What do you think?
Rate this book
House of Skin #1
When Sinners Fall
Coming back to San Antonio wasn’t on my radar, but life happens.
Fresh from heartbreak, I have a brand new job to keep me occupied and I'm ready to start over. I’ll be dreaming up weddings for the rich and privileged, delivering their perfect day - their perfect fantasy.
Those fantasies look nothing like mine, though. Mine are mysterious and threatening and full of intensity.
All make believe, of course.
Until it isn’t.
Dante Cortez came at me like a dark saviour with sin on his lips.
Dangerous. Demanding. Deadly.
The boy I knew was long gone.
And I wasn’t ready for the man he'd become.
Note: The House Of Skin Series deals with themes some may be uncomfortable with. These are bad men who make no apologies for their particular trade.
Fresh from heartbreak, I have a brand new job to keep me occupied and I'm ready to start over. I’ll be dreaming up weddings for the rich and privileged, delivering their perfect day - their perfect fantasy.
Those fantasies look nothing like mine, though. Mine are mysterious and threatening and full of intensity.
All make believe, of course.
Until it isn’t.
Dante Cortez came at me like a dark saviour with sin on his lips.
Dangerous. Demanding. Deadly.
The boy I knew was long gone.
And I wasn’t ready for the man he'd become.
Note: The House Of Skin Series deals with themes some may be uncomfortable with. These are bad men who make no apologies for their particular trade.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2022
39 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte E. Hart
43 books330 followersHailing from the depths of the quiet British countryside, Charlotte likes nothing better than sinking into her characters dark and devious world's. Sometimes they're kinky, sometimes they're twisted, and sometimes they're a serious hold on tight situation, but her stories are always filled with romance and love in some form.
"Life is a torrent of differences, different needs and wants, and it doesn't always end that well. Yet we strive to find our countering balance, hopeful for a happy every after. "
Charlotte E Hart
Connect with Charlotte at:
Https://www.facebook.com/CharlotteEHa...
Https://www.instagram.com/CharlotteEH...
Https://www.twitter.com/CharlotteEHart1
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 25, 2022
The Cortez family and their skin trade was previously introduced in the prequel novella featuring Jackson Reed. Now we finally get to delve deeper into the family dynamics of this intriguing but morally skewed family. This one shares a world with the previous series by these authors but is also a complete standalone read.
It’s Packed full darkness and toxicity Dante Cortez or the Dragon as he is known to both friends and enemies is a definite make no apologies anti-hero and he for sure stays true to this particular persona throughout there is no big epiphany or dramatic awakening for Dante he just now has the added complication of acquiring someone who is especially precious to him that he now also needs to shield from the darkness and danger of his black murky world.
I really enjoyed this a lot it focuses on Wren and Dante who both reconnect when she moves back home to take on a job as a wedding planner. She alone remembers the boy she was friends with way back in school and though he may now have changed beyond all recognition she still sees faint glimmers of the boy she once knew. And cared for.
Wren finds herself equally attracted to the danger and absolute control that Dante represents just as much as she is also repelled by what she later discovers. As for Dante, it’s a balancing act of need-to-know information especially if he wants to keep his Wren bird oblivious to the finer details of his lifestyle. He needs that ultimate control over her to feel she is safe so when Wren challenges his authority, he doesn’t deal well at all.
This was obsessive and toxic and all sorts of unhealthy which I bloody adored. I love when the story focuses on an unapologetic villain that then stays one and these Cortez men are not in any way good that’s for sure Dante doesn’t claim to be anything but what he is. But now he’s running scared for his girl's safety because he knows just what he himself is capable of and the men that inhabit his world now are exactly like him.
Dante is obviously a bad man and does some extremely questionable things during the course of this but he’s also loyal to those he considers his own and Wren now firmly falls under his banner of protection making her off-limits to all. Wren though still has her blinkers purposely in place when it comes to Dante it’s obvious the girl is definitely not stupid though and it’s a definite choice of hers to remain this way and mostly ignorant for now.
I’m definitely excited to see where this series is heading and am now anticipating experiencing the rest of the family’s stories. This was an excellent start to the series that managed to expertly reel me in and then invest me in the unfolding narrative it's one I definitely recommend especially if you're partial to unconventional and darker romances where the villain wins his girl. Be aware this has definite triggers and don’t go into this expecting hearts and flowers as this is the exact opposite of all that. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of When sinners fall (House of Skin #1)
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
November 4, 2022
Holy Moly... God forbid me because I'm a sinner but I don't regret it. This book is a freaking 5 fully stars for me and Dante.. oh Dante...he's my favorite. I loved this story so much, it kept me glued up to the end. This goes to my To Be Reread Shelf.
November 15, 2022
Everything about the Cortez family is based on sin. Their world was not created by them alone. Thanks to the matriarch of the family and her choices, her children live within her evil realm.
“There isn’t anywhere around here to think about someone like her. Isn’t anywhere inside me that should be thinking about her, either. She was something more than this life I live.” -Dante (Dragon)
“I think about everything he’s done. His over the top, defensible actions are to keep me safe. I shouldn’t accept that, but there’s a side to me that’s attracted to it. It’s become a dark snake of desire wrapped around a part of my heart, and it likes the obsessive nature of his protectiveness.” -Wren
A book that stays with you embedded deep within. Excellent storytelling!
“There isn’t anywhere around here to think about someone like her. Isn’t anywhere inside me that should be thinking about her, either. She was something more than this life I live.” -Dante (Dragon)
“I think about everything he’s done. His over the top, defensible actions are to keep me safe. I shouldn’t accept that, but there’s a side to me that’s attracted to it. It’s become a dark snake of desire wrapped around a part of my heart, and it likes the obsessive nature of his protectiveness.” -Wren
A book that stays with you embedded deep within. Excellent storytelling!
December 23, 2022
We’re no strangers to dark, disturbing effed-up romances with their anti-heroes, but this is our first time with Hart De Lune, which is writing partners, Charlotte E. Hart & Rachel De Lune. We were advised to read Darker Shades first which is the prequel in their new House of Skin series, and we’re so glad we did. We can’t say we were prepared for the journey we embarked upon because it’s been a while since our last dip into the darkness but wow what a return we made with these Authors. This series is horrifically disturbing, confronting, and violent, so be aware that it has many triggers. It‘s compelling and ridiculously addictive too. It’s not easy to read at times but we couldn’t look away.
‘I’ve made my bed. I’m lying in it until I decide if I should get the hell out.’
Darker Shades tested us however we didn’t realise how much until we started When Sinners Fall. We knew nothing about this prequel so when we realised who, what and why we were literally left gobsmacked. It’s a true testament to an Author’s fabulous writing skills when their character development, depth of story, and showing but not telling means you can suspend all your real-life morals and beliefs and purely live in a fictional world that begins on the first page and ends on the last. The duo of Hart De Lune did just that!
‘This man has to trust me. He has to think I’m special – something to him – or he might not help us. He still might not, but at least this way I can say I tried everything to save us.’
In Darker Shades we meet Jackson Reed, head of a crime syndicate in London. Having ‘teamed’ up with the Cortez family; a family that’ll have even the most hardened dark romance reader balk at the ‘effed up-ness,’ Reed must prove his standing and professionalism in their dark world. We didn’t know much about Reed, but it was obvious he was no stranger to extreme violence and the seedier inhumane side of crime and debauchery. Until coming upon Naja, and her sister Mira, Reed had no scruples, much like the Cortez family. Well, that is unless it harms a hair on a loved one. This prequel serves as a dark sinister snapshot of what came before and sets up the series about the Cortez brothers.
‘I smiled from afar and kept myself well the fuck away from something I knew I would ruin. Might be the only good thing I’ve done with my life. And I sure as hell don’t need her back here, now I’m who I am because of that past.’
We meet Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez in Darker Shades and hand on heart we weren’t sure how we’d feel about him in When Sinners Fall. He certainly wasn’t on our Christmas card list when we began his story. But in this alternative dark romance, his story and character are riveting, and we could see how he got where he ended up. No excuses, and no remorse, Dante is who he is. Yet underneath, when he sees an important face from his past, the young lad within him recognises old feelings of compassion, loyalty, and friendship in the all-grown-up, Wren Campbell.
‘I liked that he needed me. I could see it in his eyes when they would pause for a fleeting moment and look right at me. He was lost, and I was his safe harbour, and it made anything else I heard about him or his family vanish…Maybe being in my world saved him from his.’
This woman has always had an important part of his heart and her reaction to him is visceral. Wren has no idea what she’s letting herself into, she thinks the worst but that doesn’t even come close. Their connection is undeniable, their chemistry, fiery. Their love is all-consuming and at times volatile. Theirs is not your bog-standard hearts and flowers love story, but it has passion and emotion.
‘He looks at me like he’d stand in front of the world to protect me – like he’d burn it to the ground or watch it suffer for daring to mess with me.’
Much has been said about anti-heroes, and a lot of discussions have taken place and still are on anti-heroes and their place on a scale of redemption and change. Sometimes redemption is found in the person they fall in love with, other times they take on a complete personality change.
‘I asked for all in. He delivered. And now I’m living with the consequences.’
For us -in our humble opinion- what draws us is the anti-heroes that still retain that ‘specific to them’ essence that makes them who they are. The unapologetic anti-heroes don’t go through a complete personality change. Rather, revelations of the past, growth through their own effed-up love story, and the journey they take are what we personally find the most thrilling in our dark romance. Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez and Wren Bird’s story of love is violently disturbing, but at its core, shrouded in darkness, is a story of friendship, compassion, acceptance, and love. We cannot wait for more in this series of interconnected standalones.
‘He’d die for me. It’s heady, and not in a safe or sane way, but in a completely toxic and possessive way. And maybe that’s just us. Maybe, right from the start, that’s what we were going to be.’
‘I’ve made my bed. I’m lying in it until I decide if I should get the hell out.’
Darker Shades tested us however we didn’t realise how much until we started When Sinners Fall. We knew nothing about this prequel so when we realised who, what and why we were literally left gobsmacked. It’s a true testament to an Author’s fabulous writing skills when their character development, depth of story, and showing but not telling means you can suspend all your real-life morals and beliefs and purely live in a fictional world that begins on the first page and ends on the last. The duo of Hart De Lune did just that!
‘This man has to trust me. He has to think I’m special – something to him – or he might not help us. He still might not, but at least this way I can say I tried everything to save us.’
In Darker Shades we meet Jackson Reed, head of a crime syndicate in London. Having ‘teamed’ up with the Cortez family; a family that’ll have even the most hardened dark romance reader balk at the ‘effed up-ness,’ Reed must prove his standing and professionalism in their dark world. We didn’t know much about Reed, but it was obvious he was no stranger to extreme violence and the seedier inhumane side of crime and debauchery. Until coming upon Naja, and her sister Mira, Reed had no scruples, much like the Cortez family. Well, that is unless it harms a hair on a loved one. This prequel serves as a dark sinister snapshot of what came before and sets up the series about the Cortez brothers.
‘I smiled from afar and kept myself well the fuck away from something I knew I would ruin. Might be the only good thing I’ve done with my life. And I sure as hell don’t need her back here, now I’m who I am because of that past.’
We meet Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez in Darker Shades and hand on heart we weren’t sure how we’d feel about him in When Sinners Fall. He certainly wasn’t on our Christmas card list when we began his story. But in this alternative dark romance, his story and character are riveting, and we could see how he got where he ended up. No excuses, and no remorse, Dante is who he is. Yet underneath, when he sees an important face from his past, the young lad within him recognises old feelings of compassion, loyalty, and friendship in the all-grown-up, Wren Campbell.
‘I liked that he needed me. I could see it in his eyes when they would pause for a fleeting moment and look right at me. He was lost, and I was his safe harbour, and it made anything else I heard about him or his family vanish…Maybe being in my world saved him from his.’
This woman has always had an important part of his heart and her reaction to him is visceral. Wren has no idea what she’s letting herself into, she thinks the worst but that doesn’t even come close. Their connection is undeniable, their chemistry, fiery. Their love is all-consuming and at times volatile. Theirs is not your bog-standard hearts and flowers love story, but it has passion and emotion.
‘He looks at me like he’d stand in front of the world to protect me – like he’d burn it to the ground or watch it suffer for daring to mess with me.’
Much has been said about anti-heroes, and a lot of discussions have taken place and still are on anti-heroes and their place on a scale of redemption and change. Sometimes redemption is found in the person they fall in love with, other times they take on a complete personality change.
‘I asked for all in. He delivered. And now I’m living with the consequences.’
For us -in our humble opinion- what draws us is the anti-heroes that still retain that ‘specific to them’ essence that makes them who they are. The unapologetic anti-heroes don’t go through a complete personality change. Rather, revelations of the past, growth through their own effed-up love story, and the journey they take are what we personally find the most thrilling in our dark romance. Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez and Wren Bird’s story of love is violently disturbing, but at its core, shrouded in darkness, is a story of friendship, compassion, acceptance, and love. We cannot wait for more in this series of interconnected standalones.
‘He’d die for me. It’s heady, and not in a safe or sane way, but in a completely toxic and possessive way. And maybe that’s just us. Maybe, right from the start, that’s what we were going to be.’
November 18, 2022
Reading a romance novel featuring an antihero is not the norm for me. So learning the rest of the series focused on the Cortez brothers made me curious to learn if they possessed the capacity to fall in love. When Sinners Fall features Dante Cortez and Wren Campbell.
Dante, known as the Dragon to both his enemies and family, is not a man one should think to cross. A man without a heart and who does several questionable things throughout the story. He makes no apologies and feels no remorse for his actions. He may be cold, evil, but one thing he is not is disloyal. In relation to his family, his loyalty knows no bounds. I was prepared not to like him after learning of the evil he’s capable of. However, after getting to know him through his experiences, my understanding of his nature changed. I liked him and sympathized with him but didn’t like his actions.
Wren certainly had the gumption needed to deal with a man like Dante. She challenged him every step of the way. Their interaction ranged between smooth and volatile, but Wren stood her ground with each scenario. I understood his need to protect her, but his response to her challenging him was overbearing and possessive. Wren’s attraction to danger made it easy for her to enter Dante’s world. She knew of his involvement in illegal activities, but she was oblivious to dirty and repulsive side of it. The discovery of the role her man played shocked her senses, but it never changed her feelings towards him.
Dante had a rough childhood, and the one person who helped him to survive those difficult times was Wren. The connection they shared then survived distance and years.
The story is well paced and engaging. I was curious to learn how it would unfold. I was especially interested in Wren’s reaction to learning that Dante the man was so different from Dante the boy.
Overall, When Sinners Fall is an intriguing story which readers who enjoy dark stories will appreciate.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Dante, known as the Dragon to both his enemies and family, is not a man one should think to cross. A man without a heart and who does several questionable things throughout the story. He makes no apologies and feels no remorse for his actions. He may be cold, evil, but one thing he is not is disloyal. In relation to his family, his loyalty knows no bounds. I was prepared not to like him after learning of the evil he’s capable of. However, after getting to know him through his experiences, my understanding of his nature changed. I liked him and sympathized with him but didn’t like his actions.
Wren certainly had the gumption needed to deal with a man like Dante. She challenged him every step of the way. Their interaction ranged between smooth and volatile, but Wren stood her ground with each scenario. I understood his need to protect her, but his response to her challenging him was overbearing and possessive. Wren’s attraction to danger made it easy for her to enter Dante’s world. She knew of his involvement in illegal activities, but she was oblivious to dirty and repulsive side of it. The discovery of the role her man played shocked her senses, but it never changed her feelings towards him.
Dante had a rough childhood, and the one person who helped him to survive those difficult times was Wren. The connection they shared then survived distance and years.
The story is well paced and engaging. I was curious to learn how it would unfold. I was especially interested in Wren’s reaction to learning that Dante the man was so different from Dante the boy.
Overall, When Sinners Fall is an intriguing story which readers who enjoy dark stories will appreciate.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Read
November 17, 2022Wasn't feeling this one, just seemed really confusing to me. But that's just my opinion.
November 4, 2022
Whether writing individually or together as Hart De Lune, Charlotte E. Hart and Rachel De Lune always pen the most incredible stories. I have read everything they have published, and have absolutely loved every word too. When Sinners Fall is outstanding. I absolutely loved getting to know Wren Campbell as equally as I did Dante and the rest of the Cortez family. Wren and Dante together are sensational. I couldn’t decide whether I wanted to devour this story in one sitting because I was desperate to learn what was going to happen,or savour every page because I didn’t want my time with the couple to ever end.
I’m sitting here desperate to discuss the storyline in detail; The interactions between Dante and Wren - which are written superbly. The strength that Wren possesses and how she challenges. Dante’s conflicting emotions, and the effects these have not only on him but the Cortez family too. There is so much I want to say but won’t because you need to go in blind and experience this story for yourself.
This story is dark. There are scenes that are not for the faint hearted and I loved every single one of them. The chemistry and connection between Dante and Wren are undeniable. The sex is as hot as Hades. I shouldn’t love Dante but I do, and I couldn’t have stopped handing over my heart to him if I tried. I absolutely loved that this narrative is written sharing both Dante and Wren’s POVs. Their meeting and connecting is huge due to the life changing consequences for them both, and I loved that I was able to read the thoughts of both characters and gain a greater understanding of what they were feeling.
I highly recommend When Sinners Fall to you to read. If you haven’t already, please read the novella Darker Shades which is not only a fabulous story in its own right but a fantastic introduction to The House of Skin series too. I honestly cannot wait for more of this series. I’m more than intrigued to discover what happens next.
5 must-read stars.
I’m sitting here desperate to discuss the storyline in detail; The interactions between Dante and Wren - which are written superbly. The strength that Wren possesses and how she challenges. Dante’s conflicting emotions, and the effects these have not only on him but the Cortez family too. There is so much I want to say but won’t because you need to go in blind and experience this story for yourself.
This story is dark. There are scenes that are not for the faint hearted and I loved every single one of them. The chemistry and connection between Dante and Wren are undeniable. The sex is as hot as Hades. I shouldn’t love Dante but I do, and I couldn’t have stopped handing over my heart to him if I tried. I absolutely loved that this narrative is written sharing both Dante and Wren’s POVs. Their meeting and connecting is huge due to the life changing consequences for them both, and I loved that I was able to read the thoughts of both characters and gain a greater understanding of what they were feeling.
I highly recommend When Sinners Fall to you to read. If you haven’t already, please read the novella Darker Shades which is not only a fabulous story in its own right but a fantastic introduction to The House of Skin series too. I honestly cannot wait for more of this series. I’m more than intrigued to discover what happens next.
5 must-read stars.
November 13, 2022
This book contains dark elements that some readers might find triggering. This man is brutal and unapologetic, please read at your own discretion.
Okay, now, I loved Wren Campbell from the beginning. She’s been hurt from her past relationship and just moved back home to start a new job. One day she catches a glimpse of eyes of someone that she thought she once knew from her childhood, but it doesn’t happen again, so she brushes it off. She has a dark fantasy side that may seem unreal to others, but that’s just who Wren is.
Dante (Dragon) made their separation happen early in life for a reason. Protection. He’s not the boy he was and now he deals in and with very dangerous people and nobody deserves to be brought into that life with him. Things happen, he’s in the right place at the right time, but for Wren it opens her eyes to many things.
Dante is a dangerous man and doesn’t apologize for the way he is. It’s his life and even though you don’t agree with the things that he does - you will grow to live him, promise.
This was this first book that I have read by these authors and I am definitely looking forward to getting more books about this family. I’m not sure who the next book will be about, but I’m hoping that it is Knox’s book.
Okay, now, I loved Wren Campbell from the beginning. She’s been hurt from her past relationship and just moved back home to start a new job. One day she catches a glimpse of eyes of someone that she thought she once knew from her childhood, but it doesn’t happen again, so she brushes it off. She has a dark fantasy side that may seem unreal to others, but that’s just who Wren is.
Dante (Dragon) made their separation happen early in life for a reason. Protection. He’s not the boy he was and now he deals in and with very dangerous people and nobody deserves to be brought into that life with him. Things happen, he’s in the right place at the right time, but for Wren it opens her eyes to many things.
Dante is a dangerous man and doesn’t apologize for the way he is. It’s his life and even though you don’t agree with the things that he does - you will grow to live him, promise.
This was this first book that I have read by these authors and I am definitely looking forward to getting more books about this family. I’m not sure who the next book will be about, but I’m hoping that it is Knox’s book.
November 16, 2022
Oh my, I love these two authors and I think they may have given us their baddest, most sinfully lethal anti-hero yet! And look at that cover....he's dark and dirty too!
Dark, dangerous, deadly and possessive, Dante "Dragon" Cortez is a very bad man and makes no apologies about it. Although his moral code was seriously twisted, he was 100% loyal and protective to those in his inner circle, but I admit I struggled to truly fall for him due to his brutally cold attitude towards certain aspects of the business (I recommend reading the prequel Darker Shades first to get the full picture, although its not essential). I did however love the way Dante stayed true to his character all the way through, he was who he was, take him or leave him, although leaving is probably not as easy as it sounds!
Wedding planner Wren had her own dark stalker fantasies, but when fantasy became reality (and then some) excitement and adrenalin turned to real terror. I liked her though, even though she should have run far far away, she wasn't afraid to challenge Dante. She wanted to see the boy in him that only she'd known all those years ago. There was a toxic obsession on both sides but neither could ignore the pull. Somehow it worked, Wren was perfect for Dante with his possessive, protective, controlling hard lines, although I'm sure she may have more to say if other secrets are revealed as she unsurprisingly struggled with some aspects of Dante's personality, his family's dynamics and the questionable things they did.
I'm looking forward to more of this powerful, ferocious family and the revenge they seek. Perhaps they'll find love on the way?
Dark, dangerous, deadly and possessive, Dante "Dragon" Cortez is a very bad man and makes no apologies about it. Although his moral code was seriously twisted, he was 100% loyal and protective to those in his inner circle, but I admit I struggled to truly fall for him due to his brutally cold attitude towards certain aspects of the business (I recommend reading the prequel Darker Shades first to get the full picture, although its not essential). I did however love the way Dante stayed true to his character all the way through, he was who he was, take him or leave him, although leaving is probably not as easy as it sounds!
Wedding planner Wren had her own dark stalker fantasies, but when fantasy became reality (and then some) excitement and adrenalin turned to real terror. I liked her though, even though she should have run far far away, she wasn't afraid to challenge Dante. She wanted to see the boy in him that only she'd known all those years ago. There was a toxic obsession on both sides but neither could ignore the pull. Somehow it worked, Wren was perfect for Dante with his possessive, protective, controlling hard lines, although I'm sure she may have more to say if other secrets are revealed as she unsurprisingly struggled with some aspects of Dante's personality, his family's dynamics and the questionable things they did.
I'm looking forward to more of this powerful, ferocious family and the revenge they seek. Perhaps they'll find love on the way?
November 29, 2022
I was very kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review and I have given it 5 stars.
I am a little late in writing my review but it's taken me this long to process my thoughts.
This talented duo are the queens of dark romance, antiheroes and angst and nobody and I mean NOBODY does it better than they do!!
If dark romance and brooding alphas are your thing, then this is definitely a book you need to read and believe me you won't be disappointed.
I am a little late in writing my review but it's taken me this long to process my thoughts.
This talented duo are the queens of dark romance, antiheroes and angst and nobody and I mean NOBODY does it better than they do!!
If dark romance and brooding alphas are your thing, then this is definitely a book you need to read and believe me you won't be disappointed.
November 14, 2022
Anyone touches or even looks at you … they will die.
Dark, Sexy, Possessive, Stalker Vibes.
Loved the story and where it was going. Fast paced and didn’t want to put it down. Wanted to know from one chapter to the next. Kept me on the edge.
Follows on from the Novella.
Loved Wren and she pushes buttons & Dante is always angry and possessive.
I’m looking forward to the next book and seeing where the story leads with the family.
Dark, Sexy, Possessive, Stalker Vibes.
Loved the story and where it was going. Fast paced and didn’t want to put it down. Wanted to know from one chapter to the next. Kept me on the edge.
Follows on from the Novella.
Loved Wren and she pushes buttons & Dante is always angry and possessive.
I’m looking forward to the next book and seeing where the story leads with the family.
November 11, 2022
This book took my breath away! When Sinners Fall is a dark romance with incredibly strong main characters. I love how it starts, with Wren trying to play out one of her dark fantasies and her fantasy becomes reality. There is a damsel and a dragon. Sometimes you must be careful what you wish for, and this story does have twists and turns. But all good stories do. I am anxious to read the next book in this series. These characters have quickly captivated my attention, and I love a trip to the dark side.
November 30, 2022
We’re no strangers to dark, disturbing effed-up romances with their anti-heroes, but this is our first time with Hart De Lune, which is writing partners, Charlotte E. Hart & Rachel De Lune. We were advised to read Darker Shades first which is the prequel in their new House of Skin series, and we’re so glad we did. We can’t say we were prepared for the journey we embarked upon because it’s been a while since our last dip into the darkness but wow what a return we made with these Authors. This series is horrifically disturbing, confronting, and violent, so be aware that it has many triggers. It‘s compelling and ridiculously addictive too. It’s not easy to read at times but we couldn’t look away.
‘I’ve made my bed. I’m lying in it until I decide if I should get the hell out.’
Darker Shades tested us however we didn’t realise how much until we started When Sinners Fall. We knew nothing about this prequel so when we realised who, what and why we were literally left gobsmacked. It’s a true testament to an Author’s fabulous writing skills when their character development, depth of story, and showing but not telling means you can suspend all your real-life morals and beliefs and purely live in a fictional world that begins on the first page and ends on the last. The duo of Hart De Lune did just that!
‘This man has to trust me. He has to think I’m special – something to him – or he might not help us. He still might not, but at least this way I can say I tried everything to save us.’
In Darker Shades we meet Jackson Reed, head of a crime syndicate in London. Having ‘teamed’ up with the Cortez family; a family that’ll have even the most hardened dark romance reader balk at the ‘effed up-ness,’ Reed must prove his standing and professionalism in their dark world. We didn’t know much about Reed, but it was obvious he was no stranger to extreme violence and the seedier inhumane side of crime and debauchery. Until coming upon Naja, and her sister Mira, Reed had no scruples, much like the Cortez family. Well, that is unless it harms a hair on a loved one. This prequel serves as a dark sinister snapshot of what came before and sets up the series about the Cortez brothers.
‘I smiled from afar and kept myself well the fuck away from something I knew I would ruin. Might be the only good thing I’ve done with my life. And I sure as hell don’t need her back here, now I’m who I am because of that past.’
We meet Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez in Darker Shades and hand on heart we weren’t sure how we’d feel about him in When Sinners Fall. He certainly wasn’t on our Christmas card list when we began his story. But in this alternative dark romance, his story and character are riveting, and we could see how he got where he ended up. No excuses, and no remorse, Dante is who he is. Yet underneath, when he sees an important face from his past, the young lad within him recognises old feelings of compassion, loyalty, and friendship in the all-grown-up, Wren Campbell.
‘I liked that he needed me. I could see it in his eyes when they would pause for a fleeting moment and look right at me. He was lost, and I was his safe harbour, and it made anything else I heard about him or his family vanish…Maybe being in my world saved him from his.’
This woman has always had an important part of his heart and her reaction to him is visceral. Wren has no idea what she’s letting herself into, she thinks the worst but that doesn’t even come close. Their connection is undeniable, their chemistry, fiery. Their love is all-consuming and at times volatile. Theirs is not your bog-standard hearts and flowers love story, but it has passion and emotion.
‘He looks at me like he’d stand in front of the world to protect me – like he’d burn it to the ground or watch it suffer for daring to mess with me.’
Much has been said about anti-heroes, and a lot of discussions have taken place and still are on anti-heroes and their place on a scale of redemption and change. Sometimes redemption is found in the person they fall in love with, other times they take on a complete personality change.
‘I asked for all in. He delivered. And now I’m living with the consequences.’
For us -in our humble opinion- what draws us is the anti-heroes that still retain that ‘specific to them’ essence that makes them who they are. The unapologetic anti-heroes don’t go through a complete personality change. Rather, revelations of the past, growth through their own effed-up love story, and the journey they take are what we personally find the most thrilling in our dark romance. Dante ‘Dragon’ Cortez and Wren Bird’s story of love is violently disturbing, but at its core, shrouded in darkness, is a story of friendship, compassion, acceptance, and love. We cannot wait for more in this series of interconnected standalones.
‘He’d die for me. It’s heady, and not in a safe or sane way, but in a completely toxic and possessive way. And maybe that’s just us. Maybe, right from the start, that’s what we were going to be.’
Ebook
Paperback
November 10, 2022
When Sinners Fall by Hart De Lune is the first book in their new series House Of Skin. It follows on from the prequel Darker Shades which introduced us to the Cortez brothers. A gritty, raw and dark romance about Dante Cortez aka Dragon and Wren Campbell. This is a typical story by these authors, with evil characters who will make you wonder why you start to like them. These are brutal and violent men who live and work in an evil world so there are some very disturbing scenes.
“Take the best of me, enjoy it, and leave the worst the hell alone.”
Dragon is a ruthless, cold and emotionless man due to his circumstances. He is a listener not a talker who is very loyal and protective of his family. His main job is to stop any trouble for the family businesses so he threatens, hurts and kills anyone who goes against them. He is struggling after the tragic and dramatic events in London, he is angry and can’t wait to get revenge.
Seven years ago Wren left for Seattle but now finds herself back home and starting a new job, working as a wedding planner. She likes watching people and making up stories about them, however, the worlds she creates are twisted and depraved. She generally has a sunshine outlook but loves good versus evil tales, and her imagination explores her darker urges and fantasies.
One day Dragon notices a woman and realises she is his old school friend - his ‘Wren Bird’. He is flooded with memories about his past life but confused over why she is back in town. She’s the only woman who protected him and tried to make his life better. Wren remembers Dante as the sad little boy she protected against the bullies, he was her best friend and always kind to her. Now he is a dark and dangerous man who excites her. She finds him thrilling but also terrifying.
The bond between them is still there but he can’t have her learning about what his family does. As things progress he becomes very possessive and protective. He is an obsessive, controlling and demanding man but I loved how she challenges him every step of the way. She has hope for them when she see glimpses of the boy she knew and tries to understand why he’s changed.
We meet the rest of the family, learn more about the brother’s history and the dynamics between them all. Things between them are strained when their Mother instigates a deal to gain more power. Dante and Wren’s relationship is toxic and insane so can they make it work. Their roles have reversed now but the need for each other is still there. Her fantasy worlds were fun and harmless but being with Dante starts to get scary and could totally change her life. Can he live the two lives he’s created and keep her safe. I can’t wait to see what happens next and if we get another brother or more from these two.
“Take the best of me, enjoy it, and leave the worst the hell alone.”
Dragon is a ruthless, cold and emotionless man due to his circumstances. He is a listener not a talker who is very loyal and protective of his family. His main job is to stop any trouble for the family businesses so he threatens, hurts and kills anyone who goes against them. He is struggling after the tragic and dramatic events in London, he is angry and can’t wait to get revenge.
Seven years ago Wren left for Seattle but now finds herself back home and starting a new job, working as a wedding planner. She likes watching people and making up stories about them, however, the worlds she creates are twisted and depraved. She generally has a sunshine outlook but loves good versus evil tales, and her imagination explores her darker urges and fantasies.
One day Dragon notices a woman and realises she is his old school friend - his ‘Wren Bird’. He is flooded with memories about his past life but confused over why she is back in town. She’s the only woman who protected him and tried to make his life better. Wren remembers Dante as the sad little boy she protected against the bullies, he was her best friend and always kind to her. Now he is a dark and dangerous man who excites her. She finds him thrilling but also terrifying.
The bond between them is still there but he can’t have her learning about what his family does. As things progress he becomes very possessive and protective. He is an obsessive, controlling and demanding man but I loved how she challenges him every step of the way. She has hope for them when she see glimpses of the boy she knew and tries to understand why he’s changed.
We meet the rest of the family, learn more about the brother’s history and the dynamics between them all. Things between them are strained when their Mother instigates a deal to gain more power. Dante and Wren’s relationship is toxic and insane so can they make it work. Their roles have reversed now but the need for each other is still there. Her fantasy worlds were fun and harmless but being with Dante starts to get scary and could totally change her life. Can he live the two lives he’s created and keep her safe. I can’t wait to see what happens next and if we get another brother or more from these two.
November 15, 2022
I have really come to love the duo known as Hart De Lune. Charlotte E. Hart and Rachel De Lune started me on the path of Dark Romance, and I have never looked back. Falling for the bad boys is a guilty pleasure I’m sure I’ll be indulging in for years to come. Falling for Dante Cortez is something I never dreamt I’d do, but fall I did!
When Sinners Fall is on the darker side of dark. The Cortez brothers are not to be liked. In fact, they are the villains in the prequel, Darker Shades. Like any other mafia-style family, they were born into it, and getting out is not an option. Bad men deserve love, too, and Wren Campbell saw the good in Dante Cortez from childhood.
I loved how the suspense kept me on edge, kept my heart palpitating for what was to come, and slowly seduced me into falling for one of the bad boys. Dante Cortez is obsessed and possessive of his bird, Wren. Their childhood set the stage for their explosive relationship. Wren’s proclivity for walking on the edge isn’t exactly smart, but with Dante watching her from the shadows, her excitement is heightened, and she can’t stop.
Dante will most definitely set off some triggers for some readers, so go in warned that this is a dark romance with dark themes. Dante does some shocking things; he is non-apologetic for anything. But also go in knowing that behind every bad man is most likely a loving woman for him to come home to who allows him to let all the bad fade into the night. Wren sees both sides of Dante, and for better or for worse, she has accepted him as he is.
I am on pins and needles, waiting for book two. The authors left us on quite a cliffhanger as the suspense is building for what comes next for the Cortez family.
When Sinners Fall is on the darker side of dark. The Cortez brothers are not to be liked. In fact, they are the villains in the prequel, Darker Shades. Like any other mafia-style family, they were born into it, and getting out is not an option. Bad men deserve love, too, and Wren Campbell saw the good in Dante Cortez from childhood.
I loved how the suspense kept me on edge, kept my heart palpitating for what was to come, and slowly seduced me into falling for one of the bad boys. Dante Cortez is obsessed and possessive of his bird, Wren. Their childhood set the stage for their explosive relationship. Wren’s proclivity for walking on the edge isn’t exactly smart, but with Dante watching her from the shadows, her excitement is heightened, and she can’t stop.
Dante will most definitely set off some triggers for some readers, so go in warned that this is a dark romance with dark themes. Dante does some shocking things; he is non-apologetic for anything. But also go in knowing that behind every bad man is most likely a loving woman for him to come home to who allows him to let all the bad fade into the night. Wren sees both sides of Dante, and for better or for worse, she has accepted him as he is.
I am on pins and needles, waiting for book two. The authors left us on quite a cliffhanger as the suspense is building for what comes next for the Cortez family.
November 13, 2022
We meet the Cortez brothers in the novella Darker Shades. They are not people you'd want to get mixed up with let alone fall in love with.
Wren is back in her home town working as a wedding planner/consultant. She refuses to live with her mother and rents a place that is easy enough to walk to work. Walking home from work one night she feels like someone is watching her. And then the next, and another. At first she is nervous but slowly starts to think it's exciting and wonders who could be following her.
Dante Cortez is not someone to mess around with. One day he notices that someone from his childhood has come back to town. After seeing her, he ends up with a need of wanting to watch her and maybe at some point reuniting with her. Night after night he watches her as she walks home from her job. Good thing he does because someone else has been following her as well. Neither of them have good intentions but Dante can just hide it better.
One they reunite, in a very unusual way, Wrens world will forever be changed. She knows some things about the Cortez'S but she doesn't realize just how much she doesn't know.
Dante doesn't want anyone getting mixed up in his world, let alone Wren. He knows that she could get hurt but also doesn't want to let her go. He has to decide what he is going to do with her and has has to come to terms with his world of she wants to stay.
Wren is back in her home town working as a wedding planner/consultant. She refuses to live with her mother and rents a place that is easy enough to walk to work. Walking home from work one night she feels like someone is watching her. And then the next, and another. At first she is nervous but slowly starts to think it's exciting and wonders who could be following her.
Dante Cortez is not someone to mess around with. One day he notices that someone from his childhood has come back to town. After seeing her, he ends up with a need of wanting to watch her and maybe at some point reuniting with her. Night after night he watches her as she walks home from her job. Good thing he does because someone else has been following her as well. Neither of them have good intentions but Dante can just hide it better.
One they reunite, in a very unusual way, Wrens world will forever be changed. She knows some things about the Cortez'S but she doesn't realize just how much she doesn't know.
Dante doesn't want anyone getting mixed up in his world, let alone Wren. He knows that she could get hurt but also doesn't want to let her go. He has to decide what he is going to do with her and has has to come to terms with his world of she wants to stay.
November 9, 2022
Oh my! When I read about the Cortez brothers in Darker Shades (House of Skin), I really did not like them and thought they deserved everything they got and more besides!
So. Ms Hart and Ms de Lune, had to go and shake that belief and write a totally gripping first book in a new series!
Wren was fabulous! Confident and able. Being head hunted brings her to a different place and she's ready to show the world how capable and brilliant she is...
Hmmm...that brings her into the orbit of Dante Cortez. Not a nice man. From a not nice family.
He wants her and regardless of her thoughts on the subject, she's going to be his. BUT, and it's a very BIG but, things are not going to be plain sailing!
So there are plot twists everywhere. And what could have been a normal story launches into a book that I couldn't put down and the end...OMG!!! The end??? I really don't like our wonderful authors for how this story ended... and I NEED the next book yesterday! lol!
Highly recommended!
Fabulous but very dark read!
So. Ms Hart and Ms de Lune, had to go and shake that belief and write a totally gripping first book in a new series!
Wren was fabulous! Confident and able. Being head hunted brings her to a different place and she's ready to show the world how capable and brilliant she is...
Hmmm...that brings her into the orbit of Dante Cortez. Not a nice man. From a not nice family.
He wants her and regardless of her thoughts on the subject, she's going to be his. BUT, and it's a very BIG but, things are not going to be plain sailing!
So there are plot twists everywhere. And what could have been a normal story launches into a book that I couldn't put down and the end...OMG!!! The end??? I really don't like our wonderful authors for how this story ended... and I NEED the next book yesterday! lol!
Highly recommended!
Fabulous but very dark read!
November 27, 2022
Oh lordy lord what did I just read?! How did Charlotte and Rachel get me to swoon even just a little over Dante? I really don't know but they damn sure did. There were things that he said and ways that he expressed his love for Wren that got me in my feels. It must be the dark romance magic. I have read plenty of dark romance but nothing like this and I love that! I can't say that I connected to Wren or her story but I was invested in her just the same. Dante is in a place all his own. He is unapologetic and I hate that but I also found him and their story so interesting. Definitely hard on my heart in parts. How could it not be with what he does "for a living". There's one of his brothers I can't imagine I'm ever going to come around to. Heck I don't know if I came around to Dante! Lol! That being said I'm curious about the rest of the series. REALLY curious. My boundaries were pushed with this book. As a reader that's an amazing for a book to do.
November 3, 2022
Wren protected Dante when they were at school and now they have met up again he is protecting her but at what cost. Wren loves to fantasize about the darker side but is not really prepared for the reality. Wren is strong enough to accept it even if she doesn’t want to know specifics and their physical relationship is dynamite. Some of the scenes are difficult to read and certainly made me uncomfortable, but seeing the transformation in Dante is fascinating. There are no hearts and flowers in this story and no apologies for the Cortez family trading in women, and if Dante did change that much it wouldn’t ring true and would destroy the story.
November 11, 2022
Dante “Dragon” Cortez wasn’t always like this. He was once a bullied kid in school with only one person who ever stood up for him. Wren, another outcast who saw the sweet boy he was. No one would believe this very dark and dangerous man, who men fear and could kill you as soon as look at you, would be challenged by a woman. Then Dante spots Wren, who just moved back to San Antonio, and his focus turns to Wren-bird. Dante is not the boy he was in any way. Wren finds his dominance and devient desires something she needs. He goes all in with her and that means danger for them both.
This book contains trigger warnings, it may not appeal to everyone. I really get into the darkness, so I enjoyed every twisted moment!
I love when the Devil and Angel duo of Hart De Lune write together. The balance is perfection for a great mix of dark, dirty, and delicious. Great start to this series!
This book contains trigger warnings, it may not appeal to everyone. I really get into the darkness, so I enjoyed every twisted moment!
I love when the Devil and Angel duo of Hart De Lune write together. The balance is perfection for a great mix of dark, dirty, and delicious. Great start to this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2022
I loved this read and once I started reading Wren and Dragon's story I had to keep turning the pages to see what happened next. Wren moves back to San Antonio to work as a wedding planner. One night while walking home she feels like she's being followed but she can never see anyone. This happens a few times until one night she dares to do something deep and dark on the way home and finds out who her stalker is. Dragon is part of the Cortez family and does things he doesn't want Wren to know about. Wren and Dragon were friends when they were younger and Wren would protect Dragon when he got bullied at school. Now it's Dragon's turn to look after Wren.
I received an arc to do my honest review for NNBB> If you love a dark romance you will love this read. There are triggers for people in this story so heed the author's warnings.
I received an arc to do my honest review for NNBB> If you love a dark romance you will love this read. There are triggers for people in this story so heed the author's warnings.
November 15, 2022
What an amazing dark romance. This is definitely not one for the faint hearted. If you’re expecting rainbows and flowers then think again! Hart de Lune will have you wanting to turn each page and never wanting the book to end! I absolutely adore Dante and Wren. Dante is dark and broody and so bloody sexy he will have you squirming in your seat!
Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
November 14, 2022
This is a wow of a read. This is Dante Cortez dark and dangerous read that has you putting the family story together in a deeper sense of darkness that is dangerous and demanding. This is a very intense read that I read in one sitting and I just can’t explain in words the depth of this story.
November 21, 2022
When sinners fall (House of skin 1)
This is the first book in this series, this book follows on from the novella. This is the continued story of Jackson and Naja, this story delves deeper into their relationship and life. This story is well space and will have you engaged from start to finish. Once you pick this book up you won't be getting any sleep any time soon. This story is just so gripping. This story is filled with action, suspense, hot and steamy scenes, and angst from the first chapter. This is an intriguing dark romance story for this author. I definitely suggest reading the novella first before reading this book. I can't wait to see where this story goes with the characters and the storyline in the next book.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest review
Release date - 01 Oct 2022
www.obsessedbookreviews.com
November 28, 2022
Wow where do I begin? I was stuck in this book to the very end. After finishing I was sitting feeling like I lost my best friend. I could see myself rereading this book alot. Dante will have you coming back for a fix.
November 24, 2022
A wonderfully dark, and fantastic read. Once again we are thrown right in to a mind field of emotions from hate to wow wow wow. This is the first book from the serirs House of Skin, These two authors should be known as the dynamic duo as when they come together you know your in for a wonderful read. I'm won't spoil it for anyone but trust me this is a 5* read.
November 14, 2022
When Sinner’s Fall is the first book in the House of Skin series. You can read this book as a standalone however, why would you? This is a great start to this series. Actually Darker Shades was a great start and made it where I just had to read this book!
This is Dante Cortez and Wren Campbell’s story. This book is full of triggers for those that have triggers. It is pretty darn- (tamed down for Amazon) dark.
The only thing I would wish for in the book is more follow up on the couple in Darker Shades, Jackson and Naja’s story. There are 4 brothers in this book, Elias, Dante (dragon), Abel and Knox (Poe).
I suppose #0.5 was Elias’ story too. If you love dark reads then I highly recommend When Sinners Fall. But pick up #0.5 book Darker Shades first! 5+ Stars
This is Dante Cortez and Wren Campbell’s story. This book is full of triggers for those that have triggers. It is pretty darn- (tamed down for Amazon) dark.
The only thing I would wish for in the book is more follow up on the couple in Darker Shades, Jackson and Naja’s story. There are 4 brothers in this book, Elias, Dante (dragon), Abel and Knox (Poe).
I suppose #0.5 was Elias’ story too. If you love dark reads then I highly recommend When Sinners Fall. But pick up #0.5 book Darker Shades first! 5+ Stars
December 9, 2022
I scratch my head in wonder, as I truly don’t know how they did it, but this brilliant writing duo have made me love the bad guy! I was quite apprehensive about starting 'When Sinners Fall' as having read the Darker Shades (House of Skin) I didn’t think I could grow to love Dante, but boy I fell hook, line and sinker! His presence on the page tripled my heart rate and under all his layers, I could see what Wren saw in him. Their connection was beautiful. There is no denying it’s dark, but their connection is deliciously intense and I can’t wait for the next book.
January 2, 2024
dark and delicious
Went into this book blind with new to me authors. Brilliantly written that it captivates you. Couldn’t put it down. When they say the mmc is a villain- no truer words have been spoken. No swapping his character half was through the book. No plot twists to show why we thought he was bad. He’s just bad, crazy & dark. And I couldn’t be more here for it! Never have I fallen for the bad guy so hard
Went into this book blind with new to me authors. Brilliantly written that it captivates you. Couldn’t put it down. When they say the mmc is a villain- no truer words have been spoken. No swapping his character half was through the book. No plot twists to show why we thought he was bad. He’s just bad, crazy & dark. And I couldn’t be more here for it! Never have I fallen for the bad guy so hard
March 1, 2023
Maybe I am the crazy one or maybe other books have give me an unrealistic expectation for dark romances. Whatever the reason, I was not convinced reading When Sinners Fall. Honestly, the prequel was darker than this and even then, I was waiting for more.
They are men with little morals whose core business is human trafficking. I am not denying that it is one of the worse crimes to commit and that except for Shaw, they seem to have no problems trading skin and maybe even raping some of these women. I don't know about that last part for sure though because once again when the book is diving into the dark, we fade to black.
I love Dante and Wren's foundation. I was ready for every morsel of their childhood and I loved their banter and how they engaged.
As for Dante, he is clearly angry and may be the one that is most comfortable with this life. He is unapologetic for his choices and I just love that. Still, I wasn't endeared to the character. He is a bit quirky but I feel nothing for the man.
I am conflicted about Wren. The Wren we met in the opening chapters was fabulous and even though I find her pastime questionable, I can't say no to a confident character. Where we ended though leaves a lot to be desired. It's almost like their story is nowhere near ended, which is fine, but then how do we get to be privy to the conversation when she finds out what exactly Dante does for a living?
The sex wasn't sexy. It wasn't even weird. It just was. Honestly, I most enjoyed it when they fought for dominance in the relationship and it wasn't frequent.
I don't hate this book or the story. I am just indifferent? It ticks the boxes it needed to tick but I don't have a burning need to continue the series. I don't even really care that much about Abel. I am also very confused why they need this arrangement but then I guess I would have to read the next book to find out?
Sad to say, but it seems the only character that could have given us a dark romance and our money's worth is Elias and we know how that ended.
They are men with little morals whose core business is human trafficking. I am not denying that it is one of the worse crimes to commit and that except for Shaw, they seem to have no problems trading skin and maybe even raping some of these women. I don't know about that last part for sure though because once again when the book is diving into the dark, we fade to black.
I love Dante and Wren's foundation. I was ready for every morsel of their childhood and I loved their banter and how they engaged.
As for Dante, he is clearly angry and may be the one that is most comfortable with this life. He is unapologetic for his choices and I just love that. Still, I wasn't endeared to the character. He is a bit quirky but I feel nothing for the man.
I am conflicted about Wren. The Wren we met in the opening chapters was fabulous and even though I find her pastime questionable, I can't say no to a confident character. Where we ended though leaves a lot to be desired. It's almost like their story is nowhere near ended, which is fine, but then how do we get to be privy to the conversation when she finds out what exactly Dante does for a living?
The sex wasn't sexy. It wasn't even weird. It just was. Honestly, I most enjoyed it when they fought for dominance in the relationship and it wasn't frequent.
I don't hate this book or the story. I am just indifferent? It ticks the boxes it needed to tick but I don't have a burning need to continue the series. I don't even really care that much about Abel. I am also very confused why they need this arrangement but then I guess I would have to read the next book to find out?
Sad to say, but it seems the only character that could have given us a dark romance and our money's worth is Elias and we know how that ended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews