The Poisoner : (the Poisoner Book #1) – I. V. Ophelia

Step into the gaslit shadows of Victorian London, where botanist and poison enthusiast Alina Lis spends her nights exacting poetic justice on vile men. Her latest target, the enigmatic Silas Forbes, survives her lethal brew—and soon becomes an irresistible obsession. As their dangerous dance of wit and desire unfolds, Alina discovers Silas harbors secrets far darker than her own. Together, they navigate a world of hidden identities, ancient foes, and forbidden science, where every whispered truth threatens to unravel their fragile bond.

Ophelia weaves a haunting tale of love and horror, blending lush Gothic atmosphere with razor-sharp tension. Alina’s sharp intellect and unapologetic defiance clash with Silas’s brooding magnetism, creating a romance as volatile as it is inevitable. The novel’s rich prose immerses readers in a society teetering between progress and superstition, where even the most civilized facades hide monstrous appetites. Twists unfold like petals of a poisonous flower, revealing layers of betrayal and loyalty that transcend time—and humanity.

The Poisoner masterfully balances visceral stakes with emotional depth, exploring themes of power, redemption, and the price of curiosity. Alina’s journey from solitary avenger to reluctant partner is mirrored by Silas’s struggle to reconcile his predatory nature with his growing devotion. Secondary characters add intrigue, from shadowy figures in high society to eerie scientific experiments that blur the line between life and death.

Readers will find themselves swept into a labyrinth of secrets, where every chapter tightens the coil of suspense. Ophelia’s debut is a triumph of dark romance, offering lush descriptions of Victorian London and a visceral exploration of love’s capacity to corrupt—or redeem. The novel’s climax leaves hearts pounding and questions lingering, setting the stage for a series that promises even darker revelations.