Shantel Davis's Saint Valentine is a gripping tale that delves into the dark and seductive world of crime, power, and complex human emotions. The novel centers around Saint, the formidable heir to a crime empire, and Aria Heart, a woman who has been intertwined with his life for nearly two decades. Their story is one of passion, betrayal, and the intricate dance between villain and damsel, making it a compelling read for fans of romantic suspense and crime drama.

At the heart of the novel is the relationship between Saint and Aria. Their connection is both tumultuous and magnetic, drawing readers into a world where love and danger are inextricably linked. Davis expertly crafts their dynamic, showcasing the tension and chemistry that simmers beneath the surface. The fact that Aria has worn Saint's ring for 17 years adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, hinting at a shared history that is both rich and fraught with unresolved emotions.

The theme of loyalty is central to Saint Valentine. Aria finds herself caught in a web of allegiance, torn between her past with Saint and the perilous present. Her journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, as she navigates the treacherous waters of her new reality. Davis does an excellent job of portraying Aria's internal struggle, making her a relatable and sympathetic character. Her evolution throughout the novel is both believable and satisfying, as she learns to assert her own agency in a world dominated by powerful men.

Saint, on the other hand, is a complex character whose motivations are as enigmatic as they are compelling. His declaration, "I stole her. She ruined me. Now, we’re bound for life," encapsulates the essence of his character—a man who is both ruthless and vulnerable. Davis paints a vivid picture of a man who is torn between his duty to his crime empire and his feelings for Aria. This duality makes Saint a fascinating character to follow, as readers are left to wonder whether he will ultimately be the villain or the hero of his own story.

The novel's setting in the world of crime adds an additional layer of intrigue and suspense. Davis's portrayal of this underworld is both gritty and glamorous, providing a backdrop that is as captivating as the characters themselves. The stakes are high, and the sense of danger is palpable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Aria and Saint's journey.

In terms of character development, Davis excels at creating multidimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. Aria's transformation from a damsel in distress to a woman who takes control of her own destiny is particularly well done. Her growth is mirrored by Saint's own journey, as he grapples with his feelings for Aria and his responsibilities as the heir to a crime empire. This parallel development adds depth to their relationship and keeps readers invested in their story.

Comparatively, Saint Valentine shares thematic elements with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as Sylvia Day's Crossfire series or J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood. Like these series, Davis's novel explores the interplay between love and danger, with characters who are both larger-than-life and deeply human. However, Davis's unique voice and the novel's focus on the crime world set it apart, offering readers a fresh take on familiar themes.

Overall, Saint Valentine is a captivating read that combines romance, suspense, and a touch of the criminal underworld. Shantel Davis has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with characters who linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. For readers who enjoy stories of love and danger, where the line between villain and hero is blurred, Saint Valentine is a must-read.

While the novel is a standalone story, it leaves the door open for potential sequels, as the world Davis has created is rich with possibilities. Whether or not Davis chooses to revisit these characters in the future, Saint Valentine stands as a testament to her skill as a storyteller and her ability to craft a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.