A review by chaos_of_kati
Between Desire and Denial by Shain Rose

emotional funny mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

3.5⭐️3.5🌶️ 

 

This was such a fun read. I personally would not classify it as a dark romance book, cause it only had few elements of such 

If you are looking for an obsessed and possessive MMC that is not super dark possessive, then Dimitri is for you. To this day, I dunno if he is a red or green flag.. 

 

The beginning of the story was so much fun. Olive and Dimitris banter is top tier and funny as hell. Olive a cute girl totally put this 6’6 inch wall of a man in his place by surprising him with her wit and determination. 

After spending a crazy night together, Dimitri becomes a bit obsessed with her and ultimately falls for her. However, Olive has major commitment issues due to past trauma and does not want to date Dimitri. 

Since usually it is the other way around, I thought this was a nice breath of fresh air. 

Their relationship turns into this push-pull thing, where they both desire each other to the brim but Olive is cautious of her heart and denies herself the love that she deserves. 

Their relationship turns a bit repetitive, as Olive struggles with her feelings and Dimitri is just waits for her to come to her senses. 

 

There is also a mystery subplot, which I was not expecting. I enjoyed the secret society theme, but had wished for a more elaborate story. Or for the subplot to be more immersed with the romance plot. 

I thin Shain is setting up the backstory for her next novels with this subplot.