I thought “Touch of Darkness” was good, this book is a MASTERPIECE. Feminine rage, religious mythology, and dark romance all in one? Sign me up! Scarlett St. Clair outdid herself with this beautiful novel.

As soon as I finished listening to this, I pre-ordered a physical copy because I will absolutely be reading this multiple times. From the very first paragraph I was completely hooked. I'm going to be thinking about this book until the next one comes out.

I absolutely love a good myth retelling and stories about religious trauma so it's no surprise that this is a new favorite. I might be almost as obsessed with Lilith as Zahariev is.

The audiobook is fantastic. It's a duel narration, though most of the story is from Lilith's POV so Laura Horowitz does most of the narrating and she did such a fantastic job.

I highly recommend this one to anyone who loves a good feminist retelling story (and to everyone else too because everyone should love that).

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 stars
Review submitted via NetGalley
Title: Terror at the Gates
Author: Scarlett St. Clair
Format: ALC (Advanced Listening Copy)
Narrators: Laura Horowitz & Tristan Warden
Publish Date: Out Now!

I devoured this book.
Terror at the Gates is a slow-burn, dark fantasy romance soaked in rebellion, power, and sin with a feminist edge. Scarlett St. Clair’s retelling of Lilith’s legend is completely absorbing. (I finished in two days!)

The world-building is lush with mythology and magic but grounded in a gritty, urban setting. I especially loved that women wield the magic in this world. It gave the story a refreshing sense of feminine strength and agency, even within a patriarchal world. Scarlett St. Clair’s prose is vivid and immersive, full of evocative language that puts you right into the characters’ shoes.

Lilith is everything I want in an FMC. She is fierce, compassionate, and unapologetic.
Her friendship with Coco (Cherub, too!) was super relatable and heartwarming- real bestie energy!

And Zahariev? Utterly magnetic. (I’ve never been left breathless by an MMC just smoking a cigarette before… 😮‍💨) Hes broody, powerful, and protective, and the chemistry with Lilith is electric.
His controlled, unreadable silence made every end-of-chapter POV from him feel like a decadent treat.

As for the audiobook: chef’s kiss. Laura Horowitz and Tristan Warden bring these characters to life in such an authentic, cinematic way. Laura nailed Lilith’s playful strength and sensuality perfectly.
&Tristan’s deep, calm tone for Zahariev? Couldn't have imagined better.
The pacing was spot on. I never once adjusted the audio speed, which is super rare for me. Easily one of the best audio performances I’ve heard this year!

The only thing that didn’t quite work for me was the “babygirl” nickname from Gabriel. It felt out of place at times, but it never pulled me out of the story.


Final thoughts:
If you enjoy morally complex characters, dark romance, and myth reimagined through a feminist lens, Terror at the Gates deserves a top spot on your TBR. It’s lush, unflinching, and thrilling.

Huge thanks to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the ALC. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!

I adore and am obsessed with Terror at the Gates on page, but the dual narration by Laura Horowitz and Tristan Warden elevates the book in the best way. Horowitz captures Lilith’s bold, bratty energy while Warden’s rough, deep tone captures Zahariev’s broody persona perfectly. Their chemistry sells all the hateful looks, snarky bickering, and THOSE scenes. 😉

The audio is clear and the pacing felt perfect at 1×. The shifts in tones of voice each narrator uses for the side-characters made them instantly recognizable: Esther’s sweetness, Gabriel’s side humor, and the dark, uneasiness of the Church members were all effortlessly portrayed.

What I loved most is how I can still feel the book’s 1920s-mafia-meets-myth vibe. Together, the narrators were able to successfully make a regular recorded audiobook feel like a dramatized one (my ABSOLUTE favorites!)

The found-family aspects are still very strongly portrayed in audio format as much as they were in the text. That one scene with Lilith? STILL (and maybe if not more hearing the heartbreak in the narrator’s voice) SHATTERED me. Beautifully devastating.

Perfect narration, spotless production… easy 5 star audiobook for me. Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for the listening copy!

Audiobook Narration: Overall pacing, pausing, inflection were solid
Female Narrator 5/5 - I loved her performance and think she did a better job with male voices than the male narrator did. I would have preferred she did the whole book tbh!
Male Narrator: What in the cartoon voices were those? The voice used for himself was fine but for dialogue for other people? It sounded like a cartoon villain.

This reads a bit like a mafia romance, but religious?

This was a good time.

I’m finding that I don’t particularly vibe well with the religious plot lines, so that might be a factor in why this wasn’t a knock out for me. I also tend to prefer my MMCs a little less broody. But if you’re into those things? This will be a great read for you!

What’s to love…
- touch her and die
- urban fantasy
- age gap (8 years)
- broody MMC
- forbidden pairing

What’s not to love…
- pacing was a bit off for me

🌶️- Open door, explicit. I listened to an ALC and in typically Jenny fashion, forgot to bookmark while listening. There are less than a handful of scenes.

Scarlett said this is the best thing she’s ever written and I have to agree whole heartedly.

As a religiously traumatized girly myself, I connected to this story so deeply. The themes of self discovery and female rage are ripe and ready for the picking.

The story and world building snagged me from the jump and the plot didn’t suffer lag while the world and characters were built and explored!

I seriously cannot wait for book 2 and for more adventures in this world!

I feel like lately I’ve been really loving books that have an FMC that is written with really well done Feminine Rage — and Scarlett is going to deliver on that every single time. I loved this gritty, “modern” retelling of Lilith that was combined with a really cool neo-noir backdrop. It was so easy to visualize Lilith moving through the city enacting her revenge. Zahariev is the delicious MMC that Lilith has a great push and pull relationship with, balancing a “protector” role from a rival family with the growing tension and feelings the two clearly have for each other. This one may be a slow burn, but you feel every second of the flame between them from start to finish. As a mafia romance fan, I really enjoyed the incorporation of these “ruling families” and the use of magic by the matriarch. I think the addition of this higher power religious group ultimately controlling the stronger female genders really mimics some issues women deal with in the real world and increases the villian aspect of a corrupt religious group. The twists and turns shook me and I’m not sure how I’m supposed to wait for the next book! Plus did a mention there’s a kitten??? Clearly the best pet for Lilith ever! Scarlet definitely delivered a series worth checking out asap!!

**READ YOUR TRIGGERS**

Okay, this book has some kind of magic drug in it—I was completely hooked! I found myself inventing chores just so I could keep listening. The pacing was excellent; even during the slower moments, I was still fully engaged. And the narration… TOP FREAKING TIER. Laura Horowitz is easily one of the best female narrators in dual narration—her performance added so much depth and emotion to the story, she is so talented.

Terror at the Gates introduces us to Lilith Leviathan, estranged from her powerful family and surviving in Nineveh, a district of Eden steeped in sin. Using her magic to steal for a living, Lilith draws the attention of the city’s ruling families and the oppressive church. When a mysterious blade falls into her possession—and her usual buyer dies while inspecting it—Lilith turns to Zahariev, the enigmatic head of the Zareth family. Together, they confront the truth, the church, and the darkness that threatens to consume everything.

The tension and banter in this book had me practically vibrating—it was that good. The chemistry and closeness between Lilith and Zahariev...Chef’s kiss. I loved their dynamic both before and after everything popped off. Their relationship felt genuine, layered, and emotionally satisfying.
I originally gave this book 4 stars, but the more I think about it… there wasn’t a single thing I’d want Scarlett to do differently. So it’s a full 5 stars from me. I can’t wait to see where this series goes next!

This book is a mood. Its atmosphere is dark and ominous; you never know what to expect - no one is safe
Lilith, daughter to one of the five, is my heroine. She steps out to forge a path on her own away from the oppression of her family and the church, while also trying to escape her abusers. Zahariev, leader of one of the five, promises her father that he look out for her. He is there, but honestly, she’s just so badass that she could do it on her own, but why even bother when got a hot, powerful, possessive broody man that calls you “little love” to help you out. I forgive her moments of weakness.
I told someone this book is dark and that I do not recall feeling the sun. That’s the mood of this story - the cities are almost always under darkness. The driving forces behind character motivations are based in religion, submission of women, political and mafia dynamics. There is so much at play. Characters to love and others to loathe - but don’t get too attached (sorry). As for the magic system, I feel like this book barely scratches the surface, because that ending…
The narrators were phenomenal! Laura captures Lilith perfectly and every time Tristan chimed in to speak Zahariev’s parts, however brief, I was swooning.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys dark romance, especially if they love a magical twist to it. Beware, there are a number of possible triggers, to take care to look over the warnings.
Many thanks to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for an early listening copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given voluntarily and are honest and my own.

Another reviewer called this book "gritty," and I truly couldn't think of a better word to describe this story. If you love Scarlett St. Clair's writing style, this book will fulfill your cravings.

Lilith is powerful. A truly badass female main character. She is tough, sexy, intense, and rebellious.

Zahariev is lethal. I absolutely love the way that we get small insights into his thoughts through the short POVs. It is just enough to drive tension, but never fully gives you what you want.

This book is a true slow burn—both the FMC and the reader are kept at bay, yearning for more of the MMC. Such a cleaver way to share this story and build up to the climax.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

✨Thank you, Tantor Audio and NetGalley, for an ALC of this book. All thoughts are my own.✨

Nothing’s ever wrong when it’s love.
~
I remembered who I was. I was not a victim. I was not a sacrifice. I was Lilith, a survivor.
~
This book is absolutely everything and very well may be the best book that Scarlett has written so far, and the final product, from that fun idea hiding in a random tab over 1.5 years ago has become something so magical, so beautifully breathtaking, so emotional and powerful and everything between, and it’s because Scarlett puts her entire heart and soul into everything she does to bring the world stories that help them heal and help them find strength, and that’s what Lilith does as Zahariev quietly yet constantly supports her from the shadows and she navigates life in Eden in her own terms, and even ends up fighting some pulsing, blobby demons — just a normal Tuesday, right? There are truly not enough words to describe my love for this books or how genius and fantastic it was! Lilith’s journey is heartbreaking and frustrating and empowering and I can’t wait to see where she takes us. Z is down bad, and is the epitome of touch her and die vibes, and the way he moves around her orbit and listens to her is incredible. And little love? Don’t get me started! The dagger is such a captivating way to lead us through the beginnings of this story and it, along with the lore and symbolism (something Scarlett truly excels at) had me fully immersed and I didn’t want to come up for air, even as I was texting her absolutely unhinged reactions!

The audio is just phenomenal, and my feelings from above on the book as a whole remain, but there was something so special and ethereal about the audio for this book and I loved it!

The feminine rage from this book will sustain me for days. This is a fascinating take on the story of Lilith. If you have any type of religious trauma, be sure to stay aware of the content warnings, but you'll appreciate the fight our girl embodies. She's strong-willed, angry and ready to take on the society that tried to force her into a box. Enter Zahariev, the most devoted protector. The tension between the two drips off the page as their slow burn romance blazes into an inferno. The narrators perfectly capture the essence of these characters and make the book that much more enjoyable. Go read this now.

MMC: Zahariev
FMC: Lilith Leviathan
Exciting: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Romance: 💓💓.5
An intriguing story with could have used some more world building. The repetitive behaviour and slow pace made me feel like nothing was really happening and even the romance was bland, fortunately; Zahariev's yearning or obsession for Lilith kept me hooked, but after some point is just annoying to see how much he's giving, just for the FMC to ignore it.
Hoping to see more action in the next book, and learn more about some of the lovely other characters.
Unfortunately, the narrator's choice to voice second characters didn't captured me, so I feel like I'd have enjoyed this book more if I read it instead.

Scarlett St. Clair launches a promising new romantasy series with "Terror at the Gates," introducing readers to Lilith Leviathan, a compelling protagonist who defies expectations in the sin-soaked district of Nineveh. After being estranged from her powerful family, Lilith carves out a living using her magic for theft, setting up an intriguing premise that blends urban fantasy elements with romantic tension.

The world-building shows promise, with Eden's district system and the tension between the governing families and the church creating a rich backdrop for the story. Lilith's relationship with Zahariev, the enigmatic head of the Zareth family, develops naturally throughout their mission to uncover the true power structures of their world. Their dynamic shifts convincingly from allies to something deeper, though their growing connection threatens the very fabric of their society.

The pacing feels somewhat uneven at times, with certain sections moving more slowly than others, which occasionally disrupted the narrative flow. However, the story maintains enough momentum to keep readers engaged, particularly during the more action-heavy sequences involving the mysterious dagger and its consequences.

The audio narration was decent, bringing the characters to life without being particularly memorable. The dual format allowed for flexibility in consumption, which was appreciated.

One aspect that may frustrate some readers is the number of unanswered questions by the book's end. While this is clearly the first in a series, several plot threads and world-building elements feel incomplete. I'm hoping subsequent installments will provide the answers and deeper exploration that this foundation deserves.

Despite these minor issues, "Terror at the Gates" succeeds as a series opener with a strong female protagonist, an intriguing supernatural world, and romantic tension that doesn't overwhelm the plot. St. Clair has created a solid foundation for what could develop into a captivating series.

Recommended for: Readers who enjoy romantasy with morally complex characters, urban fantasy elements, and don't mind waiting for answers across multiple books.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for providing this audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Scarlett St. Clair is back with the first instalment and a new series and WHAT A FIRST INSTALMENT IT IS!!!!

I enjoyed every single second of this. From the very outset of the story my interest was piqued and from then on I found it incredibly difficult to tear myself away.

Lilith is a force to be reckoned with, we see her deal with so much throughout the course of this book and still she stands steadfast and fierce in her morals and beliefs despite things she could easily let send her off course.

And Zahariev? My god. The pure PINING from this man!!!! I ate it up!

I can’t wait to see where Scarlett St. Clair takes this journey, I’ll for sure be along for the ride.

This book surprised me in the best way. It starts off a little slow, but once it gets going, it really picks up. I loved how dark and gritty the world felt, and Lilith is the kind of chaotic, angry, morally gray character I can totally root for. The themes around power, religion, and control were done really well without feeling preachy.

Also, Zahariev? I get it. The slow-burn tension, the danger, the protectiveness… I was hooked.

It’s definitely setting up for a bigger story, so not everything feels fully fleshed out yet, but I’m into the vibes, the stakes, and where this series is heading. I’m really looking forward to the next book.

Thankyou NetGalley for the ALC of TATG in exchange for an honest review!

I all but devoured this book! It's been a long, long time since I've experienced such a satisfyingly perfect blend of urban fantasy, Romantasy and mystery/suspense. When I tell you that I NEED the sequel right now, you better believe it.

I have to be completely honest, I had tried reading St. Clair's hades×persephone retelling when it was first released and had DNFed it barely 20 percent through and because of that I did have my doubts whether this book (and author) would be for me or not. But that book cover and that blurb was way too good to not give it another try. And second time was definitely the charm because I'm truly blown away! It's a 4.5 stars for me honestly.

The book is very simple and easy to read in its writing but it doesn't need to be overly complex to get the point across. The depiction of religion trauma through an urban setting makes it unavoidable to acknowledge the mirror that St. Clair is holding up to the current affairs of the world right now. We might be mistaken to believe that the plotline is dystopian but nothing depicted is from the far future, most of it, if not all (except for the magic ofcourse but who knows lol) is something that's already happening. I greatly appreciated the message of true feminism through Lilith as well. She's clear about the gender injustices in her world but she never misdirects her rage. She is full of ange and frustration but she never becomes unbearable as a character because of it. Lust and sex appeal is part of her overall character arc but it's not done in a way that ultimately makes her a sex object when it comes to the spicy scenes. She is not a one dimensional and hypocritical feminist icon, as just so happens to be portrayed in a lot in romantasies. The mother arc was definitely a surprise though for me.

One of the best thing about this book however, was the yearning. The chemistry between Zahareiv and Lilith was like a continuous controlled explosion! It was natural and subtle yet very VERY evident. I see what St. Clair did with the length of Zahareiv's POV lengths and I definitely appreciated it! His POVs were short and concise while giving us teasing glimpses into his well hidden thoughts. They are at once mysterious and full of hints. His presence in the story are like his POVs too. Lilith is the main character and he is along for the ride and that is understood by all and we love that for them! And the payoff for all that yearning through 80 percent of the book??? Perfection. Toe curlingly satisfying! Fantastic, give me fourteen of them!

Even though I'll probably will have to wait
another year for the sequel, I really hope to see the magic system explored more in book 2 because I think that's one of my only cons of this book.

Again thank you NetGalley for the ALC of this book!

Fantastic read. I really enjoyed the world building here. The modern mixed with a very religion centered patriarchal society. I enjoyed the forbidden romance, rebelling from the family, and forging your own path.
I like the overall gist that the old gods have been replaced and trapped and need to be released. I think the overall book was well written and told, I will 100% read the second one

A delightful mix of dystopian and fantasy! This book was unique and new and a breath of fresh air with its distinctive world building and plotting. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. With that ending I NEED to know what happens next.

TERROR AT THE GATES🐍❤️

“RATHER BE A SINNER”

Wow ok. If you can imagine House of Earth and Blood and then combine it with Ninth House, with more sultriness and danger you have Terror at the Gates.

Firstly, the narrators for this book were sublime, I love listening to a duet with passion and can communicate the storyline perfectly and they delivered.

Were introduced to our FMC Lilith, she’s a badass, doesn’t follow the rules, powerful and has a unique magic - which I was super intrigued to know more about. She finds herself in immense financial difficulties in this urban world of the City of Sin. She’s forced herself to find an alternative to income by stealing and selling on. In some ways I found her too toxic and manipulative in the beginning until you come to understand why, further along in the plot.

Lilith stole a dagger and went to sell it to pay for her rent, and uses her power to manipulate people into getting what she wants. There’s some strange aura about the dagger which made me scream instantly “this is a bad idea, don’t touch it”. When Lilith goes to a buyer for the dagger he touches it and unfortunately dies, but we don’t understand why.

Incoming Zahariev our MMC a protector and an intense business man of a club - a dance club. And when I mean intense I mean he’s a gatherer of information and extorter When Lilith realises what’s happened with the dagger she knows she can’t sell it and pay for her rent. Zahariev offers her an interview at the club. One where Lilith has been desperate to work. However they have history and things certainly get steamy.

There’s lot of world building and information in the beginning which was slightly complicated to follow especially with the various houses and the heads of those houses. Who are your allies and who are your enemies. However, it’s such an intriguing and enticing story, the trauma Lilith has been through with the tensions of the church are so emotional, the spice is so well done and the brewing forbidden connection forming between Lilith and Zahariev was brilliant. However it didn’t make me feel deeply connected to them.


Things I LOVED

🐍 FORBIDDEN LOVE
❤️ HE FALLS FIRST
🐍 SLOW BURN
❤️ FRIENDS TO LOVERS
🐍 DARK ROMANTASY
❤️ EMOTIONAL


Thank you so much Tantor Audio for the ALC via NetGalley.