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The Dark in Her Veins
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Expected 25 Aug 26Win a free print copy of this book!
15 days and 23:13:11
10 copies available
U.S. only
From critically acclaimed, UK bestselling author M.K. Lobb comes a noir romantic fantasy set in a world in which sin is a fatal disease, and the rich hire the poor to carry out their basest instincts—until the forbidden romance between a sinner and a mysterious figure threatens to destroy everything.
336 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 25, 2026
About the author
M.K. Lobb
7 books667 followersM. K. Lobb is a fantasy writer with a love of all things dark— be it literature, humour, or general aesthetic. She grew up in small-town Canada and now lives by the lake with her partner and their cats. When not reading or writing, she can be found at the gym or contemplating the harsh realities of existence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I squealed when I got this in my mail a few months ago! HUGE thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for a chance to review this arc 🥹 you made a girl so happy!
« Fury is a second heartbeat within me, coiled against my ribs like a vital organ. »
Honestly, I’m in awe at how talented this author is with writing rageful women. I was angry with her. I felt every second of her anger in my core and I would give this aspect a million stars.
This dark fantasy (with dark romance) follows the fmc who had a traumatic upbringing in a cult. This world is extremely religious and even if she’s out of the cult now ; the world still felt like a cult. She has darkness in her veins because she sinned a lot… and it comes with a lot of consequences.
Now I don’t normally like dark romance but this one was really well written. I was rooting for the fmc from the start and I just wanted her to succeed and get out of that whole world.
The pacing was flowing at a good pace for the majority of the book but felt more rushed towards the ending. I sincerely wasn’t a fan of said ending but that’s only subjective. I’m really excited to see what happens in the sequel though!
The writing flows really well and I do think this author has a prose that’s emotional ; I could feel every emotion the characters had. I recommend this for dark fantasy & dark romance readers.
« Fury is a second heartbeat within me, coiled against my ribs like a vital organ. »
Honestly, I’m in awe at how talented this author is with writing rageful women. I was angry with her. I felt every second of her anger in my core and I would give this aspect a million stars.
This dark fantasy (with dark romance) follows the fmc who had a traumatic upbringing in a cult. This world is extremely religious and even if she’s out of the cult now ; the world still felt like a cult. She has darkness in her veins because she sinned a lot… and it comes with a lot of consequences.
Now I don’t normally like dark romance but this one was really well written. I was rooting for the fmc from the start and I just wanted her to succeed and get out of that whole world.
The pacing was flowing at a good pace for the majority of the book but felt more rushed towards the ending. I sincerely wasn’t a fan of said ending but that’s only subjective. I’m really excited to see what happens in the sequel though!
The writing flows really well and I do think this author has a prose that’s emotional ; I could feel every emotion the characters had. I recommend this for dark fantasy & dark romance readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Braving this site to make an update now that ARCs are going out: Please be aware that there are numerous content warnings for this book, such as descriptions of murder, religious cults (and implied abuse associated with that), abusive parents, knife play, power play/BDSM dynamics, and general relentless violence. I wouldn’t say it’s super intense, but it’s definitely dark, so YMMV! If I missed anything you think I should’ve included, please let me know through my website form. AND YES THERE IS A SEQUEL so consider this your cliffhanger warning!! Thanks for being here xx
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I binged this book in a single sitting.
It is dark and sexy and the tension had me sweating!
The world & magic is interesting and well developed. While not a completely novel concept - I still thought the author put a unique spin on the sin/corrupt religious institutions situation.
The MMC definitely gives vampire vibes, but instead of blood he feeds on sins. 10/10 no notes on that disastrously sexy morally black mess of an mmc.
The fmc is just as messy, with lots of trauma, and just as sexy, again 10/10 no notes. love her.
I had a really good time reading this one.
Whats to love…
- everyone is bisexual & morally black & messy
- religious cults
- corrupt religious institution as a form of government
- vampire vibes, but also not vampires
- dark, sexy, spicy
- grade A tension and feral f-ing
What might not work for some…
- well obviously dont read this if youre not into dark romance. check your content warnings
- I did want the paint to move along a bit faster towards the mid-end but that could have been a me issue.
4.25⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Sourcebooks for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
It is dark and sexy and the tension had me sweating!
The world & magic is interesting and well developed. While not a completely novel concept - I still thought the author put a unique spin on the sin/corrupt religious institutions situation.
The MMC definitely gives vampire vibes, but instead of blood he feeds on sins. 10/10 no notes on that disastrously sexy morally black mess of an mmc.
The fmc is just as messy, with lots of trauma, and just as sexy, again 10/10 no notes. love her.
I had a really good time reading this one.
Whats to love…
- everyone is bisexual & morally black & messy
- religious cults
- corrupt religious institution as a form of government
- vampire vibes, but also not vampires
- dark, sexy, spicy
- grade A tension and feral f-ing
What might not work for some…
- well obviously dont read this if youre not into dark romance. check your content warnings
- I did want the paint to move along a bit faster towards the mid-end but that could have been a me issue.
4.25⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Sourcebooks for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Want to Read
March 19, 2026~Pre-read~ ARC copy, dark romance, forbidden romance, say no more! this one has my name on it... lol
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
comment ça je dois attendre le tome 2 là omg Slade YOU'RE MY NEW MAN
June 14, 2026
"We were always going to end up like this: His knife in my back, and mine in his."
4.5 ☆
Ever since I applied for this ARC, I literally thought about it every single day, hoping I'd get accepted for it and my manifestation worked. The dark in her veins did not disappoint, in fact I am so blown away by the plot of this book, I will be thinking about it for very many days to come.
This read was definitely very plot forward, and it was such a compelling story line I kept wanting more. Talen is a sinner, employed by the prophet himself to kill on his behalf, however sinning leads to a condition called blood rot which Talen suffers from deeply. Knowing that her next kill could be her last, she's desperate to find a cure and have her freedom. The prose of this book were so distinctive, I truly don't think I've read anything like it. Every plot point was developed with so much depth, it felt like a movie playing in my head. The writing was one of my favorite parts, the vocabulary used and the style of writing fit so well with the story, it made me feel so immersed in the book and really brought out the emotions every prose was meant to evoke.
The romance is what was so different to me in this book. I wouldn't call it romance per se, both of the MCs deny having the capability to love and care. They find their attraction to each other being a primal need more so, and that's honestly what it felt like but it was woven together with impeccable yearning that I couldn't figure out whether it was hot or emotional but in the best way😭. Also I have to say the spice on this book 🥵 literally some of the best I've ever read. If you've read this there's that one scene I NEED TO SCREAM ABOUT IT!!
Talen, our FMC, is morally black. She was so confident but she had moments with her insecurities about the bloodrot that made her feel so realistic. She's one of those FMCs that are definitely a little difficult to understand and love but honestly if I had been through even a fraction of what she had I would be no different. Every action of hers felt deliberate and very self preserving and getting an insight to her thoughts explained it all so well. Slade, the MMC, is also very morally black. He's such a misunderstood character with a tragic past which made me feel for him. He's a very hard and moody man who believes he feels nothing yet you get those little moments where you see him being a softie for Talen and I was so there for that. The yearning by him literally had me throwing my kindle down😭. Both of the characters were developed incredibly well. I felt so connected to them both even though we only got one POV. I also really appreciated the past chapters because it helped me understand why Talen is the way she is and really connect with her on that deep level.
The reason this book didn't quite hit the 5 stars mark for me is because I found there to be a lack of world building. I wish we got more details to the setting of the book, it felt a bit drowned out as compared to the plot.
Thank you so much for this ARC M.K Lobb, sourcebooks Casa and netgalley 🩷
Release Date: August 25th, 2026
4.5 ☆
Ever since I applied for this ARC, I literally thought about it every single day, hoping I'd get accepted for it and my manifestation worked. The dark in her veins did not disappoint, in fact I am so blown away by the plot of this book, I will be thinking about it for very many days to come.
This read was definitely very plot forward, and it was such a compelling story line I kept wanting more. Talen is a sinner, employed by the prophet himself to kill on his behalf, however sinning leads to a condition called blood rot which Talen suffers from deeply. Knowing that her next kill could be her last, she's desperate to find a cure and have her freedom. The prose of this book were so distinctive, I truly don't think I've read anything like it. Every plot point was developed with so much depth, it felt like a movie playing in my head. The writing was one of my favorite parts, the vocabulary used and the style of writing fit so well with the story, it made me feel so immersed in the book and really brought out the emotions every prose was meant to evoke.
The romance is what was so different to me in this book. I wouldn't call it romance per se, both of the MCs deny having the capability to love and care. They find their attraction to each other being a primal need more so, and that's honestly what it felt like but it was woven together with impeccable yearning that I couldn't figure out whether it was hot or emotional but in the best way😭. Also I have to say the spice on this book 🥵 literally some of the best I've ever read. If you've read this there's that one scene I NEED TO SCREAM ABOUT IT!!
Talen, our FMC, is morally black. She was so confident but she had moments with her insecurities about the bloodrot that made her feel so realistic. She's one of those FMCs that are definitely a little difficult to understand and love but honestly if I had been through even a fraction of what she had I would be no different. Every action of hers felt deliberate and very self preserving and getting an insight to her thoughts explained it all so well. Slade, the MMC, is also very morally black. He's such a misunderstood character with a tragic past which made me feel for him. He's a very hard and moody man who believes he feels nothing yet you get those little moments where you see him being a softie for Talen and I was so there for that. The yearning by him literally had me throwing my kindle down😭. Both of the characters were developed incredibly well. I felt so connected to them both even though we only got one POV. I also really appreciated the past chapters because it helped me understand why Talen is the way she is and really connect with her on that deep level.
The reason this book didn't quite hit the 5 stars mark for me is because I found there to be a lack of world building. I wish we got more details to the setting of the book, it felt a bit drowned out as compared to the plot.
Thank you so much for this ARC M.K Lobb, sourcebooks Casa and netgalley 🩷
Release Date: August 25th, 2026
May 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for this e-ARC of this title releasing in August 2026.
This far exceeded my expectations, and if I didn’t have work and other adulting - I could have read it in one sitting. This is a darker gritty fantasy/dystopian story that has themes and topics of religion and the groups within it. Also some TWs for some content so be sure to look at those before reading.
In this world, Sin is deadly. As in, those who sin start to develop a rot that will in time be their demise. So to avoid that rot, the rich and powerful will hire Sinners to commit their crimes and take on the rot for them. Talin is a sinner to one of the most important people in their society - the prophet. The biggest religious figurehead in their society, but also secretly the most devious and controlling. Having taken on Talin after she lost everything and everyone, she is indebted to him. She hates him almost as much as she relies on him. So when he sends her to the dark side of town to gather information - she goes. Only to meet the much whispered about, mysterious Warden. The warden is known as the opposition to prophet. Encouraging sin and crime, shunning their religious beliefs. But he also gives Talin another choice - to betray the prophet and scheme against him and in exchange she will be free. But is Talin only exchanging one cage for another. And with her blood rot rapidly worsening, she has little time left - for someone so close to death, all she wants is to live, but how far will she go to stay alive.
A lot of great banter, spice, plot twists and double crosses. Written very well. Does end in a cliffhanger - so looking forward to a sequel!
This far exceeded my expectations, and if I didn’t have work and other adulting - I could have read it in one sitting. This is a darker gritty fantasy/dystopian story that has themes and topics of religion and the groups within it. Also some TWs for some content so be sure to look at those before reading.
In this world, Sin is deadly. As in, those who sin start to develop a rot that will in time be their demise. So to avoid that rot, the rich and powerful will hire Sinners to commit their crimes and take on the rot for them. Talin is a sinner to one of the most important people in their society - the prophet. The biggest religious figurehead in their society, but also secretly the most devious and controlling. Having taken on Talin after she lost everything and everyone, she is indebted to him. She hates him almost as much as she relies on him. So when he sends her to the dark side of town to gather information - she goes. Only to meet the much whispered about, mysterious Warden. The warden is known as the opposition to prophet. Encouraging sin and crime, shunning their religious beliefs. But he also gives Talin another choice - to betray the prophet and scheme against him and in exchange she will be free. But is Talin only exchanging one cage for another. And with her blood rot rapidly worsening, she has little time left - for someone so close to death, all she wants is to live, but how far will she go to stay alive.
A lot of great banter, spice, plot twists and double crosses. Written very well. Does end in a cliffhanger - so looking forward to a sequel!
April 3, 2026
I mean… girl, the concept is freaking amazing❤️🔥
beginning feels like a slay-born queen Celaena dropped into a dark urban fantasy world with strong Bryce vibes, but make it actually DARK
no parties, no glitter, no happy distractions
and then… somewhere along the way, that potential just doesn’t fully deliver. the world itself isn’t explored nearly as much as I hoped, which is a shame, because the idea behind it is genuinely interesting
the concept of sins manifesting like a visible illness? it’s intriguing me enough that I could overlook certain elements (like the BDSM dynamics or the age gap between the main characters🙅🏼♀️)
but tell me WHY is FMC always so annoyingly young?😩
her behavior and decisions often feel more like an impulsive teenager than someone we’re supposed to believe became a soulless ghost-killer in just three years
I just don’t buy it. do you?
in my opinion, the author spends too much time on unnecessary or slightly cringe moments (like drawn-out everyday scenes or repeatedly emphasizing that the MMC is ready for literally every possible “front”)
somewhere in the middle of the book, I realized I was getting lost in conversations that didn’t add much and actual plot started to feel barely there.
my rating is 2.75 ⭐️ (just because I love the concept!)
I received an ARC via NetGalley, many thanks for the opportunity! All opinions are my own💝
beginning feels like a slay-born queen Celaena dropped into a dark urban fantasy world with strong Bryce vibes, but make it actually DARK
no parties, no glitter, no happy distractions
and then… somewhere along the way, that potential just doesn’t fully deliver. the world itself isn’t explored nearly as much as I hoped, which is a shame, because the idea behind it is genuinely interesting
the concept of sins manifesting like a visible illness? it’s intriguing me enough that I could overlook certain elements (like the BDSM dynamics or the age gap between the main characters🙅🏼♀️)
but tell me WHY is FMC always so annoyingly young?😩
her behavior and decisions often feel more like an impulsive teenager than someone we’re supposed to believe became a soulless ghost-killer in just three years
I just don’t buy it. do you?
in my opinion, the author spends too much time on unnecessary or slightly cringe moments (like drawn-out everyday scenes or repeatedly emphasizing that the MMC is ready for literally every possible “front”)
somewhere in the middle of the book, I realized I was getting lost in conversations that didn’t add much and actual plot started to feel barely there.
my rating is 2.75 ⭐️ (just because I love the concept!)
I received an ARC via NetGalley, many thanks for the opportunity! All opinions are my own💝
Want to Read
January 23, 2026Everyone being the villain and Sleep Token’s Chokehold as the theme?
Yeah, sign me the fuck up for this.
Yeah, sign me the fuck up for this.
March 30, 2026
recieved an ARC of this from netgalley (sourcebooks)
I love love loved this book and cannot wait for the next one. The premise was amazing, but that CLIFFHANGER🥲
I love love loved this book and cannot wait for the next one. The premise was amazing, but that CLIFFHANGER🥲
June 30, 2026
“I can’t think of anything lovelier than your wrath. I can’t imagine anything more exquisite than bleeding for you.”
Well, I went into this book with zero expectations and had a blast.
The Dark In Her Veins is a fast-paced, addictive page-turner, and I ate it up. The concept was super interesting, the morally black characters were unapologetically devious, and I’m a sucker for a bit of a found family trope, or the potential beginning of one in this case 👀.
I really liked Talin, and her back & forth with Slade was dark, but had me giggling. Also Slade is just ✨ perfection ✨ - the spice in this book is delicious and I was just highlighting practically every quote from Slade’s mouth, both the filth & his sarcasm. Also imma leave this here:
“I am your god, little sinner. And don’t you fucking forget it.” 🥵🥵
The only reason I haven’t given this one five stars is that it was so fast-paced, it didn’t have the level of world building and lore that I usually go for. It also made the romance aspect seem incredibly fast, and I’m a sucker for a slow burn. I will say though, the tension is absolutely there. 😏
After THAT ending I now need book two immediately, and I can’t wait to find out what happens. I also just need more Slade and his slutty little nose ring.
Thank you so much to M.K Lobb, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and NetGalley for the eARC 😍
Well, I went into this book with zero expectations and had a blast.
The Dark In Her Veins is a fast-paced, addictive page-turner, and I ate it up. The concept was super interesting, the morally black characters were unapologetically devious, and I’m a sucker for a bit of a found family trope, or the potential beginning of one in this case 👀.
I really liked Talin, and her back & forth with Slade was dark, but had me giggling. Also Slade is just ✨ perfection ✨ - the spice in this book is delicious and I was just highlighting practically every quote from Slade’s mouth, both the filth & his sarcasm. Also imma leave this here:
“I am your god, little sinner. And don’t you fucking forget it.” 🥵🥵
The only reason I haven’t given this one five stars is that it was so fast-paced, it didn’t have the level of world building and lore that I usually go for. It also made the romance aspect seem incredibly fast, and I’m a sucker for a slow burn. I will say though, the tension is absolutely there. 😏
After THAT ending I now need book two immediately, and I can’t wait to find out what happens. I also just need more Slade and his slutty little nose ring.
Thank you so much to M.K Lobb, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and NetGalley for the eARC 😍
May 20, 2026
Thank you, SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC of this book.
In a world where the wealthy hire the less fortunate to commit their sins, leading to death due to “blood rod,” Talin has been Gabriel’s sinner for so long that her veins are dark, and her time is running out. Until she meets a mysterious man who might be able to help her.
The writing style wasn’t my favourite, and I needed more world-building and backstory about the trench and the various religions or groups. Phrases like “for some inconceivable reason” were used when events occurred, which wasn’t enough for me to fully believe in the story and the world the characters inhabited. However, after about 30%, I felt that the writing and story improved slightly. I really struggled to get into this book, making it a slow read for me.
I loved how mysterious Slade was, and the romance was ok, although it also seemed instant and rushed. I couldn’t connect with the FMC, which made the romance hard to believe for me. I really did love Slade, though. He was hot, and I enjoyed his sarcasm and mysterious demeanour. Sadly, this was a slow burn. I usually love a good slow burn, but this one just wasn’t giving me anything to keep me excited. To top it off, it ended on a cliffy 😑 I was not impressed. I really wanted to see a conclusion but to be honest I probably won’t read the second book.
Overall, it was a unique concept but fell a little flat in some areas for me. It was a “meh,” rating around 2.5 to 3 stars.
In a world where the wealthy hire the less fortunate to commit their sins, leading to death due to “blood rod,” Talin has been Gabriel’s sinner for so long that her veins are dark, and her time is running out. Until she meets a mysterious man who might be able to help her.
The writing style wasn’t my favourite, and I needed more world-building and backstory about the trench and the various religions or groups. Phrases like “for some inconceivable reason” were used when events occurred, which wasn’t enough for me to fully believe in the story and the world the characters inhabited. However, after about 30%, I felt that the writing and story improved slightly. I really struggled to get into this book, making it a slow read for me.
I loved how mysterious Slade was, and the romance was ok, although it also seemed instant and rushed. I couldn’t connect with the FMC, which made the romance hard to believe for me. I really did love Slade, though. He was hot, and I enjoyed his sarcasm and mysterious demeanour. Sadly, this was a slow burn. I usually love a good slow burn, but this one just wasn’t giving me anything to keep me excited. To top it off, it ended on a cliffy 😑 I was not impressed. I really wanted to see a conclusion but to be honest I probably won’t read the second book.
Overall, it was a unique concept but fell a little flat in some areas for me. It was a “meh,” rating around 2.5 to 3 stars.
July 9, 2026
First I want to thank Sourcebooks Casablanca for the Netgalley arc!!
I absolutely loved this book. It started off a little slow but it picked up & I had a hard time putting it down!
I found the story line to be super unique. I felt like this was one big metaphor for how some religion + churches are in real life. Especially the cult aspect of it all. Having hired sinners that get “blood rot” every time they commit sins for their “master” is crazy. & like I said, so unique.
I didn’t emotionally connect with any of the characters which is why it’s 4 stars but I still enjoyed the book so much!! The cliffhanger has left me spinning and sad lol can’t wait for book two!!!
I absolutely loved this book. It started off a little slow but it picked up & I had a hard time putting it down!
I found the story line to be super unique. I felt like this was one big metaphor for how some religion + churches are in real life. Especially the cult aspect of it all. Having hired sinners that get “blood rot” every time they commit sins for their “master” is crazy. & like I said, so unique.
I didn’t emotionally connect with any of the characters which is why it’s 4 stars but I still enjoyed the book so much!! The cliffhanger has left me spinning and sad lol can’t wait for book two!!!
Read
May 6, 2026Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
literally DEVOURED this!! Something about the set up of two mcs having to journey together to work on an evil plan AND THEY HATE EACH OTHER give me a ten book series right now. I read that this was going to be a cliffhanger and did in fact ignore all the warnings, so will be wiling away the hours until we get a book 2 because Lobb really said religious trauma for EVERYONE. Also just know the fanart for this will be divine. enjoyed everything about it <3
literally DEVOURED this!! Something about the set up of two mcs having to journey together to work on an evil plan AND THEY HATE EACH OTHER give me a ten book series right now. I read that this was going to be a cliffhanger and did in fact ignore all the warnings, so will be wiling away the hours until we get a book 2 because Lobb really said religious trauma for EVERYONE. Also just know the fanart for this will be divine. enjoyed everything about it <3
May 31, 2026
"He looks like a man who uses teeth, Which is, incidentally, the only kid of man I'm interested in."
Four stars - purely because I could have done with a deeper dive into the story but I'm hoping that it was setting us up for a sequel.
Sinning causes the bloodrot which will eventually kill the sinner, the more they sin the more it spreads. Talin is a sinner for hire with a real will to survive and this book shows her her story and how she became who she is and her journey of trying to outrun her bloodrot.
I absolutely adored the banter throughout this book and the unpredictability of just how brutal not only the sinners, but those who hire them could be.
Favourite character: Slade - he is morally not okay and I am all here for that.
My favourite part about this book is that there is no perfection here. All our characters have different flaws to some degree and it makes it easier to relate to them.
I'm incredibly hopeful after that little cliff we got left on that there will be a sequel on it's way to us!
"After all, when it comes right down to it, I was just a girl who didn't want to die. A girl willing to do anything to live. I never intended to be a murderer. Until, of course, I did."
Four stars - purely because I could have done with a deeper dive into the story but I'm hoping that it was setting us up for a sequel.
Sinning causes the bloodrot which will eventually kill the sinner, the more they sin the more it spreads. Talin is a sinner for hire with a real will to survive and this book shows her her story and how she became who she is and her journey of trying to outrun her bloodrot.
I absolutely adored the banter throughout this book and the unpredictability of just how brutal not only the sinners, but those who hire them could be.
Favourite character: Slade - he is morally not okay and I am all here for that.
My favourite part about this book is that there is no perfection here. All our characters have different flaws to some degree and it makes it easier to relate to them.
I'm incredibly hopeful after that little cliff we got left on that there will be a sequel on it's way to us!
"After all, when it comes right down to it, I was just a girl who didn't want to die. A girl willing to do anything to live. I never intended to be a murderer. Until, of course, I did."
May 31, 2026
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC and the chance to read this early!
This one had a lot going for it on paper, with a dark noir atmosphere, cult elements, and heavier religious undertones, but it didn’t fully come together for me.
The character work is where I struggled most. The ages felt off for what these characters are supposed to be doing, and it made a lot of their choices hard to take seriously. The FMC especially is talked up as this legendary, untouchable assassin, but what we actually see doesn’t match that reputation at all.
Slade also didn’t quite hit. He’s framed as dangerous and morally grey, but we’re mostly told that rather than shown it. Because of that, the dynamic between him and Talin didn’t feel as natural or convincing as I wanted it to.
The setting had so much potential, but it felt pretty surface level. I kept waiting for more detail or atmosphere to really pull me in, and it never quite got there. The dialogue was hit or miss too, sometimes fun, but often a little awkward.
I will say, the pacing picked up a lot toward the end, and those final chapters were easily the most engaging part of the book. Overall, I was entertained enough and never felt like putting it down, but I do wish it had gone deeper.
This one had a lot going for it on paper, with a dark noir atmosphere, cult elements, and heavier religious undertones, but it didn’t fully come together for me.
The character work is where I struggled most. The ages felt off for what these characters are supposed to be doing, and it made a lot of their choices hard to take seriously. The FMC especially is talked up as this legendary, untouchable assassin, but what we actually see doesn’t match that reputation at all.
Slade also didn’t quite hit. He’s framed as dangerous and morally grey, but we’re mostly told that rather than shown it. Because of that, the dynamic between him and Talin didn’t feel as natural or convincing as I wanted it to.
The setting had so much potential, but it felt pretty surface level. I kept waiting for more detail or atmosphere to really pull me in, and it never quite got there. The dialogue was hit or miss too, sometimes fun, but often a little awkward.
I will say, the pacing picked up a lot toward the end, and those final chapters were easily the most engaging part of the book. Overall, I was entertained enough and never felt like putting it down, but I do wish it had gone deeper.
March 18, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Sourcebooks, and M.K. Lobb for this eARC!
In a world where sinning is writing your own death sentence, it’s meant literally and our FMC, Talin is no stranger to sinning.
I was hooked immediately with this unique plot and world. The world building and images I was able to create in my head made this book so immersive. We have religious trauma, cults, basically mini Satans, and morally grey everyone. The “Then” chapters sprinkled throughout were a great flashback as to learning why Talin is the way she is and does the things she does.
No one trusts anyone and the betrayal and plot twists were a given. Was some of it predictable? Yes but it was still so very worth it. But of course, the way the story unfolds and through Talin’s inner monologue you start to have hope and positive feelings at certain possibilities. Like a found family trope that never quite made it or that real feelings exist.
The problem with getting an ARC is I need to wait even longer for book two but also looking forward to this reread one day.
Please be advised that this book is DARK, especially religious trauma.
In a world where sinning is writing your own death sentence, it’s meant literally and our FMC, Talin is no stranger to sinning.
I was hooked immediately with this unique plot and world. The world building and images I was able to create in my head made this book so immersive. We have religious trauma, cults, basically mini Satans, and morally grey everyone. The “Then” chapters sprinkled throughout were a great flashback as to learning why Talin is the way she is and does the things she does.
No one trusts anyone and the betrayal and plot twists were a given. Was some of it predictable? Yes but it was still so very worth it. But of course, the way the story unfolds and through Talin’s inner monologue you start to have hope and positive feelings at certain possibilities. Like a found family trope that never quite made it or that real feelings exist.
The problem with getting an ARC is I need to wait even longer for book two but also looking forward to this reread one day.
Please be advised that this book is DARK, especially religious trauma.
March 28, 2026
woah! me giving a review? more shocking than you think! but arc review incoming! so i don’t really write reviews on here and when i do it’s always something witty and sarcastic even when i love the book. but holy shit this book was so good! i want to thank sourcebooks and C2E2 for making this the book club book this year! and for letting me be lucky enough to get an arc of the book and being able to read this! the way that religious guilt and trauma are in this book is done in a way that feels original and not a repeat of any other book. the fact that sin slowly eats away and kills someone blows my mind. talin is so well written and depicts someone wanting to live despite the cultic and religious trauma she’s been. that she needs to sin to live yet sinning is killing her. the romance aspect of the book is perfect! it’s not an in your face type of romance that takes away from the plot. i for once feel like it adds to the plot and keeps the readers captivated! can’t wait to discuss this book further with other readers at c2e2! talin is my favorite little sinner.
February 18, 2026
I will never get over the fact that I received one of thirty copies of this bound manuscript. So beyond cool. Thank you again, @mk_lobb and @sourcebookscasa ❤️
I absolutely loved this book, and finished it so fast. I simply couldn’t put it down. This dark romantasy was so unique, but also easy to follow. Imagine a world where sinning causes a terminal illness called blood rot. The elite wouldn’t chance death, so they hire sinners to do their bidding.
Talin is a sinner, forced between the two most powerful men, to essentially save herself. Her background was tragic, and I loved the flashbacks to her family and the cult that they belonged to. The slow burn romance/spice in this one was so on point, but it didn’t overtake the story at all, which was so plot driven. Don’t worry, you’ll still be obsessed with Slade, though. 🔥
I feel so lucky to have read this one so early, BUT the cliffhanger has me wanting book two like right now. I’m already planning a reread in the future, because I loved this so much!
Romantasy fans, put The Dark in Her Veins on your calendar, because you will absolutely want to read this! Just a PSA- there are tons of trigger warnings, so be sure to check those out!
I absolutely loved this book, and finished it so fast. I simply couldn’t put it down. This dark romantasy was so unique, but also easy to follow. Imagine a world where sinning causes a terminal illness called blood rot. The elite wouldn’t chance death, so they hire sinners to do their bidding.
Talin is a sinner, forced between the two most powerful men, to essentially save herself. Her background was tragic, and I loved the flashbacks to her family and the cult that they belonged to. The slow burn romance/spice in this one was so on point, but it didn’t overtake the story at all, which was so plot driven. Don’t worry, you’ll still be obsessed with Slade, though. 🔥
I feel so lucky to have read this one so early, BUT the cliffhanger has me wanting book two like right now. I’m already planning a reread in the future, because I loved this so much!
Romantasy fans, put The Dark in Her Veins on your calendar, because you will absolutely want to read this! Just a PSA- there are tons of trigger warnings, so be sure to check those out!
May 22, 2026
Got an arc through Edelweiss
Listen, I had fun with this. I thought the worldbuilding was neat and the antics to kill god* were intriguing enough that I looked forward to reading this a little bit each day. Also the mmc reminds me SO MUCH of Scien Brofiise from Virche Evermore, who I LOOOOOVE, which was just an added plus for MY enjoyment specifically.
I do feel the ending was a little abrupt and I think I wanted a little MORE from it, but not enough to feel like we spent the whole book waiting for something to happen.
So yeah, give me a Scien coded bastard man and that’s enough for me to have a good time.
Listen, I had fun with this. I thought the worldbuilding was neat and the antics to kill god* were intriguing enough that I looked forward to reading this a little bit each day. Also the mmc reminds me SO MUCH of Scien Brofiise from Virche Evermore, who I LOOOOOVE, which was just an added plus for MY enjoyment specifically.
I do feel the ending was a little abrupt and I think I wanted a little MORE from it, but not enough to feel like we spent the whole book waiting for something to happen.
So yeah, give me a Scien coded bastard man and that’s enough for me to have a good time.
Did Not Finish
March 20, 2026Nope. Not feeling this one. Already feeling formulaic 🥴
Read
March 28, 2026I will post my review closer to the release date of 25th of August but I definitely enjoyed this 😁
June 7, 2026
This spoke to my religious trauma in a freaky way. Eagerly awaiting book 2!
Review of advance copy
2.75 stars rounded up
Overall, I’m leaving this book feeling lukewarm about it.
There was a lot about it that I loved—like the sinful magic system, the gritty setting, most of the plot twists, and the dynamic between Talin, the Prophet, and the Warden.
I also thought the plot was pretty compelling, at least to start. But the sex scenes started to get in the way of the plot, and most of them ruined the flow of the story, in my opinion.
I think my biggest issue with this book, however, is Talin. I like that she’s a badass doing what she has to do to survive…but the way she murders so many people like it’s nothing, and l has no real remorse over the innocent people she kills, makes it hard for me to root for her. I was hoping that she would at least start to regret her decisions a little bit towards the end of the novel, but we don’t even get that. Thus, despite the cliffhanger ending, it’s hard for me to feel bad for her and want to know what will happen to her in the next book.
Having said that, I probably will read the sequel when it eventually comes out, because I think I’m curious enough. But given this first book isn’t even out yet, I fear that I‘ll no longer care by the time the sequel is released.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
Overall, I’m leaving this book feeling lukewarm about it.
There was a lot about it that I loved—like the sinful magic system, the gritty setting, most of the plot twists, and the dynamic between Talin, the Prophet, and the Warden.
I also thought the plot was pretty compelling, at least to start. But the sex scenes started to get in the way of the plot, and most of them ruined the flow of the story, in my opinion.
I think my biggest issue with this book, however, is Talin. I like that she’s a badass doing what she has to do to survive…but the way she murders so many people like it’s nothing, and l has no real remorse over the innocent people she kills, makes it hard for me to root for her. I was hoping that she would at least start to regret her decisions a little bit towards the end of the novel, but we don’t even get that. Thus, despite the cliffhanger ending, it’s hard for me to feel bad for her and want to know what will happen to her in the next book.
Having said that, I probably will read the sequel when it eventually comes out, because I think I’m curious enough. But given this first book isn’t even out yet, I fear that I‘ll no longer care by the time the sequel is released.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
Did Not Finish
May 14, 2026DNF. I'm out. Every time I picked this up to read, I suddenly found at least 5 other things that I needed to do. I finally sat down and made myself read some, but the religious BS completely turned me off right away. No thanks. Next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨ ARC Review: The Dark in Her Veins by M.K. Lobb ✨
Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️ Content note: This book includes themes such as murder, religious cults (with implied abuse), abusive parents, knife play, power dynamics/BDSM undertones, and overall violence. It’s not overly graphic, but it is slightly dark.
If you love:
🖤 Morally grey characters
🖤 High tension and layered dialogue
🖤 Religion-based worldbuilding
🖤 Slow-burn, magnetic chemistry and dynamics
🖤 Constantly questioning everyone’s motives
…this will absolutely deliver. It gets under your skin and STAYS THERE.
______
Honestly, what was I even doing with my life before this book??? I finished it at 3am… and then just lay there staring at the wall.
And before you go into this not knowing what I didn’t know: this is the FIRST book in a series. There WILL be more!!! And thank god for that, considering how this ends (I NEED THE NEXT BOOK MORE THAN AIR).
I don’t even know where to begin—other than to say: I was completely, utterly addicted!!!
From the very first chapters, this story hooks you. The pacing is genuinely one of its strongest elements—tight, intentional, and impossible to put down. It’s the kind of book where you tell yourself “just one more chapter...” and suddenly it’s 2am.
And the concept is incredible!
The entire framework around sin, religion, and power is so original and so sharply executed. It’s deeply embedded into the characters, the systems, and the emotional core of the story. The way religion is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING. It feels disturbingly plausible and realistic, and that’s what makes it hit so hard.
What stood out to me most is how the book constantly keeps you on edge. I was second-guessing everyone. Every interaction feels loaded, every conversation has layers, and the tension is sustained so well throughout. It honestly feels like an absolute masterclass in how to balance high-stakes intrigue with deeply personal, messy relationships.
A huge part of that comes from the dynamic between Talin, Gabriel, and the Warden. The way their stories and motivations are woven together is SO well done. It’s rare to find a trio where both the chemistry and the conflict feel this balanced, but it was PERFECTLY done here.
I CANNOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK ENOUGH!! Let me dig into why.
✨ The plot ✨
In a world where sin isn’t just a concept but a source of power, Talin Keller serves the Prophet—carrying out brutal acts in his name, each one literally etched into her skin as dark marks of what she’s done. Raised within his system but never truly believing in it, she has spent her life surviving it.
Now, she wants out.
But leaving isn’t simple—not when everything she is has been shaped by the very system she’s trying to escape, and not when the Prophet still holds power over her.
As she begins to push toward freedom, Talin finds herself caught between survival, control, and the dangerous pull of the compelling Warden who feeds on sin—drawn to her for everything she refuses to confess. Their interactions are charged from the very beginning, a tense push and pull of control, resistance, and undeniable chemistry.
And the closer she gets to freedom, the more dangerous everything becomes.
✨ Talin Keller (FMC) ✨
I LOVED her.
She is unapologetically morally grey—sharp, calculating, and willing to make difficult choices, even when they cost her something. Literally! There’s no attempt to soften her, no need to justify her actions in a way that makes them “acceptable”—and that’s exactly what makes her so compelling to me.
And I loved seeing her in action. Her fight scenes are SO good!! The way she moves, the way she thinks, the way she calculates in the middle of chaos—she is smart and controlled. She doesn’t just survive those moments, she dominates them. You can feel how capable she is, how dangerous she is, and how much of that has been shaped by everything she’s been forced to become.
She holds her own in every single situation, and it makes her even more satisfying to read.
But what truly elevates her character is HOW we come to understand her.
The short flashback chapters throughout the book were BRILLIANT. They’re quick, but they carry so much weight. Piece by piece, they build this incredibly clear picture of her upbringing—how she was raised, what she was exposed to, and how that environment shaped her into who she is now.
And the indoctrination… oh my god.
It’s not loud or obvious at first, more subtle, creeping, NORMALISED. You see how it embeds itself into everyday life, how it becomes truth simply because it’s repeated often enough, enforced strongly enough. The way religion and belief is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING, especially because you can see exactly how and why it works.
But what makes Talin more fascinating is that she never fully belongs to it.
She exists within that system, she operates inside it, she even benefits from it in some ways—but there’s always that distance and awareness, that sense that she’s slightly outside of it all, observing as much as she’s participating. And that tension (between who she is, what she’s done, and what she believes) is SO well done.
She is both a product of that world and a subtle resistance to it.
✨ The Warden (MMC) ✨
The Warden—a feared, almost mythical figure who rules the Trench, a lawless haven for sinners—is everything I want in a morally grey MMC.
He is controlled, dangerous, unreadable, and devastatingly compelling!!!
Every single scene he’s in feels charged. There’s this constant sense that he’s holding something back, that there’s always more beneath the surface, and that restraint makes him even MORE compelling.
It’s in the way he watches, the way he speaks, the way he DOES or DOESN’T react. And god, it makes him ten times hotter. The intensity about him pulls you in, you can feel it in his presence in every scene, even when he’s barely doing anything. It’s all tension, all control, all CONTAINED energy… and it’s SO effective.
But what makes him stand out SO MUCH is his connection to sin.
The fact that he feeds on people’s sins, on their confessions, is SUCH a genius concept—and the way it’s used in the story adds this entire extra layer to his character. It’s not just power, it’s HUNGER, it’s NEED, it’s VISCERAL.
And then you put him next to Talin… the sinner of all sinners!
A girl whose body is marked by everything she’s done, by every killing carried out in the Prophet’s name. Someone who is carrying so much, who has so much to confess—and SHE REFUSES TO GIVE IT TO HIM. Did I mention I LOVE her???
He is DRAWN to her because of her sins. Not only is he intrigued, he is pulled toward her in this way that feels inevitable (only thing I can compare it to is how vampires need blood to survive or they will grow hungry and weak… and I LOVE this dynamic!!! The Warden basically needs confessions like vampires need blood).
That tension between WANTING and WITHHOLDING??? Absolutely unreal. Talin represents everything he feeds on, everything he NEEDS—and yet she denies him access to it.
So yes, his dynamic with her is INSANE.
Because it’s not just regular attraction between the main leads, it’s tension layered on tension. Power vs resistance, hunger vs control, confession vs silence. Every interaction between them feels like a negotiation, like a test or something that could tip at any moment.
Their chemistry is absolutely MAGNETIC. It’s sooo sharp, complicated, and dangerous. There’s curiosity, but also restraint, challenge, and something that feels constantly on the verge of snapping.
You can FEEL the push and pull in every conversation. The way they circle each other, the way neither of them fully gives in... and when they do? GOD. It’s not romantic tension, it’s psychological, emotional, almost predatory in a way that fits the world PERFECTLY.
... and don’t even get me started on the BDSM vibes… I shouldn’t say too much, but oh my god. ALSO… did I mention knife play? No? Oops. Must’ve been a typo (SCREAMING, CRYING, THROWING UP. JUST TRUST ME ON THIS).
✨ Gabriel Markovich (The Prophet) ✨
I can’t say too much without spoiling things, but Gabriel—the Prophet Talin works for, and is desperately trying to break free from—is… SUCH a standout.
He is one of those characters that is subtly, deeply terrifying—not because he’s loud or overtly cruel, but because of how controlled he is. Everything about him feels deliberate and measured. He rarely raises his voice or loses composure, and somehow that makes him infinitely more unsettling.
There’s this calm, almost gentle way he speaks that makes everything he says feel… reasonable. And that’s what makes him so dangerous.
He doesn’t command in obvious ways—he guides and reframes. He takes something horrific and presents it as necessary, as justified, as RIGHT. The way he talks about sin, about duty, about purpose… it’s so carefully constructed that you can see EXACTLY how people begin to follow him as The Prophet.
You can see it so clearly in his interactions with Talin. He positions himself as someone who understands her, who sees her, who is giving her meaning, all while subtly, constantly shaping her into exactly what he wants her to be, including, of course, recruiting her when she was young.
He is SUCH an enthralling character who had me looking forward to every single scene with him.
And I have to say this, even though I doubt many people reading this will have read it, but if you’ve read The Lymond Chronicles… to describe just HOW compelling Gabriel is and why you should read this, all I’ll need to say is he reminded me so much of Graham Reid Malett (also Gabriel), and I was LOSING MY MIND over it. The same chilling presence, the same kind of religious manipulation, the same way of speaking. It’s actually insane how similar the vibe is in certain moments, it had me genuinely screaming at how unsettling it felt.
(And if you DO know the Lymond Chronicles… you have AMAZING taste). Anyway, moving on.
✨ The dialogue ✨
The dialogue in this book is INSANE too. Not just with The Warden (PLEASE, all scenes with him gave me heart palpitations), but especially Gabriel. Every conversation he is in feels like walking into a trap. He never says more than he needs to, but everything he does say carries weight.
There’s always something underneath it. A second meaning, a shift in power happening mid-conversation that you almost don’t catch until it’s already happened.
There are moments where he says something that sounds reassuring, and yet it leaves you feeling uneasy... Like something just moved into place and you don’t fully understand how.
That’s how well it’s written!
Some of the most tense scenes in this book are just conversations with him, genuinely. And yet the stakes feel so high because you can feel how much is happening beneath all that.
I genuinely found myself holding my breath during most of his scenes…!!! But honestly, I felt this way with The Warden too, my god...
✨ A 5-star read that lingers, haunts, and CONSUMES ✨
This book is dark, intense, and SO intelligently crafted. It’s absolutely addictive and deeply unsettling in the BEST way.
The themes of religion, control, and indoctrination are explored with such nuance and care that they feel disturbingly REAL. You don’t just see how this world works, you understand WHY it works, how people are shaped by it, how belief is built, reinforced, and weaponised.
And that’s what makes it hit so hard!! Because nothing in this book feels simple.
Every character is layered, every interaction has weight, every conversation feels like it’s doing more than it seems. There’s always something you’re trying to grasp, even as the story pulls you forward.
And it NEVER lets up.
The tension, the pacing, the emotional stakes, it all works together so seamlessly that you don’t even realise how deeply you’re invested until you physically cannot stop reading.
There’s so much subtle foreshadowing and so many small hints layered throughout, I loved noticing them, and it was so satisfying when I realised I’d been right, lol.
Did I mention I can’t wait for the next one???
Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️ Content note: This book includes themes such as murder, religious cults (with implied abuse), abusive parents, knife play, power dynamics/BDSM undertones, and overall violence. It’s not overly graphic, but it is slightly dark.
If you love:
🖤 Morally grey characters
🖤 High tension and layered dialogue
🖤 Religion-based worldbuilding
🖤 Slow-burn, magnetic chemistry and dynamics
🖤 Constantly questioning everyone’s motives
…this will absolutely deliver. It gets under your skin and STAYS THERE.
______
Honestly, what was I even doing with my life before this book??? I finished it at 3am… and then just lay there staring at the wall.
And before you go into this not knowing what I didn’t know: this is the FIRST book in a series. There WILL be more!!! And thank god for that, considering how this ends (I NEED THE NEXT BOOK MORE THAN AIR).
I don’t even know where to begin—other than to say: I was completely, utterly addicted!!!
From the very first chapters, this story hooks you. The pacing is genuinely one of its strongest elements—tight, intentional, and impossible to put down. It’s the kind of book where you tell yourself “just one more chapter...” and suddenly it’s 2am.
And the concept is incredible!
The entire framework around sin, religion, and power is so original and so sharply executed. It’s deeply embedded into the characters, the systems, and the emotional core of the story. The way religion is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING. It feels disturbingly plausible and realistic, and that’s what makes it hit so hard.
What stood out to me most is how the book constantly keeps you on edge. I was second-guessing everyone. Every interaction feels loaded, every conversation has layers, and the tension is sustained so well throughout. It honestly feels like an absolute masterclass in how to balance high-stakes intrigue with deeply personal, messy relationships.
A huge part of that comes from the dynamic between Talin, Gabriel, and the Warden. The way their stories and motivations are woven together is SO well done. It’s rare to find a trio where both the chemistry and the conflict feel this balanced, but it was PERFECTLY done here.
I CANNOT RECOMMEND THIS BOOK ENOUGH!! Let me dig into why.
✨ The plot ✨
In a world where sin isn’t just a concept but a source of power, Talin Keller serves the Prophet—carrying out brutal acts in his name, each one literally etched into her skin as dark marks of what she’s done. Raised within his system but never truly believing in it, she has spent her life surviving it.
Now, she wants out.
But leaving isn’t simple—not when everything she is has been shaped by the very system she’s trying to escape, and not when the Prophet still holds power over her.
As she begins to push toward freedom, Talin finds herself caught between survival, control, and the dangerous pull of the compelling Warden who feeds on sin—drawn to her for everything she refuses to confess. Their interactions are charged from the very beginning, a tense push and pull of control, resistance, and undeniable chemistry.
And the closer she gets to freedom, the more dangerous everything becomes.
✨ Talin Keller (FMC) ✨
I LOVED her.
She is unapologetically morally grey—sharp, calculating, and willing to make difficult choices, even when they cost her something. Literally! There’s no attempt to soften her, no need to justify her actions in a way that makes them “acceptable”—and that’s exactly what makes her so compelling to me.
And I loved seeing her in action. Her fight scenes are SO good!! The way she moves, the way she thinks, the way she calculates in the middle of chaos—she is smart and controlled. She doesn’t just survive those moments, she dominates them. You can feel how capable she is, how dangerous she is, and how much of that has been shaped by everything she’s been forced to become.
She holds her own in every single situation, and it makes her even more satisfying to read.
But what truly elevates her character is HOW we come to understand her.
The short flashback chapters throughout the book were BRILLIANT. They’re quick, but they carry so much weight. Piece by piece, they build this incredibly clear picture of her upbringing—how she was raised, what she was exposed to, and how that environment shaped her into who she is now.
And the indoctrination… oh my god.
It’s not loud or obvious at first, more subtle, creeping, NORMALISED. You see how it embeds itself into everyday life, how it becomes truth simply because it’s repeated often enough, enforced strongly enough. The way religion and belief is weaponised here is genuinely CHILLING, especially because you can see exactly how and why it works.
But what makes Talin more fascinating is that she never fully belongs to it.
She exists within that system, she operates inside it, she even benefits from it in some ways—but there’s always that distance and awareness, that sense that she’s slightly outside of it all, observing as much as she’s participating. And that tension (between who she is, what she’s done, and what she believes) is SO well done.
She is both a product of that world and a subtle resistance to it.
✨ The Warden (MMC) ✨
The Warden—a feared, almost mythical figure who rules the Trench, a lawless haven for sinners—is everything I want in a morally grey MMC.
He is controlled, dangerous, unreadable, and devastatingly compelling!!!
Every single scene he’s in feels charged. There’s this constant sense that he’s holding something back, that there’s always more beneath the surface, and that restraint makes him even MORE compelling.
It’s in the way he watches, the way he speaks, the way he DOES or DOESN’T react. And god, it makes him ten times hotter. The intensity about him pulls you in, you can feel it in his presence in every scene, even when he’s barely doing anything. It’s all tension, all control, all CONTAINED energy… and it’s SO effective.
But what makes him stand out SO MUCH is his connection to sin.
The fact that he feeds on people’s sins, on their confessions, is SUCH a genius concept—and the way it’s used in the story adds this entire extra layer to his character. It’s not just power, it’s HUNGER, it’s NEED, it’s VISCERAL.
And then you put him next to Talin… the sinner of all sinners!
A girl whose body is marked by everything she’s done, by every killing carried out in the Prophet’s name. Someone who is carrying so much, who has so much to confess—and SHE REFUSES TO GIVE IT TO HIM. Did I mention I LOVE her???
He is DRAWN to her because of her sins. Not only is he intrigued, he is pulled toward her in this way that feels inevitable (only thing I can compare it to is how vampires need blood to survive or they will grow hungry and weak… and I LOVE this dynamic!!! The Warden basically needs confessions like vampires need blood).
That tension between WANTING and WITHHOLDING??? Absolutely unreal. Talin represents everything he feeds on, everything he NEEDS—and yet she denies him access to it.
So yes, his dynamic with her is INSANE.
Because it’s not just regular attraction between the main leads, it’s tension layered on tension. Power vs resistance, hunger vs control, confession vs silence. Every interaction between them feels like a negotiation, like a test or something that could tip at any moment.
Their chemistry is absolutely MAGNETIC. It’s sooo sharp, complicated, and dangerous. There’s curiosity, but also restraint, challenge, and something that feels constantly on the verge of snapping.
You can FEEL the push and pull in every conversation. The way they circle each other, the way neither of them fully gives in... and when they do? GOD. It’s not romantic tension, it’s psychological, emotional, almost predatory in a way that fits the world PERFECTLY.
... and don’t even get me started on the BDSM vibes… I shouldn’t say too much, but oh my god. ALSO… did I mention knife play? No? Oops. Must’ve been a typo (SCREAMING, CRYING, THROWING UP. JUST TRUST ME ON THIS).
✨ Gabriel Markovich (The Prophet) ✨
I can’t say too much without spoiling things, but Gabriel—the Prophet Talin works for, and is desperately trying to break free from—is… SUCH a standout.
He is one of those characters that is subtly, deeply terrifying—not because he’s loud or overtly cruel, but because of how controlled he is. Everything about him feels deliberate and measured. He rarely raises his voice or loses composure, and somehow that makes him infinitely more unsettling.
There’s this calm, almost gentle way he speaks that makes everything he says feel… reasonable. And that’s what makes him so dangerous.
He doesn’t command in obvious ways—he guides and reframes. He takes something horrific and presents it as necessary, as justified, as RIGHT. The way he talks about sin, about duty, about purpose… it’s so carefully constructed that you can see EXACTLY how people begin to follow him as The Prophet.
You can see it so clearly in his interactions with Talin. He positions himself as someone who understands her, who sees her, who is giving her meaning, all while subtly, constantly shaping her into exactly what he wants her to be, including, of course, recruiting her when she was young.
He is SUCH an enthralling character who had me looking forward to every single scene with him.
And I have to say this, even though I doubt many people reading this will have read it, but if you’ve read The Lymond Chronicles… to describe just HOW compelling Gabriel is and why you should read this, all I’ll need to say is he reminded me so much of Graham Reid Malett (also Gabriel), and I was LOSING MY MIND over it. The same chilling presence, the same kind of religious manipulation, the same way of speaking. It’s actually insane how similar the vibe is in certain moments, it had me genuinely screaming at how unsettling it felt.
(And if you DO know the Lymond Chronicles… you have AMAZING taste). Anyway, moving on.
✨ The dialogue ✨
The dialogue in this book is INSANE too. Not just with The Warden (PLEASE, all scenes with him gave me heart palpitations), but especially Gabriel. Every conversation he is in feels like walking into a trap. He never says more than he needs to, but everything he does say carries weight.
There’s always something underneath it. A second meaning, a shift in power happening mid-conversation that you almost don’t catch until it’s already happened.
There are moments where he says something that sounds reassuring, and yet it leaves you feeling uneasy... Like something just moved into place and you don’t fully understand how.
That’s how well it’s written!
Some of the most tense scenes in this book are just conversations with him, genuinely. And yet the stakes feel so high because you can feel how much is happening beneath all that.
I genuinely found myself holding my breath during most of his scenes…!!! But honestly, I felt this way with The Warden too, my god...
✨ A 5-star read that lingers, haunts, and CONSUMES ✨
This book is dark, intense, and SO intelligently crafted. It’s absolutely addictive and deeply unsettling in the BEST way.
The themes of religion, control, and indoctrination are explored with such nuance and care that they feel disturbingly REAL. You don’t just see how this world works, you understand WHY it works, how people are shaped by it, how belief is built, reinforced, and weaponised.
And that’s what makes it hit so hard!! Because nothing in this book feels simple.
Every character is layered, every interaction has weight, every conversation feels like it’s doing more than it seems. There’s always something you’re trying to grasp, even as the story pulls you forward.
And it NEVER lets up.
The tension, the pacing, the emotional stakes, it all works together so seamlessly that you don’t even realise how deeply you’re invested until you physically cannot stop reading.
There’s so much subtle foreshadowing and so many small hints layered throughout, I loved noticing them, and it was so satisfying when I realised I’d been right, lol.
Did I mention I can’t wait for the next one???
April 11, 2026
If wasted potential was a book this is it. The idea is so fascinating about sin, leaving its mark on you and how that affects society but the thing is we never see the society. We don’t see the city.
I don’t know what the city looks like the time period and the setting of the city is so inconsistent there’s cars but the trains don’t have lights. They refer to T-shirts, the guns have magazines, and they’re not revolvers like they would’ve been in a Victorian era, they have phones and also know the dangers of secondhand smoke?
I think about halfway through the book, The city gets described as smog choked, and that’s the most it’s ever described even though half the book takes place in this city. And don’t even get me started on the characters they’re flat wooden and so dumb. The plot twist is so obvious and the character is completely oblivious to it even though it’s literally right in her face after she learns about the existence of these other beings. The relationship feels so forced. And the one spicy scene in this book was probably the worst spicy scene I have ever read in my entire life.
Oh and it’s the biggest she’s ever seen cause of course it is 🙄
One star. Really the only reason I finished this is because I liked using my new fountain pen right in the margins and it was really fun to underline and write out all the plot and inconsistencies and things about the world that just don’t make any sense.
I don’t know what the city looks like the time period and the setting of the city is so inconsistent there’s cars but the trains don’t have lights. They refer to T-shirts, the guns have magazines, and they’re not revolvers like they would’ve been in a Victorian era, they have phones and also know the dangers of secondhand smoke?
I think about halfway through the book, The city gets described as smog choked, and that’s the most it’s ever described even though half the book takes place in this city. And don’t even get me started on the characters they’re flat wooden and so dumb. The plot twist is so obvious and the character is completely oblivious to it even though it’s literally right in her face after she learns about the existence of these other beings. The relationship feels so forced. And the one spicy scene in this book was probably the worst spicy scene I have ever read in my entire life.
Oh and it’s the biggest she’s ever seen cause of course it is 🙄
One star. Really the only reason I finished this is because I liked using my new fountain pen right in the margins and it was really fun to underline and write out all the plot and inconsistencies and things about the world that just don’t make any sense.
February 4, 2026
ARC in hand and I already know this is going to be my kind of unwell 🥵
Noir romantasy + moral rot + a city that monetizes violence is exactly the sort of premise that gets me feral on principle. The vibe reads like:
wet cobblestones,
gloved hands,
corrupted holiness, and
A romance that is absolutely not safe for anyone’s nervous system.
I haven’t finished yet, but the concept alone is doing damage in the best way. I’ll be back with a real review once I’ve been properly RUINED 😉
Noir romantasy + moral rot + a city that monetizes violence is exactly the sort of premise that gets me feral on principle. The vibe reads like:
wet cobblestones,
gloved hands,
corrupted holiness, and
A romance that is absolutely not safe for anyone’s nervous system.
I haven’t finished yet, but the concept alone is doing damage in the best way. I’ll be back with a real review once I’ve been properly RUINED 😉
May 1, 2026
If I could give this more than 5 stars I would.
Amazing first sentence hook… “Like most sinners, I do my best work at night.”
M.K Lobb always is amazing at setting the scene for a fantasy world. Every chapters beginning and end had me craving more.
I don’t know how she managed to combine
political intrigue , religion, dystopian world building, cults, and a love story with a truly strong female main character…but I’m in awe.
The book flashes between then vs now for the FMC and is carefully plotted out for a breathtaking story.
The pace is fast and thrilling at every turn. You won’t be able to put it down. (So worth ruining my sleep schedule to read it)
The quotes at the beginning of every chapter are amazing. It’s similar to Fourth Wing in how lore is introduced through a fake book quote at the top of each chapter. (It’s not just done in fourth wing but it’s a good example)
For a 300 word book the amount of twists that WORK and were enjoyable is amazing.
It honestly reminds me of Siths but also Twilight which when combined has created something even better.
This book is perfection.
I can think of so many taglines for this book and none would do it justice. Here’s a few that came to mind tho LOL:
“I devoured this book quicker than Bloodrot.”
“Beautiful but heartbreaking. Stunning foray into adult fantasy.“
“The ultimate slow burn that’s worth the pain.” It’s actually a slow burn on steroids and a masterpiece in world building.
I throughly enjoyed being in Talins inner world as I was reading. Move this book to the top of your TBR immediately. You won’t regret it.
If you’re not typically a dark romance fan…but like fantasy, trust me, give this book a try.
Notes:
- Consent yay
- I NEED A MAP
- Giving confession is wild. I’m not religious but the world she’s built it’s fascinating
- morally grey enemies to lovers
- This man is edging her to death.
- Banter
- Masochist
- Interlaying lore
- Subtly queer characters
- Allusions to rape
- Knife play
- Man with piercings and tattoos
- Single pov
- I have a theory on his tattoos…
- What is THE TRUTH
Amazing first sentence hook… “Like most sinners, I do my best work at night.”
M.K Lobb always is amazing at setting the scene for a fantasy world. Every chapters beginning and end had me craving more.
I don’t know how she managed to combine
political intrigue , religion, dystopian world building, cults, and a love story with a truly strong female main character…but I’m in awe.
The book flashes between then vs now for the FMC and is carefully plotted out for a breathtaking story.
The pace is fast and thrilling at every turn. You won’t be able to put it down. (So worth ruining my sleep schedule to read it)
The quotes at the beginning of every chapter are amazing. It’s similar to Fourth Wing in how lore is introduced through a fake book quote at the top of each chapter. (It’s not just done in fourth wing but it’s a good example)
For a 300 word book the amount of twists that WORK and were enjoyable is amazing.
It honestly reminds me of Siths but also Twilight which when combined has created something even better.
This book is perfection.
I can think of so many taglines for this book and none would do it justice. Here’s a few that came to mind tho LOL:
“I devoured this book quicker than Bloodrot.”
“Beautiful but heartbreaking. Stunning foray into adult fantasy.“
“The ultimate slow burn that’s worth the pain.” It’s actually a slow burn on steroids and a masterpiece in world building.
I throughly enjoyed being in Talins inner world as I was reading. Move this book to the top of your TBR immediately. You won’t regret it.
If you’re not typically a dark romance fan…but like fantasy, trust me, give this book a try.
Notes:
- Consent yay
- I NEED A MAP
- Giving confession is wild. I’m not religious but the world she’s built it’s fascinating
- morally grey enemies to lovers
- This man is edging her to death.
- Banter
- Masochist
- Interlaying lore
- Subtly queer characters
- Allusions to rape
- Knife play
- Man with piercings and tattoos
- Single pov
- I have a theory on his tattoos…
- What is THE TRUTH
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dear Publisher/M.K. Lobb,
Please accept this as my formal request to receive book two as soon as humanly possible, lest I simply cease to exist.
Responses and compliance may be forwarded to my lawyer, Howdareya Hurtmethisway of I’msuing Theconcept of Reading Inc., sent directly to my address in Hell, or delivered via mail, carrier pigeon, smoke signal, or whatever method is most convenient.
Yours sincerely,
A reader who is not entirely sure her heart will ever be whole again.
What? They want an actual review?
Jeez. Picky, picky.
This is everything I wanted books about religious deconstruction to be. As someone who has never really been part of a religion, I was completely floored by the grief, decay, control, and desperation woven through the faith systems Lobb builds here. It is heartbreaking to read, and even more heartbreaking because it feels so painfully believable.
The premise is something I ate up all of six words into the Netgalley pitch, and was executed incredibly. This is a world where sin can be seen on skin, and the world treats it as a disease. Our main character Talin is haunted by her past of church-based barbecues is a hired sinner. Hired to commit crimes in the name of a cult leader, while each day her “sin” etches more evidence onto her flesh.
Talin was an incredible point of view character. She’s believable, intelligent, likeable (kinda or at least very enjoyable to dislike.) Her arc towards an eventual reveal shattered something fundamental into me. The snippets we get between her and her sister and a little bit with her parents was honestly agonising. A bit of a caricature but it really worked in this setting. You’re left wanting better right till the end.
Then slapped in the face and you’ll thank the book for it.
Every inch of this cult feels thought through, from the rituals to the too-good-to-be-true charismatic leader at its centre. You can feel the cracks in the walls from the beginning, but Lobb does such an incredible job of showing how and why people not only want to believe, but need to believe. That is where the horror really sits: not just in the manipulation, but in the ache of wanting something to save you.
Gabriel, our cult leader - sorry, prophet, has this horrendously slimy but familiar feel to him. He’s so believable as a villain, and it was either awe worthy or sickening. Probably both.
Honestly, the plot, the premise, the themes, the villain. Everything. It was stunning. And terrifyingly relevant.
Oh, and then there is the absolutely unhinged amount of batty sex. That is my only real criticism (hey hey don’t come for me.) In a very short amount of page space we get a lot of the horizontal tango. I really liked it, it was well written and interesting.
It did just sometimes feel like a distraction from the plot. Not to the extent of hey whys there plot in my porn, but inching that direction.
I would be tempted to keep this book far away from TikTok, because the Rhysand/Xaden girlies would go absolutely feral over Slade. Said without judgement, obviously. I also went feral over Slade.
And, after several minutes of furious calculator-slamming, I can confirm that I am far more emotionally invested in this ensemble cast than I am comfortable admitting in a public book review.
I cannot undersell this enough. Read this BOOOOOK!
Please accept this as my formal request to receive book two as soon as humanly possible, lest I simply cease to exist.
Responses and compliance may be forwarded to my lawyer, Howdareya Hurtmethisway of I’msuing Theconcept of Reading Inc., sent directly to my address in Hell, or delivered via mail, carrier pigeon, smoke signal, or whatever method is most convenient.
Yours sincerely,
A reader who is not entirely sure her heart will ever be whole again.
What? They want an actual review?
Jeez. Picky, picky.
This is everything I wanted books about religious deconstruction to be. As someone who has never really been part of a religion, I was completely floored by the grief, decay, control, and desperation woven through the faith systems Lobb builds here. It is heartbreaking to read, and even more heartbreaking because it feels so painfully believable.
The premise is something I ate up all of six words into the Netgalley pitch, and was executed incredibly. This is a world where sin can be seen on skin, and the world treats it as a disease. Our main character Talin is haunted by her past of church-based barbecues is a hired sinner. Hired to commit crimes in the name of a cult leader, while each day her “sin” etches more evidence onto her flesh.
Talin was an incredible point of view character. She’s believable, intelligent, likeable (kinda or at least very enjoyable to dislike.) Her arc towards an eventual reveal shattered something fundamental into me. The snippets we get between her and her sister and a little bit with her parents was honestly agonising. A bit of a caricature but it really worked in this setting. You’re left wanting better right till the end.
Then slapped in the face and you’ll thank the book for it.
Every inch of this cult feels thought through, from the rituals to the too-good-to-be-true charismatic leader at its centre. You can feel the cracks in the walls from the beginning, but Lobb does such an incredible job of showing how and why people not only want to believe, but need to believe. That is where the horror really sits: not just in the manipulation, but in the ache of wanting something to save you.
Gabriel, our cult leader - sorry, prophet, has this horrendously slimy but familiar feel to him. He’s so believable as a villain, and it was either awe worthy or sickening. Probably both.
Honestly, the plot, the premise, the themes, the villain. Everything. It was stunning. And terrifyingly relevant.
Oh, and then there is the absolutely unhinged amount of batty sex. That is my only real criticism (hey hey don’t come for me.) In a very short amount of page space we get a lot of the horizontal tango. I really liked it, it was well written and interesting.
It did just sometimes feel like a distraction from the plot. Not to the extent of hey whys there plot in my porn, but inching that direction.
I would be tempted to keep this book far away from TikTok, because the Rhysand/Xaden girlies would go absolutely feral over Slade. Said without judgement, obviously. I also went feral over Slade.
And, after several minutes of furious calculator-slamming, I can confirm that I am far more emotionally invested in this ensemble cast than I am comfortable admitting in a public book review.
I cannot undersell this enough. Read this BOOOOOK!
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