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Vermilion Mercy: A Dark Romance
He’s been officially dead for six years. She never believed it. So she starts digging into the criminal underworld.
Until he finds her first.
LOVERS TO ENEMIES. DUAL POV. DUAL TIMELINE. MORALLY GREY HERO.
Kiara Soldan is an investigative reporter obsessed with exposing the Vermilion Organization—the most dangerous criminal network in the city. For months, she’s been chasing a ghost. A name whispered in fear.
Kasien Varner was supposed to be dead. Six years gone. Six years buried. Now he’s back—and he’s not the boy she once loved. He’s something darker. Colder. Untouchable.
Dragged into his world of power, violence, and secrets, Kiara finds herself trapped between the truth she’s been chasing and the man she can’t seem to escape.
And walking away might not be an option anymore.
PAPERBACK EDITION COMING SOON.
Until he finds her first.
LOVERS TO ENEMIES. DUAL POV. DUAL TIMELINE. MORALLY GREY HERO.
Kiara Soldan is an investigative reporter obsessed with exposing the Vermilion Organization—the most dangerous criminal network in the city. For months, she’s been chasing a ghost. A name whispered in fear.
Kasien Varner was supposed to be dead. Six years gone. Six years buried. Now he’s back—and he’s not the boy she once loved. He’s something darker. Colder. Untouchable.
Dragged into his world of power, violence, and secrets, Kiara finds herself trapped between the truth she’s been chasing and the man she can’t seem to escape.
And walking away might not be an option anymore.
PAPERBACK EDITION COMING SOON.
421 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
April 12, 2026
Ummmmm I am writing this immediately after finishing and WOW. This book was so good. For starters this WILL have spoilers but I’ll try to keep it limited and I’ll state when the spoiler will start!
Im going to start with im giving this a 4.5 stars For about 60% of this book it was a 5 star read for me. [Spoiler] a threesome happens at this point between the MMC, FMC and another character which just upset me. I feel like that whole situation and the small tid bits leading up to it was unnecessary. I dont mind scenes like this but up until that point i was so obsessed with the love between the MMC and FMC that i was sad that he shared her… :( he did make comments that showed he was jealous but still. It personally became difficult for me to take his love for her seriously. The other thing was i wish we got more. She’s an investigative reporter but we don’t really get much of that or like her actually looking for him. I just wish we got a longer book that allowed for the story to go deeper into that, kasiens adoptive family etc. i would have loved to read more dialogue between kas and kiara before their reconciliation. It just felt quick.
Okay now on to the GOOOOD! Because this book was so so so good! I was in a reading slump and this book was exactly what I needed. This a dark romance with a SWEET MMC. Like holy cow I love how obsessed kasien is. And he’s just so warm and sweet to Kiara. Ahhh. I love them. The plot in this book… towards the end I was getting Edge of Darkness vibes and I loved that series. I liked the contrast of them in their younger years falling inlove vs 6 years later after everything. I believe this is this authors first book?? WOW! It was amazing. By the end I just knew even with the other scene I didn’t love, this is going to go down as one of my best reads this year. It’s a very high 4.5 lol
[SPOILER] I’m a tad bit sad that we didn’t quite get an ending to Kasien and Kiara’s story from their POV. I am however excited to read something in this style. And I am DYING to know more about Natalya and Adrien 😭 I knew from their first few flashback scenes that their story was going to be amazing and heart wrenching .. like wtf?!?!?!
I need to point out how easily cringed out I get by some romance books. This book didn’t not cringe me out ONE BIT. The love between Kiara and Kasien is so pure and I think that’s why [SPOILER] the sharing thing made me so upset because like noooo lol. Anyways even if I knew this was going to happen I still would have read the damn book it’s worth it. I cannot wait for the next book.
I also want to point out some of the sentences and words might feel underdeveloped. I’m not someone that needs fancy words or writing I just need a good story and this was a phenomenal one. I did see some reviews on that on Tik tok and I just want to say I saw that the authors first language is not English. I was even more floored because how do you write a book in a language not native to you and then ontop of that it be THIS GOOD. This is definitely one of my top reads this year.
Im going to start with im giving this a 4.5 stars For about 60% of this book it was a 5 star read for me. [Spoiler] a threesome happens at this point between the MMC, FMC and another character which just upset me. I feel like that whole situation and the small tid bits leading up to it was unnecessary. I dont mind scenes like this but up until that point i was so obsessed with the love between the MMC and FMC that i was sad that he shared her… :( he did make comments that showed he was jealous but still. It personally became difficult for me to take his love for her seriously. The other thing was i wish we got more. She’s an investigative reporter but we don’t really get much of that or like her actually looking for him. I just wish we got a longer book that allowed for the story to go deeper into that, kasiens adoptive family etc. i would have loved to read more dialogue between kas and kiara before their reconciliation. It just felt quick.
Okay now on to the GOOOOD! Because this book was so so so good! I was in a reading slump and this book was exactly what I needed. This a dark romance with a SWEET MMC. Like holy cow I love how obsessed kasien is. And he’s just so warm and sweet to Kiara. Ahhh. I love them. The plot in this book… towards the end I was getting Edge of Darkness vibes and I loved that series. I liked the contrast of them in their younger years falling inlove vs 6 years later after everything. I believe this is this authors first book?? WOW! It was amazing. By the end I just knew even with the other scene I didn’t love, this is going to go down as one of my best reads this year. It’s a very high 4.5 lol
[SPOILER] I’m a tad bit sad that we didn’t quite get an ending to Kasien and Kiara’s story from their POV. I am however excited to read something in this style. And I am DYING to know more about Natalya and Adrien 😭 I knew from their first few flashback scenes that their story was going to be amazing and heart wrenching .. like wtf?!?!?!
I need to point out how easily cringed out I get by some romance books. This book didn’t not cringe me out ONE BIT. The love between Kiara and Kasien is so pure and I think that’s why [SPOILER] the sharing thing made me so upset because like noooo lol. Anyways even if I knew this was going to happen I still would have read the damn book it’s worth it. I cannot wait for the next book.
I also want to point out some of the sentences and words might feel underdeveloped. I’m not someone that needs fancy words or writing I just need a good story and this was a phenomenal one. I did see some reviews on that on Tik tok and I just want to say I saw that the authors first language is not English. I was even more floored because how do you write a book in a language not native to you and then ontop of that it be THIS GOOD. This is definitely one of my top reads this year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2026
Loved it!! 🖤🖤
This is the author's debut novel and I am impressed. Loved the story between Kiara & Kasien, their relationship and how it evolved. You get a real sense of the issues and trauma that Kasien/Natalya & Adrien went through. If you like dark romance with kidnapping, and men that are in tune with their emotions (men that cry but in a manly way), then this is the book for you! 🖤
This is the author's debut novel and I am impressed. Loved the story between Kiara & Kasien, their relationship and how it evolved. You get a real sense of the issues and trauma that Kasien/Natalya & Adrien went through. If you like dark romance with kidnapping, and men that are in tune with their emotions (men that cry but in a manly way), then this is the book for you! 🖤
April 18, 2026
A solid four star read from me, a really good debut book that held my attention.
A few moments of the book I felt were rushed and had a couple of issues but all in all a great read! Full,of tension, as a second chance romance, this ticked all the boxes, leaving me wanting more.
Kiara and Kasien leading different lives but drawn together from a young age. Tragedy happens leaving them torn apart, Kiara finding her path in investigative journalism won't let go of the torment of how she and Kasien got torn apart. She was led to believe he died, but her gut tells her something difgerent.
Angst ridden, and fast paced during the second half of the book led me eating it up! At times full on action, Adrien certainly made me smile. Look forward to the nexr book in the series, totally recommend.
A few moments of the book I felt were rushed and had a couple of issues but all in all a great read! Full,of tension, as a second chance romance, this ticked all the boxes, leaving me wanting more.
Kiara and Kasien leading different lives but drawn together from a young age. Tragedy happens leaving them torn apart, Kiara finding her path in investigative journalism won't let go of the torment of how she and Kasien got torn apart. She was led to believe he died, but her gut tells her something difgerent.
Angst ridden, and fast paced during the second half of the book led me eating it up! At times full on action, Adrien certainly made me smile. Look forward to the nexr book in the series, totally recommend.
April 6, 2026
This was without a doubt a 5 star read for me.
The dedication alone should be enough to convince you to read it!!
The story follows Kasien and Kiara and they had me hooked from the start. Their dynamic is intense, messy, and has that constant push and pull that makes dark romance so addictive. Kasien especially was such a strong character. There’s a lot of darkness around him, but it never feels like it’s there just for shock value. Everything is written with purpose, and the heavier themes add depth to the story without taking over it.
What I really loved about this book was how it kept me on edge. I genuinely didn’t know what was coming next, which made it feel more than just a dark romance. It had that almost thrillery tension to it, and I was constantly trying to figure things out as I was reading.
The structure of the story added so much to that. It moves between past and present so you’re not given everything at once, you’re piecing things together as you go. The flashbacks with Kasien, Natalya and Adrien slowly build the full picture, and it makes the whole story feel more layered and engaging. I really enjoyed that aspect because it kept me fully invested the entire time.
The tension throughout was so well done. There were quite a few moments where I was genuinely on shocked, and the romance had exactly the kind of intensity I look for in a dark romance. And girllll it was spicyyy!
Overall, this was dark, addictive, and really hard to put down. I quite literally flew through it.
If you like dark romance with morally grey characters, strong tension, and a story that keeps you guessing, I’d definitely recommend this.
The dedication alone should be enough to convince you to read it!!
The story follows Kasien and Kiara and they had me hooked from the start. Their dynamic is intense, messy, and has that constant push and pull that makes dark romance so addictive. Kasien especially was such a strong character. There’s a lot of darkness around him, but it never feels like it’s there just for shock value. Everything is written with purpose, and the heavier themes add depth to the story without taking over it.
What I really loved about this book was how it kept me on edge. I genuinely didn’t know what was coming next, which made it feel more than just a dark romance. It had that almost thrillery tension to it, and I was constantly trying to figure things out as I was reading.
The structure of the story added so much to that. It moves between past and present so you’re not given everything at once, you’re piecing things together as you go. The flashbacks with Kasien, Natalya and Adrien slowly build the full picture, and it makes the whole story feel more layered and engaging. I really enjoyed that aspect because it kept me fully invested the entire time.
The tension throughout was so well done. There were quite a few moments where I was genuinely on shocked, and the romance had exactly the kind of intensity I look for in a dark romance. And girllll it was spicyyy!
Overall, this was dark, addictive, and really hard to put down. I quite literally flew through it.
If you like dark romance with morally grey characters, strong tension, and a story that keeps you guessing, I’d definitely recommend this.
April 7, 2026
ARC review*
4⭐️❤️🔥
I absolutely devoured this book. While it it definitely dark romance, it is a moderate level of darkness in my opinion. Always read trigger warnings before reading as there is some potential distressing scenes/topics.
TROPES:
This book was dual pov which I love, and it was also dual timeline which essentially provided a map for their relationship and traumas.
This was also a second chance romance which I am usually not a fan of but the author does it so well that it doesn’t feel like a traditional second chance. I think because so much happens between when they were previously together and the current timeline that it doesn’t feel inauthentic. They don’t just suddenly decide to rekindle, it’s a careful pathway to their reconciliation.
Lastly, the sharing trope was explored once during this book. This is not to my personal tastes, and honestly I didn’t really see a point to it in that it didn’t add anything to the storyline/plot. I feel like it was added for the sake of having a steamy scene which is fine.
CHARACTERS:
The main characters Kiara and Kasien have my heart. Truly. They would genuinely ride or die for eachother, and I felt like they were continuously understanding of eachothers trauma and feelings. I just want to give them both a big hug, specifically Kasien, his case is the perfect example of childhood shaping development and he deserved so much better!!! Kiara is a great MFC, she is relatable, funny, intelligent, and she is strong.
Adrien and Natalya are such interesting side characters, although Adrien is much more present in this book than Natalya. Both are strong characters and I can see them having an interesting storyline, and I think Natalya’s character development will be pivotal to the plot in the next book.
Overall, I had such fun reading this (despite the heaviness of some topics) and it kept me HOOKED. I can’t wait for Adrien and Natalya’s story and to follow the future of Kasien and Kiara! 🩷
4⭐️❤️🔥
I absolutely devoured this book. While it it definitely dark romance, it is a moderate level of darkness in my opinion. Always read trigger warnings before reading as there is some potential distressing scenes/topics.
TROPES:
This book was dual pov which I love, and it was also dual timeline which essentially provided a map for their relationship and traumas.
This was also a second chance romance which I am usually not a fan of but the author does it so well that it doesn’t feel like a traditional second chance. I think because so much happens between when they were previously together and the current timeline that it doesn’t feel inauthentic. They don’t just suddenly decide to rekindle, it’s a careful pathway to their reconciliation.
Lastly, the sharing trope was explored once during this book. This is not to my personal tastes, and honestly I didn’t really see a point to it in that it didn’t add anything to the storyline/plot. I feel like it was added for the sake of having a steamy scene which is fine.
CHARACTERS:
The main characters Kiara and Kasien have my heart. Truly. They would genuinely ride or die for eachother, and I felt like they were continuously understanding of eachothers trauma and feelings. I just want to give them both a big hug, specifically Kasien, his case is the perfect example of childhood shaping development and he deserved so much better!!! Kiara is a great MFC, she is relatable, funny, intelligent, and she is strong.
Adrien and Natalya are such interesting side characters, although Adrien is much more present in this book than Natalya. Both are strong characters and I can see them having an interesting storyline, and I think Natalya’s character development will be pivotal to the plot in the next book.
Overall, I had such fun reading this (despite the heaviness of some topics) and it kept me HOOKED. I can’t wait for Adrien and Natalya’s story and to follow the future of Kasien and Kiara! 🩷
May 3, 2026
I needed time to process everything but all I can say is that I shamelessly devoured this book. Kas, you are my new, favorite fictional man (with Adrien on the second place because he deserves it - even though he was this close 🤏🏻 to stealing the spot). there wasn't even a single thing I didn't like about this book, it got me hooked from the very beginning and I didn't want to let go of it.
the flashbacks were everything, I loved to see how their story began and how he felt, the way he didn't know how to act around her yet he did everything for her. Kasien is the definition of a (dark) simp and I'm living for it.
"you know, you could say something about how beautiful I look right now,"
"those words are overused and I could never describe how I see you through my eyes, Kiara." STOPPPPPP.
Kasien-"I'm keeping her favorite book even after 6 years"-Varner. Kasien-"I'd rather get punished by my stupid mOm than let someone else but you touch me"-Varner.
even when he was supposed to hate her...he couldn't bring himself to do it. he fought so hard to keep his control and not let his guard down yet he failed again and again because she's the only one who could make him surrender, OCD and all that. (can we also talk about the fact that's he's a biker???? and not only he lets her drive his car, but his bike too EVEN THO SHE DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO???)
those being said, I can't wait to get my hands on the second book cause the cliffhanger made me spiral (also because I really, REALLY want more of Adrien and Nat - please, we love a yearner and I feel we have so much to see).
definitely 5/5. will probably keep rereading it. A LOT.
the flashbacks were everything, I loved to see how their story began and how he felt, the way he didn't know how to act around her yet he did everything for her. Kasien is the definition of a (dark) simp and I'm living for it.
"you know, you could say something about how beautiful I look right now,"
"those words are overused and I could never describe how I see you through my eyes, Kiara." STOPPPPPP.
Kasien-"I'm keeping her favorite book even after 6 years"-Varner. Kasien-"I'd rather get punished by my stupid mOm than let someone else but you touch me"-Varner.
even when he was supposed to hate her...he couldn't bring himself to do it. he fought so hard to keep his control and not let his guard down yet he failed again and again because she's the only one who could make him surrender, OCD and all that. (can we also talk about the fact that's he's a biker???? and not only he lets her drive his car, but his bike too EVEN THO SHE DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO???)
those being said, I can't wait to get my hands on the second book cause the cliffhanger made me spiral (also because I really, REALLY want more of Adrien and Nat - please, we love a yearner and I feel we have so much to see).
definitely 5/5. will probably keep rereading it. A LOT.
April 15, 2026
ARC review:
When you guys know me, you know it takes a LOT in me to give a book 5 stars. But this was without a doubt a 5 star read for me!!
The second I saw the dedication, I knew I would be HOOKED on Kasien and Kiaras' story. And what can I say? I was hooked! The way the story kept unfolding in each chapter. The way I was screaming, crying, sliding down the wall, pacing in my room because it felt like I was in their world and feeling everything the characters went through.
Kasien and Kiara had me at the edge of my bed because of their dynamic. Them pushing each other away because of the constant darkness that was crawling around them. But them trying to still pull each other in made this so real.
The last 100 pages had me in utterly disbelief, and I did NOT see it coming. Kasien, Kiara, Natalya, and Adrien, you guys will have my heart forever!
And last but not least. Thank you to the author for ruining me (in the best way possible) 🖤
Ps: The bench press scene and the scene with both of them will live from now on rent-free in my head. And I'm not complaining 👀 And on top of that, the first snow fall of the year and Wuthering Heights will have a different/special meaning to me now.
When you guys know me, you know it takes a LOT in me to give a book 5 stars. But this was without a doubt a 5 star read for me!!
The second I saw the dedication, I knew I would be HOOKED on Kasien and Kiaras' story. And what can I say? I was hooked! The way the story kept unfolding in each chapter. The way I was screaming, crying, sliding down the wall, pacing in my room because it felt like I was in their world and feeling everything the characters went through.
Kasien and Kiara had me at the edge of my bed because of their dynamic. Them pushing each other away because of the constant darkness that was crawling around them. But them trying to still pull each other in made this so real.
The last 100 pages had me in utterly disbelief, and I did NOT see it coming. Kasien, Kiara, Natalya, and Adrien, you guys will have my heart forever!
And last but not least. Thank you to the author for ruining me (in the best way possible) 🖤
Ps: The bench press scene and the scene with both of them will live from now on rent-free in my head. And I'm not complaining 👀 And on top of that, the first snow fall of the year and Wuthering Heights will have a different/special meaning to me now.
April 5, 2026
If I could convince anyone to read any book it would be this one
I was so speechless after reading this I don’t think my review could do it justice. Kasien and Kiaras story is written so beautifully you feel every emotion as it was intended. The flashbacks were so in depth I loved how it all comes together. Kasien is morally grey but it’s a fitting title for him with everything he experiences you can’t help but feel for him. There was so much detail in this book from the tougher topics to the banter it was written perfectly! I loved reading Adrien and kiaras friendship blossoming. I also loved how deep kasien and Adriens friendship was, it’s not often males are written to have such intense bonds with anyone other than the fmc so I really thought this was an amazing touch. I don’t think I’ll ever be over this book & I think Kasien and Kiara could be one of my new favourites! I devoured this book in one day, I am so ready for book 2! Oh and added bonus the 🌶️ scenes are 🔥🔥
I was so speechless after reading this I don’t think my review could do it justice. Kasien and Kiaras story is written so beautifully you feel every emotion as it was intended. The flashbacks were so in depth I loved how it all comes together. Kasien is morally grey but it’s a fitting title for him with everything he experiences you can’t help but feel for him. There was so much detail in this book from the tougher topics to the banter it was written perfectly! I loved reading Adrien and kiaras friendship blossoming. I also loved how deep kasien and Adriens friendship was, it’s not often males are written to have such intense bonds with anyone other than the fmc so I really thought this was an amazing touch. I don’t think I’ll ever be over this book & I think Kasien and Kiara could be one of my new favourites! I devoured this book in one day, I am so ready for book 2! Oh and added bonus the 🌶️ scenes are 🔥🔥
April 7, 2026
ARC READ- I’m not even gonna lie… Vermillion Mercy had me HOOKED from the first chapter and I did not want to put it down 😭
It’s such an easy read but at the same time?? It’s DARK. Like actually dark. This is not a cute fluffy romance so please check the triggers because some of it is heavy as hell ⚠️
Spice level- 🌶🌶🌶
The dual POV made it so much better—I love getting both sides and the background story just added to everything. And the dynamic??? Elite. Proper grumpy/sunshine energy 😩 The FMC is witty, funny and a bit nippy which I loved, and the MMC… yeah he’s unhinged 🥴 He falls first, falls HARD, and is literally obsessed with her. Possessive, predatory vibes, “touch her and you die” energy the whole way through 🔥
But let’s be real—this is NOT a healthy romance. It’s toxic, obsessive, and uncomfortable at times. There’s manipulation, captivity, violence… all of it. And somehow it still had me completely addicted?? 🫠
I actually loved the contrast between the softer, almost sweet moments and the darker criminal underworld side. It made everything hit harder emotionally. Some parts were genuinely devastating 💔 and those time jumps just made it worse in the best way.
This book had me stressed, emotional, and fully invested. I didn’t want it to end 😭
Easy 5⭐️ for me. If you like dark, toxic, obsessive romance… you NEED to read this 👀🔥
It’s such an easy read but at the same time?? It’s DARK. Like actually dark. This is not a cute fluffy romance so please check the triggers because some of it is heavy as hell ⚠️
Spice level- 🌶🌶🌶
The dual POV made it so much better—I love getting both sides and the background story just added to everything. And the dynamic??? Elite. Proper grumpy/sunshine energy 😩 The FMC is witty, funny and a bit nippy which I loved, and the MMC… yeah he’s unhinged 🥴 He falls first, falls HARD, and is literally obsessed with her. Possessive, predatory vibes, “touch her and you die” energy the whole way through 🔥
But let’s be real—this is NOT a healthy romance. It’s toxic, obsessive, and uncomfortable at times. There’s manipulation, captivity, violence… all of it. And somehow it still had me completely addicted?? 🫠
I actually loved the contrast between the softer, almost sweet moments and the darker criminal underworld side. It made everything hit harder emotionally. Some parts were genuinely devastating 💔 and those time jumps just made it worse in the best way.
This book had me stressed, emotional, and fully invested. I didn’t want it to end 😭
Easy 5⭐️ for me. If you like dark, toxic, obsessive romance… you NEED to read this 👀🔥
April 6, 2026
Think insatiable if it had a baby, and grew into an even better version of its parent.
This follows Kasien and Kiara, where it’s clear that there has been something that went down between them both. Kas is “dead”, Kiara isn’t convinced.
This begins with a few flashbacks to give us some insight into the character’s backgrounds and past which I think is done so beautifully. Kas’s life is one of aggression and lack of choices, which builds such a harrowing connection for the reader.
There is spice in here, with it ramping up just after the 50%? Mark I believe, with a bit of a MFM (spoiler) scene. The spice, however, isn’t excessive to the story and this ends on a beautiful cliffhanger almost? Passing the torch from our FMC and MMC to the newer characters for Vermilion Vows! (Adrien and Natalya) PS: Adrien is AHMAZING!!
This follows Kasien and Kiara, where it’s clear that there has been something that went down between them both. Kas is “dead”, Kiara isn’t convinced.
This begins with a few flashbacks to give us some insight into the character’s backgrounds and past which I think is done so beautifully. Kas’s life is one of aggression and lack of choices, which builds such a harrowing connection for the reader.
There is spice in here, with it ramping up just after the 50%? Mark I believe, with a bit of a MFM (spoiler) scene. The spice, however, isn’t excessive to the story and this ends on a beautiful cliffhanger almost? Passing the torch from our FMC and MMC to the newer characters for Vermilion Vows! (Adrien and Natalya) PS: Adrien is AHMAZING!!
April 6, 2026
Plot 5⭐
Character Development 5⭐
Spice 5 ⭐
Storytelling ⭐
I had the honor to be one of her ARC readers🖤
🔴SPOILERS BELOW 🔴
The Book made me feel all the feelings I could feel.
We meet Kasien and Kiara, who we witness fall in love with the most beautiful and innocent way. The writing is so beautiful, that I actually got butterflies and took me back to my teen years. The first look, the first hand holding, the first kiss.... It was simply divine.
The Story had two timelines, the past and the present which is 6 years later. This absolutely wrecked and healed my soul in the most wonderful way. We see them fall in love and crazy about each other and then at the present we see them distant and cold. This was an emotional rollercoaster 😭
The story is very interesting and original in my opinion. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. Again, the writing made me feel like I was watching a movie.
All the characters are unique in their own way, very well written.
Last but NOT least.. The Spice 🥵
5 out of 5 for me, not for the number of the spicy scenes, but for what happens in them.
The scene with Andrien and Kasien. OMG.
P.S. FINALLY a book which the FMC is not a virgin!!
Can't wait for the second book!
Well Done Alexandra, you beautiful talent !!
Character Development 5⭐
Spice 5 ⭐
Storytelling ⭐
I had the honor to be one of her ARC readers🖤
🔴SPOILERS BELOW 🔴
The Book made me feel all the feelings I could feel.
We meet Kasien and Kiara, who we witness fall in love with the most beautiful and innocent way. The writing is so beautiful, that I actually got butterflies and took me back to my teen years. The first look, the first hand holding, the first kiss.... It was simply divine.
The Story had two timelines, the past and the present which is 6 years later. This absolutely wrecked and healed my soul in the most wonderful way. We see them fall in love and crazy about each other and then at the present we see them distant and cold. This was an emotional rollercoaster 😭
The story is very interesting and original in my opinion. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. Again, the writing made me feel like I was watching a movie.
All the characters are unique in their own way, very well written.
Last but NOT least.. The Spice 🥵
5 out of 5 for me, not for the number of the spicy scenes, but for what happens in them.
The scene with Andrien and Kasien. OMG.
P.S. FINALLY a book which the FMC is not a virgin!!
Can't wait for the second book!
Well Done Alexandra, you beautiful talent !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2026
⭐️5 🌶️4
”What ever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
The mention of Wuthering Heights in this book already eluded to what I’d be in store for. The amount of emotion exuded in this book from these characters I was so attached from the very beginning. All my babies need a hug😪.
Kasien and Kiara. Dark and light. Night and day; yet so perfect for one another. Once I found out why she left in that moment I probably would have as well I’m human, but to realize by leaving you’d lose your person for years thinking they’re dead yet knowing in your heart they aren’t😩.
Then my baby Adrien needs to protected at all cost. I cannot wait for his and Natalya book. This story had me shocked at every angle like nothing happened that I expected.
The best recommendation TikTok has ever given me🫶🏾
”What ever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
The mention of Wuthering Heights in this book already eluded to what I’d be in store for. The amount of emotion exuded in this book from these characters I was so attached from the very beginning. All my babies need a hug😪.
Kasien and Kiara. Dark and light. Night and day; yet so perfect for one another. Once I found out why she left in that moment I probably would have as well I’m human, but to realize by leaving you’d lose your person for years thinking they’re dead yet knowing in your heart they aren’t😩.
Then my baby Adrien needs to protected at all cost. I cannot wait for his and Natalya book. This story had me shocked at every angle like nothing happened that I expected.
The best recommendation TikTok has ever given me🫶🏾
April 6, 2026
Kaisen and Kiara are obsessively perfect and psychotically beautiful.
I absolutely loved this book! The dual timeline and the storyline made it so compelling and I am so completely obsessed with them as a couple. Honestly such a good story and a 5 star dark romance. An incredible debut and very excited for the next one.
I absolutely loved this book! The dual timeline and the storyline made it so compelling and I am so completely obsessed with them as a couple. Honestly such a good story and a 5 star dark romance. An incredible debut and very excited for the next one.
April 8, 2026
I’d say this book will appeal to fans of Insatiable — I can definitely see some similarities. But honestly, I’m not even sure how to rate this story. 🤔
The whole time I was thinking I’d give it 2-3 stars, but then the ending…?
I was really looking forward to this book. I saw it a few times on TikTok and was genuinely excited, but it ended up being a bit disappointing. The idea of switching between past and present is interesting, but after a few chapters I just wanted to know what was happening in the present, not what happened before. Some of the past chapters felt so unnecessary. And even the present timeline at the beginning was slow — she was just locked in a room and nothing was really happening. I kept waiting for at least some proper conversation between them, but instead it switched back to the past again, which was frustrating.😑
I also wanted to see at least a little bit of how she was looking for him — how she was trying to figure things out or put things together.
There were also a few things I honestly didn’t understand. For example, if Adrien and Kasien were declared dead, why didn’t they just leave? Why stay in that “business”? And how is it possible they had so little information about his sister. And why were they lying to her too? I don’t know, some parts just didn’t make sense to me.
As for the relationship between Kasien and Kiara… at the beginning it was actually good, some parts of the story kept me interested. In the past, they were actually sweet together, but in the present… I’m honestly getting tired of characters who are incapable of having a normal conversation. 😠 The spicy scenes were really good — the author knows how to write them — but at some point I just wanted actual communication instead of more spice. Towards the end these scenes also started to feel repetitive, and I even felt like skipping some parts.
And the ending… all the action scenes are written in such a strange way. It’s always quick — like a shot to the head and that’s it. It felt very trivial. And I’m also a bit disappointed about whose perspective the next book will follow… I’m not a fan of switching main characters like that.
Overall, the story did catch my attention. It wasn’t bad, but I expected much much more.
The whole time I was thinking I’d give it 2-3 stars, but then the ending…?
I was really looking forward to this book. I saw it a few times on TikTok and was genuinely excited, but it ended up being a bit disappointing. The idea of switching between past and present is interesting, but after a few chapters I just wanted to know what was happening in the present, not what happened before. Some of the past chapters felt so unnecessary. And even the present timeline at the beginning was slow — she was just locked in a room and nothing was really happening. I kept waiting for at least some proper conversation between them, but instead it switched back to the past again, which was frustrating.😑
I also wanted to see at least a little bit of how she was looking for him — how she was trying to figure things out or put things together.
There were also a few things I honestly didn’t understand. For example, if Adrien and Kasien were declared dead, why didn’t they just leave? Why stay in that “business”? And how is it possible they had so little information about his sister. And why were they lying to her too? I don’t know, some parts just didn’t make sense to me.
As for the relationship between Kasien and Kiara… at the beginning it was actually good, some parts of the story kept me interested. In the past, they were actually sweet together, but in the present… I’m honestly getting tired of characters who are incapable of having a normal conversation. 😠 The spicy scenes were really good — the author knows how to write them — but at some point I just wanted actual communication instead of more spice. Towards the end these scenes also started to feel repetitive, and I even felt like skipping some parts.
And the ending… all the action scenes are written in such a strange way. It’s always quick — like a shot to the head and that’s it. It felt very trivial. And I’m also a bit disappointed about whose perspective the next book will follow… I’m not a fan of switching main characters like that.
Overall, the story did catch my attention. It wasn’t bad, but I expected much much more.
April 23, 2026
Absolutely amazing. One of the best books I have read in an extremely long time.
April 7, 2026
Flashbacks were so unnecessary and felt like word fillers. Didn't contribute at all to the story-line neither for the relationship between the MCs nor their individual perspectives. Didn't lead anywhere with them, just there to be.
So, they had a threesome kind of and then were all lovey-dovey in the kitchen and then the fact was never again acknowledged by the characters?
Clearly Adrien's love interest is Natalya but did something with Kiara just like that? Didn't fit to the "story-line" at all.
It felt unnecessary because at the end of the day it didn't go anywhere. I felt like that was added just to fit the smutt genre of it all. Not because it was an awakening or like an urge that was building up or even a burst of the moment desire. I felt like it was two-dimensional and apathetic.
I felt like the story-line just had a hundred different ideas going simultaneously and of which none came to a complete closure. So many paths that this could take and at the end it took none, there was not path to this story. It felt flat. I would prefer that it had a formula story-line (Introduction - Mountain - Arc - Valley - Conclusion - Closure), rather than a failed attempt to make it groundbreaking, and instead having a confused story-line.
Very disappointing.
So, they had a threesome kind of and then were all lovey-dovey in the kitchen and then the fact was never again acknowledged by the characters?
Clearly Adrien's love interest is Natalya but did something with Kiara just like that? Didn't fit to the "story-line" at all.
It felt unnecessary because at the end of the day it didn't go anywhere. I felt like that was added just to fit the smutt genre of it all. Not because it was an awakening or like an urge that was building up or even a burst of the moment desire. I felt like it was two-dimensional and apathetic.
I felt like the story-line just had a hundred different ideas going simultaneously and of which none came to a complete closure. So many paths that this could take and at the end it took none, there was not path to this story. It felt flat. I would prefer that it had a formula story-line (Introduction - Mountain - Arc - Valley - Conclusion - Closure), rather than a failed attempt to make it groundbreaking, and instead having a confused story-line.
Very disappointing.
April 13, 2026
I need the second book immediately😭
I went from been unsure, to crying, to praying for all 4 to be together again.
I actually couldn't put the book down, it had me hooked. I cannot wait to read book 2.
I went from been unsure, to crying, to praying for all 4 to be together again.
I actually couldn't put the book down, it had me hooked. I cannot wait to read book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2026
5/5⭐️
We get to follow Kasien and Kiara through their whole relationship, they met when they were teens, they shared a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. And then they were ripped apart, but Kiara never stopped looking for Kasien.
This book is absolutely brilliant. The way the author writes is amazing, and I love that the book mixes the timelines. When I finished, I was totally wrecked, the emotions are so high and the writing makes you feel it along with the characters. If you’re going to read one new release this spring, pick this one and you won’t be disappointed. It will break your heart, it will heal your inner scars, and it will give you hope ❤️🔥
*ARC review* Thank you so much to the author for giving me opportunity to read this! 🫶🏼
We get to follow Kasien and Kiara through their whole relationship, they met when they were teens, they shared a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. And then they were ripped apart, but Kiara never stopped looking for Kasien.
This book is absolutely brilliant. The way the author writes is amazing, and I love that the book mixes the timelines. When I finished, I was totally wrecked, the emotions are so high and the writing makes you feel it along with the characters. If you’re going to read one new release this spring, pick this one and you won’t be disappointed. It will break your heart, it will heal your inner scars, and it will give you hope ❤️🔥
*ARC review* Thank you so much to the author for giving me opportunity to read this! 🫶🏼
May 11, 2026
Review of advanced copy reserved by author
4.2 stars out of 5! Kasien and Kiara have my heart as a couple! This book was well written and the plot was 🔥. Can’t wait for the second book in the series 🤭
4.2 stars out of 5! Kasien and Kiara have my heart as a couple! This book was well written and the plot was 🔥. Can’t wait for the second book in the series 🤭
April 8, 2026
I don’t even know where to begin with this book—other than the fact that it absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way.
I’m not okay. Like genuinely not okay after this book.
WHO allowed this mafia romance to exist??? Because it just emotionally destroyed me and I said thank you.
This mafia romance dives deep into the criminal underworld with a story that feels both brutal and intimate. The dual timelines were executed flawlessly, slowly unraveling a past that made every present-day moment hit harder. Watching the relationship evolve from friends to lovers to enemies to lovers again ?! It was pure emotional chaos—and I mean that as the highest praise.
The MMC? Broken. Quiet. Dangerous. Completely broken in that quiet, devastating way that makes you want to both hug him and shake him to finally wake up. He’s the kind of man that doesn’t say much but when he does it HURTS.
And the MFC? Emotionally reckless, and impossible not to love. She makes messy decisions, she feels everything too deeply, and somehow that just makes her more real. She runs straight into chaos—and I loved her for it.
And the side character?? I’m obsessed. He brought warmth, humor, and that “found family… but make it complicated” vibe that made the story so much better but gave all the darkness too. He’s literally die for. He’s messy and tottaly unhinged. He would do ANYTHING and absolutely EVERYTHING for the people he loves. I just can’t wait to finally read his book, since the next one is about him. Counting the days until it comes out.
But let’s talk about THAT plot twist. I genuinely had to put the damn phone down and stare at the wall. Like, what do you mean? And the ending?? Not quite a full cliffhanger, but enough to leave me desperate, hollow, and already begging for more. Please gurl sit down and work on it because I feel like I’m going insane.
I devoured this in less than a day and now I’m sitting here thinking about my life choices.
This book consumed me. It broke me. And I would absolutely let it do it all over again. ✨🫶🏻
I’m not okay. Like genuinely not okay after this book.
WHO allowed this mafia romance to exist??? Because it just emotionally destroyed me and I said thank you.
This mafia romance dives deep into the criminal underworld with a story that feels both brutal and intimate. The dual timelines were executed flawlessly, slowly unraveling a past that made every present-day moment hit harder. Watching the relationship evolve from friends to lovers to enemies to lovers again ?! It was pure emotional chaos—and I mean that as the highest praise.
The MMC? Broken. Quiet. Dangerous. Completely broken in that quiet, devastating way that makes you want to both hug him and shake him to finally wake up. He’s the kind of man that doesn’t say much but when he does it HURTS.
And the MFC? Emotionally reckless, and impossible not to love. She makes messy decisions, she feels everything too deeply, and somehow that just makes her more real. She runs straight into chaos—and I loved her for it.
And the side character?? I’m obsessed. He brought warmth, humor, and that “found family… but make it complicated” vibe that made the story so much better but gave all the darkness too. He’s literally die for. He’s messy and tottaly unhinged. He would do ANYTHING and absolutely EVERYTHING for the people he loves. I just can’t wait to finally read his book, since the next one is about him. Counting the days until it comes out.
But let’s talk about THAT plot twist. I genuinely had to put the damn phone down and stare at the wall. Like, what do you mean? And the ending?? Not quite a full cliffhanger, but enough to leave me desperate, hollow, and already begging for more. Please gurl sit down and work on it because I feel like I’m going insane.
I devoured this in less than a day and now I’m sitting here thinking about my life choices.
This book consumed me. It broke me. And I would absolutely let it do it all over again. ✨🫶🏻
April 10, 2026
I loved this book as soon as I started, literally from the dedication…
The writing is amazing and honestly was such an easy read, even as someone who hasn’t managed to finish a book in the past months, I finished this in 2 days!!
The author clearly knows how to write a morally grey MMC. The book flips from past to present and back story of it all made me feel so much more connected to him and actually route for him, which is something I find a lot of dark romance authors struggle with as they make the actions almost unforgivable. The past to present POV is something I normally struggle with, and this book is very heavy with it (flipping nearly every chapter - especially at the start), but in regards to this book is was so well written that I actually looked forward to each part, rather than waiting for it to finish to get back to the tense I enjoyed more.
Maybe I’m a very critical reader… normally I find the FMC to be very unlikeable, but once again Alexandra has managed to actually make me like one ⭐️. Kiara is honestly a pretty badass character. She is emotional but also has her witts about her, which is something I truly appreciate.
The plot is similar to other dark romance novels - i think it’s hard to really make a UNIQUE dark romance novel, but this book could definitely steal my heart - if Adrian hadn’t already stollen it 🙈
Now the spice… (SPOILER WARNING). The MMF scene was something I had hoped for but I wasn’t 100% sure what direction the book was going. Kaisen seemed so protective off of Kiara that a MMF scene wasn’t something I expected. Let me tell you, YES. That scene alone would make anyone want to keep reading 🙈, and trust me when I say it was only the start…
This book had me hooked from start to end (even staying up far too late before a night shift to finish it…). Highly recommend it and I can’t wait for book 2!!! xx
The writing is amazing and honestly was such an easy read, even as someone who hasn’t managed to finish a book in the past months, I finished this in 2 days!!
The author clearly knows how to write a morally grey MMC. The book flips from past to present and back story of it all made me feel so much more connected to him and actually route for him, which is something I find a lot of dark romance authors struggle with as they make the actions almost unforgivable. The past to present POV is something I normally struggle with, and this book is very heavy with it (flipping nearly every chapter - especially at the start), but in regards to this book is was so well written that I actually looked forward to each part, rather than waiting for it to finish to get back to the tense I enjoyed more.
Maybe I’m a very critical reader… normally I find the FMC to be very unlikeable, but once again Alexandra has managed to actually make me like one ⭐️. Kiara is honestly a pretty badass character. She is emotional but also has her witts about her, which is something I truly appreciate.
The plot is similar to other dark romance novels - i think it’s hard to really make a UNIQUE dark romance novel, but this book could definitely steal my heart - if Adrian hadn’t already stollen it 🙈
Now the spice… (SPOILER WARNING). The MMF scene was something I had hoped for but I wasn’t 100% sure what direction the book was going. Kaisen seemed so protective off of Kiara that a MMF scene wasn’t something I expected. Let me tell you, YES. That scene alone would make anyone want to keep reading 🙈, and trust me when I say it was only the start…
This book had me hooked from start to end (even staying up far too late before a night shift to finish it…). Highly recommend it and I can’t wait for book 2!!! xx
April 8, 2026
For a debut novel it’s really great.
The writing was good, I liked the characters. The MMC as a teenager falling in love with the FMC was so freaking cute cos he wasn’t a player and was so sweet and pure for all the shit he went through.
There were a few bits I wished were different. I wish the FMC didn’t give in so easily when they reunited after 6 years. How did the MMC manage to have sex with other women during the separation if he couldn’t get turned on by anyone other than the FMC as a teenager due to being SA’d? I guess maybe since he wasn’t being pimped out to these women it may have felt different for him.
Where was the MMC and his sister originally from? It’s only briefly mentioned their dad died during a war and their mum was toured and killed in front of them. But what war? What country? I guessed Russia but idk. What was the story behind the FMC and her mum? Didn’t really expand on that but it seemed there was tension maybe during her teenage years since her dad left and her mum was a single parent? Loads of stuff mentioned just once then never again but I wanted more details for a better understanding.
When they go to the ball how did the FMC and Adrien get attacked if there was body guards watching them? They were suppose to be protected but the one guard with the FMC is taken out but it’s never mentioned about the rest of the guards.
Eager to know what happens to this couple in the next book as the ending was left unfinished for the next couple. Although if I were Nat I would be so angry at Adrien for hooking up with the FMC considering she is Nats friend and also Nats brothers gf…
The writing was good, I liked the characters. The MMC as a teenager falling in love with the FMC was so freaking cute cos he wasn’t a player and was so sweet and pure for all the shit he went through.
There were a few bits I wished were different. I wish the FMC didn’t give in so easily when they reunited after 6 years. How did the MMC manage to have sex with other women during the separation if he couldn’t get turned on by anyone other than the FMC as a teenager due to being SA’d? I guess maybe since he wasn’t being pimped out to these women it may have felt different for him.
Where was the MMC and his sister originally from? It’s only briefly mentioned their dad died during a war and their mum was toured and killed in front of them. But what war? What country? I guessed Russia but idk. What was the story behind the FMC and her mum? Didn’t really expand on that but it seemed there was tension maybe during her teenage years since her dad left and her mum was a single parent? Loads of stuff mentioned just once then never again but I wanted more details for a better understanding.
When they go to the ball how did the FMC and Adrien get attacked if there was body guards watching them? They were suppose to be protected but the one guard with the FMC is taken out but it’s never mentioned about the rest of the guards.
Eager to know what happens to this couple in the next book as the ending was left unfinished for the next couple. Although if I were Nat I would be so angry at Adrien for hooking up with the FMC considering she is Nats friend and also Nats brothers gf…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
h o l y s h i t.
That ENDING.
The pain that Kasien went through. What he watched happen to his mom then he just wanted a happy family for him and his sister. He really knew from the get go they were wrong but he just didnt know how bad.
They tried to make that man a monster and yet his heart was still there.
And Adrien, using him to torment Kasien so he would fall in line. I love how they became bestfriends even through all the shit they endured.
And OMG the sex scene with the 3 of them 😍 it was to die for!! It was fucking hot.
I loved how cheeky Adrien was, no matter how much he wanted to give up.
I just loved how after 6 years Kiara never stopped fighting and trying. No matter how many dark secrets she found she knew she loved him and knew he was alive. It was clever but not clever enough for a girl on a mission to find her man 🤣.
But that ending. Jesus!!!! All this time they thought Nat was safe and she was with the devil. I didnt see that coming. I honestly thought it was some girl made to look like her. And then a double blow in the face of the actually ending on a cliffhanger fuuuuuuck😅 I NEED to know what's going to happen. There's obviously something planted in her head, will she ever become normal. Will she even forgive her brother and Adrien. Ahhhh im screaming theres too many questions and not enough answers 😩😅.
Your writing completely sucked me in from the get go. And going from past to present just fitted this book perfectly because it shows you why things happened.
I was so egar to get to the next page to find out what happened!!!
That ENDING.
The pain that Kasien went through. What he watched happen to his mom then he just wanted a happy family for him and his sister. He really knew from the get go they were wrong but he just didnt know how bad.
They tried to make that man a monster and yet his heart was still there.
And Adrien, using him to torment Kasien so he would fall in line. I love how they became bestfriends even through all the shit they endured.
And OMG the sex scene with the 3 of them 😍 it was to die for!! It was fucking hot.
I loved how cheeky Adrien was, no matter how much he wanted to give up.
I just loved how after 6 years Kiara never stopped fighting and trying. No matter how many dark secrets she found she knew she loved him and knew he was alive. It was clever but not clever enough for a girl on a mission to find her man 🤣.
But that ending. Jesus!!!! All this time they thought Nat was safe and she was with the devil. I didnt see that coming. I honestly thought it was some girl made to look like her. And then a double blow in the face of the actually ending on a cliffhanger fuuuuuuck😅 I NEED to know what's going to happen. There's obviously something planted in her head, will she ever become normal. Will she even forgive her brother and Adrien. Ahhhh im screaming theres too many questions and not enough answers 😩😅.
Your writing completely sucked me in from the get go. And going from past to present just fitted this book perfectly because it shows you why things happened.
I was so egar to get to the next page to find out what happened!!!
April 6, 2026
I absolutely loved this dark romance novel. From the very first page, I was completely hooked, it had me captivated right from the beginning and never let go. As someone who genuinely enjoys dark romance, this book delivered exactly what I was hoping for and more.
The writing style is beautiful and flows effortlessly, making it incredibly easy to read. Even though I usually read quite slowly, I found myself flying through the pages because I simply couldn’t put it down. The pacing felt just right, constantly pulling me deeper into the story without ever feeling rushed or dragged out.
One of my favorite aspects was the use of alternating pov’s. It added so much depth to the story and allowed me to connect with the characters on a much more emotional level. The time jumps between past and present were also done really well, they revealed important details that made everything even more intense and meaningful.
The characters themselves were amazing, complex, compelling, and incredibly well written. I felt deeply invested in their journeys, their struggles, and their emotions. Speaking of emotions, this book is full of them. It made me feel so much, from tension and heartbreak to passion and vulnerability.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotional, and beautifully written dark romance that I couldn’t get enough of. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves this genre.
The writing style is beautiful and flows effortlessly, making it incredibly easy to read. Even though I usually read quite slowly, I found myself flying through the pages because I simply couldn’t put it down. The pacing felt just right, constantly pulling me deeper into the story without ever feeling rushed or dragged out.
One of my favorite aspects was the use of alternating pov’s. It added so much depth to the story and allowed me to connect with the characters on a much more emotional level. The time jumps between past and present were also done really well, they revealed important details that made everything even more intense and meaningful.
The characters themselves were amazing, complex, compelling, and incredibly well written. I felt deeply invested in their journeys, their struggles, and their emotions. Speaking of emotions, this book is full of them. It made me feel so much, from tension and heartbreak to passion and vulnerability.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotional, and beautifully written dark romance that I couldn’t get enough of. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves this genre.
April 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We follow Kasien and Kiara throughout their entire relationship — from the moment they meet as teenagers to everything they go through together and apart. What makes this book so powerful to me is how you’re taken along their full life journey. You don’t just feel their love, but also everything they each experience individually and how it shapes them.
It tells the story of a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love that gets torn apart, yet Kiara never stops searching for Kasien. That underlying sense of hope is always present, which makes it even more emotional.
The writing is beautiful and immersive, and I loved how the timelines are woven together. It adds so much depth and slowly reveals the full picture, making you feel more and more connected to the characters.
When I finished the book, I was completely wrecked. The emotions run so high and are written in such a way that you feel them right along with the characters. At the same time, there’s something healing about it — it breaks your heart, but also gives you hope.
This is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in and stays with you long after you’ve finished it. If you’re going to read one new release this spring, make it this one — you won’t be disappoint
We follow Kasien and Kiara throughout their entire relationship — from the moment they meet as teenagers to everything they go through together and apart. What makes this book so powerful to me is how you’re taken along their full life journey. You don’t just feel their love, but also everything they each experience individually and how it shapes them.
It tells the story of a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love that gets torn apart, yet Kiara never stops searching for Kasien. That underlying sense of hope is always present, which makes it even more emotional.
The writing is beautiful and immersive, and I loved how the timelines are woven together. It adds so much depth and slowly reveals the full picture, making you feel more and more connected to the characters.
When I finished the book, I was completely wrecked. The emotions run so high and are written in such a way that you feel them right along with the characters. At the same time, there’s something healing about it — it breaks your heart, but also gives you hope.
This is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in and stays with you long after you’ve finished it. If you’re going to read one new release this spring, make it this one — you won’t be disappoint
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2026
I went into Vermilion Mercy not knowing a huge amount and wanting to support an authors debut novel. Needless to say I ended up completely hooked 🖤
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC was 🔥🔥 — their relationship felt engaging and emotionally driven, making me seriously invested. There was a great balance of tension and connection that kept me turning the pages.
I also really enjoyed the way the story moved between different time periods. It added so much more depth to the characters and gave a broader understanding of the story. Each timeline felt purposeful and helped build the bigger picture in a really satisfying way.
And that ending… I genuinely did not see it coming at all and I’m usually good at these things! It completely caught me off guard, devastated me, and left me needing the next book immediately.
For me VM sits at a solid 4⭐️ rather than higher as there were just a few moments where I felt there could’ve been a bit more depth or clarity and on occasion the writing felt a bit clunky - but definitely didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the story. Will definitely be reading the next one!
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC was 🔥🔥 — their relationship felt engaging and emotionally driven, making me seriously invested. There was a great balance of tension and connection that kept me turning the pages.
I also really enjoyed the way the story moved between different time periods. It added so much more depth to the characters and gave a broader understanding of the story. Each timeline felt purposeful and helped build the bigger picture in a really satisfying way.
And that ending… I genuinely did not see it coming at all and I’m usually good at these things! It completely caught me off guard, devastated me, and left me needing the next book immediately.
For me VM sits at a solid 4⭐️ rather than higher as there were just a few moments where I felt there could’ve been a bit more depth or clarity and on occasion the writing felt a bit clunky - but definitely didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the story. Will definitely be reading the next one!
April 6, 2026
Vermilion mercy
Vermilion Mercy is a dark romance set inside a powerful and secretive organization where loyalty and control shape everything. The story follows Kaisen, a vulnerable and disciplined guy who had to turn to killing for the sake of others. Kiara is not only his love interest but far more than that - Kiara is a tough journalist who puts love and care ahead of herself, and also is super sexy!
Kaisen is used to being in control and keeping his emotions locked away, but Kiara challenges that. She’s strong and doesn’t easily break, even in difficult situations. Their relationship is intense and complicated, filled with tension, power struggles, and growing emotional dependence.
The book has a dark, gripping atmosphere, and the romance isn’t soft or traditional. Instead, it’s messy, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable - but that’s what makes it interesting.
Overall I highly recommend reading this because it is genuinely such an amazing book - cannot wait for Adriens story!!!
Vermilion Mercy is a dark romance set inside a powerful and secretive organization where loyalty and control shape everything. The story follows Kaisen, a vulnerable and disciplined guy who had to turn to killing for the sake of others. Kiara is not only his love interest but far more than that - Kiara is a tough journalist who puts love and care ahead of herself, and also is super sexy!
Kaisen is used to being in control and keeping his emotions locked away, but Kiara challenges that. She’s strong and doesn’t easily break, even in difficult situations. Their relationship is intense and complicated, filled with tension, power struggles, and growing emotional dependence.
The book has a dark, gripping atmosphere, and the romance isn’t soft or traditional. Instead, it’s messy, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable - but that’s what makes it interesting.
Overall I highly recommend reading this because it is genuinely such an amazing book - cannot wait for Adriens story!!!
April 7, 2026
This book was amazing! Absolutely loved it start to finish, such a good story! It was so creative and detailed the story was told using present day and flashbacks throughout including switching between character POVs giving us so much emotion from different characters. The flashbacks built the story with so much suspense it had me constantly wanting to know more. The chemistry between the characters had me kicking my feet,screaming crying everything the way it had me feeling throughout the book is anything I hoped for. Not only did we see the trauma the characters went through but the bonds that came out of it kaisen and adrian had such a strong relationship and I’m living for it plus the banter these guy had together was so funny! It has just the right amount of spice, the scenes were written so well they had me blushing. If you like dark romance with banter,spice,suspense and just an overall good time this is definitely the one for you! I cannot wait for the next book I needed it yesterday!
April 20, 2026
La verdad que descubrí este libro por tiktok y no sabía que esperarme pero ha resultado ser toda una sorpresa.
Empezamos con Kasien y su hermana Natalya en un orfanato, hasta que una familia decide adoptarlos. Esa familia no es como ellos creen, sino que tienen negocios sucios y peligrosos. Kasien es obligado a asistir a eventos, reuniones etc y sino hace lo que se le pide, tiene que atenerse a las consecuencias. También tenemos a Adrien, que será su amigo y confidente en este mundo oscuro.
Él se enamora de Kiara, pero por un problema, veremos cómo se distancian durante 6 años. En el presente, ella es periodista y se dedica a investigar esa organización, ademas siente que no está muerto, pero que pasa si te encuentra él antes? Por qué te buscaría tantos años después? Estás en peligro y no lo sabes, pero tú única opción es quedarte con él y ver cómo podéis recuperar la relación del pasado mientras evitas que os maten a todos, será posible??
Los flashback de como se conocieron Kasien y Kiara, lo que tuvo que pasar él, su vida con Adrien... me ha gustado mucho
Empezamos con Kasien y su hermana Natalya en un orfanato, hasta que una familia decide adoptarlos. Esa familia no es como ellos creen, sino que tienen negocios sucios y peligrosos. Kasien es obligado a asistir a eventos, reuniones etc y sino hace lo que se le pide, tiene que atenerse a las consecuencias. También tenemos a Adrien, que será su amigo y confidente en este mundo oscuro.
Él se enamora de Kiara, pero por un problema, veremos cómo se distancian durante 6 años. En el presente, ella es periodista y se dedica a investigar esa organización, ademas siente que no está muerto, pero que pasa si te encuentra él antes? Por qué te buscaría tantos años después? Estás en peligro y no lo sabes, pero tú única opción es quedarte con él y ver cómo podéis recuperar la relación del pasado mientras evitas que os maten a todos, será posible??
Los flashback de como se conocieron Kasien y Kiara, lo que tuvo que pasar él, su vida con Adrien... me ha gustado mucho
April 11, 2026
ARC REVIEW -
Absolutely loved this book ✨💛 If you’re in the mood for a new book boyfriend, literally look no further! This book took me on a real emotional roller coaster in the best way possible and I can’t believe how much I enjoyed it 🖤 the story, the characters, their dynamics and the 🌶️ was all phenomenal. It had the right amount of happy moments and dark ones that balanced everything perfectly for me.
The author does a great job of telling a story from both the past and the present which normally can be overwhelming but this was done so seamlessly, and the writing style literally had me hooked from the beginning! Also the dual POV was done exactly as it should be done and it hit all the right places.
The first snowfall scene will literally live in my mind rent free forever❄️🌨️🩵
I personally can’t wait to see what’s coming next from this author!
Beyond recommend picking this book if you’re looking for your next great read✨
Absolutely loved this book ✨💛 If you’re in the mood for a new book boyfriend, literally look no further! This book took me on a real emotional roller coaster in the best way possible and I can’t believe how much I enjoyed it 🖤 the story, the characters, their dynamics and the 🌶️ was all phenomenal. It had the right amount of happy moments and dark ones that balanced everything perfectly for me.
The author does a great job of telling a story from both the past and the present which normally can be overwhelming but this was done so seamlessly, and the writing style literally had me hooked from the beginning! Also the dual POV was done exactly as it should be done and it hit all the right places.
The first snowfall scene will literally live in my mind rent free forever❄️🌨️🩵
I personally can’t wait to see what’s coming next from this author!
Beyond recommend picking this book if you’re looking for your next great read✨
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