Review: Lunar Crest University – An Intense, Forbidden Love Story with High Stakes

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about this book

Finley Dunaway thrives on structure—her life is built around routine and careful planning. But when a late-night encounter with a mysterious stranger throws her off course, she has no idea just how much her world is about to change. That stranger? None other than Luca Serrano, her new British Literature professor—a man running from a dark past and drowning in debts owed to dangerous people. As their undeniable chemistry clashes with forbidden boundaries, both Finley and Luca must decide how far they’re willing to go before their carefully controlled lives spiral out of control. In a story filled with temptation, danger, and the kind of love that burns slow but fierce, Lunar Crest University is a high-stakes mafia romance that proves some rules are meant to be broken.

I received this eARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from Cassidy Hudspeth for free for an honest review. Lunar Crest University is available on November 18th, 2024 on Kindle Unlimited and paperback.

my thoughts

I’ll admit it: I signed up for the ARC of Lunar Crest University purely because of its stunning cover. I mean, who wouldn’t? The dark, moody aesthetic and intriguing title had me instantly curious. But once I read the synopsis—a retired hitman seeking redemption, a forbidden professor-student romance, and dark secrets lurking beneath the surface—I knew this book was practically written for me. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. From the first page, I was completely hooked on the slow-burn tension between Finley and Luca, a push-and-pull dynamic that had me flipping pages late into the night. The story expertly weaves together sizzling chemistry, high stakes, and morally gray dilemmas, making it impossible to put down.

characters that steal the show

The characters are what truly brought this story to life for me. Luca Serrano, our brooding male lead, is a former hitman turned British Literature professor. His devotion to his family—and eventually to Finley—is heart-melting. I loved seeing his tough exterior slowly crack to reveal someone deeply human. The moral complexity of his actions (and his unapologetic protectiveness) made him one of the most compelling characters I’ve read in a while.

And then there’s Finley Dunaway, a 25-year-old student with a penchant for structure and order. I saw a bit of myself in her—especially in how she approaches life with meticulous planning. Watching her evolve through her relationship with Luca felt authentic and natural. Plus, her close friendship with Levi added another layer of depth to her character and showed how much she values her relationships.

relationship dynamics

Luca and Finley’s chemistry is electric. Their connection is instant yet believably complicated, and the forbidden nature of their relationship adds so much tension. You can feel their moral struggles as they fight their feelings, which only makes their eventual surrender all the more satisfying. And let’s not even get started on the spice—Cassidy knows how to write scenes that sizzle. One scene stood out to me more than others, and you’ll know which one I’m talking about when you read it yourself. (What is wrong with me?)

pacing & plot

One of the things I loved most about this book is how it kept me guessing. Sure, I expected some classic beats (hello, dramatic kidnapping scene!), but the way the plot unraveled felt fresh and engaging. The pacing struck a perfect balance: never too slow to lose momentum but with enough breathing room to savor the tension-filled moments. The climax was everything I hoped for and more, leaving me impatient for the next installment in the series. (Cassidy, if you’re reading this, PLEASE don’t make us wait too long!)

writing style & setting

Cassidy’s writing is perfectly matched to this story. It’s dark and brooding when it needs to be, light and witty in just the right places, and always emotionally resonant. She has a knack for writing dialogue that feels natural and real—whether it’s banter between friends or Luca whispering sweet nothings (and spicy somethings) in Spanish. Let’s just say, I melted more than once. 

Set against the backdrop of Lunar Crest University, Cassidy avoids overloading readers with unnecessary details about the setting. Instead, she keeps the focus squarely on the characters and their story, which works beautifully. The university setting feels real enough to ground the story without detracting from its emotional core.

themes & emotional impacts

At its heart, Lunar Crest University is about family, redemption, and love in all its messy, complicated glory. It explores heavy themes—like crime and morality—without ever feeling preachy. Luca’s journey out of his violent past is handled with care, showing that even those with dark histories can seek redemption. And the recurring theme of family—both blood and chosen—adds a layer of warmth and humanity to an otherwise intense story.

This book packs a punch. Both Luca and Finley carry heavy emotional baggage, and watching them heal together was deeply satisfying. One scene in particular, where Luca is on his knees begging Finley to stay, left me teary-eyed. Moments like these—where vulnerability meets strength—are what make romance novels so powerful.

final thoughts

Cassidy Hudspeth has delivered a knockout with Lunar Crest University. It’s spicy, suspenseful, and utterly unputdownable. If you’re into forbidden romance, mafia/hitmen tropes, or slow-burn stories with a happily-ever-after (HEA), this book is for you. The spice level is about a 3.5/5—enough to make you blush, but not so much that it overshadows the story. Just know that this book is dark and steamy, so if you’re faint of heart, consider yourself warned! (Please check the trigger warnings)

What’s your favorite forbidden romance? Drop your recs in the comments—I’m always on the hunt for my next obsession.