Eva is just 18 years old and interning at a record label when she discovers 16 year old Alora online. Never has she heard a voice like Alora’s and when it’s clear there isn’t anyone at the label interested in hearing this phenomenal talent, Eva takes matters into her own hands. On a whim, Eva offers Alora representation as her manager without knowing the first thing about artist management or what’s about to happen to both of them.
And it turns out Eva was right... Alora is swiftly catapulted into the spotlight of major superstardom, and as the two navigate the whirling vortex of fame—the parties, the money, the paparazzi, and power—they form a deep bond, becoming found family for one another.
But when Alora’s dark and mysterious past begins to infiltrate her present and Eva’s ambition and success blind her to the obvious signs that her client and, most importantly, her friend is in trouble, their lives unravel with disastrous consequences.
DARKENING SONG is a story about friendship and betrayal. It’s a love story, and a story about growing up in an industry which sometimes disregards the needs of young girls and women in favor of self-interest. But more than anything, it’s a story about redemption, and the ways that hopes and dreams can come true in ways we least expect. - publisher's website
Did you ever read a book that continues to haunt you and invade your thoughts long after you’ve turned the last page? For me that book is Darkening Song and no it’s not a horror novel in the traditional sense, but it does revolve around the horrors that can come with the high price of fame. It’s told in dual POVs from Alora and her young manager, Eva providing a rich description of their blossoming friendship and how both the artist and representation side of the music business are affected by sudden fame, executives and all that comes with it. It was also a real eye opener for me on fully formed consent and had me thinking about the recent litigation between a singular named pop star and her former producer. Darkening Song also contains lyrics of Alora’s songs and despite some dark subject matter, it’s a beautifully written novel that I highly recommend.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Saturday Books and Netgalley for the complimentary e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Darkening Song by Delphine Seddon officially releases on Tuesday March 10, 2026 but you can pre-order your copy now or pick it up at your local bookstore on release day! For more information, visit the publisher's website linked above.
