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His Perfect Darkness #2
Darkest Before Dawn
For years I’ve dreamt of my own death. Not any details, just the feel of an explosion, of sparks and smoke blasting into my face. Pain and the sensation of falling.
Love feels like that. Maybe not for everyone, but to me, it feels like dying.
As I face my death, I hold onto that. My life may be bookended by pain and tragedy but there was a moment when I was loved and I loved in return.
In the end, nothing else matters.
Darkest Before Dawn is a dark romance with intense, sensual themes. It is book 2 in the His Perfect Darkness duet and the resolution of Rex and Inara's story.
Love feels like that. Maybe not for everyone, but to me, it feels like dying.
As I face my death, I hold onto that. My life may be bookended by pain and tragedy but there was a moment when I was loved and I loved in return.
In the end, nothing else matters.
Darkest Before Dawn is a dark romance with intense, sensual themes. It is book 2 in the His Perfect Darkness duet and the resolution of Rex and Inara's story.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 24, 2025
82 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Lee Savino
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
July 26, 2025
5⭐️
3.5🌶️
🔥Dark Billiionaire
🔥BDSM
🔥Kinky Batman
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🔥Vigilante
🔥Possessive Hero
🔥Detective/Profiler FMC
Darkest Before Dawn is book two in the duet His Perfect Darkness. This is a rollercoaster of mystery, suspense, and spice. After the cliffhanger of the first book, Inara is shaken with the news that the serial unaliver BK is back and is after her. Rex wants Inara to be safe and doesn’t want her to work the case. His need to control everything and keep her safe drives him to lock he her up in his manor. With some help she convinces him that she has to work the case, its who she is. Since he can’t keep her locked up he does something that he knows will give her the best security available in New Rome, his last name. She knows she’s getting close to solving the case, she just has to piece the puzzle together. There are more great Batman references and super cool tech. Inara and Rex are strong characters that also show their vulnerable sides, but only to each other. Inara needs his help to carry the weight and allow herself to fly free. Rex needs someone to know and understand the real him. The combination of the intense chase of a serial unaliver and the romance between Inara and Rex make for an exciting and spicy good time.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading
Thank you to Lee Savino and The Author Agency for the ARC.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads 🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“It’s official. I’ve put my trust in a self-driving car to escape a billionaire who’s obsessed with me. What is my life?”
“All my obsession, all my intense feelings add up to one thing. Love.”
“The sneak approach, the disappearing act at the end. I have a touch of theater kid in me.”
“And when you leave this Earth, I’ll chase you. I’ll follow you into the darkness, and we’ll be together.”
“So I did die on the roof. The old Inara is gone, and I am reborn. And I’m no longer afraid.”
3.5🌶️
🔥Dark Billiionaire
🔥BDSM
🔥Kinky Batman
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🔥Vigilante
🔥Possessive Hero
🔥Detective/Profiler FMC
Darkest Before Dawn is book two in the duet His Perfect Darkness. This is a rollercoaster of mystery, suspense, and spice. After the cliffhanger of the first book, Inara is shaken with the news that the serial unaliver BK is back and is after her. Rex wants Inara to be safe and doesn’t want her to work the case. His need to control everything and keep her safe drives him to lock he her up in his manor. With some help she convinces him that she has to work the case, its who she is. Since he can’t keep her locked up he does something that he knows will give her the best security available in New Rome, his last name. She knows she’s getting close to solving the case, she just has to piece the puzzle together. There are more great Batman references and super cool tech. Inara and Rex are strong characters that also show their vulnerable sides, but only to each other. Inara needs his help to carry the weight and allow herself to fly free. Rex needs someone to know and understand the real him. The combination of the intense chase of a serial unaliver and the romance between Inara and Rex make for an exciting and spicy good time.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading
Thank you to Lee Savino and The Author Agency for the ARC.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads 🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“It’s official. I’ve put my trust in a self-driving car to escape a billionaire who’s obsessed with me. What is my life?”
“All my obsession, all my intense feelings add up to one thing. Love.”
“The sneak approach, the disappearing act at the end. I have a touch of theater kid in me.”
“And when you leave this Earth, I’ll chase you. I’ll follow you into the darkness, and we’ll be together.”
“So I did die on the roof. The old Inara is gone, and I am reborn. And I’m no longer afraid.”
Currently reading
May 27, 2025“Rex, you can’t go around killing people who annoy you.”
“Can’t I?”
“Can’t I?”
January 4, 2026
loved the conclusion.
Book 2 picks up exactly where book 1 left off and i love when authors do that. It felt like i was reading 1 book and not two separate ones. The mmc continues to be extremely obsessed but i did appreciate that he knew when to back off even though he just wanted to keep her safe. The conclusion with the stalker felt rushed to me but i liked the twist nonetheless. Definitely exploring more from this author in the future!
Book 2 picks up exactly where book 1 left off and i love when authors do that. It felt like i was reading 1 book and not two separate ones. The mmc continues to be extremely obsessed but i did appreciate that he knew when to back off even though he just wanted to keep her safe. The conclusion with the stalker felt rushed to me but i liked the twist nonetheless. Definitely exploring more from this author in the future!
August 7, 2025
“Batman” Rex turned out to be even kinkier than i thought,and i love him!
Rex and Inara were perfect for eachother,they were the only ones to understand what the other had gone through.
And in Darkest Before Dawn it became clear what that was,and how it affected them.
Having struggled throughout life after,they both felt lonely,and both needed someone to give them a reason to live.
And they found that….the need to be close was already there,but their relationship really grew once they opened up to eachother.
Once they trusted eachother enough to share their deepest secrets.
This second part of the duet is the most emotional one,even with all the action,and the delicious kink, that was going on.
The balance between all that was well done,and i enjoyed the pace in which everything unfolded.
Inara wanted to be part of the police’s investigation into the Bondage Killer,but would Rex allow her to leave his house?
If you know Rex by now,you can guess the answer….right?
But,if you know Inara,you can guess what she did….right? Lol
Caging her is the fastest way to make her hate him,but at least she’d be alive to do it….and Rex is desperate enough to make that decision.
Hamish,his stubborn butler,thinks differently….he knows it’s wrong!
But at least he’s smart enough to call Rex’s partner at club Empire,St.James,before setting her free.
Even if that might cost him his job…..
Inara NEEDS to be part of the hunt for the BK,but it’s costing her….
Not only do the visions haunt her,no….knowing she has to let the only person that understands her through and through go,is killing her.
But she refuses to lose another person to the killer!
Does Rex agree? You know the answer,and his solution is só good!
In the end,they agree to work together because Rex has the better recources.
And because his “friends” have better connections to find the killer.
Does this mean it’s easy? Do they catch the BK quickly,and without any problems?
Well…..it turns out to be a lot tougher than it looked.
And it doesn’t end there….
So,will they find their happy after? The one they both deserve,só much?
Find out for yourself,i dare you!
Rex and Inara were perfect for eachother,they were the only ones to understand what the other had gone through.
And in Darkest Before Dawn it became clear what that was,and how it affected them.
Having struggled throughout life after,they both felt lonely,and both needed someone to give them a reason to live.
And they found that….the need to be close was already there,but their relationship really grew once they opened up to eachother.
Once they trusted eachother enough to share their deepest secrets.
This second part of the duet is the most emotional one,even with all the action,and the delicious kink, that was going on.
The balance between all that was well done,and i enjoyed the pace in which everything unfolded.
Inara wanted to be part of the police’s investigation into the Bondage Killer,but would Rex allow her to leave his house?
If you know Rex by now,you can guess the answer….right?
But,if you know Inara,you can guess what she did….right? Lol
Caging her is the fastest way to make her hate him,but at least she’d be alive to do it….and Rex is desperate enough to make that decision.
Hamish,his stubborn butler,thinks differently….he knows it’s wrong!
But at least he’s smart enough to call Rex’s partner at club Empire,St.James,before setting her free.
Even if that might cost him his job…..
Inara NEEDS to be part of the hunt for the BK,but it’s costing her….
Not only do the visions haunt her,no….knowing she has to let the only person that understands her through and through go,is killing her.
But she refuses to lose another person to the killer!
Does Rex agree? You know the answer,and his solution is só good!
In the end,they agree to work together because Rex has the better recources.
And because his “friends” have better connections to find the killer.
Does this mean it’s easy? Do they catch the BK quickly,and without any problems?
Well…..it turns out to be a lot tougher than it looked.
And it doesn’t end there….
So,will they find their happy after? The one they both deserve,só much?
Find out for yourself,i dare you!
July 23, 2025
Our kinky Batman and his detective are back. And the tension between Rex and Inara is just as strong. But now the BK killer is back and he is determined to keep her safe, but she is stubborn and she wants to take him down. These two are very broken and don’t know exactly how to love or how to have a “normal” relationship. They care about one another and have a very a strong bond and a sexual connection that is very dark and spicy. But sometimes he goes about things all the wrong way.
Inara is struggling because she continues to have visions, but she doesn’t share this little secret with anyone. It’s a part of her that she doesn’t let anyone know about. It’s a secret she’s kept in for years and holds against herself for the death of her family. Rex knows she is hiding something and wants to drag it out of her, but doesn’t want to push too far. Even though he always seems to go to the extreme. These two always seem to find themselves in the middle of a dangerous disaster, explosion or a murder.
Rex wants to protect Inara at all costs, even if it means locking her away. He would do anything for her and sometimes he has a hard time knowing what the limits are. He calls her his little bird and even threatens her with caging, like I said, these two have some kinky fetishes.
The book is dark, it’s very erotic, full of BDSM, lots of twists, and had me begging for more because I needed to know what was happening next.
5⭐️
4🌶️
Inara is struggling because she continues to have visions, but she doesn’t share this little secret with anyone. It’s a part of her that she doesn’t let anyone know about. It’s a secret she’s kept in for years and holds against herself for the death of her family. Rex knows she is hiding something and wants to drag it out of her, but doesn’t want to push too far. Even though he always seems to go to the extreme. These two always seem to find themselves in the middle of a dangerous disaster, explosion or a murder.
Rex wants to protect Inara at all costs, even if it means locking her away. He would do anything for her and sometimes he has a hard time knowing what the limits are. He calls her his little bird and even threatens her with caging, like I said, these two have some kinky fetishes.
The book is dark, it’s very erotic, full of BDSM, lots of twists, and had me begging for more because I needed to know what was happening next.
5⭐️
4🌶️
July 11, 2025
Oh babygirl… buckle up, because this book didn’t just take me on a ride—it slammed me into the backseat of a blacked-out luxury car with tinted morals and a man behind the wheel who doesn’t believe in brakes. 😮💨🖤
When the author said “morally grey,” she wasn’t playing. This man isn’t fifty shades—he’s one shade, whatever the color is just before black. Like “watching Gotham burn while he smirks from the shadows” black. It would be easy to make a comparison to Batman on this one… But I feel I would be remiss in noting that Inara was giving Dr. Harley Quinn and Rex was giving The Joker if he was morally grey and obsessed with HQ…
Yeah. That it’s that dark. And I was feral for it. 👏
The storytelling? Sharp. Twisted. Deliciously layered. Even the side characters had flavor. But our dark darling? He’s always ten steps ahead. Calculated, unhinged, devastatingly in control, and the FMC? Sweet thing never stood a chance. She knows he's dangerous. She knows he's a walking red flag in designer armor. But guess what? So do we. And we still melt for him!
As for the ending… when their pasts snap together like a lock clicking shut? I felt something. Warm. Human. And I’m not sure what that says about me. 🙃
Highly recommend if you're into shadow-drenched vigilantes, emotional damage, and a man who calls the shots and makes you thank him for it. Check your trigger warnings and brace yourself, love. Book 2 Darkest Before Dawn drops July 24th and I’m already sharpening my claws. 😈📚
When the author said “morally grey,” she wasn’t playing. This man isn’t fifty shades—he’s one shade, whatever the color is just before black. Like “watching Gotham burn while he smirks from the shadows” black. It would be easy to make a comparison to Batman on this one… But I feel I would be remiss in noting that Inara was giving Dr. Harley Quinn and Rex was giving The Joker if he was morally grey and obsessed with HQ…
Yeah. That it’s that dark. And I was feral for it. 👏
The storytelling? Sharp. Twisted. Deliciously layered. Even the side characters had flavor. But our dark darling? He’s always ten steps ahead. Calculated, unhinged, devastatingly in control, and the FMC? Sweet thing never stood a chance. She knows he's dangerous. She knows he's a walking red flag in designer armor. But guess what? So do we. And we still melt for him!
As for the ending… when their pasts snap together like a lock clicking shut? I felt something. Warm. Human. And I’m not sure what that says about me. 🙃
Highly recommend if you're into shadow-drenched vigilantes, emotional damage, and a man who calls the shots and makes you thank him for it. Check your trigger warnings and brace yourself, love. Book 2 Darkest Before Dawn drops July 24th and I’m already sharpening my claws. 😈📚
July 25, 2025
The His Perfect Darkness duet wrecked me in the best possible way, and the conclusion, Darkest Before Dawn, delivered everything I hoped for—and then some. Fair warning: this duet is addictive. And yes, you absolutely need to start with His Perfect Darkness for the full experience. Trust me... you want the descent before you taste the dawn.
I devoured all 700+ pages in record time. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the shadows. Lee Savino created a dark, twisted world where obsession tangles with devotion and danger licks at the edge of every desire. And I was 100% here for it.
The pacing? Sheer perfection. Relentless and gripping without ever feeling rushed. Just when I thought I could breathe, the tension spiked again—whether it was an emotional gut punch or a scene so scorching it left me blushing and begging for more. (Let’s just say this book definitely earns all four chili peppers. 🔥)
Rex and Inara are unforgettable. Their chemistry, their intensity, the way they felt inevitable (even if it was by design)... it was masterfully done. Their dynamic is chaos and control in the most delicious way—built on fierce loyalty, raw vulnerability, and that magnetic pull that makes you forget how to blink. And beneath all the blistering heat is a surprisingly tender emotional thread that tightens with every page. Rex and his Swallow are equal parts broken, brutal, and breathtaking, and it was so fulfilling to watch them find a kind of healing in each other.
And Lee Savino’s writing? Chef’s kiss. This duet was my first by her, and I downloaded another the second I finished. Her modern, kinky Batman-style vigilante romance—with real emotional depth? I devoured it… and immediately came back for seconds.
If you’re craving something dark, smart, SPICY, and completely unputdownable, His Perfect Darkness and Darkest Before Dawn need to go on your list. Just make sure your Kindle’s charged… and your safe word’s ready. (Though honestly? You might want your SO on standby instead. 😏)
Story: 4.5⭐
Spice: 4🌶️
Genre:
🖤Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤Dark Billionaire
🖤Kinky Batman
🖤BDSM
🖤Stalker
🖤Enemies to Lovers
I devoured all 700+ pages in record time. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the shadows. Lee Savino created a dark, twisted world where obsession tangles with devotion and danger licks at the edge of every desire. And I was 100% here for it.
The pacing? Sheer perfection. Relentless and gripping without ever feeling rushed. Just when I thought I could breathe, the tension spiked again—whether it was an emotional gut punch or a scene so scorching it left me blushing and begging for more. (Let’s just say this book definitely earns all four chili peppers. 🔥)
Rex and Inara are unforgettable. Their chemistry, their intensity, the way they felt inevitable (even if it was by design)... it was masterfully done. Their dynamic is chaos and control in the most delicious way—built on fierce loyalty, raw vulnerability, and that magnetic pull that makes you forget how to blink. And beneath all the blistering heat is a surprisingly tender emotional thread that tightens with every page. Rex and his Swallow are equal parts broken, brutal, and breathtaking, and it was so fulfilling to watch them find a kind of healing in each other.
And Lee Savino’s writing? Chef’s kiss. This duet was my first by her, and I downloaded another the second I finished. Her modern, kinky Batman-style vigilante romance—with real emotional depth? I devoured it… and immediately came back for seconds.
If you’re craving something dark, smart, SPICY, and completely unputdownable, His Perfect Darkness and Darkest Before Dawn need to go on your list. Just make sure your Kindle’s charged… and your safe word’s ready. (Though honestly? You might want your SO on standby instead. 😏)
Story: 4.5⭐
Spice: 4🌶️
Genre:
🖤Dark Romance
Tropes:
🖤Dark Billionaire
🖤Kinky Batman
🖤BDSM
🖤Stalker
🖤Enemies to Lovers
July 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ — 4.5 / 5 Stars
Lee Savino wraps up this duet with Darkest Before Dawn, and what a finale it is. If book one was foreplay, this was the explosion. It was raw, chaotic, deeply emotional, and completely satisfying. Picking up right where His Perfect Darkness left off, we’re thrown right back into the high-stakes game between Inara, Rex, and the killer hunting her. The pace never lets up, the tension is delicious, and the line between love and obsession gets even blurrier.
Rex continues to be one of the most unhinged, possessive MMCs I’ve ever read and I loved every second of it. He doesn’t just toe the line between protector and predator; he burns the whole damn thing down. His need for Inara is intense, primal, and at times wildly unhealthy… but somehow it works. Inara, for her part, continues to walk that fine line between independence and surrender. Watching her open up and truly trust Rex, on her terms, was as beautiful as it was painful.
Their dynamic is a twisted, messy, beautifully earned evolution. The BDSM elements are not just spicy (and wow, they are 🔥) but emotionally resonant. There’s mutual care under every scene, even when things get rough. And trust me—they do get rough.
The mystery unfolds with just the right number of twists to keep you guessing, and I loved how Savino tied it all back to the emotional arcs of the characters. The ending gave me everything I wanted—closure, catharsis, and just enough room for future stories in this dark, delicious world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you Lee Savino and The Author Agency.
Lee Savino wraps up this duet with Darkest Before Dawn, and what a finale it is. If book one was foreplay, this was the explosion. It was raw, chaotic, deeply emotional, and completely satisfying. Picking up right where His Perfect Darkness left off, we’re thrown right back into the high-stakes game between Inara, Rex, and the killer hunting her. The pace never lets up, the tension is delicious, and the line between love and obsession gets even blurrier.
Rex continues to be one of the most unhinged, possessive MMCs I’ve ever read and I loved every second of it. He doesn’t just toe the line between protector and predator; he burns the whole damn thing down. His need for Inara is intense, primal, and at times wildly unhealthy… but somehow it works. Inara, for her part, continues to walk that fine line between independence and surrender. Watching her open up and truly trust Rex, on her terms, was as beautiful as it was painful.
Their dynamic is a twisted, messy, beautifully earned evolution. The BDSM elements are not just spicy (and wow, they are 🔥) but emotionally resonant. There’s mutual care under every scene, even when things get rough. And trust me—they do get rough.
The mystery unfolds with just the right number of twists to keep you guessing, and I loved how Savino tied it all back to the emotional arcs of the characters. The ending gave me everything I wanted—closure, catharsis, and just enough room for future stories in this dark, delicious world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you Lee Savino and The Author Agency.
July 25, 2025
I loved the first book in this duet and I was really looking forward to this one. And it did not disappoint. It was the perfect ending to their story, with the perfect amount of spice and plot. Just a warning there may be minor spoilers for book one but I’ll try to keep this as general as possible. This plot was so intense and had me on my toes. At one point I thought it was all over and everything was good but then… yep turns out there’s something missing from the real truth. The first part was pretty sad and frustrating, you can see them both struggling with their trauma which affects the way they handle relationships, especially Rex. Rex is your usual possessive morally grey alpha male but what happens when morally grey turns darker? Not my first rodeo with that trope so I wasn’t particularly surprised but I enjoyed it. I also love how their relationship took course, with them both going through major character development. It was so satisfying during that moment of truth where all the secrets were revealed and damn if I wasn’t very emotional. The murder mystery part of this plot was amazingly thrilling with so many unexpected plot twists. You never see the next one coming. The dom/sub BDSM that we see a lot in the first book comes back in the later chapters of this book, because yes Rex makes major mistakes and has to do a lot of grovelling. Both their stories are so sad, I was close to tears and seeing how they both need and rely on each other was so sweet. Especially Rex, that guy is the definition of “touch her and die”, but he can also be so sweet, loving and gentle to her. I had a fun time reading this book and I give it a 4/5
July 15, 2025
Darkest before Dawn is book two of the a new series, “His Perfect Darkness”, by Lee Savino. With this story, you get murder, mystery/suspense and a whole lotta spice! This book picks up right where book 1 ends… so from page 1 till the very end, you are on a dark roller coaster ride with many twists and turns... keeping you on the edge of your seat till the end.
She’s the detective... He’s a billionaire vigilante. Both are broken souls. Throw in a serial killer or two, some corruption and a mysterious Fraternitas…. Be ready for one epic, intense ride.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Rex Roy and Inara (Ramos) Roy
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 / 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = No. This is Book 2 of a duet.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Dark Romance • Erotica • Stalker • BDSM • Psychological/ Suspense • Dual POVs
The MMC: Billionaire, vigilante, morally grey, aka a Kinky Batman
The FMC: a Detective a psychic gift, tragic past,
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 = Language • Sexual Content • Violence, Murder, Assault, Death • Corruption • Childhood trauma • Predator & Prey
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She’s the detective... He’s a billionaire vigilante. Both are broken souls. Throw in a serial killer or two, some corruption and a mysterious Fraternitas…. Be ready for one epic, intense ride.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Rex Roy and Inara (Ramos) Roy
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 / 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = No. This is Book 2 of a duet.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Dark Romance • Erotica • Stalker • BDSM • Psychological/ Suspense • Dual POVs
The MMC: Billionaire, vigilante, morally grey, aka a Kinky Batman
The FMC: a Detective a psychic gift, tragic past,
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 = Language • Sexual Content • Violence, Murder, Assault, Death • Corruption • Childhood trauma • Predator & Prey
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 12, 2025
3.25 stars. This story is the second part of a duet, with the first part necessary for full understanding. It is mostly dual POV, heavily female lead (Inara), well written, and a dark, erotic, romantic suspense, Batman retelling. I sympathised with both Inara and Rex’s feelings. I enjoyed the active approach to the non-romance challenges. I enjoyed the depth of the relationship Inara and Rex, two very broken people, were able to establish. I struggled again to rate this story because it is truly well written and the story is fantastic but it is very dark for me. I have rated based on the way it made me feel. I recommend it for those who like a dark erotic BDSM romantic suspense.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
August 1, 2025
Darkest before Dawn is book 2 in the duet His Perfect Darkness.
In this book Rex and Inara’s story gets darker, deeper, and even more addictive. All the secrets that were hinted at in book 1 finally come to light and there were some twists I did not see coming.
The tension is stil there but this time you also feel how much love and understanding has grown between them. They truly balance each other, his dark, obsessive need meets her strength and sharp mind in a way that makes them perfect together.
If you enjoyed book 1, you’re going to devour this one!
In this book Rex and Inara’s story gets darker, deeper, and even more addictive. All the secrets that were hinted at in book 1 finally come to light and there were some twists I did not see coming.
The tension is stil there but this time you also feel how much love and understanding has grown between them. They truly balance each other, his dark, obsessive need meets her strength and sharp mind in a way that makes them perfect together.
If you enjoyed book 1, you’re going to devour this one!
February 9, 2026
A dark romance Batman style? I mean that is incredible. This book lives in my head rent free and I already feel the hangover from the sublime setting and the fiery chemistry. This was a psychological thriller mixed with dark romance.
I do not understand why EVERYONE is not raving about this series. So so so good. I adore Lee’s writing. I miss Inara and Rex so much already. The ending was so beautifully done. The spice was dialed back which I thought was so refreshing. The plot drove this beauty.
I do not understand why EVERYONE is not raving about this series. So so so good. I adore Lee’s writing. I miss Inara and Rex so much already. The ending was so beautifully done. The spice was dialed back which I thought was so refreshing. The plot drove this beauty.
December 3, 2025
love it 😍.
July 22, 2025
“Arguing with you is better than fucking anyone else.”
Okay, I stayed up wayyyy later than I should have, but I COULD NOT put this book down!! The action? The twists? The angst? THE SMUT?!? It was an absolutely perfect duet. I’m so blown away by Lee Savino’s storytelling, her writing never lets me down but this particularly felt remarkable. I can not wait to read more of her work in the world (New Rome) I had been in such a book hangover lately and boy did this solve that!
“Men will literally dress up in a bulletproof suit and run around being a vigilante instead of going to therapy.”
I know I’ve said it before about this duet but I am blown away by how correctly BDSM is represented. I often I read books and cringe at bad BDSM practices but this was such a spicy insight into a healthy impact play dynamic. 🥵❤️🔥
M/F
Kinky Batman
Strong female detective
Stalking
Vigilante
GOOD BDSM
flogging/impact play
Billionaire romance
Spice 5/5 (rare from me) 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay, I stayed up wayyyy later than I should have, but I COULD NOT put this book down!! The action? The twists? The angst? THE SMUT?!? It was an absolutely perfect duet. I’m so blown away by Lee Savino’s storytelling, her writing never lets me down but this particularly felt remarkable. I can not wait to read more of her work in the world (New Rome) I had been in such a book hangover lately and boy did this solve that!
“Men will literally dress up in a bulletproof suit and run around being a vigilante instead of going to therapy.”
I know I’ve said it before about this duet but I am blown away by how correctly BDSM is represented. I often I read books and cringe at bad BDSM practices but this was such a spicy insight into a healthy impact play dynamic. 🥵❤️🔥
M/F
Kinky Batman
Strong female detective
Stalking
Vigilante
GOOD BDSM
flogging/impact play
Billionaire romance
Spice 5/5 (rare from me) 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 9, 2025
This is the duet to His Perfect Darkness, it wraps up everything pretty well. I liked this one better than the first. I liked seeing Inara in the "bat suit" well the Roy suit as I've come to think of it. I liked seeing Rex more vulnerable about his feelings for Inara and not just his dom side. \
Overall good duet.
Overall good duet.
Read
August 26, 2025Tried this but I think I’m just not in the mood for BDSM book
July 30, 2025
'Darkest Before Dawn' is a dark billionaire romance with intense, sensual themes. It is book 2 in the His Perfect Darkness duet and the thrilling conclusion of Rex and Inara's story. It should be read after book 1- 'His Perfect Darkness'.
Rex is hot, unhinged, dominant billionaire. He is obsessed with Inara and wants to claim and posses her and he can go to any lengths to protect her. He can die and kill for her. Inara is a detective. She's strong, clever and resilient.
Rex and Inara both wanted to make city safe from dangers but both have different ways to achieve them. They both have darkness within and shares special bond from their dark past. Both are broken and lonely souls who finds solace in each other.
The chemistry between them is electric and magnetic. The emotions are feral and raw. The intimate scenes between them is so spicy 🌶️ and explosive🔥. The dom and sub dynamics are primal yet laced with vulnerability. It's about giving control of herself to him fully and still feel free. The line between pleasure and pain blurrs and what left is passion and desire that consumes them.
The darkness lurking over the city and the danger surrounding Inara, it's a mystery for them to solve. They with the help of others face that challenge, fights and come victorious.
She can be his submissive and shows defiance when needed. He is dominant but shows tenderness only for her. They both perfectly fit together. He calms her inner demons and she tames the monster in him. Rex helps Inara to transforms her ability into her strength which she thought was her curse, becomes her blessing and she saves lives.
Lee Savino has written this dark, twisted love story so beautifully where this kind of incredible love grows not in the light but in darkness. There is romance, emotions and spice mixed with plot twist, suspense,mystery and action.
*please check the TW.
Rex is hot, unhinged, dominant billionaire. He is obsessed with Inara and wants to claim and posses her and he can go to any lengths to protect her. He can die and kill for her. Inara is a detective. She's strong, clever and resilient.
Rex and Inara both wanted to make city safe from dangers but both have different ways to achieve them. They both have darkness within and shares special bond from their dark past. Both are broken and lonely souls who finds solace in each other.
The chemistry between them is electric and magnetic. The emotions are feral and raw. The intimate scenes between them is so spicy 🌶️ and explosive🔥. The dom and sub dynamics are primal yet laced with vulnerability. It's about giving control of herself to him fully and still feel free. The line between pleasure and pain blurrs and what left is passion and desire that consumes them.
The darkness lurking over the city and the danger surrounding Inara, it's a mystery for them to solve. They with the help of others face that challenge, fights and come victorious.
She can be his submissive and shows defiance when needed. He is dominant but shows tenderness only for her. They both perfectly fit together. He calms her inner demons and she tames the monster in him. Rex helps Inara to transforms her ability into her strength which she thought was her curse, becomes her blessing and she saves lives.
Lee Savino has written this dark, twisted love story so beautifully where this kind of incredible love grows not in the light but in darkness. There is romance, emotions and spice mixed with plot twist, suspense,mystery and action.
*please check the TW.
August 6, 2025
🥀 "Love feels like dying."
That line? It wrecked me. 😭
This finale to Rex and Inara’s dark, seductive duet is equal parts thrilling, devastating, and undeniably scorching hot. 🔥 From page one, we’re thrust back into a world of chaos, shadows, and two broken souls trying desperately to hold on to the one light they’ve ever known—each other. 🖤
Rex is a billionaire masochist with serious Bruce Wayne energy (🦇💼), and Inara? She’s no damsel in distress. She’s a hurricane in heels who’s survived just as much trauma, pain, and loss. They both lost their parents young to crime, and now? They fight it… sometimes from opposite sides of the law. And yet, somehow, through the fire and blood and betrayal, they find each other. Again and again. 🩸❤️🔥
Their journey is brutal and raw—like tearing open old wounds just to stitch them back together with trembling hands. The emotional warfare they go through hit me hard, especially watching them unravel and rebuild piece by painful piece. 💔🛠️ Trust doesn’t come easy when the world’s taught you to survive, not feel. But oh, when they do trust... when they do surrender to one another... it’s everything. 🥵💥🖤
And can we talk about the STEAM?! Rex’s flaming hot punishments? 😳🔥 Say less. The chemistry is criminal—literally and figuratively. 😂💋
On a fun note, this felt like such a creative deep dive into a Batman-inspired universe (Alfie = MAJOR upgrade with AI sass and tech genius 👏). It made the action-packed scenes feel cinematic and addictive. 🎬💻
But beneath the danger, explosions, and punishments… this is a story about learning how to live again. About embracing the GREY. That love isn’t always soft—it’s messy, terrifying, and sometimes, it hurts. But it’s worth it. Every. Damn. Time. 🖤
And excuse me—Daddy Hamish on the horizon? YES PLEASE. Sign me up. 😏✨
That line? It wrecked me. 😭
This finale to Rex and Inara’s dark, seductive duet is equal parts thrilling, devastating, and undeniably scorching hot. 🔥 From page one, we’re thrust back into a world of chaos, shadows, and two broken souls trying desperately to hold on to the one light they’ve ever known—each other. 🖤
Rex is a billionaire masochist with serious Bruce Wayne energy (🦇💼), and Inara? She’s no damsel in distress. She’s a hurricane in heels who’s survived just as much trauma, pain, and loss. They both lost their parents young to crime, and now? They fight it… sometimes from opposite sides of the law. And yet, somehow, through the fire and blood and betrayal, they find each other. Again and again. 🩸❤️🔥
Their journey is brutal and raw—like tearing open old wounds just to stitch them back together with trembling hands. The emotional warfare they go through hit me hard, especially watching them unravel and rebuild piece by painful piece. 💔🛠️ Trust doesn’t come easy when the world’s taught you to survive, not feel. But oh, when they do trust... when they do surrender to one another... it’s everything. 🥵💥🖤
And can we talk about the STEAM?! Rex’s flaming hot punishments? 😳🔥 Say less. The chemistry is criminal—literally and figuratively. 😂💋
On a fun note, this felt like such a creative deep dive into a Batman-inspired universe (Alfie = MAJOR upgrade with AI sass and tech genius 👏). It made the action-packed scenes feel cinematic and addictive. 🎬💻
But beneath the danger, explosions, and punishments… this is a story about learning how to live again. About embracing the GREY. That love isn’t always soft—it’s messy, terrifying, and sometimes, it hurts. But it’s worth it. Every. Damn. Time. 🖤
And excuse me—Daddy Hamish on the horizon? YES PLEASE. Sign me up. 😏✨
January 5, 2026
This was my first series by Lee Savino, and I absolutely fell headfirst in love with it. This book is sweet and spicy at the same time—the combination is deadly.
Rex has to be one of the best MMCs out there. He is dark, and I love him even more for it. He falls first, and he falls so hard I’m sure he cracked his brains, because there is something so wrong with him—and so right about everything he does out of love for Inara.
This book starts exactly where Book 1 ends, on a cliffhanger, and when Rex realizes how unsafe it is for Inara to be out there. Like a good villain, he cages her—literally cages her—so he can ensure no harm comes to her.
“Only I can keep her safe. And I will do anything. There’s no law I won’t break, no boundary I won’t obliterate.”
And obviously, that doesn’t end well with Inara. Things happen, and he eventually realizes that he has to let her be free because that jeopardizes everything they have together.
"I’ve spent much of my courtship with Inara pissing her off. Why stop now?”
But Rex is Rex. He gives her the best security detail, and when that isn’t enough, he gives her his last name.
“Does Roy Manor have a doghouse? Because that’s where you’ll be sleeping tonight.”
“No, darling. But you can have one installed on the grounds. You’re the mistress of the manor now.”
I adored them. Truly loved them. Rex and Inara are both so caring. That scene where Inara confesses all her fears to Rex and the way he reassures her is just so sweet. This is the best kind of alternative sugar for me—it satisfies all my cravings. MMCs who love their FMCs with this much respect, devotion, and care are everything.
“I have you now. And you have me. If all we have is this moment, it would be enough.”
“If being with you is a death sentence, so be it. I’d rather die than live without you.”
Rex has to be one of the best MMCs out there. He is dark, and I love him even more for it. He falls first, and he falls so hard I’m sure he cracked his brains, because there is something so wrong with him—and so right about everything he does out of love for Inara.
This book starts exactly where Book 1 ends, on a cliffhanger, and when Rex realizes how unsafe it is for Inara to be out there. Like a good villain, he cages her—literally cages her—so he can ensure no harm comes to her.
“Only I can keep her safe. And I will do anything. There’s no law I won’t break, no boundary I won’t obliterate.”
And obviously, that doesn’t end well with Inara. Things happen, and he eventually realizes that he has to let her be free because that jeopardizes everything they have together.
"I’ve spent much of my courtship with Inara pissing her off. Why stop now?”
But Rex is Rex. He gives her the best security detail, and when that isn’t enough, he gives her his last name.
“Does Roy Manor have a doghouse? Because that’s where you’ll be sleeping tonight.”
“No, darling. But you can have one installed on the grounds. You’re the mistress of the manor now.”
I adored them. Truly loved them. Rex and Inara are both so caring. That scene where Inara confesses all her fears to Rex and the way he reassures her is just so sweet. This is the best kind of alternative sugar for me—it satisfies all my cravings. MMCs who love their FMCs with this much respect, devotion, and care are everything.
“I have you now. And you have me. If all we have is this moment, it would be enough.”
“If being with you is a death sentence, so be it. I’d rather die than live without you.”
July 24, 2025
Rex and Inara, K.I.S.S under the TREE..
Okay so the book ends with “Im not Crying…You are Crying!!” and boy.. Is that the correct assumption.
“You have a gift.” “It’s a curse. I don’t just see death. I am death.”
I was sitting on egg shells while reading for the duration of the whole book.. It is nerve wrecking GENIUS LEVEL writing!!
His Perfect Darkness and Darkest before Dawn is Stunning!! In a Brutal, really Gritty and Raw way.
“I’m falling from a great height. There’s no sound, only the sensation of surrender. Everything will be over soon—A blast of excruciating heat hits me. I scream, feeling like it’s searing my skin from my bones…”
Inara is next level.. I did not underestimate her at any point but my being in her corner is pretty much cemented now.
Rex is “Rexing “ and I love him for it. He is the monster in the Darkness.. the monster that needs to be there for Inara. Spoiler.. He does a damn good Monster Villian Job.
oooo Just LOVE having the Twins so close again. (I might still be nursing a book crush from His Perfect Prey… Well.. not might-still.. Definitely - Still under the spell )
“.. identical blond twin giants are waiting for me. They’re tall and built but move light on their feet, like professional fighters…… “Have a nice day, Mrs. Roy,” one of them says. Mrs. Roy? I jerk out of my thoughts and frown….”
lol… Lee has a knack for Humour in her very Dark Romances.. It just lifts me when ever I need it!
“Give this man an inch, and he thinks he’s a ruler.”
Please Start with His Perfect Darkness Before Tackling Darkest Before Dawn..
Do not say I didn't warn you… Yes Sir
ps.. You know the drill. Check your triggers.
Okay so the book ends with “Im not Crying…You are Crying!!” and boy.. Is that the correct assumption.
“You have a gift.” “It’s a curse. I don’t just see death. I am death.”
I was sitting on egg shells while reading for the duration of the whole book.. It is nerve wrecking GENIUS LEVEL writing!!
His Perfect Darkness and Darkest before Dawn is Stunning!! In a Brutal, really Gritty and Raw way.
“I’m falling from a great height. There’s no sound, only the sensation of surrender. Everything will be over soon—A blast of excruciating heat hits me. I scream, feeling like it’s searing my skin from my bones…”
Inara is next level.. I did not underestimate her at any point but my being in her corner is pretty much cemented now.
Rex is “Rexing “ and I love him for it. He is the monster in the Darkness.. the monster that needs to be there for Inara. Spoiler.. He does a damn good Monster Villian Job.
oooo Just LOVE having the Twins so close again. (I might still be nursing a book crush from His Perfect Prey… Well.. not might-still.. Definitely - Still under the spell )
“.. identical blond twin giants are waiting for me. They’re tall and built but move light on their feet, like professional fighters…… “Have a nice day, Mrs. Roy,” one of them says. Mrs. Roy? I jerk out of my thoughts and frown….”
lol… Lee has a knack for Humour in her very Dark Romances.. It just lifts me when ever I need it!
“Give this man an inch, and he thinks he’s a ruler.”
Please Start with His Perfect Darkness Before Tackling Darkest Before Dawn..
Do not say I didn't warn you… Yes Sir
ps.. You know the drill. Check your triggers.
July 20, 2025
**Powerful Conclusion**
*Darkest Before Dawn* is the thrilling second installment in the duet *His Perfect Darkness*, seamlessly continuing the story right where the first book left off. This sequel delivers even darker moments, heightened suspense, and unexpected twists that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The steamy BDSM scenes are intense and expertly woven into the plot, creating a gripping emotional rollercoaster that you'll be eager to experience.
Detective Inara is on a mission to take down the Bondage Killer, and she's determined to navigate the justice system to do it. However, she must sharpen her ability to interpret the frequent visions she’s having, as well as decipher the cryptic letters and bodies that the Bondage Killer leaves behind. This pursuit certainly puts her at risk. Rex, deeply concerned for Inara's safety, wants to protect her at all costs, even considering locking her away while he hunts down the killer with the help of St. James and others. Yet, the more he attempts to cage her, the clearer it becomes that he risks losing her entirely. To succeed, they must work together to capture the Bondage Killer and uncover any insider assistance.
I have truly relished every moment of this story! The characters are compelling and richly developed, thriving in a captivating world that kept me turning pages. I devoured this book in one sitting and am absolutely hungry for more! While I’m not ready to say goodbye to Rex and Inara, I’m excited to dive deeper into the lives of our favorite characters in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Darkest Before Dawn* is the thrilling second installment in the duet *His Perfect Darkness*, seamlessly continuing the story right where the first book left off. This sequel delivers even darker moments, heightened suspense, and unexpected twists that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The steamy BDSM scenes are intense and expertly woven into the plot, creating a gripping emotional rollercoaster that you'll be eager to experience.
Detective Inara is on a mission to take down the Bondage Killer, and she's determined to navigate the justice system to do it. However, she must sharpen her ability to interpret the frequent visions she’s having, as well as decipher the cryptic letters and bodies that the Bondage Killer leaves behind. This pursuit certainly puts her at risk. Rex, deeply concerned for Inara's safety, wants to protect her at all costs, even considering locking her away while he hunts down the killer with the help of St. James and others. Yet, the more he attempts to cage her, the clearer it becomes that he risks losing her entirely. To succeed, they must work together to capture the Bondage Killer and uncover any insider assistance.
I have truly relished every moment of this story! The characters are compelling and richly developed, thriving in a captivating world that kept me turning pages. I devoured this book in one sitting and am absolutely hungry for more! While I’m not ready to say goodbye to Rex and Inara, I’m excited to dive deeper into the lives of our favorite characters in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2025
Wow, What an amazing conclusion to Inara and Rex's story.
Inara is still reeling from Rex's possessive nature, and is determined to find BK on her own, via the right legal channels, but when she goes to leave, Rex does the unthinkable, and locks her away, citing he needs to keep her safe whilst he hunts down a serial killer!
The emotional rollercoaster ride for Rex and Inara is intense, with many twists that you don't see coming. There are times when I felt my heart break as their lines of communication break down due to Rex's obsession of all things Inara, until Rex suddenly realises why he feels so possessive of her. He realises he loves her!! He has never loved anyone except his parents, and having lost them at a young age, he forgot what love was.
The BDSM scenes escalate in this book as Rex takes to punishing Inara when she attempts to flee his mansion, But only in a good way! The scenes are sexy hot and the spice is just right!
I loved the connection and chemistry between these guys as they both fought justice in their own way. Even if Inara did not approve of how Rex metered out his punishment, she found she was able to finally accept it when it came down to Dennis, AKA the Bondage Killer.
Rex loses it when he sees Inara walking into danger, accepting her fate that she would die with BK, so how does Rex save her from herself?
ANS when Rex finds himself in a bind....who comes to his rescue? Inara of course!
The ending was brilliant and yes it brought a tear to my eye, as Rex and Inara find themselves a much deserved HEA!
Inara is still reeling from Rex's possessive nature, and is determined to find BK on her own, via the right legal channels, but when she goes to leave, Rex does the unthinkable, and locks her away, citing he needs to keep her safe whilst he hunts down a serial killer!
The emotional rollercoaster ride for Rex and Inara is intense, with many twists that you don't see coming. There are times when I felt my heart break as their lines of communication break down due to Rex's obsession of all things Inara, until Rex suddenly realises why he feels so possessive of her. He realises he loves her!! He has never loved anyone except his parents, and having lost them at a young age, he forgot what love was.
The BDSM scenes escalate in this book as Rex takes to punishing Inara when she attempts to flee his mansion, But only in a good way! The scenes are sexy hot and the spice is just right!
I loved the connection and chemistry between these guys as they both fought justice in their own way. Even if Inara did not approve of how Rex metered out his punishment, she found she was able to finally accept it when it came down to Dennis, AKA the Bondage Killer.
Rex loses it when he sees Inara walking into danger, accepting her fate that she would die with BK, so how does Rex save her from herself?
ANS when Rex finds himself in a bind....who comes to his rescue? Inara of course!
The ending was brilliant and yes it brought a tear to my eye, as Rex and Inara find themselves a much deserved HEA!
July 24, 2025
Dark, dangerous, and downright addictive Darkest Before Dawn picks up right where book one left off, so trust me when I say read book one first! You do not want to miss a single deliciously twisted moment of Rex and Inara’s story.
This book delivers everything murder, mystery, suspense, and so much spice. We dive deeper into Rex and Inara’s relationship dynamic, and wow, it’s intense. They met during a dom/sub scene and from that moment... she couldn’t shake him. And honestly Neither could I.
Rex is your ultimate unhinged, stalker billionaire vigilante a twisted, obsessive, Batman-esque Dom with zero boundaries and a relentless need to protect Inara. She, on the other hand, is a badass detective trying to do things by the book… until the Bondage Killer returns.
The killer's obsession with Inara is chilling, and the emotional toll it takes on her is written so vividly, I felt everything. She wants justice he wants revenge. Two paths, one enemy, and a dangerous pull between them that neither can resist.
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔’𝐋𝐋 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃:
🖤 Suspense
🔥 Chemistry
🖤 Twisted romance? OH YES.
🔥Kinky Batman Vigilante
🖤Strong Female Detective
🔥Stalker Romance
🖤Billionaire x Detective
🔥BDSM
🖤SPICE. FOR. DAYS.
This book was a wild ride in the best way possible. Gripping, gritty, and sizzling with tension Darkest Before Dawn is a must-read for lovers of dark, erotic romantic suspense. Huge thanks to Lee Savino and The Author Agency for the ARC I devoured every second of it.
This book delivers everything murder, mystery, suspense, and so much spice. We dive deeper into Rex and Inara’s relationship dynamic, and wow, it’s intense. They met during a dom/sub scene and from that moment... she couldn’t shake him. And honestly Neither could I.
Rex is your ultimate unhinged, stalker billionaire vigilante a twisted, obsessive, Batman-esque Dom with zero boundaries and a relentless need to protect Inara. She, on the other hand, is a badass detective trying to do things by the book… until the Bondage Killer returns.
The killer's obsession with Inara is chilling, and the emotional toll it takes on her is written so vividly, I felt everything. She wants justice he wants revenge. Two paths, one enemy, and a dangerous pull between them that neither can resist.
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔’𝐋𝐋 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃:
🖤 Suspense
🔥 Chemistry
🖤 Twisted romance? OH YES.
🔥Kinky Batman Vigilante
🖤Strong Female Detective
🔥Stalker Romance
🖤Billionaire x Detective
🔥BDSM
🖤SPICE. FOR. DAYS.
This book was a wild ride in the best way possible. Gripping, gritty, and sizzling with tension Darkest Before Dawn is a must-read for lovers of dark, erotic romantic suspense. Huge thanks to Lee Savino and The Author Agency for the ARC I devoured every second of it.
July 24, 2025
This is the second book in a series that begins with His Perfect Darkness - it's not a standalone, so check out book 1 first. There are tons of triggers here, so please check those as well before reading.
The story leaves off at the end of book 1, with the FMC Inara being threatened by the Bondage Killer, the serial killer who killed her family when she was a child. BK's back, and he's after Inara - and it's up to her and the MMC, billionaire Rex Roy, to stop him.
The love story between Inara and Rex is so incredible. Their connection is even more fun to read in this book, as they learn and grow together and really explore their chemistry. Now that Inara's moved (somewhat) beyond her hesitation to trust, and Rex's obsession can be indulged by actually being with Inara, the relationship is really fun to read - and it's hotter than hot. The spice is astronomical - and it's heavily BDSM-focused, which is both unique and much appreciated. The BDSM rep here is one of the best I've seen - accurate and well explained without turning into a how-to manual or procedural. Not only is it incredibly hot, but the underlying motivations and rewards for their play is so beautifully explained that I had to stop and just let it soak in.
I can't wait for more stories in this series - all of the characters are so interesting that I am even excited for the side-character stories. Highly recommend this series to anyone with even a passing interest in kink.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
The story leaves off at the end of book 1, with the FMC Inara being threatened by the Bondage Killer, the serial killer who killed her family when she was a child. BK's back, and he's after Inara - and it's up to her and the MMC, billionaire Rex Roy, to stop him.
The love story between Inara and Rex is so incredible. Their connection is even more fun to read in this book, as they learn and grow together and really explore their chemistry. Now that Inara's moved (somewhat) beyond her hesitation to trust, and Rex's obsession can be indulged by actually being with Inara, the relationship is really fun to read - and it's hotter than hot. The spice is astronomical - and it's heavily BDSM-focused, which is both unique and much appreciated. The BDSM rep here is one of the best I've seen - accurate and well explained without turning into a how-to manual or procedural. Not only is it incredibly hot, but the underlying motivations and rewards for their play is so beautifully explained that I had to stop and just let it soak in.
I can't wait for more stories in this series - all of the characters are so interesting that I am even excited for the side-character stories. Highly recommend this series to anyone with even a passing interest in kink.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
July 29, 2025
“It’s official. I’ve put my trust in a self-driving car to escape a billionaire who’s obsessed with me. What is my life?”
🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤🔥
🔥Dark Billionaire
🖤Kinky Batman
🔥BDSM
🖤Stalker
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🖤Detective FMC
🔥Touch Her and D!e
🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤🔥
As others have noted, book 1 MUST be read before this as these books are NOT standalone.
The relationship between Inara & Rex is definitely a twisted & messy one. When Lee advertised the story as having a k!nky Batman, I wasn't expecting a full on Dom or Master. Phew! These scenes aren't just spicy...they're emotional. There's equal care even with the full power exchange they share.
The mystery around the person who unalived her family & many others continues to unfold - especially since he returned & there's another out there. The ending provided perfect closure to her story line and gave us a new aspect to appreciate with Rex and all he would do for Inara.
All around, I enjoyed the dark aspects of this and my emotions are still all over the place with it. For anyone who does enjoy PNR, I feel like they would absolutely love this completely. This duet was my introduction to Lee Savino and I'm still wrapping my feelings around the books. I absolutely adored & loved her writing style, but I had not realized there was the paranormal aspect with the psychic MC. This is not a genre I typically enjoy, but am writing this review based on everything apart from that aspect as that is on me and me alone.
Thank you to Lee & The Author Agency for the ARC on this one!
🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤🔥
🔥Dark Billionaire
🖤Kinky Batman
🔥BDSM
🖤Stalker
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🖤Detective FMC
🔥Touch Her and D!e
🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤🔥
As others have noted, book 1 MUST be read before this as these books are NOT standalone.
The relationship between Inara & Rex is definitely a twisted & messy one. When Lee advertised the story as having a k!nky Batman, I wasn't expecting a full on Dom or Master. Phew! These scenes aren't just spicy...they're emotional. There's equal care even with the full power exchange they share.
The mystery around the person who unalived her family & many others continues to unfold - especially since he returned & there's another out there. The ending provided perfect closure to her story line and gave us a new aspect to appreciate with Rex and all he would do for Inara.
All around, I enjoyed the dark aspects of this and my emotions are still all over the place with it. For anyone who does enjoy PNR, I feel like they would absolutely love this completely. This duet was my introduction to Lee Savino and I'm still wrapping my feelings around the books. I absolutely adored & loved her writing style, but I had not realized there was the paranormal aspect with the psychic MC. This is not a genre I typically enjoy, but am writing this review based on everything apart from that aspect as that is on me and me alone.
Thank you to Lee & The Author Agency for the ARC on this one!
July 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A huge thanks to @leesavino and @theauthoragency for the ARC.
Darkest before dawn is the final instalment of the series “His Perfect Darkness”
The story continues where the first book left off. We get a more deeper understanding of Rex’s and Inara’s relationship dynamic. There is mystery, there are emotions and a few giggles as well. And the spice was spicing 🔥🔥. What I loved in these spicy moments that they were also depicting both the characters vulnerabilities and emotions!!
This is my second book by Lee Savino and I must say her writing and the pacing were definitely on point. I did not feel the story was dragging at all.
Also, I do understand why Inara took such a long time to come in terms with Rex’s way of justice. That is because of the tragedy she went through. That was her core of going into being a detective. She did not wanted any child or any family going through what she went through. That is why she tried again and again to confront Rex’s method of vigilantism.
We also see Rex trying to be more understanding and accommodating to what Inara wants and credit goes to the author to highlighting this so beautifully how his obsession turned into love! He started respecting her boundaries and also consider her as a part of his team rather than just protecting her
Overall it was a very nice read and I am definitely hoping we get to see more of Mr. St. Sebastian 😍😍
A huge thanks to @leesavino and @theauthoragency for the ARC.
Darkest before dawn is the final instalment of the series “His Perfect Darkness”
The story continues where the first book left off. We get a more deeper understanding of Rex’s and Inara’s relationship dynamic. There is mystery, there are emotions and a few giggles as well. And the spice was spicing 🔥🔥. What I loved in these spicy moments that they were also depicting both the characters vulnerabilities and emotions!!
This is my second book by Lee Savino and I must say her writing and the pacing were definitely on point. I did not feel the story was dragging at all.
Also, I do understand why Inara took such a long time to come in terms with Rex’s way of justice. That is because of the tragedy she went through. That was her core of going into being a detective. She did not wanted any child or any family going through what she went through. That is why she tried again and again to confront Rex’s method of vigilantism.
We also see Rex trying to be more understanding and accommodating to what Inara wants and credit goes to the author to highlighting this so beautifully how his obsession turned into love! He started respecting her boundaries and also consider her as a part of his team rather than just protecting her
Overall it was a very nice read and I am definitely hoping we get to see more of Mr. St. Sebastian 😍😍
July 24, 2025
Multibillionaire Rex Roy is obsessed with Inara Ramos. He loves her, yes, but he also wants to possess her. To own her. To be her every thought, of every day, for the rest of their lives. He is determined to hunt her and make her his in every way.
Independent Inara never lets anyone in. Her relationships are all surface level. She has built walls around herself over the years to not only protect herself, but others as well.
We were first introduced to Rex’s dominant obsession in the first of this duet, “His Perfect Darkness.” Now, their story continues and while Rex is still hunting Inara, she is also being hunted by a serial killer. They are teaming up to find and stop the bondage killer before he murders anyone else in their city.
If you are a fan of Batman, this is your story….with lots of spice and kink to make things interesting. There are several moments in the story with nail biting tension. This is a definite “page turner.”
Also, without giving any spoilers, the love that these two characters feel for one another is incomparable. With their shared past traumas, they are able to relate, connect, and feel things on a different level than most people would.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence. This is a Dark Romance. There are also some trigger warnings that should be adhered to prior to reading this story.
I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Independent Inara never lets anyone in. Her relationships are all surface level. She has built walls around herself over the years to not only protect herself, but others as well.
We were first introduced to Rex’s dominant obsession in the first of this duet, “His Perfect Darkness.” Now, their story continues and while Rex is still hunting Inara, she is also being hunted by a serial killer. They are teaming up to find and stop the bondage killer before he murders anyone else in their city.
If you are a fan of Batman, this is your story….with lots of spice and kink to make things interesting. There are several moments in the story with nail biting tension. This is a definite “page turner.”
Also, without giving any spoilers, the love that these two characters feel for one another is incomparable. With their shared past traumas, they are able to relate, connect, and feel things on a different level than most people would.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence. This is a Dark Romance. There are also some trigger warnings that should be adhered to prior to reading this story.
I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 5, 2025
Darkest Before Dawn made me feel like its hero was a salute to the Dark Knight version of Batman. Rex (of course, his name is the Latin word for “king”) has any number of special gadgets, untold riches, a need to work outside the system—heck, he even has his own version of Alfred! What does he have that Batman doesn’t? An absolute and total committed desire for Inara, his heroine.
Inara, for her part, deals with visions of the future that are just incomplete enough to inspire dread rather than certainty. Add to it her submissive nature coupled with Rex’s dominance, and they make quite a couple.
This book follows Rex and Inara’s journey not only to be togther but to save Inara from the clutches of a serial killer who seems to have returned from the dead. Savino adds a number of twists to this part of the story that I quite enjoyed. I was bothered by Inara’s inability to recognize that, as the target of the killer, there is no way she would be allowed to lead that investigation even though she is a detective. It took her way too long to accept that she had to take a different tack in approaching that situation.
Savino writes this book so well, and I was gripped by it. A note on this: it is the second book in a duology. While it can be read on its own, it’s a much richer experience if you’ve read the first book, particularly in the establishment of the relationship between Inara and Rex.
Inara, for her part, deals with visions of the future that are just incomplete enough to inspire dread rather than certainty. Add to it her submissive nature coupled with Rex’s dominance, and they make quite a couple.
This book follows Rex and Inara’s journey not only to be togther but to save Inara from the clutches of a serial killer who seems to have returned from the dead. Savino adds a number of twists to this part of the story that I quite enjoyed. I was bothered by Inara’s inability to recognize that, as the target of the killer, there is no way she would be allowed to lead that investigation even though she is a detective. It took her way too long to accept that she had to take a different tack in approaching that situation.
Savino writes this book so well, and I was gripped by it. A note on this: it is the second book in a duology. While it can be read on its own, it’s a much richer experience if you’ve read the first book, particularly in the establishment of the relationship between Inara and Rex.
July 19, 2025
Thank you so much for trusting me with an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own!
Book two in the series (start with His Perfect Darkness or you’ll be lost!). Not going to lie, the “Kinky Batman” trope is what hooked me. It’s packed with mystery, filthy spice, raw emotions, and even a few giggles. The characters are a hot mess, and their relationship is intense, passionate, and deeply addictive.
Inara is a detective chasing the Bondage Killer… and now a new one, the Blackbird Killer is thrown into the story. And then there’s Rex. An obsessive, dirty-talking, billionaire vigilante with eyes only for her. Both Rex and Inara are broken souls, but watching their love grow through all the chaos and pain was so satisfying. This story gives you twists, heartbreak, heat, and best of all, a well-earned, emotionally satisfying HEA.
This was only my second Lee Savino book, but her writing? 🔥 The tension, the depth, the darkness, and the spice is all so well done. While I’m no expert, I truly felt like the BDSM elements were respectful and accurate.
Fav quote:
“Men will literally dress up in bulletproof suits and run around being vigilantes instead of going to therapy.”
Tropes:
🦇 Kinky Batman
🦇 Vigilante
🦇 Stalking
🦇 BDSM
🦇 Billionaire
🦇 Very spicy
🦇 Tragic past
🦇 Psychic abilities
Book two in the series (start with His Perfect Darkness or you’ll be lost!). Not going to lie, the “Kinky Batman” trope is what hooked me. It’s packed with mystery, filthy spice, raw emotions, and even a few giggles. The characters are a hot mess, and their relationship is intense, passionate, and deeply addictive.
Inara is a detective chasing the Bondage Killer… and now a new one, the Blackbird Killer is thrown into the story. And then there’s Rex. An obsessive, dirty-talking, billionaire vigilante with eyes only for her. Both Rex and Inara are broken souls, but watching their love grow through all the chaos and pain was so satisfying. This story gives you twists, heartbreak, heat, and best of all, a well-earned, emotionally satisfying HEA.
This was only my second Lee Savino book, but her writing? 🔥 The tension, the depth, the darkness, and the spice is all so well done. While I’m no expert, I truly felt like the BDSM elements were respectful and accurate.
Fav quote:
“Men will literally dress up in bulletproof suits and run around being vigilantes instead of going to therapy.”
Tropes:
🦇 Kinky Batman
🦇 Vigilante
🦇 Stalking
🦇 BDSM
🦇 Billionaire
🦇 Very spicy
🦇 Tragic past
🦇 Psychic abilities
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