⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Monarch - what an incredible captivating thriller and whirlwind of a book! From page one I was hooked and I could not put it down until I had finished it. That its release date is in October and during spooky season is just perfect considering the dark gothic vibes you get while reading it.

Sweet, innocent Elena moves to the US from Ukraine to be with her fiancé, Lorne, who she has only met once prior. When he was courting her over the phone, he seemed like Prince Charming and things seemed to be almost too good to be true ... and maybe they are ? It doesn't take long before Elena begins to see changes in Lorne, bad changes, and her only ally then becomes Atlas, the owner of the hotel where she and Lorne are staying while their house is under construction.

This book literally had everything - it was a thriller with mystery, tension, angst and fear. It also had romance and two very loveable main characters. I absolutely loved Elena from page one, I could relate to her fear and the uncertainty she felt of moving away by herself and start over in a new place. I also loved Atlas and his protectiveness of Elena from the very start. He always SAW Elena for who she was without hesitation.

I also want to mention the incredible art work that was featured throughout the book. Every time I read a Sophie Lark book I appreciate this so much, especially because I have a hard time visualizing characters even when they are described in detail on page. The added art work really helped me imagine the characters better, and I so wish more authors would do this in their books!

Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books for the gifted ARC to read this book before its release 🖤

This book is for you if you love these tropes:

🖤 Gothic Vibes
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🖤 Friends to Lovers
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Small Town

This is a hauntingly beautiful romance! From the moment Elena Zelenska was introduced, I was captivated by her. Elena’s journey from a naive bookstore nerd to a woman caught in a web of secrets is incredibly compelling. The emotional depth of her character draws you in, making you feel her fears and desires as she navigates a love that feels both magical and menacing. And, the unexpected bond between Elena and Atlas that truly stole my heart. Their chemistry is electric, sparking a tension that is as intoxicating as it is forbidden. This story beautifully explores the complexities of love, trust, and finding one’s voice in a world filled with uncertainty. I was left breathless by the romance that unfolds amidst the shadows, reminding us that sometimes the most beautiful love stories arise from the darkest places. If you’re looking for a passionate tale that weaves together love and suspense, this is a must-read that will resonate deeply with you.

Monarch pulled me into a captivating world where love and danger intertwine thrillingly. What truly struck me was how it explores the themes of autonomy and self-discovery amidst the suspense. Ultimately, it isn’t just a romantic thriller; it’s an emotional journey that left me reflecting on the complexities of love, trust, and personal strength. Lark’s ability to weave the characters’ inner lives with a gripping plot made this an unforgettable read. This story is a beautiful testament to resilience and the transformative power of love, and I can’t recommend it enough!

With its compelling characters, slow-building tension, and a plot full of twists, this book is a perfect read for those who love their romance with a heavy dose of mystery and danger. Lark has crafted a tale that’s impossible to put down, balancing darkness and desire in all the best ways.

Arc review!!
Release date : Oct,8th

This book wasn't much spicy 🌶

Anyways This was my first book from Sophie lark and safe to say, It didn't disappoint. I loved THE illustrate art SM. Elena was a sweet & kind women who came from Ukraine to America to marry Lorne. I didn't liked Lorne even a bit. He was sus 🤨

Anyways Atlas was so hot bro, he liked Elena ever since he first saw her 😋 and Ivy and Elena mother-daughter relationship was so good!!

Tbh this was the first Gothic book I ever read & the first book I ever read of Sophie Lark!! So I kinda have mix feelings about this book but everyone have different taste so!!