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Problematic
Olivia Heart works two jobs and wants a quiet life, decent tips, and enough morally questionable men on her Kindle to keep her bad decisions fictional. Then she delivered flowers to Lux Tower and caught the attention of New Abbadon’s most feared demon lord.
Lux Draven has spent his life as the problem. Rich, masked, lethal, and far too amused by his own audacity, Lux rules from the shadows with the help of his world famous assassin. One glance at Olivia wrecks all of it. She’s shy, bookish, painfully sweet, and hiding a filthy little weakness for fictional monsters.
Unfortunately for her, Lux is real.
Now roses appear where they shouldn’t. Customers who disrespect her come back shaking, apologizing, and leaving excellent tips. Olivia has read enough dark romance to know better, but knowing better has never stopped anyone from turning the page.
Olivia believes she’s powerless, but Lux sees right through her. Something rare is awakening inside her, something dangerous enough to make every rival clan in New Abbadon want her. And if his enemies discover what she is before she can learn to control it, they won’t come for his throne. They’ll come for her.
Lux Draven has many problems, but letting anyone take what belongs to him isn’t one of them.
Lux Draven has spent his life as the problem. Rich, masked, lethal, and far too amused by his own audacity, Lux rules from the shadows with the help of his world famous assassin. One glance at Olivia wrecks all of it. She’s shy, bookish, painfully sweet, and hiding a filthy little weakness for fictional monsters.
Unfortunately for her, Lux is real.
Now roses appear where they shouldn’t. Customers who disrespect her come back shaking, apologizing, and leaving excellent tips. Olivia has read enough dark romance to know better, but knowing better has never stopped anyone from turning the page.
Olivia believes she’s powerless, but Lux sees right through her. Something rare is awakening inside her, something dangerous enough to make every rival clan in New Abbadon want her. And if his enemies discover what she is before she can learn to control it, they won’t come for his throne. They’ll come for her.
Lux Draven has many problems, but letting anyone take what belongs to him isn’t one of them.
- GenresDark Romance
468 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am absolutely kicking my feet while reading this addictive nugget when I have errands to run and life to do. I simply cannot put this down even for a minute! The MMC Lux Draven is the absolute leader of New Abaddon and is trying desperately to protect its borders from outside forces. His fictional and feared assassin (and actual persona non grata) is the first face the MFC Olivia “Liv” Heart meets and sees. Unbeknownst to her, the mate bond snaps in place on his side but not on hers. Through his trusted assistant Vale Ryker - (think Iron Man’s Jarvis but in human form) his voice of reason, first general, and right hand/confidant - Lux starts to obsess about knowing everything about Liv including who she associates with, actively stalks and breaks into her place of residence to leave her thoughtful gifts and love notes, and through nefarious means sets up surveillance and protective measures to ensure her safety. He’s the true definition of OTT. This eventually backfires on him in the most epic fashion. Meanwhile, Lux has to adjust his whole entire mind frame, woo Liv, and balance work and “domestic” life. He learns the hard way that trust and honesty is a two-way street. As they try to figure out the what’s and why’s Fate threw at them, New Abaddon is on the verge of the threat of invasion, the discovery of their hidden identities and abilities can literally make or break this new couple. Along the way, we are introduced to an endearing supportive cast of friends and social misfits - Sam and Mandi (Liv’s work wives and close friends) and Kalon (Lux’s main competitor for Liv’s affections). What Lux does to neutralize him as a threat is genius on so many levels. Does Lux and Liv have a chance to test and survive this new mate bond before New Abaddon burns to the ground? Liv may initially come across as common and docile, but she is fierce and headstrong. She is endearing and quirky, but she should never be underestimated and be assumed weak and powerless. I love her growth and transformation. Ariel is a tremendous writer who interjects unusual wit and humor into the most inappropriate situations and at times poor timing especially during life-and-death but rather revealing moments, the action scenes play out like a movie, and the dialogue is honest and at times self-deprecating. I laughed, I threw my Kindle a few times, and I might have shed a tear or two. Overall, I had a great time reading Problematic. Can we get a sequel? Pretty please? Ariel, you asked what my favorite quote was on social media post. I have highlighted a few passages here and there, but I am more interested in the intent and message of the story. If I had to pick one - “Because you put salt in a matcha latte this morning.” Kalon says to Liv. We are all hot messes who may look put together on the outside, but we are really all mad on the inside. It also sums up rather accurately what to expect when diving into this amazing story. At times FUBAR with a happy ending and a heavy sprinkle of spice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Comical, Addictive, Fierce
Olivia Heart, lives a simple life, wanting it to be quiet and low key. Olivia works two jobs at a coffee shop and delivering flowers, enjoying the company of her friends. Olivia has her cozy apartment , enough dark romance books to keep all the bad decisions between the pages of morally fictional men and her favorite cat mug. What more could Olivia want? She's living the best bookish life. Until, Olivia delivered flowers to the Lux Tower, and grabbed the attention of yours truly, the most petrifying demon lord of New Abbadon. Are you willing to go to the dark side?
For Olivia everything is going to change and capsize like a boat in high winds...a little shake up won't hurt. Right? Lux Draven is handsomley sharp, powerfully rich with an enormous empire, obsessively alluring, armed and masked with his famous assassin by his side. It took one glance, now all eyes are on our dearest bookish Olivia, whose a little bashful with a touch of fiest and witty humour. It'll have an extra helping of stalker, unhinged chaos and spice that'll make everything nice!
"Murderous stalkers should not have beta reader energy."
I devoured this book in 24 hours, my eyes and mind were fixated and hungry for more! I found myself laughing throughout the whole story especially with the bookish jokes and the non stop banter between Liv and Lux. Just when you thought it couldn't get funnier, oh it did and delivered! I absolutely love the concept of Liv reading her dark romance book about morally deviously murderous men, becoming attached to the point where she's going through sleep deprivation, while she's being stalked in real life, talk about bookception! Lux feels his red flags are his way of branding , took me out! This book was steamy, intense and mesmerizing and everything you'd want in a dark Romance book and more! I can't wait to see how the story continues to unfold in the world of New Abbadon!
"Every bookish girl fantasy I had ever mocked sat ten feet away, gleaming under the warm light."
Olivia Heart, lives a simple life, wanting it to be quiet and low key. Olivia works two jobs at a coffee shop and delivering flowers, enjoying the company of her friends. Olivia has her cozy apartment , enough dark romance books to keep all the bad decisions between the pages of morally fictional men and her favorite cat mug. What more could Olivia want? She's living the best bookish life. Until, Olivia delivered flowers to the Lux Tower, and grabbed the attention of yours truly, the most petrifying demon lord of New Abbadon. Are you willing to go to the dark side?
For Olivia everything is going to change and capsize like a boat in high winds...a little shake up won't hurt. Right? Lux Draven is handsomley sharp, powerfully rich with an enormous empire, obsessively alluring, armed and masked with his famous assassin by his side. It took one glance, now all eyes are on our dearest bookish Olivia, whose a little bashful with a touch of fiest and witty humour. It'll have an extra helping of stalker, unhinged chaos and spice that'll make everything nice!
"Murderous stalkers should not have beta reader energy."
I devoured this book in 24 hours, my eyes and mind were fixated and hungry for more! I found myself laughing throughout the whole story especially with the bookish jokes and the non stop banter between Liv and Lux. Just when you thought it couldn't get funnier, oh it did and delivered! I absolutely love the concept of Liv reading her dark romance book about morally deviously murderous men, becoming attached to the point where she's going through sleep deprivation, while she's being stalked in real life, talk about bookception! Lux feels his red flags are his way of branding , took me out! This book was steamy, intense and mesmerizing and everything you'd want in a dark Romance book and more! I can't wait to see how the story continues to unfold in the world of New Abbadon!
"Every bookish girl fantasy I had ever mocked sat ten feet away, gleaming under the warm light."
Review of advance copy received from Author
The writing pulled me in almost immediately, and the pacing made this incredibly difficult to put down. The world felt vivid without becoming overwhelming, and I especially loved the magic system and the way it was woven naturally into the story. There’s darkness here, but there’s also enough humor and personality to keep the book from ever feeling too heavy.
Olivia was wonderfully relatable, particularly as a bookish heroine who knows perfectly well what a red flag looks like in fiction…and apparently still has questions when one appears in real life. And Lux? An entire collection of red flags wrapped in charm, danger, and questionable decision making. Somehow, it works. Their dynamic was easily one of my favorite parts of the story, the chemistry, the tension, and the way their relationship develops made them ridiculously entertaining to follow.
I also really enjoyed the friendships and the larger cast surrounding them. They gave the story warmth and personality beyond the romance, while the spice fit naturally into Olivia and Lux’s connection rather than overpowering everything else.
What surprised me most was how easily Problematic balanced all of its pieces. It has the danger, morally questionable behavior, supernatural intrigue, and heat you expect from a dark romance, yet it’s also genuinely funny, adventurous, and oddly charming. At times, I almost forgot I was reading something dark at all.
Immersive, addictive, and just the right amount of unhinged, this was such a fun read. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in New Abbadon and would absolutely recommend it to readers who like their fictional men powerful, dangerous, and composed almost entirely of warning signs.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Olivia was wonderfully relatable, particularly as a bookish heroine who knows perfectly well what a red flag looks like in fiction…and apparently still has questions when one appears in real life. And Lux? An entire collection of red flags wrapped in charm, danger, and questionable decision making. Somehow, it works. Their dynamic was easily one of my favorite parts of the story, the chemistry, the tension, and the way their relationship develops made them ridiculously entertaining to follow.
I also really enjoyed the friendships and the larger cast surrounding them. They gave the story warmth and personality beyond the romance, while the spice fit naturally into Olivia and Lux’s connection rather than overpowering everything else.
What surprised me most was how easily Problematic balanced all of its pieces. It has the danger, morally questionable behavior, supernatural intrigue, and heat you expect from a dark romance, yet it’s also genuinely funny, adventurous, and oddly charming. At times, I almost forgot I was reading something dark at all.
Immersive, addictive, and just the right amount of unhinged, this was such a fun read. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in New Abbadon and would absolutely recommend it to readers who like their fictional men powerful, dangerous, and composed almost entirely of warning signs.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced reader's copy from the author prior to the publication of this book.
I consumed this story within a matter of days. I personally related to Liv on so many levels that I felt like the author had copied and pasted components of my own interests and personality traits into the main character herself. All of my favorite parts of a dark romance were woven into this book - unhinged, over the top, obsessive male lead, morally grey masked stalker, will burn the world down for her, a monster to everyone else but a complete teddy bear for his love.
The chemistry between our two leads - Liv and Lux - practically leapt off the pages between their witty banter and their internal monologues through the dual pov alternating chapters. The development of their relationship unraveled beautifully and never felt rushed or forced. Their growth as individual characters as they fell deeper for one another was different than most dark romance books. Whereas many male leads change only for their woman, Lux matured and tried to alter his personality beyond just how he dealt with Liv. Instead of brushing her aside and taking away her choices like the traditional morally grey ott male does, he actively listened to her and took what she said and felt into consideration. It was a nice change of pace whereas typically with this trope, the female lead is seen as weak and just kind of goes along with what the strong, male lead wants/order her to do.
Lux and Liv become equals throughout the book with a mutual earned respect and love for one another that goes beyond their mate marks. I truly enjoyed this book and will be reading more by this author! I'm hoping we get some insight into Vale who I loved as a minor character and would love to see his own story.
I consumed this story within a matter of days. I personally related to Liv on so many levels that I felt like the author had copied and pasted components of my own interests and personality traits into the main character herself. All of my favorite parts of a dark romance were woven into this book - unhinged, over the top, obsessive male lead, morally grey masked stalker, will burn the world down for her, a monster to everyone else but a complete teddy bear for his love.
The chemistry between our two leads - Liv and Lux - practically leapt off the pages between their witty banter and their internal monologues through the dual pov alternating chapters. The development of their relationship unraveled beautifully and never felt rushed or forced. Their growth as individual characters as they fell deeper for one another was different than most dark romance books. Whereas many male leads change only for their woman, Lux matured and tried to alter his personality beyond just how he dealt with Liv. Instead of brushing her aside and taking away her choices like the traditional morally grey ott male does, he actively listened to her and took what she said and felt into consideration. It was a nice change of pace whereas typically with this trope, the female lead is seen as weak and just kind of goes along with what the strong, male lead wants/order her to do.
Lux and Liv become equals throughout the book with a mutual earned respect and love for one another that goes beyond their mate marks. I truly enjoyed this book and will be reading more by this author! I'm hoping we get some insight into Vale who I loved as a minor character and would love to see his own story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"The decent response would have been appreciation. I managed silence. I deserved an award."~Lux
Liv and Lux are hilarious and I absolutely love them. I love everything about this book from the characters to the plot, from the dialog to the world building, just everything about it. Absolutely loved Mandi, Kolan and Sam and how they were there for Liv throughout the whole book. Absolutely love when besties are actually besties. And Vale...absolutely love Vale and his grumpiness with Lux about everything he does. 🤭🤭 I really hope we get a book for him because he definitely deserves it for putting up with Lux and all his crazy ideas.
I really loved the plot of this book, it was unique and I loved how I was able to follow along and not get lost. Love how Liv was reading about a stalker while being stalked 🤭🤭. And I love how Lux wrote in her book,(which is a big no no normally...but in this case 🤭🤭) he knew what he was doing. And I love how he tried to justify everything he did (not only to Liv and Vale but also to himself) and in the end realize he was wrong and he apologized. I absolutely loved both Liv and Lux's thoughts throughout the whole book, absolutely hilarious 😂.
I absolutely LOVED the ending 🤭🤭, Poor Lux is definitely out of his depth and yay Liv for putting him there. I swooned so hard when he gave her the company with the partnership with her flower job and then with retail space for books!! He gave her everything she could want in a job with that. Coffee, books, and flowers as she said it!! Ugh I want me a Lux 😍
Overall this has been such an amazing read and is now one of my top five favorite books I've had the pleasure of reading!! 100/10!!
Liv and Lux are hilarious and I absolutely love them. I love everything about this book from the characters to the plot, from the dialog to the world building, just everything about it. Absolutely loved Mandi, Kolan and Sam and how they were there for Liv throughout the whole book. Absolutely love when besties are actually besties. And Vale...absolutely love Vale and his grumpiness with Lux about everything he does. 🤭🤭 I really hope we get a book for him because he definitely deserves it for putting up with Lux and all his crazy ideas.
I really loved the plot of this book, it was unique and I loved how I was able to follow along and not get lost. Love how Liv was reading about a stalker while being stalked 🤭🤭. And I love how Lux wrote in her book,(which is a big no no normally...but in this case 🤭🤭) he knew what he was doing. And I love how he tried to justify everything he did (not only to Liv and Vale but also to himself) and in the end realize he was wrong and he apologized. I absolutely loved both Liv and Lux's thoughts throughout the whole book, absolutely hilarious 😂.
I absolutely LOVED the ending 🤭🤭, Poor Lux is definitely out of his depth and yay Liv for putting him there. I swooned so hard when he gave her the company with the partnership with her flower job and then with retail space for books!! He gave her everything she could want in a job with that. Coffee, books, and flowers as she said it!! Ugh I want me a Lux 😍
Overall this has been such an amazing read and is now one of my top five favorite books I've had the pleasure of reading!! 100/10!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This might be one of my favorite reads of the summer. I received an arc from the author and devoured it within 24 hours. Reading a physical copy is almost unheard of as of late since I am actively renovating and opening my bookstore. I have been strictly an audio girl as time is a luxury these days, so to have finished a book of over 400 pages in under 24 hours tells you something!
I am not a spoiler girlie, so there will be none here.
Ariel’s characters are absolutely lovable, memorable, and relatable. I immediately connected with the FMC, Liv. Liv is an average and powerless girl (demon) living in a world dominated by magically potent and pretentious demons. Unseen, she serves them coffee and delivers their flowers. She simply exists, finding comfort in her friends at the coffee shop, her mundane routine, and within the pages of her spicy books.
Then there is our MMC, Lux. Lux Draven. Lord Draven to be exact. Ruler of the North, arrogant, gorgeous, brilliant, and a total psycho (but in the best way).
The banter is superb. The spice is potent. All in all, the story and chemistry between bet the MMC/FMC (and the supporting characters!) kept me invested, laughing, and really wishing I was a barista with a fated mate.
I want more!
I loved the slight nods to pop culture (I see you Star Wars).
And! Cannot express how big a fan of Vale and Mandi I am! You’ll see!
I will be recommending (and gifting) this book to all of my friends when they need a light, fun, and sexy as hell (or New Abbadon?) read.
I am not a spoiler girlie, so there will be none here.
Ariel’s characters are absolutely lovable, memorable, and relatable. I immediately connected with the FMC, Liv. Liv is an average and powerless girl (demon) living in a world dominated by magically potent and pretentious demons. Unseen, she serves them coffee and delivers their flowers. She simply exists, finding comfort in her friends at the coffee shop, her mundane routine, and within the pages of her spicy books.
Then there is our MMC, Lux. Lux Draven. Lord Draven to be exact. Ruler of the North, arrogant, gorgeous, brilliant, and a total psycho (but in the best way).
The banter is superb. The spice is potent. All in all, the story and chemistry between bet the MMC/FMC (and the supporting characters!) kept me invested, laughing, and really wishing I was a barista with a fated mate.
I want more!
I loved the slight nods to pop culture (I see you Star Wars).
And! Cannot express how big a fan of Vale and Mandi I am! You’ll see!
I will be recommending (and gifting) this book to all of my friends when they need a light, fun, and sexy as hell (or New Abbadon?) read.
September 1, 2026
Problematic came up on my IG page as a recommended book based on my other reads and authors I follow and for once, I am absolutely thrilled I followed through on this one and was granted an early copy.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. The characters, the writing, the dialogue, the entire plot and the humor that was added at the right times was perfection.
I really enjoyed how Ariel told this story. It is a dark-ish paranormal romance with some humor dabbled in at the right times. Usually with paranormal or fantasy stories, we are riddled with the world building and character introductions. But with this book, Ariel's writing still allows that world creation and vision without feeling overwhelmed and taking away from the actual story being told. It blended with the storytelling and I could still picture it all.
Liv and Lux - oh these two had me howling and loving them all the same time. I loved their attraction to one another and yet found their inner musings very hilarious. And that humor tumbled into their interactions at times, which just made their connection so much stronger (even as bonded mates).
The storyline for Problematic flows perfectly and I love how everything just blends so well. The darkness that surrounds Lux and who he is; the spice and attraction between Liv and Lux; Liv's life and how she evolves into her true self - I loved it all.
This book kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The story flowed perfectly and the characters were absolutely entertaining. Definitely a recommended read for anyone.
I absolutely loved this story for so many reasons. The characters, the writing, the dialogue, the entire plot and the humor that was added at the right times was perfection.
I really enjoyed how Ariel told this story. It is a dark-ish paranormal romance with some humor dabbled in at the right times. Usually with paranormal or fantasy stories, we are riddled with the world building and character introductions. But with this book, Ariel's writing still allows that world creation and vision without feeling overwhelmed and taking away from the actual story being told. It blended with the storytelling and I could still picture it all.
Liv and Lux - oh these two had me howling and loving them all the same time. I loved their attraction to one another and yet found their inner musings very hilarious. And that humor tumbled into their interactions at times, which just made their connection so much stronger (even as bonded mates).
The storyline for Problematic flows perfectly and I love how everything just blends so well. The darkness that surrounds Lux and who he is; the spice and attraction between Liv and Lux; Liv's life and how she evolves into her true self - I loved it all.
This book kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The story flowed perfectly and the characters were absolutely entertaining. Definitely a recommended read for anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🔥ARC review🔥
Reading a dark romcom was not on my bingo card this year. I didn’t even know that was possible! Saying I absolutely LOVE this book is an understatement! Lux had me in the tightest chokehold that I did not want to be saved from! He is the most dangerous, HOTTEST, funniest red flag that you WANT as your stalker! Sure he did some questionable things but he also did what he thought was best for Liv and her safety. Kind of hard to stay mad at a tall, buff, red eyed and white haired demon lord, am I right? Plus he’s a total cinnamon role just for her which makes him the total package. I can’t be the only one who relates to Liv who reads smutty dark romance and wishes to live her own in real life! She was also a strong girl who didn’t give up and held her own. The chemistry she had with Lux was incredible and the spicy scenes were flawless! I lived for the conversations between these two, their witty comebacks had me laughing so hard that I would have people asking me if I was okay. In comes daddy Vale, Lux’s right hand man. Their interactions were hilarious as well and I feel like Vale needs his own book now too! If you’re looking for a dark romance with great humor, spice, loveable MCs, world building and awesome side characters then run to preorder this masterpiece and make Lux or Vale your next book boyfriend! Thank you Ariel for the opportunity to read this amazing ARC!
Reading a dark romcom was not on my bingo card this year. I didn’t even know that was possible! Saying I absolutely LOVE this book is an understatement! Lux had me in the tightest chokehold that I did not want to be saved from! He is the most dangerous, HOTTEST, funniest red flag that you WANT as your stalker! Sure he did some questionable things but he also did what he thought was best for Liv and her safety. Kind of hard to stay mad at a tall, buff, red eyed and white haired demon lord, am I right? Plus he’s a total cinnamon role just for her which makes him the total package. I can’t be the only one who relates to Liv who reads smutty dark romance and wishes to live her own in real life! She was also a strong girl who didn’t give up and held her own. The chemistry she had with Lux was incredible and the spicy scenes were flawless! I lived for the conversations between these two, their witty comebacks had me laughing so hard that I would have people asking me if I was okay. In comes daddy Vale, Lux’s right hand man. Their interactions were hilarious as well and I feel like Vale needs his own book now too! If you’re looking for a dark romance with great humor, spice, loveable MCs, world building and awesome side characters then run to preorder this masterpiece and make Lux or Vale your next book boyfriend! Thank you Ariel for the opportunity to read this amazing ARC!
August 31, 2026
Shadow daddy!
Fated mates, shadow magic and masked men rom-com style? Heck yes! Grab Problematic to find out more.
Olivia is ordinary. Unlike others living in New Abaddon, she has no demonic powers. She has two jobs, a questionable Kindle history, and no mate bond. Until she makes a delivery to Lux Towers and catches the eye of of the most powerful demon in the city, that is.
Lux has a dilemma. His mate mark activates when he sees Liv, but because his face is masked, hers doesn’t. Now he must choose - reveal himself and let the bond form, or keep his face hidden and let her choose. But the draw of the bond means Lux can’t keep away…and as things heat up, Liv discovers a side of herself she never knew existed.
I loved this story. It’s shadow daddy, it’s masked man, it’s fated mates…it is absolutely one of those books where you just suspend reality and enjoy. The banter is top notch and all the characters are so funny. Liv is a reader herself, and some of my favourite bits were when she relates her situation to the stories she reads. Lux is very much a Batman-esque character - the billionaire who wears a mask to do what his alter ego can’t.
The romance itself is slow burn, but the spice heats up a little sooner. It is extremely open door. The story deals with classism, stalking, exploration of toys, and imprisonment.
I highly recommend this to any fans of PNR who like a masked man every now and then.
Fated mates, shadow magic and masked men rom-com style? Heck yes! Grab Problematic to find out more.
Olivia is ordinary. Unlike others living in New Abaddon, she has no demonic powers. She has two jobs, a questionable Kindle history, and no mate bond. Until she makes a delivery to Lux Towers and catches the eye of of the most powerful demon in the city, that is.
Lux has a dilemma. His mate mark activates when he sees Liv, but because his face is masked, hers doesn’t. Now he must choose - reveal himself and let the bond form, or keep his face hidden and let her choose. But the draw of the bond means Lux can’t keep away…and as things heat up, Liv discovers a side of herself she never knew existed.
I loved this story. It’s shadow daddy, it’s masked man, it’s fated mates…it is absolutely one of those books where you just suspend reality and enjoy. The banter is top notch and all the characters are so funny. Liv is a reader herself, and some of my favourite bits were when she relates her situation to the stories she reads. Lux is very much a Batman-esque character - the billionaire who wears a mask to do what his alter ego can’t.
The romance itself is slow burn, but the spice heats up a little sooner. It is extremely open door. The story deals with classism, stalking, exploration of toys, and imprisonment.
I highly recommend this to any fans of PNR who like a masked man every now and then.
Review of advance copy received from Author
eARC received by Author
Problematic is a standalone dark fantasy romance following Olivia (Liv) and Lux. Liv is a powerless demon working two jobs, a barista at a coffee shop and flower delivery, just to make ends meet. Lux is the leader of the area and as powerful and rich as they come. After a chance encounter, lines blur and Liv finds her darkest fantasies coming alive.
When I first started this book, I wasn't sure if I would like it. The setting was like the world we know, but with demons and humans mixed together and being part of the lower class. After a few chapters, I started to get into it and I liked the demonic parts of the story. It gave the romance a little something more than what you normally get out of dark romances. The characters were lovable, even when they made questionable decisions. There was also alot of humor, which had me laughing through even the serious parts of the story. The main characters go through a great deal and their development through the book really progressed well. I loved the friendships that Liv had as well. I really enjoyed this book.
Thank you to Ariel Brouillette for allowing me the chance to read this early!
Problematic is a standalone dark fantasy romance following Olivia (Liv) and Lux. Liv is a powerless demon working two jobs, a barista at a coffee shop and flower delivery, just to make ends meet. Lux is the leader of the area and as powerful and rich as they come. After a chance encounter, lines blur and Liv finds her darkest fantasies coming alive.
When I first started this book, I wasn't sure if I would like it. The setting was like the world we know, but with demons and humans mixed together and being part of the lower class. After a few chapters, I started to get into it and I liked the demonic parts of the story. It gave the romance a little something more than what you normally get out of dark romances. The characters were lovable, even when they made questionable decisions. There was also alot of humor, which had me laughing through even the serious parts of the story. The main characters go through a great deal and their development through the book really progressed well. I loved the friendships that Liv had as well. I really enjoyed this book.
Thank you to Ariel Brouillette for allowing me the chance to read this early!
August 30, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Firstly thank you Ariel for letting me ARC read your book!
When I tell yall this book was 🥵🔥 I’m not kidding! I have been in a genre slump and this one popped up as next. I was skeptical bc I’m normally a romantacy girly.. but holy crap this book was 10/10!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
I was hooked by chapter 2! When I tell you the banter in this is freaking amazing.. I’m not even kidding! I don’t think I’ve highlights so much in a book 🤭🤭 I loved the plot. The characters are so great! The FMCs friends remind me of my friends! The book was a solid 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ outta 4. But beautifully done! It was spicy and intimate and feral.
From the masked stalker, to the violence, to the relatability of the characters and their jobs! A barista as your main FMC but her friends are a riot! The villain, the masked stalker. And the billionaire overprotective MMC. Who is totally morally grey I would dare say nearly morally black 🤣
If you like spicy. Banter. Character building. Great writing style, this book is for you. Go get it asap!! I do not regret genre jumping and can’t wait to read more!
Firstly thank you Ariel for letting me ARC read your book!
When I tell yall this book was 🥵🔥 I’m not kidding! I have been in a genre slump and this one popped up as next. I was skeptical bc I’m normally a romantacy girly.. but holy crap this book was 10/10!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
I was hooked by chapter 2! When I tell you the banter in this is freaking amazing.. I’m not even kidding! I don’t think I’ve highlights so much in a book 🤭🤭 I loved the plot. The characters are so great! The FMCs friends remind me of my friends! The book was a solid 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ outta 4. But beautifully done! It was spicy and intimate and feral.
From the masked stalker, to the violence, to the relatability of the characters and their jobs! A barista as your main FMC but her friends are a riot! The villain, the masked stalker. And the billionaire overprotective MMC. Who is totally morally grey I would dare say nearly morally black 🤣
If you like spicy. Banter. Character building. Great writing style, this book is for you. Go get it asap!! I do not regret genre jumping and can’t wait to read more!
August 29, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive this ARC from the author, and oh my god is lucky an understatement! I absolutely ATE this book up. This was my first stalker romance, and it far exceeded my expectations! The story roped me in right from the first page. It gave me Crescent City vibes because of the urban setting with magical elements while still being modern. I am beyond in love with the characters in this book. Not only were the MMC and FMC (Lux and Liv) memorable and hilarious together, but also the secondary characters (yes I mean Vale and Sam) had me so invested. The banter in this book is so on point, and I just had such a great time reading it. I loved all the bookish references and saw so much of myself in Liv. I think any book girlie would. And Lux … I could make a collage of all his red flags, but I would proudly display it on my wall like its the Mona Lisa. This is the epitome of a “just one more chapter” read, you won’t be able to put it down!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars
World-building: creative • Intimate scenes: steamy • Banter: top-notch
I absolutely enjoy this author’s stories. In this one we get a great cast of side characters that help Liv and Lux shine. The third act especially had me cheering for the whole gang.
Liv is a fun FMC with very good taste in books, the skills to fix finicky coffee machines, and deliver flowers all across town. Lux is a demon lord in charge of the northern territory by day, and by night he is the masked assassin that enforces Lux’s edicts.
When the masked assassin sees Liv during a delivery, he realizes she’s his mate. Cue the red‑flag behavior and sexy antics we’re all here for.
So why 3.5 stars?
I loved the creativity and the characters, but a few continuity and timeline slips pulled me out of the story at times. The heart of the book is wonderful — I just wished for a slightly smoother reading experience.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for this eARC.
World-building: creative • Intimate scenes: steamy • Banter: top-notch
I absolutely enjoy this author’s stories. In this one we get a great cast of side characters that help Liv and Lux shine. The third act especially had me cheering for the whole gang.
Liv is a fun FMC with very good taste in books, the skills to fix finicky coffee machines, and deliver flowers all across town. Lux is a demon lord in charge of the northern territory by day, and by night he is the masked assassin that enforces Lux’s edicts.
When the masked assassin sees Liv during a delivery, he realizes she’s his mate. Cue the red‑flag behavior and sexy antics we’re all here for.
So why 3.5 stars?
I loved the creativity and the characters, but a few continuity and timeline slips pulled me out of the story at times. The heart of the book is wonderful — I just wished for a slightly smoother reading experience.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for this eARC.
August 26, 2026
Thank you to the author for the advance readers copy
I really enjoyed reading about Liv and Lux. I thought this story would be serious, but it had me laughing and I loved it. I really enjoyed the magic system that the author created. The FMC, Liv, is someone that I feel many can relate to feeling like she doesn’t belong, working 2 jobs, and a spunk of feistiness. Meanwhile Lux is the strong, dangerous, funny, and a bit obsessed MMC.
The story was well written and I had a hard time putting it down. There was drama, there was love, there were fights, but most importantly both Liv and Lux grew not just as individual people, but as mates
I really enjoyed reading about Liv and Lux. I thought this story would be serious, but it had me laughing and I loved it. I really enjoyed the magic system that the author created. The FMC, Liv, is someone that I feel many can relate to feeling like she doesn’t belong, working 2 jobs, and a spunk of feistiness. Meanwhile Lux is the strong, dangerous, funny, and a bit obsessed MMC.
The story was well written and I had a hard time putting it down. There was drama, there was love, there were fights, but most importantly both Liv and Lux grew not just as individual people, but as mates
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book: Problematic
Author: Ariel Brouillette
Series: Standalone
Pages: 496
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5
[16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 32]
🖤 Masked Man
🖤 Book Loving heroine
🖤 Shadow Demon Lord X Barista
🖤 Stalking
🖤 Calla her ‘Little Flower’
🖤 Unhinged for her
The banter in this book is absolutely hilarious 😂
Liv is working 2 jobs and enjoys reading her dark romance books. She believes that she is powerless and plain but Lux knows differently.
Lux, a handsome demon lord with a pet assassin sees her delivering flowers to his tower and becomes completely unhinged for her. Literally, the man is a walking red flag.
Author: Ariel Brouillette
Series: Standalone
Pages: 496
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5
[16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 32]
🖤 Masked Man
🖤 Book Loving heroine
🖤 Shadow Demon Lord X Barista
🖤 Stalking
🖤 Calla her ‘Little Flower’
🖤 Unhinged for her
The banter in this book is absolutely hilarious 😂
Liv is working 2 jobs and enjoys reading her dark romance books. She believes that she is powerless and plain but Lux knows differently.
Lux, a handsome demon lord with a pet assassin sees her delivering flowers to his tower and becomes completely unhinged for her. Literally, the man is a walking red flag.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, comedic stalker romance? Why, yes please. Honestly, I enjoyed this a hell of a lot more than Lights Out, and I genuinely enjoyed that one too. Liv and Lux just have so much banter and chemistry. On top of it, Lux does ALL of the desired book boyfriend things. Sign me up. I’ll take one too please!
Liv has the best friends too. I love that our FMC isn’t just navigating This drama on her own. Hell no, her friends are all in.
I was telling my book besties 30% of the way in they needed to mark their calendars for release day. This was going to be one they didn’t want to miss!!
Liv has the best friends too. I love that our FMC isn’t just navigating This drama on her own. Hell no, her friends are all in.
I was telling my book besties 30% of the way in they needed to mark their calendars for release day. This was going to be one they didn’t want to miss!!
September 2, 2026
Okay, so this was definitely different from what I normally read. Humans, demons, war, fated mates. There is a lot going on, but I actually really enjoyed it.
I loved Liv and Lux together. Even before Liv knew who he really was, she still felt that pull and connection to him. And Lux might act all tough, but when it comes to Liv, he just melts, and I loved it.
There were so many cute moments between them that had me blushing. Add in the demons, danger, power, and everything else that’s going on. Definitely something different for me, but I’m glad I gave it a chance.
I loved Liv and Lux together. Even before Liv knew who he really was, she still felt that pull and connection to him. And Lux might act all tough, but when it comes to Liv, he just melts, and I loved it.
There were so many cute moments between them that had me blushing. Add in the demons, danger, power, and everything else that’s going on. Definitely something different for me, but I’m glad I gave it a chance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book. A masked man but he is a demon… Yes please!
Questionable behavior and decisions were made but what dark romance reader would ask for anything else?
Read it ! Buy it ! You’ll love it!
5/5 stars for the read but also for the spice.
Definitely adding to my collection of favorite books!
Questionable behavior and decisions were made but what dark romance reader would ask for anything else?
Read it ! Buy it ! You’ll love it!
5/5 stars for the read but also for the spice.
Definitely adding to my collection of favorite books!
September 2, 2026
Ariel Brouillette did such a great job balancing spice and humor while creating characters that are genuinely fun to spend time with. This was the kind of book where I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and then somehow I was still reading.
Give me a heroine who loves her smutty books, a character who is ready to roast her reading choices, ridiculous chemistry, and paranormal chaos—and I’m happy.
Problematic was exactly the kind of fun, spicy, entertaining read I needed!
Give me a heroine who loves her smutty books, a character who is ready to roast her reading choices, ridiculous chemistry, and paranormal chaos—and I’m happy.
Problematic was exactly the kind of fun, spicy, entertaining read I needed!
September 3, 2026
This was my first book by Ariel and it definitely will not be my last, after this I have added all of her books to my TBR! This had me hooked from the beginning, Liv and Lux were everything I could have wanted and so much more! If you want a book that will make you laugh, love, has some darkness, fantasy and spice you wont want to miss this one!!
The ending was an absolute chefs kiss!!!!!!
The ending was an absolute chefs kiss!!!!!!
September 3, 2026
Problematic is 1st book I have read by Ariel Brouillette. I read in one day and enjoyed the ride, I could not put it down. I loved both MC's. I found my self giggling throughout the book at different characters. This is definitely what I was looking for in a stalker romance. I will be reading more by this author.
August 31, 2026
Ohhhh this was so fun. The ultimate palette cleanser after so much dark, which is funny because this is dark too. But it’s a hilarious ride the whole time. The banter between her best friends and her had me cackling every other page. Their opinions on her decision making made me feel like I was reading my own group chat 😂 and then her conversations with the MMC?! Delicious 🤤 omg I was clutching my kindle and begging for more the whole time. The spice was panty melting but authentic to the plot and the progression was so natural to the storyline. This is for the ones who love dark themes, hilarious convos, sarcastic besties, found family, stalker tendencies and pure obsession. Plus a decent mix of bad life decisions 😂
September 1, 2026
This book was sooo good! I couldn’t put it down. The characters were awesome and the banter made me laughed out loud several times. The main characters were perfect together. I am so excited for the next book!
September 1, 2026
I was giggling the whole way through this book. It was funny, steamy and extremely entertaining. Lux is Vale’s problem child and I just wish I had bonus chapters of him having to put up with Lux AND Olivia now.
Urban supernatural fantasy meets dark (stalker) romance
Urban supernatural fantasy meets dark (stalker) romance
September 3, 2026
cozy vibes with a little demon stalker
Such a fun book! Definitely a vibe read. I hope you read it too! It was a stalker romance but not as intense as other dark romances. It’s okay if the stalker’s a demon. lol It was a cozy read. Short and sweet and only one book!
Such a fun book! Definitely a vibe read. I hope you read it too! It was a stalker romance but not as intense as other dark romances. It’s okay if the stalker’s a demon. lol It was a cozy read. Short and sweet and only one book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely ATE THIS UP. Liv is a shy barista who loves reading dark romance, so naturally the universe said, “You know what you need? A demon lord stalker.” Enter Lux: sexy, obsessive, completely unhinged, and sporting red flags that have their own red flags 🚩🚩🚩
After a random run-in with Lux’s mysterious assassin, Liv’s life basically turns into the dark stalker romance novel she never expected to be living. And just when the sparks start flying, an ancient power decides to wake up and make everything even more chaotic.
This story had me laughing out loud, questioning everyone’s sanity, and loving every single second of it. Lux is the kind of walking red flag you absolutely should run from, and yet somehow you’re sprinting directly toward him. I devoured this book and had the BEST time doing it 🖤🔥
Thank you to the author for the ARC ❤️
After a random run-in with Lux’s mysterious assassin, Liv’s life basically turns into the dark stalker romance novel she never expected to be living. And just when the sparks start flying, an ancient power decides to wake up and make everything even more chaotic.
This story had me laughing out loud, questioning everyone’s sanity, and loving every single second of it. Lux is the kind of walking red flag you absolutely should run from, and yet somehow you’re sprinting directly toward him. I devoured this book and had the BEST time doing it 🖤🔥
Thank you to the author for the ARC ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this advanced reader copy.
I was not sure what I was getting into when I signed up for this, but man what a pleasant surprise it was. The mmc had me laughing hysterically throughout this book. Just full on big belly laughs. He is the perfect mixture of Zade Meadows (Cat&Mouse duet) and Josh Hammond (Lights Out). As far as the fmc goes, I saw so much of myself in her. I truly related with her so much. They were just perfect for each other. Please add this to your tbr. Also guys this is a standalone and I ate it up.
I was not sure what I was getting into when I signed up for this, but man what a pleasant surprise it was. The mmc had me laughing hysterically throughout this book. Just full on big belly laughs. He is the perfect mixture of Zade Meadows (Cat&Mouse duet) and Josh Hammond (Lights Out). As far as the fmc goes, I saw so much of myself in her. I truly related with her so much. They were just perfect for each other. Please add this to your tbr. Also guys this is a standalone and I ate it up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
And just like that I've found a new author to add to my list of favorites. I might've finished it in a day if life hadn't got in the way. I like how Lux and Liv are good characters on their own. Their personalities really shine when their respective friends are around. Vale isn't paid enough.
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