What do you think?
Rate this book
Shattered Masks: Marking Lila
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 12, 2026
ARC REVIEW
“My name sounded like a benediction in his voice, hypnotic. When he kissed me again, slow and thor-ough, I dissolved. And before my brain could stage a proper interven-tion, I stomped it down.”
This was intense!
Let’s talk about the characters. Malrek AKA Lucas AKA Kane. Yep he is three different characters, because he is a demon. An obsessed creepy demon that won’t take no for an answer. So what does this creepy narcissistic demon do… yep he changes his appearance and name to win over Lila.
 "You show up everywhere I go.
You designate me as your 'mate' without my consent. You know my calendar because you broke into my phone while I was unconscious.
That's not romantic, Lucas. That's a pattern. A terrifying one."
Lila is a psychology, major. She focuses mostly on her studies until she meets the demon. Then her world shifts. She doesn’t fall for every character. So she does have some sense. But then her pilot light goes out and she makes some stupid choices.
The book ends on a crazy cliffhanger which drives me insane because I have to wait for the author to write the next part. But I’m going to be patient unlike that demon. 🤣
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review!

“My name sounded like a benediction in his voice, hypnotic. When he kissed me again, slow and thor-ough, I dissolved. And before my brain could stage a proper interven-tion, I stomped it down.”
This was intense!
Let’s talk about the characters. Malrek AKA Lucas AKA Kane. Yep he is three different characters, because he is a demon. An obsessed creepy demon that won’t take no for an answer. So what does this creepy narcissistic demon do… yep he changes his appearance and name to win over Lila.
 "You show up everywhere I go.
You designate me as your 'mate' without my consent. You know my calendar because you broke into my phone while I was unconscious.
That's not romantic, Lucas. That's a pattern. A terrifying one."
Lila is a psychology, major. She focuses mostly on her studies until she meets the demon. Then her world shifts. She doesn’t fall for every character. So she does have some sense. But then her pilot light goes out and she makes some stupid choices.
The book ends on a crazy cliffhanger which drives me insane because I have to wait for the author to write the next part. But I’m going to be patient unlike that demon. 🤣
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review!

Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⚠️ Content Warning: This book contains dark themes and explicit elements. Please check the content warnings on the author's website before reading.
First Impression:
I was immediately drawn in by the incredibly cool cover art, and at just 162 pages, I knew it would be a fast, captivating ride. While I am generally wary of stories that end on cliffhangers, the concept of a dark, kooky, and explicit paranormal romance was exactly what I was in the mood for.
My Reactions & Emotions
An Incredibly Relatable Psych Student FMC: I absolutely loved that Lila is a psychology major who writes a blog dedicated to analyzing how she categorizes the world. It made her feel so grounded and relatable when she immediately flags the MMC's intense, fast-moving behavior as creepy rather than blindly swooning over it. Watching her logical, analytical mind interact with a supernatural world added a fantastic layer of depth.
Hooked by the Fake Identity Plot: The narrative tension completely hooked me when the MMC crafted an entirely new persona to execute a calculated "long con" for a second chance with her. Their dynamic is brilliant to watch, though knowing how incredibly pissed she is going to be when she discovers the truth kept my anxiety and excitement at an all-time high.
What I Loved
Superb Supernatural Dynamics: The lore setup is highly intriguing, especially the mystery of why Lila is so intensely appealing to various supernaturals—from being saved from a vampire attack to the MMC making high-stakes deals with a fae lord before she even knows him.
Flawless Spice: The spicy scenes scattered throughout the book are phenomenally well-written, delivering a perfect balance of dark romantic tension and high explicit heat.
How to Get 5 Stars
This book easily would have earned a full 5 stars if the ending hadn't felt so frustratingly abrupt. The pacing would have felt much more seamless if the book had concluded right before their final date—specifically when the MMC goes to the club. Leaving off right when she invites him up feels a bit too cruel, whereas cutting it at the club would have left an amazing, suspenseful hook for the next installment without disrupting the narrative flow.
Overall, with a brilliant psychological edge, excellent explicit tension, and a fascinating long con plot, this is a fantastic series opener that lays a wonderful foundation for the rest of the series.
Bonus Scene Note: I also read the bonus scene for chapter 14, and honestly, I don't know why this wasn't just included in the main story. It definitely would have added immense value to the overall plot and character development. I always hate when authors lock away scenes or stories as "bonuses" when they clearly belonged in the original book.
⚠️ Content Warning: This book contains dark themes and explicit elements. Please check the content warnings on the author's website before reading.
First Impression:
I was immediately drawn in by the incredibly cool cover art, and at just 162 pages, I knew it would be a fast, captivating ride. While I am generally wary of stories that end on cliffhangers, the concept of a dark, kooky, and explicit paranormal romance was exactly what I was in the mood for.
My Reactions & Emotions
An Incredibly Relatable Psych Student FMC: I absolutely loved that Lila is a psychology major who writes a blog dedicated to analyzing how she categorizes the world. It made her feel so grounded and relatable when she immediately flags the MMC's intense, fast-moving behavior as creepy rather than blindly swooning over it. Watching her logical, analytical mind interact with a supernatural world added a fantastic layer of depth.
Hooked by the Fake Identity Plot: The narrative tension completely hooked me when the MMC crafted an entirely new persona to execute a calculated "long con" for a second chance with her. Their dynamic is brilliant to watch, though knowing how incredibly pissed she is going to be when she discovers the truth kept my anxiety and excitement at an all-time high.
What I Loved
Superb Supernatural Dynamics: The lore setup is highly intriguing, especially the mystery of why Lila is so intensely appealing to various supernaturals—from being saved from a vampire attack to the MMC making high-stakes deals with a fae lord before she even knows him.
Flawless Spice: The spicy scenes scattered throughout the book are phenomenally well-written, delivering a perfect balance of dark romantic tension and high explicit heat.
How to Get 5 Stars
This book easily would have earned a full 5 stars if the ending hadn't felt so frustratingly abrupt. The pacing would have felt much more seamless if the book had concluded right before their final date—specifically when the MMC goes to the club. Leaving off right when she invites him up feels a bit too cruel, whereas cutting it at the club would have left an amazing, suspenseful hook for the next installment without disrupting the narrative flow.
Overall, with a brilliant psychological edge, excellent explicit tension, and a fascinating long con plot, this is a fantastic series opener that lays a wonderful foundation for the rest of the series.
Bonus Scene Note: I also read the bonus scene for chapter 14, and honestly, I don't know why this wasn't just included in the main story. It definitely would have added immense value to the overall plot and character development. I always hate when authors lock away scenes or stories as "bonuses" when they clearly belonged in the original book.
Review of advance copy
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Shattered Masks: Marking Laila, the first book in the Infernal Princess series by Salem Sinner, before its release at the end of June. Going into this book, I expected a very spicy dark romance with heavy stalking elements—exactly the kind of book I usually love. I also appreciated that it was only around 160 pages long, which made it the perfect read during finals season. Even as a relatively slow reader, I finished it in less than two hours.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, but it wasn’t quite what I expected.
One thing that stood out to me immediately was a scene in the first chapter involving a favor. In so many books, characters agree to vague, open-ended favors that inevitably come back to haunt them later. Here, the main character was actually smart about it. Instead of agreeing to anything and everything, he set clear limits and conditions. He essentially said, “I’ll help you, but only within these boundaries.” It was refreshing to see a character think ahead rather than walk straight into an obvious trap.
As for the romance, the book wasn’t nearly as spicy as I anticipated. However, what it lacked in spice, it made up for with manipulation, obsession, and stalking elements. I’ve honestly never read a book quite like this before. The psychological aspects of the story were fascinating, and I found myself completely invested in the characters and their dynamics. That might say something about my reading tastes, but I absolutely loved that side of the story.
My biggest issue with the book was the ending. I was nearing the final chapter thinking, “There is so much left to happen—how is all of this going to be resolved?” What I didn’t expect was for the story to end on a cliffhanger. I was completely caught off guard and immediately wanted more.
After finishing, I discovered that this is only the beginning of the story, with Shattered Masks: Claiming Laila and Shattered Masks: Binding Laila planned as future installments. I’m genuinely excited to see where the series goes next.
So, Salem Sinner, I hope you’re writing fast, because I need the next books as soon as possible.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 stars
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, but it wasn’t quite what I expected.
One thing that stood out to me immediately was a scene in the first chapter involving a favor. In so many books, characters agree to vague, open-ended favors that inevitably come back to haunt them later. Here, the main character was actually smart about it. Instead of agreeing to anything and everything, he set clear limits and conditions. He essentially said, “I’ll help you, but only within these boundaries.” It was refreshing to see a character think ahead rather than walk straight into an obvious trap.
As for the romance, the book wasn’t nearly as spicy as I anticipated. However, what it lacked in spice, it made up for with manipulation, obsession, and stalking elements. I’ve honestly never read a book quite like this before. The psychological aspects of the story were fascinating, and I found myself completely invested in the characters and their dynamics. That might say something about my reading tastes, but I absolutely loved that side of the story.
My biggest issue with the book was the ending. I was nearing the final chapter thinking, “There is so much left to happen—how is all of this going to be resolved?” What I didn’t expect was for the story to end on a cliffhanger. I was completely caught off guard and immediately wanted more.
After finishing, I discovered that this is only the beginning of the story, with Shattered Masks: Claiming Laila and Shattered Masks: Binding Laila planned as future installments. I’m genuinely excited to see where the series goes next.
So, Salem Sinner, I hope you’re writing fast, because I need the next books as soon as possible.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 stars
Review of advance copy
First of all, thank you to BookSirens and the author for providing me with an ARC copy of this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a beautiful and different book.
After some of the books I have read recently, Shattered Masks: Marking Lila felt so refreshing. At first, it seemed like it was moving in the direction of a typical dark romance, but the plot twist the author delivered was genuinely impressive. I absolutely did not expect the story to evolve in that direction, and I loved it.
I really liked both main characters. Their communication made me so happy, and their dynamic kept me completely invested. The side characters had just enough presence without taking over the story, and they helped the plot move forward naturally.
I honestly did not even realize I had reached the end of the book. And that cliffhanger? Wow.
I think it was a smart choice for the author to continue the story in a second book. If everything had been forced into one book, I do not think it would have had the same impact.
There was only one spicy scene, and it was perfectly balanced. I actually loved that the story itself was more captivating than the spice.
A definite 5 stars from me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a beautiful and different book.
After some of the books I have read recently, Shattered Masks: Marking Lila felt so refreshing. At first, it seemed like it was moving in the direction of a typical dark romance, but the plot twist the author delivered was genuinely impressive. I absolutely did not expect the story to evolve in that direction, and I loved it.
I really liked both main characters. Their communication made me so happy, and their dynamic kept me completely invested. The side characters had just enough presence without taking over the story, and they helped the plot move forward naturally.
I honestly did not even realize I had reached the end of the book. And that cliffhanger? Wow.
I think it was a smart choice for the author to continue the story in a second book. If everything had been forced into one book, I do not think it would have had the same impact.
There was only one spicy scene, and it was perfectly balanced. I actually loved that the story itself was more captivating than the spice.
A definite 5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy
Malrek and Lila’s first encounter doesn’t just spark a story—it detonates one. Their connection is dangerous, magnetic, and impossible to look away from. What begins as a collision of obsession and fate quickly twists into something far more complicated, pulling the plot into unexpected, addictive territory.
Malrek, a demon consumed by his devotion to Lila, wants nothing more than to claim her as his consort—but only with her willing heart. When circumstances force him to reinvent himself to win her back, the emotional tension becomes absolutely irresistible. Watching him fight for her, in every form he takes, is the kind of slow-burn ache that keeps you turning pages long after you meant to stop.
This series didn’t just entertain me—it swallowed me whole. I laughed, I cried, and I felt every sharp, tender, chaotic emotion right alongside the characters. It’s the rare kind of story that grabs you by the soul and refuses to let go until you’ve devoured every last book.
Salem Sinner has earned a permanent place on my must-read list, and I’m already itching to dive into more of their worlds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Malrek, a demon consumed by his devotion to Lila, wants nothing more than to claim her as his consort—but only with her willing heart. When circumstances force him to reinvent himself to win her back, the emotional tension becomes absolutely irresistible. Watching him fight for her, in every form he takes, is the kind of slow-burn ache that keeps you turning pages long after you meant to stop.
This series didn’t just entertain me—it swallowed me whole. I laughed, I cried, and I felt every sharp, tender, chaotic emotion right alongside the characters. It’s the rare kind of story that grabs you by the soul and refuses to let go until you’ve devoured every last book.
Salem Sinner has earned a permanent place on my must-read list, and I’m already itching to dive into more of their worlds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was short, easy to read, and pulled me in more than I expected. I’m really glad I read the author’s note at the beginning because I had to keep that in mind while reading. Some of the things the MMC was doing early on were honestly a little icky and had me questioning if I wanted to continue.
I’m glad I stuck with it, though. Around 30% in, I found myself fully invested in the characters, the story, and where everything was headed. The pacing picked up, and I became much more interested in seeing how things would unfold.
My only complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. Of course, it also ends in a way that immediately makes you want to pick up book two, so now I’m curious to see where the story goes next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m glad I stuck with it, though. Around 30% in, I found myself fully invested in the characters, the story, and where everything was headed. The pacing picked up, and I became much more interested in seeing how things would unfold.
My only complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. Of course, it also ends in a way that immediately makes you want to pick up book two, so now I’m curious to see where the story goes next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This was very different from what I expected. Yes it is dark, and yes it is spicy, but this was a different kind of stalker/obsession. The intensity was very calculated and Lila second guessing her instincts made me want to scream.
My only issue with this book was the pacing. The Lucas storyline felt like wasted time because the reveal hasn't happened and everyone at Reign doesn’t actually contribute to the story yet. This book felt more like world building and scene setting. The cliffhanger was a bit anticlimactic for me, again because of the tangent with Lucas, so the stakes didn't feel that high.
I'm intrigued to see where this series goes and how the reveals will come about.
Thank you to BookSirens and Salem Sinner for the free eARC.
My only issue with this book was the pacing. The Lucas storyline felt like wasted time because the reveal hasn't happened and everyone at Reign doesn’t actually contribute to the story yet. This book felt more like world building and scene setting. The cliffhanger was a bit anticlimactic for me, again because of the tangent with Lucas, so the stakes didn't feel that high.
I'm intrigued to see where this series goes and how the reveals will come about.
Thank you to BookSirens and Salem Sinner for the free eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was a quick, steamy read, but with some yearning. I enjoyed the writing style and was immediately drawn into the book. There’s not a lot of slow build up with a story this short and it starts off with action. I love that we get both POV from the main characters. Lila is intriguing and I can’t wait to know more about her! She’s intelligent, self aware, analytical and yet doubtful about what she’s feeling/thinking. There’s definitely more to her than even she knows. Malrek is a deliciously obsessive demon. There’s some questions I have regarding exactly who Malrek is (or what he is) but I’m sure they’ll be answered in the next 2 books which I’ll definitely be reading!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was actually much different than i expected it to be. It started with the usual overly possessive stalker type mmc, Malrek, going after the girl, Lila, he suddenly decided was his. Somewhere in there the story took a sharp turn and became even more interesting.
Lila is smart and calculating. Her psychology background basically demands it of her. Malrek, whoms a demon, has basically just reworked his entire personality and life to possess this woman.
This one ends on a cliffhanger. I honestly hadn't realized it was ending until it stopped lol. I'm definitely in for book two!
Lila is smart and calculating. Her psychology background basically demands it of her. Malrek, whoms a demon, has basically just reworked his entire personality and life to possess this woman.
This one ends on a cliffhanger. I honestly hadn't realized it was ending until it stopped lol. I'm definitely in for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shattered Masks: Marking Lila by Salem Sinner starts with an obsessive stalker dynamic, then veers into something far more unpredictable and intriguing. Lila approaches situations with a thoughtful, analytical mindset, making her reactions feel grounded even as her world shifts. Malrek’s relentless pursuit keeps the tension simmering throughout. The story moves quickly, blending obsession, secrets, and unexpected turns. The final pages end on a moment charged with anticipation, making the next installment feel impossible to ignore.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A wildly addictive read that hooks you from the first page! The dynamic between Lila’s false sense of security and Malrek’s absolute control is everything. He has infiltrated every corner of her life, making their chemistry toxic and the vibes intensely stalkerish. He is the ultimate possessive, boundary-crossing villain who leaves absolutely no room for escape. Just a heads up though—it ends on a cliffhanger.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2026
“Be Careful of the Perfect Man”
Shattered Masks:Marking Lila by Salem Sinner is a quick, enjoyable read about a supernatural, Malrek, seeking his idea of the perfect girl, Lila Moon. He attempts to seduce her in one persona and rushes things-scaring Lila off. So, he tries with a different persona and soon has Lila chasing him. The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the next book, Shattered Masks:Claiming Lila.
Shattered Masks:Marking Lila by Salem Sinner is a quick, enjoyable read about a supernatural, Malrek, seeking his idea of the perfect girl, Lila Moon. He attempts to seduce her in one persona and rushes things-scaring Lila off. So, he tries with a different persona and soon has Lila chasing him. The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the next book, Shattered Masks:Claiming Lila.
Review of advance copy
I enjoy this way more than I was expecting. I really wanted to apply even though I read the blur it still really didn't make sense of what I was getting into but I'm very intrigued to see what the next two books will entail. I love how the MMC basically can be whoever he wants to be to suit his purposes.
Review of advance copy
Overall, a pretty good read but I wanted a little bit more background on the MMC to give me more of a reason to like him. The psychological analysis part of it is fascinating and makes it a page turner for me. Very intrigued to read book 2. I received an advanced copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
June 23, 2026
I think this is a 3.5 for me.
So the book was fairly easy to digest. I wasn't in awe of it but it was a pretty good read. The story felt a little too short and rushed though. Like I kind of wanted it to be more fleshed out. It was still enticing enough to keep my focus on it. But it just wasn't too gripping.
So the book was fairly easy to digest. I wasn't in awe of it but it was a pretty good read. The story felt a little too short and rushed though. Like I kind of wanted it to be more fleshed out. It was still enticing enough to keep my focus on it. But it just wasn't too gripping.
June 24, 2026
I was very intrigued by this premise. Demon that falls for a human that sees and senses too much. We still don’t know why she’s this way and why he has to work so hard to get her. I mean, he’s a total hottie! Who wouldn’t want to be consumed by a man that wants to make you his entire world?
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next books.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series is so good! The way the plan keeps adapting when Lila does not like one thing the MMC does is slightly funny and it was almost too quick of a read. I am glad I could get book 2 right away to enjoy that as well!
Review of advance copy
Aaaaaccchhhhh!! This book was so good and there's a cliffhanger!! I can't wait for the next one in the trilogy!! Loved it!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2026
I loved that this book took me by surprise! That twist! The cliff hanger has me wanting more! I can’t wait for the next book!
Editing
Editing
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews