If you're drawn to historical romances with lots of passionate tension and a rugged, unusual setting, Dark Torment is likely up your alley. Karen Robards sets her story in 19th-century Australia, offering a fresh backdrop for fans tired of the more typical English or Scottish settings. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Sarah - a strong, stubborn heroine - and Dominic, the brooding Irish convict, is packed with sparks, intrigue, and forbidden heat. Readers who love alpha heroes, complicated class issues, and juicy drama will find plenty to savor here.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers bounce off this book due to its slow start, heavy exposition, and a heroine whose mindset around class and status feels dated (or even grating at times). A few found the characters' constant bickering more irritating than electrifying, and the lack of Indigenous representation in its Australian setting is a notable miss. If you prefer modern romances with progressive values, or need both hero and heroine to be immediately likable, this might not be your cup of tea.

A classic, steamy historical romance with a unique Australian setting and plenty of angst - great for genre lovers, but some elements haven’t aged gracefully.

About:

Set in Australia in the mid 19th century, "Dark Torment" by Karen Robards tells the story of Sarah Markham, the daughter of a sheep rancher, and Dominic Gallagher, an Irish convict wrongly transported to Australia. Their forbidden love story unfolds amidst the challenges of convict life, trust issues, and societal expectations. The book is described as a blend of passionate romance, humor, action thrills, and vivid character development set against the backdrop of the Australian frontier.

Characters:

The characters include a handsome Irish rogue and a feisty rancher’s daughter, whose contrasting backgrounds create both tension and chemistry throughout the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style includes detailed descriptions and slower pacing initially, but character development and romantic tension emerge as the story progresses.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a forbidden love story set in 19th century Australia between an Irish convict and a rancher’s daughter. Their relationship is fraught with societal tension and personal struggles.

Setting:

The setting takes place in mid-19th century Australia, highlighting the lives of convicts and the ruggedness of rural life.

Pacing:

The pacing starts off slow and detailed but accelerates as the romance develops, making for a more engaging latter half.

“I don’t know what Pa can have been thinking about, telling us to meet him down here!” As Liza Markham stared over the high wheels of the pony trap her sister was driving, she wrinkled her pert, freck...

Notes:

The story is set in 19th century Australia, focusing on the lives of convicts.

Dominic, the male lead, is portrayed as a proud and handsome Irish convict.

Sara, the female lead, is described as a plain but fair and kind-hearted woman.

The book explores themes of class disparity, as Sara struggles with her feelings for a convict.

The characters have a tumultuous relationship, often exchanging harsh words.

The novel combines elements of romance, action, and historical drama.

The writing style has been noted to have a slow start with excessive descriptions.

Readers have mixed opinions about character development, particularly of Sarah.

Dominic is depicted as a man with a tragic backstory and strong convictions.

The book includes moral dilemmas surrounding love and societal status.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of class struggle, physical abuse, and societal judgment regarding relationships between convicts and free individuals.

Has Romance?

There is a significant focus on romantic relationships and attraction throughout the narrative.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Gentle, highborn Sarah Markham is not prepared for the proud Irish rebel to burst into her life. Sentenced to exile for acts perpetrated against the Crown, Dominic Gallagher will do anything to convince this timid Australian lady that only he can fulfill her hopes and dreams.

Reissue.

August 1985

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401 pages

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Dark Torment

Karen Robards

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