Lana Rotaru

Hey there! I'm Lana Rotaru, and I write dark romance that explores the dangerous edges where attraction meets obsession. (And yes, I know that's exactly where the most interesting stories happen!)

I've always been fascinated by the psychology behind what draws people together, especially when those connections aren't exactly... healthy. Growing up between cultures - bouncing between Germany and Eastern Europe - I learned early on that the most compelling stories often live in those grey areas where right and wrong aren't so clear-cut. Those experiences definitely shape the way I write today.

My debut novel "Dangerously Close" came from my own background in journalism (though thankfully with far fewer stalkers than my protagonist encounters!). As a former journalism student myself, I couldn't resist writing about a young reporter who gets in way over her head while investigating a notorious cold case. The story explores what happens when professional curiosity transforms into dangerous obsession - both for my heroine Liv and the subject of her investigation.

When it comes to my writing style, I like to keep readers on their toes. I mix psychological suspense with slow-burn romance that gradually cranks up the heat until you're completely invested in these complicated characters - even when you know you probably shouldn't be. My journalism background definitely shows in how I layer in details and build tension, but don't worry - I promise it's way sexier than your average newspaper article!

I write in both German and English (though "Dangerously Close" is currently only available in German - English readers, I haven't forgotten about you!). There's something fascinating about how different languages can capture different shades of darkness and desire. Sometimes the perfect word for a scene only exists in one language, which makes translating my own work... interesting, to say the least.

When I'm not writing about dangerous men and the women who can't resist them, you'll probably find me binge-watching true crime documentaries (research, I swear!), drinking way too much coffee, or trying to convince my cat that my keyboard is not, in fact, the most comfortable spot in the house to nap. (I'm usually unsuccessful on that last one.)

What can you expect from my books? Complex characters who definitely need therapy, slow-burn tension that'll make you want to throw your e-reader across the room (please don't), and stories that explore the darker side of desire. I don't write traditional heroes - my male leads are usually walking red flags who'll make you question your own moral compass. But that's half the fun, right?

I believe the best dark romance doesn't just shock - it makes you think, makes you question, makes you wonder why you're rooting for people who probably belong in jail instead of a relationship. My stories live in that delicious space between right and wrong, where the best decisions aren't always the moral ones.

Fair warning: if you're looking for sweet, uncomplicated romance, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you like your love stories with a heavy dose of psychological tension, morally grey characters, and enough twists to give you whiplash - welcome to the dark side. We have cookies. (They might be poisoned, but they're worth the risk.)

I love connecting with readers on Instagram and TikTok, where I share snippets of works in progress, behind-the-scenes peeks at my writing process, and probably too many pictures of my aforementioned keyboard-hogging cat. Come say hi - I promise I'm much nicer than my characters!

And to my German readers - danke for making "Dangerously Close" such an exciting debut. To everyone else - stay tuned. There's plenty more darkness coming your way soon!