Bestselling author Brynne Weaver recently released the second installment of the "Ruinous Love" trilogy, a gripping dark romantic comedy filled with danger and passion.
In "Leather & Lark," contract killer Lachlan Kane seeks a quiet life. After a botched job, he is trapped in the underworld until indie singer-songwriter Lark Montague offers him a deal: help her hunt down a killer in exchange for freedom, but they must marry first. Despite their mutual dislike, they embark on a journey where the line between the fake and real blurs. As they navigate their intertwined lives, they face familiar dangers and a new threat lurking in the shadows.
Since her early years, Weaver has been passionate about writing. She would often compose stories on her grandmother's typewriter. Over the years, she's written in various genres, from captivating essays to poetry that has won awards. Weaver aims to portray multidimensional individuals battling themes of wrath, trauma, fear, strength, and love, emphasizing female-centric storylines.
Editorial reviews for "Leather & Lark" praised the book's fresh and irreverent take on dark themes. Abby Jimenez, New York Times bestselling author, likened it to a humorous version of "Dexter" with added sexual tension. RuNyx, USA Today bestselling author, described it as a masterfully crafted tale of serial killers spiced with sensuality and fun. H. D. Carlton, international and USA Today bestselling author, hailed the book as a hilarious, heartwarming, and gory cocktail, perfect for both swooning and laughter.
READ ALSO: 'Haunting Adeline' by H. D. Carlton Book Review: A Dark Romantic Tale of Deception and Obsession
According to the AV Club, the novel has a ton of juicy romantic tropes. This includes the grumpy/sunshine dynamic, enemies-to-lovers, and fake marriages. Since the two books in the series are stand-alone love tales set in the same connected world, readers do not need to have read the previous book to enjoy this one.
Weaver is recognized for her vivid depiction of characters and the genuine connections forged between them. However, the series contains explicit content and graphic violence, making it unsuitable for sensitive readers.
A Reddit review articulated that reading "Leather & Lark" was an immersive journey. Weaver's narrative is profoundly engaging with its unique elements and the strength of the character, Lark. Particularly noteworthy was the beloved character, Great Aunt Ethel, whose presence added an extra layer of enjoyment.
Weaver's skill in infusing typical romance tropes with originality and humor was evident in this book, along with her adept portrayal of character relationships. What is more admiring is the healthy and heartwarming bond between Lark and her stepfather, Damian, which adds depth to the story.
In "Leather & Lark," readers encounter another engaging narrative of "Ruinous Love." A Storygraph review by Mandik stated that while the characters remain endearing and entertaining, the reviewer noted a slight departure in tone compared to its predecessor. The romance aspects are more pronounced, leading to a sense of two distinct narratives merged into one. The book's latter half lacks depth, particularly regarding specific plot points.
Another review stated that this book felt slightly less chaotic than its predecessor, expressing a personal preference for the first book's unhinged nature.
"Leather & Lark" marks another compelling addition to Weaver's "Ruinous Love" Trilogy, delivering a gripping blend of dark romance and comedy. With engaging characters, Weaver navigates their tumultuous journey with finesse, intertwining danger, passion, and intrigue elements. As the second installment unfolds, readers are drawn deeper into the complexities of the characters' lives, encountering both familiar challenges and new threats.
RELATED ARTICLE: 6 Most Anticipated Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2024: From Magical Realms to Space Thrillers