This book contained heavy, dark subject matter, but was NOT a dark romance itself, but rather a story of survival and trauma while still remaining swoon-worthy. With any other plot line, the relationship buildup(s) would have felt excruciatingly sluggish, but in this case it was quite the appropriate slow burn. This story was so raw and emotional, taking a very leisurely pace all the while leaving anxious space for the ongoing background threat.

I always worry that with a harem this size that the MCs will all blend together, but I did not find that issue within these pages and appreciated what each character brought to the dynamic.