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If the Darkness Had Wings
Cassie Clarke thought her life was perfect. She had a successful career in her family’s San Francisco art gallery, and a boyfriend that any girl would swoon over. But with one tantalizing smile, Chavela Castillo throws Cassie’s life into complete chaos.
It’s more than the fact that Chavela is sexy, poised and confident, or that her smile sets Cassie's blood on fire from across the room. She has a depth of being that Cassie has never encountered before; a depth that invites Cassie to look at everything in her life, including herself, with new eyes.
Cassie begins to see how paper-thin her life actually is, and she discovers that she doesn’t just want more of Chavela; she wants more of herself. Soon, Cassie finds herself swept up in a whirlwind of passion, leading her down dark corridors and moonlit streets, and into the sacred depths of her own soul.
Cassie senses the danger, lurking just out of sight, threatening to swallow her whole if she veers too far from the light. But she doesn’t care. As the darkness looms ever larger, she plunges ahead, unwilling to let go of the burning passion that threatens to consume her. Unwilling to turn away from her heart, even if it means embracing the terrifying truth of who, or rather what, Chavela really is.
It’s more than the fact that Chavela is sexy, poised and confident, or that her smile sets Cassie's blood on fire from across the room. She has a depth of being that Cassie has never encountered before; a depth that invites Cassie to look at everything in her life, including herself, with new eyes.
Cassie begins to see how paper-thin her life actually is, and she discovers that she doesn’t just want more of Chavela; she wants more of herself. Soon, Cassie finds herself swept up in a whirlwind of passion, leading her down dark corridors and moonlit streets, and into the sacred depths of her own soul.
Cassie senses the danger, lurking just out of sight, threatening to swallow her whole if she veers too far from the light. But she doesn’t care. As the darkness looms ever larger, she plunges ahead, unwilling to let go of the burning passion that threatens to consume her. Unwilling to turn away from her heart, even if it means embracing the terrifying truth of who, or rather what, Chavela really is.
288 pages, Paperback
Published September 4, 2024
4 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 20, 2024
Isa Ingram’s debut novel is a thought provoking story which is brimming with insightful and intriguing counter points between living your life in the darkness or by the light. The story is written with a richness of the language and highlight worthy passages that make If the Darkness had Wings an exceptionally compelling read.
The story follows Cassie Clarke as her unexpected attraction to Chavela Castillo grows with each encounter. Threads begin to unravel in Cassie’s perfect world as she takes her first introspective look at her life’s choices. This leads her to the ultimate choice between living by her darker and baser instincts or by societal norms.
The story is also a slow dance to the budding romance which contains some of the best dialogue that I have read this year. In particular is the discussion surrounding the intentions of the characters of Christine and the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. This brought back fond memories of my favourite English literature class discussions.
With all this being said, Ingram’s novel has me reevaluating my expectations for any and all future vampire stories. She has set a very high bar.
I received a review copy from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story follows Cassie Clarke as her unexpected attraction to Chavela Castillo grows with each encounter. Threads begin to unravel in Cassie’s perfect world as she takes her first introspective look at her life’s choices. This leads her to the ultimate choice between living by her darker and baser instincts or by societal norms.
The story is also a slow dance to the budding romance which contains some of the best dialogue that I have read this year. In particular is the discussion surrounding the intentions of the characters of Christine and the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. This brought back fond memories of my favourite English literature class discussions.
With all this being said, Ingram’s novel has me reevaluating my expectations for any and all future vampire stories. She has set a very high bar.
I received a review copy from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2024
Thanks to Della for recommending this book to me. I enjoyed it. I liked the mc Cassie, she was in a 3 year relationship with a guy- Grant and just going through the motions of everyday life. She worked in her parents art gallery and had to suffer though her mom’s belittling attitude daily. Her best friend Roxanne was a very supportive and interesting person. I liked their interactions.
Chavela was a vampire who meets Cassie in her art gallery. They both felt an immediate attraction for each other. Chavela challenges Cassie to evaluate her life and decide if it is meaningful. Throughout the book there is conversation about the meaning of life. This was new for me to read about a philosophical vampire.
Isa Ingram did a good job setting the scenes in SF and gave Chavela’s house a dark and spooky feel.
Chavela was a vampire who meets Cassie in her art gallery. They both felt an immediate attraction for each other. Chavela challenges Cassie to evaluate her life and decide if it is meaningful. Throughout the book there is conversation about the meaning of life. This was new for me to read about a philosophical vampire.
Isa Ingram did a good job setting the scenes in SF and gave Chavela’s house a dark and spooky feel.
November 28, 2024
Before I said yes, a friend who recommended the book warned me that the story is not like my usual gory vampire story, instead, it’s a “thinking” story. Ok, I’m sold. I gave it a go.
You know when you get a whiff of a smell and it takes you back to a very random time in your life. Well, that’s what happened to me with this book but instead of smells, it was the feeling the characters and story evoked in me. It pulled me back to a book I read when I was a teenager, The Last Vampire by Christopher Pike. There were zero similarities to any of the storyline but the vibe was so similar. It warmed my heart to remember that old pocket book story.
If The Darkness Had Wings is definitely a “thinking” vampire story. It’s different from the current trend of sapphic vampire stories because it has less gore and murder and more on self-reflection and shadow work. It was worth my time reading it and I cannot wait for “maybe” a second book because the ending… there’s no way that was the end end.
You know when you get a whiff of a smell and it takes you back to a very random time in your life. Well, that’s what happened to me with this book but instead of smells, it was the feeling the characters and story evoked in me. It pulled me back to a book I read when I was a teenager, The Last Vampire by Christopher Pike. There were zero similarities to any of the storyline but the vibe was so similar. It warmed my heart to remember that old pocket book story.
If The Darkness Had Wings is definitely a “thinking” vampire story. It’s different from the current trend of sapphic vampire stories because it has less gore and murder and more on self-reflection and shadow work. It was worth my time reading it and I cannot wait for “maybe” a second book because the ending… there’s no way that was the end end.
December 8, 2024
Full disclosure. If asked, I don’t read vampire novels. However, when asked if I would like to read a thought provoking story which was brimming with insightful and intriguing counter points between living your life in the darkness and the light. I was “where do I sign up?”…….
There was so much rich writing in this book. I loved the double layers to phrases. Very descriptive without distracting, in other words the descriptions add to my knowledge. The imagery nurtured my soul……. The writer does a much better job than me! I have found some books over do the description, it just gets in the way. I've felt "yeah, yeah, I get it! Now move on." This book managed to describe clearly but lyrically! Gorgeous. I also thought, from several books recently, I am not in to instant intrigue and interest. If it is written as well as this, I so am! The chemistry was addictive. I did not want to stop reading.
Mirrors are used a lot..... not in a bad way, as in overused but rather feels like the story equivalent of an Easter egg hunt! (Although I was slightly confused by one reflective comment later on!) There are other nods to the genre but I am too busy loving the richness of the book to physically note them.
Oh my goodness! The thorny rose on the doorstep ...... the realisation.... the Easter egg!
I loved that the first vampire action was totally a revenge act and I thought the guys got off lightly! The sensuality of the second....... Then things move on!!!
There is absolutely a conclusion to this book but I really hope another is forthcoming. I want to read more of the rich prose, but I also want to know what happens next...... Not a cliffhanger ending, so much the mains have finished one path that I was on them with and now they are about to depart for another!! I hope I get to go with them.
My thanks to Della B for the recommendation and Isa Ingram for the novel.
There was so much rich writing in this book. I loved the double layers to phrases. Very descriptive without distracting, in other words the descriptions add to my knowledge. The imagery nurtured my soul……. The writer does a much better job than me! I have found some books over do the description, it just gets in the way. I've felt "yeah, yeah, I get it! Now move on." This book managed to describe clearly but lyrically! Gorgeous. I also thought, from several books recently, I am not in to instant intrigue and interest. If it is written as well as this, I so am! The chemistry was addictive. I did not want to stop reading.
Mirrors are used a lot..... not in a bad way, as in overused but rather feels like the story equivalent of an Easter egg hunt! (Although I was slightly confused by one reflective comment later on!) There are other nods to the genre but I am too busy loving the richness of the book to physically note them.
Oh my goodness! The thorny rose on the doorstep ...... the realisation.... the Easter egg!
I loved that the first vampire action was totally a revenge act and I thought the guys got off lightly! The sensuality of the second....... Then things move on!!!
There is absolutely a conclusion to this book but I really hope another is forthcoming. I want to read more of the rich prose, but I also want to know what happens next...... Not a cliffhanger ending, so much the mains have finished one path that I was on them with and now they are about to depart for another!! I hope I get to go with them.
My thanks to Della B for the recommendation and Isa Ingram for the novel.
November 24, 2024
At its core, this is a story of personal growth - of realising that you want more from life, that you've been missing out on truly living, and reaching out for that. Reflection is a core part of the prose, of looking inside oneself, and seeing what truly lies there. Coupled with that is a love story, one of coming out, and a paranormal element. They're intertwined to it all, but stand as a second.
It's an enjoyable story, both taking its time and over too quickly, and it works well with the gothic aesthetic that it drapes itself in. Roxanne is sweet and a great friend, reflections on friends very much a part of the story too.
It concludes, but it is one that I would really like to see a sequel to. The self-discovery is over, but there is so much more to explore with the characters, especially with the event right at the end.
It's an enjoyable story, both taking its time and over too quickly, and it works well with the gothic aesthetic that it drapes itself in. Roxanne is sweet and a great friend, reflections on friends very much a part of the story too.
It concludes, but it is one that I would really like to see a sequel to. The self-discovery is over, but there is so much more to explore with the characters, especially with the event right at the end.
September 18, 2024
Heartfelt, sensual, and compelling
My girlfriend and I read this book in tandem, and it made for some very interesting conversation. I’ve never read a vampire romance before, so this was new territory for me. I wasn’t sure if I’d like it, but I found a lot of beautiful metaphor in it. We all have shadow aspects - our dark sides that we’d rather not have others see, especially those we love most. But in order to experience true intimacy, there’s no way around sharing all of who we are and uncovering all about the person we love - the light and the dark.
The author did a wonderful job of weaving spirituality and mysticism into this novel. She kept me wanting to turn the pages and find out what happens next.
The ending left me with many questions, but I think a mark of a good book is that it makes you think and consider different perspectives. Ingram certainly achieved that.
There are a lot of sweet and down-to-earth moments in the story, too. The dialogue between Cassie and her best friend Roxanne is comfortable and easy, while serving as a reality check for Cassie. Roxanne forces her (in that gentle yet no-nonsense way a best friend does) to be honest with herself and look beyond the haze of infatuation that may cloud her judgement.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for something different. Anyone who senses there’s more to life than what we perceive on the surface. Anyone seeking depth and willing to delve into the deep waters of the heart and soul.
My girlfriend and I read this book in tandem, and it made for some very interesting conversation. I’ve never read a vampire romance before, so this was new territory for me. I wasn’t sure if I’d like it, but I found a lot of beautiful metaphor in it. We all have shadow aspects - our dark sides that we’d rather not have others see, especially those we love most. But in order to experience true intimacy, there’s no way around sharing all of who we are and uncovering all about the person we love - the light and the dark.
The author did a wonderful job of weaving spirituality and mysticism into this novel. She kept me wanting to turn the pages and find out what happens next.
The ending left me with many questions, but I think a mark of a good book is that it makes you think and consider different perspectives. Ingram certainly achieved that.
There are a lot of sweet and down-to-earth moments in the story, too. The dialogue between Cassie and her best friend Roxanne is comfortable and easy, while serving as a reality check for Cassie. Roxanne forces her (in that gentle yet no-nonsense way a best friend does) to be honest with herself and look beyond the haze of infatuation that may cloud her judgement.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for something different. Anyone who senses there’s more to life than what we perceive on the surface. Anyone seeking depth and willing to delve into the deep waters of the heart and soul.
February 1, 2025
If the Darkness Had Wings
Isa Ingram
ASIN: B0DFXF1Q2P
Publisher: Gatekeeper Press (September 1, 2024)
Publication date: September 1, 2024
“If the Darkness Had Wings” by Isa Ingram is a story of love and self-discovery. The MC, Cassie, is torn between her current life of having a good job and an attentive boyfriend that most women would desire, yet she wants to abandon it all in pursuit of a woman whose sultry smile has burned itself into Cassie’s soul.
Is it just infatuation or something more? Cassie’s best friend, Roxanne, is well-written and the perfect “no-nonsense” reality check that helps keep Cassie grounded.
The answer to that infatuation question is the core of the story behind “If the Darkness Had Wings.” The questioning of her sexuality, of what she truly wants in life, and the letting go of a lifetime of guilt and fear propel the reader forward.
I must admit to setting the book aside for a while, thinking it wasn’t all that interesting. In reality, I was frustrated with Ms. Ingram's writing of possibly one of the most extended mental foreplay scenes I’ve ever read! (Nearly half of the book). This novel is sexually explicit yet tender. And I’m glad I continued to its conclusion.
Isa Ingram
ASIN: B0DFXF1Q2P
Publisher: Gatekeeper Press (September 1, 2024)
Publication date: September 1, 2024
“If the Darkness Had Wings” by Isa Ingram is a story of love and self-discovery. The MC, Cassie, is torn between her current life of having a good job and an attentive boyfriend that most women would desire, yet she wants to abandon it all in pursuit of a woman whose sultry smile has burned itself into Cassie’s soul.
Is it just infatuation or something more? Cassie’s best friend, Roxanne, is well-written and the perfect “no-nonsense” reality check that helps keep Cassie grounded.
The answer to that infatuation question is the core of the story behind “If the Darkness Had Wings.” The questioning of her sexuality, of what she truly wants in life, and the letting go of a lifetime of guilt and fear propel the reader forward.
I must admit to setting the book aside for a while, thinking it wasn’t all that interesting. In reality, I was frustrated with Ms. Ingram's writing of possibly one of the most extended mental foreplay scenes I’ve ever read! (Nearly half of the book). This novel is sexually explicit yet tender. And I’m glad I continued to its conclusion.
October 20, 2024
My first ever vampire romance novel certainly made me want to read more... and it also brought up a lot more deep reflection than one might expect based on the topic. There was a sensuousness to the story that transported me to fog-filled streets and gorgeous old Victorians. The dialogue was snappy and engaging which gave space for the deeper themes woven throughout to take root without feeling like too much. It was a delight to be immersed in Isa's unique and poetic voice while exploring thoughts about self-knowledge and desire and the forces keeping us from knowing ourselves. There was a presence to the writing that invites us to be more present in our own lives. At the same time the overlap of Gothic themes and queerness or "otherness" was seamless. I highly recommend that others read this and soon, as it's so fitting going into the winter months.
October 17, 2024
If the Darkness Had Wings transcends being merely a sapphic romance; it tells the story of a woman whose complacency has led her to conform to the desires of others. A chance meeting with a mysterious stranger awakens her to an entirely new way of life. It’s a narrative that explores the depths of the human psyche, offering poignant insights and profound reflections. The characters are dynamic, relatable, and endearing, while the setting enhances the enigmatic atmosphere of the unknown. I was captivated from the very first page and found myself completely absorbed in the story. I’m eager to see more of Cassie and Chavela, and I can’t wait for the second book!
Check out my full review at TheLesbianReview.com
Check out my full review at TheLesbianReview.com
January 24, 2025
Really enjoyed how this book puts a fresh spin on vampire romance! The San Francisco setting was perfect - especially how the foggy city becomes almost another character in the story. I loved watching gallery curator Cassie's world turn upside down when she meets the intriguing Chavela. Their chemistry felt real and complicated in the best way, and I found myself relating to Cassie's journey of figuring out who she is in her early twenties, and shedding habits/tendencies that no longer serve her. The way the story weaves together the art scene, supernatural elements, and personal discovery kept me hooked the whole way through. Ended with an cliffhanger, and now I can't wait for book two. A great read for anyone who likes their romance with a supernatural edge.
February 19, 2025
Isa Ingram crafts a mesmerizing tale set against the vibrant, fog-kissed backdrop of San Francisco, where romance and immortality intertwine in a love story unlike any other. At its heart, the novel follows Cassie, a thoughtful and restless woman navigating the complexities of identity, desire, and existence. Her world is upended when she meets Chavela, a centuries-old vampire with an enigmatic charm and dark past.
From there the story excels in its depiction of queer love, presenting it with the complexity and respect it deserves. The relationship between the two protagonists is layered, authentic and free from clichés. Their love is timeless and a testament to the enduring power of queer narratives.
From there the story excels in its depiction of queer love, presenting it with the complexity and respect it deserves. The relationship between the two protagonists is layered, authentic and free from clichés. Their love is timeless and a testament to the enduring power of queer narratives.
September 30, 2024
A cozy, sapphic book about finding yourself (but with vampires!)
This book was a delight to read, perfect for the start of Fall. It’s something I know would have resonated and been a favorite as a queer teen growing up in the Bay Area. While a gothic romance at heart, the main character is searching for who she really is and wants to be, while trying to escape the pitfalls of “should” we can all fall victim to. This book also made me incredibly nostalgic for cold foggy days in San Francisco. I loved seeing moments of the city written throughout this book. Hoping Isa Ingram continues the series, as I could see this novel being the set up for a lot of cool vampire adventures going forth.
This book was a delight to read, perfect for the start of Fall. It’s something I know would have resonated and been a favorite as a queer teen growing up in the Bay Area. While a gothic romance at heart, the main character is searching for who she really is and wants to be, while trying to escape the pitfalls of “should” we can all fall victim to. This book also made me incredibly nostalgic for cold foggy days in San Francisco. I loved seeing moments of the city written throughout this book. Hoping Isa Ingram continues the series, as I could see this novel being the set up for a lot of cool vampire adventures going forth.
October 26, 2024
✨Delicious Read✨
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2024
This novel was such a pleasure to read! This artfully crafted story beautifully weaves together the dynamics of family relationships, finding one’s purpose, queer culture, and building embodied self awareness within the context of a saucy supernatural lesbian love affair.
I was thoroughly moved with how Isa captured the visceral, chemical, and mental accuracy of attraction that borders on infatuation. I could literally feel the conflicted longing and desire!
Ooof and the skillfully titillating lesbian erotica🫦
Speechless…
5 stars is not enough! 10/10
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2024
This novel was such a pleasure to read! This artfully crafted story beautifully weaves together the dynamics of family relationships, finding one’s purpose, queer culture, and building embodied self awareness within the context of a saucy supernatural lesbian love affair.
I was thoroughly moved with how Isa captured the visceral, chemical, and mental accuracy of attraction that borders on infatuation. I could literally feel the conflicted longing and desire!
Ooof and the skillfully titillating lesbian erotica🫦
Speechless…
5 stars is not enough! 10/10
February 2, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! It took me a while to actually start reading, but once I started I was hooked and it pulled me right out of my reading slump!
I’m a sucker (pun intended!) for a vampire romance and this sexy sapphic vampire novel did not disappoint! I really enjoyed that the story focused on more than just romance and loved following Cassie on her journey of self discovery and personal growth; while also falling in love with a hot vampire baddie! The moderate amount of spice was another nice bonus!
The ending is a bit of a cliff hanger (does that count as a spoiler?), so there better be a sequel because I can’t wait to see what’s ahead for Cassie and Chavela!!
I’m a sucker (pun intended!) for a vampire romance and this sexy sapphic vampire novel did not disappoint! I really enjoyed that the story focused on more than just romance and loved following Cassie on her journey of self discovery and personal growth; while also falling in love with a hot vampire baddie! The moderate amount of spice was another nice bonus!
The ending is a bit of a cliff hanger (does that count as a spoiler?), so there better be a sequel because I can’t wait to see what’s ahead for Cassie and Chavela!!
October 18, 2024
4.5!
Not a book I’d typically pick up but thought it’d be fun to read a book both my daughters would/will read. Zoe and I love vampire stories and this one is nicely done. Kira loves a romance novel - this is that and it’s much more. It really captured common crossroads in life and all the emotions and repercussions that go along with them. It has layers of meaning which I loved. And the more I read, the more I loved it. An excellent book to get lost in.
Not a book I’d typically pick up but thought it’d be fun to read a book both my daughters would/will read. Zoe and I love vampire stories and this one is nicely done. Kira loves a romance novel - this is that and it’s much more. It really captured common crossroads in life and all the emotions and repercussions that go along with them. It has layers of meaning which I loved. And the more I read, the more I loved it. An excellent book to get lost in.
January 21, 2025
When it comes to romance and fantasy, there is often a lot of focus on a hero’s journey that leads to spicy content (or vice versa). What I really enjoyed about this book was the examination of relationships and identity in different parts of one’s life, whether it be with parents, partners, or friends, and how those dynamics change when you step through fear to embrace your more authentic self. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a spicy fantasy, but with a very refreshing perspective.
October 23, 2024
If the Darkness Had Wings is a captivating addition to the vampire romance genre. The novel beautifully weaves themes of passion, danger, and the struggle for identity. The chemistry between Cassie and Chavela is palpable, drawing readers into their world of longing and peril.
However, the ending left me utterly shocked with a cliffhanger that demands a sequel—seriously, I need it now!
However, the ending left me utterly shocked with a cliffhanger that demands a sequel—seriously, I need it now!
September 12, 2024
Enjoyable
I liked this story a lot. It was nice seeing Cassie grow into herself and find her own way. I started to lose interest around 75% into it, but I finished it and am glad I did.
I liked this story a lot. It was nice seeing Cassie grow into herself and find her own way. I started to lose interest around 75% into it, but I finished it and am glad I did.
September 26, 2024
3.5?
I enjoy the first few chapters; they're charming and intriguing. However, as the story progresses, it feels like it's being dragged out, and the characters give me a bit too much of a YA vibe that keeps bothering me.
I enjoy the first few chapters; they're charming and intriguing. However, as the story progresses, it feels like it's being dragged out, and the characters give me a bit too much of a YA vibe that keeps bothering me.
January 26, 2025
Ms. Ingram is a new author for me.. She will take you on a roller coaster ride. This is a classic tale with a NEW twist. I could not put this book down. I was very sorry to turn the last page. I am hoping there will be a second book, if not a complete series.
March 9, 2025
Captivating book about finding one’s authenticity and true self. Set in San Francisco, the story takes us through the protagonist’s personal growth journey after meeting a sexy vampire, Chavela. For the sapphically inclined, and in need of beautiful queer stories (with sexiness, of course).
March 10, 2025
Sapphic romance with personal growth and introspection found throughout the book. Slow burn but definitely still some spicy scenes. Well written and descriptive.
Good ending but leaves off where this could potentially be followed by another book.
Good ending but leaves off where this could potentially be followed by another book.
September 26, 2024
3.5 Stars
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews