Review of Tell Me You Like It: A Dark College Romance (Legacy of Lies Book 1) by J. L. Beck
When I first stumbled upon Tell Me You Like It, I was instantly intrigued by its dark academia backdrop and the tantalizing promise of forbidden romance. I’ve always had a soft spot for stories that dance on the edge of morality, and the book’s blurb—hinting at a world of secrets and seductive danger—had me hooked. J. L. Beck has crafted a tale that is both gripping and unsettling, beckoning readers into a universe where power dynamics and personal struggles collide.
The heart of the story revolves around Lux, a fiercely independent character whose life turns upside down when her best friend mysteriously vanishes. In a desperate bid for answers, she finds herself reluctantly entangled with Roman Rush, the enigmatic leader of the Sacred Sons—a dark and ruthless fraternity that rules their university with an iron grip. Roman is a beautifully flawed character, notorious for his cruelty yet undeniably magnetic. From their first encounter, the tension between Lux and Roman ignites, leading to a compelling enemies-to-lovers arc that left me breathless.
The themes of power, submission, and the complexity of relationships are entwined throughout the narrative like a delicate web, and Beck’s ability to weave these elements into Lux and Roman’s dynamic is masterful. I found myself torn between rooting for their connection while also questioning the moral implications of it. This internal conflict is beautifully illustrated in the quote, “The more I fight his cruel game, the tighter his grip becomes,” which encapsulates the push-and-pull of their relationship and resonated with my own feelings as a reader—wanting to resist yet being unable to look away.
What truly stands out in Beck’s writing is her pacing and knack for building suspense. The chapters flow seamlessly, making this a page-turner I devoured in one sitting. The captivating prose paired with tantalizing cliffhangers left me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. She strikes a balance between rich description and sharp dialogue that immerses the reader in Lux’s world yet keeps the story moving briskly.
However, it’s essential to note that this book doesn’t offer all the answers. As several reviewers echoed, it really feels like the first act of a larger story, culminating in a cliffhanger that left me anxiously reaching for the sequel. While this can be frustrating, it also speaks to Beck’s talent for crafting a story that hooks you and demands you continue with the series.
Tell Me You Like It is not for the faint-hearted; its lush darkness and themes may be triggering for some. But for those who revel in dark romances akin to The Cruel Prince and enjoy complex power dynamics amidst academia, this book promises to be a thrilling ride.
If you’re looking for a tale that combines mystery, forbidden love, and the allure of dark secrets, look no further. J. L. Beck has opened the door to an intriguing world, and I couldn’t be more excited to continue this journey with Lux and Roman. As for me, I’m left grappling with a mix of anticipation and dread—both for what’s yet to come and the captivating darkness I’ve willingly stepped into.
You can find Tell Me You Like It : A Dark College Romance (Legacy of Lies Book 1) here >>