A review by marissaisbooked
The Lazarus by Marlow Locker

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious 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? Yes

5.0

This was such a fun read. As someone who sees a movie play in my head when I read, this was an incredible experience. This is action packed and captivating, contains characters with so much depth, and is wonderfully written. 

June’s character development was so good and I loved getting to experience the inner turmoil she felt as she worked alongside Caden and slowly felt her own beliefs and morals start to shift. 

And Caden…I think I have a new book boyfriend to add to my list of faves. He’s the kind of unhinged, morally grey MMC I absolutely love. Add in how much he wanted June to embrace the power within her and supported her strength? I’m a goner. 

Too often, we see MMCs (and men irl) intimidated by powerful women. However, Caden saw June’s potential and instead did his best to help pull that power out of her and get her to embrace it. 

I found the side characters intriguing and fun as well. I want more King and Lila! And even assholeish, mysterious Hand..

This book also speaks to the perceptions vs reality of good and evil, morality, and a broken society/system in a phenomenal way. 

I cannot wait for book 2! This was an absolutely incredible debut novel and I can’t wait to see Marlow Locker continue to grow as an author. 

Note: This is insta-obsession/insta-lust, but not insta-love. The lust and obsession hit right away, but the development of their relationship is a progression throughout the entire book filled with so much tension and chemistry. 

Highlights:
  • Romance: MF
  • Morally grey MMC
  • Villain gets the girl
  • Possessive MMC
  • Slow burn (but high tension)
  • Forbidden love
  • Insta-obsession / Insta-lust
  • Pierced 🍆

Check TWs/CWs before reading.