One of those novels that takes a little bit to truly captivate you, This Monster of Mine is an intense and captivating journey once it does. Admittedly, I wasn't instantly engrossed in the plot, but as I settled into its cadence, I found it impossible to put down.

The idea is intriguing: Sarai, an 18-year-old who harbors resentment for the man who attempted to murder her, is transformed into a Petitor, a magical prosecutor with the ability to spot lies. She is matched with a ruthless, cruel judge named Kadra, whom she holds accountable for her near-death experience and several other killings. Sarai and Kadra have a strong relationship from the beginning, with Sarai balancing her need for vengeance with her attraction to Kadra's strength and charisma.

The way the conflict between Sarai's mission and her love for Kadra was developed was what I found most admirable about this book. One of those morally ambiguous characters that you can't help but find fascinating is Kadra. Despite his brutality, I found the way he handles the corruption in the city to be fascinating, and that intricacy kept me alert the entire time.

The tale is made more suspenseful and dangerous by the political intrigue, and the world-building, which draws inspiration from Ancient Rome, is rich and captivating. The romance is all the more interesting because it is forbidden and full of strife. I was completely engrossed in Sarai's voyage and the lethal game she was playing by the time the plot settled into its rhythm.

I couldn't stop flipping the pages once the tale gained up speed, even if it took some time to get to the main points. This Monster of Mine is a dark and thrilling book if you like political intrigue, morally complex people, and forbidden passion.

✧˖°. ⤷ I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.