Does It Hurt? – H. D. Carlton

Does It Hurt? follows a woman on the run from her past, desperate to escape the shadows that haunt her. After years of stealing identities to survive, she crosses paths with Enzo Vitale, a brooding man with ties to the ocean’s deadliest creatures. Their fiery encounter under a waterfall sparks an unforgettable connection, but Enzo’s motives are shrouded in revenge. When a storm strands them on a remote island, they must navigate treacherous waters—both literal and emotional—to survive.

Trapped in a crumbling lighthouse, the pair confronts their shared history and the secrets that could destroy them. Enzo’s thirst for vengeance clashes with his growing obsession, while the protagonist battles her instinct to flee. The island’s eerie caretaker adds another layer of danger, leaving readers questioning who to trust. Carlton’s writing weaves suspense and sensuality, balancing heart-pounding tension with raw, vulnerable moments.

The novel explores themes of identity, resilience, and the blurred line between love and obsession. Flashbacks hint at the protagonist’s traumatic past, slowly unraveling the mystery of why she ran. Enzo’s complexity—part predator, part protector—keeps the dynamic charged, while the isolated setting amplifies the stakes. Fans of dark romance will devour the push-pull chemistry and high-stakes drama.

With twists that defy expectations, the story challenges characters to confront their darkest selves. The prose is vivid, immersing readers in the storm’s fury and the claustrophobic intensity of the lighthouse. Secondary characters, like the enigmatic caretaker, add depth to the plot without overshadowing the central duo.

Carlton delivers a gripping tale where survival means facing more than the elements—it means confronting the monsters within. The blend of romance, thriller, and psychological depth ensures this book lingers long after the final page.