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Shattered In Darkness: A dark romance standalone
This is a dark romance standalone. It is trauma-heavy, psychological, depraved, violent, explicit and contains pitch-black elements. Recommended for 18+ years or older.
LOLA
I've spent years surviving my depraved stepfather. Quiet. Calm.
Compliant. The second I fight back, I pay for it. My momma can't save me, she's gone. I'm the leftovers of the girl I used to be.
Brody was my first love. It ended badly. No closure. Just scars that never stopped burning.
Now he's back, and he isn't the boy I remember. He's obsessive and angry. The way he looks at me doesn't feel like love. It feels darker.
He wants the truth. I want freedom.
A cabin in the snow. A locked door only he controls. A skull mask in the dark. Wind loud enough to swallow screams. Rules that tighten until fear turns into heat, and heat turns into shame.
And somewhere in that frozen darkness, we realize we're both caged.
BRODY
I didn't come back to make peace. I came back because she was the one thing I never got over, even when I tried to bury it under rage.
My father tells me what I need to be to survive. Obedient.
Controlled. Violent. I'm a ghost of the boy she loved. She's the enemy now, she's the reason I lost everything. I want to break her, to hear her scream. But, I still want her, and it makes me sick.
Then she disappears, and something in me snaps.
Lola isn't mine to save.
She's mine to keep.
LOLA
I've spent years surviving my depraved stepfather. Quiet. Calm.
Compliant. The second I fight back, I pay for it. My momma can't save me, she's gone. I'm the leftovers of the girl I used to be.
Brody was my first love. It ended badly. No closure. Just scars that never stopped burning.
Now he's back, and he isn't the boy I remember. He's obsessive and angry. The way he looks at me doesn't feel like love. It feels darker.
He wants the truth. I want freedom.
A cabin in the snow. A locked door only he controls. A skull mask in the dark. Wind loud enough to swallow screams. Rules that tighten until fear turns into heat, and heat turns into shame.
And somewhere in that frozen darkness, we realize we're both caged.
BRODY
I didn't come back to make peace. I came back because she was the one thing I never got over, even when I tried to bury it under rage.
My father tells me what I need to be to survive. Obedient.
Controlled. Violent. I'm a ghost of the boy she loved. She's the enemy now, she's the reason I lost everything. I want to break her, to hear her scream. But, I still want her, and it makes me sick.
Then she disappears, and something in me snaps.
Lola isn't mine to save.
She's mine to keep.
472 pages, Paperback
Published August 17, 2026
About the author
Donna Kessler
10 books19 followersDonna Kessler is a self taught writer residing in North Carolina. She has been a lifelong lover of reading, writing and poetry. She began reading and writing when she was a young child as a way to express herself and escape from reality. She enjoys writing about dark, tragic and traumatic themes with emotional and psychological depth. Her favorite genres to read and write are contemporary dark romance with aspects of horror or mystery and poetry. She has two dogs and also enjoys painting, psychology, cleaning, caring for animals. Her main hope is that readers will find her books and truly connect with the emotional depth, character and the relationships in books.
I am author of HEARTS ENTANGLED IN WINTER'S FURY.
(NEW REVIEWERS: EDITION PUBLISHED IN 2025 IS NO LONGER RELEVANT. PLEASE REVIEW NEW EDITION BEING PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 16TH 2026)
I am author of HEARTS ENTANGLED IN WINTER'S FURY.
(NEW REVIEWERS: EDITION PUBLISHED IN 2025 IS NO LONGER RELEVANT. PLEASE REVIEW NEW EDITION BEING PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 16TH 2026)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 17, 2026
2.3 ⭐️
As a pitch black reader, this book does have the dark base but none triggers me, yet it might be triggering for you especially for sensitive readers, so yeah heavy on checking the tw. Heads up on the non con and rape scenes.
Honestly, the writing is not for me - it felt disconnected with the characters and plot, choppy and kinda trying too hard as well at some part (like in wanting to portrays that the characters is this and that - like oh he’s so dark, so bad, but truthfully revealed how he’s not that pitch black 😩, (they could pass as the usual morally grey, yeah), and most dialogues feels more of like just all talks, like they’ve been spitting cocky talks or trying to portrays that that’s them, yet that’s all, you know? and the well known scenes that had been in many books now, it just appeared as kinda unsuccessful attempts in this book, etc), in addition with too much exaggeration attempts in the plot that it came out as annoying for me..for example, when the characters keep saying things like they hate each other like from the earliest chapter till almost the end but no hate were in the room with them at all, because aside from showing they keep on thinking of each other & oogling each other, there’s no reason to suddenly and carrying that hate with each other other than miscommunication + ego + foolishness between them, and after almost the end of the book, the infamous night that they said had started their drifting apart was actually just a misunderstood - as I’ve already seen it from the start - yet still, absolutely annoyed me as it took that long to reveal, avoidable actually, but there it goes, keep mentioning the night until almost the end..most of the plot were unnecessarily been stretch out for nothing..maybe that’s due to the writing, or the plot need better rearranging or both..I’m really trying till the ending, but sorry..I honestly don’t mind the multi pov, but the writing style - the sentences and all were just not it and mostly I’m dreaded to keep on reading till finish. Also, some things unanswered - why can’t she really contacted them when she’s being stalked, was it Brody that did something about that or else? And what happened to Sophie from that point on, since she never reply Lola and whatnot, but reappeared at the ending like nothing happened?
The plot base is good, got the potential to be of a somewhat good, dark read, but yeah unsuccessful to be it for me..
Thank you for the ARC though, I might try another book from the author since this is my first of hers, maybe it’ll be different or something, right, idk..Anyway, if you like dark reads, this might be for you, as I’ve seen some others did enjoyed it..
Have a great day all 🖤
As a pitch black reader, this book does have the dark base but none triggers me, yet it might be triggering for you especially for sensitive readers, so yeah heavy on checking the tw. Heads up on the non con and rape scenes.
Honestly, the writing is not for me - it felt disconnected with the characters and plot, choppy and kinda trying too hard as well at some part (like in wanting to portrays that the characters is this and that - like oh he’s so dark, so bad, but truthfully revealed how he’s not that pitch black 😩, (they could pass as the usual morally grey, yeah), and most dialogues feels more of like just all talks, like they’ve been spitting cocky talks or trying to portrays that that’s them, yet that’s all, you know? and the well known scenes that had been in many books now, it just appeared as kinda unsuccessful attempts in this book, etc), in addition with too much exaggeration attempts in the plot that it came out as annoying for me..for example, when the characters keep saying things like they hate each other like from the earliest chapter till almost the end but no hate were in the room with them at all, because aside from showing they keep on thinking of each other & oogling each other, there’s no reason to suddenly and carrying that hate with each other other than miscommunication + ego + foolishness between them, and after almost the end of the book, the infamous night that they said had started their drifting apart was actually just a misunderstood - as I’ve already seen it from the start - yet still, absolutely annoyed me as it took that long to reveal, avoidable actually, but there it goes, keep mentioning the night until almost the end..most of the plot were unnecessarily been stretch out for nothing..maybe that’s due to the writing, or the plot need better rearranging or both..I’m really trying till the ending, but sorry..I honestly don’t mind the multi pov, but the writing style - the sentences and all were just not it and mostly I’m dreaded to keep on reading till finish. Also, some things unanswered - why can’t she really contacted them when she’s being stalked, was it Brody that did something about that or else? And what happened to Sophie from that point on, since she never reply Lola and whatnot, but reappeared at the ending like nothing happened?
The plot base is good, got the potential to be of a somewhat good, dark read, but yeah unsuccessful to be it for me..
Thank you for the ARC though, I might try another book from the author since this is my first of hers, maybe it’ll be different or something, right, idk..Anyway, if you like dark reads, this might be for you, as I’ve seen some others did enjoyed it..
Have a great day all 🖤
August 17, 2026
I got the opportunity to do an ARC read and honest review for this book.
3.75 rounded up to 4 🌟. 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Please check your triggers before picking this up. It is not a dark romance, it’s pitch black throughout the majority of the book. It covers some very dark themes.
I enjoyed this read for the most part, it gave me The Edge of Darkness vibes but even gorier.
This book is about our FMC, Lola, who loses her Mom and is left to survive life with her monster of a stepdad, Marcus (I’d happily string that man up by his balls). She is in love with her next door neighbour, Brody, who is our MMC. Everything is ripped apart after her Mom passes. Lola and Brody are ripped apart and we see flashbacks throughout the book that explain exactly what happened between Lola’s Mom passing and the current day. I really enjoy flashbacks as it’s like getting a little piece of a puzzle you’re yet to complete.
We are taken on a rollercoaster ride filled with heartbreak and insanity. There is so much trauma to unpack and some twists and turns along the way. Lola is seen as an object or a possession for a man to own throughout the book but she never loses the spark inside herself.
The first half of the book I struggled with a bit, it felt like the pacing was off but the second half brought it back.
My one gripe would be certain words or phrases being over used which made it a little bit hard for me to stay gripped but overall it was a good read
3.75 rounded up to 4 🌟. 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Please check your triggers before picking this up. It is not a dark romance, it’s pitch black throughout the majority of the book. It covers some very dark themes.
I enjoyed this read for the most part, it gave me The Edge of Darkness vibes but even gorier.
This book is about our FMC, Lola, who loses her Mom and is left to survive life with her monster of a stepdad, Marcus (I’d happily string that man up by his balls). She is in love with her next door neighbour, Brody, who is our MMC. Everything is ripped apart after her Mom passes. Lola and Brody are ripped apart and we see flashbacks throughout the book that explain exactly what happened between Lola’s Mom passing and the current day. I really enjoy flashbacks as it’s like getting a little piece of a puzzle you’re yet to complete.
We are taken on a rollercoaster ride filled with heartbreak and insanity. There is so much trauma to unpack and some twists and turns along the way. Lola is seen as an object or a possession for a man to own throughout the book but she never loses the spark inside herself.
The first half of the book I struggled with a bit, it felt like the pacing was off but the second half brought it back.
My one gripe would be certain words or phrases being over used which made it a little bit hard for me to stay gripped but overall it was a good read
Review of advance copy received from Author
🚨Readers should absolutely check content warnings before diving in.🚨
Shattered Into Darkness is not for the faint-hearted. From the opening chapters, it's clear that this is an exceptionally dark and emotionally brutal story packed with numerous triggers and difficult subject matter.
The author explores trauma, suffering, and the lasting impact of devastating experiences through deeply flawed, wounded characters who endure more than most people could imagine. The journey remained compelling, running a dual POV, and I found myself completely invested in the characters and their fight to survive both their circumstances and their inner demons - only stopping reading one night because my kindle needed charging!!
There's an even pace that allows the story to develop while still maintaining tension. There were no sections that felt rushed or overly drawn out; every chapter seemed to pull me further into the seemingly hopeless situation for Lola, who absolutely broke my heart. Brody is a massive red flag of a MMC, but (and it's a big but) his "love" for Lola is all consuming, and had events taken a different course, he would quite possibly be adorable!!
Two things I especially liked:
🖤The character work – The main characters felt authentic, damaged, and emotionally layered. Their struggles, resilience, and growth made them unique.
🖤The pacing and intensity – Despite the heavy themes and constant emotional pulls, the story remained well-paced and consistently engaging, keeping me invested from beginning to end.
Overall, Shattered Into Darkness is a harrowing, emotionally charged read that delivers exactly what dark romance/dark fiction readers look for: powerful emotion, complex characters, and an atmosphere that builds throughout the book, right to the end.
Overall Rating 4.5/5 ⭐
Spice Rating 5/5 🌶️(very detailed, lots of it, taboo topics)
I received a copy of Shattered in Darkness as an ARC. This review is left voluntarily and views are my own.
Shattered Into Darkness is not for the faint-hearted. From the opening chapters, it's clear that this is an exceptionally dark and emotionally brutal story packed with numerous triggers and difficult subject matter.
The author explores trauma, suffering, and the lasting impact of devastating experiences through deeply flawed, wounded characters who endure more than most people could imagine. The journey remained compelling, running a dual POV, and I found myself completely invested in the characters and their fight to survive both their circumstances and their inner demons - only stopping reading one night because my kindle needed charging!!
There's an even pace that allows the story to develop while still maintaining tension. There were no sections that felt rushed or overly drawn out; every chapter seemed to pull me further into the seemingly hopeless situation for Lola, who absolutely broke my heart. Brody is a massive red flag of a MMC, but (and it's a big but) his "love" for Lola is all consuming, and had events taken a different course, he would quite possibly be adorable!!
Two things I especially liked:
🖤The character work – The main characters felt authentic, damaged, and emotionally layered. Their struggles, resilience, and growth made them unique.
🖤The pacing and intensity – Despite the heavy themes and constant emotional pulls, the story remained well-paced and consistently engaging, keeping me invested from beginning to end.
Overall, Shattered Into Darkness is a harrowing, emotionally charged read that delivers exactly what dark romance/dark fiction readers look for: powerful emotion, complex characters, and an atmosphere that builds throughout the book, right to the end.
Overall Rating 4.5/5 ⭐
Spice Rating 5/5 🌶️(very detailed, lots of it, taboo topics)
I received a copy of Shattered in Darkness as an ARC. This review is left voluntarily and views are my own.
August 16, 2026
First off, a great read that I fully recommend if one is not faint of heart. Check your tw friends, it’s a doozy, but such a good one.
This isn’t a love story. But, it is about love. Toxic, brutal, messy, vengeful love.
I tore through this book in less than a day. The writing was unparalleled. I needed more. Wanted more. I had to know Brody and Lola’s story.
A story it was. The pain and literal torture this two went through was unimaginable, yet they came out on top.
My God Lola was mentally invincible, this girl deserves the world and all the love in it.
I hate that I love Brody, but I do. He is awful, he is sexy, he is sin, he is droolworthy. He is Lola’s. Lola is Brody’s.
This is my first book from this author and will not be my last!
This isn’t a love story. But, it is about love. Toxic, brutal, messy, vengeful love.
I tore through this book in less than a day. The writing was unparalleled. I needed more. Wanted more. I had to know Brody and Lola’s story.
A story it was. The pain and literal torture this two went through was unimaginable, yet they came out on top.
My God Lola was mentally invincible, this girl deserves the world and all the love in it.
I hate that I love Brody, but I do. He is awful, he is sexy, he is sin, he is droolworthy. He is Lola’s. Lola is Brody’s.
This is my first book from this author and will not be my last!
August 17, 2026
6⭐️♾️⭐️
ARC review
This is pitch black, with trauma, spice, healing
First thank you to Donna for the opportunity to read this
The first chapter enraged me and had me sat. The horrible abuse Lola experiences at the hands of her stepfather Marcus - hate him with a passion but he got his karma.
The torture Lola experiences at the hands of Brody - her first love, her first heartbreak, her monster
Brody is unhinged, he misunderstood her, he wants answers.
The MMC, FMC and all the other characters were written so well and the author portrayed the trauma and healing so well
One of my favourite books of the year
Out today - 17th August 2026
ARC review
This is pitch black, with trauma, spice, healing
First thank you to Donna for the opportunity to read this
The first chapter enraged me and had me sat. The horrible abuse Lola experiences at the hands of her stepfather Marcus - hate him with a passion but he got his karma.
The torture Lola experiences at the hands of Brody - her first love, her first heartbreak, her monster
Brody is unhinged, he misunderstood her, he wants answers.
The MMC, FMC and all the other characters were written so well and the author portrayed the trauma and healing so well
One of my favourite books of the year
Out today - 17th August 2026
August 12, 2026
This book was provided to me as an advance reader copy and my review is entirely voluntary. My thoughts, opinions, and comments are all my own!
Before you read this book: READ. THE. TRIGGERS.
There are a lot of traumatic, abusive, and emotionally volatile themes within this book. It. Is. DARK.
One thing I want to say is that this book was written absolutely beautifully. The author has a way of drawing in the reader so that you feel exactly what Lola and Brody are experiencing. Her words claw their way into you just as the pain, rage, lust, fear claw into the two main characters. They both have experienced trauma, with Lola’s life seeming to just be a whole bubble of trauma.
This book takes you down the dark path that converges through twists and turns between these characters. There is also A LOT of spice. So be prepared for that. All in all, I still couldn’t put the book down.
If you enjoy dark, DARK romance, then this book should absolutely be added to your TBR.
Before you read this book: READ. THE. TRIGGERS.
There are a lot of traumatic, abusive, and emotionally volatile themes within this book. It. Is. DARK.
One thing I want to say is that this book was written absolutely beautifully. The author has a way of drawing in the reader so that you feel exactly what Lola and Brody are experiencing. Her words claw their way into you just as the pain, rage, lust, fear claw into the two main characters. They both have experienced trauma, with Lola’s life seeming to just be a whole bubble of trauma.
This book takes you down the dark path that converges through twists and turns between these characters. There is also A LOT of spice. So be prepared for that. All in all, I still couldn’t put the book down.
If you enjoy dark, DARK romance, then this book should absolutely be added to your TBR.
August 10, 2026
ARC in exchange for honest review. 💙💙💙
While Brody lacks emotion for others, he understands his deep need is never ending for Lola. He feels Lola is his and WILL be his forever. Lola is dying piece by piece daily. She’s being abused by every single person in her life. She still holds on, and does what she can to survive the day.
What I love about Brody is how he never lies to himself about his feelings for Lola. He wants to consume her, even when he feels she betrayed him. Brody’s obsession for Lola has no end, it’s absolute. When they are both faced with the truth of their traumatic past, they realize how no matter how broken they may feel, their love for one another is everlasting. This book broke my heart but was incredibly well written. This is the story I have looked for in other books/authors but they were lacking. The pace never failed to keep me engaged, the story seemed realistic, and the characters gripped me. The HEA is highly deserved for both Brody and Lola. 5 ⭐️
While Brody lacks emotion for others, he understands his deep need is never ending for Lola. He feels Lola is his and WILL be his forever. Lola is dying piece by piece daily. She’s being abused by every single person in her life. She still holds on, and does what she can to survive the day.
What I love about Brody is how he never lies to himself about his feelings for Lola. He wants to consume her, even when he feels she betrayed him. Brody’s obsession for Lola has no end, it’s absolute. When they are both faced with the truth of their traumatic past, they realize how no matter how broken they may feel, their love for one another is everlasting. This book broke my heart but was incredibly well written. This is the story I have looked for in other books/authors but they were lacking. The pace never failed to keep me engaged, the story seemed realistic, and the characters gripped me. The HEA is highly deserved for both Brody and Lola. 5 ⭐️
August 10, 2026
I just finished the ARC of *Shattered in Darkness* by Donna Kessler, which follows the story of Lola and Brody. I couldn’t put it down! The writing was excellent, the plot engaging, and the smut scenes were well done. The ending really got to me—when he said her home is with her, it melted my heart. This book is a gem and comes out on August 17th. Definitely a five-star read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4/5 Star Rating.
This book destroyed me. Like, genuinely destroyed me.
I honestly shouldn't be liking this book as much as I do. I definitely shouldn't be loving the MMC as much as I do, but oh my God, I loved him so much. I finished the book and couldn't even bring myself to think about another book because I was still so stuck in this one.
Every single character had so much depth, and every character actually played a role in the story. The MMC, FMC, and even the villains were written so well. And the villains? I hated them. Like, genuinely hated them. I wanted to gouge their eyes out every time they appeared. That's how perfectly they were written as villains.
The FMC did frustrate me at times, and honestly, I thought she was a little stupid in some situations. But I also understood where she was coming from. She didn't have a choice. The way she had to bow her head and keep living despite everything she went through was heartbreaking. Her life was so traumatizing, yet she kept going no matter what.
And then there was the MMC's love and hatred for her at the same time. That was portrayed so beautifully. He wanted answers, he misunderstood her, and everything between them was so complicated. Normally, if I see a book heavily based on misunderstandings, I stay away because it's one of the tropes I usually don't enjoy. But this book? I couldn't put it down.
I stayed up all night reading this. My eyes were literally burning because I desperately needed sleep, but I just kept flipping the pages because I needed to know what happened next.
And the worst part? Even now, when I think about the book, random scenes keep replaying in my head. And some of those scenes still hurt like hell. That's how deeply this story got to me.
I really, really appreciate the author for this book because she genuinely worked magic here. I loved how the story explored trauma, healing, and the fact that not everyone who gets what they want suddenly becomes a better person. Some people remain villains. Some people are shaped so deeply by their past that they can't simply change who they are.
I loved the characters. I hated the villains. I questioned everyone's decisions. I got frustrated, obsessed, emotionally destroyed and somehow, I still loved every second of it.
Four stars because this book absolutely wrecked me, and apparently I enjoyed being wrecked. 🖤
This book destroyed me. Like, genuinely destroyed me.
I honestly shouldn't be liking this book as much as I do. I definitely shouldn't be loving the MMC as much as I do, but oh my God, I loved him so much. I finished the book and couldn't even bring myself to think about another book because I was still so stuck in this one.
Every single character had so much depth, and every character actually played a role in the story. The MMC, FMC, and even the villains were written so well. And the villains? I hated them. Like, genuinely hated them. I wanted to gouge their eyes out every time they appeared. That's how perfectly they were written as villains.
The FMC did frustrate me at times, and honestly, I thought she was a little stupid in some situations. But I also understood where she was coming from. She didn't have a choice. The way she had to bow her head and keep living despite everything she went through was heartbreaking. Her life was so traumatizing, yet she kept going no matter what.
And then there was the MMC's love and hatred for her at the same time. That was portrayed so beautifully. He wanted answers, he misunderstood her, and everything between them was so complicated. Normally, if I see a book heavily based on misunderstandings, I stay away because it's one of the tropes I usually don't enjoy. But this book? I couldn't put it down.
I stayed up all night reading this. My eyes were literally burning because I desperately needed sleep, but I just kept flipping the pages because I needed to know what happened next.
And the worst part? Even now, when I think about the book, random scenes keep replaying in my head. And some of those scenes still hurt like hell. That's how deeply this story got to me.
I really, really appreciate the author for this book because she genuinely worked magic here. I loved how the story explored trauma, healing, and the fact that not everyone who gets what they want suddenly becomes a better person. Some people remain villains. Some people are shaped so deeply by their past that they can't simply change who they are.
I loved the characters. I hated the villains. I questioned everyone's decisions. I got frustrated, obsessed, emotionally destroyed and somehow, I still loved every second of it.
Four stars because this book absolutely wrecked me, and apparently I enjoyed being wrecked. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rounding up to 4 ⭐ for the sheer f***ed-up-ness of it all 🤪
🖤Pitch Black🖤
5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥
⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨
🖤 Are you ready for a 𝘗𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢-𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺, 𝘗𝘴𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭, 𝘝𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭 5 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘺, 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦?
…I thought I was… 😱
Holy hell! Brody and Lola (especially Brody) are like next level f***ed up.
Lola, mostly as a product of her environment, and Brody… Well, he was born ‘different’ and it just never got better for him. 💔
Lola was drawn to Brody’s darkness.
They sortta trauma bonded. They each provided what the other needed.
But things ended badly.
Lola disappears.
Brody leaves.
And now Lola is trapped with her controlling and abusive stepfather.
Brody returns with a vengeance and rage in his veins, believing Lola is his enemy.
His father has trained him to be a ‘fixer’ of sorts for all his dirty dealings and constantly fed him lies about Lola to keep him in line and on his side.
All the love Brody once held for Lola is now hatred and there’s nothing he won’t do to exact his revenge on her.
Even though love still exists in his deepest parts, he’s blinded by the darkness and the need to control. Control Lola in the most vile and depraved ways possible.
He wants to 𝙊𝙒𝙉 her.
He wants to 𝙍𝙐𝙄𝙉 her.
He doesn’t know how to show love.
He only knows pain and violence.
Well, that’s exactly what Lola needs, but 𝙾𝙽𝙻𝚈 if it’s from Brody.
Sort of… Eventually…
These two are seriously deranged 🤪
Y’all… I can’t express the level and amount of torture Lola experiences.
From her stepfather. From Brody. And from countless random men. It’s absolutely horrible and heartbreaking what she goes through.
❌ And Brody. My gawwwwwd! He’s awful! Brutal, malicious, deranged, tormented, unhinged, unstable, and completely off the rails. 😵
And not in the 𝕤𝕖𝕩𝕪-𝕣𝕖𝕕-𝕗𝕝𝕒𝕘. 😬
This is the blackest, most tainted, toxic type of love story from the deepest depths of hell.
Why are we drawn to this type of ‘𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵’? 🫣
No judgement here 🤘 I say, The Darker The Better.
Well, it doesn't get much darker, folks! 😈
This is Mean, and Ugly, and Violent, and Extremely Graphic.
⚠️ Enter at your own risk⚠️
Torture | Sexual Assault | Explicit Sexual Acts | Violence | Abuse | Trauma | Extremely Graphic
🖤Pitch Black🖤
5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥
⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨⚠️🚨
🖤 Are you ready for a 𝘗𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘮𝘢-𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺, 𝘗𝘴𝘺𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭, 𝘝𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭 5 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘺, 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦?
…I thought I was… 😱
Holy hell! Brody and Lola (especially Brody) are like next level f***ed up.
Lola, mostly as a product of her environment, and Brody… Well, he was born ‘different’ and it just never got better for him. 💔
Lola was drawn to Brody’s darkness.
They sortta trauma bonded. They each provided what the other needed.
But things ended badly.
Lola disappears.
Brody leaves.
And now Lola is trapped with her controlling and abusive stepfather.
Brody returns with a vengeance and rage in his veins, believing Lola is his enemy.
His father has trained him to be a ‘fixer’ of sorts for all his dirty dealings and constantly fed him lies about Lola to keep him in line and on his side.
All the love Brody once held for Lola is now hatred and there’s nothing he won’t do to exact his revenge on her.
Even though love still exists in his deepest parts, he’s blinded by the darkness and the need to control. Control Lola in the most vile and depraved ways possible.
He wants to 𝙊𝙒𝙉 her.
He wants to 𝙍𝙐𝙄𝙉 her.
He doesn’t know how to show love.
He only knows pain and violence.
Well, that’s exactly what Lola needs, but 𝙾𝙽𝙻𝚈 if it’s from Brody.
Sort of… Eventually…
These two are seriously deranged 🤪
Y’all… I can’t express the level and amount of torture Lola experiences.
From her stepfather. From Brody. And from countless random men. It’s absolutely horrible and heartbreaking what she goes through.
❌ And Brody. My gawwwwwd! He’s awful! Brutal, malicious, deranged, tormented, unhinged, unstable, and completely off the rails. 😵
And not in the 𝕤𝕖𝕩𝕪-𝕣𝕖𝕕-𝕗𝕝𝕒𝕘. 😬
This is the blackest, most tainted, toxic type of love story from the deepest depths of hell.
Why are we drawn to this type of ‘𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵’? 🫣
No judgement here 🤘 I say, The Darker The Better.
Well, it doesn't get much darker, folks! 😈
This is Mean, and Ugly, and Violent, and Extremely Graphic.
⚠️ Enter at your own risk⚠️
Torture | Sexual Assault | Explicit Sexual Acts | Violence | Abuse | Trauma | Extremely Graphic
Read
August 15, 2026
REVIEW OF ADVANCE READER COPY FROM AUTHOR
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5/5
This was dark, messy, and seriously intense. I knew going in that this was going to be a heavy read, but some parts still caught me off guard.
Lola's situation was probably the hardest part for me to read. The amount of control and abuse she went through made her story heartbreaking, and I really felt for her throughout the book. Brody was a whole different kind of complicated. He was obsessed with Lola from such a young age, but years of anger, manipulation, and everything that happened between them turned that love into something incredibly toxic.
What kept me reading was wanting to see how their story would unfold after everything that happened between them. There were so many layers to their past, especially with Marcus and Richard, and I liked slowly finding out what actually happened and why Brody left Lola in the first place.
The story definitely doesn't shy away from the darkness. The abuse, captivity, manipulation, violence, and psychological elements are very heavy, so this is absolutely not a book I'd recommend going into blindly.
I also liked that the ending gave Lola a sense of freedom and finally brought some resolution to everything she had been through. Brody's redemption wasn't exactly clean or simple, but considering the kind of story this was, I appreciated that the characters had to deal with the consequences of everything that happened.
Overall, this was a 3.5-star read for me. It was definitely memorable and had some moments that genuinely got to me, but what made this a difficult read for me was the ongoing repetition. A lot of the same thoughts & emotions were revisited multiple times, and after a while it started to feel a little drawn out. I think the story could have had a stronger impact if some of those moments had been trimmed down.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5/5
This was dark, messy, and seriously intense. I knew going in that this was going to be a heavy read, but some parts still caught me off guard.
Lola's situation was probably the hardest part for me to read. The amount of control and abuse she went through made her story heartbreaking, and I really felt for her throughout the book. Brody was a whole different kind of complicated. He was obsessed with Lola from such a young age, but years of anger, manipulation, and everything that happened between them turned that love into something incredibly toxic.
What kept me reading was wanting to see how their story would unfold after everything that happened between them. There were so many layers to their past, especially with Marcus and Richard, and I liked slowly finding out what actually happened and why Brody left Lola in the first place.
The story definitely doesn't shy away from the darkness. The abuse, captivity, manipulation, violence, and psychological elements are very heavy, so this is absolutely not a book I'd recommend going into blindly.
I also liked that the ending gave Lola a sense of freedom and finally brought some resolution to everything she had been through. Brody's redemption wasn't exactly clean or simple, but considering the kind of story this was, I appreciated that the characters had to deal with the consequences of everything that happened.
Overall, this was a 3.5-star read for me. It was definitely memorable and had some moments that genuinely got to me, but what made this a difficult read for me was the ongoing repetition. A lot of the same thoughts & emotions were revisited multiple times, and after a while it started to feel a little drawn out. I think the story could have had a stronger impact if some of those moments had been trimmed down.
August 17, 2026
Donna Kessler... We need words.
This book is DARK. Like "doing the nasty next to a dead body" dark. There is trauma, tragedy and the most evil soulless villain I have had the misfortune to encounter- you know who you are (Marcus).
Shattered in Darkness is tragic. Beautifully heartbreaking. It delves into the loss of innocence and the idea of perpetual, deep rooted rot within people. This isn't a story about love, it's one of survival- both for the characters AND for me because I swear you don't read this one, you survive it.
Every flashback shows us how Lola becomes the shell of who she was and we see her world unravel, piece by piece. There were moments when reading this book when I wondered whether Lola's continual survival was a curse rather than a blessing. The universe does her no favours and things seem to go from bad, to worse, to catastrophic and finally to the point of no return where I was sat staring at a wall thinking "no one can survive this".
Hell itself took Lola, played with her and spat her back out just to torment her some more. Just when I thought there couldn't be anymore emotional damage, I got to watch as a broken Lola found impossible inner strength... and chose to live, to not be broken any further- and it broke me!
This was truly a journey and the tension as I got to 81% of the way through had me almost throwing my kindle at the wall, we were getting dangerously close to the end of the book and Justice had yet to be served! Thankfully, Donna didn't leave me rocking in a corner for too long as the ending was the perfect conclusion to my emotional breakdown. That said, this book should come with an added trigger warning as it did make me late for lunch with a friend because I got sucked into reading it as I was getting ready- I could not put it down.
This book is DARK. Like "doing the nasty next to a dead body" dark. There is trauma, tragedy and the most evil soulless villain I have had the misfortune to encounter- you know who you are (Marcus).
Shattered in Darkness is tragic. Beautifully heartbreaking. It delves into the loss of innocence and the idea of perpetual, deep rooted rot within people. This isn't a story about love, it's one of survival- both for the characters AND for me because I swear you don't read this one, you survive it.
Every flashback shows us how Lola becomes the shell of who she was and we see her world unravel, piece by piece. There were moments when reading this book when I wondered whether Lola's continual survival was a curse rather than a blessing. The universe does her no favours and things seem to go from bad, to worse, to catastrophic and finally to the point of no return where I was sat staring at a wall thinking "no one can survive this".
Hell itself took Lola, played with her and spat her back out just to torment her some more. Just when I thought there couldn't be anymore emotional damage, I got to watch as a broken Lola found impossible inner strength... and chose to live, to not be broken any further- and it broke me!
This was truly a journey and the tension as I got to 81% of the way through had me almost throwing my kindle at the wall, we were getting dangerously close to the end of the book and Justice had yet to be served! Thankfully, Donna didn't leave me rocking in a corner for too long as the ending was the perfect conclusion to my emotional breakdown. That said, this book should come with an added trigger warning as it did make me late for lunch with a friend because I got sucked into reading it as I was getting ready- I could not put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Smut: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
**** Please check trigger warnings. This has pitch black elements and is not for everyone. ****
I would call this one a "darker than dark" romance but doesn't fully fall into the pitch black category for me.
Lola and Brody start out in love, but familial circumstances turn their fairytale into a living nightmare. Lola becomes her stepfather's victim, and Brody is forced to become his father's fixer. Years later, Brody returns full of rage and ready to claim her back, forcing them both to fight the psychological aftermath of long-term brainwashing.
Donna Kessler writes with raw intensity, making me feel Lola's and Brody's trauma down to the soul. Lola’s story was completely heartbreaking and Brody's rage was vibrating through the pages, and I just wanted to hug them both.
Although slightly predictable, this was a fantastic gripping read!Check trigger warnings before starting! This has incredibly heavy elements and is not for the casual romance reader. But if you have no triggers, add this to your TBR immediately!
Smut: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
**** Please check trigger warnings. This has pitch black elements and is not for everyone. ****
I would call this one a "darker than dark" romance but doesn't fully fall into the pitch black category for me.
Lola and Brody start out in love, but familial circumstances turn their fairytale into a living nightmare. Lola becomes her stepfather's victim, and Brody is forced to become his father's fixer. Years later, Brody returns full of rage and ready to claim her back, forcing them both to fight the psychological aftermath of long-term brainwashing.
Donna Kessler writes with raw intensity, making me feel Lola's and Brody's trauma down to the soul. Lola’s story was completely heartbreaking and Brody's rage was vibrating through the pages, and I just wanted to hug them both.
Although slightly predictable, this was a fantastic gripping read!Check trigger warnings before starting! This has incredibly heavy elements and is not for the casual romance reader. But if you have no triggers, add this to your TBR immediately!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shattered In Darkness by Donna Kessler arc review 📚🖤
Honest spoiler free review .
Thank you so much Donna for accepting me as an arc reader ! I can’t wait to check out more of your books .
I absolutely loved this book , the plot ? Amazing , the spice ? Spicy , the tension and pacing of the book ? Perfect .
This book is definitely not for the beginner dark romance readers , but the way Donna writes the heavy topics throughout this book makes you feel for the main characters. Brody is definitely Morally black, he does some questionable things throughout this book , but he has his reasons . But can I say he’s absolutely yummy ?
Lola sweet Lola , definitely got served a rough hand in life . Some moments during this book I just wanted to hug her, but In some moments I wanted to give her a high five and say “ atta girl “.
Definitely recommend if you’re into the pitch black dark romance.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
Honest spoiler free review .
Thank you so much Donna for accepting me as an arc reader ! I can’t wait to check out more of your books .
I absolutely loved this book , the plot ? Amazing , the spice ? Spicy , the tension and pacing of the book ? Perfect .
This book is definitely not for the beginner dark romance readers , but the way Donna writes the heavy topics throughout this book makes you feel for the main characters. Brody is definitely Morally black, he does some questionable things throughout this book , but he has his reasons . But can I say he’s absolutely yummy ?
Lola sweet Lola , definitely got served a rough hand in life . Some moments during this book I just wanted to hug her, but In some moments I wanted to give her a high five and say “ atta girl “.
Definitely recommend if you’re into the pitch black dark romance.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy from the author.
This is a pitch black standalone romance with content that may be upsetting for some readers, so I would recommend reading the trigger warnings first. The story follows Lola and Brody, and I found both of them easy to connect with. I enjoyed how they articulated themselves, in a way that seemed to resonate with me, and I liked how darkness seemed to be a recurring theme in both narratives.
Aside from the romance and characters, another strong point for me was the tension in the writing and the unpredictability.
I found Lola and Brody's love story to be very complex and messy, and so this felt like an intense read, in a positive way. Their story felt very raw and real, but that's how I like my love stories because they resonate with me. I also have a soft spot for a masked MMC because I feel like that always adds something to the character.
If you enjoy pitch black romance that will play with your emotions, consider adding this one to your TBR. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC copy.
This is a pitch black standalone romance with content that may be upsetting for some readers, so I would recommend reading the trigger warnings first. The story follows Lola and Brody, and I found both of them easy to connect with. I enjoyed how they articulated themselves, in a way that seemed to resonate with me, and I liked how darkness seemed to be a recurring theme in both narratives.
Aside from the romance and characters, another strong point for me was the tension in the writing and the unpredictability.
I found Lola and Brody's love story to be very complex and messy, and so this felt like an intense read, in a positive way. Their story felt very raw and real, but that's how I like my love stories because they resonate with me. I also have a soft spot for a masked MMC because I feel like that always adds something to the character.
If you enjoy pitch black romance that will play with your emotions, consider adding this one to your TBR. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALL READERS SHOULD REVIEW TRIGGER WARNINGS! TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY!
AGAIN READ TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!
Shattered In Darkness was an absolute pitch black romance! I'm talking, go to a windowless basement and turn off all the lights - pitch black.
Honestly, I've been trying to figure out how to review Shattered In Darkness. While I couldn't walk away from the book because I NEEDED to know how Lola and Brody's story ended.... Though it was an addictive story, I didn't feel like it was 'complete'. I was left with questions.
For how much trauma and torture this book had I wish it had SOME healing. Something. The very last chapter I think was meant to do that but it felt more like the book just ended.
The book has multiple grammar and spelling errors. I almost DNF it because of it.
Because I did like the story and I felt like I needed to see what happened to the characters, I gave it 3 stars.
AGAIN READ TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!
Shattered In Darkness was an absolute pitch black romance! I'm talking, go to a windowless basement and turn off all the lights - pitch black.
Honestly, I've been trying to figure out how to review Shattered In Darkness. While I couldn't walk away from the book because I NEEDED to know how Lola and Brody's story ended.... Though it was an addictive story, I didn't feel like it was 'complete'. I was left with questions.
For how much trauma and torture this book had I wish it had SOME healing. Something. The very last chapter I think was meant to do that but it felt more like the book just ended.
The book has multiple grammar and spelling errors. I almost DNF it because of it.
Because I did like the story and I felt like I needed to see what happened to the characters, I gave it 3 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Happy Ever After, Friends to Lovers, Cute Dates under the Moonlight
These tropes are what you love and what you want? You're not gonna get any of those in this book.
This is a pitch-black romance, where love turns into obsession. Where hate is king.
IMPORTANT: read the trigger list, there are a lot.
This is gonna be a hard one to rate, because i didn't *love* it. But it captivated me, it intrigued me, it terrified me.
It made me SO uncomfortable. Which i'm pretty sure is one of the goals of the book. It reminds me of Haunting Adeline, if Zade was actually a monster, and where the hunt is not a game, and on crack.
I read this in less than 48 hours, it had me going for "one more chapter", wanting to see where the story ends.
This is not a feels good book. If you want the total opposite, then this is the book for you.
These tropes are what you love and what you want? You're not gonna get any of those in this book.
This is a pitch-black romance, where love turns into obsession. Where hate is king.
IMPORTANT: read the trigger list, there are a lot.
This is gonna be a hard one to rate, because i didn't *love* it. But it captivated me, it intrigued me, it terrified me.
It made me SO uncomfortable. Which i'm pretty sure is one of the goals of the book. It reminds me of Haunting Adeline, if Zade was actually a monster, and where the hunt is not a game, and on crack.
I read this in less than 48 hours, it had me going for "one more chapter", wanting to see where the story ends.
This is not a feels good book. If you want the total opposite, then this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author.
"No more lies. No more poison."
Shattered in Darkness completely took me to another world, a very dark, intense, and pitch-black one. Donna Kessler put an incredible amount of effort into the FMC and MMC, allowing us to deeply know Lola and Brody and understand their characters inside and out.
Their story is sad, broken, and emotionally heavy. Watching Brody become a monster and Lola become a shell of herself was devastating. Despite being used by the monsters around them, they manage to find comfort and solace in each other.
The pacing was great and kept me turning pages late into the night. It is a very dark and twisted ride, so you definitely need to check the trigger warnings before jumping in. If you love morally black characters and an addictive storyline, you will really enjoy this book!
"No more lies. No more poison."
Shattered in Darkness completely took me to another world, a very dark, intense, and pitch-black one. Donna Kessler put an incredible amount of effort into the FMC and MMC, allowing us to deeply know Lola and Brody and understand their characters inside and out.
Their story is sad, broken, and emotionally heavy. Watching Brody become a monster and Lola become a shell of herself was devastating. Despite being used by the monsters around them, they manage to find comfort and solace in each other.
The pacing was great and kept me turning pages late into the night. It is a very dark and twisted ride, so you definitely need to check the trigger warnings before jumping in. If you love morally black characters and an addictive storyline, you will really enjoy this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was my first truly pitch-black romance, and it completely captivated me with its raw intensity. Emotionally gut-wrenching and action-packed, the story plunged into deep, toxic connections between the two main characters—sometimes destructive, sometimes strangely perfect. Amidst the chaos, I believed they complemented each other perfectly, each fulfilling the other's deepest needs. It’s a genuine trauma bond that keeps you on the edge of your seat. There were moments I thought, 'This can't possibly work,' yet I always felt in my gut that they were true soulmates. Be warned, this story can be very triggering for some readers, so I strongly recommend checking trigger warnings first. I loved every second of it—their fierce fight and unwavering devotion truly struck a chord with me. I devoured this in one sitting, staying up all night because I couldn’t put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark and traumatic events that will leave you feeling for these two characters.
Story of Brody and Lola they go through so much together and alone that it will rip your insides out twist them apart and put it all back together.
Lola has a beyond tough time after losing her mom. Remaining with her stepdad the vile creature that he is. He has her do things that are awful and wrong.
Brody the MMC and love interest (is love the word)? Could be considered a villain as well. His father had him doing terrible things as well, but he feels more of a comfortable release.
I was really impressed once again with the writing style. It’s definitely DARK so if you’re triggered read up on those. Otherwise definitely give this a read and explore the human soul.
Story of Brody and Lola they go through so much together and alone that it will rip your insides out twist them apart and put it all back together.
Lola has a beyond tough time after losing her mom. Remaining with her stepdad the vile creature that he is. He has her do things that are awful and wrong.
Brody the MMC and love interest (is love the word)? Could be considered a villain as well. His father had him doing terrible things as well, but he feels more of a comfortable release.
I was really impressed once again with the writing style. It’s definitely DARK so if you’re triggered read up on those. Otherwise definitely give this a read and explore the human soul.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read as an arc
PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The messed up relationship between Lola and Body was INSANE. One minute I wanted to scream at them, the next I was completely invested in their story. Their history, their hurt, and all the things left unsaid made their relationship so messy, complicated, and impossible to look away from.
There was so much emotional rage and enough tension to keep me invested even when I thought there was no redemption. They did the most awful things to each other. I was still hoping.
If you’re a fan of pitch black dark romance, enemies-to-lovers vibes, complicated relationships, and characters who bring ALL the torture definitely add this one to your TBR! 🖤🔥
4 stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The messed up relationship between Lola and Body was INSANE. One minute I wanted to scream at them, the next I was completely invested in their story. Their history, their hurt, and all the things left unsaid made their relationship so messy, complicated, and impossible to look away from.
There was so much emotional rage and enough tension to keep me invested even when I thought there was no redemption. They did the most awful things to each other. I was still hoping.
If you’re a fan of pitch black dark romance, enemies-to-lovers vibes, complicated relationships, and characters who bring ALL the torture definitely add this one to your TBR! 🖤🔥
4 stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story broke my heart over and over again. This is a pitch black dark romance, check the triggers because things get descriptive.
From the beginning, I held my breath, wanted to throw the book, cried and so much more. The characters go through so much, it's a very emotional read.
Lola, the FMC goes through so much trauma, survival, and violence. Brody, the MMC has so much violence in him, revenge is his to take.
The darkness that you read about in the story, the things that happen to Lola & Brody made me feel so many feelings for them. I kept wanting to yell at both characters, multiple times throughout the book.
The rawness, vulnerability, pain, heartache and violence in this story is not for the faint of heart.
From the beginning, I held my breath, wanted to throw the book, cried and so much more. The characters go through so much, it's a very emotional read.
Lola, the FMC goes through so much trauma, survival, and violence. Brody, the MMC has so much violence in him, revenge is his to take.
The darkness that you read about in the story, the things that happen to Lola & Brody made me feel so many feelings for them. I kept wanting to yell at both characters, multiple times throughout the book.
The rawness, vulnerability, pain, heartache and violence in this story is not for the faint of heart.
August 17, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you’re looking for warm and fuzzy, you got off at the wrong stop!.
This is a make sure you eat all of your carrots just to be able to see in the pitch blackness of this book.
It’s a hundred percent NOT for the those recently dabbling their toes in the world of dark romance. I would highly recommend reading the trigger warnings because they’re hefty, but I’m so far down the darkness rabbit hole, I literally ate this book up.
Brody and Lola’s story is one of obsession that turns to love. It’s toxic, full of feelings of hatred but it’s written so well that you’ll find yourself rooting for the characters even in their darkest moments.
It’s unhinged, traumatic, at times emotionally devastating but completely addictive all in one. Don’t say I didn’t warn you 🖤
If you’re looking for warm and fuzzy, you got off at the wrong stop!.
This is a make sure you eat all of your carrots just to be able to see in the pitch blackness of this book.
It’s a hundred percent NOT for the those recently dabbling their toes in the world of dark romance. I would highly recommend reading the trigger warnings because they’re hefty, but I’m so far down the darkness rabbit hole, I literally ate this book up.
Brody and Lola’s story is one of obsession that turns to love. It’s toxic, full of feelings of hatred but it’s written so well that you’ll find yourself rooting for the characters even in their darkest moments.
It’s unhinged, traumatic, at times emotionally devastating but completely addictive all in one. Don’t say I didn’t warn you 🖤
August 17, 2026
Make sure you read the trigger warnings for this book!
Shattered in Darkness by Donna Kessler ARC Review
This book is absolutely pitch black, packed with trauma, violence, a morally grey MMC, strong FMC, & a completely soulless villain. All which I loved. As heartbreaking as some of the things Lola had to endure in this book were it was so much better seeing her become such a strong woman and finding her love.
Brody and Lola go through the most unimaginable things in life, they find each other at a young age and are torn apart, then find each other again. I do wish that there was more communication between the two of them because it could have prevented so much pain. There was so much happening. For a while I wasn't sure they were going to get their HEA.
Shattered in Darkness by Donna Kessler ARC Review
This book is absolutely pitch black, packed with trauma, violence, a morally grey MMC, strong FMC, & a completely soulless villain. All which I loved. As heartbreaking as some of the things Lola had to endure in this book were it was so much better seeing her become such a strong woman and finding her love.
Brody and Lola go through the most unimaginable things in life, they find each other at a young age and are torn apart, then find each other again. I do wish that there was more communication between the two of them because it could have prevented so much pain. There was so much happening. For a while I wasn't sure they were going to get their HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
If you liked Red Rabbit or the Edge of Darkness trilogy, I think you will love this book. This is SUPER DARK so check the content warnings before going in.
Shattered in Darkness explores themes of trauma, abuse, and the lasting impact that those can have on a person. Lola is just trying to make it through life after the death of her mother and being left in the hands of her stepfather. Brody, her neighbor and best friend's brother, is struggling with his emotions and anger but has a soft spot for Lola. The novel starts with them already having gone their separate ways but as we learn why, it becomes apparent there have been some major misunderstandings and the love between them is still there. If only they can survive each other and themselves.
If you liked Red Rabbit or the Edge of Darkness trilogy, I think you will love this book. This is SUPER DARK so check the content warnings before going in.
Shattered in Darkness explores themes of trauma, abuse, and the lasting impact that those can have on a person. Lola is just trying to make it through life after the death of her mother and being left in the hands of her stepfather. Brody, her neighbor and best friend's brother, is struggling with his emotions and anger but has a soft spot for Lola. The novel starts with them already having gone their separate ways but as we learn why, it becomes apparent there have been some major misunderstandings and the love between them is still there. If only they can survive each other and themselves.
Review of advance copy received from Author
~~ARC REVIEW INCOMING~~
Holy ripped open and raw.
This book had me nearly in tears from the first damn chapter. It is definitely not something to go in lightly to, definitely more pitch black than morally grey, but gave me everything I needed it too. There was spice, and murder and general fucked upness but in the best kind of way. I really enjoyed the dual POV and hearing both Brody and Lola's inner thoughts. Lola breaks my heart and I just want to give her a big hug
Chapter 13 🥵🥵🥵 has me in a chokehold and I might literally never recover.
Definitely recommend if you need some Darker romance with a broken FMC and an overprotective MMC.
4 well earned stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Holy ripped open and raw.
This book had me nearly in tears from the first damn chapter. It is definitely not something to go in lightly to, definitely more pitch black than morally grey, but gave me everything I needed it too. There was spice, and murder and general fucked upness but in the best kind of way. I really enjoyed the dual POV and hearing both Brody and Lola's inner thoughts. Lola breaks my heart and I just want to give her a big hug
Chapter 13 🥵🥵🥵 has me in a chokehold and I might literally never recover.
Definitely recommend if you need some Darker romance with a broken FMC and an overprotective MMC.
4 well earned stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received ARC from author ❣️
I think i need to sit on this one to process what I read. PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD read the trigger warnings. Home girl was not kidding when she said this was pitch black.
I am torn between giving this 3 or 4 stars. The plot is dark, the characters have no happiness, just pain and it was fast paced. I wish there was more relatablilty with the FMC and MMC. By the time you are sucked in, they both just felt like robots to me. When I got to the character arc, I was kinda like, well...ok....
If you love dark stories and spice, you'll enjoy this one! Stay away if you aren't a dark romance reader 🤪
I think i need to sit on this one to process what I read. PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD read the trigger warnings. Home girl was not kidding when she said this was pitch black.
I am torn between giving this 3 or 4 stars. The plot is dark, the characters have no happiness, just pain and it was fast paced. I wish there was more relatablilty with the FMC and MMC. By the time you are sucked in, they both just felt like robots to me. When I got to the character arc, I was kinda like, well...ok....
If you love dark stories and spice, you'll enjoy this one! Stay away if you aren't a dark romance reader 🤪
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars for how unhinged this book was!
First thing, I loved this book! If you're looking for a hero, you won't find one here. When the author said "pitch black" she meant it. The trauma and abuse our FMC endures at the hands of people who are supposed to protect her is heartbreaking. Our MMC is unhinged, possessive, and cruel (not in a sexy red flag sort of way). I went through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this. We get action, revenge, first love gone wrong, twists, chaos and loads of trauma that will stick with our characters, and myself, forever. If you love morally black characters and extremely dark stories, this book is for you.
First thing, I loved this book! If you're looking for a hero, you won't find one here. When the author said "pitch black" she meant it. The trauma and abuse our FMC endures at the hands of people who are supposed to protect her is heartbreaking. Our MMC is unhinged, possessive, and cruel (not in a sexy red flag sort of way). I went through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this. We get action, revenge, first love gone wrong, twists, chaos and loads of trauma that will stick with our characters, and myself, forever. If you love morally black characters and extremely dark stories, this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I throughly enjoyed this read. Please read your trigger before starting this, it does contain darker themes border line on pitch black romance. This story follows Lola and Brody. This story gets dark and dark quick with Lola getting abused and losing herself by the day. Brody is obsessed from the start, Lola will be his everything and anything because forever is simple in his eyes and consumes above everything else. I loved the characters within this book due to how realistic at times they could be. This book is not only engaging but will have you gripped until the very last page. Highly Recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC reader review.
🚨 please check the trigger list before jumping in 🚨
This is an emotionally heavy book that is full of difficult subject matter that can be rough for sensitive readers. And if you have no triggers (like myself), enjoy the ride.
This book is so good. It kept me up late for "just one more chapter", which turned into several. The pace of the story is great- never too slow and never too fast. It was also the perfect amount of pitch black.
Lola's and Brody's stories gripped my heart and didn't let go. At times, I wanted to reach into this book and give them hugs.
🚨 please check the trigger list before jumping in 🚨
This is an emotionally heavy book that is full of difficult subject matter that can be rough for sensitive readers. And if you have no triggers (like myself), enjoy the ride.
This book is so good. It kept me up late for "just one more chapter", which turned into several. The pace of the story is great- never too slow and never too fast. It was also the perfect amount of pitch black.
Lola's and Brody's stories gripped my heart and didn't let go. At times, I wanted to reach into this book and give them hugs.
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