Book Reviews (Horror)

Hello Readers!

Apologies for the late post- holiday festivities kept me busy! This week, I’m diving into the chilling world of horror novels. I’ve handpicked a few spine-tingling reads that left a lasting impression and are perfect for an horror enthusiast. Get ready to explore these captivating tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

The Hallow Gaze by T.D. Lawler

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‼️Available on Amazon ‼️

(This is a short story deals with death, grief, and suicide).

The Hollow Gaze was a compelling read that lingered in my thoughts long after I finished it. The story delves into the profound grief experienced by the main character and his wife after losing several close family members in a short period. Their contrasting ways of coping— his wife sinking into depression and him becoming increasingly paranoid— are both poignant and relatable. The narrative’s exploration of loss and fear is deeply affecting, culminating in a sad yet fitting conclusion. This book will resonate with anyone who has faced the heartbreak of losing loved ones. Highly recommended for it’s emotional depth and realistic portrayal of grief.

WhiteOut by Gracie Williams

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‼️Available on Amazon‼️

(After being blindsided with a divorce, Ivy plans a Christmas getaway. As the host of a popular murder podcast, she throws herself into work as a distraction. Intrigued by the haunting Christmas legend, she decided to investigate the town of Hemlock Hollow and its connection to a string of missing women).

Whiteout was a thrilling rollercoaster of a novel that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The story is packed with unexpected twists and turns that make it an exhilarating read. At first, I thought Kris, the MMC would be a typical boring millionaire who ends up being the hero. However, I was completely wrong! Kris is an unhinged psychopath, and his unpredictable nature made the story even more captivating. The author does an excellent job of developing Kris’s character, making him both terrifying and fascinating.

The ending was a complete shocker, something I did not see coming at all. It left me reeling and thinking about it long after I finished reading it.

If you’re looking for a book that will keep you guessing, put you into a state of shock and leave you speechless, this book is a must read!

When The Steps Run Red

By Izzy Ravas



⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‼️ Available on Amazon‼️

( Welcome to Alden! A new town to call home. One that harbors a bloody secret. Will you survive or will you be another echo that haunts the halls? This is NOT a romance, not even a dark romance. This book contains content that may be triggering to some readers).

Holy Snap-Crackle- Pop! What did I just read? Check those trigger warnings before diving in. I absolutely loved it! This book does what books should do— make me feel like I was there.

I was scared, disgusted, and maybe slightly traumatized. I’ve been craving a good horror-tica book and this one takes the cake! There is NO happy ever after!

November Part 2 ARCS

November ARC Reads Part 2

I had the pleasure of being selected to read these three amazing books. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, and receiving these ARCs in no way influenced how I rated them.

Sugar and Spice, Naughty And Nice: 

Portland Romance Writers' Winter Anthology

4/5 Stars

AVAILABLE NOW

I was introduced to this anthology by the incredible Jennifer Strand, and I’m giving it four stars, largely thanks to her outstanding story and a few other gems within the collection. Jennifer Strand’s contribution, Snowbound Hearts, was an absolute delight and stands out as a highlight. Snowbound Hearts follows the charming tale of Dex and Indie. Dex is a soft-hearted individual who struggles to separate his golden heart from his professional life, while Indie, a lawyer, is emotionally drained from her demanding career. This story embodies the classic sunshine/grumpy trope.

The two characters find themselves unexpectedly snowed in together after a mix-up at a cabin, leading to a heartwarming and fun-filled adventure. The dynamics between Dex and Indie are incredibly engaging, and the snowed-in scenario adds a delightful twist to their budding romance. I was immediately drawn to this story due to its relatable characters and the cozy, low-stakes holiday setting. The chemistry between Dex and Indie is palpable, making their journey from strangers to something more deeply satisfying. 

I truly hope Jennifer Strand follows up with a full-length novel about these characters, as their story deserves to be explored further.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the stories Christmas with the Kings, which had tons of spice, and Santa's Naughty Girl, which will definitely make you look at Santa a little differently. Both tales added unique flavors to the anthology, making the overall reading experience even more enjoyable.

However, not all the stories in the anthology hit the mark. Some seem to rely on knowledge from previous books, making the plotlines confusing and leaving many questions unanswered. While this may be a treat for returning readers, it can be a bit frustrating for new ones like myself. Overall, the anthology has its highs and lows, but Jennifer Strand’s story alone makes it worth picking up. If you’re a fan of her work, you’ll find this collection a worthwhile addition to your reading list.

Lodged by Liss Montoya

5/5 STARS

AVAILABLE NOW

Lodged is a truly unique and compelling read. From the get-go, the intriguing blend of age gap and small-town romance tropes drew me in. The storyline revolves around Ruin, who loses her memory and cannot recall her deep love for Gio. 

Bound by secrecy, Gio is unable to disclose their shared past to her. 

This novel brilliantly captures the heart-wrenching agony of yearning for someone who doesn’t remember you, and the poignant struggle of Gio as he endeavors to rekindle Ruin's memories of their love. Some parts reminded me of "The Vow".

Gio's character is incredibly well-crafted; his strength, patience, and unwavering devotion made me fall in love with him instantly. Montoya’s writing deftly explores the themes of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of connection, making this a thoroughly immersive experience.

I highly recommend Lodged to anyone looking for a deeply emotional and engaging romance. It's a journey that stays with you long after the final page is turned.

A Wish on Willow Way by Caroline Laine

3.5/5 STARS

AVAILABLE November 21st

A wish on Willow Way is a cute, little cozy holiday read. Set in a LGBTQ+ world filled with fae politics and a sprinkle of holiday magic, this book is a real treat.

The story follows Sienna Rivers, the half-human daughter of The Fairy Godmother. She's a relatable character dealing with unwanted family obligations and rekindling old feelings for Amaias, her bodyguard. Their romance blooms amidst the Yule festivities in Haven’s Hill, as Sienna tries to dodge an arranged marriage and confront her true feelings.

The plot is very straightforward but the pacing was off, and some repetitiveness that slowed down the pacing and became somewhat boring and hard to read at times. The spice in the book comes towards the end, and it’s well-written and doesn't overtake the overall story.

A Wish on Willow Way is a charming holiday read with light romance, with a touch of spice.

The Soulbinding Chronicles by EJ Lindell (Fantasy)

The Soulbinding Chronicles by EJ Lindell

I had the privilege of being selected as an ARC reader for the talented EJ Lindell's "Soulbinding Chronicles." The series has been absolutely amazing and I can't wait for the release of Book 5!

Book 1: Through Mists of Time

EJ Lindell's "Through Mist of Time" is an enchanting start to the Soulbinding Chronicles. The story follows Annika, a small town-girl from Manitoba, who uncovers her true identity during a trip to Scotland. A mysterious book transports her to the magical land of Tir Siorghlas, where she rediscovers a powerful past life and an enduring love. 

As Annika navigates her newfound heritage, she faces a dark force threatening everything she loves. Wit vivid world- building and compelling characters, this tale of self-discovery, love, and destiny is a must-read for fantasy and romance enthusiasts. 

" A single touch from a handsome stranger ignites a connection that transcends time, whispering of love lost and a bond that must be rekindled."

Book 2: Through Light and Whispers. 

The story follows Elara, who escapes from Lord Blackwood's dungeon with her childhood love, Silvan. As she battles whispers of vengeance, Elara explores her magical connection with Silvan and the possibility of love. 

This book beautifully blends elements of magic, romance, and destiny, making it a captivating read for fans of fantasy and love stories. Lindell's vivid world-building and compelling character development keeps readers engaged and invested in Elara's journey. 

"Through Light and Whispers is filled with unexpected twists and moments of suspense. One of the most gripping twists is when Elara, who is help captive by Lord Blackwell, discovers a shocking truth about her past that changes everything she thought she knew. 

Book 3: Through Dusk and Fates

The third installment of EJ Lindell's Soulbinding Chronicles continues the epic journey in the land of Tir Siorghlas. the peace of Tir Siorghlas is disrupted by an ancient darkness. A hidden prophecy reveals that a dragon and a heart bond are crucial to defeating this threat, but this revelation comes at a high cost, straining the love between Elara and Silvan. 

This book also follows Sarya, who struggles with new responsibilities and emotional scars of past betrayals, wile Carwyn, who has long loved Sarya, finally sees a chance for happiness with her and Puck. However, a chilling truth threatens to plunge him into darkness. 

Lindell masterfully crafts complex characters whose personal struggles and relationships deeply resonated with me. 

Book 4: Through Sorrow and Embers

This book continues the enthralling saga if Tir Siorghlas with a blend of action, deep emotional struggles and intricate character development. This installment brings Elara's journey to new heights, filled with deep sorrow and unwavering hope. 

Carwyn is faced with the daunting challenge of protecting his love ones while grappling with the dark legacy of his father's blood pact. 

We are also introduced to new characters, Hagen and Perdita, who have an instant dislike to each other that evolves into a compelling relationship with full of banter. 

Lindell's writing shines with complex themes of love, sacrifice and destiny. This book's pacing kept me on the edge of my seat and was a satisfying continuation, filled with romance and suspense. 

This series includes some content that readers might find intense or triggering. 

- Violence and Battle Scenes

- Captivity and Torture

- Emotional Trauma

- Romantic and Sexual Content. 

These elements contribute to the depth and intensity of the story.

November ARCS Week 1

 Dark Love (Sweet Atonement) by Rora Noir

As a long time fan of this Author, I was thrilled to dive into this book, and it exceeded my expectations. I devoured all 600 pages in a single day! The main characters, Vex and Dahlia, are mesmerizing- Vex is morally grey and a dangerously intelligent smooth- talker, while Dahlia is his complete opposite. Their dynamic is electric and keeps you hooked. '

The book masterfully unravels the mysterious backgrounds of the characters, making it impossible to put it down. This story squarely falls into the dark romance category, with themes such as trafficking and kidnapping, so be sure to check your trigger warnings before diving in. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a thrilling and intense read. 

House of Blight (The Threadmender Chronicles, #1) by Maxym M. Martineau

I was initially drawn to this book by it's captivating cover, and it did not disappoint! This novel is the epitome of Gothic Romantasy! This story revolves around our FMC, Edina, a Threadmender who has the rare ability to heal others but at the cost of her own life. Each healing takes a toll on her, and after being discovered by Orin, the head of a powerful immortal family, she is forced into a deal with him.

This book is filled with twists and turns, eerie and sometimes creepy moments that kept me on the edge of my seat. The descriptions are so vivid, especially the scenes involving "the blight", that I sometimes found myself cringing at how gross it was. 

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good Gothic Romantasy. I would definitely buy this book and look forward to reading more from this talented author!

October ARCs : Dark Romance

 

‼️Always check your trigger warnings going into a lot of books that I post. Most Dark Romances are Morally Gray or Black men. They have no redeemable qualities, they are who they are and they’re not changing for anyone. ‼️

Sinful Shadows by Jade Wilkes

Sinful Shadows by Jade Wilkes is a quick, fast-paced read that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The story centers around Hilly, a woman with a past of substance abuse who's been sober for some time, and Damon, the intriguing son of her mother’s new boyfriend, Richard. Hilly’s anticipation of Damon being closed off and mysterious is quickly proven wrong. The dynamic between them is filled with teasing and playful tension, making their interactions both entertaining and compelling.

One particularly memorable scene involves a hilarious family outing to a pumpkin patch, where everyone ends up slipping and falling in the mud. This light-hearted moment adds a touch of humor to the story.

As the plot unfolds, we learn that Richard owns a dating app that Hilly uses, and Damon has been “stalking” her by hacking her account for months. The mutual attraction between Hilly and Damon is palpable, but while Hilly considers her past to be dark, it’s nothing compared to Damon’s. His obsession with Hilly makes him dangerous to those around him. The climax at the Wickedly Halloween party is intense, as they finally give in to their desires.

Jade Wilkes' writing is vivid, allowing readers to picture every scene clearly. The fast-paced narrative doesn’t feel rushed, making it an enjoyable read. Sinful Shadows is a highly recommended book for those looking for a thrilling and steamy romance.

https://a.co/d/i1y1peq

Waters Edge by Ash Redd 

I couldn't contain my excitement when I received Water’s Edge by Ash Redd for review. This dark paranormal romance, infused with Appalachian folklore, swept me off my feet and kept me hooked till the very last page. The narrative truly came alive in my head, partly because I read parts of it in the voice of that eerie TikTok lady who warns you about venturing outside at night.

Our main character, Mattie, is quite the unconventional protagonist—a serial unaliver with an obsession with a pond near her home, where she sinks her victims. The story takes a thrilling turn when she catches the attention of Ripp, a dark, nightmare-inducing being who feeds on human souls. Ripp’s unprecedented attraction to Mattie leads him to shapeshift into a human form to get closer to her.

Their dynamic is electrifying. Mattie, initially annoyed by Ripp's arrogant attitude, decides she’s going to unalive him, making for some tense and gripping interactions. The ambiguity of Ripp’s intentions—whether he’s attracted to her or simply wants to devour her—adds an extra layer of intrigue. Their constant jockeying for the upper hand kept me on the edge of my seat, and I loved seeing them outmaneuver each other.

Overall, this was a fantastic read that I devoured in a day. Ash Redd has crafted a vivid, atmospheric tale that combines romance and horror in a truly unique way. Highly recommended for fans of dark, twisted love stories with a touch of folklore.

This book releases on November 11th, I will update with the link when available!

October ARC Reviews: DARK

 Erotic Horror Book Reviews

Hollow Nights by AB. Cynthe

Before diving into this book, please remember that it is very dark with several trigger warnings. “Hollow Nights” by AB Cynthe is NOT a dark romance; it is Erotic Horror, and the two are completely different. This gripping tale follows Libra, who suffers from sleep paralysis and is tormented by a demon every night. Little does she know, her Sleep Demon, Axelle, is real and bound to her, following her everywhere. When Axelle murders a man to protect his “flesh bag,” the consequences allow Libra to see him. Initially, Libra cannot stand Axelle and wants him to go away, but she slowly finds herself lusting after him. This book is a rollercoaster of dark desires and twisted fates that will leave you breathless.

I was genuinely impressed with this book. As the second novel I’ve ventured into within this genre, it kept me continuously guessing, blushing, and shaking my head. I’m definitely grabbing the signed book and art from the Authors website.

https://a.co/d/960et1n

Eternity of Horror by Nowhere Eternity

Recently finished “Eternity of Horror” and my first thought was WHAT DID I READ!! This book made me laugh but also turned my stomach. While it was an interesting read, I know this is not a genre that I will read again. The authors choice to use a pseudonym makes perfect sense, given the depravity of certain themes. Even seasoned readers of EH (Erotic Horror) will find themselves cringing.

This story follows two dark souls who discover a mutual attraction. Lillith the FMC, is truely disgusting in the way that she cares for the male corpses in the morgue. Osiris, is a serial killer who murders his victims in the most brutal ways.

Seriously, read the trigger warnings before diving into this book.

https://a.co/d/avWDbkK

Summoned by Shae Ruby

I recently received an ARC of “Summoned” by Shae Ruby. Halloween night is usually filled with fun, but for Jeremiah and his friends, it becomes a nightmare when they make the fatal mistake of playing with an Ouija board and forgetting to say goodbye. One by one, they are picked off by a vengeful demon. Jeremiah finds solace in his roommate Sam, gradually realizing his bisexuality and his attraction to a man. However, he has no idea that Sam isn’t who he seems to be.

“Summoned” was my second MM romance, and it was a good read. The paranormal elements added a great twist, and the scenes weren’t too gory, keeping the focus on the story. The ending was satisfying in an unconventional HEA. 

https://a.co/d/ah91S9d

Book Blog Update

It’s been awhile since I posted a book review. Unfortunately, we received devastating news on Monday and I just haven’t had the heart.

I happily received several ARCs for the month of October. When I went to write this, I had the intention of doing them all but quickly had to backtrack. Due to some of these being extremely graphic, I will be separating them so that they’re not all grouped in together.

This way I can review without judgment and that when you are reading these you know which one are safe to read and which are not.

I appreciate all my viewers and those that support my book blog.