In My Hockey Era Ruby Wolff and Mila Kane

In My Hockey Era

If you're a fan of dark romance and hockey, then Ruby Wolff and Mila Kane are authors you need to have on your radar. I recently embarked on an obsessive dive into their works, and I haven't come up for air since. Their books are a gripping blend of intense romance and thrilling world of hockey, making for an "unputdownable" reading experience!

These two Authors are relatively new names to me, but their storytelling prowess in undeniable. Each book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with complex characters and plot twists that keep you hooked from start to finish. The chemistry between the MMC and FMC is palpable, and the dark, edgy themes add an extra layer of depth to the narrative. 

Ruby Wolff

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

https://a.co/d/cr0sW8p

Rich Boy/Goal Boy/Puck Boy dive into the world of the Vipers- Blake, Logan and Travis. Each of these boys carries deep trauma and a profound hatred for their fathers. Their mission is to uncover as much dirt on their dads as possible and take over what they believe to be rightfully theirs. Along the way, they each fall for beautiful women who have their own traumatic pasts. The boys struggle with their feelings and often fight against their emotions, risking the potential ruin of these relationships. 

I really loved Logan and Meadow's story. Despite its heartbreaking nature, Logan's realistic feelings and thoughts when he uncovered a major secret added a layer of authenticity that resonated deeply with me. 

I highly recommend these books and while each could be considered a stand alone, I would start with Blake's story in Rich Boy first!

Mila Kane

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

https://a.co/d/iyrFnCD

Mila Kane came onto my radar through a Facebook as, proving that these ads can indeed be effective! Her books feature the Hellions of Hade Harbor, also known as the Ice Gods. These boys each have troubled pasts, some more heartbreaking than others.  I started with Bad Intentions, a dark hockey bully romance that features an instant hate relationship between Cayden and Lily. The reason behind Cayden's intense reaction to Lily's nerdy word isn't revealed until near the end, keeping you guessing. 

Cayden and Lily might have the most toxic relationship ever, and it was fascinating to see how Cayden would try to fix the horrible thing that he did to Lily. I also enjoyed Asher and Winter's relationship; their book had a lot of fun moments that balance the darker themes. 

There are four books in the series, each featuring an Ice God. Marcus's book isn't out yet, but I absolutely cannot wait to read it! 

Under each author's name, I've attached the link to the first book in each series. These are 5 star reads for me! As I said, I highly recommend these books! You will not be disappointed. 

Side Note: I was recently selected as an ARC reader for S Massery for her newest book Into The Ruin and I cannot wait to review it!! 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brooke Simmons is an avid book reader, blogger, and the author of A Mother's Journey: A Daughter's Grief; Coping with Cancer through Poetry. This deeply personal book holds a special place in Brooke's heart, as it features poems inspired by her feelings and experiences during her mother's battle with terminal lung cancer. If you're in need of a heartfelt and emotional read, this book is a must.

https://a.co/d/ixxbsQc

Dark Taboo Romance Falls Short

 

Hello Friends, 

I have seriously slacked on my blog posts since I started to write my own book, which is going horribly. 

I have also slowed down on how many ARCs I review at a time. When you're on a deadline and rushing to read all of these books at once, it takes the fun out of reading. So this week I am focusing on books that I read in my free time... I am not writing about Onyx Storm this week, because I am still not mentally prepared for it. 

This week, I dove into "Ghost Dick" by Kinsley Kincaid. What drew me to this book? For starters, anything labeled as Dark and Taboo has my immediate attention. If there are trigger warnings, it's an automatic addition to my TBR list. As an avid book collector, I'm always on Mercari hunting for new additions to add to my collection. Every time I come across RIPs edition of "Ghost Dick," it's priced at over $400, which only fueled my desire to read it even more. 

Due to its taboo nature, it wasn't available for download on Amazon, so I went ahead and purchased the paperback edition. The cover is cute, the plot seemed interesting, and the reviews promised it to be a quick read. 

Unfortunately, this turned out to be a terrible read FOR ME. The characters were awful, especially Merrick, who is the MMC. I had to force myself to finish this book.

The story follows Fallom, a girl who is thrust into turmoil after the death of her father. She is forced to move to her father's hometown. Port Canyon, Fallon must live with her estranged grandmother—a very mean and unpleasant woman. Adding to the chaos is the ghost of Fallon's uncle "Merrick," her father's brother, who harbors a resentment towards Fallon. 

The town is cursed, its residents trapped for eternity, compelled to inherit the role of their ancestors. For Fallon, this means becoming a grave keeper, a family duty passed down for generations. The issue for Fallon is that her grandmother has no plans of giving this responsibility up. 

While the premise holds immense potential, the narrative often finds itself overshadowed by the relationship between Fallon and Merrick. Unfortunately, Merrick's character is the weakest link for this book. His childish and immature behavior makes it difficult to sympathize with him or even like him. I can understand his anger about the curse and his dislike for his mom, but his demeanor was so off-putting that I nearly didn't finish the book. Not to mention the overused phrase "stupid little girl."

By the end, Merrick's character remains frustratingly juvenile, even if he appears happier. His relationship with Fallon felt forced. I don't even understand how she could have even fallen for him and had children with him.

Moreover, the other family members and even Fallon's father seemed oddly accepting of this bizarre, frowned-upon incestuous relationship. Obviously, there's more than just a curse going on in this town. 

While the book had the potential to be a captivating tale of family, curses, and supernatural intrigue, it falls short due to the poorly developed character of Merrick.

Before diving into this book, make sure you read any trigger warnings it may have. This book is available in paperback on Amazon. Remember, this is just my opinion on this book. Just because I didn't enjoy the book doesn't mean you won't like it. 

This week I am reading Ruby Wolff's GOAL BOY. 

A Terrible Title for a Book

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Walker Long's "Planet of the Rapes” may raise eyebrows with its title, but don't let that fool you. This book delves deep into themes of female empowerment, inequality, and the consequences of unchecked power.

The story follows Liv, a determined and resilient woman who’s fed up with misogynistic men and the unequal recognition of her efforts. After losing her position to a man, Liv volunteers for a super-secret mission as an astronaut. Joining her are physicist Sanjay and the typical jerk, Duke. Their mission takes an unexpected turn when they're sucked into a wormhole, landing on Earth 400 years into the future, where women are treated as slaves and property.

Duke thrives in this new world and, seeing Liv as a threat, has her sold. Liv ends up with a timid and weak young man, whom she inspires to challenge the oppressive norms of the time. Together, they uncover a way to return to their time. Liv learns that Earth's dystopian future was shaped by a misogynistic president, leading to the loss of women’s rights.

"Planet of the Rapes " is a powerful commentary on the importance of gender equality and the dangers of letting regressive ideologies take root. Liv's journey is a testament to resilience and the impact one individual can have on the fight for justice.

Walker Long’s work is a call to action, urging readers to recognize the importance of empowering women and preventing history from repeating itself. Despite its misleading title, the book’s profound message makes it a must-read.

** I do NOT support the use of AI, and I do not support the title or the cover for this book*** I do believe the Author intended for the book to get the negative attention that it has received.

Descending into Darkness: A Captivating Exploration of Love and Obsession in ‘Dark Therapy’ and ‘Til Def’

Hello, Book Lovers!

I hope you all had a Happy New Year! This week, we’re diving into two gripping novels: Nora Blackwoods’s Dark Therapy and Jodie King’s Til Def. Both of these captivating reads center around a compelling and controversial trope: The Doctor/Patient relationship. 

In these books a female protagonists find themselves intrigued by and falling for their dangerously alluring patients, each filled with red flags and thrilling twists. Stay tuned as we explore the dark allure and complex emotions that these novels expertly unravel. Happy reading!

Dark Therapy by Nora Blackwood

Rating:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Prepared to be enthralled by Nora Blackwood’s latest novel, “Dark Therapy,” a gripping dark romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set against the backdrop of a thriving psychology practice, this story follows Amelia Harper, a talented therapist who believes she can heal anyone- until Damien Blackwell, a notorious hit man with a chilling past, walks through her door seeking help for his obsessive nature. 

As Amelia and Damien’s therapy sessions unfold, the lines between reality and nightmare blur, triggering haunting flashbacks of Amelia’s own traumatic past. Vivid dreams and disturbing therapy sessions leave Amelia unsettled yet inexplicably drawn to Damien. The deeper she delves into his dark world, the more she realizes that love can be as dangerous as obsession, and the line between healer and victim is perilously thin.

Dark Therapy masterfully explores the complexities of love, trauma, and the perilous dance between sanity and madness. With its action- packed plot, great world- building, and wonderfully twisted characters, this psychological thriller is a page-turner that will leave you breathless. Whether you’re a fan of dark romance or psychological thrillers, this book is a must-read that will haunt you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Intense Moments To Look Forward To:

In “Dark Therapy,” there is a chilling and suspenseful scene where Amelia, the protagonist, finds herself in a surreal nightmare during one of her therapy sessions. As she delves deeper into Damien’s dark psyche, she starts experiencing vivid, haunting visions that blur the lines between reality and illusion. One particulary crazy moment occurs when Amelia is suddenly transported to a twisted version of her own past, where she confronts her deepest fears and unresolved trauma in a terrifyingly realistic hallucination. This scene is a pivotal moment in the book, as it forces Amelia to questions her own sanity and the true nature of her connection with Damien. The intensity and psychological depth of this scene make it one of the most memorable and heart-pounding parts of the novel.

Thoughts

The intricate and suspenseful storyline kept me hooked from the very beginning, with twists and turns that make it impossible to put this book down. The book begins with a gripping scene where Amelia, the protagonist, receives an anonymous letter with a single, chilling message: “You can’t save him.” This sets the tone for the intense psychological thriller that unfolds.

The characters are deeply developed and multifaceted, particularly the protagonists< Amelia and Damien, whose dark and troubled pasts add depth and troubled pasts add depth to their interactions and emotions. Amerindian Harper is portrayed as a deeply empathetic therapist struggling with her own past traumas, while Damien Blackwell is a hit man with a cold exterior but a haunted vulnerable side. Their complex personalities make their interactions unpredictable and riveting.

The novel delves into the complexities of the human psyche, exploring themes of trauma, obsession, and redemption in a way that resonates with readers and provokes thought. Throughout the book, Amelia delves into Damiens psyche, uncovering layers of his past that reveal the reasons behind his obsessive behavior. These explorations provide profound insights into the human mind and the impact of trauma.

Feedback

Some chapters may feel slower compared to the rest of the book, particularly the early therapy sessions that delve into Damiens past without much action or plot progression. Interspersing these slower sections with more dynamic scenes or subplots could maintain a consistent level of suspense and engagement. 

Certain descriptions, such as Damien’s cold demeanor or Amelias internal struggles, might feel repetitive, impacting the overall narrative flow. Varying the language and finding new ways to convey these character traits can keep the writing fresh and engaging. 

The ending felt a little rushed, leaving me with unanswered questions. Providing a more thorough resolution or epilogue could give readers a sense of closure and satisfaction. 

Whether you’re looking for sizzling chemistry or intense emotional depth, this book has a balance that appeals to fans of dark romance with a penchant for spice!

Til Def by Jodie King

Rating:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Prepare yourself for a heart-pounding journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche with Jodie King’s “Til Def.” This thrilling dark romance follows Ty, a psychopathic patient at Sacred Heights Asylum, and Raven, a new therapist assigned to help him in his final days before release.

Fifteen years of confinement have only sharpened Ty’s sinister desires, and he sees Raven as the perfect target for his twisted obsession. As raven steps into Ty’s world, she quickly realizes that her mission to heal him is far more dangerous than she anticipated. The line between therapist and patient blurs as Ty’s dark fantasies and Raven’s innocence collide, creating a volatile mix of terror and desire. 

King masterfully crafts a story that is as seductive as it is horrifying, with vivid descriptions and intense scenes that will readers breathless. The psychological depth and raw emotion in “Til Def” make it compelling read for those who crave a dark romance that pushes the boundaries of love and madness. 

With its gripping plot, complex characters, and spine-chilling atmosphere, “Til Def” is a must-read for fans of dark romance and psychological thrillers. Dive into this twisted tale and experience the thrill of a romance that dances on the edge of sanity.

Intense Moments To Look Forward To: 

Without giving away too many spoilers, one of the most intense and craziest moments in “Til Def” occurs when Ty’s calculated manipulation takes a horrifying turn. In a chilling scene, Ty orchestrated a psychological game that blurs the lines between reality and nightmare for Raven. As she navigates this twisted mind game, she finds herself trapped in a perilous situation where her own sanity is at stake. This moment showcases Ty’s dark genius and Raven’s struggle to maintain control, making it one of the most memorable and heart-pounding parts of the book. 

Thoughts

The books delves deep into the minds of Ty and Raven, exploring their psychological complexities. Ty’s manipulation of Raven during therapy sessions keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering what he will do next.

Ty is not just a typical antagonist; his charismatic yet dangerous personality makes him a compelling character. Raven’s growth from a naive therapist to someone who confronts her deepest fears add depth to her character arc. 

The novel is filled with unexpected twists and turns. One particularly shocking moment is when Raven discovers Ty’s hidden motives which completely alters the direction of the story.

Feedback 

The middle sections of the book felt slower compared to the intense beginning and end, leading to some loss of momentum. Introducing more dynamic events or subplots in the middle can help maintain a consistent pace and keep readers engaged throughout.

Some secondary characters, such as other patients or staff at the asylum, might not be as well-developed, making them feel more like plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals. Providing more background and depth to these characters can enrich the story and create a more immersive experience.

Jodie King’s writing style is evocative and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the characters’ emotions and dark twisted reality they inhabit. Phrases like, “Ty’s eyes, like black holes, sucked in every ounce of light, leaving Raven shivering in the cold darkness,” showcase her ability to create an immersive reading experience. 

If you’re looking for a dark romance that pushes boundaries and keeps you on the edge of your seat, “Til Def” delivers with unforgettable intensity.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Jodie King is a talented British author who has made a name for herself in the world of dark romance. With a passion for storytelling discovered a few years ago, Jodie has been dedicated to crafting captivating and intense narratives that explore themes of darkness, trauma, and romance. Her ability to create gripping, emotionally charged stories makes her a standout author in the dark romance genre. Her unique of darkness and romance continues to captivate readers and leave them eagerly anticipating her next release. 

Some of her notable works include “Hollow Hellion,” “Into Darkness We Fall,”She is also the author of the “The Beast Duet” and “The Hollow’s Trilogy,” which have garnered a dedicated following. 

Nora Blackwood is a renowned author in the dark romance genre, celebrated for her captivating and intense storytelling. With a keen interest exploring the intricacies of love, trauma, and obsession, Nora weaves compelling narratives that keep readers enthralled from start to finish. Her works often delve deep into the psychological aspects of her characters, creating rich and multilayered stories that resonate on an emotional level. Nora skillfully balances dark themes with moments of vulnerability and tenderness, making her novels both thrilling and heart-wrenching. 

Among her notable books are “Dark Therapy” and “Captive Obsession: Obsession of the Mafia Boss,” both of which have garnered praise for their emotional depth and evocative writing. 

 

Spotlighting New Talents: Everly Claire and Mortala

 

Welcome to this week’s edition of my book blog, where I spotlight two incredibly talented up-and-coming authors whose work has quickly become a personal favorite. Their books are not only brilliantly written but also feature characters you can’t help but fall in love with! What truly sets these authors apart, however, is their kindness and respect towards their and- a quality that is refreshing as it is commendable. 

Every Claire has just released the ARCs for her debut novel “Never Broken,” a gripping dystopian tale that I highly recommend. Mortala, on the other hand, has already made a mark with her dark romance novels”Wicked Obsidian” and “Tangled in Tinsel.” If you enjoy stories that delve into the depths of dark romance, her books are a must-read.

Join me as I dive into their captivating worlds, explore their engaging stories, and celebrate the authors who are redefining the literary landscape. Prepare to be enchanted by their tales and inspired by their craft and their readers. 

Never Broken

Everly Claire

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

https://a.co/d/4Yb8vxC

“Never Broken” by Everly Claire is set in a dystopian world called New America, where slavery still exists. The story follows Louisa, a young woman from a wealthy family who is on the brink of losing everything due to a failed college course. Her father’s latest purchase is a golden haired slave named “Prisoner 77” who is intelligent and not suited for hard labor. 

From their first interaction, there’s an undeniable connection between Louisa and “Prisoner 77”, even though their relationship is forbidden. Louisa is determined to escape the control and expectations while “Prisoner 77” is focused on finding his sister and seeking revenge against those who wronged him. As they navigate their dangerous world, they must confront their feelings for each other and the harsh realities of their society. 

The book is filled with humor, tension and unexpected twists, making it a gripping and emotional read. 

Feedback

 One of the strengths of “Never Broken” is its compelling characters, especially “Prisoner 77.” His humor and sarcasm add depth and relatability to his personality, making his stand out from typical dystopian protagonists. 

The setting of New America is fascinating, but at times, I found myself wanting more context. For instance, the socio-political structure of New America and the history that led to its dystopian state are briefly mentioned but not fully explored. Providing more detailed descriptions about how this society functions, the origins of its laws, and the cultural norms, this would give us a better understanding of Louisa and “Prisoner 77” world. 

This is a book that not only entertains but also resonates on multiple levels. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thought provoking and immersive experience. 

As her first novel, “Never Broken” showcases Everly’s immense talent and leaves her readers eagerly anticipating what she will create next! I cannot wait to read her next book!

Mortala

Wicked Obsidian

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

https://a.co/d/jfNONaA

“Wicked Obsidian” by Mortala is a dark and intense novella set during Halloween. The story follows are Elise, who has been raised to be devout and taught that sin is everywhere. 

She receives an invitation to an exclusive,  “extreme” haunted house on Halloween night, which promises to feed on her deepest fears.

The haunted house is a twisted reflection of the place she grew up in, and at its center is Rico Hades, her foster brother and tormentor. Rico has turned the mansion into a labyrinth of horrors  designed just for her. 

Every room is a trap, every shadow a threat, and no matter how hard she fights, she can’t escape him. The closer he pulls her, the more she realizes she’s not just trapped in the mansion, but trapped in him. The novella delves into themes of sexual obsession, power dynamics, and moral ambiguity.

It’s a gripping and unsettling read, perfect for fans of dark romance. 

Feedback:

Mortala masterfully creates a dark and chilling atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The haunted house setting, combined with Halloween night, adds a layer of suspense and tension that enhances the story’s impact. The vivid descriptions of haunted house’s eerie corridors, sinister rooms, and the oppressive sense of dread make readers feel as if they are right there with Elise, experiencing her fear and anxiety.

The book explores dark and intense themes that might not be suitable for all readers. The content can be disturbing and unsettling. The psychological manipulation and power dynamics between Elise and Rico can be quite intense, potentially making some readers uncomfortable. I think that Mortala does an amazing job warning readers of the books content before they read it.

Tangled in Tinsel

 (Nyx and Mortala)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

https://a.co/d/0qzoAkr

“Tangled in Tinsel” is written by authors Mortala and Nyx, and is a dark and forbidden Christmas novella. The story follows Amelia, who falls into a forbidden romance with Lucien Sinclair, her best friend’s father. Set against the backdrop of a snowy Christmas night, their attraction is intense and undeniable.

Lucien bound by vows he can no longer keep, finds himself tangled in a desire for Amelia that he can’t deny. As secrets unravel and lies deepen, their love becomes a dangerous game that threatens to destroy them both.

The novella explores themes of forbidden love, power dynamics, and the consequences of giving in to forbidden desires.

Feedback:

The forbidden love between Amelia and Lucien adds an intense and compelling layer to the story. The taboo nature of their relationship makes the narrative thrilling and emotionally charged. The tension between Amelia and Lucien is palpable from their first encounter. Their stolen glances and secret meetings create a sense of urgency and passion that keeps readers engaged.

The novella explores themes of forbidden love and power dynamics that might not be suitable for all readers. The content can be unsettling. The taboo nature of Amelia’s relationship with Lucien, her best friend’s father, and the power imbalance may make some readers uncomfortable. The emotional intensify and moral ambiguity can be challenging to navigate. (Mortala and Nyx) do an amazing job at warning and educating readers about the contents and triggers prior to reading this book.

Mortala, an emerging talent in the literary world, has swiftly garnered acclaim for her dark and captivating  romance novels. Despite her brief time on the scene, she has received rave reviews and built a loyal following. Her future works are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike. 

Nyx’s talent and creativity shine through in “Tangled in Tinsel,” making her a noteworthy author to watch in the dark romance genre. 

In conclusion

Everly Claire and Mortala have both made remarkable debuts in the realm of dark fiction.

 Everly Claire “Never Broken” captures readers with its compelling characters, engaging writing style, and thought-provoking themes, making a powerful entry into the dystopian genre. Meanwhile, Mortala has quickly garnered acclaim with her captivating novellas, including “Wicked Obsidian” and “Tangled in Tinsel” co-authored with Nyx. 

Their unique blend of emotional depth, intense atmospheres, and complex characters have earned them great reviews and a dedicated following. As emerging voices in the reading world, Everly Claire and Mortala are authors to watch, promising even more thrilling and immersive storylines. 

Unveiling Secrets and Crimes: A week with Teddie Peacock and James Michels

This week, I stepped our of my usual reading comfort zone and delved into two gripping novels from genres I don't often explore. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed both books and am excited to share my thoughts with you.

"Secret Keepers" by Teddie Peacock

https://a.co/d/djprOHN

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"The truth will NOT set you free. Truth will take everything, everybody you love, stomp you, and leave you with nothing."

"Secret Keepers" is an exciting domestic suspense novel that grabs you from the start.   If you started out like me wondering what "domestic suspense' is. Here you go, "domestic suspense" is a subgenre of thriller fiction that focuses on the psychological tension and trauma in personal relationships, often set in domestic settings. These stories typically revolve around everyday people. 

Peacock incorporates elements of domestic suspense by focusing on the intense and emotional journey of Tessa as she uncovers the truth behind her friend Kelly's mysterious death. Kelly Ryan, was a chaotic and troublesome individual, where each character has their own reasons for wanting Kelly gone. 

I enjoyed Tessa and found her very relatable, and often felt sorry for her throughout the book. I did often wonder why Tessa would try to find out what happened, knowing how awful of a person Kelly was, but Tessa also felt a sense of guilt and responsibility, she wasn't going to be able to move on without understanding what truly happened that night. The plot was captivating, with a complex network of hidden truths and interpersonal connections, I read this book in one day. I have a hard time my suspense books and this one I had to keep reading until the end. 

Positives: Engaging Plot, Character Development, Emotional Depth

Negatives: Complexity of the plot and number of characters felt overwhelming at times. 

I found the ending of the book to be satisfying both unexpected. It ties up many of the loose ends, and provides a resolution to the mystery surround the death of Kelly. 

"The Melody of Shattered Gold" by James Michel

https://a.co/d/7iFBgp3

⭐⭐⭐⭐

"In the world of shattered gold, loyalty is the only currency that matters, and betrayal is the debt that never goes unpaid."

A well-crafted and compelling novel with strong character development and a gripping plot. I would recommend this book to fans of crime fiction and and family sagas. This novel delves into themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and the brutal realities of the Mafia.

Readers are immersed in the intricate world of the Oro family, a formidable mafia dynasty based in State Island. This book is a prequel to "The Ballad of Johnny Carlo."

The plot revolves around Emilio Oro, the aging patriarch, who is struggling to find a worthy successor. His nephew, Louis, steps up as a potential heir, but he mist demonstrate his ruthlessness and leadership abilities. The story is rife with tension as the family navigates threats from both external adversaries and internal betrayals.

Positives: Engaging Plot, Complex Characters, Evocative Writing

Negatives: Predictability, Pacing Issues

The characters, especially Emilio and Louis, are well developed and multi-dimensional, making their struggles and motivations compelling. I found certain plot twists predictable and while it was generally fast paced, there are moments where the story slows down, which might affect the overall momentum.

📕📗📘📙📕📘📗📙📕📗📘📙📕📗📘📙📕📗📘📙📕📗📘📙📕📗📘

Both novels brought something unique to the table and kept me thoroughly entertained. I am glad that I took the plunge into these genres and look forward to exploring more books like these in the future. 

〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰

Personal Note

As an author myself, I find it fascinating how different genres can evoke such powerful emotions and reflections. My own book " A Mothers Journey: A Daughters Grief," explores themes of loss, resilience, and healing. While these themes are different from the suspense and thrills of the novels reviewed here, they share a common thread of delving deep into human emotions and experiences. If you enjoy stories that touch on profound emotional journeys, you might find my book resonates with you as well. 

https://a.co/d/dgsRaXi

Chilling Horror Stories by Nick Roberts

        

 

Chilling Horror Stories

Nick Roberts

Last week, I shared my review of Nick Roberts' "The Exorcist House," and since then, I've finished two more of his gripping novels: "The Exorcist House: Genesis" and "Dead End Tunnel."

My mom and I have been listening to his audiobooks during our car rides to her doctor appointments. She's always been a huge fan of horror novels, especially those by Stephen King, so I thought listening to Nick Roberts would be a great way for us to bond.

It was incredibly difficult to pause the audiobooks every time we had to get out of the car. I made a promise not to listen without her, which was a real challenge! Today, we finished "Dead End Tunnel," and the first thing Mama asked when we got back in the car was, "Well, what is our boy up to now?"

Nick Roberts has a remarkable way with words, drawing you into his world so deeply that you feel like a part of it. I felt a strange sense of loss after finishing his latest book, as if I had just said goodbye to a dear friend. One thing I've learned is to never expect a happy ending with his stories.

Anyway...

The Exorcist House: Genesis

https://a.co/d/fIQUMmY

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and always love hearing about Merle Blatty and his time as an Exorcist. The glimpse we get of his journey is fascinating.

This novel not only features dual points of view but also shifts seamlessly between the past and present. In the past, we see Merle as he begins his career as an Exorcist. His first exorcism seemed too easy; he quickly defeated the demon, but soon realizes the true challenge was yet to come.

In the present day, we follow Daniel and Nora three years after they fled from the Exorcist House. They've tried to move on and put the horrors behind them. Alice, now an adult, has just been settled into her college dorm. Maren, who is now three years old, surprisingly turns out to be sweet and precious, quite unlike the malevolent presence one might have expected from the previous book's ending.

Their seemingly perfect life is thrown into chaos when Daniel's brother, Adam, decides to buy the Exorcist House after hearing Daniel talk about it during a drunken night. Despite Daniel's attempts to deny the tale the next day, Adam isn't convinced and views the house as a "get rich quick" scheme. Little does he know, the house has other plans for him.

In The Exorcist House: Genesis, I found myself wishing for more about Merle, whose life is both fascinating and thrilling. However, I did enjoy the segments focusing on his son, Sam. The book is filled with moments that are absolutely shocking and others that are deeply sad, which is typical of Nick Roberts’ work. When the demons come to play, escaping becomes nearly impossible.

This book was a slaughter house, no one is ever safe in his books!

Dead End Tunnel

https://a.co/d/buPBXRR

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

I absolutely loved this book; it carried a sense of nostalgia, set in the year 1999. Our protagonist, "Mav," is an excited 12-year-old on the cusp of his 13th birthday, celebrating with his two best friends, Max and Blake. The evening's agenda includes pizza, cake, and scary movies.

Mav is the eldest in his family, with twin sisters, Jill and Jenny. Max, in contrast, is an only child with a drunk, deadbeat dad, abandoned by his mother as a baby. Blake lives on the wealthier side of town, and the boys are convinced his dad is an FBI agent.

As the friends gather at Mav’s house, it’s time for presents. Mav receives three walkie-talkies and a brand new red bike. Though thrilled, he feels a bit uneasy since Max, who never gets new bikes, is there. Surprisingly, Max is genuinely happy for Mav and even teases about having the best present for him.

Later that night, after everyone is asleep, Mav and his friends sneak out for Max’s surprise—a trip to the 7/11 to buy cigarettes and beer. Their journey requires biking through a pitch-black, one-lane tunnel. Mav generously lets Max ride his new bike while he takes Max’s old one.

Inside the tunnel, a red sports car suddenly speeds through, forcing the boys to hide in the slats to avoid being hit. The car was supposed to pause and beep before entering but didn't. After it passes, they realize Max is missing. They search the tunnel, but there’s no sign of him or Mav’s bike. Using the walkie-talkies, they manage to reach Max, who says he’s still in the tunnel, it’s dark, and he sees a creature before the signal cuts to static. The boys had no idea that this night and their decisions would change their lives forever.

The story alternates between the past and present from Mav’s point of view, creating a gripping narrative.

I absolutely loved this book. The nostalgic feel of it being set in the '90s reminded me of the movie "IT," even though the stories aren't remotely similar. The past was packed with events, but the present felt a bit lacking. I was hoping for more from the older Mav and his confrontation with the recluse, which didn't quite deliver. Despite that, I still thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself on the edge of my seat the entire time.