In Nova B. Quinn's Sugar & Sin, a dark paranormal Christmas novella, Cherise Bates seeks revenge on The Saint, the Archdemon who slaughtered her family. Escaping the Silent Night Asylum a year prior, Cherise carries the scars of her trauma and a burning desire for justice. But as Christmas approaches, The Saint, harvesting souls in the town of Lockwood, finds himself inexplicably drawn to Cherise, captivated by her "sweetly wicked" soul. Their deadly confrontation threatens to unleash chaos, blurring the lines between revenge and seduction. Will Cherise achieve her vengeance, or will The Saint claim her as his newest victim in this chilling tale of Christmas terror?
Review Sugar & Sin
Wow, "Sugar & Sin" was a wild ride! I went in expecting a fun, dark Christmas novella, and it absolutely delivered on that front, but it also surprised me in so many ways. The blurb hints at a revenge story with a demonic twist, and that's definitely present, but it's layered with so much more. Cherise, our protagonist, is wonderfully complex. She's damaged, yes, scarred and haunted by her past, fueled by a righteous rage seeking vengeance against the Saint, the Archdemon who destroyed her family. But she's also surprisingly funny, with a quirky obsession with candy that provides some much-needed levity amidst the darkness. She’s not just a victim; she's a force to be reckoned with.
And Niklaus, The Saint himself… well, he's far from your typical brooding demon. He's captivating, dangerous, and utterly compelling. His attraction to Cherise isn't just lust; there's a genuine curiosity, a fascination with her resilience and her darkness that mirrors his own. Their relationship is the heart of the story, a slow burn of forbidden desire that culminates in some truly scorching scenes. The author doesn't shy away from the spice, and it's definitely a significant element of the book, but it feels earned, a natural progression of their complex connection. It's not just about physical intimacy; it’s about two damaged souls finding solace and understanding in each other's darkness.
The plot itself is a whirlwind. There are twists and turns I didn't see coming, revelations that left me gasping, and a pace that keeps you glued to the pages. It’s a fast-paced read, but it never feels rushed. The author expertly weaves together the revenge plot, the burgeoning romance, and the unraveling of Cherise's past in a way that keeps you constantly engaged. I found myself completely invested in both Cherise and Nik's journeys, rooting for them even as they made questionable decisions.
While the book is undeniably dark—and it’s crucial to heed the trigger warnings—there's also a surprising amount of humor and genuine heart. Cherise's dark humor and her unwavering determination, coupled with Nik's unexpected vulnerability and surprisingly tender moments, create a compelling dynamic that kept me entertained from beginning to end.
The ending… well, I won't spoil it, but let's just say it's satisfyingly unexpected. It leaves you pondering the consequences of their actions and the nature of redemption in a world where lines between good and evil are blurred. "Sugar & Sin" is a thrilling, spicy, and emotionally resonant read. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you appreciate dark paranormal romance with complex characters, a thrilling plot, and a generous helping of spice, then this is a must-read. I definitely recommend grabbing your favorite holiday treat (maybe a candy cane, in keeping with the theme!) and settling in for a truly unforgettable reading experience. I’m already looking forward to more from this author!
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.44 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 194
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
