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4.24 AVERAGE
4.24 AVERAGE
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Seven— you’ve made it onto my book boyfriend list, and trust me, that’s not an easy feat.
But before I dive into why you need to read this, let’s get a couple of things out of the way that didn’t quite click for me.
First, the FMC's relationship with Elijah. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I found myself simultaneously rooting for them while feeling that something was… off. It was like the chemistry was almost there for me, but never fully ignited. Still, I couldn’t help but be invested in their twisted connection.
Second, the dynamic between the FMC and Atticus? It just felt forced. The sparks weren’t sparking for me (although the tension had me rooting for it!), and just didn’t land the way I hoped it would. Something about it left me cold.
Now, with that out of the way, let me tell you why you absolutely need to dive into this one.
Seven. Oh, Seven. The golden retriever of your darkest, most depraved fantasies. I’m feral for this man! From his heartbreaking backstory to his dark, almost dangerous devotion to the FMC and his family— he’s the perfect mix of sweet chaos and unrelenting obsession to keep those he loves safe. The psychopath with a heart of gold, the kind of man you know you shouldn’t want… but you can’t help yourself. 😮💨
Sure, I had my qualms about some of the relationships, but let me be clear: the authors absolutely kill it with character development! Every flaw, every twisted piece of these characters felt earned. They’re messy, broken, and just so damn real, even if it’s in the darkest way possible.
The plot? Original. Gripping. Action-packed from page one. And let’s not forget the banter. If you’re a fan of dark humor that hits right where it should, this book delivers in spades. Think: “Lights Out” but darker, sharper, and just a little more dangerous. The spice? Oh, the spice is there. Not overdone, but scorching with a burn that hurts so good.
This book checks all the boxes for us dark romance lovers:
- Touch her and die
- Who hurt you?
- I can fix him (spoiler: you really shouldn’t, but you’ll want to)
- FMC who takes back control (yes, queen!)
- Why choose? (because why should you?)
- Morally grey characters who make you question your own morals
- Villainous leads who you’ll love to hate
- A revenge plot that keeps you turning pages long past midnight (I stayed up all night with this book!)
And let’s talk about the characters because we get some of the best dark romance tropes:
- The psycho golden retriever (Seven, I’m looking at you)
- The OCD ex military hacker who knows how to push every button (Atticus or Daddicus if you will)
- The tortured artist who hides his pain to his pain, but cannot hide the scars (Elijah) and surprises you more than once.
This book isn’t just for dark romance lovers— it’s for anyone who enjoys complex characters, twisted relationships, and a plot that’s as intense as it is addictive. If you like your romance a little broken, your humor a lot dark, and your spice served raw, then trust me, you don’t want to miss this.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Mental illness, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Blood, Dementia, Death of parent, Murder, Abandonment, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Torture, Toxic relationship, Violence, Alcohol
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Fast-paced and an addictive read, I tore through this book. It’s not often that I binge a book that quickly, and to be completely honest snared by a story right now when my life is so chaotic I can barely concentrate means this book delivered all the entertainment it promised.
My only complaint is it ends so abruptly. I know a cliffhanger is a tactic, but I would have preferred a little more resolution for this story’s segment before a cliffhanger if that makes sense.
My only complaint is it ends so abruptly. I know a cliffhanger is a tactic, but I would have preferred a little more resolution for this story’s segment before a cliffhanger if that makes sense.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Violence
There’s plenty of plot- the spice is not overpowering. The violence is not too much, either. Violence level is tamer than a James Bond movie.
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Aurora, Seven, Atticus & Elijah
Why Choose
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Damaged Heroes
"Who Hurt You?"
What an ending!!!
Okay, I'll be honest. I wasn't initially sold on this book when I read the first few chapters, I just wasn't connecting with it, it felt a little farfetched (fiction, I know 😂). But then it seemed like something changed, and I became obsessedddddd!!!!!
I couldn't read this fast enough! I needed to know more about these guys and what they were hiding 👀
I freaking love Aurora!!! But the ending!!! My jaw was ON THE FLOOR
This book is sooo good!!! I need the next book now because I need to see some grovelling please 🤣
Why Choose
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Damaged Heroes
"Who Hurt You?"
What an ending!!!
Okay, I'll be honest. I wasn't initially sold on this book when I read the first few chapters, I just wasn't connecting with it, it felt a little farfetched (fiction, I know 😂). But then it seemed like something changed, and I became obsessedddddd!!!!!
I couldn't read this fast enough! I needed to know more about these guys and what they were hiding 👀
I freaking love Aurora!!! But the ending!!! My jaw was ON THE FLOOR
This book is sooo good!!! I need the next book now because I need to see some grovelling please 🤣
White Rose Painted Red? More like White Rose Set Me On Fire and Left Me Screaming Into the Void.
Let me be clear: I did not read this book—I was kidnapped by it, held hostage by the plot, seduced by morally gray men, and released only when I promised to beg for Book Two on my hands and knees. Which I am doing. Right now. Please, Ms. Lawson. I am not okay.
First of all, let’s talk about Aurora. This woman ran over a man and still managed to bag three emotionally unstable Greek god lookalikes with criminal records. Queen behavior. Her strength? Next-level. Her growth arc? Michelin-starred. Her relationship with her dog Ellie? I would die for it. And the kitchen scene with Seven? I had to pause and make myself a cup of tea.
And SEVEN. Oh sweet psychological menace with golden retriever energy. You are chaos in combat boots and I love you. If you looked at me the way you look at Aurora, I’d sign a maid contract too. I don’t clean, but I’d learn.
Elijah is the cinnamon roll that holds the group chat together. Atticus is a controlling menace who buys gifts for the dog and insults you in a British accent (probably). Together? Delectable chaos. This is the holy trinity of reverse harem. God is busy—these three will take your prayers now.
The plot? Wild. There’s trauma, intrigue, a possibly unhinged murder plot, a woman trying to reclaim her identity, and THREE emotionally compromised men in one house. It’s like The Bachelor meets John Wick but make it ✨horny and healing✨.
Yes, some of it makes no real-world sense. Yes, she moved in with three random men she just met in the woods after running one of them over. But you know what? I don't question fate. Or hot men with tragic backstories.
This book ends on a cliffhanger and I am now a shell of a human, wandering aimlessly and whispering “Book two… please…” into the wind.
10/10. Would sell my soul for an ARC of the sequel.
Let me be clear: I did not read this book—I was kidnapped by it, held hostage by the plot, seduced by morally gray men, and released only when I promised to beg for Book Two on my hands and knees. Which I am doing. Right now. Please, Ms. Lawson. I am not okay.
First of all, let’s talk about Aurora. This woman ran over a man and still managed to bag three emotionally unstable Greek god lookalikes with criminal records. Queen behavior. Her strength? Next-level. Her growth arc? Michelin-starred. Her relationship with her dog Ellie? I would die for it. And the kitchen scene with Seven? I had to pause and make myself a cup of tea.
And SEVEN. Oh sweet psychological menace with golden retriever energy. You are chaos in combat boots and I love you. If you looked at me the way you look at Aurora, I’d sign a maid contract too. I don’t clean, but I’d learn.
Elijah is the cinnamon roll that holds the group chat together. Atticus is a controlling menace who buys gifts for the dog and insults you in a British accent (probably). Together? Delectable chaos. This is the holy trinity of reverse harem. God is busy—these three will take your prayers now.
The plot? Wild. There’s trauma, intrigue, a possibly unhinged murder plot, a woman trying to reclaim her identity, and THREE emotionally compromised men in one house. It’s like The Bachelor meets John Wick but make it ✨horny and healing✨.
Yes, some of it makes no real-world sense. Yes, she moved in with three random men she just met in the woods after running one of them over. But you know what? I don't question fate. Or hot men with tragic backstories.
This book ends on a cliffhanger and I am now a shell of a human, wandering aimlessly and whispering “Book two… please…” into the wind.
10/10. Would sell my soul for an ARC of the sequel.
dark
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I could not put this book down! It is SO good. So much action from start to end, and the plot just sucks you in! You can’t help but feel for all our main characters. I’m so curious about Aurora’s past, and I love how much Eli and Seven care about her. SOME characters really need to get their priorities straight in book 2 though! I’m going to need some major grovelling to forgive them. I can’t wait to read what happens next!
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Thank you to the authors for giving me this to read as an ARC!!!
I literally screamed when it was the last chapter. Did not realise it was the last chapter until I saw the acknowledgment.
I like the pace of the story, I like that it didn’t rush into an ending and instead pace out on its own pace.
If you like morally grey men, then you’ll definitely like Seven! He’s got the vibes like a giant morally grey and batshit crazy playboy but extremely loyal and faithful guard dog.
If you like an unpredictable yet has a soft side, you’ll definitely like Eli. And if you like anger issues and obsessive and possessive men, Atticus is your guy.
I was waiting for the ball to drop with Atticus and it did not disappoint! I’m glad it didn’t end so fast so we can have Atticus grovel his way back to Aurora later 🤣
It was a good read and I hope to read more in book 2 🥹🥰
(Also posted this in Goodreads)
I literally screamed when it was the last chapter. Did not realise it was the last chapter until I saw the acknowledgment.
I like the pace of the story, I like that it didn’t rush into an ending and instead pace out on its own pace.
If you like morally grey men, then you’ll definitely like Seven! He’s got the vibes like a giant morally grey and batshit crazy playboy but extremely loyal and faithful guard dog.
If you like an unpredictable yet has a soft side, you’ll definitely like Eli. And if you like anger issues and obsessive and possessive men, Atticus is your guy.
I was waiting for the ball to drop with Atticus and it did not disappoint! I’m glad it didn’t end so fast so we can have Atticus grovel his way back to Aurora later 🤣
It was a good read and I hope to read more in book 2 🥹🥰
(Also posted this in Goodreads)
Decisions borne of desperation aren’t always the most rational ones. That’s a sentiment I think all four main characters in this book might agree with.
White Rose Painted Red was a delightful surprise because the blurb gives very little away in terms of why Aurora Bellerose is wanting a fresh start and just who Atticus, Elijah, and Seven are and what they do. I loved how the Lawson sisters decided to be mysterious and a little coy with their readers, because when realized exactly what these men do? I was absolutely thrilled. I was all of a sudden a thousand times more excited than I was before.
If you like your men morally grey and driven, then you’re going to really enjoy Seven. If you like your men overprotective and obsessive, you’re going to love Atticus. If you like your men unpredictable and possessive, you’re going to love Elijah. Together they’re volatile, unpredictable, toxic, and wild. It seems to turn out that they’re Aurora’s type of wild, though, and right in a time of her life when she needs to be shocked back to life.
Is this pitch black romance? No. I’d say it’s directly in the middle of dark romance territory genre with a fast burn and high heat. It’s violent and I’d definitely be mindful of the TW/CWs. There is an adorable and intelligent pupper and nothing happens to her. It’s a lot of fun and watching Aurora evolve as the book unfolds is a great time. 4⭐️
I was provided a copy of this title by the authors. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Book Series/Contemporary Romance/Dark Romance/Spice Level 3/Why Choose Romance