Poison Ivy by Steffanie Holmes

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


As a long-time fan of Steffanie Holmes, I was beyond excited to get the chance to listen to the audiobook version of Poison Ivy, and it did not disappoint. This new adult dark romance is everything I love in a story—intense, thrilling, and so steamy. Let me tell you, if you think you know what you’re getting with the premise, you’re in for a wild ride that’s much more than just spice.

The plot kicks off right from the first moment, and I was immediately drawn into the world of Stonehurst Prep and its twisted elite: Victor, Torsten, and Cassius. These three men—each one so different yet equally dangerous—completely own the narrative. They’re ruthless, smart, and effortlessly magnetic. And the chemistry between them and the protagonist is electric from the get-go.

I absolutely loved how Steffanie Holmes builds the tension between the characters. The stakes are high—not just with the Ivy League promises but with the personal sacrifices they demand in return. The story is so much more than the hot moments (although there are plenty of those). It’s dark, emotional, and filled with that irresistible push-pull of forbidden attraction and dangerous deals.

And the spice? Oh, it’s definitely spicy. The scenes are smoking hot, no question. But I really appreciate how Holmes balances the heat with a deeper story. There’s a lot of complexity to the characters and the relationships, and it’s not all just about getting off. There’s tension, betrayal, loyalty, and that emotional rollercoaster that makes a romance stick long after the audiobook ends.

The narrators are also absolutely perfect. Each one brings the characters to life in a way that feels authentic to their personalities. Their delivery captures both the darkness of the world they inhabit and the sizzling chemistry between the characters. The transitions between perspectives are seamless, making it so easy to stay immersed in the story without breaking focus.

Overall, Poison Ivy is a thrilling, intense, and super spicy ride, and the audiobook version just amplifies it. If you’re a fan of dark romance with a healthy dose of suspense and steamy chemistry, this is a must-listen. Steffanie Holmes has once again shown why she’s a queen of this genre—Poison Ivy will keep you hooked from start to finish.

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