This is the second book by this author that I have read and really enjoyed. This book does get a bit dark so please check your trigger warning before reading. A young shape shifter, Susie finds herself at Volmasque academy where Vampires want more than just blood and they will take what they want. To save a fellow classmate Susie entices a vampire to her room instead to find a bond between her and their headmaster that is unauthorized at the Academy. This book takes you through the ups and downs of this forbidden Dark Fantasy Romance. I love Darcy Fayton and highly recommend this book for those that love a student teacher dominant love story.

Bedded by the Headmaster by Darcy Fayton is... a lot. And I mean that in the best way possible if you’re into dark, steamy romances that don’t shy away from morally complicated characters and a heavy dose of spice. Set in the gothic, high-drama halls of Volmasque Academy, this book throws you straight into a world where vampires rule and wolf shifters are, well, the ones ruled. It’s dark, messy, and absolutely dripping with tension.

Let’s start with Susie. She’s guarded, fierce, and haunted by her past (as any good dark fantasy heroine should be). Watching her wrestle with her trauma while trying to protect others made her an easy character to root for—though sometimes I wanted to scream, “Girl, run!” whenever Headmaster Arken came around. Speaking of Arken... whew. He’s broody, broken, and definitely a little toxic, but somehow you kind of want him to figure his mess out. His chemistry with Susie? Let’s just say the sparks might burn your Kindle.

Now, fair warning: this book isn’t for the faint of heart. The power dynamics are intense, and the moral ambiguity is dialed all the way up. If you’re here for squeaky-clean romance or characters who always make the “right” choices, this might not be your vibe. But if you’re down for a forbidden love story where the stakes (and the steam) are sky-high, you’ll probably be hooked.

For me, the pacing wavered a bit, especially in the second half, and I sometimes felt the court intrigue got overshadowed by the romance. But the tension was real, and the world-building—gothic castle, oppressive atmosphere, dangerous secrets—had me locked in. I also liked how the book set up future conflicts for Susie and Arken without leaving me dangling off a cliffhanger.

I’d call this a 3 star read depending on your taste for dark academia-style fantasy romance. Huge thanks to Darcy Fayton, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the ARC. If you’re in the mood for a spicy, morally gray tale that toes the line between passion and danger, Bedded by the Headmaster might just keep you up past your bedtime.

4.5-Star Review of Bedded by the Headmaster by Darcy Fayton

Darcy Fayton‘s Bedded by the Headmaster is the first book in the Susie & Arken Duology, and it brilliantly combines forbidden romance and dark fantasy to create an unnerving and compelling novel. This book, set in a world where vampires reign supreme, and wolf shifters are reduced to pawns of blood and pleasure, delves into issues of trauma, perseverance, and redemption with a surprising complexity.

Bedded by the Headmaster ♦ Darcy Fayton
A Review

Opinion
The plot revolves around Susie, a traumatized but fiercely protective wolf shifter, and Arken, the brooding vampire headmaster. It’s an emotional rollercoaster. Susie is a noteworthy and likable protagonist because she has transformed from a survivor to someone willing to question the system, even at great personal risk. Arken, on the other hand, is a highly flawed character who first embodies his type’s predatory inclinations. Their connection is both scandalous and deeply touching, as we peel back his layers to discover a troubled soul yearning for change.

The gloomy atmosphere of Volmasque Academy is as important to the tale as the main characters, full of mystery and peril. The constant physical and emotional strain has had me on the edge of my seat, wondering if Susie and Arken‘s budding passion will result in their salvation or demise. Though often difficult to accept, Fayton does not sugarcoat the disturbing reality of her surroundings; these characteristics emphasize the story’s significance.

The romance is intense, with sequences that are both erotic and melancholy. Fayton expertly balances want with discomfort, resulting in a dynamic that seems primal and complex. While the spice is certainly hot, it never takes away from the emotional essence of the story.

The only reason this book falls short of a five-star rating is that some darker parts, particularly the institutional abuse of wolf shifters, may be too heavy or unresolved for certain readers. Furthermore, as the first portion of a duology, Bedded by the Headmaster concludes with various loose ends, leaving me eager for the closure in the following installment.

Conclusion

Overall, Bedded by the Headmaster is a daring and compelling book that does not hold back. Darcy Fayton has built a universe that is both captivating and disturbing, with characters you will root for even when they are at their worst. Fans of dark fantasy romance and morally complicated love stories will find this novel completely engrossing. I can’t wait to see how Susie and Arken‘s story continues in the sequel.

Bedded by the Headmaster* by Darcy Fayton is a DARK dark fantasy romance that weaves a storyline of drastic power dynamics and an age gap forbidden love. The novel takes place on the estate of Volmasque Academy, where wolf shifter Susie finds herself bravely advocating for her fellow wolf-shifters, managing the abuse of the vampire students and teachers, and trying not to fall for the handsome and deadly vampire Headmaster Arken.

This was quite a bit darker than I usually read in my romance. I found the world, magic system, shifter and vampire dynamics to all be incredibly interesting and well written. The story really drew me in and I will likely read the follow up. Susie and Arken have a power imbalance, but they have common ground in their relationship, once they realize it. They have very spicy and sweet moments that brought such satisfaction throughout the story. I will say, pay close attention to the content warnings, and heed them if you are a reader with specific triggers. I will give Darcy Fayton all of the credit due for the pre-chapter warning and the post chapter summary. That specific chapter contains sexual assault that is poignant to the story as it reveals just how brutal and horrible the current ruler is. I appreciate Darcy not only warning the reader, but going so far as to include a summary of the chapter for the reader, such as myself, who has a hard time with SA content. Thank you for being so considerate of your readers wanting to try something darker, but still needing to skip a scene or two.
Do not worry reader, Darcy Fayton writes heroines and heroes who fight, persevere, heal, and have a Happy Ever After.

I really don't think this book was my style. I struggled to get into it and the development for the characters was lacking.

3.75 stars. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This one is not for the faint of heart. Huge thanks to the author for providing a chapter warning both at the beginning of the book and then right before said chapter begins. Check your TWs. Lots of depictions of SA and one very detailed, intense chapter of such an attack. The author does provide a chapter summary for those that chose to skip this chapter as well without missing the important details of how it affects the characters story progression.

Having read both Henrikk’s standalone, and Nathanial and Kira’s first book (I paused to go back and read this duet before continuing theirs as it happens chronologically before), I was prepared for the dark themes but even saying so, not prepared enough.
The fury and frusteration I felt reading Susie’s struggles sent me on an emotional roller coaster. To feel so helpless in a word set up against you and your people, yet try to do everything in your power to illicit change and protect others when no one’s protecting you is just the kind of strong fmc I want to read about. And that’s Susie. She’s not weak or naive. She makes the best of the circumstances thrown at her and while at times I felt angry at her total disregard for her own safety and willingness to put others before her, I also found it admirable. Her character takes a beating this whole story and while I’m fond of Arken’s kindness towards her, I can’t say I excuse his ignorance. While I understand his motives of the way he does things, and the compromises he makes to keep himself and the ones he cares about safe, it was still overall hard to justify some of the things happening and wanted someone better for Susie. Hoping there’s more of a redemption arc for Arken in the second book, he’s made some growth here but let’s keep growing. Theres a lot of SA depicted throughout these books, due to the dynamic of warring wolves vs vampires, but this one had a lot more than the others in terms of we see it depicted in other non main characters as well and of that course one extra brutal chapter. Again, I can’t stress this enough, check the TWs first. This is a very dark, forbidden romance set in a cruel world but there are heroes working towards change. Let’s hope they succeed in turning things around.

Thank you @Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC. This is my first book to read by Darcy Fayton and I was not disappointed. The school setting where Vampires are able to rule over Wolves and use them for blood is crazy. Also the beastly way wolves treat each other was sad, but I loved how Susie wants to protect and change this was admirable. I love Susie, she is tough and loyal. A must read.

4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

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What to Expect:
🧛Vampires
🩸TENSIONNNN!!
🧛SPICEE!!
🩸Court Intrigue
🧛Paranormal
🩸Erotica Romantasy
🧛Werewolves
🩸Dark/Spicy Academia
🧛Student/Teacher
🩸Age Gap
🧛Major TRIGGERS!

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Finished Bedded by the Headmaster, and wow—WHAT A FRICKIN RIDE🥵🥵🥵! This book is dark, steamy, and not for the faint-hearted (CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS). Right off the bat, I want to say I really appreciated that it had specific content warnings at the beginning of the book, and again a heads-up before certain intense scenes/chapters. The author, Darcy Fayton, went the extra mile to include a summary so you could skip the chapter but still stay up to speed. It’s a thoughtful touch, especially in such a twisted dark romance with heavy themes.

The story is set in Volmasque Academy, a world of vampires, wolf shifters, and brutal power dynamics, where we meet Susie, a wolf shifter, and Arken, the academy’s headmaster and a vampire. Their relationship is intense, filled with age-gap tension, obsession, and forbidden attraction that keeps you on the edge THE WHOLE TIME. There’s not a ton of world-building here (another spice>plot type), but the focus on their dark romance is more than enough to hold your attention. If you’re a fan of fast-paced, boundary-pushing romance with spice and twisted dynamics, this one’s for you.

Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this, in return for an honest review!!!

❝For you, my dear, there is nothing I wouldn't do.❞

Bedded by the Headmaster - Darcy Falton
★★★★☆

Thank you Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review!

I've read other book in this vampire universe—Collared by the Vampire Prince—and i should say i like this one better because the character is surely more mature and less reckless. A lot more on emotional aspects such as trauma, forgiving, insecurity. Even though the FMC didn't made much difference, the way the author build Arken's character and his back story add so much depth into the plot. I love how he's on a kind and gentle side type of man despite his reputation and position in the academy. It wasn't as spicy as i thought it would be (maybe 3/5) but we also presented with heavier topics so make sure to check the trigger warnings before proceeding.

There's sure a lot of misunderstanding, never ending one at that. Very very little communication, you can easily count the proper ones. I wish they will do better in the sequel.

Personally, i just can't resist age gap older MC type of story and still enjoyed the whole experience. Thinking about picking the sequel!

f you’re in the mood for a spicy paranormal romance, Bedded by the Headmaster by Darcy Fayton is a fantastic pick! The first in the Susie & Arken duet, this story introduces Susie, a wolf shifter, and Arken, the vampire headmaster at Volmasque Academy, where shifters are subservient to vampires. When Susie volunteers herself to spare a younger student from Arken’s feeding, their forbidden attraction ignites, leading to an intense, age-gap romance. Told from both Susie and Arken’s perspectives, the book balances steamy moments with an evolving emotional connection and dark secrets hidden within the academy. It's a quick, thrilling read, but check trigger warnings before starting—it's intense! I can’t wait to see where the sequel takes this story.

I received this book for free for an honest review from netgalley. Thank you for the opportunity.

Not bad at all high spice, which I love. Not bad storyline.

This is a dark, dark fantasy novel. Please read the warnings well and make your choice. A fascinating dynamic between Susie and the headmaster, she goes from waiting and hoping to bring completely in control from chapter to chapter which was a bit strange. The themes were were very harsh and vivid, perhaps too vivid at times. Thrilling but scary at the same time.

My review is posted on goodreads (link: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6895118777) as of 11:55 am on 11/04/2024.

Netgalley Review

If you’re a fan of dark romance that intertwines suspense, intrigue, and intense character dynamics, this book is a must-read. Be warned, this book contains darker themes of non-consent and dubious consent, so check trigger warnings.

The paranormal world that Darcy Fayton has created is rich with species dynamics and hints of magic, plunging the story into a dark academia aesthetic with a compelling twist. Headmaster Arken is an enigmatic figure, balancing between nonchalance and his obsession for Susie—who is both strong-willed and selfless. Their connection teeters on the edge of love, posession, and something far more primal.

My criticism for this book lies in the underdeveloped relationship between Arken and Susie. It could be characterized as insta-love from Arken’s POV, but Susie really goes from hating him to adoring him in a split-second somewhere in the middle of the plot. For a romance book, I wish it focused a bit more on their relationship. Overall, though, it was a good read.

"Bedded by the Headmaster" is an enthralling dark fantasy romance that takes readers deep into the tumultuous world of Volmasque Academy, where vampire headmasters and wolf shifter students navigate a labyrinth of desire, danger, and emotional turmoil. Darcy Fayton’s storytelling immerses us in a richly imagined setting filled with tension and forbidden romance.

At the heart of the narrative is Susie, a wolf shifter with a fierce protective instinct and a haunted past, and Headmaster Arken, a vampire weighed down by his own tragedies. The chemistry between them crackles from their first encounter, and Fayton masterfully builds their connection against the backdrop of the academy’s dark traditions. The story’s premise—a student caught in a web of loyalty and desire—creates a captivating tension that keeps readers engaged.

Fayton's writing is both lush and evocative, bringing the academy and its inhabitants to life. The exploration of power dynamics, especially in the context of their forbidden relationship, is handled with nuance. As Susie contemplates inviting Arken into her life—and her bed—readers are taken on an emotional journey filled with heart-wrenching choices and moments of raw vulnerability.

The narrative doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the characters’ pasts. Arken’s struggles with his identity and trauma add depth to his character, making him more than just a brooding vampire archetype. Susie’s determination to protect her peers, despite her fears, makes her a compelling and relatable protagonist.

Fayton expertly weaves in elements of court intrigue and danger, keeping the stakes high as the bond between Susie and Arken deepens. The steamy scenes are well-crafted and enhance the story’s emotional core, providing a perfect balance to the tension and conflict at play.

However, some readers may find the themes of morality and consent challenging due to the inherent power imbalance in their relationship. Fayton navigates these complexities with care, but it’s a topic that might resonate differently with each reader.

Overall, "Bedded by the Headmaster" is a captivating start to Susie and Arken’s duet, blending romance, fantasy, and psychological depth in a way that will appeal to fans of dark fantasy and steamy romance alike. It promises a thrilling exploration of love, redemption, and the battle against one’s own demons, leaving readers eager for the next installment. If you’re looking for a story that pushes boundaries and keeps you on the edge of your seat, this book is a must-read!

3 ⭐️
5🌶️
“The headmaster had claimed her. And he was here for satisfaction.”

Alright, so Bedded by the Headmaster by Darcy Fayton was one wild ride. The spice? Oh, it’s there—dom/sub dynamics, an age gap, and forbidden vampire-werewolf tension that had me turning pages. Susie and Arken’s relationship brought the heat, no doubt. But plot-wise? It felt like a thin backdrop for all the steam.

Susie was supposed to be strong, but she spent a lot of time waiting for Arken to take charge, and those back-and-forth POV shifts? They got repetitive fast. The “cliffhanger” at the end wasn’t exactly a nail-biter; it felt more like someone hit pause mid-scene.

Tropes:

⭐️Werewolves
⭐️Vampires
⭐️Age Gap Romance
⭐️Professor/Student Romance
⭐️BD$M dynamics


Thank you to NetGalley and Darcy Fayton for allowing me to have an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review⭐️

Warning: This book contains dark themes, non-consensual acts, and brutal scenes. Please read the provided trigger warnings at the beginning of the book before reading.

This dark romance novel, written by Darcy Fayton, centers on Susie, a werewolf struggling with the inability to shift. Unfortunately for Susie, this is not her biggest problem as she lives in a world ruled by the merciless Vampire King Henrikk, where vampires reign supreme, and werewolves are nothing more than sources of food and sex. Susie attends Volmasque Academy, where her path collides with Headmaster Arken, the vampire leader of the school. On a night fueled by desperation, Arken's hunger drives him to feed from Susie, sparking an intricate dance of power, expectation, and forbidden attraction that binds them together.

At first, the book's heavy and brutal scenes made it tough to read, which is likely why other readers have struggled to continue. However, Darcy Fayton's world-building and writing style drew me in. The world offers a fresh spin on the werewolf/vampire trope, and the characters' decisions were explained well enough that I could believe them. Additionally, the development of Susie and Arken's complex relationship kept me invested as the story went on.

While reading, I encountered some elements that didn't resonate with me personally - specifically, the significant age gap between the main characters and certain non-consensual scenes. These aspects simply weren't my cup of tea, but I recognize that others may be perfectly comfortable with them. On a more positive note, I was impressed by Darcy Fayton's thoughtful approach to sensitive content. Her decision to include a comprehensive trigger warning before a particularly intense chapter, along with a summary for those who choose to skip it, demonstrates a considerate regard for her readers' well-being.

Overall, this book is suitable for readers who enjoy dark romance and can separate fiction from reality. If you're hesitant, consider the trigger warnings carefully before diving in.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Recommendation: For readers who enjoy dark fantasy romance and werewolf/vampire fiction. If you're comfortable with mature themes, explicit content, and complex relationships, then this novel is sure to captivate.

I feel like there was so much more that could have been done with this story and these characters. And maybe we will get it in the next book. The relationship that the FMC and the MMC build is so beyond toxic and just messed up. Butttttttt I also couldn’t put this train-wreck down. I just HAD to know what was going to happen each chapter. Like what more could the FMC tolerate and what else would the MMC do that she would excuse.

This just wasn’t for me - I can see where the plot is headed and would probs or enjoy it if it was my bag. But the writing is clunky at points, and the plots progressing too slowly for me. DNF at 30%. 3 stars because if I was into the tropes I’d probably finish it

Bedded by the Headmaster by Darcy Fayton is a perfect book for a dirty spicy steamy reader. This is my 2nd book from Darcy Fayton and this book is just my cup of tea.

The storyline gives me emotional rollercoaster which include trauma, grief, suspense and angst.
The cliffhanger gives me a heart attack. The spicy scenes are very intense and explicit which is my favorites part of the book which include BDSM and age gap. Some scenes also has triggered content such as sexual assault.


✅ Age gap
✅ Dark romance
✅ Headmaster / student
✅ Vampire / shifter
✅ High sexual tension
✅ Plenty of spicy scenes: intense and explicit ( BDSM, anal plugging, anal, toys, praise)
✅ Triggered content: sexual assault
✅ Trauma, grief

I was really into this book! I think it got more interesting towards the middle, so it does start off slow.

In this book there's an academy where vampires are superior to wolves & they're allowed to feed on them & have their “fun”. The FMC (Susie, a wolf) gets taken advantage of so many times & tries to fight for equality. Here comes the Headmaster (Arken, a vampire) who starts taking an interest in her & everything changes: between them & what goes on in the school.

These two were interesting characters: Susie was incredibly selfless and protective of those who couldn't stand up for themselves. Arken is a vampire who had a terrible past and is haunted by it, but as soon as Susie steps into his life you see he starts to crumble & open up.

There are other major characters, like the King, Henrikk (who is a horrid vampire who has Arken in his clutches) His scenes were a bit hard to read. Not because it was triggering for me, but bc it made me angry. In one scene Arken mentions that the King's son, Nathaniel, will take over soon, so 🤞🏽

The spicy scenes were 🥵 (between the MMC & FMC.) At one point it was dub-con, but it was explained why this happened.

This review is not the most coherent, but I recommend this book 100%.

(I loved how the author included that warning for readers who are sensitive to SA, but still summarized what the chapter contained in a way where it wasn't triggering)