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thebookcourt 's review for:
Catalyst to the Lumens
by C.R. Kaine
Thank you to CR Kaine for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I’m really loving these books that are coming out that cater to multiple genres. Dark Romance with a mystery/thriller aspect is something I didn’t know I needed but I definitely enjoyed!
Catalyst to the Lumens follows Dahlia, a 911 operator, who has a dark past involving DV. One night she receives a call from Merrick, who at first seems upset that he found his wife dead, but before he hangs up the call, he says something that makes her question everything. Not being able to let it go, she finds out where he lives and watches him, intrigued by his demeanour but also fully attracted to him. What ensues is a wild dark romance mixed with a thriller vibe when Merrick becomes the lead suspect and Danlia’s abusive ex comes back into the picture.
For a debut novel, this was overall well written. I enjoyed the storyline even if some parts were a bit unbelievable. Dahlia was an interesting take on a somewhat morally grey character. She’s definitely a little unhinged and makes some questionable decisions. Merrick was a bit of a struggle for me. It’s like he couldn’t decide if he was morally grey or just in love? I don’t know, some moments just didn’t flow for me.
There was also some major issues for me in terms of the spice scenes. Not giving spoilers but ummmm yeah somethings off there.
Either way, the book was fast paced, lots going on to keep you intrigued. The dynamic between Dahlia and Merrick was definitely intense and you could feel the tension between them. If you’re a fan of dark romance and supporting indie authors I recommend checking this one out!
I’m really loving these books that are coming out that cater to multiple genres. Dark Romance with a mystery/thriller aspect is something I didn’t know I needed but I definitely enjoyed!
Catalyst to the Lumens follows Dahlia, a 911 operator, who has a dark past involving DV. One night she receives a call from Merrick, who at first seems upset that he found his wife dead, but before he hangs up the call, he says something that makes her question everything. Not being able to let it go, she finds out where he lives and watches him, intrigued by his demeanour but also fully attracted to him. What ensues is a wild dark romance mixed with a thriller vibe when Merrick becomes the lead suspect and Danlia’s abusive ex comes back into the picture.
For a debut novel, this was overall well written. I enjoyed the storyline even if some parts were a bit unbelievable. Dahlia was an interesting take on a somewhat morally grey character. She’s definitely a little unhinged and makes some questionable decisions. Merrick was a bit of a struggle for me. It’s like he couldn’t decide if he was morally grey or just in love? I don’t know, some moments just didn’t flow for me.
There was also some major issues for me in terms of the spice scenes. Not giving spoilers but ummmm yeah somethings off there.
Either way, the book was fast paced, lots going on to keep you intrigued. The dynamic between Dahlia and Merrick was definitely intense and you could feel the tension between them. If you’re a fan of dark romance and supporting indie authors I recommend checking this one out!