Ghost Marked: A Dark Captive Romance

by A.V. Blackmoor

The Logan x Lia duet She was the most popular girl in high school. Then she vanished without a trace. I joined the mafia and convinced myself I'd buried her.

Then one day, they made me hunt her.

She's a mafia princess now, unwillingly married off to the capo's son. I found her in the woods with a baby in her arms. I claimed her.

They don't know I own her. I always have. And I'll destroy the mafia and everything they stand for before I let them take her from me again.

A duet in the Devil Universe featuring Logan and Lia. Can be read independently from the other duets. Contains very dark, triggering content.

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark

378 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication July 15, 2026

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advance copy of this book from the author. This book has trigger warnings and I suggest you read the warning before you start the book. Lia and Logan have a complicated relationship and let me tell you, the smut is hot 🥵 the story is full of surprises and all the emotions that one roller coaster can give you. Logan has loved Lia since they first met in school and she’s absolutely horrible to him. He joins the mafia and so the adventure begins. I will not spoil it but I’m so not happy with the cliffhanger and I’m now impatiently waiting for book two.Bring it on.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw the tropes listed for Ghost Marked, I almost passed. These aren't usually my go-to, but something made me give it a chance and I am so glad I did.

This book genuinely surprised me. A.V. Blackmoor does an incredible job balancing action and emotion. The pacing never felt rushed or slow and I found myself completely absorbed in Logan and Lia's story. Their history is heartbreaking and complicated in all the best ways and the push and pull between them had me hooked from the start. Logan is a character you'll have a lot of feelings about, and the backstory woven throughout the narrative added so much depth to their dynamic.

A heads-up: this is a very dark romance. Please do yourself a favor and check the trigger warnings before diving in. Blackmoor doesn't hold back. But if you're going in prepared, it's an absolutely gripping read.

As for the ending… buckle up. It's one heck of a cliffhanger. I won't say more than that, but I genuinely didn't see it coming and now I desperately need book two.

Highly recommend for dark romance fans.

I received an ARC of this book via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Hailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ARC from booksirens thank you to the Author as well for the opportunity. I am writing this review voluntarily.

This is the second book I’ve read from A.V. Blackmoor and yes her work is incredibly dark (check those TW) but it is so well done that her characters are so multidimensional not just Lia and Logan but Especially Damien, you could hate them one moment and be swooning over them the next. Ghost Marked I would highly recommend if you love dark and intense stories with a semi bully romance with mafia ties vibe this book is for you. Also that freaking cliffhanger I am not okay but that’s the lovely thing is you will want more of this story. Ps this Author just has incredible writing skills that just keep you glued to the story, well done.

[Melanboog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d say this book was a 4.5 star, so I rounded up. I really enjoyed learning more about Logan, and Damien’s friendship. It explains so much about how they acted it the previous books. I didn’t love the fmc (Lia) she felt kind of one note, and needed a few more brain cells. That being said it’s likely due to how she was raised. It’s just surprising as her daughter is so smart. The spice was really well done, and I really enjoyed the plot. The balance between the two was very well done. I can’t wait to read the second part of this duet! Best book in this universe so far imo.

[Kimsararh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author.

I’m not usually a fan of a mafia setting but I loved this book. It was really well written, with great plot and filthy spice! The tension between the characters was soo good and I loved the dark elements to both their pasts. If you’re into dark romance, I really recommend this book.

[Kaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE ENDING?!!!😫😫😭 i need to know what happens next!!!! 10/10 read highly recommend perfect amount of spice and emotion you will be hooked. The chemistry between the MMC and the FMC is chefs kiss

[MissJLovesReading · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 dark, unhinged stars.

Well, I went into this one not really having many expectations and boy did it make me feel conflicted! This one's about the FMC and MMC who meet in first grade, when the guy immediately falls for the girl, but the girl is awful to him. This continues right through to high school, where the backstory ends when they're 15. The FMC decides to lash out and hurt the MMC by taking herself to a dodgy bar in their dangerous home town, where a local Mafia family are, and go in, against the wishes (and begging) of the MMC. She ends up getting violated, and the guy gets beaten to within an inch of his life when he tries to stop her. This is when he decides he's done trying with her but secretly stalks her anyway, regardless of his fuming hatred for her. The girl gets forced to marry the man who violates her, and she is pregnant because of this. Then we skip to two years later when she is on the run with her toddler to escape the husband and his Mafia family. Logan, the MMC, is tasked with bringing her back since he now works for the same family she is running from, and the story explodes from there.

I found this book to be highly engaging, I read it in 48 hours and found I couldn't really put it down. I didn't think it would be quite as dark as it was, but there are trigger warnings and a note from the author at the start, so ensure you read those first. This is not a 'Lights out' type of dark romance. I believe the author described it as pitch-black. I also learned about a new kink in this book too, and I will never be able to look at carrot cake the same way again.

I enjoyed the banter between the main characters, and I really enjoyed two of the side characters, Damien and Everest; they were like a balm to a burn, when the other characters always showed such violence and cruelty. The spice was frequent and spicy, definitely explicit, and sometimes had me questioning the sanity of the FMC. The trouble I had with the book was with Lia, the FMC. She was so incredibly mean as a child and stupidly cruel for no reason. She was also naive and honestly dumb, the whole way through the book. She had the survival instincts of a wet paper towel. I found her use of the 'asshole' insult to be way, way overdone. It became a frustration for me, and if you were to take a drink every time you read that word, you would be completely plastered by the end. Logan got off on her tears and pain, which was...interesting. However, he did become very protective and loving towards he by the end of the book. Well, as loving as he's able to be, with their history and unusual kinks. Logan was a lot more worldly than Lia and quite intelligent, regardless of his awful upbringing, so that was good to read, but Lia was annoying a lot of the book. And she absolutely, positively needed therapy. Lots and lots of it. Actually, send all the characters to therapy while you're at it, and maybe me too, after reading some of those scenes!

Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-arc of Ghost Hunted. All opinions are 100% honest and completely my own.

[Inês Ramos · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was completely hooked on Ghost Marked by A. V. Blackmoor and ended up reading it in just two days. From the very first chapter, I found myself unable to put it down. This is one of those books that pulls you into its world and refuses to let go, leaving you thinking about the characters long after you’ve finished reading.

Where it all starts
Set in the small town of Oakley, Ghost Marked follows Lia and Logan, two characters with a complicated past and an even more complicated present. Their relationship is filled with tension, conflict, and undeniable chemistry, creating a captivating dynamic that kept me invested from beginning to end. Every interaction between them felt charged with emotion, and I was constantly eager to see what would happen next.

The characters
One of the things I loved most about this book was the character development. Both Lia and Logan are flawed, complex characters who have been shaped by their experiences and struggles. As their stories unfold, you gain a deeper understanding of who they are and what drives them. I found myself becoming more attached to them with every chapter.
The supporting cast also deserves recognition. The friendships, loyalties, and relationships between the characters add depth to the story and help make the world feel believable. Each character serves a purpose, and I enjoyed seeing how their stories intertwined with the main plot.

The Mafia
Another aspect I really enjoyed was the mafia element. It adds an underlying sense of danger and unpredictability to the story, making it difficult to know who can be trusted or what might happen next. The combination of romance, suspense, and darker themes creates a gripping atmosphere that keeps the pages turning.


The writing itself is incredibly engaging. A. V. Blackmoor does a fantastic job of balancing emotional moments with suspenseful scenes, ensuring that the story never feels slow. I was fully immersed in the world and found myself completely invested in the characters’ journeys.
As a dark romance, this book explores themes that won’t be for every reader, including obsession, possessiveness, and morally grey characters. However, if these are elements you enjoy in your romances, I think you’ll find a lot to love here. The intensity of the story and the emotional stakes made it a memorable read for me.

Final Thoughts
Ghost Marked was an addictive and captivating start to a duology that has left me desperate for more. Between the compelling characters, emotional tension, dark romance elements, and intriguing mafia storyline, there was never a moment when I wasn’t fully invested.
The ending left me needing answers and counting down the days until I can pick up the next book. If you’re a fan of dark romance, enemies-to-lovers dynamics, BDSM, mafia romance, morally grey characters, and stories packed with tension and emotion, I would definitely recommend adding Ghost Marked to your reading list.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to BookSprout and the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to start by saying… I DEVOURED this book.

I finished it in a single day because I could not put it down. I had to know what happened next. Honestly, you had me at a morally black MMC.

And the spice? 10/10.

One thing I really appreciated was how the story took the time to build its characters. Instead of simply telling us Logan was obsessed or explaining Lia’s past through exposition, we actually experienced those moments through their POVs. That made both characters feel much more authentic and helped me connect with them.

The spice was also chef’s kiss. In this genre, it’s surprisingly difficult to find books where the spice feels both well written and meaningful. It often ends up either incredibly well done or unintentionally cringey, with very little middle ground. Here, the chemistry between the MCs made every scene feel earned, and the romance added to the story instead of taking away from it.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was that Logan was truly morally black. I feel like many authors soften their dark romance because they’re afraid readers will think they’ve gone too far. Logan never lost that darkness, and I loved that. Even as his relationship with Lia evolved, he remained obsessive, dangerous, and completely committed to the person he loved.

From the moment the story opened with a mother running away with her daughter, I knew this book was going to pull at my heartstrings. Aurora was handled so well. She wasn’t simply used as a plot device—she felt like an important part of the story. As a mom myself, I found myself constantly thinking, “She better be fed!” and “Someone better be buying this little girl toys!” I appreciated that the author continually reminded us Aurora was being cared for, even while the darker parts of the story unfolded. It made those family moments feel genuine.

There wasn’t much that pulled me out of the story. If I had one critique, it’s that I would have happily read a longer version. I wanted more time to explore the mob, Logan’s role within it, and the dynamics between him and his friends. Expanding those elements would have raised the stakes even further and added more depth to an already engaging story.

Overall, I loved that this book delivered both an addictive plot and incredible chemistry between the characters. It struck a great balance between dark romance and genuine emotional investment.

I cannot wait to see what happens next. I’ve grown attached to these characters, and I’ll definitely be picking up the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 Ghostmarked by A.V. Blackmoor
ARC received from the author—thank you!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

⚠️ Please read the trigger warnings! I, however, continue to ignore them and walk into books like a raccoon digging through a dumpster looking for emotional support. I don’t recommend living life this way… but here we are.


A.V. Blackmoor specifically asked reviewers not to write an essay, so I’m fighting every urge in my body to yap.( sorry but I think I may have yapped)

This book follows Logan and Lia.

When Logan sees Lia for the first time in elementary school, he instantly goes “she’s mine”

Logan is basically an orphan, he’s got foster parents that could care less about him. The only person that Logan has in his corner is Damien- and let’s just say that’s questionable.

Lia in elementary may or may not have liked Logan ( emphasis on might). Fast forward to highschool and Lia upgrades herself to Logan’s number one hater.

And because Logan is apparently allergic to self-preservation, he still loves her.

Then Lia betrays him, leaving him with a concussion, broken bones.

…Except this book said, “Cute. You thought the suffering was over?”

Lia’s life spirals into its own nightmare. She’s abused and forced to marry her abuser. When she finally tries to escape, the boy who once loved her catches her instead.

Captivity? ✔️
Obsession? ✔️
Questionable decisions? ✔️
Me kicking my feet while whispering, “This is so messed up…”? Also ✔️.


These two somehow manage to fall in love all over again in the middle of absolute chaos…

Ana to top it all off the book ends on a cliffhanger. Now you’ll find me dramatically staring out my windows until book 2 comes out.

Thank you Av blackmoor for letting me read this as an arc, it was my first book of yours and I will be looking to adding more books to my never ending TBR. Rip to my bank account!

[Beth Massingham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewing as an ARC...

AV Blackmoor delivers exactly what they say, dark both physically and sexually. So please READ THE WARNINGS.
That being said, if they float your boat then definitely give this your time and attention! As this story has plenty of action, in every way. It starts with fear, Blackmoor gets you into the mind set of Lia who is running with her daughter. We then meet Logan, hot headed, angry and born to murder anyone who looked at Lia. They have a lot of history, none of it pretty. Lia is married to someone very important within the mafia, while Logan has worked his way up through ranks and has some very tight friendships. (I need to read about Damien). Lia has managed to escape her abusive Husband, but runs into Logan. As you can imagine it massively impacts them and their future. Whatever that is, Logan is more than happy to keep her as his until his dying breath. They fight, argue, and catch up on old times as they are both hiding secrets preventing their epic love. I love the character development of these both. They have a powerful lust, and a lifetime of mistakes. Even though they are young.

The spicy scenes are SPICY. The smut is smutting. Enough to make you cover your eyes, maybe once or twice. It can be heavy, cheeky, lustful and a (small amount of) times felt unnecessary which is my only reason for the 4 stars. However it is written well, plenty of right hitting spots. If you catch me?

I fully enjoyed this book, the cliff hanger is off the scale! I cannot wait for the 2nd book. However Blackmoor's books are set in the same universe, so I'm off to read the others as this is my first dip into this world. And I am here for the ride. Thank you!

[Arin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really excited to have received an advanced copy of this book via BookFunnel. So, firstly, thanks so much to the author for having this book as an ARC. Now, let's get into the review.

First and foremost, make sure to read the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. They are fairly heavy and mentioned throughout the book.

Next, when I tell you I could hardly put this book down? I couldn't put it down. Logan and Lia's relationship, despite their complicated past, kept me on my toes. The consistent push and pull between the main characters amongst the smut kept me hooked. Not to mention, the friendship between Logan and Damien. I didn't find myself bored or wanting to skip parts. A.V. Blackmoor does an excellent job at mixing plot with smut.

The mafia aspects of this book also kept me intrigued. The suspense of not knowing what's going to happen next mixed with the thrill of 'what if' had me on the edge of my seat.

The main characters are well-written and absolutely flawed. There is no picture perfect with these two. I will also mention that the supporting characters make the story just as enjoyable, and I enjoyed the relationships you see develop between them and Lia. Between friendship, loyalties, and everything in the middle, it is enough to keep you guessing as you get closer to the end of the book.

Overall, this book was addicting and kept me reading. As I got to the end of the book and got to the cliffhanger, I was left wanting more. I have to know what happens next in this duology and plan on grabbing the next book (as well as a physical copy of this one). I would certainly recommend this book for those who enjoy dark romance with a bratty FMC and an obsessed MMC who have a complex relationship filled with emotion.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since she was 7, Lia has noticed the boy in her class watching her, and made him pay for it. When they were 15, she took things a step too far, and has been paying for it ever since. 3 years later, she managed to escape from the son of the mafia don, with her daughter in her arms, only to be found by the boy she tormented. He claims he’s going to bring her back to her abusive husband, but will make her pay for every mistake she’s ever made first.

When he was 7, Logan decided that Lia belonged to him, and that hasn’t changed in the years since. Even when she did the unforgiveable, she was still his, while wearing another man’s ring. But Logan is no longer the heartsick boy who followed her around, now he’s the hardened man she left in her wake, and with her in his grasp, he won’t let her go.

I received an early copy of this book from the author and absolutely loved it! With all the darkness I’ve come to expect from her work, the storyline here captivated me right from the beginning. Having read the devil and monster duets, I loved that this one was set long before DEVIL got its name, and gave us a glimpse of some of the characters we’ve come to know in the after. There was always something different about Logan’s relationship with Damien, so getting to see its origin story gave a different perspective to their dynamic. Logan and Lia may seem like the most unlikely pair, but somehow they’re both broken sides of the same soul, only able to heal when they come together in all their chaos. After the revelations at the end of monster’s claim, I was eagerly waiting to see more of Piper’s origin story.

[Lucy Weeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐ ARC Review

First of all, thank you to the author for the ARC and the chance to read this early!

Check the trigger warnings. This book does not hold back. The romance is dark, the smut is darker, and the themes can be heavy.

If you love mafia romance, enemies-to-lovers, morally grey characters, and an MMC who falls first, this is definitely one to pick up.

What really surprised me was how emotionally invested I became. The more layers of the characters' past trauma were revealed, the more attached I got. I especially found myself drawn to the FMC's struggle with questioning whether she's a bad mother while doing absolutely everything she can to protect her daughter. Those moments added so much depth to the story.

The sense of danger and urgency runs throughout the book, keeping the tension high and making it hard to put down. Every revelation seemed to raise the stakes even further.

The relationship is complicated, messy, and far from perfect, but that's exactly what made it so compelling. Watching these characters navigate their trauma, choices, and feelings kept me completely hooked.

And the ENDING?! I need answers immediately. That cliffhanger left me staring at my Kindle wondering what just happened and how I'm supposed to wait for book two.

If you're looking for a super dark romance with mafia elements, morally grey characters, intense chemistry, and high stakes, I'd highly recommend giving this one a try.

Now excuse me while I desperately wait for book two because I NEED answers. 👀🔥📖

[᭄Ina࿐♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overal rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Spice rating 🌶🌶🌶¾

Ghost Marked is a captor/captive spicy romance novel. The book takes place from when the main characters are 7 up to 20/21, and is divided into three parts.

Part 1 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) is focused on the main characters' back stories up to the age of 16. I really appreciated these chapters and the context they provided to each character. I could not get enough and felt like the book was off to a great start. However, based on some of the reveals later in the book (no spoilers here) I did wish that there were atleast some hints that all might not be what they seem.

Part 2 (⭐️⭐️) takes place two years after part one. I found this part to be 85% smut and 15% plot, which to some might not be an issue but I really struggled through them. I found the fmc to be unrelatable and whiney at times and the mmc only capable of thinking with his.. yknow...

HOWEVER, once you realise that the characters are still just teenagers with teenage hormones and teenage critical thinking skills, these chapters make a lot more sense and are easier to get through.

Part 3 (⭐️⭐️⭐️) was the climax of the book for me. At this point I found the characters more well rounded, despite making some questionable decisions at times and was fully invested in the book again.

The book ended on a cliffhanger that left me with so many questions and a desperate need for the next book. I need to know that my boy Everest is okay!

One last question that I am begging to know the answer to is.. WHAT SHAPE WAS THE ICECUBES!(iykyk)

[Twisted Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you read something and you have to sit for 5 minutes staring into the void questioning your life choices because you're emotionally traumatised? That's where I am right now. 


What a rollercoaster. This book kicked my anxiety in the face from the first page and from then on I have trusted no one. I have suspected every single character of being a double agent at some point whilst reading this book and I was more than happy to write Delores off at the gas station when I thought she might be a spy for the mafia.


Lia is a complex character that did irritate me at times but I think my expectations of her were probably too high as I often forgot how young she actually was - the trauma she'd experienced alongside the maternal side of her character made her seem older than her 18 years. That said, the way she talks to Logan at times is very "mean girls" and she often doesn't think about the consequences of her actions- which is how Logan got 27 broken bones in the first place! 


I absolutely loved watching Logan's character development from childhood sweetheart, to mafia thug to family man...and how both he and the reader realised just how far he would go to protect the woman he loves. 


The spice. GOOD GRIEF the spice. It is plentiful. It is spicy. You don't want anyone reading over your shoulder when you read this book.


In the words of Mrs Bennett, A V Blackmoor had no respect for my nerves reading this book and that cliffhanger was worthy of an EastEnders Christmas special.

[Brenda Lizbeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

First and Foremost Thank You to the Author for letting me read this!
This book had a lot of important trigger warnings and trust, they are important to pay attention too!

This is an Arc read and I do have conflicting feelings about it.
The book has a lot of potential, but its 90% Smut and 10% Plot and i think thats where the problem lies. It starts off so interesting and I wish the story line didn't feel so rushed once the Main characters grow up. i also wish the main characters were explained a little better. They F**k like bunnies even while on the run and it kinda ruins the seriousness of the mafia wanting them dead. I wish that it felt like they truly cared for eachother but the MMC just wants to dominate and make her cry and then claims to love her while she tries to survive and is scared and helpless but also the FMC just wants to have sexy time with him even though shes terrified for her life and lies to his face about everything.

Dont get me wrong, I love me a spicy scene but at some point you gotta draw a line because many of these scenese were unnecessary. I almost felt objectified for her. Also there are so many repetitive words with the name calling! (Lia my girl, there are other bad words to call people!)

The entire thing was kinda messy and the only characters I cared for were the daughter and her mafia bodyguard/Nanny named Everest cause he was the only person who had common sense and they were super cute together.

Fingers crossed that book 2 can explain a lot of the mess. 🤞

[Katherine Schimpf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book I’ve read by A.V. Blackmoor….Who doesn’t want to know what happens to each of the DEVIL boys?

We are learning about Logan and Lia….normally you have the guy who bullies the girl, but this time Lia is the aggressor…Logan is starting his first day at school, and while other parents are fussing over their kids, Logan is just there alone were he is a foster child, but he does meet Damien, who becomes his best friend…and for 7 years things are good…..until Grade 7, and Lia is now entering the picture, and has become very aware of Logan and how he can make her blush (at least thats what her friends point out to her). Over the years Lia and Logan maneuver through different scenarios, but the night that does things in is when she tells Logan shes been with other guys and gets him beat up by the bar bouncers….but that night takes a turn for the worst….Logan is injured badly and Lia ends up with a child. Fast forward many years Logan has become more of a man, by bulking up and is now holding Lia captive for her husband because she thought she could leave. Logan is now forced to come to terms of what has happened in the past while either growing to like Lia or hate her.

This story ends on a cliff hanger, so we are left wondering if they will get their HEA or if something else happens. Remember to check trigger warnings before picking up the book.

[Yasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. God. what a read!!!! i read this in 2 sittings and let me tell you, she is FILTHY! This book had a bit of everything that i love in a book, we have mafia, the filthiest smut i've read in a while, the whole 'what did he do to you' thing, touch her and die.
i loved how as much as the smut is a bit part of the book it still has a solid story line that we follow and its not just mindless sex all the time. i like how we feel like logan is a danger to lia but ends up being just a softie deep deep down, and that he ends up caring for aurora the way that he does. i dont want to spoil too much of the story so im going to go back to the spice of it because the variations of kink we get in this book blew my mind, i can see how for some people it could come across as too much so obvs read triggers warnings but everything about it was perfect to my taste, especially the whole back door play if you get what i mean 👀 i havent come across many books that include in such a way this book did.
Also the ending wtf the cliff hanger i am hanging on right now like give me book 2 right now? i need to know what happens i am too invested 😂😂😂

Overall 5 star read i highly recommend this book.

[Mary Gallitano · Rating 5 out of 5]

"My little captive. That's what you are, and what you always will be."
I'm a huge fan of A.V.'s writing and I think I've read everything she's written, Ghost Marked is her classic dark, dark romance with an obsessed male lead, and a female lead who's attracted, but conflicted. Their relationship is toxic as can be, but the s*x is hot.
Do read the Trigger Warnings! She's not kidding.
Logan has been obsessed with Lia since literally first grade. She's rude and nasty to him, and actually gets him beaten up brutally at one point.
She ends up getting abused, and then pregnant. Her father marries her off to her abuser who isn't the best of husbands! When she runs from him - she reconnects with Logan and their journey together avoiding the mafia is the balance of the book.
Logan's so morally grey he's almost black. He's the kind of guy who says "no one will hurt my woman except me".
Having read A.V.s other books, this was a great backstory to the Devil's Duet and the friendship among the 5 men. But it's also 100% stand alone and you don't need to have read any of her other books.
There is a Cliff-Hanger! A.V. - why do you do that to us? But the second book will be out soon and of course I'll be reading it ASAP.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing I will say before starting my review is Please Read The Trigger Warnings before starting this book. This is a very graphic compelling story, that is difficult to read in places. Lia doesn't have anyone in her corner. Her mother stayed in Ireland, and let her husband take their daughter back to the States. Lia's life is complicated to say the least. Throughout school she made Logan her personal person to humiliate. Until that changes after Damien takes revenge. Now she's married to a man she hates, with a daughter of her own. Until she runs. Logan took everything she threw at him. But now he's on a mission to find her and return her to her husband. Except he's spent the last two years trying to move on from his feelings for her. But she married the first man who wasnt him. How can he still have such intense feelings for her. This story grips you straightaway and your hooked, even though parts are hard to read. Can Lia finally get away from her husband. What will Logan do if he finds her. Is the truth ever going to come out about what happened. Just who is the real enemy. This story ends on a cliffhanger that has you needing the next book now. This is the first time I've read this author and I'll certainly be looking for more.

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Ghost Marked: A Dark Captive Romance
Author: A.V. Blackmoor
Release Date: July 15, 2026
Genre: Dark Romance
Trope: Possessive MMC, Mafia, Duet
This is a prequel to the Monster’s Prey duet. I think that if you are going to read the series, that you should read Ghost Marked first, I think the cliff hanger would have had more impact. The relationship between the FMC & MMC gives ‘generational trauma’ when compare to what we know about the MP duet. Given the FMC’s history we can understand her distrust and fear. I feel that considering the amount of time that passes during book 1 (2-3 years) she would have grown somewhat but her character seems to be stuck in the past, not willing to heal or accept her current circumstances and it was a bit frustrating. We are starting to find out how Devil was formed and I am looking forward to the next book. As always AVB’s characters are written well, the story is easy to read and isn’t lacking in story. This one has a bit more spice to it but fit into the story and the character relationship.
Triggers: I don’t have any but if you do, be good to yourself and make sure this one is for you.
I received an ARC for free from the Author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alana Bittersweet Chapters Aus · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Ghost Marked
A.V Blackmoor thank you so much for the ARC.

Ghost Duet Series- Book 1

✨This title will be released on today! ✨Happy Release Day 🥂

Predictive Text: my favourite hiding spot is…..

Logan has liked Lia since primary school and she was just so mean and wouldn’t give him the time of day. The characters were so complex and flawed but captivated me with this story. The book kept me on my toes and loved the suspense and tension. There was a couple of parts I didn’t see coming.This book ends on a cliffhanger but there isn’t long to wait as book 2, Ghost Hunted comes out on 27 August 2026. Would definitely recommend for my Dark Romance Lovers.

Words and moments that linger:

🧁“She’s not some girl, Damien. She’s mine.”

🧁“The twenty-seven broken bones were nothing,” I continue. “I would’ve broken every single bone in my body if it meant protecting you. I still would, Lia.”

🧁“I’ve loved you from the moment I set eyes on you in first grade, and I never stopped. I never will stop. I promise you that.”

🧁Birthday cake scene 🔥🔥

Tropes:
- captor/captive
- mafia
- forced proximity
- possessive obsession
- morally grey MMC
- revenge
- found family

[Booktokita · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5🌟 ARC Review

I’ve been waiting for Logan’s story! But I did not and I repeat did not expect the darkness he truly possessed! I knew he had it in him but this was more than I thought and all I could think was where is my calm and collected man? Showing me his true characteristics that’s where lol
Lia’s story also took me by surprise. I don’t know what I really expected based from the previous duet. But this was so much more but in a good way! At the end of the day I think she’s a strong FMC when she has the opportunity.
Logan & Lia together wooof… toxic really lol I was so mad with the scene outside the club and then finding out what really happened in the club also got me mad!
Also the scene with the ice… and the one with the soap… and the one wax… 😮‍💨
I think A.V. Is definitely a queen of non HEA cliffhangers, I know going into it I expect them but the way they happen, I’m never quite prepared for it!
Writing wise, I do feel this one had a lot more repetitiveness especially in the nickname/name calling aspect.

[Sammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review from reading ARC Copy from Author.

This being my first Dark Mafia Romance book I wasn't sure what I was getting into. It was a lot but it was a good easy read.
Following Lia and Logan through a Captor/Captive trope was interesting. At the start of the book I really loved how we seen the 2 characters grow to hate each other. Throughout the book there's Stockholm Syndrome and it was mint!! The spice 😍
The hatred between Logan (MMC) and Lia (MFC) is intense. However throughout the book they slowly get along and begin to form a somewhat healthier relationship if you can call it that 😂
Not only does Logan begin to work out his relationship with Lia...he becomes quite attached to Aurora..Lias daughter.
Everest being one of the only blokes I liked in the book was sweet and caring when it came to Aurora and Lia...despite him being in the Mafia Gang himself.

I really liked this book. So many twists and turns. The ending of the book was a major cliff hanger. Cant wait for the next book.

[Dominique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ghost Marked is a dark mafia romance, and the first thing I’ll say is check the trigger warnings. This story is painful from beginning to end, packed with betrayal, heartbreak, love, and loads and loads of spice. Like… LOTS of spice.

Logan has loved Lia since first grade, while Lia spent years bullying him. When they reunite a few years later, the roles are reversed for a while before Logan slowly shows himself as the boy who loved her all along. Their relationship is messy, complicated, and filled with years of hurt, which made every emotional moment hit that much harder.

I also really loved the side characters, especially because they brought some humor to balance out such a heavy story. Logan is incredibly obsessive, possessive, and protective, and the chemistry between him and Lia is intense. And that ending… my heart was racing. The cliffhanger left me with so many questions, and my heart is literally aching to find out what happens.

Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book before the release.

[Fedythereader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!

First and foremost: CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS IN THIS BOOK !!!

This book was so dark. And yet so good. This is the epitome of using dark romance as a way to deal with your trauma and live again. The FMC could all but me a normal reader like us, experiencing an incredibly unsustainable amount of trauma, and falling in love with someone who helps her deal with it, while also giving it all to her like she wants it. Captor captive. Hate to love. Revenge. And a plot uniting two people who are obsessed with one another, and profoundly set on destroying each other too. Especially him. The level of possession and obsession and utter craziness he feels towards her will make you both unstable, irritated, scared and excited !! I devoured this book like it was a last meal I didn’t know I was having. Crazy. Unhinged. Dark. Unfiltered. And I can’t wait for the next one!

[Josie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was provided as an ARC read by the author

This is my first book by this author and wow, did it take me on a rollercoaster of emotions from the first page. When I say this is a dark romance, it is dark, so definitely read your trigger warnings.

I love the friendship and unwavering support dynamic between Damian and Logan

I was frustrated with how horrible Lia was to Logan initially but having a bit more insight to her upbringing, I could understand why and then felt sorry for her. Then they roles reversed it terms of cruelty.

This is one of the most complicated couples I’ve read about in a long while. I kept wanting to knock sense into both of them for not speaking their truths to each other but by being told by others. Which is why it was such a page turner. There is a good balance between action and emotions, and boy are we left on a cliffhanger so now waiting for book 2.

The spicy BDSM scenes are spicy and well written.

[Zoe Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read this book as an ARC from the author! So thank you 🥹

Logan is an orphan, kind of? He has a foster family but is left to fend for himself but his best friend Damien is always looking out for him, protecting, feeding and loving him. Then he meets Lia…

Lia is mouthy, loud and a popular kid at school. She bullies Logan and humiliates him one too many times until Damien takes his revenge on her for humiliating his best friend.
Despite this Logan still loves Lia.
Until one night Lia betrays him and leaves him with 27 broken bones. He’s left with no choice but to move on.

In that time Lia was abused and forced to marry her abuser until she’s forced to run away. Only to be caught by the boy who loved her as a child, but what happens throughout her captivity by him is wild..

They fall in love, once again.. Only to have it all taken away again.

The cliffhanger on this book drove me insane and I need book 2 immediately!!! 🖤🖤

[Tabitha Barberich · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for a review. This is my first time ever reading anything from A.V. Blackmoor.

We have our 2 main characters Lia & Logan who meet in elementary school. As soon as Logan lays eyes on Lia, he is instantly his. They go through school together and Lia is a bully towards him and Logan just takes it.

We skip until later in life and Logan is still in love with Lia even though some terrible things happened to him because of her.

I don't really like Lia in some aspects because she just moves from one captive to the other with her young daughter (although Logan is the better option).

We get to a point where Lia tells Logan she loves him and he instantly folds and becomes her boyfriend and the father to her daughter?? I feel that was a little weak in the plot line.

Overall, the book was good with lots of rough spice.

-touch her & you die
-mofia
-forced proximity