Does It Hurt?

Does It Hurt? is a dark romance novel by international bestselling author H. D. Carlton that incorporates horror, suspense, and supernatural fiction elements. Dark romance is a literary genre that features a central romance with darker themes and more mature elements, such as complicated sexual dynamics. Published in 2022, Does It Hurt? was ranked #1 on Amazon’s list of Ghost Thrillers. Carlton’s other works include the Cat & Mouse Duet, a two-book series that includes Haunting Adeline and Hunting Adeline.

Carlton frequently utilizes the “enemies to lovers” trope, which Does It Hurt? employs: This involves the two main characters slowly falling in love after initially disliking or working against each other. The novel follows Sawyer, an identity thief fleeing persecution after killing her abusive brother. She robs Enzo Vitale, a stoic Italian man, in Port Valen, Australia, and the two are shipwrecked on Raven’s Isle after he takes her on his boat to exact revenge. The island is solely occupied by lighthouse operator Sylvester, who exhibits suspicious and threatening behavior. Sawyer and Enzo, though enemies, grow closer as they struggle to survive Raven’s Isle and escape from Sylvester’s clutches.