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Venomous Desires: A Dark Bratva Mafia Romance

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A desperate student. A blind mafia heir. One ruthless deal in Russia could cost them everything.

Seraphina Rosewood is broke and unsure of her future. Arriving in Moscow from Texas with a mysterious scholarship, the penniless young woman is weighed down by a sense of duty to support her mother. But when a job ad leads her to a snowbound mansion, she steps straight into the path of a man whose world is built on danger and control.

Judas Romanovski is untouchable. From the moment the little bird applying for the caretaker position crosses his threshold, the blind mafia heir senses her fire and the quiet ache she tries to hide. And determined to make her a part of his orbit, he turns the interview into a ruthless power play that threatens to consume them both.

Even as Seraphina can’t help but be captivated by Judas’s terrifying intensity and the fragile tenderness hidden beneath his darkness, she might be nothing more than a pawn in his schemes. Drawn to the only woman who’s ever made him feel human, Judas fears his vicious world and his hunger could destroy her bright soul.

Will they survive the violence closing in on them and have a love fierce enough to defy the underworld?

Venomous Desires is the gripping first book in the Blind Desires mafia romance series. If you enjoy forced proximity, dangerous billionaire antiheroes, and slow-burn obsession, then you’ll love Luna Sads’ dark, intoxicating tale.

Start reading Venomous Desires and let the danger begin.

363 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2026

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LUNA SADS

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5 stars
62 (31%)
4 stars
53 (27%)
3 stars
31 (15%)
2 stars
27 (13%)
1 star
21 (10%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
Profile Image for Allia Reads (semi hiatus).
340 reviews153 followers
dnr-not-safe
August 10, 2026
Self note:

I asked the author on TikTok about the safety, and she said there are two scenes with OWD, and I asked what happened in those scenes, and this was her reply:

“One is a s€x scene but at that point, the main characters were not together, but when they got together, he never touched another woman 🫠”

Tbh, I don’t get the point of having OWD scenes just for the plot when it does nothing but give the readers an uncomfortable feeling, and this also makes me not touch this book.

https://i.postimg.cc/zvtQLPy7/IMG-117...
Profile Image for Raya.
45 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2026
Would've been five stars but that scene with the OW ruined it for me. I'll be reading the next book, though. Thank you Luna Sads for your amazing stories.
Profile Image for addictedtodarkromance.
552 reviews167 followers
July 1, 2026
 I loved this book! I read it in one go, and it kept me hooked from the beginning.

Seraphina arrives in Russia to attend school after receiving a mysterious scholarship. She is from Texas and is taking care of her mom financially, so she needs to earn as much money as she can. There is an ad for a nanny position that pays really well, and even though it's a little ominous, she accepts the offer to work for them.

Seraphina quickly learns that she's walked into something that she isn't going to be getting out of. She's sweet, a little naive, and submissive. But she's trying her hardest in a challenging situation.

Judas is dominant, cunning, and in control. He leads the criminal underworld and is feared by many.

The chemistry between the two is on fire, and the spice was amazing. These two fit really well together, and I really enjoyed their story!
 
I highly recommend!!
 
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Judas & Seraphina
Darkness: 5 out of 5 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Type of book: MF, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Books need to be read in order
Title: Blind Desires- Venomous Desires: Book 1
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: Cliffhanger
 
 
*OTT: Possessive, manipulative, obsessive, dominant, and protective MMC
*Eyes only for her
*Criminal Underworld
*Touch her and die
*Dub-Con
*Coercion
*Forced Proximity
*Billionaire
*No cheating or sharing
 
 
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
 
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
1 review
Read
June 8, 2026
I don't know what to say because I still fill like I'm stuck in that world .The gritty, high-stakes Russian mafia backdrop feels incredibly vivid, wrapped in prose that is poetic, dark, and deeply seductive.

This is a true dark romance. It features intense themes of captivity, extreme power imbalances, psychological manipulation, and violence.

Readers who love the "touch her and die" trope, forced proximity, high-stakes suspense, and complex, morally gray characters. It is a fantastic pick for fans of dark, gritty romance
1 review
Review of advance copy
June 6, 2026
This book is so so good i have never read such unhinged book I couldn’t stop in middle i had to stay overnight i hate judas but by the time triology finishes author promises that we will love him i can’t wait for next book to come and meanwhile i will re read this again
Profile Image for Jessica Falk.
2 reviews
July 13, 2026
DNF

I ended up DNFing this around the halfway point. It started out really strong and had me hooked, but I couldn’t keep reading after the MMC sexually assaults the FMC.

I don’t know if she eventually forgives him or if they end up together, but by that point I had lost all interest in finding out. If that’s the direction the story takes, it feels less like a romance and more like Stockholm syndrome to me.

There were also a significant number of typos and editing errors throughout the book, which made it difficult to stay immersed in the story.
152 reviews6 followers
September 19, 2026
Thanks to Book Sirens for this advanced reader copy, this book well it was suffocating at times, we meet " Our little bird" Seraphina, absolutely love the name, she looks meek small delicate and terrified. The biggest problem is she is just too dam vulnerable for Judas and he loves nothing more than a challenge, he doesn't lose ! Both these characters are polar opposite, Seraphina is very determined to help her family she takes too much on her small shoulders, money worries for such a young girl shouldn't be happening, the girl lives in a permanent state of anxiety which is a theme throughout this book.

The perfect job ad appears and of course Seraphina thinks wow good opportunity and steps in the huge mansion, here comes Judas accept he's blind and he needs help. He isnt what she expected, Muscled, Heavily Tattooed and he fills the room with his huge frame, he's ripped and he gives off a intoxicating mixture of power and control and he doesn’t even have to speak. Already you can sense the danger within him.


Be under no illusion with this book its very spicey and its also very dominating too much so for me , there are heavy trigger warnings, but there's also glimpses of something else in this book and that's character development over time. The strength that Seraphina shows throughout is courageous she's very switched on and determined, but she also knows that life isnt what it use to be.

The cliff hanger infuriated me ! i then requested book 2 be prepared that you need to go to the second book, there was no way i wasnt going to request book too. At times the book is gory, male heavy, heartless, ruthless and just no respect of female boundaries hence the trigger warnings. At times it made me feel sick as its the harshness and the reality of the book. But i kept turning the pages to see where it goes , currently on book 2.
Profile Image for Crystal || BoundInBlush.
74 reviews4 followers
June 21, 2026
Venomous Desires is so dark that you’ll need a torch!

The possessive and unhinged Russian Mobster MMC, appropriately named, Judas (The Predator) is not morally grey - he is pitch black. Our FMC, Seraphina (The Prey) is the innocent, young American caught up as a Pawn in his little game - but is it really just a game to Judas, or does he have other motives?…

There were a few grammatical errors and some sections that repeated themselves. If this was ironed out, the reading experience would have been 5⭐️

Be warned though, this does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you going “what the hell? Where’s the rest?”

(I have received an advance review copy from Book Sirens. I have left this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own)
Profile Image for Melissa Mejia.
598 reviews74 followers
July 10, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. Oh my what did i just read phew 😮‍💨!! This was absolutely on fire!! Please read your triggers!! If you love dark mafia romance you will definitely love this!! Touch her and ☠️ and the spice 🥵🥵!! Absolutely devoured this book and stayed up late to finish!! Loved the chemistry between Seraphina and Judas!! Cant wait to read the next book!!

“Venomous Desires is the gripping first book in the Blind Desires mafia romance series. If you enjoy forced proximity, dangerous billionaire antiheroes, and slow-burn obsession, then you’ll love Luna Sads’ dark, intoxicating tale.

Start reading Venomous Desires and let the danger begin.”
2 reviews
July 9, 2026
Absolutely loved this book! I cannot wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Caitlin Hayward.
47 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2026
Phew I did not think I would like this book this much but I was sucked into this world from the first page! I am ready for book two in the series!
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,062 reviews14 followers
July 11, 2026
Seraphina & Judas

I had to sit with this review for a week before writing because Venomous Desires was dark. Seraphina takes a job taking care of Judas and even though the whole vibe is creepy and mysterious she doesn't really have a choice. She needs the money for her mother. Regardless of what you may think about Judas he is going to protect her throughout this book and the next. I have this feeling.

He may be dark but he might have some reservations about any harm coming to Sera. These two could not be more different and I think that's why they work so well together. The passion between our MCs is unmatched.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
1 review
Currently Reading
June 5, 2026
Such a great book ,,, it just wanna keep you reading
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mayuri.
52 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2026
You will think you have met the most morally grey man of your life until you have met JUDAS 🔥 and as much as Seraphina is terrified of him ? She's drawn towards him too. The power control is unreal. Loved the plot and the spice in the book. Also, the book ends at a cliffhanger which immediately wants me to start the second book ASAP.

This book is dark and may not be not be for everyone, so please have a look at the trigger warnings and proceed.
Profile Image for Denise Rodríguez.
174 reviews
September 4, 2026
ARC Review:

~🇺🇸:English

The story is exciting, intense, and has that kind of tension that makes you keep saying “just one more chapter” because you NEED to know what happens next.

Judas and Seraphina have such a complicated dynamic, filled with danger, tension, obsession, and chemistry. And Judas… this man is absolutely unhinged 😭🫠. He’s possessive, obsessive, ruthless, controlling, and definitely one of those MMCs who will have you questioning your own taste in fictional men 😂.

I really enjoyed the mix of romance, mafia, suspense, and mystery.

Seraphina was also a character I really enjoyed. Despite everything she goes through, she tries to stand her ground and fight for herself, which made her easy to root for.

And that ending I need the next book immediately because there is no way I can just sit here and pretend I’m okay after that cliffhanger.I need much more for them.

If you love dark mafia romance, obsessive and possessive MMCs, forced proximity, intense chemistry, and morally black men who make you question all your life choices… definitely give this one a try.

•Tropes:

• Dark Mafia Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Billionaire MMC
• Blind MMC
• Obsessed & Possessive MMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Secret Identity
• Student/Caregiver
• Slow-Burn Obsession
• Morally Black MMC
• Dual POV
• Russian Mafia
• Dub-Con / Coercion

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

CW: violence, captivity/control, psychological manipulation, power imbalance, coercion/dub-con, and other dark themes.

~🇪🇸:Español:


La historia es emocionante, intensa y tiene ese tipo de tensión que hace que quieras seguir leyendo porque necesitas saber qué va a pasar después.

Judas y Seraphina tienen una dinámica bastante complicada, llena de tensión, peligro y una química que se siente desde el principio. Judas es definitivamente un personaje que te hará cuestionarte muchas cosas 😂🫠. Es oscuro, posesivo, obsesivo y completamente desquiciado, pero justamente eso hace que sea imposible ignorarlo.

Me gustó mucho cómo la historia mezcla romance, mafia, misterio y momentos bastante intensos.

Seraphina también me gustó porque, a pesar de todo lo que tiene que enfrentar, intenta mantenerse firme y luchar por sí misma. Su dinámica con Judas definitivamente es de esas que te hacen pensar: “¿POR QUÉ ME GUSTA ESTO?” 😭

Y ese final… necesito el siguiente libro YA. 😭

Si te gustan los dark romances con mafia, protagonistas moralmente grises/negros, obsesión, forced proximity y un MMC completamente unhinged, definitivamente dale una oportunidad. Eso sí: lean los trigger/content warnings antes de empezar, porque este libro es bastante oscuro.

Tropes 🖤

• Dark Mafia Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Billionaire MMC
• Blind MMC
• Obsessed & Possessive MMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Secret Identity
• Student/Caregiver
• Slow-Burn Obsession
• Morally Black MMC
• Dual POV
• Russian Mafia
• Dub-Con / Coercion

CW: violencia, cautiverio/control, manipulación psicológica, dinámicas de poder, coerción/dub-con y otros temas oscuros. Es un dark romance bastante intenso.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Profile Image for shefali  S.
25 reviews4 followers
August 15, 2026
I went into Venomous Desires thinking I’d enjoy it, but I genuinely did NOT expect to get this fucking obsessed. Luna Sads really knows how to create a story that gets under your skin and refuses to let go.

There was something about the whole atmosphere of this book that had me hooked—the danger, the mystery, the tension, the constant feeling that there was always something more going on beneath the surface. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and somehow ended up completely consumed by Judas and Sera’s world.

then there is Judas Romanovski. Oh, this fucking man. 😭

I don't even know how to explain my feelings about him because I KNOW HE IS A RED FLAG. A gigantic one. 🚩 He is ruthless, possessive, manipulative, terrifying and completely unhinged, and yet somehow I ended up loving every second of his character. I was literally questioning myself while reading because WHY AM I SO OBSESSED WITH THIS MAN?!

The way he is with Sera is what really got me. The fact that he can hurt her himself but absolutely cannot stand anyone else hurting her??? Sir, that logic is fucking insane, but unfortunately I understand the assignment. 😭 The second it comes to someone else touching or hurting his little bird, suddenly the whole fucking world has a problem.

“Little Bird.”
“His woman.”

I'M SORRY??? 😭😭😭

The way he calls Sera Little Bird had me folding every single time, but him referring to her as his woman??? OH GOD. That possessiveness should piss me off, and it DOES, but then I'm sitting there kicking my feet like an idiot.

And Sera? I loved that she wasn't just going to quietly accept Judas and everything he threw at her. She has her fear, her vulnerability, but she still has that fire in her that makes her push back against him. Watching these two constantly challenge each other made their dynamic so damn addictive.

Their entire relationship is such a fucked-up mixture of danger, control, obsession, fear and those tiny moments that make you stop and think, wait… did Judas just show a little softness? And those moments hit HARD because you know exactly how terrifying this man can be.

The mafia setting, forced proximity, predator-and-prey energy, slow-burn obsession and all that tension made this such an addictive read. I loved that there was more happening than just the romance too—the suspense kept me curious, and I was constantly trying to figure out what was actually going on.

And that ENDING??? Absolutely fucking rude.

So yeah, would I recommend Judas as a real-life man? Absolutely fucking not. 🚩🚩🚩

Would I read hundreds more pages about him being an unhinged, possessive menace who calls Sera Little Bird and acts like she belongs to him?

WITHOUT FUCKING HESITATION. 🫠🖤

Judas, you are a red flag and I fucking hate how much I love you.
Profile Image for Becca.
519 reviews91 followers
June 14, 2026
ARC review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Venomous Desires is the kind of mafia romance that wraps itself around your throat and refuses to let go. Packed with tension, obsession, power plays, and emotional vulnerability, this story delivers the perfect balance of darkness and heart.

Seraphina Rosewood is easy to root for. Alone in a foreign country, struggling financially, and carrying the weight of helping her mother, she’s forced into impossible situations just to survive. Her resilience is what makes her so compelling. Even when she’s frightened, she refuses to be completely broken, and that stubborn streak creates incredible chemistry with the man at the center of the storm.

And then there’s Judas Romanovski.

Judas is everything a dark romance hero should be; intimidating, possessive, ruthless, and impossible to ignore. As the blind heir to a powerful mafia empire, he commands every scene he enters. But beneath the control, manipulation, and dangerous reputation is a man haunted by his own demons. Watching those cracks appear in his armor whenever Seraphina is involved adds a surprising emotional depth to the story.

The dynamic between them is electric from the start. What begins as a simple job opportunity quickly spirals into something much more complicated. Every interaction feels loaded with tension as attraction battles distrust, and vulnerability collides with the dangerous realities of Judas’s world.

One of my favorite aspects was how the story balances the darkness with genuine emotional moments. Judas may be terrifying at times, but the glimpses of tenderness he shows Seraphina make the romance feel earned rather than purely driven by obsession. Their relationship is messy, complicated, and often dangerous but that’s exactly what makes it so compelling.

The Moscow setting adds an extra layer of atmosphere, creating a cold, isolated backdrop that perfectly complements the story’s suspenseful tone. Between mafia rivalries, revenge plots, hidden motives, and growing feelings, the stakes remain high throughout.
Profile Image for Darkromancearabia Jin.
619 reviews50 followers
Review of advance copy
June 26, 2026
I have mixed feelings about this one. It was an interesting read, even while I questioned almost every decision the characters made.

Judas is manipulative, possessive, obsessive, ruthless, and completely unapologetic. There is nothing romantic about him, and I definitely did not condone the way he treated Seraphina. If you're looking for a morally grey hero, Judas isn't one. He's exactly what the author promised: diabolically unhinged!!! Morally black, if you ask me.

Seraphina frustrated me quite a bit. She could be incredibly naïve and sometimes made choices that left me shaking my head. Yet, I admired that she never completely lost her spirit. Even when she was terrified, she continued to push back against Judas instead of simply accepting her fate.

The premise wasn't entirely new to me, but the execution kept me invested. Sera came to Russia to provide a better life for her mother and family, and from the moment she arrived, she already felt out of place and her problems started: catching the eye of several dangerous characters, looking for a job where the salary is too good to be true. And Judas used that (even his name is scary). He became the predator, and she became his prey, his little bird.

Their relationship is built on manipulation, fear, control, and an extreme power imbalance rather than trust, with a deeply dark atmosphere and mafia elements. This is a true dark romance, so the content warnings are there for a reason. As for the side characters, they are as shady as they come!! I don’t trust any of them.

The pacing is fairly slow at first before gradually picking up. I also noticed some editing issues and repetition. And yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. This was a good read that left me conflicted in the best and worst ways. I struggled with Judas's actions, rolled my eyes at some of Seraphina's decisions, yet I still couldn't stop reading.

Venomous Desires is certainly worth checking out. Just make sure you know exactly what you're signing up for.
Profile Image for bookishtales.jj.
38 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2026
What in the freaking world of books I have read 💋🫣. It's one of the darkest and most unhinged books I have ever read. I know luna always writes the most black dark romance which will make you forget you are in the real world.

Girlsss... I know he is walking red flag but I am a colour blind. He is one of the most obsessed and unhinged and possessive male leads I have ever read.

He is like a " I am not a hero to protect the world for you but I am a Villain to burn down the world for you" This type of men I need and crave (I know it is not possible 🫠).
This book will be both haunting and romantic. The tension, obsession and the chemistry was like a chef kiss 💋. The characters are flawed , complex and unforgettable.

Now let's talk about Judas Romanovski... This freaking man is ruthless, manipulative and completely unhinged 🤌. He is the kind of man where women will be in a love hate relationship with him..... I know half of the readers will not like him for disrespecting Sera but the way he slowly takes over the affection towards Sera makes it worth it.

And finally My baby Sera (Little Bird) 🫶, I loved her from starting to ending of the book because she is hardworking and the determined women who is proving her worth to the world and I will give a great salute to her 🫡. I loved how she kept a sassy attitude towards Judas in spite of having a little fear towards him...

By the end of the book, I came to the conclusion that the author has me
~ Giggling
~ Blushing like an idiot
~ curling my toes in each scene
~ ofc crying 😭

The mafia settings, forced proximity, tension between the characters had kept me on the hook. Also you will feel like crying, frustrated and also flustered by this book. I can't wait to read their next book... Also I am expecting a Judas redemption (because my Sera deserves it).

If you still ask me Do I love Judas.... My answer will always be a BIG YES 🤭.. I am more intrigued by what will happen in their next book and of course I'll read them..
5 reviews
July 2, 2026
Venomous Desires completely pulled me in from the very beginning. The writing is immersive, the atmosphere is dark and haunting, and every chapter leaves you wanting to know what happens next. It has the perfect balance of mystery, danger, and obsession that makes it impossible to stop reading.

Seraphina instantly won me over. She's kind, hardworking, and relatable, trying to build a better life despite everything she's been through. Watching her navigate an unfamiliar country while carrying so many responsibilities made me root for her from the very first page.

Judas Romanovski is the definition of a dark romance hero. Every scene he appears in is magnetic. His presence is intimidating, mysterious, and impossible to ignore, and the tension surrounding him keeps you on edge. The slow unraveling of his character makes him even more fascinating.

The chemistry between Seraphina and Judas is intense from their first meeting. Every interaction is filled with tension, curiosity, and an underlying danger that keeps the story gripping. Their dynamic feels unique and leaves you wanting more with every chapter.

The world-building is another standout. From the icy streets of Moscow to the eerie mansion and the constant feeling that something bigger is happening behind the scenes, the setting adds so much depth to the story. It creates an atmosphere that's both beautiful and unsettling.

Final Verdict: An addictive dark romance with unforgettable characters, incredible chemistry, and a suspenseful plot that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. If you love morally dark heroes, obsessive romance, and stories full of mystery and tension, this is an absolute must-read. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Ik.rahhhh.
7 reviews
August 19, 2026
followed this book back when it was first published on Wattpad, and I have to say the updated version is far more refined and enjoyable. What stood out to me most is that it breaks away from the usual dark romance formula. The female lead is not portrayed as a naive or confused girl mistaking Stockholm syndrome for love, and the male lead is not written as a typical hopeless romantic ,posssesive either.

Seraphine, in particular, is shown as a strong, determined, and clear-headed character, which makes her very compelling. On the other hand, Judas is written in a way that truly evokes strong dark emotions—you may even find yourself disliking him at times, which adds depth to the story.

Overall, it’s a more mature and well-developed take on the genre that feels refreshing compared to traditional tropes.
followed this book back when it was first published on Wattpad, and I have to say the updated version is far more refined and enjoyable. What stood out to me most is that it breaks away from the usual dark romance formula. The female lead is not portrayed as a naive or confused girl mistaking Stockholm syndrome for love, and the male lead is not written as a typical hopeless romantic ,posssesive either.

Seraphine, in particular, is shown as a strong, determined, and clear-headed character, which makes her very compelling. On the other hand, Judas is written in a way that truly evokes strong dark emotions—you may even find yourself disliking him at times, which adds depth to the story.

Overall, it’s a more mature and well-developed take on the genre that feels refreshing compared to traditional tropes.
Profile Image for Hannah.
89 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2026
This book had more plot holes than Swiss cheese. I acknowledge that I did receive an ARC so there may be some errors but I did not expect to receive a book that read like a first draft. It was incredibly confusing and poorly written to the pint that it became difficult at times to even understand what was happening. For example “grabbing my books, I stuffed them into the bag with unnecessary tantrum”. Many sentences were like this where words were used incorrectly, making it incredibly confusing.

There were major thematic, spelling, wording, and formatting issues. I hope these will be resolved by the publishing date but considering the fact that I received my review copy a few days ago and this book comes out next week. I do not see how in that timeframe. The author could possibly fix all of the issues with this book. There was also an issue that there was not any background on either characters provided. Some small details were given, but never fully explained which made things extremely difficulties with no context for what was happening within the book to understand any of its significance.

The basic idea behind this book is extremely interesting, but I think the execution was abysmal. I believe that if this book went through an actual thorough editing process, perhaps with some beta readers and then an editing company it could be really good, but as is, I would not recommend this book.


Thank you to Luna Sads for providing this book for review consideration via Book Sirens. All opinions are my own.
44 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2026
Venomous Desires is a gripping and unputdownable book which hooks you right from the first page itself and the creative, artistic and simple writing style in which the storytelling has been done lets you feel the chills and shocks as your pore over the pages. The enigma that is Judas Romanovski himself, no matter how much his twisted personality can be, totally makes you wonder what his next action will be and how intense its effects are going to be. Meanwhile, you cannot help but get eager to know Seraphina, who is Judas’s obsession, have to face next in this highly dramatic story.

Every dark aura of Judas has been brought brilliantly alive in the book. His uncanny obsessions, fierce passions and unexpected dangerous games he play every now and then makes him an addictive personality and you can’t simply get over him. Meanwhile you also can’t ignore the help which he did to Seraphina’s family, whom he refer to as Ptichka or little bird, while dominating her world is totally interesting.

Seraphina is also a strong lady and taking every ounce of courage to stand up for herself and escape from the hell of power and control created by Judas over her is admirable. Her love for her family really moves you. Her curiosity and desire to do something good as a student studying on a foreign land resonates so often with us.

Kyle also intrigues as the right hand man of Judas who heeds and do everything the latter asks without question but also mocks him. The secret of Ivan is also interesting as Seraphina who develops a crush over him initially starts fearing him later.
Profile Image for JChv.
163 reviews
July 4, 2026
I mean it’s dark romance but damn, CRAZY READ - remove romanceeee :))) and would consider him morally BLACK NOT GREY … ends in cliffhanger so✌🏻we will see if I have the strength to see how this ends.

🙏🏻📿pray for some redemption arc in the next book but don t think that will be the case :))) crazy mf ☠️

Takeaways😅

1. Still confused by the pretend to be blind act :))) which is how they met cause she was “the caretaker” (not like he needed to prove to anyone he has someone that takes care of him) maybe makes more sense in the following book🤣 whole interaction on this plot was crazy
2. Scholarship to Russia UNI :)) pls
3. She is the FMC that is clumsy and wears ugly sweaters
4. Honestly not sure how it would end cause I think it should end with him in jail and her in therapy from all she experienced and seen but will most likely not
5. He is at least the touch her and die type but she is put in those situations because of him so… yeah, not really a flex also, controlling, mental torture pls.. the trope does nothing if that’s how he treats her🤯
6. As much as she cries and falls… she is focused on getting away and saying no, and talking back 💃 but cursed with the body reacting trope🫨🫪
7. Not really proofread, repeating sentences like crazy

Overall, for me not much romance, more thriller type of read but interesting enough to consider seeing where tf this is going next

🫡
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for OooLaLa Reads.
1,131 reviews66 followers
July 7, 2026
Equal Parts Obsessed, Frustrated, & Hooked

LAWD Geezus Besties... "Venomous Desires" had me on a fawking roller coaster from the very first chapter. I picked it up because I was excited to read about a blind MMC, and Judas definitely wasn't what I expected. The prologue almost gave me a heart attack with the 3rd-person POV, but Chapter 1 switched to dual 1st-person... Whew... and those chapter titles (The Predator and The Prey) were such a fun touch! 🤭

Now let's talk about Judas. This man is ruthless, manipulative, completely unhinged, and honestly had me questioning if redemption is even possible. The way he constantly humiliates Seraphina made my heart ache. I loved her determination at times, but her back & forth between fearless and timid left me conflicted throughout the story. 🤔

The mafia setting, forced proximity, suspense, and constant tension kept me flipping pages. Just know this is the first book in a trilogy, so don't expect answers by the end. Read the TWs because some scenes are incredibly brutal. Despite my frustrations, I'm completely invested and absolutely need Book 2 to see if Judas can somehow redeem himself. #DoubtIt 😏

My Ratings:  ⭐ 4.5/5  ▪︎  🥵 2.5/5

🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Profile Image for SJ.
1,611 reviews24 followers
August 24, 2026
Book 1 of the Blind Desires trilogy

"He was a predator, and I was his prey."

Intense, violent, suspenseful. Had me on the edge of my seat.

I guess unhinged obsessed psychopath is totally my type because Judas is definitely that and so much worse. He is absolutely deranged and a complete morally black monster, but then he's all touch her ☠️ without even blinking.

I went through a whole rollercoaster coaster of emotions because, of course, I wanted to hate Judas, but then he says things like: “Submit to me. Give yourself to me completely, let go of all that pride and resistance, and I will treat you like the goddess you are. I will spend every night worshipping every inch of you, making sure you never know a moment of want again. You’ll be the most cherished thing in my world.”

Serafina is defiant and resilient. I think for the circumstance she was put in, she handled it the best she could.

This book is defeneatly for the extra dark mafia romance lovers out there. The spice is filthy and savage.

They way this book had me hooked from beginning to end, I couldn't get enough. That cliffhanger had me glad I already had the 2nd book lined up ready to read.

Tropes:
Mafia
Billionare
Blind MMC
Obsessed/Possesive MMC
Student/Caregiver FMC
Forbidden
Forced proximity
Dub-con/CNC
Touch her and ☠️
Secret identity
Dual POV

Check TW
12 reviews
July 3, 2026
Ohh my god I was on my knees for judas metaphorically (and quiet literally)

Cause he's not a man

He's THE MAN

And i just couldn't take my eyes off the book even for a second while I was reading the author surely kept me on my toes

But she also got me giggling shying

Blushing and crying at one point

But ohh my little bird or more specifically ptichka

I like how she's portrayed she doesn't have means to fight him but she keeps being sassy with him and he's has his sass too I love sassy men

There were time's when I questioned my sanity for reading this diabolical book

I questioned Judas and I questioned seraphina

But the I ended up questioning the author cause what do you mean YOU wrote this man

Thiss unhinged

Like for real

I mean my brain could never

Nothing absolutely nothing could have prepared me for the judas

No amount of unhinged can even comprehend the judas mentality

But for sure

You'll love it

You'll gobble the book like the good girl

And he'll have you on his mercy till the end

Can't wait for the next part

Waiting patiently

(Not so patiently)

Love loads @lunasads ❤



I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Arc reader
Profile Image for Ariareadzz.
14 reviews
September 5, 2026
📖: VENOMOUS DESIRES by Luna Sads
My ratings:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

Okayyy this book??? I honestly wasn't expecting it to be THIS dark and addictive. I started reading and before I knew it, I was just like okay one more chapter... and then another...and another. I CANT HELP

Judas is...something else. I spent half the book trying to understand this man because you genuinely never know what he's going to do next. He's definitely not someone you can figure out easily, and honestly that made him even more interesting to read about.

Sera on the other hand? I LOVED HER! She has her moments where she's vulnerable, but she isn't just going to sit there and let Judas walk all over her. Their whole dynamic was such a MESS, but the tension between them was sooo good.

I also really enjoyed the suspense and the whole mafia environment. There was always this feeling that something was about to happen and I was constantly waiting for the next tragedy.

And THAT ENDING??
Yeah...I need the next book because I'm definitely not getting over that anytime soon.

Overall, such a dark, messy and addictive read. If you're into dark romance, morally grey characters, strong FMCs and a little bit of "WHAT THE HELL IS HAPPENING" every few chapters, definitely pick this one up.
Profile Image for Tas.
504 reviews10 followers
July 14, 2026
3.5 Judas isn't morally grey—he's morally pitch black. Manipulative, obsessive, possessive, ruthless... a walking nightmare disguised as a man. The author promised a diabolically unhinged antihero, and Judas delivered every terrifying second of it.

Seraphina tested my patience with some of her choices, but I loved that she never let her fire completely die. Even when fear wrapped around her throat, she still fought back against the monster hunting her.

The predator-and-prey dynamic, mafia backdrop, and suffocating atmosphere had me completely hooked. Their relationship is built on control, manipulation, and fear—not romance—making this a true dark romance that absolutely earns every trigger warning.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The pacing starts slow before tightening its grip, and while I noticed some editing hiccups, I still couldn't look away. I hated Judas, questioned Seraphina, distrusted every side character... and devoured every page. That cliffhanger? Absolutely criminal. If you love your romance deliciously dark and psychologically twisted, *Venomous Desires* is ready to sink its fangs into you.
Profile Image for Maya Kamble.
6 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2026
OMG, this book was SO, SO GOOD. 😭🔥
This is probably one of the darkest dark romances I’ve read, and if you love mafia romance, obsessive men, possessiveness, mystery, and a little bit of psycho energy, this book has EVERYTHING.
Sera is a girl from the United States who moves to Russia for her studies. But when money becomes a problem, she starts looking for a part-time job. She eventually comes across an advertisement for a caretaker, and the salary being offered is suspiciously high for such a simple job. But she desperately needs the money, so she takes it.
And then she finds out who she has to take care of…
A blind mafia man.
But is he really blind? 👀
That question alone kept me hooked because there is this constant feeling that something is not quite right about him. He is obsessive, possessive, dangerous, and honestly… a little terrifying. 😭 The mystery surrounding him and his blindness made the whole story even more addictive.
The chemistry, the tension, the darkness, the obsessionTHIS BOOK HAS IT ALL.
If you’re someone who loves a morally grey/psychotic mafia man who becomes completely obsessed with the FMC, you NEED to read this.
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