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Fruit of the Flesh
Behind the glamour of Gilded Age New York, a marriage of convenience between an artisan and a ballerina masks their shared appetite for revenge in this darkly seductive gothic romance.
In early 1900s New York, former ballerina Petronille De Villier makes an unconventional Marry struggling sculptor Arkady Kamenev. For her, it’s an escape from her family’s unsavory legacy. For him, the De Villier name promises the patronage his art desperately needs. It should be a simple arrangement.
But beneath their marriage of convenience lurks a darker recognition. In each other, they see a reflection of their own dangerous appetites. As buried secrets surface and bodies begin disappearing, Petronille and Arkady discover their union runs deeper than social advantage. Their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear who is which.
Bound by law, God, and blood, they must decide if their monstrous natures will tear them apart or forge them into something terribly wonderful together. In a world where nothing is quite what it seems, two creatures of shadow learn that true love requires a taste for the macabre.
In early 1900s New York, former ballerina Petronille De Villier makes an unconventional Marry struggling sculptor Arkady Kamenev. For her, it’s an escape from her family’s unsavory legacy. For him, the De Villier name promises the patronage his art desperately needs. It should be a simple arrangement.
But beneath their marriage of convenience lurks a darker recognition. In each other, they see a reflection of their own dangerous appetites. As buried secrets surface and bodies begin disappearing, Petronille and Arkady discover their union runs deeper than social advantage. Their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear who is which.
Bound by law, God, and blood, they must decide if their monstrous natures will tear them apart or forge them into something terribly wonderful together. In a world where nothing is quite what it seems, two creatures of shadow learn that true love requires a taste for the macabre.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 20, 2026
746 people are currently reading
30889 people want to read
About the author
I.V. Ophelia
5 books2,023 followersUSA Today Bestselling author I.V. Ophelia is known for the gothic vampire series The Poisoner. Born in small-town New England, she now haunts the streets of New York City, writing the most unhinged tales she can conjure. When not crafting gothic romance, she works as a full-time artist, hoards nineteenth-century gowns and antique furniture, dotes on her menagerie of pets, and plots her next literary transgression.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 513 reviews
September 1, 2025
Thank you so so much I.V. Ophelia for the opportunity to ARC read!! <3
This beautifully dark and gritty gothic romance consumed me, I could not put this down. The writing was beautiful, poetic and atmospheric. There was so much intrigue and the perfect amount of mystery which made reading this almost like solving a puzzle, I was picking up every piece of information that's gradually fed to us throughout this story to bring together the final picture.
I am obsessed with the themes and imagery in this, the overarching theme of hunger, wanting, desire. The characters Petronille and Arkady are complex with imperfections and each their own secrets. The spice in this was unhinged (the best kind) and often left me picking my jaw up off the floor.
Such a good gothic romance standalone!
This beautifully dark and gritty gothic romance consumed me, I could not put this down. The writing was beautiful, poetic and atmospheric. There was so much intrigue and the perfect amount of mystery which made reading this almost like solving a puzzle, I was picking up every piece of information that's gradually fed to us throughout this story to bring together the final picture.
I am obsessed with the themes and imagery in this, the overarching theme of hunger, wanting, desire. The characters Petronille and Arkady are complex with imperfections and each their own secrets. The spice in this was unhinged (the best kind) and often left me picking my jaw up off the floor.
Such a good gothic romance standalone!
September 18, 2025
2.75 ★— If I had to sum up Fruit of the Flesh in one phrase, it would be: style over substance.
It’s got an interesting setup, some cool character ideas, a gorgeous cover, and lines of dialogue and descriptions that would look great on a moodboard or in an aesthetic quote post. But when it came to actually putting all of that together into a story, it just didn’t work for me.
Set in early 1900s New York, the book follows Petronille de Villier, a 24-year-old former ballerina from a wealthy family. She’s lived a life of privilege, but also of various forms of abuse under her parents. When she marries clay artisan Arkady Kamenev, it’s a quiet rebellion against their expectations and as the story goes on, the two of them uncover the hidden darkness in each other, turning their marriage of convenience into something more.
The problem is that the story feels disjointed. The book drops us straight into Petronille’s wedding day, and from there it’s like being handed little snapshots: glimpses of conversations, flashes of darkness, moments that could’ve been powerful. But without the grounding or buildup that makes you care, those moments never really land — or at least didn’t land for me. There’s almost no sense of the world or the characters’ pasts, so instead of feeling immersed, I felt detached and couldn’t quite get pulled into the narrative.
And that’s what really disappointed me, because the ideas are fantastic. A sculptor with a dark penchant, a traumatized ballerina with twisted family baggage, macabre undertones woven into their relationship, some exploration of kink… it’s exactly the kind of thing I would love to really get lost in. As someone who grew up a teenager fascinated with Perfume by Patrick Süskind and enjoys exploring messed-up characters, I should’ve and wanted to like this. But it mostly just bored me, because the thriller and horror aspect didn’t really go deep enough for me and the romance, while sometimes delivering scenes with some pretty prose, didn’t convince me either, because of the general disconnect to the story I felt during my read.
I think readers who are already fans of this author will find what they’re looking for here, but for me it just didn’t hit the way I hoped. Great ideas, interesting setup, but ultimately not enough depth to keep me invested.
________________________
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
It’s got an interesting setup, some cool character ideas, a gorgeous cover, and lines of dialogue and descriptions that would look great on a moodboard or in an aesthetic quote post. But when it came to actually putting all of that together into a story, it just didn’t work for me.
Set in early 1900s New York, the book follows Petronille de Villier, a 24-year-old former ballerina from a wealthy family. She’s lived a life of privilege, but also of various forms of abuse under her parents. When she marries clay artisan Arkady Kamenev, it’s a quiet rebellion against their expectations and as the story goes on, the two of them uncover the hidden darkness in each other, turning their marriage of convenience into something more.
The problem is that the story feels disjointed. The book drops us straight into Petronille’s wedding day, and from there it’s like being handed little snapshots: glimpses of conversations, flashes of darkness, moments that could’ve been powerful. But without the grounding or buildup that makes you care, those moments never really land — or at least didn’t land for me. There’s almost no sense of the world or the characters’ pasts, so instead of feeling immersed, I felt detached and couldn’t quite get pulled into the narrative.
And that’s what really disappointed me, because the ideas are fantastic. A sculptor with a dark penchant, a traumatized ballerina with twisted family baggage, macabre undertones woven into their relationship, some exploration of kink… it’s exactly the kind of thing I would love to really get lost in. As someone who grew up a teenager fascinated with Perfume by Patrick Süskind and enjoys exploring messed-up characters, I should’ve and wanted to like this. But it mostly just bored me, because the thriller and horror aspect didn’t really go deep enough for me and the romance, while sometimes delivering scenes with some pretty prose, didn’t convince me either, because of the general disconnect to the story I felt during my read.
I think readers who are already fans of this author will find what they’re looking for here, but for me it just didn’t hit the way I hoped. Great ideas, interesting setup, but ultimately not enough depth to keep me invested.
________________________
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2025
When I tell you that the writing in this book is literal poetry, I am not lying. The mystery, the suspense, the romance, the tension. I loved every aspect of it. The way I felt like I was in 1900s New York with these characters was insane.
December 2, 2025
I.V. Ophelia is a writer who doesn’t just write nonfiction, she writes actual poetry. I love when I am reading a book, and it feels so much more than a dark romance. It’s almost dreamlike, like you are stepping into the 1900’s itself and experienced how dark and gritty it was. This is a true dark gothic romance with themes of gore, people who are full of secrets, and secret identities.
The story opens with a marriage between two strangers who are seemingly attracted to one another, or may even come to care for each other, but nothing is ever how it seems, and they not only have their own secrets, but also have extremely dark pasts. When we met Patronille, you soon come to realize that something is off about her. You can tell that she is keeping something from us and isn’t giving us the whole picture of what her story is and her “affliction.”
Arkady was someone that Patroneille needed in her life. He had such a bold and confidant personality that I felt like he kept her grounded and showed her how to grow and to become a better version of herself. He always made sure she was taken care of and would come to her rescue like a dark knight, ugh. Just *swoon* I knew he had a dark past, especially with how his personality was and how he had no issues with his method of drawing, IYKYK.
In true Ophelia fashion, the ending took me by complete surprise, and I was shocked. In a way to sum this book up, it was complete unhinged, but in the absolute best way possible. The spice was dark and deprived, the characters were so unhinged and morbid, but they somehow fit together so perfectly and found that were exactly what each other needed. This story was so beautifully dark and captivating, and I cannot wait for mor people to read it and devour it the way I did.
“I want you,” I said quietly. “I need you,” he replied raggedly, keeping me tight against the door.
“Tell me to stop.” His voice was strained. “Stop holding back,” I begged. “I want all of you, every last unsavory piece of you.” He grunted and left love bites down my shoulder, the back of my neck. “I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
Fruit of the Flesh will be out on January 20, 2026!
*Thank you so so much to NetGalley, Montlake, and the incredible I. V. Ophelia for the ARC!*
The story opens with a marriage between two strangers who are seemingly attracted to one another, or may even come to care for each other, but nothing is ever how it seems, and they not only have their own secrets, but also have extremely dark pasts. When we met Patronille, you soon come to realize that something is off about her. You can tell that she is keeping something from us and isn’t giving us the whole picture of what her story is and her “affliction.”
Arkady was someone that Patroneille needed in her life. He had such a bold and confidant personality that I felt like he kept her grounded and showed her how to grow and to become a better version of herself. He always made sure she was taken care of and would come to her rescue like a dark knight, ugh. Just *swoon* I knew he had a dark past, especially with how his personality was and how he had no issues with his method of drawing, IYKYK.
In true Ophelia fashion, the ending took me by complete surprise, and I was shocked. In a way to sum this book up, it was complete unhinged, but in the absolute best way possible. The spice was dark and deprived, the characters were so unhinged and morbid, but they somehow fit together so perfectly and found that were exactly what each other needed. This story was so beautifully dark and captivating, and I cannot wait for mor people to read it and devour it the way I did.
“I want you,” I said quietly. “I need you,” he replied raggedly, keeping me tight against the door.
“Tell me to stop.” His voice was strained. “Stop holding back,” I begged. “I want all of you, every last unsavory piece of you.” He grunted and left love bites down my shoulder, the back of my neck. “I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
Fruit of the Flesh will be out on January 20, 2026!
*Thank you so so much to NetGalley, Montlake, and the incredible I. V. Ophelia for the ARC!*
January 20, 2026
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!*
Rtc…
Tropes that makes me more excited for the book:
- Brat/ Brat tamer
- Marriage of Convience
- Rich Girl x Gold Digger
- Ballerina FMC x Sculptor MMC
- Artist x Muse
- They'd kill for each other
- Gilded age NYC
- Dual POV
Rtc…
Tropes that makes me more excited for the book:
- Brat/ Brat tamer
- Marriage of Convience
- Rich Girl x Gold Digger
- Ballerina FMC x Sculptor MMC
- Artist x Muse
- They'd kill for each other
- Gilded age NYC
- Dual POV
January 22, 2026
“The curse of the flesh is to be consumed.”
I have no idea, NO IDEA, how I feel about this book 🍑
The characters…ex-ballerina & sculptor 🩰 A marriage of convenience with one liners like “I bet you’d cry if I made you finish the greens on your plate.” 🥦
The spice: umm..lots of interesting objects🫣
The twist ? 🩸🔥🩸absolute chaos, the last few chapters physically slapped me in the face and then bam, the book was finished. Maybe I’m unwell because it’s a standalone ?
SO…I’m immediately diving into a re-read to figure out the PURE SHOCK this book has left me in. I don’t know if it’s good or bad shock 😵💫
Rating *pending* the 3 stars ⭐️ is purely because the anticipation for this book release had me in a chokehold, the character art and cover art is stunning 🙌🏼
I have no idea, NO IDEA, how I feel about this book 🍑
The characters…ex-ballerina & sculptor 🩰 A marriage of convenience with one liners like “I bet you’d cry if I made you finish the greens on your plate.” 🥦
The spice: umm..lots of interesting objects🫣
The twist ? 🩸🔥🩸absolute chaos, the last few chapters physically slapped me in the face and then bam, the book was finished. Maybe I’m unwell because it’s a standalone ?
SO…I’m immediately diving into a re-read to figure out the PURE SHOCK this book has left me in. I don’t know if it’s good or bad shock 😵💫
Rating *pending* the 3 stars ⭐️ is purely because the anticipation for this book release had me in a chokehold, the character art and cover art is stunning 🙌🏼
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC + ALC REVIEW
--ARC REVIEW--
“Do you think,” I whispered, eyes fluttering open, “this could be how Eve felt in the garden?”
He smiled like it was a silly question. “If the snake were half as lucky as I am now, I would consider the temptation worthwhile.”
A gothic marriage of convenience with an ex-ballerina and a sculptor? SAY NO MORE. Ophelia's books have always had me in a chokehold ever since The Poisoner was released back in 2024. So when she announced a gothic historical marriage of convenience, I knew it would be one of my top reads.
And it certainly was.
Petronille de Villier is our former ballerina from FMC, who comes from a rich family and is pulled into a marriage with the poor sculptor, Arkady Kamenev.
Marriage of convenience, yes, but these two fall hard for each other, and it had me blushing like crazy at times. The spice was also well written as usual, and it definitely made me curious about some of the stuff that was written 👀🤣
Ophelia always writes characters who have deep, complex personalities, and also a world with descriptions that when you read it, it feels as if you can easily insert yourself into it and imagine every scene vividly.
This book is the perfect mix of gothic horror and dark romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
A million stars for this book. I will ALWAYS be talking about it, thank you very much.
--ALC REVIEW--
You mean we get to have we get to have Teddy Hamilton narrate Arkady, and Luna Rey narrate Petre? What a good day to be into audiobooks.
Their voices blended seamlessly with their characters, and they reflected them perfectly. If my ears were people, they would be crawling on the floor from how hot this audiobook was lol. The suspense and the romance were as palpable as reading it for the first time, and Luna and Teddy put everything into this performance to perfect this audiobook. Had me hooked!
------------------------------------------------
update: Aug. 28
okay seriously, only 10% in, and this is one of the hottest books with the most orgasmic writing i've ever read
----------------------------
*rubs hands together like a fly*
THIS BOOK IS GOING TO HE MY ENTIRE PERSONALITY GOODBYE. IM SO HERE FOR MY LOML OPHELIA AND THE HOTNESS THAT WILL BE IN THIS BOOK 😩🩷
sculptor x ballerina ? SAY LESSSS🩰
🍑 Standalone
🩰 HEA
🍑 Ex-Ballerina × Sculptor
🩰 Marriage of Convenience
🍑 1901 NYC
🩰 Murder and Mystery
🍑 Proper BDSM Practices
🩰 Themes of Autonomy, anti-capitalism, not-so-polite society, toxic families
--ARC REVIEW--
“Do you think,” I whispered, eyes fluttering open, “this could be how Eve felt in the garden?”
He smiled like it was a silly question. “If the snake were half as lucky as I am now, I would consider the temptation worthwhile.”
A gothic marriage of convenience with an ex-ballerina and a sculptor? SAY NO MORE. Ophelia's books have always had me in a chokehold ever since The Poisoner was released back in 2024. So when she announced a gothic historical marriage of convenience, I knew it would be one of my top reads.
And it certainly was.
Petronille de Villier is our former ballerina from FMC, who comes from a rich family and is pulled into a marriage with the poor sculptor, Arkady Kamenev.
Marriage of convenience, yes, but these two fall hard for each other, and it had me blushing like crazy at times. The spice was also well written as usual, and it definitely made me curious about some of the stuff that was written 👀🤣
Ophelia always writes characters who have deep, complex personalities, and also a world with descriptions that when you read it, it feels as if you can easily insert yourself into it and imagine every scene vividly.
This book is the perfect mix of gothic horror and dark romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
A million stars for this book. I will ALWAYS be talking about it, thank you very much.
--ALC REVIEW--
You mean we get to have we get to have Teddy Hamilton narrate Arkady, and Luna Rey narrate Petre? What a good day to be into audiobooks.
Their voices blended seamlessly with their characters, and they reflected them perfectly. If my ears were people, they would be crawling on the floor from how hot this audiobook was lol. The suspense and the romance were as palpable as reading it for the first time, and Luna and Teddy put everything into this performance to perfect this audiobook. Had me hooked!
------------------------------------------------
update: Aug. 28
okay seriously, only 10% in, and this is one of the hottest books with the most orgasmic writing i've ever read
----------------------------
*rubs hands together like a fly*
THIS BOOK IS GOING TO HE MY ENTIRE PERSONALITY GOODBYE. IM SO HERE FOR MY LOML OPHELIA AND THE HOTNESS THAT WILL BE IN THIS BOOK 😩🩷
sculptor x ballerina ? SAY LESSSS🩰
🍑 Standalone
🩰 HEA
🍑 Ex-Ballerina × Sculptor
🩰 Marriage of Convenience
🍑 1901 NYC
🩰 Murder and Mystery
🍑 Proper BDSM Practices
🩰 Themes of Autonomy, anti-capitalism, not-so-polite society, toxic families
September 7, 2025
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for offering me an eARC in exchange of a review!
Fruit of the Flesh is a another dark delicacy from I.V. Ophelia I couldn't wait to consume.
Taking place during the Gilded Age, an ex-ballerina and a sculptor bind themselves to a marriage of convenience for their own selfish desires, what could possibly go wrong?
I can say both morbid curiosity and I.V. Ophelia's entrancing writing had me flipping through the pages to unfold what lies beneath the façade of Petronille De Villier and her elusive new husband, Arkady Kamenev.
It took a while to figure them out but I did not expect the "twist". Absolutely flabbergasted I'm disappointed in myself that I did not piece it together.
Maybe that has more to do with the fact that I felt as if I randomly stumbled into a story from the very start and forced myself to be patient until I could get a feel of where the story was headed. I wouldn't say it felt disjointed as much as it felt abrupt.
Although the book did take place during the Gilded Age, I wouldn't describe anything as gilded thanks to its gothic backdrop. As if something much darker and haunting was looming.
While it is a marriage of convenience and what could've been a story of rags to riches for a struggling sculptor like Arkady, he finds himself tangled into the web of his wife and in-laws' mysteries and darkest secrets.
To Petre this marriage was an opening performance of defiance and she was the perfect muse to Arkady whose artisan hands sculpted her desires and unfurled her body's cravings—both erotic and morbid.
It had many elements I enjoy in an I.V. Ophelia book, who splendidly crafts such dark romances, however I was left with wanting more or wish some of it had been fleshed out enough. Especially in the first half.
You can find the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. This is definitely a dark book with content that might be triggering for sensitive readers or readers with specific triggers.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for offering me an eARC in exchange of a review!
Fruit of the Flesh is a another dark delicacy from I.V. Ophelia I couldn't wait to consume.
Taking place during the Gilded Age, an ex-ballerina and a sculptor bind themselves to a marriage of convenience for their own selfish desires, what could possibly go wrong?
I can say both morbid curiosity and I.V. Ophelia's entrancing writing had me flipping through the pages to unfold what lies beneath the façade of Petronille De Villier and her elusive new husband, Arkady Kamenev.
It took a while to figure them out but I did not expect the "twist". Absolutely flabbergasted I'm disappointed in myself that I did not piece it together.
Maybe that has more to do with the fact that I felt as if I randomly stumbled into a story from the very start and forced myself to be patient until I could get a feel of where the story was headed. I wouldn't say it felt disjointed as much as it felt abrupt.
Although the book did take place during the Gilded Age, I wouldn't describe anything as gilded thanks to its gothic backdrop. As if something much darker and haunting was looming.
While it is a marriage of convenience and what could've been a story of rags to riches for a struggling sculptor like Arkady, he finds himself tangled into the web of his wife and in-laws' mysteries and darkest secrets.
To Petre this marriage was an opening performance of defiance and she was the perfect muse to Arkady whose artisan hands sculpted her desires and unfurled her body's cravings—both erotic and morbid.
It had many elements I enjoy in an I.V. Ophelia book, who splendidly crafts such dark romances, however I was left with wanting more or wish some of it had been fleshed out enough. Especially in the first half.
You can find the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. This is definitely a dark book with content that might be triggering for sensitive readers or readers with specific triggers.
January 9, 2026
I.V. Ophelia does it again; her writing and the way she can pull you into her gothic atmosphere is absolutely remarkable.
I was completely and utterly enraptured by Fruit of the Flesh.
In sickness, in health, and maybe dark secrets? The story reels you right into New York 1900s, following Arkady, an artisan, and Petronille, an ex-ballerina put into a marriage of convenience.
On every page, I was devouring the haunting prose. The characters are layered, morbid, and peculiar. The world is creepy, dreadful, yet mysteriously alluring.
Petronille first appears as spoiled (bratty), selfish, pessimistic, and a bit frustrating. Though despite all that, underneath the flesh and the feminine rage, she just wants to be seen and understood. I was feeling all the emotions for her; she’s socially awkward and does not GAF to ruin your appetite. The character growth on my girl was phenomenal and wicked. Also, I loved the descriptions of her outfits, from the tailored elegance to the colors she chose, and her taste in fruit.
Arkady, the “Brat Tamer”, my new favorite MMC. I was immediately drawn to him; he’s attentive, confident, smart, introverted, mischievous, and loves to galvanize Petre. This man, although he seemed quite mysterious and unhinged with his desires, I was fixated. His curiosity and his ability to unravel Petronille’s desires had me shook. He was patient and willing to do anything for his ✨wife✨, and his backstory made me love him more. I love a dark, poetic, tortured artist. Let’s just say intrusive thoughts for the win.
It delves into intimacy, kinks, emotions, and desires. Proper BDSM, with consent and communication. Although the sexual themes seemed heavy, they were moments of tenderness which made it all the more sensual and appealing. Scorching slow burn indeed 😮💨😩🔥
The story explores the darkest corners of the mind, the secrets buried deep, and the depravities that are inflicted. It’s thought-provoking, historically accurate, and reflective. In retrospect, where society or things we cannot control try to consume us. The demand for justice and those who go against us.
The ending had me shook. Throughout the book, I was theorizing and wanting to know what was underneath the surface, and when it was time for the revelations, I was sitting with my jaw on the floor (murder mystery is my favorite).
I.V. Ophelia is an auto-buy author for me and, without a doubt, my all-time favorite gothic romance author.
Thank you to NetGalley and I.V. Ophelia for the opportunity to receive this arc. I am so excited for FOTF to be released soon!
Tropes:
🍑Gothic Romance
🩰Psychological Horror
🍑Standalone
🩰Gilded Age NY
🍑Ex-Ballerina x Sculptor
🩰Marriage of Convenience
🍑Murder and Mystery
🩰Proper BDSM practices with consent
🍑Toxic families
🩰A Not so polite society
🍑Themes of Autonomy
🩰Anti-capitalism
I was completely and utterly enraptured by Fruit of the Flesh.
In sickness, in health, and maybe dark secrets? The story reels you right into New York 1900s, following Arkady, an artisan, and Petronille, an ex-ballerina put into a marriage of convenience.
On every page, I was devouring the haunting prose. The characters are layered, morbid, and peculiar. The world is creepy, dreadful, yet mysteriously alluring.
Petronille first appears as spoiled (bratty), selfish, pessimistic, and a bit frustrating. Though despite all that, underneath the flesh and the feminine rage, she just wants to be seen and understood. I was feeling all the emotions for her; she’s socially awkward and does not GAF to ruin your appetite. The character growth on my girl was phenomenal and wicked. Also, I loved the descriptions of her outfits, from the tailored elegance to the colors she chose, and her taste in fruit.
Arkady, the “Brat Tamer”, my new favorite MMC. I was immediately drawn to him; he’s attentive, confident, smart, introverted, mischievous, and loves to galvanize Petre. This man, although he seemed quite mysterious and unhinged with his desires, I was fixated. His curiosity and his ability to unravel Petronille’s desires had me shook. He was patient and willing to do anything for his ✨wife✨, and his backstory made me love him more. I love a dark, poetic, tortured artist. Let’s just say intrusive thoughts for the win.
It delves into intimacy, kinks, emotions, and desires. Proper BDSM, with consent and communication. Although the sexual themes seemed heavy, they were moments of tenderness which made it all the more sensual and appealing. Scorching slow burn indeed 😮💨😩🔥
The story explores the darkest corners of the mind, the secrets buried deep, and the depravities that are inflicted. It’s thought-provoking, historically accurate, and reflective. In retrospect, where society or things we cannot control try to consume us. The demand for justice and those who go against us.
The ending had me shook. Throughout the book, I was theorizing and wanting to know what was underneath the surface, and when it was time for the revelations, I was sitting with my jaw on the floor (murder mystery is my favorite).
I.V. Ophelia is an auto-buy author for me and, without a doubt, my all-time favorite gothic romance author.
Thank you to NetGalley and I.V. Ophelia for the opportunity to receive this arc. I am so excited for FOTF to be released soon!
Tropes:
🍑Gothic Romance
🩰Psychological Horror
🍑Standalone
🩰Gilded Age NY
🍑Ex-Ballerina x Sculptor
🩰Marriage of Convenience
🍑Murder and Mystery
🩰Proper BDSM practices with consent
🍑Toxic families
🩰A Not so polite society
🍑Themes of Autonomy
🩰Anti-capitalism
August 26, 2025
My jaw? On the FLOOR.
WTH OPHELIA!?? I was not expecting that ending at ALL. Oh my god.
This.. this surprised me in the best of ways. This is my first I.V. Ophelia, but definitely won’t be the last. It’s probably one of the most unique plot lines I’ve ever read.
When I tell you the fact that he buries a body for her is just A SCRATCH of what’s to come… I mean it.
The writing immediately pulls you into this golden, dream-like gothic setting. I genuinely felt the sun on my cheeks, peaking through the canopy and shrubs. You’re thrown into a marriage happening between two strangers, but they end up much more entwined by their secrets than they could ever imagine.
I liked how when we get to know Petronille, there’s always this nagging feeling: ‘she’s not telling us something’ or ‘she has more to her than meets the eye’. She never backs down from a challenge, and she says it when she doesn’t think something is right.
Arkady is the perfect person for Petronille. He complements her personality, never judging her, but allowing the best environment for her to grow. He makes her feel safe and comfortable, regularly making sure she’s getting what she wants.
The way everything is described, from the theater’s ambiance to the vibrance of the fruit, to the horrific events, it just makes you feel so immersed. All your senses are turned on, and everything mentioned feels alluring.
That being said please understand that this contains some dark themes so you may want to look into that. You’ll definitely have a… b🩸🩸🩸dy good time that’s for sure.
Thank you so much to montlake for this earc.
WTH OPHELIA!?? I was not expecting that ending at ALL. Oh my god.
This.. this surprised me in the best of ways. This is my first I.V. Ophelia, but definitely won’t be the last. It’s probably one of the most unique plot lines I’ve ever read.
When I tell you the fact that he buries a body for her is just A SCRATCH of what’s to come… I mean it.
The writing immediately pulls you into this golden, dream-like gothic setting. I genuinely felt the sun on my cheeks, peaking through the canopy and shrubs. You’re thrown into a marriage happening between two strangers, but they end up much more entwined by their secrets than they could ever imagine.
I liked how when we get to know Petronille, there’s always this nagging feeling: ‘she’s not telling us something’ or ‘she has more to her than meets the eye’. She never backs down from a challenge, and she says it when she doesn’t think something is right.
Arkady is the perfect person for Petronille. He complements her personality, never judging her, but allowing the best environment for her to grow. He makes her feel safe and comfortable, regularly making sure she’s getting what she wants.
The way everything is described, from the theater’s ambiance to the vibrance of the fruit, to the horrific events, it just makes you feel so immersed. All your senses are turned on, and everything mentioned feels alluring.
That being said please understand that this contains some dark themes so you may want to look into that. You’ll definitely have a… b🩸🩸🩸dy good time that’s for sure.
Thank you so much to montlake for this earc.
October 1, 2025
Um???? Well the ending was genuinely INSANE and very shocking, I literally felt sick. Almost thought I missed a content warning but I guess it would be a spoiler to have it listed there??? Still...
Honestly, I wasn't hooked right away but the moment I reached 19%, I was so invested! I was really curious on how Arkady and Petronille's relationship would develop and found Arkady to be really sweet. But then around the 60% mark... I got bored again and tbh it was a struggle getting to the end. Hence, the overall 3 star rating.
I do feel like Petronille and Arkady didn't really have chemistry tbh. I get that Petronille's childhood is the result of how she is right now, but I can't deny that her character really annoyed me. I wish I could've liked her😭 Arkady I liked at first but also that turned into disinterest after a certain point mostly because their relationship was boring to me. Their individual characters were very underdeveloped in my opinion.
Also, it kind of felt like the plot was all over the place?? Like I thought I was missing something but no it really was just confusing. And the ending genuinely was so random and I guess looking back it makes sense now but still super random??? That reveal was very disgusting and I know that's the point but I guess learned I don't like reading about that!! But uh yeah, it was alright in the end. 3 stars for at least keeping me interest for a good amount of the book. Oh also, the art is super pretty!!
Thank you Montlake for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
Honestly, I wasn't hooked right away but the moment I reached 19%, I was so invested! I was really curious on how Arkady and Petronille's relationship would develop and found Arkady to be really sweet. But then around the 60% mark... I got bored again and tbh it was a struggle getting to the end. Hence, the overall 3 star rating.
I do feel like Petronille and Arkady didn't really have chemistry tbh. I get that Petronille's childhood is the result of how she is right now, but I can't deny that her character really annoyed me. I wish I could've liked her😭 Arkady I liked at first but also that turned into disinterest after a certain point mostly because their relationship was boring to me. Their individual characters were very underdeveloped in my opinion.
Also, it kind of felt like the plot was all over the place?? Like I thought I was missing something but no it really was just confusing. And the ending genuinely was so random and I guess looking back it makes sense now but still super random??? That reveal was very disgusting and I know that's the point but I guess learned I don't like reading about that!! But uh yeah, it was alright in the end. 3 stars for at least keeping me interest for a good amount of the book. Oh also, the art is super pretty!!
Thank you Montlake for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
January 23, 2026
3.5⭐️
Wow what a ride
A gothic romance with horror elements set in the 1900s following our retired Ballerina FMC Petre and our MMC Arkady an artisan who both agree to a marriage of convenience for very different reasons.
I honestly don’t know what to say for this review without giving any spoilers away honestly just go in blind and also note that yes you’re gonna be confused majority of the book but just know it starts clicking at like the 80% mark and it takes a very unexpected turn. I was very shocked.
Overall I really enjoyed this read. I liked the atmosphere, the tension between our couple, and the mystery throughout the book kept me intrigued. I also appreciated the underlying messaging in this book and the fact that it made me uncomfortable (as the gothic genre should) and paints a haunting story of how monsters are not always born but made.
Wow what a ride
A gothic romance with horror elements set in the 1900s following our retired Ballerina FMC Petre and our MMC Arkady an artisan who both agree to a marriage of convenience for very different reasons.
I honestly don’t know what to say for this review without giving any spoilers away honestly just go in blind and also note that yes you’re gonna be confused majority of the book but just know it starts clicking at like the 80% mark and it takes a very unexpected turn. I was very shocked.
Overall I really enjoyed this read. I liked the atmosphere, the tension between our couple, and the mystery throughout the book kept me intrigued. I also appreciated the underlying messaging in this book and the fact that it made me uncomfortable (as the gothic genre should) and paints a haunting story of how monsters are not always born but made.
September 5, 2025
Thank you Montlake, NetGalley and I. V. Ophelia for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I devoured this!!! And even this might be an understatement as I read the book in about 4 and a half hours!!! Literally couldn't put it down.
This was the best gothic horror and I would have NEVER predicted where it was going. I will never look at a peach the same after reading it!
The writing was sooo beautiful and captivating, the characters were soo well written and the spice definitely delivered!
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I devoured this!!! And even this might be an understatement as I read the book in about 4 and a half hours!!! Literally couldn't put it down.
This was the best gothic horror and I would have NEVER predicted where it was going. I will never look at a peach the same after reading it!
The writing was sooo beautiful and captivating, the characters were soo well written and the spice definitely delivered!
January 16, 2026
4.25/5 stars.
I stumbled upon I.V. Ophelia because I adored the first edition cover of The Poisoner. Went into it blind and very quickly realized that I loved her writing. The same goes for this book. Absolutely beautiful cover (a theme with Ophelia) and stunning writing as well. She has become an auto-buy/auto-read author to me.
Anyways, into the story. As I've already mentioned, the writing is wonderful. Her books are easy to read, engaging, and beautifully written. I loved the setting, loved the atmosphere, and I enjoyed the characters and their dynamics together. They didn't live up to Alina and Silas (The Poisoner), but they were a good runner up.
Overall, I found that I enjoyed the plot but it wasn't as exciting as I was hoping for.
I also felt that the book wrapped up a bit abruptly. I think this could've benefited from some extra length to make the ending feel a little more well-rounded.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
I stumbled upon I.V. Ophelia because I adored the first edition cover of The Poisoner. Went into it blind and very quickly realized that I loved her writing. The same goes for this book. Absolutely beautiful cover (a theme with Ophelia) and stunning writing as well. She has become an auto-buy/auto-read author to me.
Anyways, into the story. As I've already mentioned, the writing is wonderful. Her books are easy to read, engaging, and beautifully written. I loved the setting, loved the atmosphere, and I enjoyed the characters and their dynamics together. They didn't live up to Alina and Silas (The Poisoner), but they were a good runner up.
Overall, I found that I enjoyed the plot but it wasn't as exciting as I was hoping for.
I also felt that the book wrapped up a bit abruptly. I think this could've benefited from some extra length to make the ending feel a little more well-rounded.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
Want to read
June 6, 2025IM SEATED ✨✨
January 24, 2026
Still processing the last chapter ....
The writing is stunning and the tension is insane. But then the twist happened, I gasped, and the book just… finished? It felt unfinished to me .
"I did not know if I believed in God, but I believed there were things in this world that could move the soul, art being among the most powerful next to death."
The writing is stunning and the tension is insane. But then the twist happened, I gasped, and the book just… finished? It felt unfinished to me .
"I did not know if I believed in God, but I believed there were things in this world that could move the soul, art being among the most powerful next to death."
August 23, 2025
“Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.”
This line from the book really sums up my experience with it. Honestly, it has been my muse for a while now. Even before I read it, I was making edits about it. Finally getting to read it only confirmed why. It’s every bit as inspiring and beautiful as I hoped. I’ve been waiting almost a year for this book, so finally getting my hands on it felt surreal. Even though I haven’t had much time to read lately, I knew I had to make space for this one. And wow, it was worth it. Ophelia’s writing is so immersive and lyrical, but also easy to follow. It pulls you straight into the story without feeling heavy.
The vibes were exactly what I imagined from the blurb and all the stunning artworks the author shared beforehand. Everything about the atmosphere felt cohesive, rich, and aesthetically pleasing.
And the characters? I’m obsessed. Arkady has me in a chokehold fr. He completely ate. His personality surprised me in the best way, and I am a total simp. He is bold & confident in who he is & that was everything. He’s exactly what Petre needed.
Watching Petre’s growth, though, was so rewarding. She needed someone who could understand her, love her, value her & help her shine the way she’s meant to, and Arkady did just that. That man truly loved her and it was so cute.
“I want you,” I said quietly.
“I need you,” he replied
MHMMMM. HE IS A SIMP.
Together, they’re such a perfect match. Their relationship felt genuine, full of growth, and just so cute. Plus… they’re hotttt🫦
I can’t wait for more people to meet these two. I know they’re going to fall in love with them too.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This line from the book really sums up my experience with it. Honestly, it has been my muse for a while now. Even before I read it, I was making edits about it. Finally getting to read it only confirmed why. It’s every bit as inspiring and beautiful as I hoped. I’ve been waiting almost a year for this book, so finally getting my hands on it felt surreal. Even though I haven’t had much time to read lately, I knew I had to make space for this one. And wow, it was worth it. Ophelia’s writing is so immersive and lyrical, but also easy to follow. It pulls you straight into the story without feeling heavy.
The vibes were exactly what I imagined from the blurb and all the stunning artworks the author shared beforehand. Everything about the atmosphere felt cohesive, rich, and aesthetically pleasing.
And the characters? I’m obsessed. Arkady has me in a chokehold fr. He completely ate. His personality surprised me in the best way, and I am a total simp. He is bold & confident in who he is & that was everything. He’s exactly what Petre needed.
Watching Petre’s growth, though, was so rewarding. She needed someone who could understand her, love her, value her & help her shine the way she’s meant to, and Arkady did just that. That man truly loved her and it was so cute.
“I want you,” I said quietly.
“I need you,” he replied
MHMMMM. HE IS A SIMP.
Together, they’re such a perfect match. Their relationship felt genuine, full of growth, and just so cute. Plus… they’re hotttt🫦
I can’t wait for more people to meet these two. I know they’re going to fall in love with them too.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
August 29, 2025
•ARC review•
Release date: January 20th, 2026
Genre: gothic, dark romance
‘’Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.’’
I’m obsessed.
I.V. Ophelia did it again.
The vibes, the themes, the tropes, everything was morbidly on point. Ophelia is talented at creating tangible atmosphere that feels like a hug while simultaneously leaving you slightly uneasy. I would absolutely love to be absorbed by her books. Her characters are fleshed out and relatable to some extent. She said she would feed us alright and she did indeed.
“My dear, you are going to learn very quickly that I am most certainly worse than any man you know. Take comfort that you have such a force on your side.”
Arkady and Petronille were delightful. Their relationship was reservedly unhinged and sweet. For a long time, Arkady was on the fence, reserved, tough to crack. But oh my did he exude such sexiness, confidence. I fell in love so fast. Him wearing glasses while reading sealed the deal for me. Amongst a multitude of other reasons, of course. He was just such an immovable pillar.
‘’What was it like to be perceived by someone whose entire life was art? Would he see the beauty in my potential, or would he just see raw material?’’
In contrast, Petronille was such a brat, loud and throwing tantrums, clearly having underlying issues to deal with, namely self-esteem ones that Arkady was set on working on with her. Lets face it; her family left much to be desired. Petronille was a bit unhinged and impulsive, which irked Arkady but ultimately he couldn’t resist. Neither did I. Their moments together felt exquisitely intimate, I wish we got a little more of them.
“I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
I will say it again: anything Ophelia provides to us, I consume. And I consume it greedily.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Montlake and Ophelia’s team for the arc.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 /5
Spicy
•Gothic romance
•Mystery and suspense
•Horror
•Marriage of convenience
•BD$M
Release date: January 20th, 2026
Genre: gothic, dark romance
‘’Cathedrals for all eyes that can see, muses for all those who can feel.’’
I’m obsessed.
I.V. Ophelia did it again.
The vibes, the themes, the tropes, everything was morbidly on point. Ophelia is talented at creating tangible atmosphere that feels like a hug while simultaneously leaving you slightly uneasy. I would absolutely love to be absorbed by her books. Her characters are fleshed out and relatable to some extent. She said she would feed us alright and she did indeed.
“My dear, you are going to learn very quickly that I am most certainly worse than any man you know. Take comfort that you have such a force on your side.”
Arkady and Petronille were delightful. Their relationship was reservedly unhinged and sweet. For a long time, Arkady was on the fence, reserved, tough to crack. But oh my did he exude such sexiness, confidence. I fell in love so fast. Him wearing glasses while reading sealed the deal for me. Amongst a multitude of other reasons, of course. He was just such an immovable pillar.
‘’What was it like to be perceived by someone whose entire life was art? Would he see the beauty in my potential, or would he just see raw material?’’
In contrast, Petronille was such a brat, loud and throwing tantrums, clearly having underlying issues to deal with, namely self-esteem ones that Arkady was set on working on with her. Lets face it; her family left much to be desired. Petronille was a bit unhinged and impulsive, which irked Arkady but ultimately he couldn’t resist. Neither did I. Their moments together felt exquisitely intimate, I wish we got a little more of them.
“I’ll ruin you.” His voice low. “Spoil me,” I gasped. “Like I’m worth the trouble.”
I will say it again: anything Ophelia provides to us, I consume. And I consume it greedily.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Montlake and Ophelia’s team for the arc.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 /5
Spicy
•Gothic romance
•Mystery and suspense
•Horror
•Marriage of convenience
•BD$M
January 9, 2026
All my thanks to Simon & Schuster for the advanced listening copy! Teddy Hamilton is slaying the narrations these days!
I knew from the synopsis this one was going to be a ride. I love the decadence of Ophelia’s storytelling and she does an excellent job of setting the scene with aesthetic imagery and thoughtful prose that provokes the mind of the reader as they tumble further into the madness of whatever plot laid out before them.
Never in a million years could I have guessed where this was going. I was so intrigued by the dynamic of the leads’ chemistry development but as far as their individual personalities go, I knew *something* was going on but WOAH I never would have imagined *that* and honestly? Brilliant! A round of applause for I.V. Ophelia 👏🏻
I will be thinking about this book a lottttt and when I say this book delivers the most extreme example of “if he wanted to, he would…”
Just know that I mean that lol
(this book was hot hell…literally was sweating geezus)
I do wish that this audiobook had been a true duet narration but would still definitely recommend as an audio read! I’ll be rereading physically to annotate because so many of these quotes were crazy!
I knew from the synopsis this one was going to be a ride. I love the decadence of Ophelia’s storytelling and she does an excellent job of setting the scene with aesthetic imagery and thoughtful prose that provokes the mind of the reader as they tumble further into the madness of whatever plot laid out before them.
Never in a million years could I have guessed where this was going. I was so intrigued by the dynamic of the leads’ chemistry development but as far as their individual personalities go, I knew *something* was going on but WOAH I never would have imagined *that* and honestly? Brilliant! A round of applause for I.V. Ophelia 👏🏻
I will be thinking about this book a lottttt and when I say this book delivers the most extreme example of “if he wanted to, he would…”
Just know that I mean that lol
(this book was hot hell…literally was sweating geezus)
I do wish that this audiobook had been a true duet narration but would still definitely recommend as an audio read! I’ll be rereading physically to annotate because so many of these quotes were crazy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It actually pains me to give this book a 2. I absolutely adored The Poisoner and vowed to read everything Ophelia ever writes.
I was trying so hard to convince myself to bump this book up to a 3 star.
Unfortunately, it was just insanely disjointed, there were a lot of things that didn't really line up or weren't explained. I didn't really like Petronille at all, she was so wishy washy. 1 second she hated Arkady, next she loved him, then back and forth and back and forth. I think there was way too much going on for a standalone and the whole relationship was just really weird and Ophelia brushed past some pretty important moments in their relationship.
The surprise ending didn't make up for much, it would've been great if I didn't struggle through the entire book to get to it.
I'm really hoping that this is purely because it was a standalone instead of a series. I feel like it all could've been a lot better fleshed out and coherent if it were a series.
This is the hardest and most disappointing review I've ever had to write. 😮💨
I had also read back to back gothic novels before this and my mood had changed, however I don't think that would've affected my ratings too much.
I was trying so hard to convince myself to bump this book up to a 3 star.
Unfortunately, it was just insanely disjointed, there were a lot of things that didn't really line up or weren't explained. I didn't really like Petronille at all, she was so wishy washy. 1 second she hated Arkady, next she loved him, then back and forth and back and forth. I think there was way too much going on for a standalone and the whole relationship was just really weird and Ophelia brushed past some pretty important moments in their relationship.
The surprise ending didn't make up for much, it would've been great if I didn't struggle through the entire book to get to it.
I'm really hoping that this is purely because it was a standalone instead of a series. I feel like it all could've been a lot better fleshed out and coherent if it were a series.
This is the hardest and most disappointing review I've ever had to write. 😮💨
I had also read back to back gothic novels before this and my mood had changed, however I don't think that would've affected my ratings too much.
August 26, 2025
- sculptor x ballerina
- standalone
- gothic horrormance
- anti-capitalistic
- 1901 NYC
- mystery, murder, macabre
- mental health & family trauma
- on-page spice in chapters 9,11,14,,19,21,23,31,36
OH. MY. F*CKING GOD.
I don't know what to say???? LIKE THAT WAS THE MOST PERFECT GOTHIC HORROR AND I COULDN'T HAVE, IN NINE LIVES, PREDICTED WHERE IT WAS GOING. I'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO LOOK AT A PEACH, THE STONE FRUIT OF MY CHOICE THE SAME. I'M IN AWE. I'M SO SO OBSESSED THIS IS WHAT CLASSICS ARE MADE OF. PERFECTION IM JUST I HAD TO COME HERE AND SCREAM LIKE WOAH.
I don't know what to write in my review because NO WORDS COULD EVER DESCRIBE HOW PHENOMENALLY PENNED THIS GOTHIC DARK HORRORMANCE IS????? TOP TIER STORYTELLING, THIS IS WHAT THE GENRE WAS ALWAYS MEANT TO BE. Ophelia's writing is so gorgeous and timeless, I am forever undone by this book. I have this thing where I forget most of the things that happened in a book/show a few months after consuming it and so, a reread/rewatch almost feels like reading it afresh. With Fruit of the Flesh: I do NOT possess the patience to reread it. I want to forget about it RIGHT NOW and reread it right now. I SAW MYSELF IN PETRE, UNHINGED AS SHE GREW TO BE. Go lose yourself in this impeccable dark gothic tale of the artisan and the performer and don't forget to check the CWs lovelies <3
- standalone
- gothic horrormance
- anti-capitalistic
- 1901 NYC
- mystery, murder, macabre
- mental health & family trauma
- on-page spice in chapters 9,11,14,,19,21,23,31,36
OH. MY. F*CKING GOD.
I don't know what to say???? LIKE THAT WAS THE MOST PERFECT GOTHIC HORROR AND I COULDN'T HAVE, IN NINE LIVES, PREDICTED WHERE IT WAS GOING. I'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO LOOK AT A PEACH, THE STONE FRUIT OF MY CHOICE THE SAME. I'M IN AWE. I'M SO SO OBSESSED THIS IS WHAT CLASSICS ARE MADE OF. PERFECTION IM JUST I HAD TO COME HERE AND SCREAM LIKE WOAH.
I don't know what to write in my review because NO WORDS COULD EVER DESCRIBE HOW PHENOMENALLY PENNED THIS GOTHIC DARK HORRORMANCE IS????? TOP TIER STORYTELLING, THIS IS WHAT THE GENRE WAS ALWAYS MEANT TO BE. Ophelia's writing is so gorgeous and timeless, I am forever undone by this book. I have this thing where I forget most of the things that happened in a book/show a few months after consuming it and so, a reread/rewatch almost feels like reading it afresh. With Fruit of the Flesh: I do NOT possess the patience to reread it. I want to forget about it RIGHT NOW and reread it right now. I SAW MYSELF IN PETRE, UNHINGED AS SHE GREW TO BE. Go lose yourself in this impeccable dark gothic tale of the artisan and the performer and don't forget to check the CWs lovelies <3
January 14, 2026
✨4.5 stars✨
🌶️ 5 spice 🌶️
‘Giving him my heart meant it was possible to break it. To make one so vulnerable, was to give them the blade with the tip to your chest.’
What to expect in this
* Gothic horror romance
* 1900s New York
* Poor man x rich woman
* Marriage of convenience
* BDSM practices
* Artisan x ex ballerina
* Murder
* Mystery
* Insatiable hunger
Before I begin, I would like to thank Brilliance Publishing/audio for allowing me to read this as an audio arc on netgalley. As always, here is my honest thoughts.
I have been absolutely dying to read this book and now that I have read and finished the book…it was good as I thought it was going to be.
I.V. Ophelia’s writing is so atmospheric and haunting that you feel drawn in instantly. Alongside this, the mystery in her books always has you begging for more. I love her writing because it pushes limits and has you completely enthralled from beginning to end.
Petronille, our main FMC, an ex-ballerina going into a marriage of convenience to try and put distance between her and her corruption. This is where Arkady, our MMC, comes in. A struggling sculptor who will benefit greatly from Petronilles family wealth.
The two dance around one another with hidden secrets and insatiable appetites that you don’t know whether they will satisfy one another or destroy each other.
It was such a captivating story. Beautiful story telling and the horror and gore is made into something somewhat beautiful.
The relationship between Petronille and Arkady throughout the book is a whirlwind. Mystery and reveals erupting around them but they still find the beauty in one another desires.
I really think that those who love horror, historical settings, and desires would enjoy this book immensely!
Check TWs and CWs
Happy reading 🤍
🌶️ 5 spice 🌶️
‘Giving him my heart meant it was possible to break it. To make one so vulnerable, was to give them the blade with the tip to your chest.’
What to expect in this
* Gothic horror romance
* 1900s New York
* Poor man x rich woman
* Marriage of convenience
* BDSM practices
* Artisan x ex ballerina
* Murder
* Mystery
* Insatiable hunger
Before I begin, I would like to thank Brilliance Publishing/audio for allowing me to read this as an audio arc on netgalley. As always, here is my honest thoughts.
I have been absolutely dying to read this book and now that I have read and finished the book…it was good as I thought it was going to be.
I.V. Ophelia’s writing is so atmospheric and haunting that you feel drawn in instantly. Alongside this, the mystery in her books always has you begging for more. I love her writing because it pushes limits and has you completely enthralled from beginning to end.
Petronille, our main FMC, an ex-ballerina going into a marriage of convenience to try and put distance between her and her corruption. This is where Arkady, our MMC, comes in. A struggling sculptor who will benefit greatly from Petronilles family wealth.
The two dance around one another with hidden secrets and insatiable appetites that you don’t know whether they will satisfy one another or destroy each other.
It was such a captivating story. Beautiful story telling and the horror and gore is made into something somewhat beautiful.
The relationship between Petronille and Arkady throughout the book is a whirlwind. Mystery and reveals erupting around them but they still find the beauty in one another desires.
I really think that those who love horror, historical settings, and desires would enjoy this book immensely!
Check TWs and CWs
Happy reading 🤍
January 22, 2026
Trigger Warnings started this one off strong. Arranged marriage trope. Venomous banter. Extra spicy. This book was certainly such a ride. One leaving me wide eyed at some points. That plot twist was so wildly messed up. Recommended!
September 12, 2025
Let’s start with I.V. Ophelia is a must read author for me so when I got the opportunity to read the ARC for this book I was so excited. First and foremost the cover is beautiful and captivating. I love it.
As for the story itself, I have mixed emotions. I love the authors writing style, the way there was a little mystery sprinkled in here and there, the pieces didn’t even click into place until the end for me and I was shocked. I appreciated that the story wasn’t predictable at all, it truly had my mouth agape the last 10%.
As for the characters… I feel so deeply for Petronille, what a poor soul. I’m so glad she had Arkady. They are a perfect match.
As for the story itself, I have mixed emotions. I love the authors writing style, the way there was a little mystery sprinkled in here and there, the pieces didn’t even click into place until the end for me and I was shocked. I appreciated that the story wasn’t predictable at all, it truly had my mouth agape the last 10%.
As for the characters… I feel so deeply for Petronille, what a poor soul. I’m so glad she had Arkady. They are a perfect match.
January 26, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ Well, men can f*ck literally anything indeed.
September 17, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A haunting narrative that flows around themes of injustice, control, fear and desire.
I.V. Ophelia's prose is dreamy and compelling, poetic and moving in the way it grabs your attention and holds it there, forces you to look, to bear witness, to stare unflinching into the open mouth of romance and horror. I raced through the first half of the novel in a fevered state, desperate to see how the relationship between Petronille and Arkady would evolve and grow. I loved watching as she allowed herself to soften in his presence, and he in turn, allowed her to stand on her own, protecting her from the shadows. This is a romance that is painted in shades of gray, without the pressures of conforming to traditional morality or ethics -- these are not necessarily good, kind people, but they are also not monsters in their entirety. They deserve each other, in the best way.
The novel's strength is in the author's atmospheric writing style. Ophelia is phenomenal at her craft, blending genre influences through her work with subtle ingenuity. At the same time, the novel falls a little short in a few places -- while it is deserving of a second read to allow for awareness of all that is revealed at the end, so much of the plot is confusing and alienating to the reader. It could do with a little more bread-crumbing along the way.
Furthermore, there are times where exposition is delivered a bit clumsily. In particular, a specific moment between Petronille and her mother towards the end of the novel is somehow both difficult to grasp, and when the understanding finally dawns, falls somewhat flat because of how difficult it was to discern what was actually being insinuated all along. Reading between the lines in this novel is very important to get a decent understanding of the plot and the characters, and it may be a failure on my part as much as the author or the editor, but I am sure there are times when I didn't succeed on gleaning meaning from everything.
My only other piece of criticism is that I do wish the book came with a note on the cultural contexts of the Gilded Age -- were ballerinas really expected to escort their patrons? This wasn't something I myself was aware of, and I spent a lot of the novel perplexed by some of the societal norms that were being conveyed (were newspapers really publishing ladies' underwear?? It's hard to believe, but maybe).
I do have to applaud the author for the content warning at the beginning of the novel -- it prepares you well, while still leaving you curious for more.
Overall, I did really enjoy Fruit of the Flesh, despite its shortcomings. It's certainly a novel that will reveal more on a second read, which I plan to do when the book officially comes out.
A haunting narrative that flows around themes of injustice, control, fear and desire.
I.V. Ophelia's prose is dreamy and compelling, poetic and moving in the way it grabs your attention and holds it there, forces you to look, to bear witness, to stare unflinching into the open mouth of romance and horror. I raced through the first half of the novel in a fevered state, desperate to see how the relationship between Petronille and Arkady would evolve and grow. I loved watching as she allowed herself to soften in his presence, and he in turn, allowed her to stand on her own, protecting her from the shadows. This is a romance that is painted in shades of gray, without the pressures of conforming to traditional morality or ethics -- these are not necessarily good, kind people, but they are also not monsters in their entirety. They deserve each other, in the best way.
The novel's strength is in the author's atmospheric writing style. Ophelia is phenomenal at her craft, blending genre influences through her work with subtle ingenuity. At the same time, the novel falls a little short in a few places -- while it is deserving of a second read to allow for awareness of all that is revealed at the end, so much of the plot is confusing and alienating to the reader. It could do with a little more bread-crumbing along the way.
Furthermore, there are times where exposition is delivered a bit clumsily. In particular, a specific moment between Petronille and her mother towards the end of the novel is somehow both difficult to grasp, and when the understanding finally dawns, falls somewhat flat because of how difficult it was to discern what was actually being insinuated all along. Reading between the lines in this novel is very important to get a decent understanding of the plot and the characters, and it may be a failure on my part as much as the author or the editor, but I am sure there are times when I didn't succeed on gleaning meaning from everything.
My only other piece of criticism is that I do wish the book came with a note on the cultural contexts of the Gilded Age -- were ballerinas really expected to escort their patrons? This wasn't something I myself was aware of, and I spent a lot of the novel perplexed by some of the societal norms that were being conveyed (were newspapers really publishing ladies' underwear?? It's hard to believe, but maybe).
I do have to applaud the author for the content warning at the beginning of the novel -- it prepares you well, while still leaving you curious for more.
Overall, I did really enjoy Fruit of the Flesh, despite its shortcomings. It's certainly a novel that will reveal more on a second read, which I plan to do when the book officially comes out.
January 20, 2026
dnf, Its soooo boring
January 16, 2026
Love devours those who dare to taste it.
thoughts after reading:
🧐 … 🤔 … 🙂↕️🤲 may i please have some more? 🤭
no one writes characters who will literally haunt your every waking thought quite like i.v. ophelia. i read this arc back in sept, and these characters still linger in my mind.
ophelia immediately captivates you with her poetic prose, and transports you to 1901 NYC. the melancholic atmosphere feels equally gritty, haunting, and alluring. some pretty profound character lore is dropped early on, which hooked me and led me on a truly unforgettable 👀 exploration of not just one, but two complex character psyches battling between love and rage.
the reader doesn’t get a ton of backstory on the characters in the beginning (they're married right away) which seemed polarizing at first, however, looking back on this story, i personally loved this choice and dynamic as the reader. it felt like i was slowly peeling back the layers of these characters alongside their partner as the story progressed. and there are a LOT of layers. these two are complicated 😅, compassionate, and irresistibly insatiable together 🤭
“their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear which is which” is the PERFECT way to describe the dynamic between these two. this is only the second book i've read by ophelia, but i’ve gotta say, no one writes a lovers tiff quite like her 😏
the mystery and suspense had me on the edge of my seat, and the reveals near the end?? it was completely unexpected in the way only ophelia can deliver— sharp, unpredictable, and then devistatingly romantic. their story was wrapped up so perfectly imo. i will be thinking about these two for a long time.
“All the humility in the world couldn’t compete with the idealistic vision of a lover. To him, I was art. But only to him, and I believed that was enough.”
⟡ psychological horror romance
⟡ standalone with dual pov
⟡ artist x muse in gilded age nyc
⟡ mystery & revenge
⟡ murderous appetites
⟡ inappropriate use of fruit & clay
⟡ proper bdsm practices & brat taming
thank you so much to i.v. ophelia, montlake, and netgalley for gifting me a copy of this earc! i can’t wait to add a physical copy to my shelves! the artwork on both the inside and outside of this book is STUNNING 🤍
thoughts after reading:
🧐 … 🤔 … 🙂↕️🤲 may i please have some more? 🤭
no one writes characters who will literally haunt your every waking thought quite like i.v. ophelia. i read this arc back in sept, and these characters still linger in my mind.
ophelia immediately captivates you with her poetic prose, and transports you to 1901 NYC. the melancholic atmosphere feels equally gritty, haunting, and alluring. some pretty profound character lore is dropped early on, which hooked me and led me on a truly unforgettable 👀 exploration of not just one, but two complex character psyches battling between love and rage.
the reader doesn’t get a ton of backstory on the characters in the beginning (they're married right away) which seemed polarizing at first, however, looking back on this story, i personally loved this choice and dynamic as the reader. it felt like i was slowly peeling back the layers of these characters alongside their partner as the story progressed. and there are a LOT of layers. these two are complicated 😅, compassionate, and irresistibly insatiable together 🤭
“their shared obsessions draw them into an intoxicating dance of predator and prey, though it’s never quite clear which is which” is the PERFECT way to describe the dynamic between these two. this is only the second book i've read by ophelia, but i’ve gotta say, no one writes a lovers tiff quite like her 😏
the mystery and suspense had me on the edge of my seat, and the reveals near the end?? it was completely unexpected in the way only ophelia can deliver— sharp, unpredictable, and then devistatingly romantic. their story was wrapped up so perfectly imo. i will be thinking about these two for a long time.
“All the humility in the world couldn’t compete with the idealistic vision of a lover. To him, I was art. But only to him, and I believed that was enough.”
⟡ psychological horror romance
⟡ standalone with dual pov
⟡ artist x muse in gilded age nyc
⟡ mystery & revenge
⟡ murderous appetites
⟡ inappropriate use of fruit & clay
⟡ proper bdsm practices & brat taming
thank you so much to i.v. ophelia, montlake, and netgalley for gifting me a copy of this earc! i can’t wait to add a physical copy to my shelves! the artwork on both the inside and outside of this book is STUNNING 🤍
January 22, 2026
This book sunk its claws into me with the dedication and didn’t let go until the very last page.
“I didn’t watch you claw your way through this life just to see you falter.”
Fruit of the Flesh has officially confirmed I.V. Ophelia as an autobuy author! A gothic romance with a psychological horror bite, Fruit of the Flesh is filled with secrets, traumas, and redemption.
The foreshadowing in this book is beautifully done, whether it’s within the mundane, the dramatic, or the tender moments. I will be rereading and annotating before our book club meets up to discuss, because even in my reverence I’m sure there were fine details and nuances that I missed!
“I consider haste a sin. I can appreciate the patience it takes to wait for something. To wait until it’s ripened to perfection.”
I won’t go too far into this, for fear of spoilers, but the metaphors for desire were so well written and perfectly captured the fine line between horror and craving, while also nodding to a “pure” and buttoned up culture that buries our desires under layers of performance. Not to mention, Fruit of the Flesh is drenched in the symbolism of datura flowers, apricots, and moths. I am enamoured with I.V. Ophelia’s writing and with this book!
“Giving him my heart meant it was possible to break it. To make oneself vulnerable was to give them the blade with the tip to your chest.”
Also, just a moment for the cover. It’s so beautiful and well suited! Even though this book has darker themes, the pale, almost delicate nature of the artwork perfectly encapsulates the story.
“Tell me- does God burn?”
“I didn’t watch you claw your way through this life just to see you falter.”
Fruit of the Flesh has officially confirmed I.V. Ophelia as an autobuy author! A gothic romance with a psychological horror bite, Fruit of the Flesh is filled with secrets, traumas, and redemption.
The foreshadowing in this book is beautifully done, whether it’s within the mundane, the dramatic, or the tender moments. I will be rereading and annotating before our book club meets up to discuss, because even in my reverence I’m sure there were fine details and nuances that I missed!
“I consider haste a sin. I can appreciate the patience it takes to wait for something. To wait until it’s ripened to perfection.”
I won’t go too far into this, for fear of spoilers, but the metaphors for desire were so well written and perfectly captured the fine line between horror and craving, while also nodding to a “pure” and buttoned up culture that buries our desires under layers of performance. Not to mention, Fruit of the Flesh is drenched in the symbolism of datura flowers, apricots, and moths. I am enamoured with I.V. Ophelia’s writing and with this book!
“Giving him my heart meant it was possible to break it. To make oneself vulnerable was to give them the blade with the tip to your chest.”
Also, just a moment for the cover. It’s so beautiful and well suited! Even though this book has darker themes, the pale, almost delicate nature of the artwork perfectly encapsulates the story.
“Tell me- does God burn?”
September 9, 2025
Ophelia does it again...but, respectfully (and with lots of love) what the hell was that?? THAT ENDING!
I'll try to keep this short and spoiler free, but Ophelia incorporated one of my biggest fears that successfully spooked me first thing in the morning as I woke up early to read it in bed. I was horrified, grossed out, and strangely moved by Petra's and Arkady's relationship.
Ophelia is fantastic with descriptions and the entire time I could see the story play out like a movie inside my head. Arkady was my favorite character and though I liked Petra I found her to be a bit grating at times (which makes sense once all the pieces fall into place at the end.)
I can't wait for my friends and everyone else to read this book. It is the perfect gothic horror that creeps beneath your skin versus throwing stuff on page for shock value.
I won't be able to get this story out of my head for a long time I fear. Highly recommend!
I'll try to keep this short and spoiler free, but Ophelia incorporated one of my biggest fears that successfully spooked me first thing in the morning as I woke up early to read it in bed. I was horrified, grossed out, and strangely moved by Petra's and Arkady's relationship.
Ophelia is fantastic with descriptions and the entire time I could see the story play out like a movie inside my head. Arkady was my favorite character and though I liked Petra I found her to be a bit grating at times (which makes sense once all the pieces fall into place at the end.)
I can't wait for my friends and everyone else to read this book. It is the perfect gothic horror that creeps beneath your skin versus throwing stuff on page for shock value.
I won't be able to get this story out of my head for a long time I fear. Highly recommend!
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