ARC Review: Cruel Is The Light by Sophie Clark
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My first five star read of 2025! I adored this book so much, I’m not quite sure where to begin —unique world-building, compelling character arcs, and a romance that took my breath away.
For over a century, a devastating war has ravaged Europe between demons and humanity. When a foot solider that has hidden secrets, and an exorcist that wishes to uncover them cross paths, they set out to discover the secrets hidden within the Vatican City. As they unravel the mysteries surrounding his past, their growing feelings for each other become undeniable.
This book had me hooked after the first couple of chapters and it did not disappoint. The world-building was rich and immersive without being overwhelming, and it unfolded at a perfect pace, mixed in with great character dynamics. The story also features a delightful take on the grumpy x sunshine trope, with the FMC Selene, who is cold and guarded, vs the MMC Jules who is the charismatic charmer. Their chemistry was electric from the start, and the dual POV offered a wonderful opportunity to experience their evolving relationship from both sides.
Main Tropes:
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Fake Engagement
Enemies to Lovers
Knife to Throat
Forbidden Romance
This incredible story follows Selene, a high-ranking exorcist trained at the prestigious Vatican Academy, who is on a mission to hunt down demons. When she crosses paths with Jules, a foot soldier hiding secrets, her immediate distrust shifts to curiosity, and she becomes determined to uncover the truth about him. However, once inside Vatican City, Selene discovers that there are far more secrets than just Jules’s to unravel.
A forbidden romance, hidden secrets, and the difficult choice between love and duty—will love truly conquer all?