Review: This Monster of Mine by Shalini Abeysekara

She knows the taste of death. He'll stoke her hunger for it.

Eighteen-year-old Sarai doesn't know why someone tried to kill her four years ago, but she does know that her case was closed without justice. Hellbent on vengeance, she returns to the scene of the crime as a Petitor, a prosecutor who can magically detect lies, and is assigned to work with Tetrarch Kadra. Ice-cold and perennially sadistic, Kadra is the most vicious of the four judges who rule the land - and the prime suspect in a string of deaths identical to Sarai's attempted murder.

Certain of his guilt, Sarai begins a double life: solving cases with Kadra by day and plotting his ruin by night. But Kadra is charming and there's something alluring about the wrath he wields against the city's corruption. So when the evidence she finds embroils her in a deadly political battle, Sarai must also fight against her attraction to Kadra - because despite his growing hold on her heart, his voice matches the only memory she has of her assailant...

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📌 Disclaimer: I received an e-arc for review from the publisher  
📌 Publication date: 03/04/2025 

This Monster of Mine is very dark, I'd suggest reading the trigger warnings before going into it. To me, the opening was disturbing and set the tone for the rest of the story. I didn't know how brutal it was going to be before picking it up. However, while it didn't work for me due to the dark tone and violence I can see it appealing to people who are after this type of romantasy. 

It's hard to create a standalone fantasy book that doesn't feel rushed. However, Abeysekara delivers both great world building and character development. The main character, Sarai, is quiet but fiery. Someone not to be underestimated and very easy to root for. The romance is a slow burn, it truly deliveries on enemies to lovers. Plus, the love interest is all about consent! 

If you want a dark romantasy that is is equal parts romance and plot then look no further. While This Monster of Mine wasn't my cup of tea, I would still recommend it as I have no complaints about the world building or romance. 

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