The Darkness in her Veins — ARC review (no spoilers)
This is by M.K. Lobb and is set to come out August 25, 2026.
Guys. Stop what you’re doing and request this book. I mean it.
This is an urban fantasy. It took me a few minutes to get into it but once I got in, I was IN IT. The premise is excellent. Sinning manifests as a disease called bloodrot, which visibly rots your veins. The powerful/wealthy hire “sinners” to do their dirty work to keep themselves pure. The world building is fantastic because it’s basically delving into actual cult and religious fantasist culture. It’s fascinating and the author did a great job exploring those dynamics.
FMC is a sinner, working for the Prophet. He sends her to do a job where she meets the Warden who is honestly a great MMC. He is kinda unhinged and dark but it works. FMC is kinda jaded but likable. Their banter is good — not overdone — and even though they are attracted to each other there isn’t insta lust. They acknowledge the attraction and I felt like there was actual tension. It’s partially because even though they’re attracted to each other they don’t always really like each other? It’s honestly great.
There are also multiple betrayals, lying and shady behavior from multiple parties. I wish I could say more. I feel like if you liked Daggermouth you’d like this book. It was much better than I was expecting and I’m glad I picked it up. I’d definitely recommend grabbing the sample of the book bc I know others may not share my opinion.
Solid 4.75 for me. The slow beginning brought it down but again, minor peanuts compared to how much I liked the rest of the book.