Wicked Sinners is not a romance for the faint of heart. It is a dark, emotional, and often disturbing origin story that explores the intense bond between Cameron Axley and Lakey, two damaged souls who have only ever had each other. From the opening pages, Harbor Groves establishes a brutal world filled with abuse, corruption, and survival, making this novella both heartbreaking and impossible to put down. One of the strongest aspects of the story is the relationship between Cam and Lakey. Their connection is obsessive, codependent, and morally questionable, yet it feels authentic within the dark world they inhabit. Cam's unwavering devotion to Lakey drives nearly every decision he makes, while Lakey's fierce determination and resilience make her a compelling heroine. Neither character is traditionally likable, but their loyalty to one another creates an emotional core that keeps readers invested.
The dual point of view allows readers to experience both characters' pain, anger, and desperation. The story does not shy away from difficult topics, including abuse, institutional cruelty, and psychological trauma. These elements contribute to the tragedy of their circumstances while highlighting the strength of their bond.
Harbor Groves also does an excellent job of building suspense. The hints of conspiracy, manipulation, and hidden forces operating behind the scenes create intrigue that extends beyond the romance. Readers are left with many questions and a strong desire to continue the Shattered Souls series.
The novella's biggest drawback for some readers may be its cliffhanger ending and the heavy emotional content. Those expecting a conventional romance or a happily-ever-after will likely be disappointed. However, readers who enjoy dark psychological romance, morally gray characters, antiheroes, and tragic love stories will find a gripping and unforgettable read.
Overall, Wicked Sinners is a powerful introduction to Cam and Lakey's story. It delivers intense emotions, compelling characters, and a dark atmosphere that lingers long after the final page. For fans of dark romance who appreciate complex, broken characters and an "us against the world" dynamic, this novella is highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Got Wicked Sinners as an ARC reader. It was an amazing read. To see the what Cam and Lakey went through was heartbreaking to read. Going through all that pain, torment, and years apart definitely set the first book up. I can't wait to read the first week to see when they eventually pick back up. How does the mysterious people who helped Cam and what exactly is happening in St. Agnes Home for Wayward Girls.
I was casually going through arcs, opened the preview and before I noticed I had read the whole novella! What an amazing starter for the series and I'm already waiting for the night to get into the next one! Cam and Lakey went through so much and it kinda broke my heart but the underlying current of hope kept it from going to depressing. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this arc!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Truly was like the author had noted. That this wasn't your typical romance. Absolute origin story of 2 people bonded in pain, trauma and struggle. 100% worth every moment I spent reading it with it's raw emotions and realistic darkness that 2 young people could experience. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book because this ended in a cliffhanger and I need to know what happens next!.
Wicked Sinners is the dark origin story of Cam and Lakey and sets the stage for the series to be a dark one with some spice between the characters later on. This is a quick dark read with no spice that shows how rough and how dark the later part of their childhoods were.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Everything Cam did was to protect her. Now they have to figure out how to stay alive and fighting until they meet again. This is setting up to be a fantastic read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This novella gave me sooo much!!! The background gave many details into their lives and why they felt the way they did about each other. I could feel the safety they brought each other. I can’t wait to read the next book!