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Pretty in the Dark

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It wasn’t supposed to happen like this.
I was supposed to come home, start over, and live my life free of my father's control.
But instead everywhere I turn I’m reminded of my past. Especially when I run into the one man I’ve never been able to get over. Cade Black.
We used and broke each other.
And I took the revenge he promised me on my knees while begging for more. But how can we move past our families' hatred and history when there’s someone in the darkness watching me?
The shadows of my past creep through the streets of my city and cling to the walls of my home searching for something. Something I was never supposed to find out about. Something that could destroy the new life I’m trying to build and the broken trust I’m trying to repair between me and Cade.
But now that the invitation to learn more is at my door I can’t look away.
They say what’s done in the dark will be brought to the light.
But I fear this darkness will swallow me whole.

Authors This book is the second in the Dark and Wild series and does end on a cliffhanger. This is a first-person, MF, spicy, second-chance, hate-to-love romance with mafia, motorcyle club and secret society vibes that is only suitable for ages 18+ and above. This series contains elements that may be unsettling for readers so please read the trigger warnings in the preface and a note from the author. It does contain mature language, explicit/graphic scenes, and darker elements that will progress with the series. If you have any questions please reach out to the author.

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 23, 2024

62 people are currently reading
181 people want to read

About the author

Anne Roman

14 books86 followers
Anne Roman is the author of suspenseful and thrilling romance novels. Her books are fast-paced, steamy, and will leave you on the edge of your seat! When not writing, Anne can be found at home with her kids, pets, and a husband who still sweeps her off her feet.

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5 stars
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47 (13%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
Profile Image for Reading  With April.
301 reviews148 followers
November 26, 2024
This story has me saying wtf in a good way just like first book. Ugh, that cliffhanger, though 😲
I'm ready for more Cade Black, though 🖤
Profile Image for Krystal Baggett.
1 review
December 3, 2024
Kept me coming back for more!!!!

GREAT read!!! I love the story line and how it relates the past with the present. The spiciness was on point too, as usual. Anne Roman outdid herself on this one!
Profile Image for Michelle #michellebookishmeltdowns.
182 reviews116 followers
November 24, 2024
I.. absolutely… LOVED THIS BOOK. I enjoyed book 1, but this one was easy 5/5 stars.

Contemporary, MF, Cade Black my loorrrrrdddd 🤌🏻🤌🏻 The spice and smut in this is delicious and perfectly placed. From start to finish I was intrigued, captivated and NEVER bored.

The character growth and relationship development was everything I wanted for Cade and Juniper. They both have their moments of vulnerability and strength and the way Cade would (and does) make sure she’s always safe melts my heart.

The twists and turns, the action and storyline all made this book such a great read.

THE CLIFFFFFHAAANNGGEERRRRRR *throws kindle crosses the room and yells at author* 🤣

Love love loved this. I need book 3 stat.
Profile Image for Yumi Webb.
5 reviews
January 16, 2025
While I’m very much enjoying this series, there were some editing errors I just couldn’t see past. I’m not sure if it was the formatting to kindle, but there were many times I was confused as to who was talking due to the lack of paragraph breaks and clarity. There was even one point where it switches from first person to third person in a sentence. I personally felt one more editing process could’ve brought this book to 5 stars. Also, while I love a cliffhanger ending, this one felt far too abrupt. It could’ve been the end of “part one” instead of the whole book. That being said, I will definitely read the next book in the future, as I’m growing fond of the characters.
Profile Image for Amanda Gustin.
6 reviews
January 17, 2025
This book actually pissed me off, I want to physically throw hands with the author for leaving us like that and with no book 3??? Blasphemy
Profile Image for Trish.
180 reviews10 followers
January 21, 2025
OMFG you can't just leave it on a cliffhanger like that! 😭😭😭😭
Profile Image for turningthepageswithangela.
257 reviews26 followers
November 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

I couldn’t put it down! There is the perfect amount of spice and suspense- making this one a very fast read. I am loving this series and can’t wait to find out what happens next!!
120 reviews3 followers
March 26, 2025
Juniper and Cade: The Ticking Time Bomb We've Been Waiting For!

Fans rejoice! Juniper is officially back and building a vibrant new life. But let's be honest, the real excitement lies in the inevitable collision with Cade. After all this time apart, their reunion is already proving to be explosive, and judging by this latest installment, we're in for a wild ride.

Juniper's new business venture is a welcome sight, a testament to her resilience and ambition. Yet, despite her best efforts to focus on the future, the past – in the undeniably potent form of Cade – keeps creeping back in. He's still described as the brooding, irresistible figure we remember, and his knack for appearing at the most inconvenient moments (like, say, her business meetings) adds fuel to the already crackling fire.

The tension is palpable. With Juniper and Cade back in the same town, their chemistry is a ticking time bomb. Every encounter is laced with unsaid words, lingering glances, and the weight of history. The author expertly crafts this simmering anticipation, making us desperate to see what happens when they finally confront their unresolved feelings.

But the drama doesn't stop there. It's hinted that Juniper and Cade's rekindled proximity is only one piece of a much larger, more dangerous puzzle. Other secrets lurk beneath the surface, waiting to detonate with far greater force. This adds a layer of suspense that keeps you hooked, constantly guessing what shocking revelations are yet to come.

And just when you think you've absorbed all the surprises, the final page drops a bombshell. A completely new storyline emerges, twisting the narrative in a way that will leave you breathless and clamoring for more. It's a brilliant move, one that promises an even more complex and captivating journey ahead.

This latest chapter is an absolute triumph. It delivers on the promise of a compelling reunion, while simultaneously raising the stakes with intriguing new mysteries. I, for one, am already counting down the days (whether patiently or impatiently remains to be seen!) until the next installment. Get ready, because Juniper and Cade are back, and this story is about to explode!
540 reviews10 followers
December 18, 2024
Pretty In The Dark by Anne Roman is a captivating contemporary dark romance that grips you from the start. Juniper is fiercely determined to protect herself and her loved ones from Edmund, a man she was raised to believe was her father. Alongside her newly discovered brother Kage, she embarks on a mission for vengeance against those who murdered her parents. As Juniper reconnects with Cade, the tension between them ignites the possibility of a second chance at love.

This book is a thrilling ride—fast-paced with relentless action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The characters are compelling and complex. Juniper shines as a badass heroine, shrouded in mystery, while Cade embodies the perfect morally gray hero. He's willing to go to extreme lengths, including torture and murder, to protect what's his—Juniper. His vulnerability adds depth as he grapples with the fear of losing her once she uncovers the truth about his dark past.

The intrigue is relentless; just when one question is answered, new mysteries emerge. If you love dark contemporary second-chance romances, Pretty In The Dark is an absolute must-read! Anne Roman masterfully weaves together thrills and mystery while delivering plenty of sizzling chemistry and steamy scenes that will leave you reaching for a fan. This book is part of a series, and I will be waiting for the next book in the series to drop. I am officially hooked, and if the writing in this series is an indicator, I will undoubtedly be reading more works by Ann Roman.
Profile Image for Amanda Bainbridge.
23 reviews1 follower
January 4, 2025
Firstly I’d like to say thank you for putting in the brief description of book one. Was a great reminder before starting this one. You could just use that and read the second one on its own but personally I’d advise reading the first book then this one. I’m trying to give this review without spoilers which is hard 🤔😊
So many plot twists and cliffhangers that I can only say wow bring on the next one. The way the author writes the story is unlike any other I’ve actually read. You think you have got the storyline sussed but in reality it’s the opposite because the author manages to give plenty of wtf is happening moments.

The characters have so many things to deal with throughout the book that I honestly wasn’t sure which way the story was going to go next. This is such a journey the MMC and FMC are on - you feel so many emotions for them. It’s brilliant the way these books are written. The first book introduces the characters and their backgrounds which I thoroughly enjoyed but I think this second one is better as goes in depth a bit more following Juniper and Cade trying to cope with one thing after another. So many ups and downs but that ending!!!! Wow. Yes Anne Roman I think I need both a hug and a bandaid after reading this book. Roll on the next one. Read this everyone. You won’t be disappointed as it’s fast paced great storylines and characters. Enjoy ☺️
Profile Image for Kimberly.
834 reviews32 followers
December 1, 2024
Pretty in the Dark by Anne Roman is book two in the Dark and Wild Series. I will say this book isn’t a standalone and you do have to read them in order as this picks up right after the first book. Also I’ll mention checking content warnings just to be on the safe side. But holy smokes what a great read, I finished it in a matter of a few hours. I couldn’t stop reading it! I love this world but more than anything I love these characters… Juniper and Cade. She’s independent, strong and doesn’t let people get the best of her. He’s just… I don’t have words for Cade but I absolutely love/dig him. I enjoyed reading their interactions. But what I enjoyed the most was Juniper being willing to not only face her past and what’s happening now… I couldn’t get enough of it. I’m so curious about her brother and I’m curious where the story will go. Much came to light in this book but there’s still many secrets that are shrouded in shadows. Just when I think I have a handle on things…boom… it pivots in a new direction. It’s a perfect blend of dark and light. I thought it was written so well to the point I was addicted to the story. I will say it does end in a cliffhanger so I’m absolutely looking forward to book three. I would highly recommend…

Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Profile Image for TXBRITGAL.
1,439 reviews33 followers
November 29, 2024
Dangerously good ❤...

Once again I loved diving into this adrenaline filled world. Secrets were revealed, and danger lurked in the shadows as the past came calling. These characters are delicious. I couldn't get enough of Juniper. She definitely takes no prisoners. Our FMC is her own woman, and refuses to let others rule her life. Good luck since two alpha males have now entered the pic lol (one romantic + one familial).

• Found Family
• Secret Societies
• Multi POV
• Enemies to Lovers
• Second Chance

Trust is definitely a theme within these exciting pages. Juniper + Cade already have major (well deserved) trust issues, and are learning how to trust each other again. Then we throw Kage into the mix? Add to that a few twists and turns along the way...suffice to say trust is a work in progress for everyone. It will be much needed for what's ahead. Overall a truly exciting read that had me glued til the very last page!!!

Prepare now and buckle up for a jaw dropping cliffhanger. It left me speechless. I truly didn't see it coming, and I loved it! This one will have you at the edge of your seat. Well worth the price of admission🎫.
Profile Image for Daniele Stephenson.
197 reviews1 follower
December 4, 2024
This second book has just been absolutely amazing. We are learning more about Juniper and her real parents. As it unfolds though I have some many questions about what is going on and I’m excited to see some are being answered and I am hoping this continues on into the next book. I loved seeing Juniper and Cade starting to trust each other and open up. I know Cade was really worried about Juniper learning more about him but it seems she is taking everything really well. I have enjoyed seeing more interactions with them and just love how he takes care of her younger brother. I was shocked at the reveal of who her older brother was but I am loving seeing them interact with each other and am excited to see more. The end was a huge bombshell of twists and info and a shocking reveal and I’m am so excited to see what happens in our next book. I am loving where this story line is going and was not expecting this when I first started the series. I don’t want to say what it is and give away any surprises to the readers but I think it is an exciting twist to the story line and give it the mystery that is keeping me wanting more
Profile Image for JackaayReadsallday .
795 reviews18 followers
January 1, 2025
AHHHHHHHHHHH THAT CLIFFHNAGER!!!! Ma’am 👀 I’m going to need book 3 asap please and thank you. That was absolutely not the person I was expecting to show up at the very end of the book. And I don’t know if I’m sad or happy but I am definitely confused… The FMC and mmc have gone through so much in their short lives that these twist and turns, while awesome and make the book that much better make my heart hurt so much! I swear sometimes I think Cafe just needs a good karate chop to the throat… but then I understand why he has the difficulties that he’s currently facing because of past trauma… So I get it and he’s doing great as far as character development and growth goes… But goodness gracious these two are sometimes very water and oil. But I do love when they are good together. I’m hoping there’s no more back-and-forth in the third book because that would make me mad… To get through the third book I feel like they’re gonna need to be a cohesive unit… And the brother… The brother! Can’t wait for more information about that… Do we get a book of his own?
374 reviews5 followers
November 25, 2024
Dark and wild

Juniper and Cade are back! And it seems that as soon as Juniper gains an answer...three more questions pop up. So be prepared.

I love that Cade and Juniper have the same off the chart chemistry. Cade is determined to protect Juniper and she is determined to get the truth from him. Along with answers about who she truly is. She knows that Edmund is still out there and she needs to figure out what he wants her for. Plus, she needs to protect Dean from him too.

I liked Kage being a big part of this book. I'm not sure what his motives are as far as Juniper is concerned. This definitely adds to the suspense in this storyline. Although I do think he is very happy that he finally found her. There are just a ton of twists and turns throughout Pretty In The Dark.

An unexpected surprise is at the very end and it makes me wonder how it's going to work into the next book. I guessed we'll see.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
520 reviews15 followers
November 25, 2024
Damn it, I should have known to expect another wild insane cliffhanger. But was I prepared for what happened at the end? HELL NO!
Whoooo what a ride.
This picks up right where we left off in Pretty When You Lie, and it takes off like a wild flame in a forest.
Cade and Juniper...let's just say they add sparks, no gasoline, to the fire. They are just 🔥
The spice in this one definitely picks up and continues throughout perfectly balanced with the mysterious events unfolding around Juniper and her life she has no clue about.
I definitely wasn't expecting the secrets we were revealed about to be what they were. Talk about mind blown.
And Kage, tell me whyyyyyy I like him. Whyyyy I'd trust him, though I probably shouldn't. 😅
But back to Cade. Absolutely love him. Just the way he loves Juniper is just so sweet, overbearing at times..crazy too, but come on...sweet, for us dark romamce lovers anyways. 🤣

Couldn't get enough of this book. Simply devouring it. Which I'm finding to be very easy to do with Anne's books. She just has a way to hook you in and keep you entertained, wanting more, and than leaving our jaws on the floor in shock with her cliffhangers. It never fails.
I can't wait till book 3.

Thank you Anne for allowing me to arc read this. 🫶🏻
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,772 reviews29 followers
December 8, 2024
Book Two of the Dark and Wild series delivers just as good as the first one. I tell you I am loving how this series is playing out. Anne is doing such an amazing job with this series. Becoming one of my favorite. So I would recommend that you read the series in order as this second one picks up right where book one leaves off. Be aware there could be some warnings about triggers to be aware of. I have none so it was not an issue for me. The characters are just wow!!! I love them so much. Juniper and Cade are such a good couple. With her being so strong and he is what every girl wants. They both have some things to deal with and reading their interactions together, I swear I finished this book in 3 hours. I know I had the vibe of do not disturb. I wanted, no needed to finish and find out what happened next. There is a cliffhanger, and I really need the next book now. Would 100 percent recommend this series.
Profile Image for Lory.
3,276 reviews33 followers
November 29, 2024
Dangerously Good – A Thrilling Ride!

Once again, I couldn’t get enough of this adrenaline-charged world. Secrets unfold, and danger lurks in the shadows as the past resurfaces, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The characters are absolutely delicious, but none more so than Juniper. She’s fierce, unapologetic, and takes no prisoners. Our heroine is fiercely independent and refuses to let anyone dictate her life, even as two alpha males—one romantic and one familial—enter the picture. Talk about a power struggle!

The book strikes the perfect balance of spice and suspense, making it a fast-paced, unputdownable read. I’m absolutely hooked on this series and cannot wait to see what happens next. That cliffhanger ending? Brutal!

As always, my reviews are voluntary and unbiased, with no monetary compensation received. All opinions are completely my own.
Profile Image for Monique.
908 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2024
I love it when an author, in the preface, give a warning about the cliffhanger ending that you just know you hate but love but hate?! Yeah...
So, this one was WILD. A great follow-up book but, wowza, twists and turns for days.
Short review, because I worry anything I will write will be a spoiler! Take those trigger warnings seriously.
If you are sensitive to...some things... this may not be the book for you. However, it is well-written and tastefully done. I trust this author to take me to deeper and darker places.
Love me some character development and personal growth!!! Incredible characters, storyline, and did I mention plot twists?
Gah, just read it in order for it to make sense.
Love it. But also did get a teeny tiny little bit frustrated. The epitome of love-hate, amirite?!
Profile Image for Holly Rife.
504 reviews8 followers
December 7, 2024
Cade Black is back and I. Am. So. Here. For. It.

There are so many secrets to uncover and everyone is hiding something. Juniper and Cade continue to learn more about the past and each other during the time they were separated. This book is full throttle, pedal to the metal, suspense from cover to cover and it is amazing!!! They also realize they must learn about the past history to figure out the dangers of the present. Their chemistry is 🔥 🔥 🔥 and out of control!!

If you haven't read ‘Pretty When You Lie', do that first as this isn't a standalone. Please heed the content warnings at the beginning of the book dear ones.

Mysteries lurk around the corner and I am waiting on pins and needles for the next book!!!!!
Profile Image for Erica.
327 reviews4 followers
December 11, 2024
I was so excited to get back to Juniper and Cade's story! Book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off and there was even a recap of book 1! I love the recaps!

There are so many twists and turns in this story. It can be difficult to figure out what is coming. Getting a little bit more of Juniper's brother was fun. He seems super scary but I don't think Juniper really cares, she just gives him h-ll and I love it.

The relationship between Juniper and Cade is so good. She gives as good as she gets and the chemistry between them is great. I love that they didn't have as much push and pull this time.

The ending... I ended up yelling and almost threw my phone! The ending came out of left field. I did NOT see it coming and I have so many questions.
Profile Image for Amber K.
292 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2025
*SCREAMS* What the fuuuck was that ending. And HOW LONG until the next one?! Eff, I hoped this was the final book. Ahhhhh, I need more!

I love the crazy this story keeps giving, it's Wild (pun intended 🤭).

QUOTES OF COURSE:

“There’s not a lock, door or gate that could keep me from getting to you, Juniper Wild. Trust me on that.” “I can’t decide if that's romantic or creepy.”

"This Juniper was something new, something different. There was a darkness in her that I’d never seen before, and damn if it didn’t appeal to the darkness inside of me. It made me want to test it, to push the boundaries and see how far she’d go. How far she’d let me go."

“What gave you the impression I wanted someone in a suit? Quit talking and fucking wreck me.”

"Hello, son."
Profile Image for TheSugaredBookworm.
711 reviews16 followers
December 5, 2024
So many twists and turns!

Buckle up because this story got even twistier than book 1. I read it one sitting because I needed to know! Juniper is discovering more and more of her family's secrets. Along the way, she's also learning more about Cade. There's so much more than you can even anticipate and the mystery will have you on the edge of your seat. I love the chemistry between Juniper and Cade, but I especially love how he realizes that she really sees him. Juniper sees Cade's darkness and isn't shying away. If anything, he's finally seeing the real Juniper. She's fierce! I can't wait for more because that cliffy was epic!!
Profile Image for Kira.
1,673 reviews
December 5, 2024
We are back with Cade and Juniper in this dark enemies-to-lovers romance that brought reader's to the edge of their seat in book 1 and is keeping us there throughout book 2! Pretty in the Dark dives deeper into their relationship as they begin to accept one another more and more. This allows them to come to a better understanding of what happened in their past, so they can focus on their future. Beyond the relationship part of the story itself, readers are guided through so many crazy twists and turns before leading to one of the craziest book endings! It definitely has me highly anticipating book 3!
Profile Image for DMCechak.
1,795 reviews25 followers
December 18, 2024
Pretty in the Dark - Cade & Juniper

‘She’d been trying to tell me all this time. All those years ago she’d been trying to show me who she really was, and I’d blindly ignored it. But she’d seen me. She’d known who I was all along and accepted me.’

Anne Roman continues Juniper’s incredible story as she attempts to keep her brother safe from her father while moving away from the man she loves with her whole being.

This story hearts your heart, as we are privy to the pain characters are causing , all in the name of keeping others safe. But one secrets are shared, new insight gives them the opportunity to work together towards their love.
Profile Image for XxLaVampiresaAlexisxX.
1,168 reviews80 followers
January 1, 2025
Pretty in the Dark is the second book in the Dark and Wild series. The first book MUST be read and this also ends in a cliffhanger.

You have:
MF
Second-chance
Hate-to-love
Mafia
MC
Secret society
Romeo/Juliet vibes
Family Betrayals
Cliffhanger


It's been a hot minute since I've read this series, but thankfully Anne Roman gave us a little recap (seriously, extra brownie points for that!). I had forgotten how emotionally invested I was with this series. Juniper and Cade's chemistry is fiiiiire!!! Just when I think some questions are answered and then I get thrown into a loop once more. And that cliffhanger!! Definitely looking forward to reading more!
397 reviews
January 8, 2025
A twisting dark romance that will have you asking more questions as the pages turn but when you get some of the answers you may wish you hadn’t been present to hear them. The chemistry between Cade and Juniper returns to full steam in this book and truthfully I can’t get enough of them. As Juniper finds out more about her family she also learns more about Cade while Cade finally comes to see who she truly is too. An approximate three hour read that keeps you turning those pages through a dark and dangerous world but be prepared to be left wanting to know more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for June.
779 reviews2 followers
July 29, 2025
Ooh so good. Another great cliffhanger! You’re left with so many questions and wanting to keep reading. Lots of mystery, suspense and so many feels. I am loving Cade, he’s a true alpha male that’s totally obsessed with Juniper. The way he loves and protects her is swoon worthy! Juniper has grown more feisty and independent in this book, love how she’s keeping the alpha males in her life on their toes and not taking their shit. Talking about makes in her life I’d love to learn more about Kage, so much mystery there. Loving this dark world and the characters in it. Can’t believe I have to wait to next year for the next book 😭.
Profile Image for Amanda Schumacher.
301 reviews12 followers
November 23, 2024
Pretty Girl.. I love you..

I loved this next chapter in this series and it's phenomenal. Cade has hardly been around as he's watching out for Juniper from the shadows. She starts to discover pictures of her mom, who she thought was her dad and two other men including Cade's father. She is determined to take care of herself and her little brother however; he's been struggling in school and has been accepted into a program. During her meeting; it's revealed that Cade has paid the expenses for Dean to go to this academy. Juniper has puzzle pieces that don't fit together very well... but soon she will start getting answers... starting with meeting her older brother Kage.. this is a turning point for Juniper and she is not willing to back down on her quest to figure out everything and finally put the big picture together. She tells Cade in no uncertain terms that she will face the shadows and darkness in him and in the world he works within. They confess their feelings for each other and start taking steps together along with her big brother.

what will Juniper find in her search for information? Can she trust her new brother? What other secrets has everyone been hiding?
Profile Image for Dominique.
1,070 reviews7 followers
November 29, 2024
Pretty In The Dark is the second book in the Dark and Wild series that follows Juniper and Cade. The series title definitely fits as this book is like a roller-coaster I didn't want to get off of. It's easy to say that I didn't want to put this book down for numerous reasons. Cade is *chef's kiss*. Juniper is determined to connect all of the dots. This book provided a few answers but left so many open. I'm not sure I mind since I'm thoroughly enjoying the ride. Now just to pretend that cliffhanger didn't happen and wait not so patiently for what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews

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