Deprived

by Jasmine Rae, E.L. Hicks (Secondary Author)

497 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 27, 2026

Reviews

[Keets · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deprived was my second ever ARC read 📖✨ and it was everything I love about dark romance 🖤🔥

Some of the tropes for this book are:
Enemies to Lovers 😈
Forced Proximity 👀
Arranged Engagement 💍
Reverse Harem 👑
Slow Burn 🔥🐌

We are also gifted with a two-page list of trigger warnings ⚠️, a playlist 🎶 and some spice 🌶️🌶️.

There are three MMCs in this book — Caden, Fiz and Alfie 🖤 Each one is completely different from the others, but they are all wonderful and special in their own ways. I really struggled to pick a favourite from these… so I will happily accept that I have now accumulated three new book boyfriends 😌📚💕

The FMC, Elodie, is such a strong woman 💪🏼 that has been through so much and has built up so much rage towards everyone around her. She is stubborn 😤, hot-headed 🔥 and a fighter 🥊 — and she absolutely refuses to bow down to anyone’s expectations.

I am absolutely obsessed with this book 🤍 and I’m not quite sure I will ever recover from it 😭🔥

This book is released on 27th March 2026 ✨️

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this book is dark, gritty, witty, heartbreaking and AMAZING!! Every spare moment I was picking my kindle up to read!!

The 3 main male characters all give different vibes and I loved that each personality was different and unique! You truly get Labrador, German Shepard and Rottweiler vibes across the boys!!

Elodie, the FMC is a fierce firecracker who only knows how to fight her way through life, her story is heartbreaking but her character development is *chefs kiss*

Her relationships with each of the guys are so different and I really loved exploring all the quirks and differences with each relationship, and all of the characters relationship developments was a work of art!

I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book! This is truly a must read series!!!

p.s. make sure to buy hobnobs before reading, you and your unexpected cravings will thank me later 🤣🖤

[Natalie nataliescraftedcreations · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Deprived
Author Jasmine Rae.
Dark Romance Book 1
Obsidian Souls Trilogy
Releasing 27th March 2026

Deprived is a Dark RH romance and contains explicit sexual content and very dark, difficult themes. Please read through the content warnings listed inside the book before reading.
Strictly recommended for readers 18+ only

What to Expect!
🖤ADHD rep
🖤Underworld Crime
🖤Obsessive and Possessive
🖤Age gap
🖤Yearning/pining
🖤PTSD rep
🖤Slow Burn
🖤Open Door
🖤Multiple POV
🖤Found family
🖤protective
🖤Feminine Rage
🖤Dark and Graphic
🖤Trauma Bonding
🖤Addict Rep
🖤Reverse Harem
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🖤Forced Engagement
🖤Furry Companions
🖤Morally black/grey Characters
🖤Touch her and Die

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️



I was gifted an early e-book of Deprived, from the Authors. This exchange is for nothing more than my Honest Review. This review is my own and is therefore…. Honest!

This is book one of a continuous tale across three books. It is a brutal love story about finding home in the most unlikely places.

⚠️This includes dub-con, non-con, and more so check your triggers.

🖤 My thoughts🖤

If you are looking for a clean/soft/fluffy/trauma free romance, you will not find that in this book!

Deprived is book 1 in a trilogy and oh my what a book it is!
This is a must read, if you love a dark RH romance…..please give this a go ! It’s Such a dark and messy ,however welcoming ride.
Don’t forget to check your Triggers. I mean there is some very, very questionable behaviour on all parts in this….

Elodie, this girl has been through it but refuses to back down and take it. She keeps the darkness as her friend but she is a fighter! I love the way Elodie tends to rile the 3 men up and in multiple ways.

“I’ve seen the worst in people. There’s nothing left to be afraid of”

Then you have the men…. Caden, Fiz and Alfie , yes, morally black/grey men, oh yes please!!! Though all are very questionable. I do love how they are in fact different and bring something else, to the story.
Let me say the four of them together, it’s just perfect, Even as messed up as they are. I’m obsessed.


I can not wait for the rest! This is going to be awesome trilogy.


Author has done a great job with this one! Bring on book 2!!

⚠️Check your Triggers! ⚠️


I see the beauty beneath the wounds, see the strength behind the sadness. She’s fierce, but still so soft. Delicate. From a world that has tried so hard to break her, to turn her into something dark and terrible, she refuses to yield. She still remains soft.

[Ashe | mybookishhyperfix · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Wow! I went into this without any expectations and it was everything I wanted from a DARK romance. This was such a tense and emotional read, it is not for the faint hearted. It’s dark, it’s deep, it’s raw, it’s heavy and explores some very hard topics but it was such an incredible read.

The 3 MMCs all bring something different to the table. Alfie is just well and truly a golden retriever and I love him so much. He’s the protector, the care giver and helps nurture Elodie back to life. But we also know he has this darker side to him that we have yet to see. Fiz was like the stereotypical unhinged ars*hole, but his banter and sarcastic personality had me softening towards him and one particular scene had me falling for him!! I enjoyed his character growth. Caden I wanted to punch in the face for the majority of the book! He’s so stubborn, and his back and forth with Elodie was difficult to read at times, yet I couldn’t stop reading! I was so glad to finally see a softer side to him at the end and I can’t wait to see his character growth in the next book!

Elodie is one of the most traumatised FMCs I’ve read about and I felt so much for her and everything she had been through. There were certain scenes where her terror was conveyed so vividly that my heart was breaking for her. Her fighting spirit and determination in the face of everything she’s faced had me rooting for her and I admired her strength so much.

They are all messed up in their own ways and all fighting their own demons, but I loved the dynamics between all four of them. You can see the sparks of a bond there between them all and I cannot wait to see it develop.

The writing was brilliant, the storyline addictive and the characters compelling. The multiple POVs worked so well for this book, I loved getting all the guys input. I would have like more of all their backstories but I appreciate this is the first book of a series and expect that we will get further backstory in the coming sequels. I do also wish we got more of the Hunt. I loved the concept and there was a lot of build up and anticipation but then it felt over and done with quite quickly.

I loved the twist at the end! I had a suspicion it was coming and was so happy when that suspicious was confirmed! It makes me so excited for the next book.

This book is DARK. I don’t really have any triggers and I’m not going to lie, at one point I did question whether this book was too much for me but I’m so so glad I kept going because it was so good. Deprived completely sucked me in, I could not put it down and was gutted when I read the last page that it was the last page! Safe to say I cannot wait for book 2!!

Thank you so much to the author Jasmine Rae for gifting me an arc. All opinions are my own.

[amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️

I was lucky enough to ARC read Deprived (Book One of the Obsidian Souls Trilogy) by Jasmine Rae, and I genuinely have not stopped thinking about it since.

For my inspired Pinterest board (spoilers possible) - @amberlw04 - books - obsidian souls

First of all — this is DARK. Like, check your triggers, hug your comfort blanket, and clear your schedule dark. It is a why choose romance, but it is not soft or gentle about it. It digs under your skin and makes you sit in the discomfort… and I loved it for that.

I’m actually dying that I have to wait for the next two books because that ending??? Illegal.

There were so many moments where I wanted to hate all three of the boys. I was groaning in frustration, muttering at my Kindle, dramatically sighing. Especially Caden. Oh my god, especially Caden. But somehow — every single time — I ended up obsessed. Completely in love. Down horrendous. The emotional whiplash this woman put me through needs to be studied.

Alfie though? Alfie can do no wrong. I will hear no arguments. That’s my man and I’m standing by it.

And Fiz… Fiz grew on me so fast. Like one minute I was unsure and the next I was kicking my feet and smiling at my screen. The way Jasmine writes emotional turmoil is insane — she has you groaning in frustration one chapter and squealing the next. It’s chaotic. It’s addictive. It’s perfect.

The spice? So good. Written so well. Just… yummy. Tension-filled, emotional, intense. And THAT scene with Caden? I ate it UP. No crumbs. Zero regrets.

But honestly, Elodie stole this entire book for me. She is such an amazing FMC. Relatable, realistic, soft but not weak. She can bite back. She protects herself. And she also fully embraces her naughty side when she wants to. I loved that duality so much. She felt real — messy, emotional, strong in quiet ways.

Jasmine Rae’s writing style is just… everything. I love everything she writes. There’s something about the way she builds tension and emotion that just works on me every single time.

And the ending 🥲 Safe to say this book kept me up way past my bedtime 🤣 and I would absolutely do it again.

Now I just need the next two books immediately because I am not okay.

[Cheska Me and my Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️’s
Arc review.
This is a multi POV RH Dark Romance packed with trauma, emotional turmoil, forced proximity, yearning, slow burn, morally grey/black characters, feminine rage and banter.
Deprived follows the dark journey of feisty FMC. Elodie, after being abused and tortured by her own father her whole life she is forced to marry the ruthless Prince of the Underworld, Caden.
Not only is she forced to live with her betrothed, but his cousin Alfie, best friend Fizz, and their three scary fur babies.
Deprived had me absolutely hooked from the beginning.
I could not put this book down, it just had me fully immersed and invested from start to finish.
I loved how fleshed out each character was giving a POV for each main one, truly allowing you to see into their minds and inner monologues and being able to understand their motives or why they behave the way they do, even when not always justified.
Elodie has such a strong spirit, and I truly felt her trauma, strength, spirit and feminine rage throughout this.
The three MMC’s each bring something different to the mix, each connecting with a different part of Elodie.
Alfie the golden retriever you can’t help but instantly love, also has a contradicting dark side that makes you want him to let come out to play.
Fizz, and his unhinged cheeky self will have you softening to his questionable morals pretty quickly and becoming a favourite, despite his introduction to Elodie.
Caden, too stubborn and proud for his own damn good will have you wanting to throttle him and shake some sense into his thick skull, grows on you as you start to see the internal battle and denial within.
All four of them come with their own baggage, each fighting their own personal demons.
I loved the dynamics between them all, and really enjoyed the concept of them all being on edge with the cleanse and how that added so much more intrigue and tension to the mix.
This book had me feeling and experiencing every moment of emotional turmoil, rage, frustration, and yearning in the best way possible.
I could not get enough of this book and cannot wait for book 2, to see where it leads, and how each character and their relationships start to grow.

[Ana]

I received an advance copy of this book but these thoughts and feelings are entirely my own.

I don’t think this book was the right fit for me, although the premise initially caught my attention. The FMC especially intrigued me at the start—she came across as strong yet deeply traumatised, which made me want to keep reading.

However, I struggled with the writing style. The descriptions felt overly extended at times, often focusing on details that didn’t add much to the overall experience. In the opening chapter, for instance, there’s a heavy emphasis on the dungeon setting, followed by repeated mentions of the FMC’s physical condition. While this may have been intentional, it affected the pacing for me and made it harder to stay immersed in the story.

I was still willing to continue for the plot, but my main issue came with the introduction of the MMCs. As this is a why-choose dark romance, I expected morally grey characters and heavier themes. However, I found their initial conversation off-putting in a way that went beyond what I personally enjoy in the genre.

Before even meeting the FMC properly, the MMCs speak about her in a consistently degrading and objectifying way—discussing her in terms of use, making crude assumptions, and using language that felt unnecessarily harsh. What stood out to me was that this wasn’t framed as a moment of conflict or tension; it read more like casual, everyday dialogue between them. That made it difficult for me to connect with or feel interested in their characters moving forward.

I understand that darker dynamics and unlikeable characters can be intentional and appealing to some readers, but for me, this crossed a line where it detracted from my ability to engage with the story.

Because of this, I ultimately decided to DNF. I can see the direction the author was going in, and I think readers who enjoy very dark, unapologetic character dynamics may appreciate this more. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t a good match for my preferences.

[Booksandpurrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ 4.8/5 Stars
Obsidian Souls Book 1
From the very first sentence I read ‘The dark is my friend now.’ I knew this was going to be good. Just how good I had no idea
Check the trigger warnings (you need to). Loved how there was a playlist too. And the cover for the book, YES!
By page 3 (I won’t spoil it for you), I had goosebumps. I felt I could totally visualise the scene, the sounds. The emotion.
FMC: Elodie, loved her! I don’t want to give too much away about the story, but I loved the fight in her, the unhinged parts of her and at times the tenderness we get to see.
MMC: Caden, ooof, broody, intelligent, fierce, with the dark side that I was so here for.
But how can I forget about Alfie and Fiz? The three of these delicious guys brought so much individuality to the story, and seeing how Elodie had her own relationship with each of them, the frustrations was perfect.
The chemistry between all of the characters was sizzling, the tension! 😍🔥
I literally devoured this book in one sitting, that’s how engrossed I was. I’d tell myself just one more chapter and I couldn’t stop reading more.
Every trigger warning you can think of, yep this is it. Did it bother me? Hell no I was down for all of it! And the plot twist at the end????!
Fantastically written, thrilling, spicy, great plot, great character development. Intriguing, emotional, frustrating.
For all the dark mafia romance peeps out there, you need to read this!
I’m not ok after finishing this amazing book. Arghhhhhh, how am I supposed to wait until book 2?! I’m going to be setting a reminder on my calendar when book 2 comes out for sure.
Thank you to the author Jasmine Rae for providing me with an Arc copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Faye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy smokes this is dark and dangerous and seriously deprived! The title of the book is absolutely perfect for this deliciously dark and seriously spicy book.

Told from multiple POV’s the three ‘boys’ Alfie, Caden and Fiz, and Elodie our feisty protagonist, Elodie ends up betrothed to Caden to bring two crime families together but holy moly the absolute hatred they have for each other is intense, but things are never as they seem.
The trigger warnings for this book are extensive and I am not even joking when I say that even my less than prudish mind was blown by the sheer depravity you read in this book.

I have never read a RH (Reverse Harem fyi as I had no idea that was what those two letters meant before reading the book 🤣) but I kinda liked it! Although I think I was expecting it to be a little more female dominated but I still enjoyed the quirky and kinky dynamics and sexual tension between all four of them!

This isn’t a book for new readers to dark romance to start with if Iam honest…. As it’s sooo dark it’s pitch black, there’s no morally grey men there is just down right pitch black with now light ever to be seen!!
I could not stop reading, I read the last half of the book in an afternoon. So well set up for book 2, which I cannot wait for! I need to find out if my theory of Caden and Elodies new found focus turns out to be what I think it is!

There was a point where I started to get a bit frustrated with Caden and Elodies back and forth hatred, but almost as soon as I felt that was when the tables turned so very well written to get you to that frustration and then flip you around and shove it in your face!

For dark romance fans who like morally black or should I say 3 morally black MMC’s you will LOVE this book.

[Beautifully Broken Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

💀💀💀 Deprived 💀💀💀

💀 True Enemies-to-lovers
💀 Forced Proximity
💀 Trauma/Healing
💀 Multiple POV
💀 Arranged Marriage
💀 Criminal Families
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

I am addicted to this storyline. It had me hooked right from the start, I read it in one sitting, I just couldn't put it down.

Elodie is a brilliant FMC. They throw everything imaginable at her to make her break and she just keeps on fighting back. Her conversations with the dark are great to read, they are just little glimpses of how her mind had kept her going after everything she's been through.

Caden demands respect in all aspects his life and thrives on control. He was not prepared for the wirldwind that is Elodie entering his life and has no clue how to break what's already broken. The tension between Elodie and Caden is delicious, I cannot wait for his f*ck it moment and I hope she keeps pushing his buttons and taking none of his sh*t in the next book.

Fiz reminds me so much of Grey (from Steph Macca's Dance with My Demons series). I really enjoy those cheerfully violent, unhinged characters. He brings a breath of fresh air and humour to the read (aswell as multiple red flags of his own). High Fiz is so sweet, loved that scene for him and Elodie. His backstory was teased in this book so looking for to getting more from him in the next one.

Alfie is the strong, stable one out of our MMC's, (until he's not). He's more mature and emotionally regulated, but is haunted by his own demons that could push him over the edge at any moment. He's fallen head over heels for Elodie and is so protective of her.

Perfectly distburded dark romance read. Please read the trigger warnings on this before you jump in 🖤

[Amara F · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*

So dang, this is real dark lol. Even just based off the beginning. The way it was described by how she was feeling physically was why writing is so beautiful and haunting. She went through so much.

Their clothing options feel very stylized and forced. Fiz in a tracksuit with a gold chain seems a little on the nose and a bit. I’d like to stray away from stereotypes.

We love a good Alfie. Golden retrievers are the best. I like the differences between the 3. They each have their own personas. There is just a lot of chapters of them fighting and bickering, I didn’t mind it at the beginning because it shows the story and the beginning of all their relationships but the same thing is happening 90% into the book became too much. I started to get annoyed with it. I wanted to see growth, story, something.

I wish we got more answers about her previous life and why they always said she was doing the naughty and why did she freak out over that one guy?

Thank you so much for letting me read it. While I like dark romance, this one might be a bit too dark for me but my rating will be based off of the story not my preferences cause there were parts I actually enjoyed about it. I was getting into it. I’d rate it probably a 2.5-3 cause I think the hunt was a cool idea and I like the idea of this story in general. I would have given it a 4 if the majority of the book wasn’t just them bickering,
I also would have liked more story. I cannot thank the author enough. I think fans of really dark romance will have a field day with this!

[Helena · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Deprived” is definitely not for the weak, it’s packed with dark subjects, graphic descriptions, dark humour and sarcasm.

This isn’t your average fluffy romance, it’s unique and it’s gritty. The concept and the storyline is captivating and from the start I was instantly drawn in and I really struggled to put the book down.

There are three main male characters Caden, Fiz and Alfie who are all really messed up and I can kind of understand why. We learn the most about Caden but I can’t wait to learn more about Fiz and Alfie in the rest of the series, I’m really intrigued to know more about their story. There’s Elodie the female main character and I must say I adore Elodie and how much she grows as a person, you really start to see her strength as the chapters go on. In particular I appreciated that none of the characters were perfect, they are all messed up and fighting their demons and I can’t wait to read about what’s going to happen next with these four characters as the ending involves a twist to keep you on your toes.

As a whole, ‘Deprived’ is an action packed read with a menu of trigger warnings, characters that have gone through a lot of trauma and if you’re a fan of dark romance, messed up strong main male characters, graphic detailing, horror/thrillers and a fast paced book then this is the perfect read for you. I can guarantee that you’ll be obsessed, it definitely requires a free day to read because once you start, you can’t stop.

[sineadsreads_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I devoured this, really, really enjoyed it. Deprived follows Elodie who is arranged to marry Caden, a very questionable and borderline morally black MMC. I won’t give any spoilers but Elodie comes from a pretty shit situation & Caden seems to be hell bent on making that worse.

There are two other MMCs, Alfie & Fiz. Alfie very much gives golden retriever vibes but I really think he’s an underdog (I love him very much so) & Fiz is just absolutely unhinged but also seems to be a bit of a softie.

Can you see where this is going? Juicy reverse harem🥵

All the MCs are involved in the underworld, so there’s some dodgy doings going on & our gal Elodie is a hacker so her skills are extremely useful.

And the plot twist towards the end? My neck nearly snapped😱 I was audibly gasping and I honestly can’t wait for book 2 to see where this is going!

Overall, this was a really solid read for me that I thoroughly enjoyed. I really like the writing style and found it flowed together really well. There are multiple POV’s and the way they were written, you could really see each characters personalities shine through during their chapters.

I found it really hard to choose an MMC but there’s something about Caden which was really appealing. He was an absolute arsehole (probably says more about me that he’s my fave, “I can fix him mentality”) but I can definitely see further development of a redemption storyline for him❤️‍🔥

Stars - 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Jenna Forever Booked · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review – Deprived by Jasmine Rae
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Wow… where do I even start with this one?

Deprived is a dark romance reverse harem that completely pulled me in from the first pages. It’s a slow burn (like… SLOW burn), with strong “why choose” vibes, and so many layers of angst, trauma, and tension that had me hooked the entire time. Definitely check trigger warnings before diving in—this one goes deep.

We follow Elodie Valor, and let me just say… I LOVED her. She’s strong, unapologetic, and doesn’t take anything from anyone. A total badass FMC who keeps it real no matter what. Then we have the three MMCs—Caden (her fiancé 👀), Alfie, and Fiz Blackwood—and honestly? It’s way too easy to fall for all of them in different ways.

The banter? Top tier.
The angst and pining? Painfully good.
The spice? Whew 😮‍🔥 I’d give it 🌶️🌶️🌶️… but that’s only because I’m unhinged.

And that plot twist?!?! I did NOT see it coming—but the second it dropped, my brain immediately started spinning with theories for book two. I’m so curious which direction the author is going to take.

This is a solid 5-star read for me. I’m already counting down until I can get my hands on the rest of the trilogy.

If you love dark romance, emotional tension, and complicated relationships… this one is 100% worth the read!

[Gabrielle Tootle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deprived had me hooked pretty much straight away. The whole atmosphere of the book feels tense and messy. Elodie is such an interesting character because there’s clearly so much going on beneath the surface, and the hints about her past just made me want to keep reading to figure her out.

The relationship dynamics were probably my favourite part. Living in the same house as her Fiancè Caden, Alfie, and Fiz creates so much tension, and you can feel it building constantly between all of them. I especially loved Elodie and Alfie together. Their connection feels different from the others - softer at times, but also way more frustrating because he keeps holding himself back. Every scene between them had me wanting him to just give in already.

I also liked that Elodie seems to be completely in denial about what she’s feeling, because it made everything feel more believable and emotional instead of rushed. There’s chemistry everywhere, but there’s also this darker undertone running through the story that keeps you questioning what’s really happened to her.

By the end, I was desperate to know more about Elodie’s past and see how everything is going to play out between the four of them. Definitely a good read if you like dark romance with loads of tension, complicated relationships, and characters that keep you guessing.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

​I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of Deprived, and let me tell you: this book is absolute 🔥. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since I finished, and honestly, I don’t want to.

​This is exactly what a dark romance should be: gritty, witty, and unapologetic. The trigger warning list spans pages for a reason—this story doesn't ease you in; it exposes you from page one. It’s like being plunged into an ice bath (iykyk) and as a relative newcomer to the genre, I can personally attest that this is not for the faint of heart.

​Jasmine Rae’s writing is dangerously addictive. She builds such intense tension and raw emotion that you’ll find yourself screaming at the pages just to vent. The character development, in particular, is where she shines. Initially, the three MMCs are written to be hated; they seem entirely unlikable, leaving you wondering where the "romance" could possibly fit in. But as the story unfolds, your hatred turns to obsession.

​The dynamics between Elodie and the guys are beautifully distinct:
​Alfie steps up as her protector.
​Fiz lives solely to provoke her.
​Caden struggles with the fact that Elodie is everything he thinks he hates, yet everything he clearly needs.

​Then there is Elodie. She is a fighter with a sharp tongue who refuses to be told what to do, regardless of the consequences. Her story is heartbreaking, yet she feels realistic and oddly relatable despite her horrific past. You can’t help but root for her as she learns to embrace her dark side.

​And the spice? Off. The. Charts. Between Fiz’s "introduction," Alfie after the Hunt, and Caden in the changing rooms... my god. If you’re reading this in public, I hope your poker face is top-tier.

​The multi-POV format is the cherry on top, whisking you through an emotional whirlwind that will have you kicking your feet one minute and squealing the next. While the book is character-driven, the world-building around the Blackwoods and the mysterious Drago kept me completely hooked. With a plot twist like that ending, I won’t be happy until I have Book 2 in my hands!

[Lyndsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like things on the darker side? Cos this is dark!
Elodie has lived her entire life in the underworld, under the control of her father.

She is forced into an arranged marriage that will strengthen the family's position and improve their finances. Her fiance? Renowed brute and dealer Caden. Who lives with his cousin and best friend, Fiz and Alfie. She goes from one snake pit to another 🐍

Their marriage, forced on both sides, doesn’t get off to the best start and they both fight like caged animals. The tension is REAL and all four main characters spend a lot of time fighting against feelings they've very much unused to.

I found this to be a real take on dark romance - don't expect lots of humour and go in with your eyes open 👀 And while there is spice, its not sweet and gentle. These people are dark remember!

The book has left me with so many questions and I'm really intrigued to see where she takes this next.

The only thing I would say, given the trauma that Elodie has gone through, 2 weeks seems like quite a short timeline for how far she has come so whilst I understand the Hunt is very close and builds anticipation, it makes elements of it a bit unrealistic.

Thank you so much to Jasmine Rae for an arc copy of this book.

[Marelize Kruger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well… where do I even start with this one?
This has been a wild ride so far—and I mean wild. Elodie has only ever known abuse.

Being sold to the heir of a rival gang honestly just felt like the next step in her life. She does it to pull her piece-of-shit father out of financial ruin, even though she has absolutely nothing and no one. The only person who ever gave her a reason to live—her brother—is gone. After being treated like she’s nothing for so long, Elodie doesn’t even know who she is anymore.

Now let’s talk about the guys: Caden, Fiz, and Alfie. They are morally BLACK, but their personalities come through so clearly on the page—and that’s because they’re written so well. I loved getting the multiple POVs. A lot happens in this book, and none of it is pretty. This is definitely not a story that’s meant to make you feel warm and fuzzy… well, maybe once or twice.

What I loved most is how this book had my brain running wild with theories. I absolutely love when a story does that. Needless to say, I will 100% be signing up for the next two books.

Let me just say this now: Elodie and Caden are going to irritate the SHIT out of you because they are both so incredibly stubborn.

My favorite moment?

Caden: “Elodie, please. Just… stop talking.”

MY HEART.

IYKYK.

[Amy Ambrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve seen the worst in people, there’s nothing left to be afraid of”

I honestly don’t even know where to start with this book.i have been ruined in all the best ways possible
This book was gritty and dark and one hell of a ride.
It has taken Enemies to Lovers to a whole new level, it was packed with pure vitriol and I loved every single second of it.
Elodie, oh my heart breaks for her, she’d been through so much already and then to be thrown to the wolves but my god didn’t she fight. Sassy and sarcastic and she won me over instantly, I love a FMC who refuses to break.
And the boys oh my days, I shouldn’t love them but morally black is my favourite colour🙈We have Caden, Fiz and Alfie and each of their personalities couldn’t be more different and I can’t wait to learn more about their backgrounds in the next book.
The slow burn and the yearning had me reading every possible minute I could and I was absolutely devastated to finish this book and I can’t wait to read book 2🖤

Pleaseeeee read the triggers list, this book explores some fairly dark themes and the characters are Morally Grey/Black for a reason⚠️

[Sophie✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very dark, character-driven reverse harem that absolutely leans into its themes.

The FMC has endured severe abuse before the story even begins, and her trauma shapes everything; her reactions, her mistrust, and her survival instincts. I appreciated that the darkness felt rooted in her character rather than added purely for shock value.

The dynamic with the MMC is tense and layered. He starts from a place of hostility, but once he sees the reality of what she’s been through, there’s a shift that happens and it’s not instant softness, but something more protective and conflicted. That slow tension worked well for me.

The Hunt element is a strong hook and adds real stakes. It gives the story a psychological edge and keeps the atmosphere heavy and intense.

This is not a light read, and it absolutely requires checking content warnings. But if you enjoy dark contemporary romance with morally grey characters, high emotional tension, and a trauma-survival arc, this will likely work for you.

This was genuinely an amazing read, I’d recently been stuck in a book slump but this got me right out of it.

PLEASE READ THE TRIGGER LIST BEFORE READING

[Leigh Norquoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author

“They can break my skin, flesh and bones, but mentally, they can’t break me”

This is my first ARC read and honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better book if I tried!
It’s everything I love and more, granted I wasn’t the biggest fan of slow burn books (this has definitely changed my opinion!) I couldn’t put it down! It genuinely made me feel every emotion!

Elodie is a strong FMC, her life’s been torture but nothing can break her.
Caden, Alfie & Fiz are all twisted in their own way but that didn’t stop me from loving them and adding them to the book boyfriend list 😂
Each of their relationships with Elodie is different and although it’s a rough ride (that’s putting it lightly 😂) & they sometimes have a funny way of showing it, deep down all they want to do is protect her.

This book is dark and gritty, definitely read the trigger warnings. Another warning.. once you start this book, be prepared to not want to put it down 🖤

[Joanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

As dark & deprived as this book was I really enjoyed it & couldn’t put it down. It pains me not being able to start the next part right now!
The absolute hell that the FMC has been through & trauma she carries is gut wrenching (so many tears shed reading this). For her to then have to put up with the MMCs & their behaviour caused by their own trauma & fucked up upbringings is ALOT. However, the different relationships develop, there’s promise and Elodie fights & refuses to break (I love her). This is enemies to lovers on another level. So much of it was uncomfortable but it was also well written, captivating and full of emotional whiplash (that I welcome). Multiple POVs and some insight in to backstories made this book even more engrossing. The 3 guys were awful (cough CADEN cough), but not always. I’m keeping hope for this reverse harem/forced engagement/enemies to lovers set up to get more romantic but still keep the unhinged spice & dynamics going 🖤🌶️🔥 4.5 ⭐️

[Lina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️

first of all, get some hobnobs
second, this is DARK, like check your triggers before reading because this book is unhinged in the best way

there’s 3 MMCs in this book (Caden, Alfie and Fiz) and they’re all completely different and unique but equally amazing, even though you might hate them all at some point

Elodie is literally such a strong and independent FMC that has been through it and i just want to give her a massive hug
the slight differences in the relationship she has with each of the boys is really interesting
the dogs?? i want to give them all pets

this book gave me whiplash in the best way possible
absolutely obsessed with this and the ending?? i need book 2 and 3 ASAP

🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Forced Engagement
🖤 Reverse Harem
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 A craving for hobnobs
🖤 Feminine Rage

thank you so much for the chance to read this ARC!! i’m absolutely obsessed and can’t wait for the rest

[Mandamoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 5-Star ARC Review
Thank you so much to Jasmine for the opportunity to read Deprived. This was an intense, emotional, and unforgettable 5-star read.
The story follows a strong FMC who has endured abuse and control, only to be forced into an arranged marriage with a man just as broken as she is. Their relationship is filled with tension, darkness, and emotional depth, and neither of them is innocent.
The characters felt raw and real, and their dynamic kept me completely hooked from beginning to end. This isn’t a light romance — it’s heavy, emotional, and explores trauma, survival, and strength.
I couldn’t put it down and was thinking about it constantly. This is easily one of the best dark romances I’ve read in a long time.
Make sure to pick up Deprived when it releases on 27th March — a must-read for fans of dark romance and strong female leads.

[Kristian Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book, but these are my own thoughts and feelings.

Unfortunately, this just wasn’t for me. I love dark romance, I love RH, but for whatever reason, I just couldn’t connect to the story at all. I liked Elodie, but I felt as though at moments, there were decisions that were written into the book purely for the sake of drama, and didn’t match with her character as you’re reading and getting to know her.

I loved the dogs in the story, they were my favorite. I wish The Hunt was sort of explored more. It was hinted at so much and then the moment it happened, it was very short lived.

I did enjoy Elodie’s character, aside from the moments mentioned above, but the guys came across extremely immature to me, so I wish their characters had more thoughts and feelings aside from being attracted to Elodie and wanting to have sex with her.

[Katherine Tricker · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! What an absolutely phenomenal read this was.
Elodie's life has been absolutely heartbreaking, but she still has so much fight in her.
Caden, Alfie, and Fez are all such great characters in their own ways. I won't say too much about them as I think it's better if you read for yourself.

I can sense there is so much more to come for all their stories and I am desperate to read it. These characters have so much depth to them.

Jasmine Rae's writing is absolutely brilliant, the story holds a great pace throughout, keeping me locked in and engaged, and command of the English language is fabulous, and teaching me a couple of new words.
I also enjoyed the very British terms that were used at times as it feels quite rare to see them.

If you love Dark Romance you have got to pick this one up. However as always, check your triggers first ❤️

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is Days of Our Lives on a multi week bender. can you say, DRAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMAAAAAA!

Ladies and gentlemen we have trauma on trauma and probably the hottest enemies to lovers, slow burn storyline EVER. I thought this book was going to end me, like that was it, caput. The sheer amount of TENSION in this thing is enough to give you a coronary. I'm talking blood pressure through the roof. And then for it to end like THAT!?!? Right there. Riiiiight when the satisfaction and peace are creeping in..... Insanity.

These are HOT, unhinged MMCs each with their own unique personality, expertly designed to provide maximum pleasure. There's something for everyone in here folks. Our FMC is the embodiment of feminine RAGE and I feel like girl is gonna get her moment. When she does, look the fuck out.

Needless to say, I'm invested. This is book one and there will be three. if this is the start, I fear this collection may be the death of me

it's been an honor to know you all.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! Firstly i am absolutely speechless! I need book 2 right now!

The boys? OML i cannot choose🙈Each man has a little piece of me for them right now and i cannot choose a favourite!

Elodie? Bless her heart and soul i just want to hug her tight!

The plot? Was perfect! I need book 2 right now…matter of a fact give me book 3 as-well while your at it because i don’t think i can read another book yet. My heart, My soul, My head is all with this book and i just cannot move on!

You will literally not be able to put this book down once you start reading it. I am so intrigued to find out what happens next and more about each of these characters.

Everyone needs to read this book! 100% recommend to everyone!

[pages.until.midnight · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was… a lot.

Definitely one of the darker romances I’ve read — not just because of what happens, but because of how psychologically messy it feels.

The dynamic never really settles, and I spent most of the book analysing it instead of fully trusting it. The MMC’s aren’t softened in the usual way, and the shift between them feels fragile rather than fully earned — which somehow made it even more addictive.

Elodie was probably the most interesting part for me. She mirrors whoever she’s with, which makes sense with her background, but also makes everything feel a bit unstable and hard to pin down.

This isn’t a comfortable read and it’s definitely not a clean romance… but I couldn’t put it down.

I don’t fully trust where this is going — but I will be reading book two.

[Liv Dickinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reviewed this book early as an ARC reader and my oh my is it a good book. holy sh!t. i read this like lightning, i lt was so captivating and kept me intrigued at every page. i had a blast reading this!

enemies to lovers
reverse harem
arranged marriage

these are all the tropes readers this day and age are looking for. even if you’re in a slump, this is THE book to pick up!

so dark and enthralling i was genuinely entertained throughout the whole book. i think when it gets published i’ll be having a re read 😝😝😝

massive congrats to the author on writing such a beautifully written book!! can’t wait for more in the upcoming future!!

1000% recommend💕