Independent

I wasn't his type. I was his target.

A dark romance of obsession, power, and the price of losing control.

Release updates & early access

The Novel

Independent

She built her life on her terms — her career, her rules, her carefully guarded independence. The last thing she needed was him.

He doesn't chase. He acquires.

When circumstance pulls them into the same orbit, she tells herself she can handle it. She's handled worse. But obsession doesn't negotiate, and he has never lost anything he decided was his.

Independent is a dark romance. It doesn't promise a safe journey — but it does promise an unforgettable one.

Dark Romance Morally Gray Hero Obsessive Romance Spicy Possessive Hero Adult Fiction

The Reader

This book is for you if…

You love a hero who takes what he wants — and you're rooting for him anyway
You read for the tension as much as the resolution
Morally complex characters feel more interesting to you than safe ones
Obsession, possessiveness, and power dynamics are your comfort zone
You've dog-eared half of every dark romance you've ever owned and felt zero guilt about it
You want a story that earns its ending instead of just handing one to you

Independent is intended for readers 18 and older. It contains explicit content, power imbalance, and emotionally intense themes. A full content warning list is available on request before applying for an ARC.

The Author

Lark Elwood

Lark Elwood writes dark romance for readers who aren't afraid of the complicated parts — the power plays, the obsession, the characters who make choices you wouldn't but understand completely.

Independent is her debut novel. She believes every great dark romance has to earn its ending, and she spent a long time making sure this one does.

She writes for the readers who finish a book at 2am and lie awake thinking about it. This one is for you.

Questions

Common Questions

What genre is Independent?

Independent is a dark romance novel for adult readers. It features a morally gray hero, explicit intimacy, obsessive tension, and an emotionally charged dynamic between the two main characters. If you enjoy dark romance authors like Ana Huang, Rina Kent, or Penelope Douglas, this book was written with you in mind.

Is this book explicit?

Yes. Independent is a spicy romance with explicit sexual content. It is intended for readers 18 and older. If you prefer closed-door romance, this one is not for you — but if you're here, you probably already knew that.

Are there trigger warnings?

Yes. Independent contains mature themes including power imbalance, obsessive and possessive behavior, morally gray dynamics, and emotionally intense situations. A detailed content warning list is available to readers — join the reader list or reach out directly to request it before applying for an ARC.

When does Independent release?

A release date will be announced to the reader list first. Join using the form at the top of this page to be notified as soon as a date is confirmed — along with cover reveals, bonus content, and early access details.

What is an ARC and how do I apply?

An ARC (advance reader copy) is a pre-release version of the book given to approved readers in exchange for an honest review posted around or after release. The ARC team for Independent is small and selective. Apply using the form below — all applicants will be contacted, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Stay Connected

Follow the world of Independent

Lark Elwood is active across platforms. Find teasers, aesthetics, and updates — wherever you read.

Advance Readers

Read it before anyone else

The ARC team for Independent is a small group of approved readers who receive an advance copy before release in exchange for an honest review.

Independent contains explicit content, mature themes, and emotionally intense dynamics. Please apply only if you enjoy dark romance and are comfortable reviewing stories with adult content.

If selected, you'll receive your copy along with all the information you need ahead of the release window.