Okay, dark serial killer romance.... hell yeah! This book has been on my DTR for the longest time and I am absolutely ecstatic that I was given the opportunity to read this book. So, thank you, Sophie Lark, Sourcebooks, and NetGalley for the copy. I will definitely be purchasing a physical copy to add to my bookshelf.
I admired the FMC for her attitude toward the MMC because she had no fear of putting him in his place when necessary. I really enjoy it when the main characters go together so well especially in dark romances when the women actually have a spine and aren't portrayed as dainty and pure beings that can't fend for themselves.
I also really liked the smutty scenes in this book, I think their passion and their appreciation of their art made their connection so much more intimate and an immersive experience for the reader.
The writing was so engaging and the attention to detail was immaculate, I really felt a part of their world and I often lost track of time while reading this book.
5/5 I recommend this book to people who enjoy dark romance, and serial killer tropes, and those who like the show "You" It surely gave me similar vibes
I cant wait to read the next part of Mara and Cole's story, they're seriously addicting.

A mystery thriller with romance beautifully weaved into it. It’s dark. It’s red. The humanity and love tether on the edge of the blade. Literally.

This is one of the best culminations/climaxes I’ve ever read. It is powerful. The stakes are huge. The author does not give you the happy ending easily.

The dark side of the artist world is explored.

This is a duet and to know ALL the secrets you may want to read the second book as well!

The blending of light and dark colors is so masterfully done in this one! Just absolutely the way an artist would want to see it!

I am so happy to have finally read this book. Sophie Lark did an incredible setting up this delicious dark story in San Francisco’s art world.

I am not one of those people that loves true crimes shows/podcasts but I did start my reading journey in the thriller world. I love the crossover of the romantic suspense.

Cole is a perfect morally grey MMC and having his POV throughout the book help you to understand who he is and why he makes the decisions he makes.

I am very interested to continue through this duet and see where this story goes because every single person in this world is ridiculously unhinged.

"There Are No Saints" by Sophie Lark is a gripping and intense romantic thriller that delves into the dark, complex minds of its characters and explores the boundaries of love, obsession, and control.

The story follows Cole Blackwell, a successful and respected sculptor in San Francisco, who hides a dark and predatory impulse beneath his charismatic exterior. Mara Eldritch, on the other hand, is a struggling artist working multiple jobs to make ends meet. Their paths cross in a chance encounter that leads to an unsettling fascination on Cole's part.

What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. Sophie Lark does an excellent job of delving into the psychology of her characters, particularly Cole. His internal struggle between his predatory instincts and his growing feelings for Mara is a central conflict that keeps readers engaged. The gradual unravelling of Cole's character, as he loses control and breaks his own rules, adds depth to the narrative.

Mara is a compelling character in her own right. Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity make her a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. The tension between her vulnerability and her desire for recognition as an artist creates an emotional core to the story.

The pacing is well-executed, with a gradual buildup of suspense and intrigue. The alternating perspectives between Cole and Mara provide insights into their conflicting emotions and motivations. As the story progresses, the stakes rise, and readers are kept on the edge of their seats.

The romance between Cole and Mara is passionate and intense, but it's far from conventional. It's a dangerous dance between two damaged individuals, and the author doesn't shy away from exploring the consequences of their attraction.

Sophie Lark's writing is evocative, creating a vivid sense of place and atmosphere in the city of San Francisco. The narrative is filled with moments of tension and suspense, and the story's dark undertones keep readers engaged throughout.

"There Are No Saints" is a thought-provoking and intense thriller that pushes the boundaries of romance and delves into the complexities of the human psyche. It's a story of obsession, control, and the blurred lines between love and darkness. If you're looking for a gripping read that explores the darker aspects of human nature, this book delivers a compelling and unforgettable experience.

Still not sure how I feel about this book. Cole’s character is just so strange. And he goes from 0 to 100 in aspects of Mara but it’s just so bizarre.

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️

i love sophie lark and every single thing she writes. seriously, i’ve eaten up every book of hers i’ve read so far and i wont stop until i’ve read everything.

was this the best of her books? no, not at all. but was it the worst? no way. it was nice that this was set in the art world. i don’t think i’ve read another book that centered around art and artists like this and it was super interesting.

the plot was something that hasn’t been done a lot (not in this specific way, at least) and i loved that. i loved that it wasn’t a dark romance where the mmc was in college or in the mafia which seems like the majority of dark romances these days.

the whole rival serial killers thing reminded me of dexter and i LOVE dexter. seriously, i’ve watched the show more times than im willing to admit and this gave the same vibes as the season with dexter’s brother.

cole was disturbed and reading his stalker-ish ways was better than reading other stalker romances (iykyk). i loved that it started out as an obsession to find out more about her and developed into an obsession to keep her safe.

mara was so independent and it was a breath of fresh air that she didn’t immediately keel over the second a man gave her attention and money. the way she fought him to keep her own ground and do things her way? loved it.

that slow burn though. seriously, i thought i was going to DIE if they didn’t fuck. it took SO LONG but when it finally happened WHEW 🥵 i needed a cold shower after that.

there were a few scenes that had me sweating and blushing and questioning myself. the tattoo scene???????? HELLO??????

all in all, this book was great. it could have been better, it could have been a little speedier, but would i read it again? 100%

thank you netgalley and sophie lark for the arc of this book ❤️

I really want to like Sophie Lark's books since she is a staple on Tiktok and seems like such a nice person but this story just was not for me. I was confused over the whole murderer for art storyline but I think I just couldn't root for a couple where the man leaves her to die. Like I dont mind a dark romance but I'm just like girl why would you fall in love with a man who left you to die like have some standards.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC to review!

3 stars! ?….

I was so down for this and to be honest I did enjoy it. But some parts just felt slow / or I zoned out while reading it but despite this I did enjoy it, I think? Haha I’m not sure if I was continue to read the next one, but I was surprised to be rooting for serial killers lmao

Thank you to Sophie Lark, Bloom, and NetGalley for giving me an eArc of There Are No Saints in exchange for my honest review.

I had some hesitations going into this book. I know Sophie Lark is a great author as I have never disliked one of her books before. However, this type of dark romance, one that centers around serial killers, is not typically my cup of tea. There Are No Saints follows Cole, an artist and serial killer, and the woman that he is obsessed with, Mara. Mara on the other hand is a starving artist who has somehow found herself in the middle of two rival serial killers, one of whom wants her dead, the other who is oddly obsessed with her. This book is a romance in so many ways, however to me it felt more like a psychological thriller. The Sinners is a duology, with There Are No Saints being the first book. This is likely why it feels more of a psychological thriller, because there is a lot of set up and character setup that has to be done before we can see any real development, which will likely take place in There Is No Devil. Personally, I really enjoyed Mara as a character. She is strong willed, and is not afraid to give up, despite all the hardships that she has faced in her life. I really hope we continue to see how her character evolves and strengthens in book two. I am also curious to see if book two will feel more like a psychological thriller, a romance, or a mix of both. I am leaning more towards the former and I cannot wait to see what happens.

I can't tell if I liked this book or not. I want to read the next book because I must know what happens to Shaw but the relationship between Cole and Mara isn't for me. I mean what the actual F! He stepped right over you and left you for dead!! Come on girl!

I've only read one other Sophie Lark novel (Savage Lover), but one of my favorite elements of her stories are the playlists that go with them. They provide a dark but almost sexy background with is a great way describe her dark romance books.

I found that my opinions on this novel were similar to my thoughts on Savage Lover. I love the interconnectedness with the other books in the series. Also - the story line itself is really what kept me reading. I enjoy dark romance so much and the stalker/murderer element kept me hanging on every word.

With that being said, like my opinion on past books, the writing leaves a bit to be desired and the pacing is somewhat confusing. For this novel, it started off fast but ended on a slow note.

I will say - the ONE spicy scene in this book was totally worth it and makes me want to read the next book in the series ASAP.

3 stars

4.5 ⭐️, 🌶️🌶️

I really enjoyed this book!! The storyline was unique and I loved the characters! Mara & Cole ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 i loved them so much! Mara was so smart, talented & hard working and I love the way she ended up figuring things out! The way that she didn’t back down from Cole and gave him a run for his money! && Cole was incredible (in his own twisted way ). The way he silently protected Mara in his own way! So excited to dive into the next one!!

There Are No Saints
Pub date 03.10.23

Firstly as always, thankyou to Netgalley, the publisher & the author for copy of the Ebook.

This is the first book in the Sinners Duet. I read Brutal prince a while ago and enjoyed it so thought i would give this one a go. I really enjoyed the writing style but the book was just a little too dark for me. It has haunting/hunting Adeline vibes and its just not my cup of tea.

Please check the triggers before reading this one!

This one didn’t really do it for me. I saw where someone posted if you liked the show You, then you’d like this book. And while it was kinda like that, it wasn’t. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between Mara and Cole. I know it was more of an obsession for him but I didn’t feel any chemistry there. It all just felt forced. So maybe that’s why it just was hitting for me. I didn’t know it was a dark romance either and graphic at times. Speaking of graphics, I felt like the drawings in this book made for youth feeling (maybe cause it’s on a kindle so it’s weird) even though this isn’t for youth at all. I also felt like there was no ending and it kinda just stopped.

Overall, I’ll give it 3 stars to be fair. It wasn’t horrible but it wasn’t that great either. But that’s just my opinion, just not my cup of tea. I know others loved it. Thank you NetGalley for my arc of this book. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.

Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit. The cat and mouse game is always tons of fun to read. I love the Author's inclusion of the music she listened to while writing. It's always nice when authors include bits of their inspiration. My one biggest issue with the book is the pacing. It all happens so quick. There's tension but not enough build up.

Mara is a broke and struggling artist that is in the wrong place at the wrong time at an art gallery.

This all turns when Cole Blackwell finds her interesting enough to learn more about her.

Cole is a well respected and rich artist that has a thing for her but does not realise it at first.

He is a psychopath that is stalking and manipulating her every move.

She gets an art studio that she can afford when her other one is not available anymore, under the careful eye of Cole ofcourse.

Mara is a strong and admirable woman. She will put Cole in his place when it is needed.

I love how she brings choas to his well organized life.

Her revenge was amazing.

This book read so fast and I loved it.

This has to be one of the best books I read this year.

There Are No Saints plunges the readers into a dark and intense world where the line between predator and prey becomes blurred, and the allure of danger captivates the senses. Cole Blackwell, a renowned sculptor in San Francisco, is a man of wealth, success, and respect. To the outside world, he exudes control and sophistication, but beneath this façade lies a dark impulse that he carefully conceals. Cole is not just an artist; he is a predator, and the city is his hunting ground.

On the other side of the spectrum is Mara Eldritch, a seemingly unremarkable and damaged individual. She works tirelessly at three jobs while creating paintings that may never see the light of day. A chance encounter throws Mara into Cole's path, and her escape from what seems like a certain death becomes an obsession for Cole.

As Cole begins to stalk Mara, he discovers that she is not the ordinary victim he expected. She fascinates him and ignites desires he thought he could never feel. The boundaries between right and wrong blur as Cole grapples with whether to protect Mara at all costs or destroy her before she unravels his carefully hidden true nature. He's losing control and breaking the rules that have shielded his darkness from the world. Mara, aware of Cole's danger, cannot deny the inexplicable connection she feels with him. He recognizes her talent in a way no one else ever has, and it leads her heart into the abyss of darkness.

The storytelling is a rollercoaster of suspense, dark romance, and raw emotion. The characters, Cole and Mara are complex, flawed, and utterly compelling, drawing readers into their twisted dance of desire and danger. The book delves deep into the exploration of dark impulses, the allure of forbidden attraction, and the consequences of surrendering to one's deepest desires. It challenges the reader to grapple with the blurred lines between good and evil and the captivating power of darkness.

It is a dark and gripping tale that delves into the depths of human desire, obsession, and the consequences of crossing forbidden boundaries. This book is a riveting read for those who are drawn to dark romances with complex characters and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

This book left me utterly captivated! If you've experienced the rollercoaster of emotions with "Haunting Adeline," whether you loved it or loathed it, you definitely need to give this book a chance. It evoked strong parallels but managed to be way better. The writing in this book is exceptional, keeping me on the edge of my seat, mirroring the protagonist's tension beautifully.

What's truly commendable is how the author maintains the depth of the main male character, refusing to transform him just because of a newfound love interest. He remains as enigmatic and unyielding as ever, and that's a refreshing choice.

Moreover, the artwork throughout the book is a delightful departure from the norm, showcasing the author's willingness to explore new creative avenues.

Like many have already mentioned, this is VERY similar to "YOU".. but better in my opinion. You have a deranged serial killer stalker and a fragile broke artist fighting their intense feelings for each other. The chemistry is scorching hot, so much so that I don't even think a fire extinguisher could put it out 🔥🔥🔥 BUT don't get that confused with spice/smut since this book was lacking until the very end. Ill gladly have Cole Blackwell stalk me through the dark streets any day..

*******

Overall a pretty good book. The beginning of the book did start out very slow and a little boring. However once it all started to pick up, I couldn't out down the book.

A few things to remember this book is very dark, so check the TW before getting into this book. I myself don't find so much stuff disturbing, so it didn't bother me.

*******

Cole: You start by reading about a guy who is mysterious and elusive. You find yourself trying to analyze every line trying to figure out what makes him tick, what makes him this way? You never do find out why he is the way he is, but you see a strong character development happening. You'll find yourself rooting for Cole.

Mara: She first came off as a push over, or someone who doesn't know what she wants. But that thought quickly got shut down by finding out all that she went through in life. She is your typical struggling artist that is working multiple jobs and still struggling to make ends meet. But also through in a bada** who will literally fight for what she wants.

*******

I cant wait to start reading the second book. I need to know what made Cole become this crazy serial killer. Is Mara the only girl he has stalked at all hours of the day? Not to mention I NEED to know what happens to Shaw.. I NEED ANSWERS!

When I first laid eyes on her, I barely found her tolerable. Her raw nails and grungy clothes disgusted me. Now some bizarre alchemy is at work. Every part of her is becoming increasingly attractive to me.

Thank you Sophie Lark, NetGalley and Bloom Books, for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.

I really was excited to read this, as I heard many great things from my friends. They raved and loved it! And as this was my first time reading a book from Ms. Lark + hype around this duology was high, I though I found my new top read. So what the hell happened to me, loca? :D There Are No Saints was hilarious and over the top, in my opinion. I don't think it was meant to be like this, but weirdly and despite this, I somehow enjoyed it. But for obviously different reasons that this was intended to lol

Meet the dynamic trio (not love triangle):

Mara - our FMC. She's a struggling and broke artist, who happens to catch Cole's eye unintentionally and Shaw is like - I got you fam, I know what to doo next. And long story short, she also thinks she is the ONLY person in the city who knows Cole without his mask. Special, I tell ya.

Cole - our MC. I'm the smartest person alive and no one can surpass me. You are some dirt under my million dollar black shoes and I hate the sounds of you breathing. You should be happy I even acknowledge your presence. I also unlive only guys, because it's too easy as there is no challenge or sense of accomplishment.

Shaw - I hate women but I ravish their bits and pieces. Get it? Also, Cole is my BFF and we are rulers of the world. Apex predators.

With the amount of Cole's ego description and Mara's pierced nipples, I had some fair share of nightmares afterwards.

First of all, props to Mara for surviving the Beast with only 1l of blood in her body. I guess adrenaline really is helping in extreme situations. Also, Mara must be the chillest person ever who just accepts everything that happens to her.

Next is Cole's encounter with his future obsession:
I take one last glance at the girls beautifully tortured body. Then I step over her and carry on my way.

Mare - this is your future husband! Do you see the material? 100% husbando material!

I didn't like any characters here.
Hygiene? We don't know her.
Odd habits? I guess it works in this book (rain etc.. khe hkem).
Panties? Cole loves them.
Shaw's obsession with Cole? Healthy for sure.

I just can't. I'm confused by all of this. I would like to roast so many things or sentences here, but I will stop (I still need to review the next book lol). What I did like is illustrations in the book, playlist and unintentional humor, because I had a great time reading it haha