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In The Dark
How do you love someone when the truth could break them?
Jo Bleasdale wasn't looking for anything serious . . . not after her last breakup left her guarded and adrift. But in the pitch-black anonymity of an exclusive club, she finds something unexpected.
A connection. Craving. A release.
Amelia Loughlin leads a very different life. One built on poise, reputation, and the cautious distance she's spent years cultivating. But when her past and present suddenly collide in the most impossible way, she’s faced with a devastating choice. Does she protect the truth or risk everything for the woman who makes her feel alive again?
As secrets unravel and emotions deepen, Jo and Amelia must navigate a world of fallout, family, and forbidden desire. Because falling in love was never supposed to happen, but now it may just be the only way forward.
In the Dark is a raw, sensual sapphic erotic romance about identity, healing, and the woman who sees you when no one else ever has.
Contains mature themes.
Jo Bleasdale wasn't looking for anything serious . . . not after her last breakup left her guarded and adrift. But in the pitch-black anonymity of an exclusive club, she finds something unexpected.
A connection. Craving. A release.
Amelia Loughlin leads a very different life. One built on poise, reputation, and the cautious distance she's spent years cultivating. But when her past and present suddenly collide in the most impossible way, she’s faced with a devastating choice. Does she protect the truth or risk everything for the woman who makes her feel alive again?
As secrets unravel and emotions deepen, Jo and Amelia must navigate a world of fallout, family, and forbidden desire. Because falling in love was never supposed to happen, but now it may just be the only way forward.
In the Dark is a raw, sensual sapphic erotic romance about identity, healing, and the woman who sees you when no one else ever has.
Contains mature themes.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2026
About the author
Melissa Tereze
44 books786 followersMelissa Tereze is a best-selling author living in Liverpool, UK, with her fiancée and Golden Retriever. She holds a degree in Sports Development, and when she’s not writing, she can be found at a local bar singing one of her favourite tracks.
You can contact Melissa through her social media and her website.
You can contact Melissa through her social media and her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 3, 2026
frustratingly good
“GET YOUR S**T TOGETHER” were words I found myself (silently) screaming into the void of night as the clock rolled past 2am and my wife snored peacefully beside me.
I’m not sure which character I wanted to throw the book of communication at more. Jo or Amelia. Probably Jo.
The chemistry starts pretty much at chapter 2, there’s electricity, passion, desire. The whole works needed for an erotic novel that turns the spice from simmer to “who forgot to turn the pasta down” as it flows over the sides. Yet amongst this heat, there are two broken women afraid to let their wounds open for that much needed air to help them heal. A past scarred with abuse, and a relationship thrown away for another model has these two women so closed off, the only way they can release is in the dark.
Yet again, I find myself questioning the moral decisions of these characters whilst defending them to anyone who asks me. Melissa just has this way of making you crave their happy endings no matter how misguided their beginning are.
This is an excellent release from Melissa Tereze
“GET YOUR S**T TOGETHER” were words I found myself (silently) screaming into the void of night as the clock rolled past 2am and my wife snored peacefully beside me.
I’m not sure which character I wanted to throw the book of communication at more. Jo or Amelia. Probably Jo.
The chemistry starts pretty much at chapter 2, there’s electricity, passion, desire. The whole works needed for an erotic novel that turns the spice from simmer to “who forgot to turn the pasta down” as it flows over the sides. Yet amongst this heat, there are two broken women afraid to let their wounds open for that much needed air to help them heal. A past scarred with abuse, and a relationship thrown away for another model has these two women so closed off, the only way they can release is in the dark.
Yet again, I find myself questioning the moral decisions of these characters whilst defending them to anyone who asks me. Melissa just has this way of making you crave their happy endings no matter how misguided their beginning are.
This is an excellent release from Melissa Tereze
April 2, 2026
I needed a hit of spice after my last read.. and this had it! Story was ok. Characters were.. ok. But at least there was 🌶️
Read
February 21, 2026I really enjoyed the first chapter. It was full of mystery and sexiness. But once Amelia’s POV was introduced, it became less mysterious and less sexy. I even cringed a little at some of the interactions. I also felt like the storytelling was quite fragmented, and sadly, that made me DNF
February 3, 2026
A warning for a fire extinguisher should be placed on this book! Jo and Amelia's relationship is based on Jo being dumped by Amelia's son-no definitely non-traditional. Jo has a crush on Amelia but would never cross that line but fate-as it usually does steps in. Jo at a friends urging visits a a club and decides to take a chance and she visits a dark room where she has an encounter with a woman that changes her life! Amelia of course in that woman but Jo has no idea who she is-however Amelia realizes Jo immediately and having a large crush for Jo allows the encounter to continue.
What follows is a slow burn, will they or won't they story that drives the reader crazy! Don't wait on this one!
What follows is a slow burn, will they or won't they story that drives the reader crazy! Don't wait on this one!
February 3, 2026
This story had so many parts to it. It really represented how people don’t feel comfortable in their skin and sometimes pretending to be someone else is easier. The yearning and tension was top tier but the push and pull had me on the edge of my seat. Jo had a serious internal struggle with being accepting of her feelings for her Ex’s Mom but she also didn’t want to risk their friendship. It’s like I could feel her inner struggle. Amelia literally had my whole heart. I truly loved her character, it’s like I could feel her desire for Jo through my screen. I’ve read a decent amount of Melissa’s books and this was so different then any I’ve read.
February 4, 2026
Another incredibly hot and brilliant Tereze hit! She does age gap so well, she remains a 1-click author for me
February 4, 2026
Goddamnit Melissa, why do you always do this to me? I honestly shouldn’t be surprised anymore with the type of angst that her books include but damn. As someone who doesn’t necessarily enjoy angst (I’m just a sweet summer child who loves fluff), Melissa’s books are like cat nip to me. I even said to Jess earlier when I was reading that I was terrified in how Melissa is gonna stab me with angst. I still don’t think I’m over how Choose You started off 🤣
I literally spent the whole time reading having visceral reactions and yelling at the book. The ‘will they, won’t they’ was driving me up a fucking wall and I loved every second of it. Melissa is able to create these women that you utterly fall for and root for them even through all their questionable decisions. Not to mention, women dripping with sex appeal and charm. Absolute powerhouses on the outside, but warm and soft on the inside. I’m just going to go off the rails at this point and say that this was such a sexy book. And I know, I know she’s known for it but holy smokes. Floored me. Was not expecting all of that. If there’s an audiobook, it may be the death of me 🥵
Back to my review, overall I absolutely loved Amelia and Jo. Both of them complete simps and idiots. Their chemistry was palpable and rooted in such a beautiful foundation of friendship (minus the longingly stares). I think at one point I questioned the pacing and some of the character’s decisions but it all made sense in the end. I thought I knew what direction Melissa was going in but I was so so wrong. In The Dark is a fantastic read if you’re looking for something steamy and angsty but with a lot of heart too.
If there’s ever more that comes to this book and universe, please for the sake of my sanity make it about Evie. I can imagine and foresee where it could go next with Amelia and Jo but they deserve a happy quiet life lol. Please and thank you.
Melissa, thank you so much for the ARC. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. You always have me sat whenever you drop the words age gap and mother.
Anyway, just go read the damn book!
I literally spent the whole time reading having visceral reactions and yelling at the book. The ‘will they, won’t they’ was driving me up a fucking wall and I loved every second of it. Melissa is able to create these women that you utterly fall for and root for them even through all their questionable decisions. Not to mention, women dripping with sex appeal and charm. Absolute powerhouses on the outside, but warm and soft on the inside. I’m just going to go off the rails at this point and say that this was such a sexy book. And I know, I know she’s known for it but holy smokes. Floored me. Was not expecting all of that. If there’s an audiobook, it may be the death of me 🥵
Back to my review, overall I absolutely loved Amelia and Jo. Both of them complete simps and idiots. Their chemistry was palpable and rooted in such a beautiful foundation of friendship (minus the longingly stares). I think at one point I questioned the pacing and some of the character’s decisions but it all made sense in the end. I thought I knew what direction Melissa was going in but I was so so wrong. In The Dark is a fantastic read if you’re looking for something steamy and angsty but with a lot of heart too.
If there’s ever more that comes to this book and universe, please for the sake of my sanity make it about Evie. I can imagine and foresee where it could go next with Amelia and Jo but they deserve a happy quiet life lol. Please and thank you.
Melissa, thank you so much for the ARC. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. You always have me sat whenever you drop the words age gap and mother.
Anyway, just go read the damn book!
February 23, 2026
Duel 3rd Person POV. 5🌟 4🌶️. 328 pages
8 Spice Scenes
Gods this book was so devilishly delicious. The right amount of tension, the perfect amount of sexual frustration, the deliciousness of the hidden dark rooms and the “forbiddenness” of lusting after your ex’s mom. Melissa Tereze ate with this book!
In The Dark follows Jo a woman healing from the heartbreak of being cheated on and left, when her best friend invites her to a local sapphic sex club, where desires can be fulfilled in the anonymity of dark rooms or for the brave public ones. In these dark rooms Jo finds apart of herself that she lost, however, it’s who she sleeps with that may cause problems, her ex boyfriend’s mom. Amelia is aware that it is Jo the minute she steps through the door, but decides to take what she’s always wanted. The story if filled with secrets and deception, a mutual longing outside the club and the fear of what will happen should they give into their wants.
I adored this book so much and have fallen completely in love with Jo and Amelia. Their chemistry was immaculate, their intimacy was spectacular and the elements of longing were heart achingly beautiful. The only thing I didn’t get was Jo’s hang up about Amelia being her ex’s mom and that being her reason that they couldn’t be together, like come on your ex is an asshole of course you should bang his mom!
Honestly this book is just *chefs kiss*. Melissa Tereze knows how to write the perfect sapphic romance, if you’re looking for high heat, so much tension, longing and heart warming moments then do yourself a favour and read her books!
Things to LOVE:
✨Erotic Sapphic Romance
✨Forbidden Desire
✨Ex Boyfriend’s Mom
✨Age Gap (35 + 54)
✨Anonymous Sex in Dark Rooms
✨Secrets
✨Healing
✨Hurt/Comfort
✨SPICY! 🥵
8 Spice Scenes
Gods this book was so devilishly delicious. The right amount of tension, the perfect amount of sexual frustration, the deliciousness of the hidden dark rooms and the “forbiddenness” of lusting after your ex’s mom. Melissa Tereze ate with this book!
In The Dark follows Jo a woman healing from the heartbreak of being cheated on and left, when her best friend invites her to a local sapphic sex club, where desires can be fulfilled in the anonymity of dark rooms or for the brave public ones. In these dark rooms Jo finds apart of herself that she lost, however, it’s who she sleeps with that may cause problems, her ex boyfriend’s mom. Amelia is aware that it is Jo the minute she steps through the door, but decides to take what she’s always wanted. The story if filled with secrets and deception, a mutual longing outside the club and the fear of what will happen should they give into their wants.
I adored this book so much and have fallen completely in love with Jo and Amelia. Their chemistry was immaculate, their intimacy was spectacular and the elements of longing were heart achingly beautiful. The only thing I didn’t get was Jo’s hang up about Amelia being her ex’s mom and that being her reason that they couldn’t be together, like come on your ex is an asshole of course you should bang his mom!
Honestly this book is just *chefs kiss*. Melissa Tereze knows how to write the perfect sapphic romance, if you’re looking for high heat, so much tension, longing and heart warming moments then do yourself a favour and read her books!
Things to LOVE:
✨Erotic Sapphic Romance
✨Forbidden Desire
✨Ex Boyfriend’s Mom
✨Age Gap (35 + 54)
✨Anonymous Sex in Dark Rooms
✨Secrets
✨Healing
✨Hurt/Comfort
✨SPICY! 🥵
February 2, 2026
Melissa Tereze's first book of the year is absolutely top-notch romangst!
I love the thrilling, the agony, the hope and despair of her main characters—every time I read her books. You know it's going to be an emotional rollercoaster, and you just let yourself be swept away.
The love story between Jo and Amelia, the mother of her unfaithful and idiotic ex-boyfriend, is hot and secret.
So secret, in fact, that even Jo initially—or even for a long time—has no idea that it's Amelia who's helping her overcome her past with Callum in the darkness of Club Satin and leading her to new erotic heights. She thinks she's an anonymous woman, as is customary at Satin.
Amelia is initially surprised to see Jo at the club, especially in the Dark Room, which she's been booking for some time to leave her own demons behind and be free. But she's been in love with Jo, her son's ex-girlfriend, for so long that she simply can't help herself. It's just a one-time thing… and she'll never know… or will she?
Many thanks to Melissa for this wonderful story and the review copy!
I love the thrilling, the agony, the hope and despair of her main characters—every time I read her books. You know it's going to be an emotional rollercoaster, and you just let yourself be swept away.
The love story between Jo and Amelia, the mother of her unfaithful and idiotic ex-boyfriend, is hot and secret.
So secret, in fact, that even Jo initially—or even for a long time—has no idea that it's Amelia who's helping her overcome her past with Callum in the darkness of Club Satin and leading her to new erotic heights. She thinks she's an anonymous woman, as is customary at Satin.
Amelia is initially surprised to see Jo at the club, especially in the Dark Room, which she's been booking for some time to leave her own demons behind and be free. But she's been in love with Jo, her son's ex-girlfriend, for so long that she simply can't help herself. It's just a one-time thing… and she'll never know… or will she?
Many thanks to Melissa for this wonderful story and the review copy!
April 15, 2026
loved it
Yes I’m still way behind on my reading, yes I did bump up this one as it’s been quite a while since I read a MT book.
Loved the characters and the drama this book has. Looking at it from both sides, I get why “Lia” did what she did. Jo’s reaction, while understandable, was a little OTT.
Again, everything boils down to communication. Mind you, if every character spoke to each other, it would be a pretty boring story.
The conflicted feelings, the dark, the wanting but wondering what others would say…it makes for a great story.
Right, I’m pretty sure I’ve missed a book or two somewhere down the line. Time to figure out which ones…
Yes I’m still way behind on my reading, yes I did bump up this one as it’s been quite a while since I read a MT book.
Loved the characters and the drama this book has. Looking at it from both sides, I get why “Lia” did what she did. Jo’s reaction, while understandable, was a little OTT.
Again, everything boils down to communication. Mind you, if every character spoke to each other, it would be a pretty boring story.
The conflicted feelings, the dark, the wanting but wondering what others would say…it makes for a great story.
Right, I’m pretty sure I’ve missed a book or two somewhere down the line. Time to figure out which ones…
February 3, 2026
The book draws you in straight away with its bold storyline. The storyline is handled with care, making what could feel shocking come across as heartfelt and meaningful. Jo and Amelia’s connection is intense, full of passion, vulnerability, and real emotional depth. The story shows the courage it takes to follow your heart despite judgment and complicated past ties. And it’s Melissa Tereze so spice is in its usual abundance.
February 14, 2026
great story
I binge-read this book, from yesterday night to late the following afternoon. I probably knew how it would end, but the mark of a really good writer is that, n matter the truth of the trope, there's always that little wonder if "it" will really work out, or who might jump out from behind the curtain and screw everything up.
Thanks, Melissa, for your originality and talent.
I binge-read this book, from yesterday night to late the following afternoon. I probably knew how it would end, but the mark of a really good writer is that, n matter the truth of the trope, there's always that little wonder if "it" will really work out, or who might jump out from behind the curtain and screw everything up.
Thanks, Melissa, for your originality and talent.
February 20, 2026
Jo loves Amelia, but thinks she's off limits because she's the mother of her ex. When her best friend Ada tells her about Satin a women's club. Jo signs up and also does for a dark room. Not knowing in the dark room is Amelia. The two have an incredible time, but Amelia chickens out on telling Jo her real name and says it's Lia. This is their story! What will happen when Jo finds out the truth? delicious, angsty, and beautiful age gap love story! A FAVORITE! I LOVE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!
May 18, 2026
Wonderful forbidden romance with a big secret that causes a bunch of angst throughout. It was especially clear to me (as the reader) that there was something there between Jo and Amelia, even though they spent a lot of time struggling against it (for reasons, of course). Then, I thought it was great that the conflict wrapped up short of the end — in time for a number of happy scenes between them. It left me with only one question: what did Jo ever see in Callum, lol
February 3, 2026
Did I spend half the book shouting at Amelia and Jo? Yes. Did I take to the DMs of my friends who were reading alongside me to scream? Also, yes. And that is exactly what I want in a book. Just when you don't think it can get messier, it does. And I loved every single second of it. I don't think I have anything constructive to say so just read it!
Thank you to the author for the ARC
Thank you to the author for the ARC
February 13, 2026
English is not my native language, but when it comes to Melissa, I have to read it. It's the second book of this year, it is very good, good grammar, a well-directed story. Unfortunately I could't connect with the characters, it was difficult for me and I hate it because it became tedious, although as always the sex scenes were incredible, that you want to be Jo in that dark room.
February 13, 2026
Ruined....in all the right ways
Strangers in the dark. Friends who talk about things that happen in the dark during the day. Ex's, secrets, and rebuilt lives are exposed as we learn the story of Jo and Amelia. Melissa Teresa gives us a breathtaking story of overcoming your past, your pain, and finding love. Definitely one to purchase and keep on your shelf for rereading.
Strangers in the dark. Friends who talk about things that happen in the dark during the day. Ex's, secrets, and rebuilt lives are exposed as we learn the story of Jo and Amelia. Melissa Teresa gives us a breathtaking story of overcoming your past, your pain, and finding love. Definitely one to purchase and keep on your shelf for rereading.
February 14, 2026
Fantastic!
Melissa Tereze never fails. Another amazing book. I really enjoyed the character/ relstionship building and overall story. It didnt feel like an immediate happy ending. Never can go wrong with any of her books. I read this in less than a day. Couldn't put it down! Cant wait for the next one she writes.
Melissa Tereze never fails. Another amazing book. I really enjoyed the character/ relstionship building and overall story. It didnt feel like an immediate happy ending. Never can go wrong with any of her books. I read this in less than a day. Couldn't put it down! Cant wait for the next one she writes.
February 6, 2026
Excellent book
Loved this book as I do all of your books. Maybe we can find out more about Evie and Ada if you continue a part 2. This book was really great. Can’t wait for your next book.
Loved this book as I do all of your books. Maybe we can find out more about Evie and Ada if you continue a part 2. This book was really great. Can’t wait for your next book.
February 8, 2026
Absolutely amazing book! I read it all within 1 night! I was so hooked. I loved the chemistry between the main characters the story was just 'chefs kiss'. I smiled so much through this book and also felt every emotion through the turmoil and choices! Highly recommend giving this book a read.
February 9, 2026
Wow another phenomenal story I just love reading any book by Melissa Tereze I am always surprised by her books this one is phenomenal the main characters were described with so much depth perfection in keeping you hooked I really couldn't put it down definitely must read congratulations
February 17, 2026
Great as always
Melissa Tereze is my favorite and has yet to disappoint. I hope she releases this as an audio book.
I love the emotion in her characters. I look forward to whatever is next.
Melissa Tereze is my favorite and has yet to disappoint. I hope she releases this as an audio book.
I love the emotion in her characters. I look forward to whatever is next.
February 19, 2026
So good! As alwaysssssss
Melissa Tereze is one of my favorites and never lets me down! 💞💞💞 She's the best! (Even though I had to readdddd it and imagine their voices in my own stupid American accent. 😅😅😅)
Melissa Tereze is one of my favorites and never lets me down! 💞💞💞 She's the best! (Even though I had to readdddd it and imagine their voices in my own stupid American accent. 😅😅😅)
March 8, 2026
Great Read!
Melissa Tereze delivers another great read! The characters are well written as always and the story/plot itself was addicting enough that I finished the book in a single setting!
Melissa Tereze delivers another great read! The characters are well written as always and the story/plot itself was addicting enough that I finished the book in a single setting!
March 31, 2026
Melissa Does It Again
If youre a fan of MT's work you will enjoy this, if youre new to this authors work give it a try, i enjoyed the book a great deal, the way the forbidden aspects were written was fantaically done. Age Gap, Forbidden, Fem/Fem.
If youre a fan of MT's work you will enjoy this, if youre new to this authors work give it a try, i enjoyed the book a great deal, the way the forbidden aspects were written was fantaically done. Age Gap, Forbidden, Fem/Fem.
February 5, 2026
Brilliant, loved it
February 11, 2026
worth missing sleep
I read this book in one day. I woke up and finished at 3am to see how it ended. It was worth it.
I read this book in one day. I woke up and finished at 3am to see how it ended. It was worth it.
February 11, 2026
I am a huge Melissa fan but her last two books have not been to her normal standard. this book just seemed to drag on with not alot happening.
February 14, 2026
Hooked
I was hooked on this book from the start, well written, love the way melissas books always draw me in, another great story
I was hooked on this book from the start, well written, love the way melissas books always draw me in, another great story
February 16, 2026
Must read
Another compelling tale from this author. Lots of emotions and good depth to characters and storyline, definitely add to your tbr
Another compelling tale from this author. Lots of emotions and good depth to characters and storyline, definitely add to your tbr
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews