Venom and Lace, the newest release by Dani Antoinette, is a captivating enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance that left me on the edge of my seat. The book features Nova, a business-savvy and outspoken protagonist who is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the success of her and her best friend’s sexual well-being business. Even if that means posing as the fake fiancé of Ryzen Goodacre, Chicago’s most eligible bachelor, who is also her rich and grumpy neighbour.
Ryzen’s ruthless pursuit to be number one has made him one of the richest men in the city, and Nova finds herself blackmailed into proving to the world that they are madly in love. However, Nova isn’t like most women, and she refuses to follow the rules blindly. She is determined to protect her dreams, but little does she know that Cian Blackwood, Ryzen’s bitter rival, is waiting to destroy anyone who stands in his way, including her and her heart.
Antoinette has done a fantastic job with the characters, each having their own distinct personalities and motives that keep the story engaging. Nova’s strength and independence make her an admirable protagonist, while Ryzen’s complexity adds depth to his character. However, it is Cian’s haunting past and intense need for revenge that truly steals the show.
The writing is beautifully crafted, with a perfect balance of dialogue and narrative, making the story easy to follow and the characters easy to connect with. The slow-burn romance is well executed, and the love triangle adds an extra layer of tension to the story.
The book’s ending leaves readers with a shocking cliffhanger that will leave them eagerly anticipating the next instalment. I found myself dragging my feet in finishing it because I just didn’t want it to end. As a result, I am more than willing to do questionable things for an ARC of the next instalment.
Overall, Venom and Lace is an enthralling read that I highly recommend. Antoinette has created a unique and compelling world filled with complex characters, romance, and a plot that will leave you begging for more. If you haven’t already, add this book to your TBR list and don’t miss out on this amazing story.