Blog

A Reader’s and Writer’s Ramblings

Welcome to my blog, a space dedicated to the wonderful world of books and the joy they bring to readers. Here, we’ll explore my publishing journey, dive into my favourite characters and worlds, discuss delightful tropes, and create a virtual book club where everyone is invited to share their love for reading.

I will also be sharing my publishing journey, as I navigate the exciting yet challenging road of getting my books published! I will share my experiences, from drafting initial ideas to finding an agent and beyond. Each step comes with its own lessons, and I hope that by sharing them, I can inspire those on a similar path.

I love romance in all it's forms. I’ve got to live and love with the Hounds on the streets of Babylon, Texas. I’ve got to walk through Velaris on beautiful winter nights, and ride on the back of fearsome dragons at Basgiath. I’ve got to battle demons in the Glass City, and travel back in time to fight evil warlocks in late 1800s London. I’ve got to be a part of the power, bravery, and family ties of the New York Bratva and the elite private schools of England. I can’t wait to talk about all of my favourite reads...

Book Review, Dark Romance Natalie Smith Book Review, Dark Romance Natalie Smith

Book Review ~ Wicked Trials

Wicked Trials delivers everything you want from a dark gang romance—high-stakes drama, savage trials, intense heat, and complex characters. Ava Jade faces danger at every turn, and the three Crows are more addictive than ever. With shocking twists, searing chemistry, and an ending that leaves you gasping, this book will keep you hooked from page one to the final line.

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Books That Changed My Life... The Shadowhunter Chronicles, By Cassandra Clare

Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunter Chronicles changed my life. From falling in love with Jace Herondale to getting swept up in the magic of City of Glass, these books shaped my heart and imagination. The world-building, the characters, the emotion—nothing compares. And with Wicked Powers on the way, I’ve never been more excited.

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Book Review ~ Crooked Crows

Crooked Crows flips the script on the why choose trope with rich character development, a gritty plot, and a dark, addictive world. This isn’t just spice—it’s secrets, strategy, and survival. With a badass FMC, morally grey MMCs, and a gang that feels like family, this book hooks you fast and doesn’t let go. A must-read for fans of dark romance with bite.

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Books That Changed My Life... The Rinaverse, By Rina Kent

Step into The Rinaverse, by Rina Kent… An addictive world of dark romance, ruthless antiheroes, and unforgettable love stories. From mafia kings to elite prep school bullies, these interconnected books are packed with angst, obsession, and morally grey characters who love as hard as they fight. Prepare to fall for the monster, the villain, and everything in between.

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Book Review ~ Kiss The Villian

Rina Kent’s Kiss the Villain is a dark, deliciously twisted romance featuring a student/professor dynamic unlike any other. Obsession, power plays, and emotional unraveling collide as two brilliant manipulators fall into a spiral of love and destruction. If you crave obsessional tension, unhinged characters, and jaw-dropping spice, this book is the one for you.

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Books That Changed My Life... The L.O.R.D.S Series, By Shantel Tessier

Obsessed with dark romance? Shantel Tessier’s L.O.R.D.S. series will ruin you in the best way. Secret societies, deadly rituals, twisted love stories, and morally grey book boyfriends? Yes, please. This series launched my addiction to the genre—and Dark Romance now owns my soul. Dark, chaotic, and addictive as hell…I Vow. You Vow. We Vow.

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Book Review, Dark Verse Series, Dark Romance Natalie Smith Book Review, Dark Verse Series, Dark Romance Natalie Smith

Book Review ~ The Syndicator

RuNyx delivers a powerful finale in The Syndicator, book 6 of the Dark Verse series. This gripping conclusion explores the aftermaths of trauma, the complexity of love, and reclaiming identity after devastation. With heart-pounding reveals, layered characters, and multi-POV depth, the story ties every thread into a beautifully broken, yet hopeful, ending. A must-read for dark romance lovers.

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Books That Changed My Life... The Off Campus Series, By Elle Kennedy

Ice hockey, college romance, and the perfect mix of steam and humor—Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series is pure gold. With swoon-worthy athletes, fiercely independent FMCs, and friendships that feel like family, these books deliver all the feels. Whether you’re here for the banter, the bromance, or the heart-melting love stories, one thing’s certain—you’ll be obsessed from page one!

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Book Review ~ The Annihilator

RuNyx’s Book 5 is the darkest yet, plunging deep into The Syndicate’s horrors. Luna's (aka, Lyla's) journey is heartbreaking yet empowering, and Shadow Man’s enigmatic nature keeps you hooked. The pacing is perfect, the reveals are jaw-dropping, and the characters feel strikingly real. With vengeance, survival, and unexpected connections, this book is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to miss!

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Books That Changed My Life... The Babylon M.C. Series, By Lou Stock & Vicki James

Gritty, raw, and impossible to put down, The Hounds of Babylon M.C. series by Lou Stock & Vicki James is the ultimate ride-or-die story. Fierce family, heart-wrenching romance, and a world so real you’ll swear you can hear the rumble of the bikes. Ayda & Drew’s love is messy, intense, and unforgettable. Read it once, and you’ll be hooked for life. #HoundForLife

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Book Review ~ The Finisher

Book 4 of RuNyx’s series is a whirlwind of twists, mysteries, and deep emotions! Zee’s bold personality brings a lighter tone, but the darkness looms as the plot thickens. The amnesia element adds intrigue, and the shocking serial killer reveal will leave you reeling. With love, loss, and unexpected connections, this book keeps you hooked—setting up book five to be absolutely mind-blowing!

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Books That Changed My Life... The Fallen Crest & Crew Series, By Tijan

Tijan’s Fallen Crest and Crew series are more than just books - they’re a full-blown obsession. These books were life changing for me. Filled with raw emotion, unbreakable bonds, fierce loyalty, scorching romance, and characters that feel like family make these stories unforgettable. Logan Kade? Ultimate book boyfriend. Bren & Cross? Ride-or-die love. If you crave addictive, gripping reads packed with emotion, chaos, and heart, you need these books in your life. Trust me!

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Book Review ~ The Emperor

RuNyx does it again with book three! The mystery of The Syndicate keeps you hooked, while fresh character perspectives add new depth. The writing is masterfully tense, revealing just enough to keep you craving more. Amara and Dante’s story is beautifully tragic, with deep emotional layers and gripping backstories. If you haven't started this series yet—drop everything and read it now!

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Book Review ~ The Reaper

RuNyx delivers another masterpiece with book two of the thrilling Dark Verse series! The tension is palpable, the romance seamlessly woven into the plot, and the mystery utterly gripping. Every page keeps you on edge, desperate for answers—only to have the rug pulled out from under you! With heart-pounding twists, deep character growth, and shocking revelations, this book is an absolute must-read.

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Book Review ~ The Predator

This book is an absolute must-read! With jaw-dropping plot twists, expertly crafted tension, and unforgettable characters, it keeps you hooked from start to finish. RuNyx masterfully blends mystery, thriller, and dark romance, creating a gripping enemies-to-lovers story. The writing is phenomenal, making you feel every emotion. Don't wait—read it now!

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Book Review, Hockey Romance Natalie Smith Book Review, Hockey Romance Natalie Smith

Book Review ~ Skate The Line

This book is a must-read for hockey romance fans! The relationship between Rhodes and Sunny develops naturally, making their connection feel authentic. Ellie, Rhodes’ daughter, is a standout character—realistic and full of personality. S.J. Sylvis’ writing brings the story to life through vivid detail and emotion. With humor, heart, and a touch of angst, this book earns a spot in the top 10 hockey romances!

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I think Dark Romance can be best explained through a Venn Diagram

Dark romance is one of my favourite book genres, and I often get asked, what is it? I thought on it for a while and then decided the best was for me to explain it is through a Venn Diagram, or two. Ultimately, I think dark romance is a genre of books that shows us a ton of good can come out of so much bad. That peace can be found after tragedy. That light can still be present in the dark. Plus, there’s a whole lot of spice!

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