Darling Descent

by Leighann Hart

A university psychiatrist. A curious undergrad. A dangerous attraction.

When Kenna O’Callaghan visits Dr. Dayton Merino to propose a mentorship, she freezes. There’s something familiar about him. His scars. His black eyes and hollow stare. She’s seen him once before, emerging from the confessional ahead of Christmas Eve Mass.

Kenna soon learns he had plenty to confess when an acquaintance divulges a dark truth and in a quest for answers she finds herself tangled in a web of his strange behavior with former patients.

But in the heat of her secret investigation she fails to see she’s his next subject.

As the evidence against Dr. Merino grows, so too do her illicit feelings and she faces the impossible choice of loving him or destroying him.

Genres: Dark Romance, Contemporary

ebook

Published May 7, 2022

About the author

Leighann Hart is the author of the Rosenfeld duet and the Confessional trilogy. She is a huge mental health advocate and this sometimes—okay, oftentimes—bleeds into her love stories.

She consumes heinous amounts of espresso and pays tithe daily to the New York Times Spelling Bee. Her biggest regret is that she probably will not meet Rick Moranis before he dies.

Leighann lives with her husband, daughter, and Sugar the Shetland Sheepdog in a convection oven—er, Georgia.

Her next novel, Doll Parts, is due out in 2025.

Reviews

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/28/2022)! 🎁

[TaMaRaO_o · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Loving her felt like stepping off a cliff—terrifying, inevitable...،
and the only way he’d ever feel alive.”

[Caley Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

[I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for a review through BookSprout]

It takes a talented writer to pull off a novel so romantic yet so unsettling -possibly the most disturbing novel I've read in a while -but Hart has done it well here. The story has an intriguing start with Dayton's dark secrets slowly being revealed to both Kenna and the reader as she begins her mentorship with him and soon finds herself in over her head. Dayton's so loathsome yet not entirely without pity and Kenna is a great shrewd and witty protagonist, though her naive optimism causes her to make some questionable decisions at times. I had no idea if I was reading a dark and problematic romance or an emotionally-driven psychological thriller as I kept turning the pages to find out what would happen next. I was never really certain about what either Dayton's or Kenna's intentions were or which one of them were pulling the strings behind their interactions and coincidental meetings. Hart's poetic, descriptive prose really shines through here just as it did in her previous novel and I can personally attest that the psychiatric elements of this story feel authentic as a bonus. I enjoyed reading this book and I think that readers who enjoyed The Dying Animal, Fifty Shades of Grey, Gone Girl, After, Hannibal, and/or Snape/Hermione fanfiction will as well.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darling Descent written by Leighann Hart was a delightful read. I’ve had the pleasure of being a beta reader for the author twice now with her Rosenfeld duet (both of which I have loved), and I have seen snippets and teases of Darking Descent as she was plotting for it. Needless to say, I’ve been itching to read this for a while, had high expectations, and my expectations were thoroughly and pleasantly met. Hart’s writing style is incredibly witty, and she has a talent in making me feel as though these characters are complex human beings, because both are, well, pretty complex.

Dayton Merino, the male lead, a university psychiatrist and a keeper of dark secrets. A man you love to hate and hate to love. He’s got a air of charm to him that’s dangerous, that you should be wary of. Equal parts swoon worthy and asshole. Dark eyes that match a dark soul. Kenna O’Callaghan, the leading lady, undergrad and Dr. Merino’s mentee. A strong willed character whose bright mind and curiosity leads her down a dangerous path of why Dayton is the way he is, his secrets. But the more she learns about him, the closer she gets, the attraction grows and becomes more confusing.

Hart did a great job at weaving in suspense throughout the story, leaving you wondering what was about to happen, did he really mean what he said, and the things Kenna comes to know about her brooding mentor.

Incredibly thrilling, incredibly sexy, left me waiting for book two. Would I recommend this to anyone? Yes. Especially if you love age gaps and strong, leading ladies and dark romance with a touch of spicy thrills.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was such a darling read! while lurking through the bookshelves of some groups, I came across Darling Descent , recommended by the author herself. the summary is enticing, but the writing itself draws you in completely. you'll forget you're even reading until you're at the end. I simply could not put this one down and finished it in about a day. both characters were written so wonderfully. Kenna is a rather relatable character, and Dr. Merino is someone you cannot help but be enchanted with. the writing style in this book is rather poetic and quite easy to fall in love with. the incorporation of psychology and religion was a delight to read (as someone fascinated by the human mind and faith). I was honestly in a bit of a funk before reading Darling Descent, unable to find the perfect book to read. the author's third novel (following the short series Rosenfeld Duet) quickly became one of my favourite books. days later, I wish there were more books akin to this one. the author paints a beautiful world so effortlessly. though the story is left on a cliffhanger, it is rather satisfactory and leaves readers excited for the sequel (which is arriving soon!). november 30th is a day I cannot wait for. all stars are warranted, but I wish I could give more. Darling Descent was published in 2022 and is my favourite book this year.

[cleo ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing blew me away. Wow. Just wow. The prose is so beautiful and there were so many chillingly gorgeously-written motifs - addiction, confession, delirium, religion - turns of phrase, etc etc. Getting to follow the story through both Kenna and Dr Merino's POVs, which alternate within each chapter, adds a depth to the already highly thought-provoking story weaved as we get to explore around within the heads and psyches of both characters as they navigate the web of their relationship dynamics. It's incredibly morally grey, and I found myself vacillating in opinion all throughout, and even now, I know it's a story that won't leave me easily. And again, I'm in love with the super gorgeous prose.

This is a book I'd recommend to all my friends, and easily makes its way into my top books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chloe Rayn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was sooo good. It wasn’t a happy ending because it ended on a cliff hanger and now I need the sequel like yesterday. This story is masterful in the world building and the character development. The romance scenes are more than enough and I truly recommend giving this a try! Such an excellent novel by an even better author!.

[Courtney Corboy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This page-turner is full of wit, worldbuilding, and darkness. I don't know where my original review went, but we are submitting this again. These characters draw you in like a moth to a flame. I was certain I was watching a movie because I could see everything clearly. The ending has you wanting more.

[Nicci · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tale of two halves for me. I loved the way the story developed with intrigue, darkness, and in some places, it's quite chilling - I was gripped at first as Kenna unravels secrets about her mentor Dr Merino. However, towards the end, it lost me a little, and I wanted to throw my Kindle out of the window - I am sure that was entirely intended, but just didn't quite do it for me.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Darling Descent by Leighann Hart is a good, and enjoyable age gap dark forbidden romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! It's a really well written book!
I've gave questioned my morals through the whole book 😂
That's what I needed lately! A good slow burn, with really questionable anti heroes and brave intelligent heroines who still belive in them.
I can't wait for what comes next!
Good job Ms Hart! 👏

[Ramia · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say i INHALED this book 😩
Absolutely loved it
Cant wait for the next book

[LaNona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah, I love Hart’s way of telling the story and really going above and beyond when delivering a dark twisty romance. Definitely be ready to jump into the next book when you pick this one up!!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Couldn't put it down. The dread and desire are truly palpable and the vibes are immaculate.

[A.M.F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised by how much this book captivated me, I devoured it in one sitting. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat, not only is it a forbidden romance but also somewhat of a thriller. The author did a fantastic job of keeping the reader in constant suspense and second guessing what will happen next. Really loved her writing style, made me feel I was in the room with these complex characters.
Dayton a.k.a. Dr. Merino is quite the character, he will have you falling for him one second and then leave you completely off balance and leery the next, he can be borderline creepy stalker. Kenna is our leading lady, she's a strong curious young lady, tenacious. I found her character interesting...she too is quite a complex character. The shocking information she finds out about Dayton from her peers keeps her smart and at arms length from him, but the more time she spends with him, she discovers things about him that no one else knows but her and she is conflicted in her feelings toward him.

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for the sequel, I want to see where these characters go and find out more about why Dayton is the way he is. 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves a good suspense filled romance. Great read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shamika Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could share a play by play of how this book made me feel whilst reading it. Initially, there is mystery shrouded on the character with darkness surrounding him at mass. Strange place for him to be and that doesn't escape Kenna's notice.

A professor at her school, Kenna is adamant that he must be her mentor, not knowing she is falling right into his seedy little traps. That was his plan all along, and he will take what he wants.

I hardly ever read dark romances, they're just not my thing. However, this one was written with such eloquence and feeling that I tore through the pages, desperate for more. And Hart delivered. With every word and every paragraph, the tortured souls interposed and their relationship neared a precipice. I held my breath too many times to count. I hated Dr. Merino too many times to count, I wanted Kenna to hate him too, but understanding everything beneath the surface was so tantalizing. I remember the audible gasps, the physical cringes and the widened eyes and I still couldn't get enough.

With a book that reads like academia with enough twists and turns to keep you salivating for more, Hart delivered a story of passion and grace and I'm ravenous for the second book!

[Megan Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of my favorite romance books leaving you guessing whether or not they’re actually romance until the very end. (It takes guts for an author to leave the whole freaking genre ambiguous. I’m looking at you, Colleen Hoover.) Leighann Hart’s books leave you guessing after the end, kind of like a Choose Your Own Adventure love story that will leave you second-guessing everything you just read. Not only “Should I be rooting for these characters to end up together?” but “Are these characters the heroes or the villains?”

The questions don’t matter much while you’re reading. You’ll be too busy trying to figure out what’s going to happen next. You’ll also be way too invested in the characters. Hating them, loving them: either way, it’s really fun watching them make decisions that would destroy lesser mortals. Lush scenery (that never detracts from the plot), beautiful prose paired with lines that come out of nowhere and cut you (“Kenna was more than a notch on his bedpost. She was the fucking frame.”) and lusciously dark psychology make this book—the first in a cliffhanger trilogy—a can’t miss.

[Beth Billings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!


Kenna is looking for a mentor she can't travel far so is stuck on campus. The dark Dr. Dayton Merino the university psychiatrist, who seems very familiar to Kenna but he's hiding something and she is determined to find out who's hiding behind the mask.


This is the first book in the confessional series. This story is completely captivating and I thoroughly enjoyed the constant suspense and tension between both of the main characters. I was a little shocked by the last confession by Dayton I don't want to give too much away as you will find out when you read it.


This is a very intense storyline with a lot of action, I want to say, but not always physical, mental would possibly be more accurate with them both playing games with each other.


I sincerely enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.


** same worded review will appear elsewhere **



* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

[Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a well written thriller this was! From the start you are drawn into a story and the story continues in Dr D's office.

Kenna applies for an internship with psychiatrist Dayton Merino to complete her final part of college. He rejects her.
The book is described from both main characters so it soon becomes clear that he doesn't want to let her go at all but manipulates her into a situation where he gets the upper hand in the relationship with Kenna. His behavior, his lyrics, everything is aimed at drawing Kenna in and getting a sexual relationship.

Kenna is warned several times about how Dayton is. She herself notices paranoid thoughts around him; he would stalk her and she weighs every word he says as well as what she says.
Slowly Kenna discovers his dark secrets. Slowly she realizes that she has feelings for him. Slowly they are heading towards an end. And what an ending. Or is it a start?

Highly recommended for people who like psychological thrillers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle (Chelle's Book Ramblings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you are a fan of Dark Romance like me, it can be hard to find the right one that gives you the "keep you on the edge of your seat and can't put it down" feel.

This book did that with spades.

It's the perfect blend between a dark romance and a psychological thriller.

The male character is the exact kind of ambiguous lead that I love to hate. He is secretive, manipulative, sexy as hell and you'll be questioning everything he says and does but will fall under his spell regardless. Just like our main lady, the attraction is built to perfection. It is a palpable thing.

Our female protagonist was also very well developed. I love her wit and spunk. No shrinking violet here, even if I still found some of her decisions annoying, but they worked to further the plot.

This is a book that any Dark Romance reader will love. It has all the elements to keep it a gripping story that will keep you guessing and I can't wait to read the next one.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complex and Intriguing

This book confounded me the whole way through and ended with me feeling puzzled, but unlike with other books that have left me with questions, this one kept me glued to the pages and on the edge of my seat the whole way through!

Will they? Won't they? Is he manipulative, a sociopath, depressed, guilt ridden? Is she gullible, using him as a case study, does she report him? These are all questions I honestly didn't know the answer to for most of the book, if at all and it meant I was enthralled!

I've read a lot of predictable dark romance and this was the opposite. Complex characters and a story that is both beautiful and disturbing.

After finishing the book I can't tell you if I loved it or hated it, maybe both. But I have also never read a book faster or been more enamoured.

Disclaimer: I received this free from the author for an honest review

[bariatricbookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excuse me ma’am, that ending had me actually watch to toss my kindle out the window. I really don’t think I have words. But let me try!

I absolutely inhaled this book. Her writing and vocabulary throughout the book is so vivid and thought provoking that it felt like I was living as a fly on the wall. I loved it swapping from both characters so we could see more in Daytons mind.

I received book two as an advance reader copy, but wanted to read book one before, and now I’m so excited to start book two…maybe even just not sleep all night!

[audiobook_chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kenna approaches Dr Merino to ask if she can intern for him but he flat out refuses so she takes her grievance up with the Dean who makes Merino give her the internship . Little does Kenna know but she played right into Merino’s hand however Kenna decides to dig into him and starts to finds out things about him and the deeper she digs the more she finds out . Although I found the book slow to start I did enjoy it I presume it’s a stand alone but the ending had me wondering if there’s more to come from Dayton & Kenna.

[Kendall Rubel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenna and Dayton.. you get to feel this driven feeling of a relationship is boiling out from inside both. I can't wait to continue their story and fall deeper in themself and figure out what is going on for both of them. we know a little about them but I want to figure out where the cliffhanger ends and go from there of what direction the author is going to take us. Overall, enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheyenne (moumantai.bookish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The slow burn suspense within this story was wonderful but Leighann had such an incredible way of writing details— that’s really what stole the show for me. They were so unique, being able to describe so much in fewer words than expected. All I can say is that I’m obsessed with them and I’m very excited for their story to continue.

Kenna is a strong-willed heroine, determined to find out the truth about her mentor and Dayton is desperate, thinking she might be his salvation. They both play their own games, trying to get the upper hand and manipulate each other but the lines begin to blur, increasing their obsessions.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drawn right into this story from the first chapter, what a great read this was. Had all the elements i look for in a read, each one kept me page turning until the end. Not sure who's game is the strongest in this read, Kenna or Dayton. Both have secrets, both trying to break the other and make them submit. Can't wait to read the next book to see what happens.

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting and the writing style was refreshingly different. But I have to admit, I could not see the attraction between them. Dayton did nothing for me..He was aloof and the history with the women in his life was icky at best and down right criminal at times. I never could understand why Kenna was drawn to him like she was.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the start. I couldn’t put it down and devoured it in one sitting. I don’t usually like psychological thrillers, but this one was a winner. Definitely will be reading other books by this author!!

[Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hard to know how to rate this

The book for its content was well written. Who is messing with who is difficult to guess. I think it's great if you like a lot of detail and thought into human psyche decisions.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dayton & Kenna had an intriguing read. I got a copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my review.