Review of Leather & Lark: The Ruinous Love Trilogy, Book 2
When I first stumbled upon Brynne Weaver’s sensational debut, Butcher & Blackbird, I found myself captivated by her unique ability to intertwine dark humor with the complexities of love and trauma. So, naturally, I was ecstatic to dive into Leather & Lark, the second installment in her Ruinous Love Trilogy. I had high hopes of an even deeper exploration into these characters, and let me tell you—Weaver did not disappoint.
The story centers around Lachlan Kane, a contract killer yearning for a quiet life in his leather studio, and Lark Montague, an indie singer whose sunshine demeanor hides darker secrets. From their explosive first meeting—marred by Lachlan’s grumpy disdain for Lark’s vibrant personality—to their outrageous marriage of convenience, this book unfolds like a chaotic, beautiful dance between opposites. The grumpy/sunshine trope comes alive here, with Lachlan tasting the bitterness of his past and Lark’s light slowly breaking through his shadows. Their hate-to-love dynamic had me chuckling and cheering in equal measure.
Weaver excels at crafting memorable characters that leap off the page. Lachlan’s brooding nature and complicated history make him a conflicted hero who needs to earn Lark’s affection, while Lark’s shimmering layers of vulnerability and strength add depth. Their banter is razor-sharp, and it’s their imperfections that make them relatable—Lachlan’s endearing awkwardness and Lark’s courage in confronting her trauma made me root for them wholeheartedly.
The pacing had its quirks; some may find the slow burn invigorating while others might feel it meanders a bit. However, I appreciated how Weaver took her time to develop the emotional stakes between Lachlan and Lark, building tension before the explosive moments arrive. Quotable gems like “I want to break out of the shade and back into her light” encapsulate the longing that permeates their journey, making their eventual growth so rewarding.
Another standout feature is the unexpected darkness woven throughout the narrative. Lark’s secret life and the “phantom lurking on their doorstep” add an element of suspense that keeps the reader on edge. That thrilling chaos aligns perfectly with the romantic comedy elements, blending danger with delight in a way that feels refreshingly unique.
As I turned the last page, I found myself smiling at the journey I had just experienced. If you adore romances that delve into the complexities of love, trauma, and redemption—especially when packaged with witty dialogues and engaging side characters—Leather & Lark should be on your reading list. This book, much like the first in the trilogy, dares to explore the dark underbelly of love with a whimsical twist, making it a truly entertaining read.
In closing, this installment left me yearning for the final book in the trilogy. Brynne Weaver has a gift for storytelling that captivates, entertains, and evokes laughter—even amidst the shadows. So grab a cozy blanket, your favorite snack, and prepare for a delightful rollercoaster ride through love’s ruinous paths!
You can find Leather & Lark: The Ruinous Love Trilogy, Book 2 here >>