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The Astor Trilogy #1
Shallow Cuts: Book One of the Astor Trilogy
Not yet published
Expected 13 Oct 26Ten years ago, police shot Rudy Lussier dead in his house along the St. Johns River near Astor, Florida.
Before the murders, he was a craftsman in the BDSM scene: a Dom whose abduction fantasies drew women from across Florida to be taken by him. Two of them were later found in pieces. Investigators believed there may have been as many as twenty-two victims.
Tara has read every book about him, watched every documentary, and spent years pretending she was fascinated by the case instead of the man.
So when she talks Billy, her boyfriend of three years, into booking the newly reopened Lussier house instead of the tropical getaway they’d planned, she calls it curiosity.
The listing even comes with Rudy’s playroom still intact.
Billy agrees, because Billy has always loved her better than he understands her.
Neither of them has ever put words to what Tara wants. Not even Tara.
But Rudy notices.
It starts with dreams that feel like memories, except they aren’t hers—another woman’s hands, another woman’s turn with a man who knew what she wanted before she did. Then something inside the dreams starts answering.
A voice. An appetite. No body Tara can touch.
Billy can feel her slipping away and starts trying to understand what she never knew how to ask for. Tara keeps telling herself it’s only the house. Only dreams. Only curiosity.
But Rudy has had ten years alone with his hunger, and someone has finally come close enough to hear him.
SHALLOW CUTS is Book One of the Astor Trilogy—a slow-burn, high-heat, filthy, deeply unwell love story about obsession, consent, and the difference between being loved and being understood.
This is an explicit dark paranormal romance intended for adult readers. For a complete list of content warnings, visit the V.E. Lucius author website. Read them first. This one earns them.
Before the murders, he was a craftsman in the BDSM scene: a Dom whose abduction fantasies drew women from across Florida to be taken by him. Two of them were later found in pieces. Investigators believed there may have been as many as twenty-two victims.
Tara has read every book about him, watched every documentary, and spent years pretending she was fascinated by the case instead of the man.
So when she talks Billy, her boyfriend of three years, into booking the newly reopened Lussier house instead of the tropical getaway they’d planned, she calls it curiosity.
The listing even comes with Rudy’s playroom still intact.
Billy agrees, because Billy has always loved her better than he understands her.
Neither of them has ever put words to what Tara wants. Not even Tara.
But Rudy notices.
It starts with dreams that feel like memories, except they aren’t hers—another woman’s hands, another woman’s turn with a man who knew what she wanted before she did. Then something inside the dreams starts answering.
A voice. An appetite. No body Tara can touch.
Billy can feel her slipping away and starts trying to understand what she never knew how to ask for. Tara keeps telling herself it’s only the house. Only dreams. Only curiosity.
But Rudy has had ten years alone with his hunger, and someone has finally come close enough to hear him.
SHALLOW CUTS is Book One of the Astor Trilogy—a slow-burn, high-heat, filthy, deeply unwell love story about obsession, consent, and the difference between being loved and being understood.
This is an explicit dark paranormal romance intended for adult readers. For a complete list of content warnings, visit the V.E. Lucius author website. Read them first. This one earns them.
- GenresDark
587 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 25, 2026
Okay… this one pulled me ALL the way in. 👀
Shallow Cuts didn’t just feel like a story I was reading, it made me feel like I was part of it. The characters felt like people I actually knew, and the situations they found themselves in had me constantly wondering, What would I do if I were in their shoes?!
Tara has been with her boyfriend for a long time. She loves murder mysteries, like, really loves them and he has absolutely no idea just how deep that fascination goes. 🔪🖤
And her boyfriend? He’s kind. He’s sweet. He could honestly be the perfect man…
Except he’s just a little too vanilla. 😏
Tara realizes there’s something missing, and when the two of them embark on a staycation, what starts as an attempt to shake things up has the potential to change everything about their lives.
And that’s about ALL I’m saying because this is one of those books where you need to experience everything as it happens. 😂 I was completely hooked from beginning to end, and there were so many moments where I genuinely had no idea where this story was taking me.
If you love spice 🌶️, thriller vibes 🔪, paranormal elements 👻, complicated relationships, and stories that make you question what YOU would do, definitely add Shallow Cuts to your TBR.
Five stars from me, and considering this is only Book 1 of The Astor Trilogy… I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT. 🖤
Thank you for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew this was going to be a page turner only 5% in. I absolutely devoured this book. You do not just read it, you experience it as if you are a part of the story. The descriptions immersed me further in. The FMC Tara is fun loving but missing something in her relationship with Billy. Her love of true crime takes her on a journey she could never have imagined.
Just when I thought I knew where the story was taking me, it took me somewhere else. This author has very cleverly written about the relationships and had me longing to know more through the entire book.
I'll admit this is my first ARC read and a hard book to review because of the potential for spoilers for me anyway. It is a must read especially for the paranormal aspect, so it must be read not knowing going into it. I couldn't put this book down and can't wait for book two. Shallow Cuts is a story that transcends. If I could give it more stars, I would.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC!
Just when I thought I knew where the story was taking me, it took me somewhere else. This author has very cleverly written about the relationships and had me longing to know more through the entire book.
I'll admit this is my first ARC read and a hard book to review because of the potential for spoilers for me anyway. It is a must read especially for the paranormal aspect, so it must be read not knowing going into it. I couldn't put this book down and can't wait for book two. Shallow Cuts is a story that transcends. If I could give it more stars, I would.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC!
August 29, 2026
I went into Shallow Cuts wondering just how dark this book was actually going to get—and by the end, I was emotionally wrecked in the absolute best way.
The beginning had me questioning the direction a little. Tara is in a relationship that, on the surface, is everything it should be… except it isn’t what she needs. She has a serious true-crime obsession, and when she gets the opportunity to stay in a house connected to a notorious true-crime case, her curiosity gets the better of her.
And then things get VERY interesting.
Rudy absolutely stole my heart.
What initially looks like a story about a monster, turned into something much more complicated and heartbreaking.
And yes—the spice is VERY much there. 🥵
Once this book gets going, it does not hold back. The BDSM elements are dark, intense, and unapologetic, and there are some scenes that had me staring at my phone like… okay, WE’RE GOING THERE. 😂
But what surprised me most was how emotional the story became. Beneath the darkness, the kink, the true-crime mystery, and the supernatural elements is a love story about being understood completely by another person.
There were moments where I genuinely didn’t know what was going to happen next, and by the end I was sitting there needing time to emotionally recover.
Shallow Cuts was darker, stranger, spicier, and ultimately much more emotional than I expected.
If you like dark romance with paranormal elements, true crime, complicated characters, BDSM, and a love story that is a bit unconventional and a whole lot consuming… put this one on your list. 🖤
ARC review — thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an early copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
The beginning had me questioning the direction a little. Tara is in a relationship that, on the surface, is everything it should be… except it isn’t what she needs. She has a serious true-crime obsession, and when she gets the opportunity to stay in a house connected to a notorious true-crime case, her curiosity gets the better of her.
And then things get VERY interesting.
Rudy absolutely stole my heart.
What initially looks like a story about a monster, turned into something much more complicated and heartbreaking.
And yes—the spice is VERY much there. 🥵
Once this book gets going, it does not hold back. The BDSM elements are dark, intense, and unapologetic, and there are some scenes that had me staring at my phone like… okay, WE’RE GOING THERE. 😂
But what surprised me most was how emotional the story became. Beneath the darkness, the kink, the true-crime mystery, and the supernatural elements is a love story about being understood completely by another person.
There were moments where I genuinely didn’t know what was going to happen next, and by the end I was sitting there needing time to emotionally recover.
Shallow Cuts was darker, stranger, spicier, and ultimately much more emotional than I expected.
If you like dark romance with paranormal elements, true crime, complicated characters, BDSM, and a love story that is a bit unconventional and a whole lot consuming… put this one on your list. 🖤
ARC review — thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an early copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
Read
September 1, 2026This book was absolutely amazing held my interest. And had me in from the start. Absolutely great writing by the author. I fully recommend this book if you like dark romance you'll love this book. I'm hooked on the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shallow Cuts is one of those books that is difficult to neatly categorize, and I think that’s part of what made it such an interesting read. It blends dark romance, psychological suspense, paranormal elements, true-crime obsession, and some genuinely dark and twisted moments into a story that kept me curious about where it was going.
I was especially impressed by the atmosphere. The house, the history surrounding it, and the mystery of what really happened there created an unsettling backdrop that worked really well with the story. There is a constant feeling that there is something just beneath the surface, and I enjoyed watching that unfold.
The spice was also a definite highlight for me. The intimate scenes are very well written and fit the darker tone of the story, rather than feeling like they were simply added for shock value. There are some particularly memorable moments that are deliciously vicious and will probably stick with me for a while.
One of my favorite aspects was the way Rudy/Cutter's character developed. The more we learn about him, the more complicated he becomes, and I really enjoyed seeing the distinction between the persona the world knew and the man underneath it. The story does a good job of making you question how much of the story you've been told is actually the whole story.
My biggest struggle was Tara. I found her difficult to connect with at times, particularly because so much of what she wanted from the people around her wasn't communicated clearly. She often seemed to expect others to understand parts of her that she had deliberately kept hidden, and that sometimes made her come across as selfish or self-involved rather than simply misunderstood. I could understand where her desires and frustrations were coming from, but I didn't always agree with the way she handled them.
I also found that some of the paranormal elements and certain plot developments came together a little too easily for me. There were moments where I wanted the characters to have to work through an obstacle or consequence a little more before the story moved forward.
That said, I genuinely enjoyed the story. It was dark, sexy, strange, and definitely memorable—which is a pretty good combination.
For a first pub
Shallow Cuts shows a lot of promise. I think V.E. Lucious has created a fascinating premise and a memorable cast of characters, and I'm definitely interested in seeing what the next book brings
I was especially impressed by the atmosphere. The house, the history surrounding it, and the mystery of what really happened there created an unsettling backdrop that worked really well with the story. There is a constant feeling that there is something just beneath the surface, and I enjoyed watching that unfold.
The spice was also a definite highlight for me. The intimate scenes are very well written and fit the darker tone of the story, rather than feeling like they were simply added for shock value. There are some particularly memorable moments that are deliciously vicious and will probably stick with me for a while.
One of my favorite aspects was the way Rudy/Cutter's character developed. The more we learn about him, the more complicated he becomes, and I really enjoyed seeing the distinction between the persona the world knew and the man underneath it. The story does a good job of making you question how much of the story you've been told is actually the whole story.
My biggest struggle was Tara. I found her difficult to connect with at times, particularly because so much of what she wanted from the people around her wasn't communicated clearly. She often seemed to expect others to understand parts of her that she had deliberately kept hidden, and that sometimes made her come across as selfish or self-involved rather than simply misunderstood. I could understand where her desires and frustrations were coming from, but I didn't always agree with the way she handled them.
I also found that some of the paranormal elements and certain plot developments came together a little too easily for me. There were moments where I wanted the characters to have to work through an obstacle or consequence a little more before the story moved forward.
That said, I genuinely enjoyed the story. It was dark, sexy, strange, and definitely memorable—which is a pretty good combination.
For a first pub
Shallow Cuts shows a lot of promise. I think V.E. Lucious has created a fascinating premise and a memorable cast of characters, and I'm definitely interested in seeing what the next book brings
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow what to even say about this book. I came across this Author on tiktok and am SO glad that I did…
Overall, I have so many questions left that have me sitting on the edge of my chair waiting for book two. And the struggle is that book 1 isnt even released yet so I will have a lengthy amount of time to wait.
This book had me all in my feels.
I suppose we will start with characters:
Rudy— I was scandalized (not really) by some of the things that Rudy was doing to his subs, and so amazed by the care he would give each after. I loved the growth that we saw from him and I will leave it there
Billy- Probably one of my favorites. I feel like many of us know a Billy. He means good but at the same time hes a red flag. I will leave it at that as I do not want to spoil much but I do love that overall he does see the error of his ways and also has a lot of growth throughout the book
Tara- oh Tara. I loved her but at the same time I didnt love her. I liked the way her mind was thinking with some of the things. I loved her curiosity and how she was so open to exploring things but also her love for Billy even though she knew it maybe was not what she wanted for her life. I did not like how she treated Billy at times but at the same time she was just doing what she felt was best and how can I really blame her for that?
I really liked the way that the author organized the story line. The back and forth was just chef’s kiss! I felt like it was balanced in such a nice way. We didnt spend too much time in the present and too little in the past (or dreams). I am very impressed with the balance of the BDSM and just hot deep it cut without cutting too far. There were many parts where my jaw was wide open and on the floor. But it was all in the best way possible.
This is one that I would, and have been, recommending to friends who I know have similar tastes in books!
I am going to have to leave my review at that and tell you you will just need to read this for yourself
Overall, I have so many questions left that have me sitting on the edge of my chair waiting for book two. And the struggle is that book 1 isnt even released yet so I will have a lengthy amount of time to wait.
This book had me all in my feels.
I suppose we will start with characters:
Rudy— I was scandalized (not really) by some of the things that Rudy was doing to his subs, and so amazed by the care he would give each after. I loved the growth that we saw from him and I will leave it there
Billy- Probably one of my favorites. I feel like many of us know a Billy. He means good but at the same time hes a red flag. I will leave it at that as I do not want to spoil much but I do love that overall he does see the error of his ways and also has a lot of growth throughout the book
Tara- oh Tara. I loved her but at the same time I didnt love her. I liked the way her mind was thinking with some of the things. I loved her curiosity and how she was so open to exploring things but also her love for Billy even though she knew it maybe was not what she wanted for her life. I did not like how she treated Billy at times but at the same time she was just doing what she felt was best and how can I really blame her for that?
I really liked the way that the author organized the story line. The back and forth was just chef’s kiss! I felt like it was balanced in such a nice way. We didnt spend too much time in the present and too little in the past (or dreams). I am very impressed with the balance of the BDSM and just hot deep it cut without cutting too far. There were many parts where my jaw was wide open and on the floor. But it was all in the best way possible.
This is one that I would, and have been, recommending to friends who I know have similar tastes in books!
I am going to have to leave my review at that and tell you you will just need to read this for yourself
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you are interested in maximum emotional impact and plot twists that genuinely leave you wondering WTF was that... then Shallow Cuts is a must read!
This book literally has it all. It is dark, it is twisty, it is romance, it is paranormal, it is emotional, and it is spicy! It is every true crime loving, dark romance bookish girls dream! Zade who? Josh what? Move over and make way for Cutter.
The characters are easy to connect to and as you are reading the story, it is like you are living right along with them. Tara is a true crime obsessed FMC and has been in a long term relationship with boyfriend Billy who is everything she should want and desire but is just a little too vanilla in the bedroom. She longs for more.
When a True Crime related house gets posted on VRBO, Tara knows she must go and see it in person and decides to book a vacation. Go on this journey with Tara as her obsession takes her through all the ups and downs of her vacation and as she discovers all about the history and what happens when you are obsessed with a serial killer.
I received a beta copy of Shallow Cuts and was able to provide feedback to the author after reading. VE Lucius was easy to communicate with and genuinely was interested in how the story hit the reader and took feedback very well. If you have a chance to be a beta or ARC reader for her in the future, I recommend doing so!
Thank you VE Lucius for taking me on this journey with you and I look forward to books 2 and 3!
This book literally has it all. It is dark, it is twisty, it is romance, it is paranormal, it is emotional, and it is spicy! It is every true crime loving, dark romance bookish girls dream! Zade who? Josh what? Move over and make way for Cutter.
The characters are easy to connect to and as you are reading the story, it is like you are living right along with them. Tara is a true crime obsessed FMC and has been in a long term relationship with boyfriend Billy who is everything she should want and desire but is just a little too vanilla in the bedroom. She longs for more.
When a True Crime related house gets posted on VRBO, Tara knows she must go and see it in person and decides to book a vacation. Go on this journey with Tara as her obsession takes her through all the ups and downs of her vacation and as she discovers all about the history and what happens when you are obsessed with a serial killer.
I received a beta copy of Shallow Cuts and was able to provide feedback to the author after reading. VE Lucius was easy to communicate with and genuinely was interested in how the story hit the reader and took feedback very well. If you have a chance to be a beta or ARC reader for her in the future, I recommend doing so!
Thank you VE Lucius for taking me on this journey with you and I look forward to books 2 and 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I freaking LOVVVVED Shallow Cuts. For not usually diving into the genre I have to admit she made it work in the book and seriously…she..made👏🏼it👏🏼workkkk👏🏼
I went into this expecting dark romance, but I was NOT expecting to get this emotionally attached. But seriously I have issues with how much of my emotions I actually attach to these fictional peeps.. It somehow had me laughing, nearly crying if not actually crying..stressing the hell out, and completely invested in where this was going and how it was going to play out.
At one point I envisioned what was going to happen like I do with movies and I was Hella wrong…
I also related to Tara more than I expected. Being in a very vanilla relationship while realizing what I actually crave is… definitely not quite so vanilla 😂 made some of her thoughts about relationships, boundaries, and figuring out what she wants hit a little closer to home.
And Cutter… yeah. I have feelings. 😅 oh so many feelings…🫶🏼
THE ENDING?! I’m not saying a WORD about why. But OMFG, it was SO GOOD.
And there are TWO MORE BOOKS?! I’m so freaking excited because I am absolutely not ready to be done with these characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Easily one of my favorite reads lately.
I went into this expecting dark romance, but I was NOT expecting to get this emotionally attached. But seriously I have issues with how much of my emotions I actually attach to these fictional peeps.. It somehow had me laughing, nearly crying if not actually crying..stressing the hell out, and completely invested in where this was going and how it was going to play out.
At one point I envisioned what was going to happen like I do with movies and I was Hella wrong…
I also related to Tara more than I expected. Being in a very vanilla relationship while realizing what I actually crave is… definitely not quite so vanilla 😂 made some of her thoughts about relationships, boundaries, and figuring out what she wants hit a little closer to home.
And Cutter… yeah. I have feelings. 😅 oh so many feelings…🫶🏼
THE ENDING?! I’m not saying a WORD about why. But OMFG, it was SO GOOD.
And there are TWO MORE BOOKS?! I’m so freaking excited because I am absolutely not ready to be done with these characters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Easily one of my favorite reads lately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shallow Cuts has stolen my dark romance heart and there's no hope of recovering it, but I'm fine with it! This story will introduce you to emotions you had no idea existed, it will have you questioning every pre-conceived notion about the world you have, and it will hands down, 100%, leave you wanting... *needing* more!
This story introduces us to Tara, a true crime enthusiast battling her inner dark side. With the perfect man, a charmed life, and her whole future ahead of her, she gives in to her curiosity and takes a rather unorthodox holiday with her love, Billy. What awaits them during their vacation, I was not emotionally ready for! Tara leads us through her journey of self-discovery, sexual exploration, choosing oneself, and inner empowerment, with a little help from the supernatural.
V.E. Lucius introduces "radical societal taboos" in this story, and pulls it off with accuracy, respect, empathy, positivity, and joy. This is the first dark romance I have had the privilege of reading that truly shows sex positivity. This story will always stay with me and be dear to my heart!
This story introduces us to Tara, a true crime enthusiast battling her inner dark side. With the perfect man, a charmed life, and her whole future ahead of her, she gives in to her curiosity and takes a rather unorthodox holiday with her love, Billy. What awaits them during their vacation, I was not emotionally ready for! Tara leads us through her journey of self-discovery, sexual exploration, choosing oneself, and inner empowerment, with a little help from the supernatural.
V.E. Lucius introduces "radical societal taboos" in this story, and pulls it off with accuracy, respect, empathy, positivity, and joy. This is the first dark romance I have had the privilege of reading that truly shows sex positivity. This story will always stay with me and be dear to my heart!
Review of advance copy
Shallow Cuts: Book One of the Astor Trilogy
I loved this book! It one that I will continue to read once the rest of the series comes out. I have to admit that this has so far been the darkest book I've read.
It starts off with Tara and Billy who are in a relationship. Tara loves true crime and murder. This right here is what caught my attention. I love true crime and murder mystery, so the feeling of connecting to this character hooked me. I could relate to Tara in many ways and honestly it kind of freaked me out.
Tara books a air B&B that used to be the home of a murder and they go there and stay. While there they both have dreams and things between Tara and Billy change.
I don't want to give anything away so you should read it!
I loved this book! It one that I will continue to read once the rest of the series comes out. I have to admit that this has so far been the darkest book I've read.
It starts off with Tara and Billy who are in a relationship. Tara loves true crime and murder. This right here is what caught my attention. I love true crime and murder mystery, so the feeling of connecting to this character hooked me. I could relate to Tara in many ways and honestly it kind of freaked me out.
Tara books a air B&B that used to be the home of a murder and they go there and stay. While there they both have dreams and things between Tara and Billy change.
I don't want to give anything away so you should read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
To say that I loved this book is an understatement, I devoured it.
Everyone involved is totally relatable that you don't know how you want the story to end and who you want to be together.
Tara is like any other woman, trying to connect with her partner and finding out that perhaps, just perhaps, her perfect partner is not so perfect. But then you have Billy that's trying not to be an ass about his opinions and wants to be The One for her that gets to be painful to read sometimes.
I said it before and I'll say it again, this book is so relatable simply with their relationship, the paranormal aspect of everything could be just their minds putting everything into perspective before things get permanent and still could work, and that's something not every book has.
The ending's still in my head, and I don't think is going to leave for a long time.
Everyone involved is totally relatable that you don't know how you want the story to end and who you want to be together.
Tara is like any other woman, trying to connect with her partner and finding out that perhaps, just perhaps, her perfect partner is not so perfect. But then you have Billy that's trying not to be an ass about his opinions and wants to be The One for her that gets to be painful to read sometimes.
I said it before and I'll say it again, this book is so relatable simply with their relationship, the paranormal aspect of everything could be just their minds putting everything into perspective before things get permanent and still could work, and that's something not every book has.
The ending's still in my head, and I don't think is going to leave for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy and let me tell you. I wish there was a group chat for this Arc because I am dying to talk to somebody about this book. This book had me in a choke hold. I laughed. I cried. I was mad. I was sad. I was happy and even excited (IYKYK) it literally gave me all the feels and I am so happy with the way it ended. I was terrified it was going to end on a cliffhanger which it did not and I Cannot wait to See what else happens in the next two books. I absolutely love the FMC and how she comes into herself and stops hiding. Both of the MMC's are sexy men but my favorite is Rudy. I have already told friends of mine that once this book drops it is a must read because in my opinion it is. I cannot hype this book up enough. It is that good. As always, make sure you check your trigger warnings with any and all dark romance books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
recieved as an advance readers copy and freely review
𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐂𝐔𝐓𝐒
By 𝚅.𝙴. 𝙻𝚄𝙲𝙸𝚄𝚂
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓶𝓮𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓼.
"𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒'𝓈 𝓂𝓎 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓋𝒶𝓈. ℬ𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑒𝓃𝒹 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈, 𝒾𝓉 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝓈𝒾𝑔𝓃𝒶𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒾𝓉."- ℛ𝓊𝒹𝓎
V.E. Lucius just wrecked my brain! He knows exactly how to weave a story that reaches straight into the reader's heart and stays. Shallow Cuts offers something thrilling, obscure and supernatural. The story will surely and completely consume you, and you just can't tear away from it. It is executed perfectly, and you can really feel how much he cares for her. It is the perfect mix of sweet, dangerous, and entertaining. The build-up and thirst of the second book is found and definitely up for the waiting. I highly recommend it!
𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐂𝐔𝐓𝐒
By 𝚅.𝙴. 𝙻𝚄𝙲𝙸𝚄𝚂
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓶𝓮𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓼.
"𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒'𝓈 𝓂𝓎 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓋𝒶𝓈. ℬ𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑒𝓃𝒹 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈, 𝒾𝓉 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝓈𝒾𝑔𝓃𝒶𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒾𝓉."- ℛ𝓊𝒹𝓎
V.E. Lucius just wrecked my brain! He knows exactly how to weave a story that reaches straight into the reader's heart and stays. Shallow Cuts offers something thrilling, obscure and supernatural. The story will surely and completely consume you, and you just can't tear away from it. It is executed perfectly, and you can really feel how much he cares for her. It is the perfect mix of sweet, dangerous, and entertaining. The build-up and thirst of the second book is found and definitely up for the waiting. I highly recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once I got into the story, I honestly just wanted to keep reading because I had to know what was going to happen next.
Tara and Billy’s relationship was interesting because Billy is a good guy, but there’s clearly something missing for Tara. I liked that part of the story because it felt realistic and made me understand why she was so drawn into everything that happened.
I loved the true crime and paranormal parts. There were so many times when I thought I knew where the story was going and then it completely surprised me. The darker parts and the spice definitely added to the story too.
What I wasn’t expecting was how emotional this book would get. There was a lot more to the story than I thought there would be, and some of the characters really stuck with me after I finished.
Tara and Billy’s relationship was interesting because Billy is a good guy, but there’s clearly something missing for Tara. I liked that part of the story because it felt realistic and made me understand why she was so drawn into everything that happened.
I loved the true crime and paranormal parts. There were so many times when I thought I knew where the story was going and then it completely surprised me. The darker parts and the spice definitely added to the story too.
What I wasn’t expecting was how emotional this book would get. There was a lot more to the story than I thought there would be, and some of the characters really stuck with me after I finished.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book just totally blew me away. You thought you knew what was going to happen next well that's not what did. Tara the girl with an obsession, Billy her Bf who is just plain and needs to spice up his life. The vacation she planned at the most talked about place on the web. This book has spice and will hook you from the first chapter. Ask yourself this what would you do in a situation like this?? The characters felt like you knew them. To find out more you definitely need to read it because it kept me engaged all the way through. This was an ARC Read and these are my own thoughts and words.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be chosen to ARC read this book and I cannot give it enough praise!! Cutter has easily made his way into my top 5 book boyfriends. It's a 4/5 spice in a 5 star read! The emotional rollercoaster I went through reading this book was insane, and it left me hanging on to the bitter end to find out just what was going to happen. Just when you think you can predict what's going to happen.... Your wrong. Absolutely cannot wait for Shallow Cuts to be released! I will absolutely be recommending it to anyone that loves dark romance with an MMC that will make your heart race in MANY different ways!!! ♥️♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Trigger warnings are there for a reason, read them.
I knew going into this book it was most likely going to be one of the books furthest from my comfort zone, but I was really intrigued by the synopsis & seeing how it played out. It did not disappoint. I wasn't sure where this story was leading me & found that I was captivated by the emotional & mental impact of Tara's actions & their widespread ramifications. The writing flowed well & the pace was good, no scenes felt rushed or details overlooked. I admit the ending wasn't what I expected & I've questions, which means I need to read book 2 to have them answered.
Trigger warnings are there for a reason, read them.
I knew going into this book it was most likely going to be one of the books furthest from my comfort zone, but I was really intrigued by the synopsis & seeing how it played out. It did not disappoint. I wasn't sure where this story was leading me & found that I was captivated by the emotional & mental impact of Tara's actions & their widespread ramifications. The writing flowed well & the pace was good, no scenes felt rushed or details overlooked. I admit the ending wasn't what I expected & I've questions, which means I need to read book 2 to have them answered.
Read
September 16, 2026I received an arc of this book. And this is literally the first book review I have ever written. I loved this book! It drew me in immediately and I did not want to put it down. I stopped reading it for about a week when I got close to the end because I didn't want to know what happened because I didn't want it to be over. I cannot wait for the rest of the series! I still have lots of unanswered questions but the ending of this book didn't leave me feeling unfulfilled or mad like some books do LOL
Review of advance copy received from Author
As my first official ARC, Shallow Cuts set the bar sky-high. Obsessed with true crime and the mysterious past of a BDSM Dom known only as "Cutter," Tara takes her obsession to the ultimate extreme by booking his custom-tailored Airbnb for a getaway with her fiancé.
But stepping into Cutter’s world transforms a simple holiday into a dangerously seductive voyage of self-discovery, revelation, and emotional fallout.
Equal parts suspenseful narrative and seductive romance (🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️), Shallow Cuts is an unique paranormal thriller that leaves you craving the next installment.
But stepping into Cutter’s world transforms a simple holiday into a dangerously seductive voyage of self-discovery, revelation, and emotional fallout.
Equal parts suspenseful narrative and seductive romance (🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️), Shallow Cuts is an unique paranormal thriller that leaves you craving the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read an advance copy!!!
Okay, where to even start with this book? It sucked me in from the very beginning. You get attached to the characters, the story and the ending. There are view points in this story that you probably haven’t seen before and make the book that much better. It’s like Beetle Juice met Romeo and Juliet! I am left with my jaw on the floor, trying to decide if I cry for one of the characters and then have questions I hope get answered later on!!!
Okay, where to even start with this book? It sucked me in from the very beginning. You get attached to the characters, the story and the ending. There are view points in this story that you probably haven’t seen before and make the book that much better. It’s like Beetle Juice met Romeo and Juliet! I am left with my jaw on the floor, trying to decide if I cry for one of the characters and then have questions I hope get answered later on!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book! It had a little more spice than I am used to, like a lot more 🥵.. But the story, the longing, it is so much more than just spice.. There is a real story underneath with real emotions. And that plot!
Really well written and very hard to put down. You don't just read this story, you experience it!
Thank you for letting me read this as your arc reader, I feel really lucky. @V.E. LUCIUS
Really well written and very hard to put down. You don't just read this story, you experience it!
Thank you for letting me read this as your arc reader, I feel really lucky. @V.E. LUCIUS
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me in a chokehold. It was very spicy and pretty dark. To me, it almost read more like a suspense or mystery and had me constantly trying to guess what was going to happen. I usually predict books pretty well, but this one surprised me. Some of the dialogue felt a little awkward at times, but it didn't take away from the story. SO WORTH THE READ. I keep thinking about Tara and Rudy and I CANNOT wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5 stars for this book!
Shallow Cuts had me hooked from the very beginning! The dark romance, tension, and chemistry kept me turning the pages, and I honestly didn’t want to put it down. The characters were intense, complicated, and just the right amount of unhinged. 😂🖤 I loved the darker vibe and all the twists that kept me guessing. Definitely a book that stays on your mind after you finish it. Highly recommend! 🖤📖
Shallow Cuts had me hooked from the very beginning! The dark romance, tension, and chemistry kept me turning the pages, and I honestly didn’t want to put it down. The characters were intense, complicated, and just the right amount of unhinged. 😂🖤 I loved the darker vibe and all the twists that kept me guessing. Definitely a book that stays on your mind after you finish it. Highly recommend! 🖤📖
September 8, 2026
This book was nothing I expected. The whole story, concept, and premise were so unique. I never thought “paranormal romance” would be for me, but this book definitely went beyond just “ghost sex”. It was so much more than that, exploring the difference between want and need, and that loving someone and understanding them don’t always coincide. Loved this story and can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Right from the beginning, I was into this book, the descriptions, and the way the story was written. You truly feel like you are a part of the experience. The supernatural elements went above and beyond and the spice really was amazing. This book was written so well if you’re a dark romance, reader truly do not miss out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I found myself wanting to keep reading because I needed to know what happened next. The characters, the tension, the emotional moments—it all came together so well. This was definitely one of those books that kept me turning the pages and left me wanting more when it ended.
If you love romance with plenty of chemistry, tension, and spice, definitely add this one to your TBR! ❤️🔥📖
If you love romance with plenty of chemistry, tension, and spice, definitely add this one to your TBR! ❤️🔥📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is unlike any dark romance/pitch black book I've read. It is gothic, dark, spooky/paranormal, and deliciously spicy and smutty and left me wanting so much more of their unconventional story. I couldn't put this book down and I can't stop thinking about Cutter!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though, I’m still currently reading this book but near complete. It has managed to capture my attention and hold it. Definitely won’t be looking at certain objects ever the same again 😏
It has been a honor to be a part of this books journey as an ARC reader.
It has been a honor to be a part of this books journey as an ARC reader.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is different kind of dark. The spice is explicit , the plot doesn't let you put the book down. The trigger warnings , just chek them before you dive in because you will be for a ride .
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I absolutely loved it. It pulls at your heart strings and makes you hot and horny. It is worth a read.
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