Terror at The Gates follows the FMC, Lilith, as she lives her life away from her mafia-style family in a neighbouring district to her own, under the protection of Zahariev, the head of one of the rival families. While here, she gives a false name to hide her true identity from all but those closest to her and she lives in relative poverty compared to her childhood, trying to carve out a life she can call her own.

Death and disaster start to follow after Lilith steals a fancy-looking blade one evening, hoping to sell it to make rent. But how can a blade bring so much destruction? With the help of Zahariev, Lilith seeks to learn the truth of it all, while risking a war to be together.

The book is set in Eden, an area split into five distinct districts, each run by one of the families, with the church governing them all.

In Eden, women are treated as second-class citizens, their lives controlled by the men they are chosen to marry, and their magic, which only women are able to develop, becoming part of the power and control their husband takes. Lilith is defying the role that is expected of her by society, trying to prevent her life and body becoming a prize for a power-hungry man to take. Her parents and the church have other ideas and seek to bring her back in line by any means necessary.

This is a religion-based storyline, focused on the church, the power it has, and corruption within it. Although not religious myself, the connections back to Catholicism within Terror at The Gates made the story feel more real than a typical fantasy novel, especially as someone living in the western world.

The relationship between Lilith & Zahariev is fantastic - the slow-burn tension between these frenemies is delightful. This is a sizzling slow burn, and the spice, when we get there, is absolutely delicious as a result. Scarlett truly knows how to write a spicy romance.

Lilith is badass. She's a magic wielder, she's strong and resilient, and she's learning to understand her emotions after years of repressing them. However, I did find her quite impulsive at times, which could be frustrating, and some of her decisions seemed unfounded. After the ending, though, I can't wait to see how her character develops in future books.

Zahariev. Damn. He's a tattooed (naturally), brooding man, with a quiet level of power that garners a lot of respect and trepidation. He worships the ground Lilith walks on, and will (and does) kill for her. He's also got a bit of a dirty mouth and slightly dommy tendencies, which we all love. I do feel like we are missing some of Zahariev's backstory - he just exists as he is in the book - but I'd love to know about what has made him the way that he is, and how he built his name to be one of fear.

The friendships in Terror at The Gates are so beautiful! They add a warmth to the story and some much needed comedic relief at times, with witty banter and the tough love that only friends can provide. Not to mention, there's a little black cat! Cherub! It was mentioned very briefly, but I have a feeling that Cherub might end up being more significant to Lilith than just being a pet.

The book is dual POV, however, it's an interesting take on it. Every chapter is almost entirely from Lilith's POV, except for a small Zahariev snippet at the end of each them, which adds a unique layer to the story and gives you a glimpse into how he feels about Lilith and his motivations.

There was a lot of world-building at the start and to be honest, I didn't find it the easiest to get into the book until I hit the 25% mark. I normally love the world-building in a fantasy but I think the pacing felt a bit off and that's what threw me. This is a pretty lengthy book, and I think it seemed slow in some places but fast in others. Although there are some key events in Terror at The Gates, I do feel like this book is more a set-up for the main storyline, almost?

Overall, I really enjoyed Terror at The Gates, and I'll definitely be reading any sequels because I simply have to know what happens next! I will also be buying a trophy copy, because the cover is gorgeous.

NOTE: this book touches on some very traumatic events so I'd advise checking content warnings before reading.

Thank you so much to the author and publisher for a copy of the eARC 🖤

Z and Lily are friends and have been forever, she had a silly childish crush on him as he was a bit older and gorgeous but they remained friends. He fell first and hard and is clearly obsessed with her - the little snippets of his POV were perfect. I loved him immediately. This is a slow burn, the tension and yearning is gorgeous.

Nobody does found family like Scarlett St Clair, the side characters are, as per with her books, my favourite. I loved them with my whole heart.

The corrupt religious lead themes in the story really grip you and the magic system - of course the women have the magic and men use it to their advantage. I always find it interesting when women hold the real power and yet men are the leaders and hold all the social power.

Lily has religious trauma and her story is told fairly early on, this goes hand in hand with her early life/parental trauma. The relationship between her and her father had me wanting to cry, she just wants his unconditional love and acceptance.

This took me back to how I felt reading The Touch of series, I loved it, devoured it. I'm so thankful to have read this early however knowing I'll have to wait and cannot binge the entire series in a few days pains me.

Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks UK for the opportunity to read early - thoughts are my own

A dark and empowering exploration of the impact being raised in perhaps a very strict religious culture or cult can have on individuals.
The magic system was interesting and the mystery throughout the story kept me wanting to know more. The pacing was good and there were many events that spurred on the action and kept me hooked. The glossary was useful in understanding some of the lore surrounding this modern world, I’d love to see more character art and maps/visuals in the future.
Please take serious note of the trigger warnings, there is some extremely sensitive subject matter that may not be suitable for all readers.

📝ARC Book Review📝
Title: Terror at the Gates
Author: Scarlett St. Clair
Publication Date: July 08, 2025
Rating: 3.75/5 stars

Darkly seductive and defiantly feminist, Terror at the Gates is a sharp blend of magic, rebellion, and morally gray romance.

Banished and estranged from her powerful family, Lilith Leviathan survives in Eden’s sinful district, Nineveh, by using her magic to steal. When a mystical blade leads to a buyer’s sudden death, Lilith is forced to seek help from Zahariev, a powerful ruler with secrets of his own. As they dig into the blade’s origins and the dark forces behind their world, they uncover dangerous truths, awaken forbidden power, and risk everything for a love that could ignite a war.

Scarlett St. Clair writing is richly atmospheric and immersive, though the worldbuilding can feel slightly front-loaded at times. Her prose skillfully balances sexual tension and gritty fantasy, creating a mood that’s both captivating and intense. The romantic tension simmers nicely, and the story offers a thoughtful exploration of power, religion, and autonomy.

I should also add that, while I thought the concept was fantastic, I found the pacing to be awkward at times, which occasionally stalls the story’s momentum. Still, it is an excellent start to a series and is laying the groundwork for strong future installments.

If you like your fantasy with edge, your heroines unrepentant, and your romance exceptionally dark, Terror at the Gates absolutely delivers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks UK for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 ✨omg i loved this book from start to finish!!
Our poor Fmc Lilith is always landing herself and find trouble
but lucky for her our Mmc
Zahariev is always there to save her. Lilith has magic in her blood not the kind of magic her family approve of (sex magic) she's is able to use lush she's feels around her to use her magic.
She's is also a thief just trying to earn her way so she's doesn't have to go back and live with her parents, her Father has asked Zahariev to protect her while she's in his city but that is hard than is should be as she's always in trouble
Overall this book was amazing and I can't wait for the next book!! Highly highly recommend 🥰🥰

4.5/5

"𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂 𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒔"

I could not put this down! I read the first 65% in one sitting and it had me up until the early hours of the morning. I would have finished it all in one go if I could have kept my eyes open.

I'm sad it's over so soon and I am chomping at the bit for book 2. This was my first book by Scarlett St Clair and I am so annoyed I haven't got to her work sooner. I adore her writing style and world building.

If this book has taught me anything, it's that I need more Scarlett St Clair and urban fantasy in my life. The romance, spice and slow burn was perfection. I loved the characters and I can't wait to see how they grow and develop, especially Lilith.

I did feel that it was a little lacking on plot for the length of the book but I thought the premise of the book was really interesting and I wanted to know more. But it was a great setup for the next book.

Super grateful to NetGalley and Sourcebooks UK for giving me the chance to read this early!

Terror At The Gates - Scarlett St Clair

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book had me hooked from the very first chapter. I dropped everything else the second this book hit my library and it did not disappoint!

Having read all of Scarlett St. Clair’s books, I can safely say Terror At The Gates is her most intriguing yet. It weaves together themes of religion, danger, relationships, and more in a seamless, compelling way. The writing is, as always, masterful, and I truly felt immersed in the world of Eden.

What struck me most was how, despite the mythical setting, the city’s politics and distinct districts felt deeply familiar—almost as if Scarlett was writing about any major city in the real world. That realism made me feel deeply connected to the story, as though Lilith were exploring my own city.

This book checked all my boxes:
☑️ Forbidden romance
☑️ Dual POV - I loved this unique use and would definitely want to see more of it in future books
☑️ Smitten MMC - “They will call her demon, but I watched her transform, and I will call her goddess”
☑️ Independent FMC
☑️ Perfect balance between romance, tension, and danger
☑️ “Touch her and die” energy

I can't wait to see where Lilith’s story goes next!

The way I dropped everything to get a copy! Happy to say this did take over my life for the past 3 days.

Terror at the gates was everything and more! I went in blind and it didn’t disappoint, its feminine rage in a religious society mix in a little murder mystery and boom you’re here.

“𝓦𝓮 𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓹𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓲𝓫𝓵𝓮 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓽 𝓲𝓷 𝓶𝓮𝓷. 𝓦𝓮 𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓭, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝔂 𝓭𝓮𝓼𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓭.”

Lilith our MC maybe be in the wrong territory but is surrounded by a support group of friends which I loved, the interactions between them are so heartfelt and you can tell they’d drop anything to have her back.

The chemistry between her and the ML is HOT you can feel his yearning with every chapter ( btw ima need a longer pov from Zahariev) and I can’t wait to see how they grow.

The ending has me hooked and I’ll definitely be reading the next one.

I flew through this book pretty quickly and genuinely enjoyed the reading experience, even though the story felt very light on plot. Frankly, I doubt it could have stood on its own without the promise of future installments. It reads more like an extended setup for the rest of the series than a complete, standalone novel.

Terror at the Gates is an urban fantasy that follows Lilith Leviathan, a magic-wielder on the run from her family, and Zahariev, the powerful, mafia-like ruler of a dangerous district, as they uncover a deadly conspiracy. The book is marketed as a feminist retelling of the Biblical Lilith, and while the references to Catholic lore provide a really cool foundation for an urban fantasy world with mafia undertones (which I loved!), the feminist angle felt more like the personal emancipation of the main character than a meaningful commentary on the oppressive society it presents. Maybe this will change in the next installments though.

I'm conflicted about the characters. I didn’t find them annoying or anything – just not particularly interesting. Lilith felt pretty flat as a female lead, to be honest. She doesn’t stand out much from Persephone, the protagonist in Scarlett St. Clair’s Greek mythology series. I won’t go into detail to avoid spoilers, but the similarities are hard to miss. The same goes for the male lead, Zahariev, who closely resembles Hades and, honestly, doesn’t bring much to the table on his own. He’s your typical romantasy brooding love interest. Their dynamic didn’t do much for me – it wasn’t bad, just not especially compelling or original.
That said, I can absolutely see how the similarities between the author’s older and newer characters might work for some readers. Fans of the Hades and Persephone series will probably enjoy stepping into a familiar vibe with a different set dressing. If you're here for more of the same, you’ll likely be satisfied. But if you’re craving something new and subversive… maybe not so much.

One of my main issues with how Lilith and Zahariev’s relationship is presented is that it feels like we’ve been dropped into the middle of a much longer story. The two leads clearly share a complex history – something between friends and rivals – but we’re given very little insight into how that dynamic actually developed. It’s a shame there aren’t more substantial flashbacks or glimpses into their past, which could have added depth and emotional weight to their connection.

Shifting focus to the plot, the pacing felt a bit bizarre. Sure, things were technically happening, but for about 75% of the book, the characters were mostly engaged in fairly mundane activities – nothing particularly thrilling. Then, all of a sudden, things start to get real, and everything of importance happens within the last 100 pages.

The pacing issues are definitely tied to the lack of a compelling plot. Simply put, there isn’t enough story here to justify over 400 pages. Much of the book feels like setup – introducing characters, laying out dynamics, and teasing the world – without delivering much in terms of narrative payoff. Honestly, several scenes could have been cut without any real impact on the story. And just when things finally start to get interesting, the book ends.

Another point worth mentioning: while I found the world-building genuinely engaging – simple, coherent, and immersive – the magic system felt underdeveloped and not particularly essential to the plot. It’s introduced, sure, but not explained in any meaningful way, and ends up feeling more like aesthetic dressing than a core element of the story. I get that this is the first book in a series, and future installments will likely dive deeper into these elements – but that doesn’t change the fact that I still have no real idea how Lilith’s magic actually works.

Soooo… while this book is definitely a smooth and enjoyable read, it’s hard to shake the feeling of wanting more – and not in a “can’t wait for the next one” way, but more in a “this wasn’t quite enough” way.

Scarlett’s latest offering marks the beginning of what promises to be a deeply atmospheric and richly imagined dark fantasy series. I found myself completely immersed in its slow-burning plot, layered lore, and magnetic sense of mystery. The pacing is deliberately measured, prioritizing mood, character, and worldbuilding over relentless action. and for a first entry in a new series, it works.

Set against a backdrop steeped in religious symbolism and arcane tradition, the novel builds a world that feels both ancient and eerily relevant. The theological underpinnings are particularly well-rendered, offering a nuanced, if at times brutal, exploration of institutional power and personal faith. These elements are woven into the narrative with such precision that they become central to the protagonist’s journey rather than mere thematic window dressing.

Our protagonist, Lilith, is an incendiary figure, often conflicted, and always compelling. Her personal trauma is palpable, and the emotional weight she carries provides the novel with its most moving moments. Interactions with her family, especially scenes with her mother and a particularly striking one with her father at a gala, left a lasting impression. However, her choices often defy logic, making her feel frustratingly impulsive. That said, her imperfections also make her real, and in many ways, her contradictions are part of the book’s greater point.

Zahariev, the male lead and love interest, enters the story with a promising reputation, as a feared leader and powerful presence, but his development feels underwhelming. While flashes of personality and humor offer hope for future installments, his current role feels more archetypal than fleshed out. The chemistry between him and Lilith is certainly present, though it lacks depth; their relationship seems to arrive partially formed, with little context for their connection. Their romantic dynamic may resonate more in future books with further development.

What this novel excels at is tension. The mysteries surrounding key artifacts, secrets buried in the past, and the murky motivations of certain characters kept me riveted. The plot is undeniably character-driven, and though not much happens in the traditional sense, the sense of anticipation is expertly sustained. By the time the final page arrived, I felt as if the story had only just begun, only to be met with a cliffhanger so abrupt and jarring it left me audibly gasping. The next installment cannot come soon enough.

Some aspects of the novel’s feminist discourse raise complicated questions. While Lilith’s agency is a driving force, the nature of her chosen profession and the ways in which it operates within a patriarchal framework are not without tension. It’s a dynamic the book seems aware of, though readers may come away with differing interpretations of its effectiveness.

Supporting characters, particularly Coco, Gabriel, Ethser, and Cassius, offer a welcome injection of warmth and wit. And yes, there’s even a black cat named Cherub whose significance may extend beyond feline companionship.

The novel also takes an unflinching look at the darker sides of religious institutions, tackling themes of indoctrination, repression, and spiritual trauma with sensitivity and empathy. Lilith’s internal struggle with faith and identity is especially resonant, though at times the narrative voice feels blurred between character and author. This is most noticeable in the early chapters but settles as the story progresses.

Ultimately, this is a confident and compelling introduction to a new fantasy world. Its greatest strength lies in its mystery, what isn’t said, what isn’t explained, and what is only hinted at. With a simmering undercurrent of rage, trauma, and transformation, this book sets the stage for what could become a standout series.

Thank you NetGalley for giving me this ARC in exchange of an honest review.

After reading and loving A Touch of Darkness from this author I was sooo fucking excited about this new series and it definitely didn't disappoint!!!

I loved Lilith and Zahariev and all their friends!!! There were so many moments where I laughed out loud, so many cute moments... but of course with every Scarlett St. Clair book there are also spicy moments that are sooo hot. It's a real slow burn so it's a little wait until those scenes but they are so worth it.

The plot was really interesting and I honestly can't wait to see what happens in the next book!!!

I adored this book soo so much. It was such a strong and powerful start to a new series.

It has been incredible to witness the shift and growth in Scarlett’s work, and this books is proof of that. I was hooked from the start.

The world building was stunning and the tension between Lilith and Zahariev had me kicking my feet. I adore how Scarlett tackles hard subjects and this is evident with how Lilith is clearly (and rightly so) battling religious trauma yet she doesn’t just write off faith because of it.

I thought my heart would always belong to Hades and Persephone but I think there is now a strong contender for top spot.

I will be rattling the bars of my cage awaiting the next book.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and publishers for the eARC.

4 stars ೃ⁀➷ absolutely DEVOURED this feminist retelling of Lilith's story with fantasy mafia, female rage and the repercussions of religion.

What to expect:
🩸 Fantasy Mafia
🖤 Feminist themes & simmering female rage (yet to peak)
🩸 Romantic + Sexual tension 🌶🌶
🖤 Plenty of mystery
🩸 Religious trauma
🖤 Friends to lovers (...?)

My Thoughts

I ate this up in two days no less. This was an excellent slow paced introduction to Scarlett's new series with good and steady world building and I've been left brewing with so many questions. The dark fantasy vibes were immaculate and the religious lore in this book is greatly detailed and had me hooked. There was so much MYSTERY and it hurts that book 2 is undoubtedly so far away but ya girl needs it now. It was the sort of ending where you turn the page with FULL confidence that there will be more but NOPE then you're left gagged and mouth unhinged.

One of the critiques I might make about the feminist theme in the book is that... the type of work our FMC Lilith engages in and actively wants to engage in isn't really quite feminist. Argue with the wall, it's still catering to the desires of men even if we are manipulating it into something we supposedly control.

My favourite thing about this book was the unknown and the amount of mystery that had been built around certain items etc. I was gripping the book so ferociously with a need for information and it felt like I was just being teased. While not alot actually happened in this book plot-wise (twas quite character driven at the same time), I believe it was a great set up because that ending 🤯🤯🤯

Lilith was an insanely reckless FMC which, at times was actually unlikeable because she made questionable choices, but at other times I loved her. The moments she had with her mother and that one moment with her dad at the gala, I was in fucking AWE of her. My heart also literally pains for her because she has been through so much both in the past AND in this book and it's only book 1 Scarlett LEAVE HER ALONEEEE.

Zahariev (that name is way too long) was a cool MMC. While I got to understand him more as the book went on I don't actually think he had enough personality aside from being the love interest. He was described as the most feared leader yet we didn't really get much of that so I'm hoping we do in the future books. I also feel like how he spoke didn't align with who he was and that his presence didn't feel as big as it should have as a love interest. He has good potential from the moments that have made me swoon and laugh but I need MORE of a presence and just character in general from him.

Lilith and Zahariev's chemistry... I feel like it was totally there but it also feel like we had been dumped into the middle of their story so I didn't really understand why they liked eachother. The word 'hot' was used so much but I need MORE.

Also at the start- are they friends or not? IDK. Also side note- the blurb is kinda wrong about this book? Well not exactly, but what's mentioned in the blurb doesn't happen until WAY on.

The side characters were so good y'all but IDK how a married man was calling Lilith 'baby girl' like DUDE!!!! I loved Coco, Ethser, Gabriel (the bbg guy) and Cassius, they ate. OH!! And Cherub the black kitty (I really hope she isn't just a black kitty).

There was alot of commentary on religion and the toxic culture it can curate, which, as a religious person myself I won't deny because everyone's experiences are unique in their own ways but I believe this book was great representation for people who have unfortunately been victimised by their/a religion. Honestly Lilith's trauma makes me so sad 😭

At times though I wasn't sure if it was Lilith talking or the author so I feel like the both of their voices were blurring together so it did take me out of the book. However this was mainly at the start, and after that I feel like Lilith's beliefs around religion felt alot more better integrated and written.

I can just FEEL Lilith's rage simmering. We got crumbs of it in this book and I am SO ready for more. I feel like that ending just raised all the stakes and introduced a whole new wave of stuff that I'm in awe of. I really, really, am enjoying the fantasy aspect of this book and all the mini elements that are yet to be explained and EEEEKK I just want book 2 like RN.

Now I must wait for book 2. Great! (Have y'all seen the hardcover though, it's stunning)

Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

4 stars

SPRINTED when i saw this was read now!! i’ve loved her previous series and can’t wait to dive in- i’ll be sure to post my review to all retailer sites as well!!