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Love Me Not
Love Me Not is a dark, fast-paced, smutty Valentine’s Day novella.
This race is life or death.
Every February, Miami’s underground elite gather for Cupid’s Run—a secret, week-long street race where engines scream, brakes fail, and losing means death.
Ronan Vale rules the streets with precision, obsession, and blood. Each night a racer dies, he comes back to Iris, their connection burning hotter as the body count rises. Desire becomes ritual. Violence becomes foreplay.
This year, a rival syndicate raises the stakes.
Seven races. Seven lives. And Iris is the prize.
When the final race pits Ronan against his deadliest enemy, only one man will survive—and only one will keep her.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Iris must decide how far she’ll go for the man she loves.
Because winning the race might keep him alive…but loving him may cost everything else.
This race is life or death.
Every February, Miami’s underground elite gather for Cupid’s Run—a secret, week-long street race where engines scream, brakes fail, and losing means death.
Ronan Vale rules the streets with precision, obsession, and blood. Each night a racer dies, he comes back to Iris, their connection burning hotter as the body count rises. Desire becomes ritual. Violence becomes foreplay.
This year, a rival syndicate raises the stakes.
Seven races. Seven lives. And Iris is the prize.
When the final race pits Ronan against his deadliest enemy, only one man will survive—and only one will keep her.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Iris must decide how far she’ll go for the man she loves.
Because winning the race might keep him alive…but loving him may cost everything else.
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 27, 2026
I want MORE!! This story is dark and gritty. Being a novella, we miss the meet cute and the backstory, what emotions brought them together. But the passion and the drive are both there full swing. I loved it and wish this would be expanded into a full length story that starts with their first interactions.
February 4, 2026
Love Me Not completely owned me. I loved everything about it: the characters, the plot, the tension, and yes… the smut 🌶️ Easy 5⭐️ for me.
This was my first book by this author and now I’m seriously wondering why I waited so long, because I’m officially hooked.
Fast, dark, obsessive, and addictive. If you like dangerous races, high stakes, morally questionable men, and a romance that burns while everything else falls apart, just read it.
Overall, it’s a gripping, well-written story that I genuinely enjoyed and that left a strong impression on me.
This was my first book by this author and now I’m seriously wondering why I waited so long, because I’m officially hooked.
Fast, dark, obsessive, and addictive. If you like dangerous races, high stakes, morally questionable men, and a romance that burns while everything else falls apart, just read it.
Overall, it’s a gripping, well-written story that I genuinely enjoyed and that left a strong impression on me.
February 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Standalone Novella
🗣️ Dual POV
🏎️ Street Racing
🖤 M/F
Neck breaking, fast paced novella based on underground street racing....YES PLEASE!!! Monique drew me in with her "The Never Never Duet" and I have been hooked ever since. So when she said she was releasing a surprise Novella involving Street Racing, I was immediately in. Iris and Ronan are absolute 🔥 together. I mean, these quotes.....
Ugh, I wanted more from this story. Because its a Novella you dont get the normal build up so everything is faster to start but I wish this was full length, cause I was not done with Ronan & Iris. I recommend you give this novella a try, especially if you like the below tropes. Happy reading!!
Tropes:
🏎️ Morally Gret MMC
🖤 Secret Lovers
🏎️ Underground Street Racing
🖤 "I Choose You Even If It Destroys Me" Love
🏎️ Touch her & Die
🖤 Controlled Obsession
🏎️ Ride-Or-Die FMC
🖤 Hidden Final Stakes
🏎️ Possessive
🖤 Death Race
🏎️ Exhibitionism
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
📚 Standalone Novella
🗣️ Dual POV
🏎️ Street Racing
🖤 M/F
Neck breaking, fast paced novella based on underground street racing....YES PLEASE!!! Monique drew me in with her "The Never Never Duet" and I have been hooked ever since. So when she said she was releasing a surprise Novella involving Street Racing, I was immediately in. Iris and Ronan are absolute 🔥 together. I mean, these quotes.....
"I will always come back to you, Iris, Even if I have to outrun death to do it."and....
"Our souls are welded together, and if don't cross that finish line alive, I'll drage her heart into the grave with me."
Ugh, I wanted more from this story. Because its a Novella you dont get the normal build up so everything is faster to start but I wish this was full length, cause I was not done with Ronan & Iris. I recommend you give this novella a try, especially if you like the below tropes. Happy reading!!
Tropes:
🏎️ Morally Gret MMC
🖤 Secret Lovers
🏎️ Underground Street Racing
🖤 "I Choose You Even If It Destroys Me" Love
🏎️ Touch her & Die
🖤 Controlled Obsession
🏎️ Ride-Or-Die FMC
🖤 Hidden Final Stakes
🏎️ Possessive
🖤 Death Race
🏎️ Exhibitionism
February 13, 2026
Unfortunately this one wasn't for me. The story was a bit repetitive and there was no character or story development or growth.
February 7, 2026
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
3.5 rounded to 4
Love Me Not is a fast, gritty, high-adrenaline novella that throws you straight into an underground racing world where obsession, danger, and desire collide. I was immediately hooked by the intensity of Cupid’s Run and the electric pull between Ronan and Iris. Even without much backstory, their connection feels raw, urgent, and fueled by equal parts lust and loyalty. The racing scenes are tense, one right after another for 7 days straight, and the spice hits hard. Dark, addictive, and perfect if you want a quick, dangerous romance that leaves you wanting more.
3.5 rounded to 4
Love Me Not is a fast, gritty, high-adrenaline novella that throws you straight into an underground racing world where obsession, danger, and desire collide. I was immediately hooked by the intensity of Cupid’s Run and the electric pull between Ronan and Iris. Even without much backstory, their connection feels raw, urgent, and fueled by equal parts lust and loyalty. The racing scenes are tense, one right after another for 7 days straight, and the spice hits hard. Dark, addictive, and perfect if you want a quick, dangerous romance that leaves you wanting more.
January 30, 2026
Man, Monique does it again!! I swear her writing gets better and better. This story had me from the first page. It did go from 0 to 150, it started at 150 out of the gate. This crazy world of street racing in Miami’s underground was intense! I enjoyed this novella so much. It was such a good plot and the smut was most definitely smutting!! Especially the last scene, holy hot!! IYKYK!! Monique, I need character art of that scene STAT!!! Omg!! You got this one out of the park and I cannot wait to see what you come up with next!!!
February 1, 2026
It’s fast, it’s furious, it’s spicy…
This book might be a novella but it definitely packs a punch. I did miss the development of the relationship but could absolutely feel the connection between the characters. I really enjoyed the plot and flow of this book, even as a short read it was filled with of detail that really made me feel like I was there. I love a strong FMC and Iris was absolutely that, I would love to revisit these characters again. Definitely add this to your TBR if you’re looking for a quick Valentines read.
This book might be a novella but it definitely packs a punch. I did miss the development of the relationship but could absolutely feel the connection between the characters. I really enjoyed the plot and flow of this book, even as a short read it was filled with of detail that really made me feel like I was there. I love a strong FMC and Iris was absolutely that, I would love to revisit these characters again. Definitely add this to your TBR if you’re looking for a quick Valentines read.
January 29, 2026
I love me a good Monique romance. She knows what she’s doing when it comes to smut! This book was such a fun ride (haha pun?) and I just couldn’t stop reading! Ronan was such a character! #LiveLaughLoveRonanVale I neeeeeed more content of him and Iris. 💕🏁
February 10, 2026
Ahh if I could give this 100 stars I would! I love my girl Monique 😍 she definitely knows how to give you what you want. The spicy scenes are TOP tier 🌶️
February 2, 2026
If you want something with a lot of smut but not much else this is for you!
The story is very repetitive. They race, hook up, next race, hook up, etc. You really don’t get much more than that.
I felt like it was very predictable as well. There were no shocking scenes. I always knew exactly what was coming.
The story is very repetitive. They race, hook up, next race, hook up, etc. You really don’t get much more than that.
I felt like it was very predictable as well. There were no shocking scenes. I always knew exactly what was coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2026
Love Me Not is not a romance you read for comfort. It’s a romance you read to feel unsettled, obsessed, breathless, and morally conflicted. This book is gritty, poetic, violent, sensual, and emotionally brutal in the best way.
From the opening lines, Monique Shepherd makes it very clear: this story runs on blood, engines, and sacrifice, not soft promises.
Atmosphere & Worldbuilding
Miami isn’t just a setting — it’s a living, breathing predator. The city hums with neon danger, corruption, heat, and decay. Every scene smells like gasoline, salt air, and scorched asphalt. The underground racing circuit, Cupid’s Run, is one of the most haunting concepts I’ve read in dark romance: Seven races. Seven nights. Valentine’s Day finish line. And every year, seven men die.
There’s no glamour here — only inevitability.
Iris Cross (FMC)
Iris is one of the strongest, most complex FMCs I’ve read in a long time. She isn’t fearless — she’s resigned. She inherited her father’s empire of death not because she wanted power, but because refusing meant annihilation.
She is:
* brilliant with engines
* emotionally fractured
* drowning in guilt
* fiercely controlled
* deeply, devastatingly human
Every death weighs on her. Every race car that crosses the line takes something from her. And yet she keeps going — because legacy, debt, and survival don’t allow softness.
Her inner conflict is constant: Does she honor her father’s blood-soaked legacy… or destroy it to save what little of herself remains?
Ronan Vale (MMC)
Ronan is not a golden retriever. He’s not a fixer. He is death in motion.
He races like he’s fulfilling a contract with fate — calm, controlled, ruthless. He doesn’t race to win money or fame. He races because he understands the asphalt the way priests understand altars.
And yet — with Iris — he cracks.
Their relationship is forbidden, dangerous, and deeply co-dependent, but never shallow. They don’t fall in love gently. They collide. Their chemistry is feral, adrenaline-soaked, and emotionally devastating.
Ronan knows he kills for her. Iris knows she lets him.
Neither pretends otherwise.
The Romance
This is not a healthy romance — and it’s not meant to be.
Their intimacy is raw, desperate, and fueled by adrenaline crashes after each race. Sex is survival. Touch is grounding. Pleasure is the only thing that pulls them back from the edge after death claims another soul.
Their love is defined by:
* denial
* fear of loss
* inevitability
* sacrifice
Every time Ronan gets behind the wheel, Iris is forced to relive her father’s death all over again. Every win tightens the noose around them both.
And yet… they cannot stop.
Themes
This book is about:
* legacy vs freedom
* love vs survival
* control vs chaos
* what we inherit vs what we choose
The title Love Me Not is painfully perfect — because every choice Iris makes feels like pulling petals off a daisy where every ending costs blood.
Final Thoughts
Love Me Not is dark romance for readers who want depth, danger, and devastation, not soft edges. It’s poetic, violent, sexy, and emotionally crushing — a story where love doesn’t save you, but it might be the only thing worth dying for.
If you love:
* underground racing
* morally gray leads
* fatalistic romance
* intense sexual tension
* power dynamics soaked in blood and gasoline
This book will consume you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Buckle up because Monique has done it again with her latest adrenaline-fueled novella! From the very first page, you’re thrown into the heart-pounding world of Iris—a fierce, take-no-prisoners heroine who’s suddenly inherited her father’s dangerous legacy. With the infamous Cupid Run looming—a seven-night death-defying race where only one competitor survives—Iris is forced to navigate a world she never wanted, all while trying to protect the one person who matters most: Ronan.
Ronan, Miami’s untouchable speed demon, has been racing for Iris’ family for years. This year, though, the stakes are personal. With their secret, sizzling connection simmering just beneath the surface, every lap takes on a new urgency. Ronan’s drive to survive and dominate isn’t just about winning—it’s about keeping Iris safe from every danger, including his fiercest rival, who’s set their sights on her. And when he’s faced with impossible choices, Ronan risks everything for the woman he can’t live without.
Monique’s storytelling grips you and doesn’t let go. The race sequences are intense and cinematic—you can practically feel the roar of engines and the thrill of speed. The romantic tension between Iris and Ronan? Off the charts. Every glance, every touch, every private moment is charged with heat, making the story as steamy as it is suspenseful. From secret trysts to public, heart-stopping displays of their desire, Monique delivers romance that’s raw, urgent, and utterly addictive.
This is a novella where danger and desire collide in every scene. You’ll be holding your breath one moment, fanning yourself the next, and cheering for Ronan and Iris with every twist and turn. By the final race, the stakes couldn’t be higher—victory means freedom, survival, and finally claiming the love they’ve both risked everything for.
If you’re craving fast cars, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and romance that will leave you breathless, this book hits every mark. Iris and Ronan are unforgettable, the tension is relentless, and the passion is volcanic. Monique has once again crafted a story that’s impossible to put down.
Ronan, Miami’s untouchable speed demon, has been racing for Iris’ family for years. This year, though, the stakes are personal. With their secret, sizzling connection simmering just beneath the surface, every lap takes on a new urgency. Ronan’s drive to survive and dominate isn’t just about winning—it’s about keeping Iris safe from every danger, including his fiercest rival, who’s set their sights on her. And when he’s faced with impossible choices, Ronan risks everything for the woman he can’t live without.
Monique’s storytelling grips you and doesn’t let go. The race sequences are intense and cinematic—you can practically feel the roar of engines and the thrill of speed. The romantic tension between Iris and Ronan? Off the charts. Every glance, every touch, every private moment is charged with heat, making the story as steamy as it is suspenseful. From secret trysts to public, heart-stopping displays of their desire, Monique delivers romance that’s raw, urgent, and utterly addictive.
This is a novella where danger and desire collide in every scene. You’ll be holding your breath one moment, fanning yourself the next, and cheering for Ronan and Iris with every twist and turn. By the final race, the stakes couldn’t be higher—victory means freedom, survival, and finally claiming the love they’ve both risked everything for.
If you’re craving fast cars, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and romance that will leave you breathless, this book hits every mark. Iris and Ronan are unforgettable, the tension is relentless, and the passion is volcanic. Monique has once again crafted a story that’s impossible to put down.
March 14, 2026
Love Me Not review
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
"Wanting her made him unstoppable. Loving her made him reckless"
Fast and Furious & Death Race combined with the racing and that only one makes it out alive
Fast paced, dangerously addictive, dark, sexy, suspenseful. Dive head first into Iris & Ronans forbidden, sexy relationship..hooked!
I loved the little quotes at the start of each chapter.
Iris is a fierce, strong, determined and doing everything she can in a world determined to break her
This year, everytime Ronan gets behind the wheel, Iris is forced to relive her fathers death all over again. Every win puts them in more danger and yet they cant stop until its over.
Iris inherited her father's business when he passed including Cupids Run; Miami's death race that takes place in the run up to Valentines Day.
"Seven races. Seven nights. No mercy. He said Valentine’s Day deserved blood because love always demands it in the end" only one racer survives
Ronan Vale - the untouchable speed demon of Miami. This year, the stakes are personal, with their sizzling connection every race takes on a different kind of urgency. He doesnt just want to win, he wants to keep Iris safe from danger. He will risk everything for the woman he cant live without.
You can feel the tension between them through the pages...every look, touch, private moment is fueled with desire, giving this suspenseful story a steamy aspect that we all love. Hot, intense and divine.
The car scene before the last race was just divine! And I especially loved the scene in the last chapter (you'll have to read it to see which one i mean 😉)
🚘 underground street racing
🖤 morally grey MMC
🚘 Secret lovers
🖤 touch her and die
🚘 controlled obsession
🖤 HEA
🚘 ride or die FMC
🖤 exhibitionism
🚘 death race
🖤 Possessiveness
🚘 "I choose you even if it destroys me" kind of love
"Ronan-" "Don't." His hands wrap around my throat, pressing firmly. "You don't get to talk, you just take what I give you"
"I will always come back to you Iris, even if I have to outrun death to do it"
"They call it fate when two souls collide. I call it impact"
"Our souls are welded together, and if I don't cross that finish line alive, I'll drag her heart into the grave with me"
"I learned control behind the wheel. I lost it when she said my name"
"I'll always make it to the end for you, little racer"
"Seven races. Seven nights. No mercy. He said Valentine’s Day deserved blood because love always demands it in the end."
“You at the finish line,” he says, each word a precision strike, “makes me untouchable.”
His grip tightens. “It’s always for you. Every race. Every victory. Every body I leave behind. And you know it.”
“Good girl,” he murmurs, and the praise sends heat flooding through me, makes my p*ssy spasm around him. “Such a good f*cking girl, taking my c*ck while you drive.”
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
"Wanting her made him unstoppable. Loving her made him reckless"
Fast and Furious & Death Race combined with the racing and that only one makes it out alive
Fast paced, dangerously addictive, dark, sexy, suspenseful. Dive head first into Iris & Ronans forbidden, sexy relationship..hooked!
I loved the little quotes at the start of each chapter.
Iris is a fierce, strong, determined and doing everything she can in a world determined to break her
This year, everytime Ronan gets behind the wheel, Iris is forced to relive her fathers death all over again. Every win puts them in more danger and yet they cant stop until its over.
Iris inherited her father's business when he passed including Cupids Run; Miami's death race that takes place in the run up to Valentines Day.
"Seven races. Seven nights. No mercy. He said Valentine’s Day deserved blood because love always demands it in the end" only one racer survives
Ronan Vale - the untouchable speed demon of Miami. This year, the stakes are personal, with their sizzling connection every race takes on a different kind of urgency. He doesnt just want to win, he wants to keep Iris safe from danger. He will risk everything for the woman he cant live without.
You can feel the tension between them through the pages...every look, touch, private moment is fueled with desire, giving this suspenseful story a steamy aspect that we all love. Hot, intense and divine.
The car scene before the last race was just divine! And I especially loved the scene in the last chapter (you'll have to read it to see which one i mean 😉)
🚘 underground street racing
🖤 morally grey MMC
🚘 Secret lovers
🖤 touch her and die
🚘 controlled obsession
🖤 HEA
🚘 ride or die FMC
🖤 exhibitionism
🚘 death race
🖤 Possessiveness
🚘 "I choose you even if it destroys me" kind of love
"Ronan-" "Don't." His hands wrap around my throat, pressing firmly. "You don't get to talk, you just take what I give you"
"I will always come back to you Iris, even if I have to outrun death to do it"
"They call it fate when two souls collide. I call it impact"
"Our souls are welded together, and if I don't cross that finish line alive, I'll drag her heart into the grave with me"
"I learned control behind the wheel. I lost it when she said my name"
"I'll always make it to the end for you, little racer"
"Seven races. Seven nights. No mercy. He said Valentine’s Day deserved blood because love always demands it in the end."
“You at the finish line,” he says, each word a precision strike, “makes me untouchable.”
His grip tightens. “It’s always for you. Every race. Every victory. Every body I leave behind. And you know it.”
“Good girl,” he murmurs, and the praise sends heat flooding through me, makes my p*ssy spasm around him. “Such a good f*cking girl, taking my c*ck while you drive.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
AHHH I loved this book!! It gives Fast & the Furious vibes with the racing, but a dark underground racing world where only one person comes out alive each race. Yes please sign me up. It was a super fun, edge of your seat read with plenty of spice.
"You don't get to talk. You just get to take what I give you."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💗Underground Street Racing
💗Morally Grey MMC
💗Secret Lovers
💗Touch Her & ☠️
💗Controlled Obsession
💗Ride-Or-Die FMC
💗Exhibitionism
💗Death Race
💗Found Family
"I'll always make it to the end for you, little racer."
Iris, a badass FMC, has had to take over the annual Cupid Run race after her fathers death. 7 races only 1 person comes out alive. She hates that she got forced into the role but hates even more that Ronan may not make it back to her. He is the best driver in the Miami circuit, and this year with him and Iris having a secret fling, hits harder for her to deal with. She just has to make it through 7 more races until she can breathe again. But this years stakes are different and a decision made for her may just change everything.
Ronan is the best driver in the Miami circuit and has been driving for Iris' family for a few years. This year is different. With his need to stay alive and win being heightened with the need to claim Iris from the competition, his decisions start to become reckless. But when his biggest rival threatens to take Iris, the only thing in his life he cares about, he agrees to the bet against her freedom. Vowing to not let anything happen to her no matter what. But knowing he may not make it out of the race alive, he does the next best thing right before the race ........ (I'm not spoiling it) All bets are off. And he is determined to make it back to her in one piece so they can leave this life behind. But will his determination be enough or will it lead to his downfall.
Thank you so much Monique for allowing me to be a part of your PA team and letting me alpha/beta read for you. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
"You don't get to talk. You just get to take what I give you."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💗Underground Street Racing
💗Morally Grey MMC
💗Secret Lovers
💗Touch Her & ☠️
💗Controlled Obsession
💗Ride-Or-Die FMC
💗Exhibitionism
💗Death Race
💗Found Family
"I'll always make it to the end for you, little racer."
Iris, a badass FMC, has had to take over the annual Cupid Run race after her fathers death. 7 races only 1 person comes out alive. She hates that she got forced into the role but hates even more that Ronan may not make it back to her. He is the best driver in the Miami circuit, and this year with him and Iris having a secret fling, hits harder for her to deal with. She just has to make it through 7 more races until she can breathe again. But this years stakes are different and a decision made for her may just change everything.
Ronan is the best driver in the Miami circuit and has been driving for Iris' family for a few years. This year is different. With his need to stay alive and win being heightened with the need to claim Iris from the competition, his decisions start to become reckless. But when his biggest rival threatens to take Iris, the only thing in his life he cares about, he agrees to the bet against her freedom. Vowing to not let anything happen to her no matter what. But knowing he may not make it out of the race alive, he does the next best thing right before the race ........ (I'm not spoiling it) All bets are off. And he is determined to make it back to her in one piece so they can leave this life behind. But will his determination be enough or will it lead to his downfall.
Thank you so much Monique for allowing me to be a part of your PA team and letting me alpha/beta read for you. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This was a fun, fast-paced, spicy dark romance novella and I desperately wanted more. The concept was so unique and addictive from the start.
Iris runs Cupid’s Run—a series of deadly street races held around Valentine’s Day—after being forced into the role following her father’s sudden death. Enter Ronan: a reckless, morally questionable street racer who competes every year and knows exactly how dangerous these races are… and doesn’t care.
Their relationship is forbidden, intense, and fueled by adrenaline. Stolen moments after each race, hearts pounding, bodies buzzing, desire barely contained. Every interaction feels sharp, obsessive, and on the edge of disaster.
This novella is dark, fast, and addictive. If you love high-stakes danger, morally gray men, obsession disguised as romance, and tension so thick it burns—this book will absolutely do it for you. 🖤🔥
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Romance Novella
➳❥ Secret Lovers
➳❥ Deadly Races
➳❥ Obsessive MMC
➳❥ Ride or Die FMC
➳❥ Exhibitionism
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“They said the city ran on money. They were wrong. It ran on blood and horsepower.”
“My father used to say that love and racing shared the same flaw. You think you're in control -- until you're not.”
“They call it fate when two souls collide. I call it impact."
"Wanting her made him unstoppable. Lover her made him reckless."
“I learned control behind the wheel. I lost it when she said my name.”
"This is art. You and me. The way we destroy each other and call it something else."
"You at the finish line makes me untouchable."
This was a fun, fast-paced, spicy dark romance novella and I desperately wanted more. The concept was so unique and addictive from the start.
Iris runs Cupid’s Run—a series of deadly street races held around Valentine’s Day—after being forced into the role following her father’s sudden death. Enter Ronan: a reckless, morally questionable street racer who competes every year and knows exactly how dangerous these races are… and doesn’t care.
Their relationship is forbidden, intense, and fueled by adrenaline. Stolen moments after each race, hearts pounding, bodies buzzing, desire barely contained. Every interaction feels sharp, obsessive, and on the edge of disaster.
This novella is dark, fast, and addictive. If you love high-stakes danger, morally gray men, obsession disguised as romance, and tension so thick it burns—this book will absolutely do it for you. 🖤🔥
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Romance Novella
➳❥ Secret Lovers
➳❥ Deadly Races
➳❥ Obsessive MMC
➳❥ Ride or Die FMC
➳❥ Exhibitionism
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“They said the city ran on money. They were wrong. It ran on blood and horsepower.”
“My father used to say that love and racing shared the same flaw. You think you're in control -- until you're not.”
“They call it fate when two souls collide. I call it impact."
"Wanting her made him unstoppable. Lover her made him reckless."
“I learned control behind the wheel. I lost it when she said my name.”
"This is art. You and me. The way we destroy each other and call it something else."
"You at the finish line makes me untouchable."
February 11, 2026
This was the first book I’ve read by Monique, and let me just say I need more... I’m officially hooked.
Love Me Not is a short but incredibly fast-paced, adrenaline fuelled novella that throws you straight into the action and never lets up. Even with its length, it’s packed with tension, emotion, and all the feels.
Iris is such a badass. Fierce, calculating, and completely commanding, I adored her. She inherits her father’s legacy, one that’s more than dangerous, and now runs Cupid Run, a deadly street race where only one competitor survives. The stakes are brutal, and Iris handles it all with sharp intelligence and steel nerves. And then there’s Ronan… whew. That man is swoony on a stick or more accurately, swoony in a Camaro. Miami’s best racer, confident and magnetic, he brings serious heat to the story. The chemistry between Iris and Ronan was absolutely fire.
This year’s race is more personal than ever. It’s not just about surviving, it’s about protecting each other. Beneath all the adrenaline, there’s a surprising emotional core that makes the stakes feel real.
The writing truly shines here. It’s gripping, cinematic, and so vivid you can practically feel the engines roaring and the tension vibrating off the pages. And the spice? Deliciously hot. The pacing is relentless in the best way. It never slows down, and I loved that intensity. I’m a sucker for strong FMCs and street racers, so this book was completely in my lane.
Thank you, Monique, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC! I can’t wait to dive into more of your books.
Love Me Not is a short but incredibly fast-paced, adrenaline fuelled novella that throws you straight into the action and never lets up. Even with its length, it’s packed with tension, emotion, and all the feels.
Iris is such a badass. Fierce, calculating, and completely commanding, I adored her. She inherits her father’s legacy, one that’s more than dangerous, and now runs Cupid Run, a deadly street race where only one competitor survives. The stakes are brutal, and Iris handles it all with sharp intelligence and steel nerves. And then there’s Ronan… whew. That man is swoony on a stick or more accurately, swoony in a Camaro. Miami’s best racer, confident and magnetic, he brings serious heat to the story. The chemistry between Iris and Ronan was absolutely fire.
This year’s race is more personal than ever. It’s not just about surviving, it’s about protecting each other. Beneath all the adrenaline, there’s a surprising emotional core that makes the stakes feel real.
The writing truly shines here. It’s gripping, cinematic, and so vivid you can practically feel the engines roaring and the tension vibrating off the pages. And the spice? Deliciously hot. The pacing is relentless in the best way. It never slows down, and I loved that intensity. I’m a sucker for strong FMCs and street racers, so this book was completely in my lane.
Thank you, Monique, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC! I can’t wait to dive into more of your books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second I started this novella, I was hooked! Fast cars? Underground street racing? Smut at 150mph? Yeah, right up my alley!
Ronan & Iris have me in a chokehold! Ronan is our mmc, Miami's untouchable speed demon and Iris is our fmc, she is a badass, fierce, heroine who inherited her father's dangerous legacy. With Cupid's Run coming up quick, a deadly 7 night death race, with only 1 survivor, Iris is forced to handle these races against her will basically, all while holding her breath while watching the one person that matters most- Ronan.
My only complaint about this one was that we didn't get to see Ronan & Iris meet, we're thrust into their fast paced world, but honestly you didn't even need to know what happened before because eventhough this is very fast, the connection and desire between them is unmistakable. The way he always protects her from danger and their rivals, the way their relationship is supposed to be "secret" but he will risk everything for her, I love them and I am obsessed. I wish I could read more of them!
Every page had me gasping, heart pounding, the adrenaline I felt from reading these races had me on the edge of my seat. And let me tell youuuu- the smut- was so so hot and well done.
Love Me Not gripped me from the start, if you enjoy fast cars, smut, adrenaline, exhibitionism & a hot af possessive mmc- definitely pick this up!!
Thank you so much for the arc!
Ronan & Iris have me in a chokehold! Ronan is our mmc, Miami's untouchable speed demon and Iris is our fmc, she is a badass, fierce, heroine who inherited her father's dangerous legacy. With Cupid's Run coming up quick, a deadly 7 night death race, with only 1 survivor, Iris is forced to handle these races against her will basically, all while holding her breath while watching the one person that matters most- Ronan.
My only complaint about this one was that we didn't get to see Ronan & Iris meet, we're thrust into their fast paced world, but honestly you didn't even need to know what happened before because eventhough this is very fast, the connection and desire between them is unmistakable. The way he always protects her from danger and their rivals, the way their relationship is supposed to be "secret" but he will risk everything for her, I love them and I am obsessed. I wish I could read more of them!
Every page had me gasping, heart pounding, the adrenaline I felt from reading these races had me on the edge of my seat. And let me tell youuuu- the smut- was so so hot and well done.
Love Me Not gripped me from the start, if you enjoy fast cars, smut, adrenaline, exhibitionism & a hot af possessive mmc- definitely pick this up!!
Thank you so much for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Speed doesn’t scare me. Losing you does.”
Valentine's is a special time for me, as this is also my Wedding Anniversary ( and I suggest DO NOT get married on a holiday )
I did not think Monique could write another book that would have me so enthralled with not only the characters but the story itself. Her Never Never duet was and still is one of my favorite series.
But by golly if she didn't do it again.
And yes, I read this in one sitting - it grabbed me from the first page and had me holding on till the final race.
BUT, with that being said - Ronan & Iris - Oooo myyyy myyyy.
The chemistry they have is such a thrill ride in itself.
Cupid Run is a week-long race - 7 days, 6 men can lose their lives, who will be the last man standing?
But when a blast from Ronan's past surfaces, he could lose everything he cares about. How far would YOU go for the person you love?
This is a must-read!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥(Spice level 5 is too calm for this book)
🏁 Underground Street racing
💘 Secret Lovers
🏁 “I choose you even if it destroys me” Love
🏁 Ride or D!e FMC
💘 Hidden Stakes
🏁 Possessive
💘 Exhibitionism
🏁 De@th race
💘 HEA
Valentine's is a special time for me, as this is also my Wedding Anniversary ( and I suggest DO NOT get married on a holiday )
I did not think Monique could write another book that would have me so enthralled with not only the characters but the story itself. Her Never Never duet was and still is one of my favorite series.
But by golly if she didn't do it again.
And yes, I read this in one sitting - it grabbed me from the first page and had me holding on till the final race.
BUT, with that being said - Ronan & Iris - Oooo myyyy myyyy.
The chemistry they have is such a thrill ride in itself.
Cupid Run is a week-long race - 7 days, 6 men can lose their lives, who will be the last man standing?
But when a blast from Ronan's past surfaces, he could lose everything he cares about. How far would YOU go for the person you love?
This is a must-read!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥(Spice level 5 is too calm for this book)
🏁 Underground Street racing
💘 Secret Lovers
🏁 “I choose you even if it destroys me” Love
🏁 Ride or D!e FMC
💘 Hidden Stakes
🏁 Possessive
💘 Exhibitionism
🏁 De@th race
💘 HEA
January 31, 2026
📖 Love Me Not – Monique Shepherd
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)
EN
Fast-paced and dangerously addictive, this novella throws you straight into the fire from the very first pages. There’s no slow setup, we’re dropped right into Ronan and Iris’s intense, forbidden story, and honestly… it works so well.
Even without seeing how they met, their connection feels raw and emotionally charged. The internal conflicts they’re both dealing with kept me completely hooked, and the tension never really lets up.
Short, powerful, and full of emotion. I loved every second of it. So happy I got to read this ARC as part of the author’s street team.
FR
Rapide, intense et délicieusement dangereux, ce court roman nous plonge directement au cœur de l’action dès les premières pages. Pas de longue introduction : on arrive en plein milieu de l’histoire interdite et passionnée entre Ronan et Iris et ça fonctionne parfaitement.
Même sans connaître leur rencontre, leur lien est fort, chargé d’émotions et de tension. Les conflits internes des personnages m’ont vraiment captivée du début à la fin.
Court, percutant et rempli d’émotions, j’ai adoré ma lecture. Très heureuse d’avoir pu lire cette copie ARC en tant que membre de la street team de l’auteure.
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)
EN
Fast-paced and dangerously addictive, this novella throws you straight into the fire from the very first pages. There’s no slow setup, we’re dropped right into Ronan and Iris’s intense, forbidden story, and honestly… it works so well.
Even without seeing how they met, their connection feels raw and emotionally charged. The internal conflicts they’re both dealing with kept me completely hooked, and the tension never really lets up.
Short, powerful, and full of emotion. I loved every second of it. So happy I got to read this ARC as part of the author’s street team.
FR
Rapide, intense et délicieusement dangereux, ce court roman nous plonge directement au cœur de l’action dès les premières pages. Pas de longue introduction : on arrive en plein milieu de l’histoire interdite et passionnée entre Ronan et Iris et ça fonctionne parfaitement.
Même sans connaître leur rencontre, leur lien est fort, chargé d’émotions et de tension. Les conflits internes des personnages m’ont vraiment captivée du début à la fin.
Court, percutant et rempli d’émotions, j’ai adoré ma lecture. Très heureuse d’avoir pu lire cette copie ARC en tant que membre de la street team de l’auteure.
March 3, 2026
This was such a steamy, action-filled quick read and honestly the perfect little Valentine’s novella. It’s intense, dangerous, fast-paced, and HOTTTT! Monique always delivers the juicy stuff right to my kindle LOL 🌶️🌶️
Especially after her Never Never duet, I’ll genuinely read anything she releases. Her storytelling always pulls me in!!!
That being said… ugh, I wanted moreeeee!!!
Because it’s a novella, you don’t get the slower build-up I usually gravitate toward. Which isn't a bad thing!! Everything moves faster, which works for the action and intensity, but I honestly wish this had been full length because I was not done with Ronan & Iris! They were so intense and addictive!! 😭
I wanted more tension. More emotional depth. Maybe one unexpected twist during the races that really raised the stakes. I kept bracing for something shocking, and when it didn’t happen, it felt slightly predictable at times.
But overall?
Still an amazing, super entertaining read with a confirmed HEA (because we do NOT play about that 😌 LOL)
If you’re looking for:
🏎️ Fast-paced action
🔥 Very spicy romance
💘 Quick Valentine’s read
⚡ Dangerous vibes
Definitely give this novella a try! I love you, Monique!! 💓💓💓
Especially after her Never Never duet, I’ll genuinely read anything she releases. Her storytelling always pulls me in!!!
That being said… ugh, I wanted moreeeee!!!
Because it’s a novella, you don’t get the slower build-up I usually gravitate toward. Which isn't a bad thing!! Everything moves faster, which works for the action and intensity, but I honestly wish this had been full length because I was not done with Ronan & Iris! They were so intense and addictive!! 😭
I wanted more tension. More emotional depth. Maybe one unexpected twist during the races that really raised the stakes. I kept bracing for something shocking, and when it didn’t happen, it felt slightly predictable at times.
But overall?
Still an amazing, super entertaining read with a confirmed HEA (because we do NOT play about that 😌 LOL)
If you’re looking for:
🏎️ Fast-paced action
🔥 Very spicy romance
💘 Quick Valentine’s read
⚡ Dangerous vibes
Definitely give this novella a try! I love you, Monique!! 💓💓💓
January 25, 2026
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (ARC Review)
Dark, addictive, and impossible to put down.
Love Me Not is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat from the first page and doesn’t let go. The premise alone (deadly underground street races, obsessive love, and a heroine caught between desire and survival) is irresistible, but the execution is what makes this unforgettable.
Ronan is dangerous in the way only truly well-written morally questionable characters are: precise, ruthless, and heartbreakingly human beneath the violence. Iris isn’t just a prize or a bystander… her choices, fears, and emotional conflict feel real, which makes the stakes hit harder. The chemistry between them is electric, but it’s layered with tension and genuine emotional weight.
The pacing is relentless. Every scene feels urgent and the atmosphere is thick with heat, danger, and inevitability. It’s dark romance done right.
If you love morally gray men, high-stakes plots, and dark romance with real teeth, Love Me Not will absolutely wreck you, in the best way. I devoured this in one sitting and am still thinking about it.
Dark, addictive, and impossible to put down.
Love Me Not is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat from the first page and doesn’t let go. The premise alone (deadly underground street races, obsessive love, and a heroine caught between desire and survival) is irresistible, but the execution is what makes this unforgettable.
Ronan is dangerous in the way only truly well-written morally questionable characters are: precise, ruthless, and heartbreakingly human beneath the violence. Iris isn’t just a prize or a bystander… her choices, fears, and emotional conflict feel real, which makes the stakes hit harder. The chemistry between them is electric, but it’s layered with tension and genuine emotional weight.
The pacing is relentless. Every scene feels urgent and the atmosphere is thick with heat, danger, and inevitability. It’s dark romance done right.
If you love morally gray men, high-stakes plots, and dark romance with real teeth, Love Me Not will absolutely wreck you, in the best way. I devoured this in one sitting and am still thinking about it.
February 4, 2026
“I will always come back to you, Iris. Even if I have to outrun death to do it.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Monique has a way to suck me into a story that I cannot explain. This short novella is nothing but PERFECT, full of spicy chapters like I think in every single chapter there is a smut scene 😜 and what’s better than that right. I remember asking Monique if she saw the movies Fast and Furious recently or had a dream cuz man this book is exactly that but so much better.
I was mesmerized by this novella, the story grabbed from the very first page to the very last. The chemistry between the main characters, the plot, the everything lol it was just chef kiss. The FM on this story is what a call a BAD A$$s hand’s down to her for been so independent but also sweet at times and our hot MMC besides acting like a macho man 😜to her he was the sweetest darkest soul, hopefully i make sense lol. Monique always does it for me, no doubt. The story is fast, dark, and so freaking addictive like OMG you would not want to stop reading. At this point i am convinced she can write about ANY topic and she would do amazing.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Monique has a way to suck me into a story that I cannot explain. This short novella is nothing but PERFECT, full of spicy chapters like I think in every single chapter there is a smut scene 😜 and what’s better than that right. I remember asking Monique if she saw the movies Fast and Furious recently or had a dream cuz man this book is exactly that but so much better.
I was mesmerized by this novella, the story grabbed from the very first page to the very last. The chemistry between the main characters, the plot, the everything lol it was just chef kiss. The FM on this story is what a call a BAD A$$s hand’s down to her for been so independent but also sweet at times and our hot MMC besides acting like a macho man 😜to her he was the sweetest darkest soul, hopefully i make sense lol. Monique always does it for me, no doubt. The story is fast, dark, and so freaking addictive like OMG you would not want to stop reading. At this point i am convinced she can write about ANY topic and she would do amazing.
February 7, 2026
🏁”I'll always make it to the end for you, little racer."
Let me just say….this novella chose violence, speed, and obsession… and I devoured it!😈
This is engines screaming, bodies hitting pavement, and desire sharpened by death.
Cupid’s Run is a week long underground street race where losing means you don’t make it home, and every night the body count rises.
Ronan Vale doesn’t just race, he dominates.
Iris doesn’t just survive, she commands.
Their relationship? 🔥 Secret 🔥 Obsessive 🔥 Fueled by adrenaline and inevitability
Every race tightens the tension.
Every stolen moment feels like it might be the last. Desire becomes ritual.
Violence becomes foreplay.
And when Iris becomes the prize?
Yeah. I stopped breathing.😮💨
The pacing is relentless, the chemistry is feral, and the vibes are pure dark romance chaos.
Perfect if you love: 🏁 Underground street racing 🖤 Obsessive, touch her and die MMC 🏁 Ride or die FMC 🖤 Secret lovers 🏁 Death race stakes 🖤 Exhibitionism 🏁 Morally gray men who would burn the city for her
Fast. Dirty. Dangerous.
A Valentine’s novella for readers who like their romance sharp edged and breathless.💔🔥
Let me just say….this novella chose violence, speed, and obsession… and I devoured it!😈
This is engines screaming, bodies hitting pavement, and desire sharpened by death.
Cupid’s Run is a week long underground street race where losing means you don’t make it home, and every night the body count rises.
Ronan Vale doesn’t just race, he dominates.
Iris doesn’t just survive, she commands.
Their relationship? 🔥 Secret 🔥 Obsessive 🔥 Fueled by adrenaline and inevitability
Every race tightens the tension.
Every stolen moment feels like it might be the last. Desire becomes ritual.
Violence becomes foreplay.
And when Iris becomes the prize?
Yeah. I stopped breathing.😮💨
The pacing is relentless, the chemistry is feral, and the vibes are pure dark romance chaos.
Perfect if you love: 🏁 Underground street racing 🖤 Obsessive, touch her and die MMC 🏁 Ride or die FMC 🖤 Secret lovers 🏁 Death race stakes 🖤 Exhibitionism 🏁 Morally gray men who would burn the city for her
Fast. Dirty. Dangerous.
A Valentine’s novella for readers who like their romance sharp edged and breathless.💔🔥
February 12, 2026
Love Me Not completely owned me.
Like… fully. No notes.
I loved everything about this — the characters, the pacing, the tension, and yes… the smut. This book is honestly about 95% heat with the perfect mix of story woven in, and somehow it works flawlessly. It’s fast, dark, obsessive, and addictive in that “just one more chapter” way that turns into finishing the whole thing.
And yes… I absolutely read chunks of this at work in between helping people. Which should tell you everything about how hooked I was. Priorities? Questionable. Regrets? None.
I already love Monique’s writing. She’s one of my top go-to authors for a reason. But she still manages to pull me in every single time. Her morally grey men feel intentional, not just edgy for shock value. The obsession feels earned. The tension builds exactly the way it should. And when the emotional payoff hits? It hits.
If you love high-stakes street racing, possessive energy, and a romance that burns hot while everything else is on the verge of crashing, this delivers.
Gripping. Addictive. Filthy in all the right ways — with a story strong enough to back it up.
Easy five stars.
Like… fully. No notes.
I loved everything about this — the characters, the pacing, the tension, and yes… the smut. This book is honestly about 95% heat with the perfect mix of story woven in, and somehow it works flawlessly. It’s fast, dark, obsessive, and addictive in that “just one more chapter” way that turns into finishing the whole thing.
And yes… I absolutely read chunks of this at work in between helping people. Which should tell you everything about how hooked I was. Priorities? Questionable. Regrets? None.
I already love Monique’s writing. She’s one of my top go-to authors for a reason. But she still manages to pull me in every single time. Her morally grey men feel intentional, not just edgy for shock value. The obsession feels earned. The tension builds exactly the way it should. And when the emotional payoff hits? It hits.
If you love high-stakes street racing, possessive energy, and a romance that burns hot while everything else is on the verge of crashing, this delivers.
Gripping. Addictive. Filthy in all the right ways — with a story strong enough to back it up.
Easy five stars.
February 3, 2026
LOVE ME NOT
“They said the city ran on money. They were wrong. It ran on blood and horsepower.”
“My father used to say that love and racing share the same flaw. You think you’re in control—until you’re not.”
“I never kissed her before a race. I always kissed her after.”
This is a fast-paced smutty Valentine’s day novella involving Miami’s underground street racing with deadly stakes and a relationship that feeds off the high of danger and violence.
Every February, Cupid’s Run brings together skilled street racers to compete in the deadly seven day event. Only one will survive. But this year, the stakes are higher. This year, Iris is the prize, and Ronan Vale won’t let anyone take Iris away from him even if it means going up against his deadliest enemy.
This story was a fast-paced, high-stakes thrill ride with just the right mix of danger, spice, and romance! It was so much fun from start to finish! A great little novella for Valentine’s Day!
“I will always come back to you, Iris. Even if I have to outrun death to do it.”
“They said the city ran on money. They were wrong. It ran on blood and horsepower.”
“My father used to say that love and racing share the same flaw. You think you’re in control—until you’re not.”
“I never kissed her before a race. I always kissed her after.”
This is a fast-paced smutty Valentine’s day novella involving Miami’s underground street racing with deadly stakes and a relationship that feeds off the high of danger and violence.
Every February, Cupid’s Run brings together skilled street racers to compete in the deadly seven day event. Only one will survive. But this year, the stakes are higher. This year, Iris is the prize, and Ronan Vale won’t let anyone take Iris away from him even if it means going up against his deadliest enemy.
This story was a fast-paced, high-stakes thrill ride with just the right mix of danger, spice, and romance! It was so much fun from start to finish! A great little novella for Valentine’s Day!
“I will always come back to you, Iris. Even if I have to outrun death to do it.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re looking for a "sweet" Valentine’s read, keep on driving—because Monique Shepherd just set the day on fire. Love Me Not is a high-speed, high-stakes dive into the dark side of passion and is easily one of the most pulse-pounding reads, I’ve read so far this year. Forget the flowers and the chocolates!
The pacing of Love me Not for me was phenomenal. It is packed with emotional stakes but keeps it balanced with a heavy dose of heat! Oh man is there heat! The prose is sharp with cutting edges and cinematic, smoothly switching between heart pounding action of Cupids Run and darker more heated side of intimacy.
Be prepared, this is a daker romance packed with heat! It explores danger, obsession, and moral haziness-which come on-almost all of us dark romance readers love! While this read is full of heat it never feels costless and unwarranted. Every dark spicy moment shows the desperation they have for each other as well as their deep-seated ride or d!e connection.
My Final Thoughts:
Love Me Not is a high-octane, pitch-black dive into the Miami underground that leaves you gasping. The depth of world-building and the sheer strength of the character dynamics are nothing short of extraordinary.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The pacing of Love me Not for me was phenomenal. It is packed with emotional stakes but keeps it balanced with a heavy dose of heat! Oh man is there heat! The prose is sharp with cutting edges and cinematic, smoothly switching between heart pounding action of Cupids Run and darker more heated side of intimacy.
Be prepared, this is a daker romance packed with heat! It explores danger, obsession, and moral haziness-which come on-almost all of us dark romance readers love! While this read is full of heat it never feels costless and unwarranted. Every dark spicy moment shows the desperation they have for each other as well as their deep-seated ride or d!e connection.
My Final Thoughts:
Love Me Not is a high-octane, pitch-black dive into the Miami underground that leaves you gasping. The depth of world-building and the sheer strength of the character dynamics are nothing short of extraordinary.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 7, 2026
🏁 ARC review 🏁
Thank you Monique for the arc! I loved Iris & Ronan! 😍
Love Me Not is a dark romance novella, set around Cupid’s Run - a deadly set of 7 street races that takes place in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, in Miami’s underground.
Iris & Ronan’s chemistry was 🔥🔥 the hood scene was a heck of a way to kick off the final race! I’m just glad my man Otto wasn’t there to witness it firsthand 😂 I think he may have been my fave character, I’ll forever have a soft spot for him 💕🫶
I’d rate Love Me Not 4 stars out of 5! I’ll happily reread it again! If I could make one remark/comment, it would be that the act of popping the button on her jeans came up quite frequently for such a short story. I didn’t mind it, but it was frequent enough that my brain caught it and it pulled me out of the story just for a second each time 🩷
This was a fast paced, smutty novella, so be prepared to be dropped into a pre-existing world, with characters who already have history (and chemistry). Buckle up and enjoy the ride - literally! 🔥🩷
Thank you Monique for the arc! I loved Iris & Ronan! 😍
Love Me Not is a dark romance novella, set around Cupid’s Run - a deadly set of 7 street races that takes place in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, in Miami’s underground.
Iris & Ronan’s chemistry was 🔥🔥 the hood scene was a heck of a way to kick off the final race! I’m just glad my man Otto wasn’t there to witness it firsthand 😂 I think he may have been my fave character, I’ll forever have a soft spot for him 💕🫶
I’d rate Love Me Not 4 stars out of 5! I’ll happily reread it again! If I could make one remark/comment, it would be that the act of popping the button on her jeans came up quite frequently for such a short story. I didn’t mind it, but it was frequent enough that my brain caught it and it pulled me out of the story just for a second each time 🩷
This was a fast paced, smutty novella, so be prepared to be dropped into a pre-existing world, with characters who already have history (and chemistry). Buckle up and enjoy the ride - literally! 🔥🩷
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This was a solid four stars. I really liked the street racing elements and the fact that it ties around Valentine’s Day and this is a really good novella for my dark romance book besties.
I think that this has a repetitiveness with it though. Because it’s seven days of seven races those seven days are kind of repetitive.
The races are different and the driver as well as their cars are different, but the outcome is the same. For the first six races the MMC wins while the other person dies, and then when he wins, he has intimate experiences with the female main character.
The route of the race in the manner of which the loser dies is different though as well as the car that they’re racing with.
I liked the journal and feel of the races. I thought the secret romance was sweet and the spicy were very good.
If you want a book that’s spicy has a little bit of dark elements to it and a fast read that this is the perfect book for Valentine’s Day, especially if you like dark romance.
🌶️🌶️
This was a solid four stars. I really liked the street racing elements and the fact that it ties around Valentine’s Day and this is a really good novella for my dark romance book besties.
I think that this has a repetitiveness with it though. Because it’s seven days of seven races those seven days are kind of repetitive.
The races are different and the driver as well as their cars are different, but the outcome is the same. For the first six races the MMC wins while the other person dies, and then when he wins, he has intimate experiences with the female main character.
The route of the race in the manner of which the loser dies is different though as well as the car that they’re racing with.
I liked the journal and feel of the races. I thought the secret romance was sweet and the spicy were very good.
If you want a book that’s spicy has a little bit of dark elements to it and a fast read that this is the perfect book for Valentine’s Day, especially if you like dark romance.
January 25, 2026
Short, spicy, and one hell of a ride at 150 mph!
Iris inherited her father’s legacy, and his debts. In order to pay them off, shes forced to continue Cupid’s Run- a seven night race to the death that culminates on Valentine’s Day. But this year, the stakes are raised and it’s her heart that’s on the line.
Ronan is known as the ghost of Miami. He’s never lost a race, and doesn’t plan to start now. Seven races, seven wins, and he can finally have all he ever wanted… her.
I loved that these two had a history when we met them, which made for some high stakes, tight tension, and smoldering spice. Ronan is so down bad for Iris and I loved getting his point of view. He lays his heart on the line with every single race, and it’s only once he wins that he allows himself to have her.
And, can we talk about the scenes directly before and after that last race. I’m still fanning myself over two scenes in particular! So perfectly them and I loved every minute of this book!
Iris inherited her father’s legacy, and his debts. In order to pay them off, shes forced to continue Cupid’s Run- a seven night race to the death that culminates on Valentine’s Day. But this year, the stakes are raised and it’s her heart that’s on the line.
Ronan is known as the ghost of Miami. He’s never lost a race, and doesn’t plan to start now. Seven races, seven wins, and he can finally have all he ever wanted… her.
I loved that these two had a history when we met them, which made for some high stakes, tight tension, and smoldering spice. Ronan is so down bad for Iris and I loved getting his point of view. He lays his heart on the line with every single race, and it’s only once he wins that he allows himself to have her.
And, can we talk about the scenes directly before and after that last race. I’m still fanning myself over two scenes in particular! So perfectly them and I loved every minute of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is one helluva intro to Monique's work! This action packed story follows Iris and Ronan in a dark underground world of street racing! This spicy novella is non-stop from beginning to end, and I WANT MORE!!!! More of this world, more of their love. What happens next, is what I want to know. Will we return to this world with another story?!?! I have questions!! What happens with Otto, by the way??!
I gasped, my heart went into my throat, my heart was racing! Some of those races are stuff of my nightmares, those accidents are tragic, my adrenaline was raging! Well done!!
I zoomed through this story SO FAST because I NEEDED TO KNOW the outcome of each race! I was not guaranteed a HEA so partly in the back of my mind I prepared for heartbreak. Happily, there was no tragedy!!
I gasped, my heart went into my throat, my heart was racing! Some of those races are stuff of my nightmares, those accidents are tragic, my adrenaline was raging! Well done!!
I zoomed through this story SO FAST because I NEEDED TO KNOW the outcome of each race! I was not guaranteed a HEA so partly in the back of my mind I prepared for heartbreak. Happily, there was no tragedy!!
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