Contract killer Lachlan Kane wants a quiet life working in his leather studio and forgetting all about his traumatic past. But when he botches a job for his boss’s biggest client, Lachlan knows he’ll never claw his way out of the underworld. At least, not until songbird Lark Montague offers him a deal: use his skills to hunt down a killer and she’ll find a way to secure his freedom. The catch? He has to marry her first.

And they can’t stand each other.

Indie singer-songwriter Lark is the sunshine and glitter that burns through every cloud and clings to every crevice that Lachlan Kane tries to hide inside. The surly older brother of her best friend’s soulmate, Lachlan thinks she’s just a privileged princess, but Lark has plenty of secrets hiding in the shadows of her bright light. With her formidable family in a tailspin and her best friend’s happiness on the line, she’s willing to make a vow to the man she’s determined to hate, no matter how tempting the broody assassin might be.

As Lachlan and Lark navigate the dark world that binds them together, it becomes impossible to discern their fake marriage from a real one. But it’s not just familiar dangers that haunt them.

There’s another phantom lurking on their doorstep.

And this one has come for blood.

My thoughts:

Leather & Lark, the second book in the Ruinous Love trilogy, is another dark romantic comedy that masterfully intertwines humor, heartfelt moments, and—yes—serial killers. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessor, Butcher & Blackbird, Brynne Weaver delivers another highly entertaining story.

Lachlan and Lark are characters you can’t help but adore. Lark is unhinged yet endearing—kind, witty, and talented, yet fiercely loyal and sharp-tongued. Lachlan brings out her sassier side effortlessly. Though abrasive on the surface, he’s a true softie at heart. Together, they share electric chemistry and brilliantly witty banter.

The romantic tension was perfectly executed—neither rushed nor overdone. While not a full slow burn, the gradual build-up made their intimate moments all the more satisfying.

My main critique lies with the plot. The first 70% of the book felt slow, with little happening, and once the story gained momentum, certain elements didn’t fully cohere. A few noticeable plot holes slightly hindered my overall enjoyment.

That said, if you enjoyed Butcher & Blackbird, you’ll likely find plenty to love in Leather & Lark. Brynne Weaver continues to carve out a distinct space for herself in the darkly comedic romance genre.

While this installment didn’t captivate me as much as the first, it was still a highly enjoyable read. Weaver’s signature dark humor shines through, the chemistry between the leads is palpable, and the banter is top-tier. My only reservations were the occasional pacing lags and a plot that didn’t always hold together.