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Where The Devil Kneels: A Story of Devotion and Darkness
324 pages, Paperback
Published July 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 7, 2026
** ARC Review Incoming **
Thank you to Sable L. Cross and Booksprout for allowing me to be part of the Arc Team and for giving me a free copy of this book.
The premise of this read was refreshingly different for me, and I was completely drawn into the mystery of the secret passageways and the hidden society of protectors. Cross has a wonderfully descriptive writing style that evolves alongside the story, shifting seamlessly from eerie and unsettling to pulse-pounding, defiant and tender.
The characters have a great deal of depth, but I found myself wanting even more of their histories. Each one is written with just enough intrigue to leave you desperate to learn more, which is both a strength and a frustration in the best possible way.
My only real criticism was the pacing of the romance. It felt as though it moved too quickly from tender uncertainty to a more dominant dynamic. The book would actually have been perfect with the tentative and beautifully written initial intimate experiences between the 2 main characters and would have flowed much better with rest of the writing style and character shaping.
Overall, this was an atmospheric, unique read with compelling characters and a premise that kept me invested from beginning to end. Definitely worth picking up if you enjoy dark mysteries with an immersive gothic feel.
Thank you to Sable L. Cross and Booksprout for allowing me to be part of the Arc Team and for giving me a free copy of this book.
The premise of this read was refreshingly different for me, and I was completely drawn into the mystery of the secret passageways and the hidden society of protectors. Cross has a wonderfully descriptive writing style that evolves alongside the story, shifting seamlessly from eerie and unsettling to pulse-pounding, defiant and tender.
The characters have a great deal of depth, but I found myself wanting even more of their histories. Each one is written with just enough intrigue to leave you desperate to learn more, which is both a strength and a frustration in the best possible way.
My only real criticism was the pacing of the romance. It felt as though it moved too quickly from tender uncertainty to a more dominant dynamic. The book would actually have been perfect with the tentative and beautifully written initial intimate experiences between the 2 main characters and would have flowed much better with rest of the writing style and character shaping.
Overall, this was an atmospheric, unique read with compelling characters and a premise that kept me invested from beginning to end. Definitely worth picking up if you enjoy dark mysteries with an immersive gothic feel.
July 30, 2026
Some doors hide monsters. Others hide the one person willing to stand between you and them.
This story completely pulled me in from the very first chapter. What starts as a seemingly simple inheritance quickly spirals into a haunting mystery filled with hidden passages, long-buried secrets, unsettling disappearances, and a town where nothing—and no one—is quite what they seem. The atmosphere is rich with suspense, creating a constant sense of unease that kept me turning the pages, desperate to uncover the truth alongside Elara.
Elara is exactly the kind of heroine I love. She's intelligent, resilient, and fiercely independent, refusing to let fear dictate her choices. Rather than running from the mysteries surrounding her inherited estate, she confronts them head-on, even when every new discovery raises more questions than answers. Watching her slowly piece together the truth while learning that accepting help doesn't mean sacrificing her strength made her journey incredibly rewarding.
Silas was an equally compelling character. Quiet, guarded, and shaped by years of isolation and duty, he's spent his life protecting from the shadows, believing his purpose was more important than his own happiness. The "watcher and watched" dynamic could have easily felt uncomfortable, but instead it evolves into something surprisingly emotional. As trust replaces suspicion, their relationship transforms into one built on mutual respect, unwavering loyalty, and genuine partnership. Silas's devotion is fierce without overshadowing Elara's strength, and together they become stronger than either could be alone.
The romance is a beautifully paced slow burn that allows every emotional moment to feel earned. The chemistry between Elara and Silas simmers beneath the surface before erupting into an intensely passionate relationship that perfectly balances tenderness with undeniable heat. Their connection isn't built solely on attraction—it's forged through vulnerability, sacrifice, and the willingness to choose each other despite everything standing in their way.
Beyond the romance, this book shines as a romantic suspense. The mystery surrounding the estate, the hidden rooms, the town's disturbing history, and the dangerous legacy woven through every chapter kept me completely invested. Every revelation added another layer to the story, and I loved how the plot continually blurred the line between protector and threat, forcing both the characters and the reader to question who could truly be trusted.
At its heart, this is a story about trust, healing, legacy, and finding someone who truly sees you. It's about stepping out of the shadows, choosing love over duty, and discovering that the greatest inheritance isn't a crumbling estate—it's finding the courage to build a future with someone who refuses to let you face the darkness alone.
If you love dark romantic suspense with protective heroes, strong heroines, hidden passageways, gothic atmosphere, small-town secrets, emotional slow-burn romance, and plenty of steam, this is one you won't want to miss. It delivers mystery, emotion, and romance in equal measure, making it a captivating and unforgettable read from beginning to end.
August 3, 2026
Where The Devil Kneels: A Story of Devotion and Darkness written by Sable Cross
is a gothic mystery that invites readers into a sprawling mansion filled with secrets, history, and a purpose far greater than its decaying walls first suggest. When an inheritance places Elara at the center of the estate's legacy, she finds herself drawn into a world where hidden passageways, whispered legends, and a mysterious guardian reveal the true mission of the mansion: providing sanctuary to those in need.
What surprised me most about this novel was that the mansion itself often outshines the characters. While Elara and Silas serve as the heart of the story, it is the estate and its ever-present atmosphere that truly command the reader's attention. The house feels alive, carrying generations of secrets and responsibilities within its walls. Every discovery adds another layer to the mystery, making the estate feel like a character in its own right.
As a reader, I often found myself frustrated with Elara. Faced with increasingly strange events and the unsettling realization that the mansion seems to be watching over her, she occasionally tests the reader's patience. Yet her determination and relentless pursuit of answers ultimately become some of her strongest qualities. Rather than retreating from the unknown, she continues to investigate, allowing the mystery to unfold naturally.
Silas presents a stark contrast. Stoic, dutiful, and bound by family tradition, he has spent his life serving as the mansion's guardian. His role as both protector and watcher has left him isolated, but his growing connection with Elara gradually pulls him from the shadows. Watching him reveal the truths hidden within the estate became one of the novel's more rewarding aspects.
The town itself adds another layer of intrigue. Rumors of missing people and speculation surrounding the mansion create an atmosphere of suspicion and fear. However, the truth behind these disappearances reveals the novel's central theme. The mansion is not a place of darkness but one of refuge. The relationship between the Guardian and the Inheritor becomes increasingly important as readers come to understand the responsibility they share in protecting the vulnerable.
For readers who enjoy gothic settings, mysterious estates, hidden legacies, and stories where atmosphere is just as important as the characters, Where The Devil Kneels offers an immersive and compelling reading experience.
I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery.
is a gothic mystery that invites readers into a sprawling mansion filled with secrets, history, and a purpose far greater than its decaying walls first suggest. When an inheritance places Elara at the center of the estate's legacy, she finds herself drawn into a world where hidden passageways, whispered legends, and a mysterious guardian reveal the true mission of the mansion: providing sanctuary to those in need.
What surprised me most about this novel was that the mansion itself often outshines the characters. While Elara and Silas serve as the heart of the story, it is the estate and its ever-present atmosphere that truly command the reader's attention. The house feels alive, carrying generations of secrets and responsibilities within its walls. Every discovery adds another layer to the mystery, making the estate feel like a character in its own right.
As a reader, I often found myself frustrated with Elara. Faced with increasingly strange events and the unsettling realization that the mansion seems to be watching over her, she occasionally tests the reader's patience. Yet her determination and relentless pursuit of answers ultimately become some of her strongest qualities. Rather than retreating from the unknown, she continues to investigate, allowing the mystery to unfold naturally.
Silas presents a stark contrast. Stoic, dutiful, and bound by family tradition, he has spent his life serving as the mansion's guardian. His role as both protector and watcher has left him isolated, but his growing connection with Elara gradually pulls him from the shadows. Watching him reveal the truths hidden within the estate became one of the novel's more rewarding aspects.
The town itself adds another layer of intrigue. Rumors of missing people and speculation surrounding the mansion create an atmosphere of suspicion and fear. However, the truth behind these disappearances reveals the novel's central theme. The mansion is not a place of darkness but one of refuge. The relationship between the Guardian and the Inheritor becomes increasingly important as readers come to understand the responsibility they share in protecting the vulnerable.
For readers who enjoy gothic settings, mysterious estates, hidden legacies, and stories where atmosphere is just as important as the characters, Where The Devil Kneels offers an immersive and compelling reading experience.
I received an Advanced Review Copy (or ARC) on Reedsy Discovery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2026
Some doors hide monsters. Some hide the only person willing to save you.
When Elara inherits a decaying estate, she expects paperwork, repairs, and a chance to rebuild. Instead, she finds secrets in the walls, a town shaped by disappearances, and signs that someone has been watching her long before she arrived. The deeper she digs, the harder it is to tell danger from protection.
Silas has spent years in the shadows, devoted to a purpose that defines his life. Controlled, isolated, and relentless, he understands the darkness beneath the town's surface. As old threats stir, the distance between guardian and inheritor gives way to something neither expected.
What begins as suspicion turns into trust. What starts as observation becomes devotion. Together, Elara and Silas uncover a legacy built on sacrifice, responsibility, and difficult choices. But every answer has a cost, and protecting what matters means deciding how much they'll risk for each other.
Elara begins determined to rely only on herself, but her search for answers teaches her that trust doesn't have to cost her independence. Silas moves from secrecy and duty into choice, learning that devotion and belonging can exist together. Their connection grows from watcher and watched into equal partners, with emotional intimacy deepening their bond.
A dark, ultra-steamy, romantic suspense featuring a watcher and watched dynamic, hidden passages, small town secrets, protective devotion, slow-burn trust, and a guardian who steps out of the shadows for the woman he can't stop protecting. It explores trust, isolation, duty, survival, legacy, healing, and the difference between being watched and being truly seen. It’s about a woman who inherits more than a house, a man who deserves more than duty, and a partnership built on choice, trust, and courage.
The Elevator Pitch: A woman inherits a decaying estate and discovers that its deepest secret is not hidden in the walls, but in the man who has spent years watching from within them. As buried crimes resurface and danger closes in, suspicion gives way to trust, forcing two isolated souls to decide whether protection can become partnership. What begins as a mystery wrapped in shadows becomes a story about choosing each other in a world built on fear.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
When Elara inherits a decaying estate, she expects paperwork, repairs, and a chance to rebuild. Instead, she finds secrets in the walls, a town shaped by disappearances, and signs that someone has been watching her long before she arrived. The deeper she digs, the harder it is to tell danger from protection.
Silas has spent years in the shadows, devoted to a purpose that defines his life. Controlled, isolated, and relentless, he understands the darkness beneath the town's surface. As old threats stir, the distance between guardian and inheritor gives way to something neither expected.
What begins as suspicion turns into trust. What starts as observation becomes devotion. Together, Elara and Silas uncover a legacy built on sacrifice, responsibility, and difficult choices. But every answer has a cost, and protecting what matters means deciding how much they'll risk for each other.
Elara begins determined to rely only on herself, but her search for answers teaches her that trust doesn't have to cost her independence. Silas moves from secrecy and duty into choice, learning that devotion and belonging can exist together. Their connection grows from watcher and watched into equal partners, with emotional intimacy deepening their bond.
A dark, ultra-steamy, romantic suspense featuring a watcher and watched dynamic, hidden passages, small town secrets, protective devotion, slow-burn trust, and a guardian who steps out of the shadows for the woman he can't stop protecting. It explores trust, isolation, duty, survival, legacy, healing, and the difference between being watched and being truly seen. It’s about a woman who inherits more than a house, a man who deserves more than duty, and a partnership built on choice, trust, and courage.
The Elevator Pitch: A woman inherits a decaying estate and discovers that its deepest secret is not hidden in the walls, but in the man who has spent years watching from within them. As buried crimes resurface and danger closes in, suspicion gives way to trust, forcing two isolated souls to decide whether protection can become partnership. What begins as a mystery wrapped in shadows becomes a story about choosing each other in a world built on fear.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
June 26, 2026
Some stories pull you into the light, while others tempt you into the darkness—and Where The Devil Kneels was a journey I couldn't look away from.
From the opening chapters, Sable L. Cross created an atmosphere that was haunting, immersive, and impossible to ignore. The blend of darkness, devotion, and emotional conflict made this a compelling read, and I found myself wanting to uncover every secret hidden within its pages. 📖✨
One of the highlights for me was the character work. The cast felt layered and emotionally complex, with relationships that evolved naturally as the story unfolded. I especially enjoyed the tension between vulnerability and strength, which added depth to both the characters and the overall narrative. 🖤
The writing was beautifully descriptive, bringing the world to life with a rich, gothic feel that perfectly complemented the story's darker themes. While there were a few moments where I wished certain plot points or emotional beats had been explored in a little more depth, it didn't take away from my enjoyment. Instead, it left me wanting to spend even more time in this fascinating world.
By the final page, I was left thinking about the characters and the choices they made, which is always the sign of a memorable read. 🌙
💌 A heartfelt thank you to Sable L. Cross for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Where The Devil Kneels: A Story of Devotion and Darkness. I'm so grateful to have been trusted with an ARC and to experience this story before its release. As always, these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. 🤍
From the opening chapters, Sable L. Cross created an atmosphere that was haunting, immersive, and impossible to ignore. The blend of darkness, devotion, and emotional conflict made this a compelling read, and I found myself wanting to uncover every secret hidden within its pages. 📖✨
One of the highlights for me was the character work. The cast felt layered and emotionally complex, with relationships that evolved naturally as the story unfolded. I especially enjoyed the tension between vulnerability and strength, which added depth to both the characters and the overall narrative. 🖤
The writing was beautifully descriptive, bringing the world to life with a rich, gothic feel that perfectly complemented the story's darker themes. While there were a few moments where I wished certain plot points or emotional beats had been explored in a little more depth, it didn't take away from my enjoyment. Instead, it left me wanting to spend even more time in this fascinating world.
By the final page, I was left thinking about the characters and the choices they made, which is always the sign of a memorable read. 🌙
💌 A heartfelt thank you to Sable L. Cross for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Where The Devil Kneels: A Story of Devotion and Darkness. I'm so grateful to have been trusted with an ARC and to experience this story before its release. As always, these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. 🤍
July 19, 2026
I picked up Where the Devil Kneels because the words "watcher" and "missing townspeople" immediately grabbed my attention. I went in expecting a dark romance with a creepy haunted house. That is not what this book is... and honestly, I ended up enjoying what it delivered even more.
Elara inherits her grandmother's house, believing she's finally found a place to call home after growing up in the foster care system. Instead, she discovers a mystery that only gets stranger the deeper she digs. The house has an unsettling atmosphere, and she can't shake the feeling that someone is always watching her.
Silas is that watcher, and that's about all I can say without spoiling the story. His role slowly unfolds throughout the book, and I really enjoyed uncovering the truth alongside Elara. The mystery kept me turning the pages, and every answer seemed to lead to even more questions.
I'd classify this as a slow-burn gothic romance with plenty of suspense and an eerie atmosphere. The romance develops naturally alongside the mystery rather than overshadowing it, which worked well for this story. One line that really stayed with me was, "Partnership rather than solitary vigilance." It perfectly captures the relationship that grows by the end and left me smiling after everything the characters had been through.
If you're looking for a gothic romance with mystery, suspense, and a unique twist that goes beyond the typical haunted house story, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elara inherits her grandmother's house, believing she's finally found a place to call home after growing up in the foster care system. Instead, she discovers a mystery that only gets stranger the deeper she digs. The house has an unsettling atmosphere, and she can't shake the feeling that someone is always watching her.
Silas is that watcher, and that's about all I can say without spoiling the story. His role slowly unfolds throughout the book, and I really enjoyed uncovering the truth alongside Elara. The mystery kept me turning the pages, and every answer seemed to lead to even more questions.
I'd classify this as a slow-burn gothic romance with plenty of suspense and an eerie atmosphere. The romance develops naturally alongside the mystery rather than overshadowing it, which worked well for this story. One line that really stayed with me was, "Partnership rather than solitary vigilance." It perfectly captures the relationship that grows by the end and left me smiling after everything the characters had been through.
If you're looking for a gothic romance with mystery, suspense, and a unique twist that goes beyond the typical haunted house story, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2026
A book that launches you off the couch and sends your heart rate through the roof when you are reading at home in ~silence~
This book hooks you with just enough of a dark creepy chill to spook you but also keep you reading past midnight to just try to figure out the truth regardless of how scared you are.
Then the spooky turns into an intoxicating need and you’ll be drawn into this story in a much different way.
I loved the atmosphere of this book - I was envisioning dark gothic houses surrounded by lush forests, dripping candles on old paper, dark skies with a glowing moon. This is one of those books that illustrated everything so well I had a movie playing in my head the whole time.
The slow burn - starts off delicate and unconventional, but develops into something you will be rooting for as the depth of feelings are revealed.
One element I especially enjoyed was that the author did a great job of pacing the emotionally charged plot points with just the right amount of reprieve from the intensity along the way. I never wanted to put this book down! The ending felt very complete and satisfying.
The characters were well developed and I fell in love with more than just the main ones. The side characters are equally well written and full of depth and history to cling to in order to make the emotional impact of this story even bigger.
This book hooks you with just enough of a dark creepy chill to spook you but also keep you reading past midnight to just try to figure out the truth regardless of how scared you are.
Then the spooky turns into an intoxicating need and you’ll be drawn into this story in a much different way.
I loved the atmosphere of this book - I was envisioning dark gothic houses surrounded by lush forests, dripping candles on old paper, dark skies with a glowing moon. This is one of those books that illustrated everything so well I had a movie playing in my head the whole time.
The slow burn - starts off delicate and unconventional, but develops into something you will be rooting for as the depth of feelings are revealed.
One element I especially enjoyed was that the author did a great job of pacing the emotionally charged plot points with just the right amount of reprieve from the intensity along the way. I never wanted to put this book down! The ending felt very complete and satisfying.
The characters were well developed and I fell in love with more than just the main ones. The side characters are equally well written and full of depth and history to cling to in order to make the emotional impact of this story even bigger.
July 7, 2026
I got this book as an ARC for prerelease so I understand that there are some things that could be adjusted before it comes out.
I enjoyed this book and the way it wrapped the mystery of the house together with the romance. I think the house truly felt like a secondary character in the story with how it was described and the way it affected the plot. There are some books that I read and cringe at the poorly written "spooky" factor, but I felt like this one was done extremely well with the description of the setting and ambience.
The romance was written well, but it wasn't the main focus as you would think from the book's description. I was expecting a lot more romance to be woven in with the plot.
Overall, I felt that the book exceeded expectations when it came to the setting and the way the book felt but there were a few negatives. I didn't like the pacing once you get to chapter four or five. It felt like the pacing was far too slow compared to how the beginning set it up. I also didn't like that this was described as a romance or romantasy plot and the romance was so slow to develop. I feel like it was an after thought in a lot of the chapters where it was supposed to be highlighted.
I enjoyed this book and the way it wrapped the mystery of the house together with the romance. I think the house truly felt like a secondary character in the story with how it was described and the way it affected the plot. There are some books that I read and cringe at the poorly written "spooky" factor, but I felt like this one was done extremely well with the description of the setting and ambience.
The romance was written well, but it wasn't the main focus as you would think from the book's description. I was expecting a lot more romance to be woven in with the plot.
Overall, I felt that the book exceeded expectations when it came to the setting and the way the book felt but there were a few negatives. I didn't like the pacing once you get to chapter four or five. It felt like the pacing was far too slow compared to how the beginning set it up. I also didn't like that this was described as a romance or romantasy plot and the romance was so slow to develop. I feel like it was an after thought in a lot of the chapters where it was supposed to be highlighted.
July 18, 2026
Starting this off with Elara having inherited this dark and decaying castle was a really great start. It felt original. Her wanting to rebuild and bring it back to life. Folding hidden passages and so many cool things within. It painted a wonderful picture to start with. Then finding that she’s being watched. But the watcher doesn’t have ill intentions. He wants to protect her but do it from a distance that keeps him hidden. I loved Silas. I loved that he finally made himself known and that the two of them decided to with tighter when things started getting weird.
The town was strange. It had a definite odd feeling. And I loved that it was written in such a way the it gave me chills just thinking about it. The way these two slowly formed a bond. Finding trust with one another. And how it continued to build into something that ignited between them. It was intense and steamy.
This story was written with such a depth and description that it was so easy to paint a picture in my mind. And I loved it for that. The feelings this evoked was awesome. I loved the darkness, the twists and turns. It was an absolutely amazing read.
The town was strange. It had a definite odd feeling. And I loved that it was written in such a way the it gave me chills just thinking about it. The way these two slowly formed a bond. Finding trust with one another. And how it continued to build into something that ignited between them. It was intense and steamy.
This story was written with such a depth and description that it was so easy to paint a picture in my mind. And I loved it for that. The feelings this evoked was awesome. I loved the darkness, the twists and turns. It was an absolutely amazing read.
July 18, 2026
It was interesting how the story's secret/mystery slowly unraveled with half-truths, warnings, and strange sightings. I kept wondering if there was someone sinister living there, giving POTO vibes, or someone good with valid reasons. It turns out there's a bigger picture, a last resort—a way to deal with and protect against what went wrong in town. Therefore, I was wondering if the injustice and crimes would be handled properly and openly this time, not behind walls, keeping their course as always.
It would be a more special story if it weren't for the typical description with comparisons of the MMC, and some of the FMC's physical reactions seemed unbelievable for her to feel in some situations. I would more readily believe it if the hero, maybe even unintentionally, seduced/wooed the heroine with small, tentative gestures, and her reaction would be emotional, with a fluttering heart and butterflies in her stomach, but not in a lower region.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It would be a more special story if it weren't for the typical description with comparisons of the MMC, and some of the FMC's physical reactions seemed unbelievable for her to feel in some situations. I would more readily believe it if the hero, maybe even unintentionally, seduced/wooed the heroine with small, tentative gestures, and her reaction would be emotional, with a fluttering heart and butterflies in her stomach, but not in a lower region.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2026
This should have been exactly the kind of book I would enjoy. Unfortunately, the writing ruined what could have been an interesting story. It is very repetitive and explains too much. Every emotion is described, explained and then repeated several times. Elara’s heart is always racing, her stomach is tight, she struggles to breathe or she feels like someone is watching her. Even the Gothic atmosphere soon becomes repetitive, with the same descriptions and images used again and again.
The dialogue often feels unnatural, the English is sometimes awkward and there are typos and continuity problems. Some plot points also seem to appear exactly when the story needs them, without enough explanation or development.
Of course, I can’t know how this book was written, but I see two possibilities: either it was heavily assisted by AI without enough editing or the writing and editing are simply very poor. Either way, I can only judge what I read and it didn’t work for me.
It’s a shame because the idea had potential, but an interesting idea can’t make up for weak writing.
The dialogue often feels unnatural, the English is sometimes awkward and there are typos and continuity problems. Some plot points also seem to appear exactly when the story needs them, without enough explanation or development.
Of course, I can’t know how this book was written, but I see two possibilities: either it was heavily assisted by AI without enough editing or the writing and editing are simply very poor. Either way, I can only judge what I read and it didn’t work for me.
It’s a shame because the idea had potential, but an interesting idea can’t make up for weak writing.
June 14, 2026
Overall, I enjoyed this book, and the mystery of the house's true purpose kept me interested at the beginning. I thought the concept was unique, and at times, the house almost felt like a character in itself. It was a bit spooky at the beginning, and the mystery of the town and the house's role in it kept me reading. However, after the first few chapters, the pacing of the book started to feel too slow. Once the purpose was revealed, it started to feel repetitive, and the new revelations felt like more of the same.
I enjoyed the romance aspect of this book, although it definitely wasn't the main focus. I especially liked the MMC. The only negative is that it didn't feel like the romance developed along with the rest of the plot. It almost felt tacked on at the end of the main conflict, which made it feel less natural and a little more forced.
Note: I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
I enjoyed the romance aspect of this book, although it definitely wasn't the main focus. I especially liked the MMC. The only negative is that it didn't feel like the romance developed along with the rest of the plot. It almost felt tacked on at the end of the main conflict, which made it feel less natural and a little more forced.
Note: I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
June 23, 2026
Thank you, Sable L. Cross for the ARC, in return for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When I first went into this book, I was unsure what to expect. The house felt eerie, spooky and like it had a life of its own. It had this mystery about it, and it was very slow to reveal itself. For me, the pacing was to slow and repetitive.
The constant push and pull of the Mayor wanting to get his hands on the Estate and why, was perplexing in an interesting way, all the connections and history behind it, the layers and complexity was done well.
For me, the love between Elara and Silas, it was beautifully written, I just felt it was an addition to the plot, it didn't feel weaved into it.
I am not saying this book will not be others favorite book, I have given it 3 stars only because I did not click with it, it wasn't for me, I didn't get emotionally invested in it the way others might.
When I first went into this book, I was unsure what to expect. The house felt eerie, spooky and like it had a life of its own. It had this mystery about it, and it was very slow to reveal itself. For me, the pacing was to slow and repetitive.
The constant push and pull of the Mayor wanting to get his hands on the Estate and why, was perplexing in an interesting way, all the connections and history behind it, the layers and complexity was done well.
For me, the love between Elara and Silas, it was beautifully written, I just felt it was an addition to the plot, it didn't feel weaved into it.
I am not saying this book will not be others favorite book, I have given it 3 stars only because I did not click with it, it wasn't for me, I didn't get emotionally invested in it the way others might.
July 8, 2026
What first starts as a spooky old house experience, turns into a wholesome story about a home that saves lives. Overall, this book is well-written, complete with a rich backstory, and only a few issues with short, choppy sentences within the first few chapters.
The Garrow family is a group of seriously twisted villains with delusions of grandeur through a supernatural twist. Chilling!
Structurally, I would advise adding a few more moments of sexual tension between Elara and Silas towards the middle of the book, since, when they become intimate in the final third of the work, it’s not out of the blue or unexpected, but the transition into an intimate relationship is a bit jarring.
The Garrow family is a group of seriously twisted villains with delusions of grandeur through a supernatural twist. Chilling!
Structurally, I would advise adding a few more moments of sexual tension between Elara and Silas towards the middle of the book, since, when they become intimate in the final third of the work, it’s not out of the blue or unexpected, but the transition into an intimate relationship is a bit jarring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2026
ARC review. I enjoyed the eerie mysterious feel of this book, particularly at the beginning when the house almost felt like its own character. The author’s writing style elicited a gothic, mysterious feel very well with vivid descriptions. I did find the pace to be rather slow at times, but not enough to stop me reading. I found both main characters to be complex and compelling and enjoyed the romance that developed between them. The romantic subplot felt rather separate from the main story however, rather than integrated throughout it. Overall, I enjoyed this read and would recommend it.
July 3, 2026
I was hooked from the first page. The story was unexpected and enticing with a lot that was so completely different than most books I've read, which was a very welcome surprise, as it was done well. I literally read the book twice before posting this review. This book has everything, a compelling story, enigmatic characters and writing flow that just works. It delivers some historical fiction, romance, action, adventure, multiple struggles to be faced, serious emotional turmoil and leaves you wanting more. I sincerely hope the sequel is already in the works because I'm dying to read it.
June 15, 2026
Where the Devil Kneels: A Story of Devotion and Darkness by Sable L. Cross
This was SUCH a good read! I most definitely hope this turns into a series because I absolutely love this town/world the author has emerged us in. It gives big “a town that lives in the years gone by” vibes and I love the way they author weaves historical details throughout the story. The love between the two main characters is one for the books. I loved watching them fall into and rely on each other.
This was SUCH a good read! I most definitely hope this turns into a series because I absolutely love this town/world the author has emerged us in. It gives big “a town that lives in the years gone by” vibes and I love the way they author weaves historical details throughout the story. The love between the two main characters is one for the books. I loved watching them fall into and rely on each other.
June 30, 2026
What I liked about the book is the creepy atmosphere and the story never gets boring. I think anyone who loves dark romance stories, spooky vibes, or psychological thrillers would enjoy this book. One specific detail that made it stand out to me was how the romance felt super intense and dramatic while the actual town felt incredibly scary like the main characters were trapped in a nightmare they couldn't escape. Overall it’s a great book
July 3, 2026
This book is fantastic! Best I’ve read in a while! The characters are believable, the story is engaging and while it takes a bit to truly get to understand what’s going on that’s part of the amazing journey this author takes you on! I hope to read more from this author!
I wasn’t quite done reading when I first posted and now am a little disappointed. Two explicit chapters were completely unnecessary.
I wasn’t quite done reading when I first posted and now am a little disappointed. Two explicit chapters were completely unnecessary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2026
I received this as an ARC and I wasn't really sure what to expect going in, but I am very glad I was able to read this book. It was very interesting and engaging. I felt like the house in and of itself was just as much of a character as Elara Hale. There were times where I felt like things could have been worded a little differently to add clarity to the sentence, but overall this was a great read!
July 18, 2026
'Elara Hale thought inheriting a crumbling estate would mean starting over.
She didn’t expect to inherit its secrets.
Or the man living within its walls.'
The characters were very complex and compelling and complicated. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She didn’t expect to inherit its secrets.
Or the man living within its walls.'
The characters were very complex and compelling and complicated. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 8, 2026
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The mystery in the beginning really pulled me into the storyline and peaked my curiosity as to what was truly going on. Though I do feel like certain aspects became really repetitive in the later chapters. I wish the romance aspect could have played more of a role throughout the book. It was only focused on towards the end, but I very much enjoyed it!
July 17, 2026
This beautiful story takes us through a journey of ghosts that aren’t quite so ghostly, small town corruption, security, and romance in such an incredible way. We follow Elara as she untangles this web of deception and corruption, ending with a beautiful romance with a spicy end! Absolutely loved reading this!
July 23, 2026
I love a good dark romance and Sable Cross delivered with Where the Devil Kneels. Once I started reading this book I didn't want to put it down. The characters are well developed and they keep you turning pages. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2026
I was drawn to this book due to the mystery, romance and intrigue from the description. Anything paranormal interests me but I really couldn't get into it. It's worth a read though if a fan of Gothic novels.
July 19, 2026
В книгата има мистика, но на моменти сюжетната линия ми се размива с вътрешните диалози на главната героиня. Имаше вълнуващи моменти, но може би аз очаквах нещо повече.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2026
This was just amazing read! I couldnt put it down! The small town world building was amazing and the chemistry between the two main characters was so hot. But what surprised me most was how much i loved the dark and spooky aspects of this book. Cant wait to read more from this author!
July 1, 2026
I got this book as a Prerelease ARC and im super appreciative of it. This is an amazing book. It kept me intrigued. It kept me reading and I couldnt put it down. Amazing FMC.
July 19, 2026
This story does not disappoint. I was hooked from the beginning. I went on a roller-coaster ride with this one.Well written. The characters are captivating. Its spicy, thrilling and intense.
July 23, 2026
Absolutely kept me on the edge of my seat the entire ride through and I personally thought how the romance unfolded had a really natural vibe to it as you witness it just happen!
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