks differently, he reacts differently and every decision is carefully calculated. His neurodiversity gives him a sense of innocence, despite him being 21 years old, and at times, when he says please, he can feel like a puppy.
In comparison, Van is not a gentle person and often feels too harsh. I started this book with all sorts of conflicting emotions about the two together but the relationship grew well.
This book had some good spice, especially at the beginning, which included a lot of handcuffs, rope and edging. I always love a good I catch you, I fuck you in a book too.
It wasn't just the spice I liked though. I also loved Westley, and I found his POV fascinating. I enjoyed the story and there were some twists too that I just didn't anticipate.
The only downfall for me was the cave. I can't go into detail because I wouldn't want to spoil anything, but it just didn't fit.
Overall, this book gets a yes from me. I spent most of the book drawn in and really enjoyed it!
Please remember, this is a Dark MM romance and you should check the trigger warnings.
After his sister was raped and killed, Van goes after the man responsible to exact his revenge. The plan- to do to him exactly what had been done to his sister. The only problem is, the man has a neurodivergent identical twin brother...
Westley doesn't see the world like normal people, he thinks differently, he reacts differently and every decision is carefully calculated. His neurodiversity gives him a sense of innocence, despite him being 21 years old, and at times, when he says please, he can feel like a puppy.
In comparison, Van is not a gentle person and often feels too harsh. I started this book with all sorts of conflicting emotions about the two together but the relationship grew well.
This book had some good spice, especially at the beginning, which included a lot of handcuffs, rope and edging. I always love a good I catch you, I fuck you in a book too.
It wasn't just the spice I liked though. I also loved Westley, and I found his POV fascinating. I enjoyed the story and there were some twists too that I just didn't anticipate.
The only downfall for me was the cave. I can't go into detail because I wouldn't want to spoil anything, but it just didn't fit.
Overall, this book gets a yes from me. I spent most of the book drawn in and really enjoyed it!
Please remember, this is a Dark MM romance and you should check the trigger warnings.
March 3, 2026
I have been struggling to come up with the best way to write this review. Most of the ways that I have tried makes it sound like I didn't like the book and it the exact opposite. I just didn't like one of the characters about 70% of the time but the other 30% I thought he was the nicest guy ever.
It's not a light read and there is a good amount of SA and DV between the main characters.
Something really really bad happens to Van's sister at the start of the book and that is were the story begins. Our story then continues with a case of mistaken identity.
West is neurodivergent everything has to have a place in his mind for him to understand and in order to protect his brother from Van he takes what he is dishing out. Which to be honest you really need to check the triggers before reading.
Despite everything the boys form a bond but it's not exactly a healthy bond. Most of what Van does to West I was okay with I understood why he was doing it but at one point they are fighting because West had the balls to tell Van no and even knowing what Van was like his reaction did annoy me to the point that I want to climb into my kindle and slap him into next week. But then I suppose that was the reaction that the author was probably looking to get out of the readers.
It's not a light read and there is a good amount of SA and DV between the main characters.
Something really really bad happens to Van's sister at the start of the book and that is were the story begins. Our story then continues with a case of mistaken identity.
West is neurodivergent everything has to have a place in his mind for him to understand and in order to protect his brother from Van he takes what he is dishing out. Which to be honest you really need to check the triggers before reading.
Despite everything the boys form a bond but it's not exactly a healthy bond. Most of what Van does to West I was okay with I understood why he was doing it but at one point they are fighting because West had the balls to tell Van no and even knowing what Van was like his reaction did annoy me to the point that I want to climb into my kindle and slap him into next week. But then I suppose that was the reaction that the author was probably looking to get out of the readers.
March 23, 2026
If this book isn’t on your tbr, you’ll need to add it, set a reminder for the release date and have the time to read it all, because if you love it, you want be able to put it down. Please read the trigger warnings, there is a lot of non consents….
This is why I absolutely love being a arc-reader! I get to read some amazing books and recommend it to others. -please have in mind, that I’m danish and my grammar isn’t good or perfect, but I do believe you’ll understand what I mean.
West is a young man with a different mindset than most people. He thinks in patterns, boxes, he calculate and predict everything. When he is captured by Van, he isn’t afraid or confused, because he doesn’t understand what’s going on. He’s trying his hardest to read Van, trying to figure out what he wants.
Van uses forced orgasmes, handcuffs, ropes etc in his attempts to learn to know how West’ mind works.
It’s dark, hard, rough!
Happy reading, fellow readers ❤️ I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
This is why I absolutely love being a arc-reader! I get to read some amazing books and recommend it to others. -please have in mind, that I’m danish and my grammar isn’t good or perfect, but I do believe you’ll understand what I mean.
West is a young man with a different mindset than most people. He thinks in patterns, boxes, he calculate and predict everything. When he is captured by Van, he isn’t afraid or confused, because he doesn’t understand what’s going on. He’s trying his hardest to read Van, trying to figure out what he wants.
Van uses forced orgasmes, handcuffs, ropes etc in his attempts to learn to know how West’ mind works.
It’s dark, hard, rough!
Happy reading, fellow readers ❤️ I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
April 6, 2026
Some rules are made to be broken.
I feel into instabook love with West. I even took notes and tried to diagnose him on my own. Let's just say I am not a diagnostician, although I was pretty proud of some of the things I came up with.
Van is the boss in all aspects of his life, and his height and muscular frame may or may not play a role in him maintaining that role. Even through the dark themes of this book (some I may or may not have liked) the evolvement of West and Van's story was beautiful, in its own way.
Then there is Alex, West's twin. I'm going to leave it at that and let you find out for yourself how that role played an intricate part of the book.
I'm still debating if I need a c-collar for the whiplash Ardis threw at me, and again read and find out yourself, maybe we can be each other emotional support buddies.
Oh and Ardis, thanks, now I'm craving pizza and everything is closed 😫.
💥Mark your calendars Stay book 2 of the Blackmere series comes out May 1, 2026 💥
This is a dark romance book, please check any trigger warnings before you read!
I feel into instabook love with West. I even took notes and tried to diagnose him on my own. Let's just say I am not a diagnostician, although I was pretty proud of some of the things I came up with.
Van is the boss in all aspects of his life, and his height and muscular frame may or may not play a role in him maintaining that role. Even through the dark themes of this book (some I may or may not have liked) the evolvement of West and Van's story was beautiful, in its own way.
Then there is Alex, West's twin. I'm going to leave it at that and let you find out for yourself how that role played an intricate part of the book.
I'm still debating if I need a c-collar for the whiplash Ardis threw at me, and again read and find out yourself, maybe we can be each other emotional support buddies.
Oh and Ardis, thanks, now I'm craving pizza and everything is closed 😫.
💥Mark your calendars Stay book 2 of the Blackmere series comes out May 1, 2026 💥
This is a dark romance book, please check any trigger warnings before you read!
April 7, 2026
This was an ARC read, and I honestly enjoyed it. The plot and overall storyline were strong, and the tension between West and Van kept me hooked the entire time. Their dynamic? Confusing, intense, and honestly a little unsettling I couldn’t fully figure them out, and maybe that’s exactly the point.
I struggled a lot with Van. I hated the way he treated West. Yes, West is different and learns differently, but the way he was handled… it wasn’t easy to read. At the same time, this is a dark psychological romance, and every character in this book carries a twisted, almost chaotic mindset. No one is truly “okay” here and that’s what makes it heavy and gripping.
⚠️ Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in. This isn’t a light read at all.
That said, the writing was good overall, but the constant repetition of the word “fracture” stood out a bit, it could’ve been replaced with different expressions to keep the flow smoother.
Still, it’s a solid read with a unique, dark vibe that pulls you in.
I struggled a lot with Van. I hated the way he treated West. Yes, West is different and learns differently, but the way he was handled… it wasn’t easy to read. At the same time, this is a dark psychological romance, and every character in this book carries a twisted, almost chaotic mindset. No one is truly “okay” here and that’s what makes it heavy and gripping.
⚠️ Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in. This isn’t a light read at all.
That said, the writing was good overall, but the constant repetition of the word “fracture” stood out a bit, it could’ve been replaced with different expressions to keep the flow smoother.
Still, it’s a solid read with a unique, dark vibe that pulls you in.
April 12, 2026
Please by Ardis Thorne follows Westley, who sees the world through patterns, rules, and structure, and Van, who understands power and uses it without hesitation. When their lives collide, what starts off as control and certainty slowly turns into something more complicated and unsettling. The dynamic is very intense and leans heavily into psychological control and blurred lines, and it’s not softened or framed in a comfortable way. Westley’s perspective stood out to me the most because of how differently he processes everything, and Van is very controlling throughout.
🖤⚙️📚
I would rate Please ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because it’s very gripping and well written, but also really heavy and uncomfortable at times. It’s not an easy read at all, and I had to pause a few times just because of how intense it gets. The relationship is messy and suffocating in parts, and it definitely sits with you after reading. I did enjoy it overall, but I would still approach it with caution since it’s the kind of book that won’t work for everyone. Make sure to check trigger warnings before going in.
🖤⚙️📚
I would rate Please ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because it’s very gripping and well written, but also really heavy and uncomfortable at times. It’s not an easy read at all, and I had to pause a few times just because of how intense it gets. The relationship is messy and suffocating in parts, and it definitely sits with you after reading. I did enjoy it overall, but I would still approach it with caution since it’s the kind of book that won’t work for everyone. Make sure to check trigger warnings before going in.
March 20, 2026
This is an intense read that grabbed my attention right from the start. Note that the trigger warnings are there for a reason. This is not a chocolate and flowers romance. The characters do find a connection growing between them but the road is full of bumps and bruises. I loved being along for the ride as West and Van figure things out, their story is full of emotions. It was nice to see West begin to understand and open up to the world with the help of Van. Both men have their own issues and seeing how they helped each other made for a nice read. Their story has twists and turns and will pull on your heart at times. It may not be conventional but their relationship is what works for them. The author has created a world with strong characters and intense emotion. Their story moves at a good pace and pulls you in. Not only did I enjoy West and Van but the supporting characters made themselves known and I hope that we get to see more from this world and its characters.
March 25, 2026
I received this book from the author over Facebook as a mother of someone the same age as Westley, who is level 3 autistic. I could understand alot of the desicions made by his brother and lover. This book will destroy your boundaries and build them up again. Enjoy 😉
Contains spoilers
Alistair Hale is the true antagonist, using the twin dynamic as a weapon. His hobby of torturing his sons turns the story from a simple revenge plot into a deep psychological thriller about breaking generational cycles of trauma
Van’s dominance isn't just about control; it’s a tool that provides the extreme sensory input Westley needs to bypass his emotional disconnect and feel 'human' for the first time .
Westley’s Alexithymia means his brain can’t name his physical responses. Van’s brutality acts as a sensory anchor, forcing the 'noise' in West’s head to focus on a single, tangible sensation
Contains spoilers
Alistair Hale is the true antagonist, using the twin dynamic as a weapon. His hobby of torturing his sons turns the story from a simple revenge plot into a deep psychological thriller about breaking generational cycles of trauma
Van’s dominance isn't just about control; it’s a tool that provides the extreme sensory input Westley needs to bypass his emotional disconnect and feel 'human' for the first time .
Westley’s Alexithymia means his brain can’t name his physical responses. Van’s brutality acts as a sensory anchor, forcing the 'noise' in West’s head to focus on a single, tangible sensation
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
Please is my first Ardis Thorne novel. It will not be my last. I will admit, I was slightly worried about all of the trigger warnings, but I am glad that I decided to broaden my horizons and read it anyway. Yes, it was the darkest thing I have ever read but the characters were so likable that it was worth the read.
West and Alex are identical twins with opposite personalities. West has a neurological condition that makes it hard for him to understand his own feelings and interact with the world around him. I originally thought West was autistic, but emailed the author and Ardis assured me he was not and to read on for enlightenment. West is neurodivergent, so if that is a deal breaker, do not read. I will say he reminds me very much of my son and I loved the book even more for it.
Van is the son of a rival family that is searching for Alex for a crime against his family that he believes Alex has committed. He mistakes West for Alex and West decides to take Alex's torture for him. From here, Please is full of twists and turns. You never can tell who one of the good guys and who is bad.
I would recommend this book for those who can tolerate a very dark romance. This is the darkest I have read due to the psychological content. Be sure to read the trigger warnings which include graphic sexual content, homosexual content, rape and torture. That being said, it was an amazing love story and I cannot wait to read the next installment.
West and Alex are identical twins with opposite personalities. West has a neurological condition that makes it hard for him to understand his own feelings and interact with the world around him. I originally thought West was autistic, but emailed the author and Ardis assured me he was not and to read on for enlightenment. West is neurodivergent, so if that is a deal breaker, do not read. I will say he reminds me very much of my son and I loved the book even more for it.
Van is the son of a rival family that is searching for Alex for a crime against his family that he believes Alex has committed. He mistakes West for Alex and West decides to take Alex's torture for him. From here, Please is full of twists and turns. You never can tell who one of the good guys and who is bad.
I would recommend this book for those who can tolerate a very dark romance. This is the darkest I have read due to the psychological content. Be sure to read the trigger warnings which include graphic sexual content, homosexual content, rape and torture. That being said, it was an amazing love story and I cannot wait to read the next installment.
April 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I just finished Please by Ardis Thorne and this one completely pulled me in.
Westley was such a relatable character for me—I’ve been in that kind of emotional space before, and the way their journey was written felt very real and raw. This story wasn’t easy or smooth—it was messy, complicated, and a true emotional rollercoaster.
But that’s exactly what made it so powerful.
Watching Westley and Van fight their way to a happily ever after made the ending feel earned, not just given—and I loved that. It made the entire journey worth it.
I’m already invested in what comes next. I’m really hoping Lee and Alex get their own happy ending too, because their story definitely has my attention.
This was a 5⭐️ read for me.
#FiveStarRead
#DarkRomanceReads
#EmotionallyWrecked
#HEAAfterChaos
#ArdisThorne
I just finished Please by Ardis Thorne and this one completely pulled me in.
Westley was such a relatable character for me—I’ve been in that kind of emotional space before, and the way their journey was written felt very real and raw. This story wasn’t easy or smooth—it was messy, complicated, and a true emotional rollercoaster.
But that’s exactly what made it so powerful.
Watching Westley and Van fight their way to a happily ever after made the ending feel earned, not just given—and I loved that. It made the entire journey worth it.
I’m already invested in what comes next. I’m really hoping Lee and Alex get their own happy ending too, because their story definitely has my attention.
This was a 5⭐️ read for me.
#FiveStarRead
#DarkRomanceReads
#EmotionallyWrecked
#HEAAfterChaos
#ArdisThorne
February 27, 2026
Holy shit. This book messed me up.
It’s not morally gray. It’s black. Just… black. Check the trigger warnings if you need them because this story does not tone itself down for anyone.
I genuinely could not put it down. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and suddenly it was 3 a.m. Van is terrifying in the best way, and the dynamic between him and West? Intense. Uncomfortable. Addictive. You don’t always know if you should root for them — but you do.
If you want something soft and sweet, this isn’t it.
If you want dark, obsessive, boundary-pushing romance that lives in your head after you finish?
Read it.
It’s not morally gray. It’s black. Just… black. Check the trigger warnings if you need them because this story does not tone itself down for anyone.
I genuinely could not put it down. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and suddenly it was 3 a.m. Van is terrifying in the best way, and the dynamic between him and West? Intense. Uncomfortable. Addictive. You don’t always know if you should root for them — but you do.
If you want something soft and sweet, this isn’t it.
If you want dark, obsessive, boundary-pushing romance that lives in your head after you finish?
Read it.
March 2, 2026
I really loved Please. When Ardis Thorne writes dark romance, they mean dark so please check your trigger warnings and make sure you are mentally prepared for everything this book throws at you. The power dynamics between West and Van were so interesting and immediately sucked me in.I truly could not have predicted anything that was to happen.The underlying theme of agency is so important to me especially when there's dubious consent involved. This had me reading, holding my breath the entire time. Thank you so much for this ARC, and I look forward to reading anything else this author produces.
April 1, 2026
Wowza this one was dark like I’ve read other dark romance books and you justify a lot and that’s what happens here for
Me
Some things I reacted too first then justified it
West was such a complex character for me to see him evolve and process was something I’ve never read before in a character like him! The dynamic of west and Vans relationship starts off rocky af and you will question the things that Van does to him but if you give it a chance you will see how it fundamentally changes west for the better just keep reading and don’t let some of the harsher scenes stop you from seeing it through
Also I can’t wait to see more of Lee and Alex!
Me
Some things I reacted too first then justified it
West was such a complex character for me to see him evolve and process was something I’ve never read before in a character like him! The dynamic of west and Vans relationship starts off rocky af and you will question the things that Van does to him but if you give it a chance you will see how it fundamentally changes west for the better just keep reading and don’t let some of the harsher scenes stop you from seeing it through
Also I can’t wait to see more of Lee and Alex!
April 3, 2026
I WOULD LIKE TO STATT OFF BY SAYING READ YOUR TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!!
I honestly dont know what to say this book is darkkkk I have read many dark books and I have never needed a few days to recoup from all my feeling before picking up my next read but this one definitely changed that...if you like dark or books that will leave you staring at a wall this is a must read..I think they should up star ratings because this one out did the top star on the charts...I read the blurbs and kept a watch on this title but it definitely didn't prepare me for what I read...I will be back for more bc I have found out that no mater the darkness sometime I just need to read something on this level
I honestly dont know what to say this book is darkkkk I have read many dark books and I have never needed a few days to recoup from all my feeling before picking up my next read but this one definitely changed that...if you like dark or books that will leave you staring at a wall this is a must read..I think they should up star ratings because this one out did the top star on the charts...I read the blurbs and kept a watch on this title but it definitely didn't prepare me for what I read...I will be back for more bc I have found out that no mater the darkness sometime I just need to read something on this level
April 6, 2026
I started this book not knowing anything about it, this is a new author to me and I absolutely loved this book. It is a dark MM romance that you need to check your triggers. I loved both characters and found myself holding my breath at times. This story is tragic, painful and will make you think hard about the story. I definitely will recommend this to everyone. This is a book that I will be adding to my physical collection. Can't wait for the next book. Will definitely read more by this author.
April 22, 2026
Ardis Thorne
Please by Ardis Thorne completely pulled me in! I found the first few chapters were a bit slow, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. Westley is fascinating and different, and Van brings him to life in such a memorable way.
The plot kept me guessing at every turn, and the character development and spice were spot-on. Refreshing, unpredictable, and unlike anything I’ve read before—if you like dark MM romance this book will not disappoint.
Please by Ardis Thorne completely pulled me in! I found the first few chapters were a bit slow, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. Westley is fascinating and different, and Van brings him to life in such a memorable way.
The plot kept me guessing at every turn, and the character development and spice were spot-on. Refreshing, unpredictable, and unlike anything I’ve read before—if you like dark MM romance this book will not disappoint.
February 25, 2026
Please by Ardis Thorne
Read the trigger warnings!
My god..... This book was brutal, raw, emotional yet empathetic and well written.
I started off actually hating it, the characters, everything ...but it became brutally beautiful in it's own way.
If you're looking for a classic love story, you won't find that here. If, however, you're looking for intense, very dark and no heroines then READ IT! It's gripping, psychological and very deep.
Read the trigger warnings!
My god..... This book was brutal, raw, emotional yet empathetic and well written.
I started off actually hating it, the characters, everything ...but it became brutally beautiful in it's own way.
If you're looking for a classic love story, you won't find that here. If, however, you're looking for intense, very dark and no heroines then READ IT! It's gripping, psychological and very deep.
March 2, 2026
I was excited to pick up this book but I was also uncertain of my feelings. This book dives deep into trauma, loneliness, and pain, yet it also radiates love, acceptance, and heart. It’s gripping, psychological, and profoundly deep. Before diving in, be sure to check your triggers, as the book is both dark and unforgiving. The emotional impact of the story brought me to tears and broke my heart for these characters. It’s a story that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.
April 2, 2026
this book is raw and deeply emotional journey that pushes the boundaries of a dark romance, I found this story intense. and has very unpredictable plot that keeps you on your toes. there are some triggers that people need to take seriously before reading as some parts left me internally gasping. it's a very good read and I will recommend people to read this if they are wanting something a little bit darker
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