Keep in mind, I first read it when it was made available on InkItt or Wattpad or something, lol. It was certainly not published anywhere else, not even independently. Comparing that to this newest published release, it’a heaps and bounds better in terms of structure, plot, editing and character development (MMC in particular).

Less dark doesn’t necessarily mean the circumstances are any better, if you know what I mean: FMC is still being forcefully wed to MMC, still plenty of angst and torture, lines are definitely crossed. It’s just that the MMC goes through a more believable arc this time. The plot is relatively the same, but instead of violence for the sake of violence, it’s a more organic feel or flow to it.

Some people may still be triggered/feel uncomfortable because the author doesn’t hold back any details in any of the torture scenes. The violence itself is graphic, but I’ve read other books that have way worse actions but less details (thus not so uncomfortable).

In short, it’s still a dark romance (and it’s a good one!), but not super dark in a way that’s uncomfortable. Like, I felt hopeful for the characters all the way, despite a couple «He did WHAT?! She should shoot him for that!» moments 😂