Dark Notes

By Pam Godwin

TheStory

Ivory Westbrook has a horrifically tragic life. After her father’s death, there is no one she can trust.

Until her teacher, Emeric Marceaux. He teaches her how to take back control, protects her, and loves her in a way she has been missing for too long. 

TheReview

Let’s start off with the triggers…

Mention (and 2 or 3 on page scenes) of assault, r*pe, and abuse.

Underage FMC (17).

10 year age gap.

Student/teacher

Grooming vibes. 

Warnings being noted, I knew exactly what I was getting into when I started. While I don’t condone underage relationships, it is FICTION. 17 is not 15. It is the age of consent in some states. So let’s call it what it is - morally (dark) grey. Since I knew what this would be, I was able to get into the fictional storyline - and it was amazing. 

Ivory’s life is so tragic (like unbelievably so… it’s a bit much). Sadly, she just accepts it as her reality. She’s resigned to living through her trauma.

But then… EMERIC! With his own past, demons, and secrets. But he is fully prepared to offer Ivory exactly what she needs (understanding that BDSM can be a healing tool for survivors of SA and r*pe). He is morally grey, alpha, daddy vibes.

I’m drooling over here. 

It’s a forbidden romance, slow burn that had me REELING waiting for every chapter. While it was dark and twisted, it was also sweet and loving. It’s not just about the “forbidden s*x” but openness and understanding.

There is total commitment to honesty and healing between the MCs.

Also the DRAMA! The way Emeric deals with each of her problems methodically and without reservations is so gratifying. He fights her nightmares while also helping her fight them herself. 

I am deceased for this book. Other than wishing the FMC could have just been an actual adult, I loved this whole book. From the storyline, to the relationship, to the drama, to the ending. I loved it.

TheRating

Storyline: 4/5

Characters: 5/5

World Building: N/A

Writing: 5/5

Overall: 📘📘📘📘📘

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️