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Bitter & Sick #1
Twelve of Roses
An anti-love story: Prequel
His love is not patient.
His love is not kind.
His love is sick and obsessive, just like mine.
I never admitted how much I liked the vile things he did—not when escaping him was the only way for me to live.
Leaving destroyed both of us.
Now, a ghost from my past has begun reaching out from beyond the grave, creating a trail of corpses that threaten to reveal who and what I really am.
All I have to do to stop it is uphold my end of a broken promise.
See, a love like ours fed a bittersweet infatuation that ensured together we’d rot, but the day I left there was barely one body instead of two.
And someone wants me to keep my word.
Till death, do we never part.
*12OR Volume 1 prequel. Please check inside for author note.*
His love is not patient.
His love is not kind.
His love is sick and obsessive, just like mine.
I never admitted how much I liked the vile things he did—not when escaping him was the only way for me to live.
Leaving destroyed both of us.
Now, a ghost from my past has begun reaching out from beyond the grave, creating a trail of corpses that threaten to reveal who and what I really am.
All I have to do to stop it is uphold my end of a broken promise.
See, a love like ours fed a bittersweet infatuation that ensured together we’d rot, but the day I left there was barely one body instead of two.
And someone wants me to keep my word.
Till death, do we never part.
*12OR Volume 1 prequel. Please check inside for author note.*
112 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2023
62 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Bennett
111 books2,667 followersLover of all things pǝʇsıʍʇ & unusual.
I write unconventional 'romance' with strong elements of horror.
Find all my links here!
linktr.ee/AuthornatB
I write unconventional 'romance' with strong elements of horror.
Find all my links here!
linktr.ee/AuthornatB
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
July 21, 2021
2 Stars
This was...okay. Decently dark and twisted, although the ending left something to be desired. I've read darker stuff I enjoyed more, so I'm not sure I would recommend this.
This was...okay. Decently dark and twisted, although the ending left something to be desired. I've read darker stuff I enjoyed more, so I'm not sure I would recommend this.
February 15, 2023
3.5 stars. Sadly I really wasn't a fan of this book, I just found this to be messy and it didn't give me much depth into the characters which I was hoping for due to the set up of the chapters (before him & after him) so because of this and the length I didn't connect with them or the storyline.
March 9, 2021
You know I love natalie books and this one idk I'm still mixed because I'm still sorta confused I just been mindfucked?? Or maybe because its like 1 am and I'm all out of it?? Maybe I need to reread? Who knows lol also this is not your typical "love " story isn't really love lol more like manipulate 🤣🤣
But Con is a man with many many many talents and personalities that you dont even know about 🤣🤣 he's a catfish and well a serial killer..
Oh mama I'm in love with a criminallllll because yeah and hes obessed with finding his rose.. and he finds his rose in roselynn who has some fucked up urges herself.. the cat mouse game is coming to a end and man... and well you learn some secerts.
We kinda leave this story as a open ending.
Low angst, Slight secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶
Prologue
Push away from both
Anal sex/play
Violence
Dub-con
Public exhibitionism
Humiliation
Period sex
Abuse physical and mental
HNF
But Con is a man with many many many talents and personalities that you dont even know about 🤣🤣 he's a catfish and well a serial killer..
Oh mama I'm in love with a criminallllll because yeah and hes obessed with finding his rose.. and he finds his rose in roselynn who has some fucked up urges herself.. the cat mouse game is coming to a end and man... and well you learn some secerts.
We kinda leave this story as a open ending.
Low angst, Slight secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶
Prologue
Push away from both
Anal sex/play
Violence
Dub-con
Public exhibitionism
Humiliation
Period sex
Abuse physical and mental
HNF
December 24, 2021
So, the pacing could be better. The dual POVs with dual timeline is a little bit confusing.
The obsession is right up my alley. The murders? Well, I need it. Don't ask.
Though there is this one scene with period blood that I can live peacefully without. Yeesh, not everything should turn into a shock factor.
The obsession is right up my alley. The murders? Well, I need it. Don't ask.
Though there is this one scene with period blood that I can live peacefully without. Yeesh, not everything should turn into a shock factor.
November 28, 2023
"You're the sole reason for my insanity.
You're my one and only madness.
IT's you, Rosie.
It always comes back to you."
Ok, this to watch as a movie I would definitely not have a stomach.
I am not one of those who likes to watch horror, torture, blood, etc ... but reading that in a book is something completely different.
And the way NB does it is simply amazing!
This is not a love story ... maybe in a weird way known only to them, but no, it's definitely not love and it's not a love story.
An obsession, but a real deep uncontrollable one, towards a special red-haired woman. Killing gives him the pleasure and excitement he craves from her.
As much as she tries to resist him and as much as she runs away from him, she actually wants to be caught in some way ... drawn into this psychotic situation, she just can't resist him even though she knows how sick and abnormal it is.
-"Everyone picks their poison - a sick little addiction you know is detrimental to your health, but you just can't help yourself. You blatantly don't give a damn.
Some people liked cake.
I liked serial killers."
I think that on several occasions I stopped breathing from the anticipation of what and how the situation will continue.
With an open ending, we can only imagine how their lives continue.
But this is definitely not a book for everyone.
For those who love NB, this is a book that I recommend reading. The woman knows what she is writing.
For those who haven’t read NB yet, this book is a dark, deadly, violent, bloody place you have to approach with caution. Good luck!
You're my one and only madness.
IT's you, Rosie.
It always comes back to you."
Ok, this to watch as a movie I would definitely not have a stomach.
I am not one of those who likes to watch horror, torture, blood, etc ... but reading that in a book is something completely different.
And the way NB does it is simply amazing!
This is not a love story ... maybe in a weird way known only to them, but no, it's definitely not love and it's not a love story.
An obsession, but a real deep uncontrollable one, towards a special red-haired woman. Killing gives him the pleasure and excitement he craves from her.
As much as she tries to resist him and as much as she runs away from him, she actually wants to be caught in some way ... drawn into this psychotic situation, she just can't resist him even though she knows how sick and abnormal it is.
-"Everyone picks their poison - a sick little addiction you know is detrimental to your health, but you just can't help yourself. You blatantly don't give a damn.
Some people liked cake.
I liked serial killers."
I think that on several occasions I stopped breathing from the anticipation of what and how the situation will continue.
With an open ending, we can only imagine how their lives continue.
But this is definitely not a book for everyone.
For those who love NB, this is a book that I recommend reading. The woman knows what she is writing.
For those who haven’t read NB yet, this book is a dark, deadly, violent, bloody place you have to approach with caution. Good luck!
Read
February 11, 2023I'm just leaving this note for myself.
I read the original version and thought since it changed I'll read this one. I dnf it since I hate ow/om stuff and it had this.
So that's my reason I couldn't finish the rest. Which is sad cuz I love natalie books. But also I meh rereading books that been already published and changed since I have version one in paperback.
I read the original version and thought since it changed I'll read this one. I dnf it since I hate ow/om stuff and it had this.
So that's my reason I couldn't finish the rest. Which is sad cuz I love natalie books. But also I meh rereading books that been already published and changed since I have version one in paperback.
December 10, 2022
bye. this was a dark asf horror…this has every trigger warning and is the most fucked up book i’ve ever read.
I finished it cause i was hoping for some sort of ok ending but…spoiler alert…there really wasn’t
I will say I could see this being a super niche horror film minus some extra gross shit
THE Chaos of this book and the mystery…don’t judge my high rating
3/5⭐️
I finished it cause i was hoping for some sort of ok ending but…spoiler alert…there really wasn’t
I will say I could see this being a super niche horror film minus some extra gross shit
THE Chaos of this book and the mystery…don’t judge my high rating
3/5⭐️
February 11, 2023
***3,5-3,75 "An obsession!!!" stars***
"Constantine was a conundrum of deceptively charming darkness. I'd unwittingly become his center."
This was not a love story!!!
It was a story full of madness and obsession and as of any other book that Natalie Bennett has gifted us with, it was, in a very crazy and twisted level, addictive!!!
Honestly, this book was all over the place... It was moving between past and present and even though it was giving us some glimpses of what was really happening, it was also bringing us more questions!!! Questions that need to be answered really soon, cause I am dying here!!!
The only sure thing is that this story is not for the fade of heart!!! And it is not for everybody!!!
"Obsession was so fucking hard to cure."
In the past, Rose was a girl with a bad crush to the boy across the street... A boy older than her who never spared a single look her way...
But very soon, she will be surprised when this said boy is taking an interest in her in a very possessive way... But Rose is happy cause she is finally with the one she wants...
But what secrets Constantine is hiding???
"I feared I would give him everything. A relationship with him was going to be like walking a labyrinth without any light."
In the present, Rose is leading a different life... She is on the run and she is always watching behind her back.... She is trying to get away from the one person that she had loved and betrayed... And even though, he is gone, she can not stop feeling his presence everywhere and feel sorry for herself...
After, so much time, some remblance of peace is gracing her life, but very soon, everything are starting to change around her...
"He was always in my head, refusing to vacate my heart no matter how hard I tried to evict him."
This prequel was quick and frustrating, but honestly, I can not wait for the main part to come into my hands and to finally understand what it actually happens here!!!
As this is not my first or tenth rodeo with Mrs. Bennett, I know that we are about to take a sinister and wild ride to the other side and I am here of it!!!
This couple intrigued me very much and I need to learn everything about them and the reasons behind their actions!!!
Rose and Constantine's story was dark and twisted, but obsessively addicted and I just need more!!!
"Some might say I was running from the past because I didn't want to face it, but nothing could be further from the truth.
I had no reason to run. I'd survived it and sometimes, surviving is the worst part."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"Constantine was a conundrum of deceptively charming darkness. I'd unwittingly become his center."
This was not a love story!!!
It was a story full of madness and obsession and as of any other book that Natalie Bennett has gifted us with, it was, in a very crazy and twisted level, addictive!!!
Honestly, this book was all over the place... It was moving between past and present and even though it was giving us some glimpses of what was really happening, it was also bringing us more questions!!! Questions that need to be answered really soon, cause I am dying here!!!
The only sure thing is that this story is not for the fade of heart!!! And it is not for everybody!!!
"Obsession was so fucking hard to cure."
In the past, Rose was a girl with a bad crush to the boy across the street... A boy older than her who never spared a single look her way...
But very soon, she will be surprised when this said boy is taking an interest in her in a very possessive way... But Rose is happy cause she is finally with the one she wants...
But what secrets Constantine is hiding???
"I feared I would give him everything. A relationship with him was going to be like walking a labyrinth without any light."
In the present, Rose is leading a different life... She is on the run and she is always watching behind her back.... She is trying to get away from the one person that she had loved and betrayed... And even though, he is gone, she can not stop feeling his presence everywhere and feel sorry for herself...
After, so much time, some remblance of peace is gracing her life, but very soon, everything are starting to change around her...
"He was always in my head, refusing to vacate my heart no matter how hard I tried to evict him."
This prequel was quick and frustrating, but honestly, I can not wait for the main part to come into my hands and to finally understand what it actually happens here!!!
As this is not my first or tenth rodeo with Mrs. Bennett, I know that we are about to take a sinister and wild ride to the other side and I am here of it!!!
This couple intrigued me very much and I need to learn everything about them and the reasons behind their actions!!!
Rose and Constantine's story was dark and twisted, but obsessively addicted and I just need more!!!
"Some might say I was running from the past because I didn't want to face it, but nothing could be further from the truth.
I had no reason to run. I'd survived it and sometimes, surviving is the worst part."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
March 23, 2021
Twelve of Roses is an update of the Rose De Muerte- re-edited, expanded, and with a fabulous new cover. This was one of the few Natalie Bennett stories I’ve not read- but I’m familiar with her work and knew it would be as dark and twisted as I’ve come to expect. As always, take caution of trigger warnings when you enter a Natalie Bennett word- this is not sweet romance, or at times romance at all- it’s twisted, dark, depraved, and psychologically unsettling. Here we have a serial killer story between Roselynn, our heroine who has had some hard times, and Con, our ever evolving, twisted mastermind psycho we’ve come to adore from Natalie.
Narratively Natalie plays with us- a clever mimic to the games Con is playing. We get the story told in pieces between present and past- working towards quite a jaw dropping ending. You’ll have some unanswered questions- Natalie never gives us the full picture, her books almost feel like vignettes at times, and it makes them even more complicated and intense. I wish we did know more about some of the past and future elements of their story- Natalie leaves a lot up for us to assume or surmise- and my mind is running wild. Don’t expect all the answers- but expect a dark and wild thrill ride, one only the likes of Natalie Bennett could produce.
Narratively Natalie plays with us- a clever mimic to the games Con is playing. We get the story told in pieces between present and past- working towards quite a jaw dropping ending. You’ll have some unanswered questions- Natalie never gives us the full picture, her books almost feel like vignettes at times, and it makes them even more complicated and intense. I wish we did know more about some of the past and future elements of their story- Natalie leaves a lot up for us to assume or surmise- and my mind is running wild. Don’t expect all the answers- but expect a dark and wild thrill ride, one only the likes of Natalie Bennett could produce.
February 10, 2023
Original review:
it’s one big mind fuck, and I’m reeling. Like I’m riding this psycho high right now.
There are so many unanswered questions, you only get bits of their past, there are thing I wish the author would have expanded more on, that I’m sure I’ll be frustrated about in days to come. But I haven’t found a story that made me feel this way, in a long time… and for that I’m giving it 5 stars. This is an open ended story, it does just suddenly stop. I received the story in beyond the pages, and I do hope the author someday gives us a continuation, even if it’s told by someone close to them… because I need answers!
Ps. A lot of triggers so check the warnings if possible. This is definitely not for Everyone. Feel free to message me if you have any questions about anything specific.
Updated review for prequel:
Excuse me while I freak out over this prequel a bit! So I originally read this story when it was released in the beyond the pages book box. And I was obsessed with it! I couldn’t put it down. The prequel did the same. I’m obsessed with these characters, and their toxicity for each other. As the author has stated this isn’t a light and fluffy read. This at times may not even be considered a romance. But it’s captivating and sucks you in… it’s definitely in the horror romance genre…
If you read the previous story like I have, you will want to read this. Thing’s definitely have changed, and I believe for the better. The added moments has created more depth to the story, more understanding to their relationship. Yes I still have a million questions but I’m excited to see what happens next.
If you have triggers I’d stay away from this one, or at least check the triggers, but if you are like me and have a spot in your heart for the depraved and sometimes gruesome this is the perfect prequel for you. I cannot wait to see what happens for these characters. I’m amazed!
it’s one big mind fuck, and I’m reeling. Like I’m riding this psycho high right now.
There are so many unanswered questions, you only get bits of their past, there are thing I wish the author would have expanded more on, that I’m sure I’ll be frustrated about in days to come. But I haven’t found a story that made me feel this way, in a long time… and for that I’m giving it 5 stars. This is an open ended story, it does just suddenly stop. I received the story in beyond the pages, and I do hope the author someday gives us a continuation, even if it’s told by someone close to them… because I need answers!
Ps. A lot of triggers so check the warnings if possible. This is definitely not for Everyone. Feel free to message me if you have any questions about anything specific.
Updated review for prequel:
Excuse me while I freak out over this prequel a bit! So I originally read this story when it was released in the beyond the pages book box. And I was obsessed with it! I couldn’t put it down. The prequel did the same. I’m obsessed with these characters, and their toxicity for each other. As the author has stated this isn’t a light and fluffy read. This at times may not even be considered a romance. But it’s captivating and sucks you in… it’s definitely in the horror romance genre…
If you read the previous story like I have, you will want to read this. Thing’s definitely have changed, and I believe for the better. The added moments has created more depth to the story, more understanding to their relationship. Yes I still have a million questions but I’m excited to see what happens next.
If you have triggers I’d stay away from this one, or at least check the triggers, but if you are like me and have a spot in your heart for the depraved and sometimes gruesome this is the perfect prequel for you. I cannot wait to see what happens for these characters. I’m amazed!
February 12, 2023
Before:
Twelve of Roses, formerly known as Rose De Muerte and was first published in 2017. I reread this and fell in love with it all over again like i did the first time around. I'm so glad I did. I've been the biggest fan of Natalie's since I discovered in August 2017, and from then on, I knew I needed to read every single book by her. Heck, i wish i could read her grocery list. I've seen her grow as an author and also see how big her fan base got. I recommend her on a daily basis.
As I reread this, i nose dived into the novel and felt a part of the story I felt as I was Rose. And i fell for the mysterious and killer Con, Max, and at the end of the book Ryan. A man of many identities. It still kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat the whole time i was rereading. And I loved the added chapter at the end. I was dying for it. I'm dying for this book to be longer. I can read these two all day, and it'll never get it old.
Also, the editing and book cover were lovely and much needed. It just drew you in. I can't wait to read more books from her.
Now:
So this is my third time reading this book. And the third time, I loved it. Usually, i dont read novels more than two times. But natalie bennett is an exception. And im super excited that she's writing more about Con and Rose. They are one of my favorite characters that she wrote. This was dark and disturbing, and i couldn't put it down. I recommend anything she's written, but this one is one of my top books to do so. Beweare this isn't a romance book. It's a romantic horror. There is nothing. Nothing happy about this book. Im glad she is writing more. Can't wait to read the next part because she got me all obsessed and in a dark killer mode. Is it bad that i want to be Rose? But please pick up this book and read it. i dont want to give away to much because this book was fire 🔥
Twelve of Roses, formerly known as Rose De Muerte and was first published in 2017. I reread this and fell in love with it all over again like i did the first time around. I'm so glad I did. I've been the biggest fan of Natalie's since I discovered in August 2017, and from then on, I knew I needed to read every single book by her. Heck, i wish i could read her grocery list. I've seen her grow as an author and also see how big her fan base got. I recommend her on a daily basis.
As I reread this, i nose dived into the novel and felt a part of the story I felt as I was Rose. And i fell for the mysterious and killer Con, Max, and at the end of the book Ryan. A man of many identities. It still kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat the whole time i was rereading. And I loved the added chapter at the end. I was dying for it. I'm dying for this book to be longer. I can read these two all day, and it'll never get it old.
Also, the editing and book cover were lovely and much needed. It just drew you in. I can't wait to read more books from her.
Now:
So this is my third time reading this book. And the third time, I loved it. Usually, i dont read novels more than two times. But natalie bennett is an exception. And im super excited that she's writing more about Con and Rose. They are one of my favorite characters that she wrote. This was dark and disturbing, and i couldn't put it down. I recommend anything she's written, but this one is one of my top books to do so. Beweare this isn't a romance book. It's a romantic horror. There is nothing. Nothing happy about this book. Im glad she is writing more. Can't wait to read the next part because she got me all obsessed and in a dark killer mode. Is it bad that i want to be Rose? But please pick up this book and read it. i dont want to give away to much because this book was fire 🔥
February 12, 2023
~𝑻𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒅𝒐 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕~
This suave chameleon is hungry, his juicy prey has been tempting him for some time, the time has come for him to pounce. Nothing and especially nobody will stand in his way, and those who do will pay a dreary price… the beats will devour his bait claiming her with teeth, claws and … blood … plenty of blood shed…
It’s known among my friends how attracted I am to non conventional anti heroes. In here I found meat to deliciously sink my teeth into. Some actions may seem questionable to most but they satisfied my deviant side.
Constantine won’t provide a warm cover blanketing you in a cocoon of safety, he will burn you, incinerating your walls, leaving you a puddle in his ashes. I love how Rose goes for what she wants and isn’t shy about her desires, without becoming whiney or acting spoiled. She catches on pretty fast, never failing or wavering, a true worthy companion for her out of the box partner.
This prequel allows a glimpse of hell promising a full blown fire to come, Natalie’s brutal unapologetic writing gave me a taste of forbidden and now I crave more.
⚠️𝐓𝐖: you may gather from my words above this isn’t a sweet a journey, I strongly recommend checking the author’s warning before diving in. Especially if you’re sensitive to some issues. I would also beg you to take into consideration that what goes on here may not make much sense or even be justified, and I would normally perceive it as lacking, yet the writing, setting, general atmosphere and vibe won me over; enjoying something I normally wouldn’t is the ultimate addiction for my demanding reader soul. Hence my utmost involvement.
This suave chameleon is hungry, his juicy prey has been tempting him for some time, the time has come for him to pounce. Nothing and especially nobody will stand in his way, and those who do will pay a dreary price… the beats will devour his bait claiming her with teeth, claws and … blood … plenty of blood shed…
It’s known among my friends how attracted I am to non conventional anti heroes. In here I found meat to deliciously sink my teeth into. Some actions may seem questionable to most but they satisfied my deviant side.
Constantine won’t provide a warm cover blanketing you in a cocoon of safety, he will burn you, incinerating your walls, leaving you a puddle in his ashes. I love how Rose goes for what she wants and isn’t shy about her desires, without becoming whiney or acting spoiled. She catches on pretty fast, never failing or wavering, a true worthy companion for her out of the box partner.
This prequel allows a glimpse of hell promising a full blown fire to come, Natalie’s brutal unapologetic writing gave me a taste of forbidden and now I crave more.
⚠️𝐓𝐖: you may gather from my words above this isn’t a sweet a journey, I strongly recommend checking the author’s warning before diving in. Especially if you’re sensitive to some issues. I would also beg you to take into consideration that what goes on here may not make much sense or even be justified, and I would normally perceive it as lacking, yet the writing, setting, general atmosphere and vibe won me over; enjoying something I normally wouldn’t is the ultimate addiction for my demanding reader soul. Hence my utmost involvement.
February 10, 2023
Constantine and Rose. They are back! We get this quick novella sized the story about how they met, and we also get a few chapters in present tense where we find Rose is alone and on the run. Something happened between her and Constantine and she thinks that he’s dead. Of course we know that he’s not that easy to get rid of though…
I can’t wait to see more of Constantine and his family. They clearly have some interesting beliefs and Rose has somehow always was meant to be has. I don’t know if her grandfather sold her or what, but I’m dying to know the backstory of Constantine, his parents, and his siblings.
He thinks it’s love. But Constantine has been stalking Rose for years, trying to find the right time to finally approach her and make her his forever.
And the time has come.
Just a little bit of gore in this novella, because Constatine will never let anyone touch, Rose or hurt her. Only he’s allowed to do that.
But is that what drove them apart? What happened that made Rose light their house on fire with him in it?
To the point that she thinks that he’s dead? I’m dying to find out more of their story!
“He was always in my head, refusing to vacate my heart no matter how hard I tried to evict him.”
I can’t wait to see more of Constantine and his family. They clearly have some interesting beliefs and Rose has somehow always was meant to be has. I don’t know if her grandfather sold her or what, but I’m dying to know the backstory of Constantine, his parents, and his siblings.
He thinks it’s love. But Constantine has been stalking Rose for years, trying to find the right time to finally approach her and make her his forever.
And the time has come.
Just a little bit of gore in this novella, because Constatine will never let anyone touch, Rose or hurt her. Only he’s allowed to do that.
But is that what drove them apart? What happened that made Rose light their house on fire with him in it?
To the point that she thinks that he’s dead? I’m dying to find out more of their story!
“He was always in my head, refusing to vacate my heart no matter how hard I tried to evict him.”
February 18, 2023
(Thank you Peachy Keen and the author Natalie Bennett for the eARC in exchange for a spoiler free review)
Please read author’s content warning.
What an interesting start to this series!
I have other books from Natalie in my TBR and seeing a familiar author made me sign up for this. And no regrets!
I do feel that the general organisation of this book was a little messy but maybe that’s because this is a rework of an already existing book which I have not read. This book is a prologue for the next part and it alternates between timelines.
Constantine and Roselynn are two characters with intertwined present circumstances, a little obsession is always attractive especially if it gets more intense. I like the eerie vibe the book was giving and the suspense aspect made the book much more interesting.
Can’t wait for the next book and hopefully it’s longer!
Please read author’s content warning.
What an interesting start to this series!
I have other books from Natalie in my TBR and seeing a familiar author made me sign up for this. And no regrets!
I do feel that the general organisation of this book was a little messy but maybe that’s because this is a rework of an already existing book which I have not read. This book is a prologue for the next part and it alternates between timelines.
Constantine and Roselynn are two characters with intertwined present circumstances, a little obsession is always attractive especially if it gets more intense. I like the eerie vibe the book was giving and the suspense aspect made the book much more interesting.
Can’t wait for the next book and hopefully it’s longer!
March 15, 2021
This may not have been a true love story, but man did I love every single second. Another 5 STAR STUNNER from Natalie Bennett, the dark romance QUEEN!!! She has this fantastic way of making you fall in love with her vicious men. Because although Con was brutal, I loved him! I mean, why wouldnt you want a man that is obsessed with you like that? 🤣 Rose was tough but also alittle sick in her own way. She wanted to be free of Constantine but she loved the attention and love from him too. So much that she even got down with some of the twisted killing herself. This book was INCREDIBLE like always. I am so happy to have the original and now I am buying the paperback of this too. This author is a masterpiece. A writing GENIUS. 5 STARS.
February 22, 2021
✰✰✰✰✰ Five Star Review for Natalie Bennett’s standalone book “𝓣𝔀𝓮𝓵𝓿𝓮 𝓞𝓯 𝓡𝓸𝓼𝓮𝓼“ previously known as “𝓡𝓸𝓼𝓮 𝓓𝓮 𝓜𝓾𝓮𝓻𝓽𝓮“ re-released and re-covered. This is not a love story, themes include obsession, stalking, coercion and murder. Roselynn Morgue has had a really rough upbringing and death seems to follow her everywhere. Constantine Burrows is a guy who takes notice, takes charge, and has a certain predilection for pretty little Rose’s. He is also a little off, but that’s just how we like our boys in Natalie’s worlds.
I first had the pleasure of reading this book 3 years ago, and I absolutely loved the concept. I was new to dark romance and Natalie was my jam. After all this time she still is!
Constantine is the definition of toxic and psychotic, abusive and addictive. Like leading a lamb to slaughter Roselynn had no idea what was coming for her! It’s too bad really, when your life is planned out for you without your consent. A crazy person may call that destiny, and you know how much we all love crazy.
I first had the pleasure of reading this book 3 years ago, and I absolutely loved the concept. I was new to dark romance and Natalie was my jam. After all this time she still is!
Constantine is the definition of toxic and psychotic, abusive and addictive. Like leading a lamb to slaughter Roselynn had no idea what was coming for her! It’s too bad really, when your life is planned out for you without your consent. A crazy person may call that destiny, and you know how much we all love crazy.
February 13, 2023
I read the original story of this and was so excited when I heard Natalie was doing a rewrite I had to read it and I was not disappointed I loved this prequel we get both past and present from the characters it flips back and forth and I liked that we got glimpses into the past and what happened between these characters. Constantine and Rose’s story is not a love story it’s toxic abusive crazy and twisted this book is full of triggers so if you’re not into dark twisted stories with the possibility of no happy ending then don’t read otherwise enjoy buckle up and welcome to crazy no one does psychotic twisted complex characters quite like Natalie Bennett!
March 9, 2021
Twisted and dark AF just how I like it ! Wow I forgot how much I loved this story this was previously known as Rose De Muerte it’s been re released and covered . This book is so dark it’s obsession stalking and murder at its finest this is not a love story . I loved this twisted dark journey Natalie takes us on its everything we come to expect from the dark queen!
February 19, 2021
It doesn’t matter how many times you read a book by Natalie Bennett, it just grabs you! Twelve of Roses was just as good as the first time I read it! Such a thrilling and intense story! It’s a breath holder that’s for sure! Psychotic and gripping! Another great read!
February 9, 2023
I’m so, so glad it’s finally time for this prequel novella to come out of its chrysalis and join the world in preparation for the full-length Bitter & Sick Novel (also basically known as Twelve of Roses V2). You don’t even want to know what the trigger warning list for that book is like… or maybe you’re an absolute greedy gumdrop for the dark, depraved, and bloody and would love to get a look at that minefield. I know I danced a jig.
This short prequel novella is split between two time frames, but the vast majority of time is spent in Rose’s present, which seems to take place after the events of ToV V2. The other timeline takes place when Rose is simply a teenager with a crush, living with her grandfather across the street from Constantine Cromwell and his mysterious family. For all she believes he has a dark side and has been watching Constantine from her bedroom window for years, she has no idea just how many decisions have been made in regards to her life and how many gears of fate are turning to strip her freedom from her in the very near future. She’s just obsessed with Constantine, but he’s been obsessed with her longer and knows things she isn’t privy to yet.
In the present, Rose is just trying to keep a low profile and stay alive. She is broke in body, mind, heart, and bank account. All she’s trying to do is take everything one day at a time. But she knows she’s essentially living on borrowed time, in one way or another.
The few spice scenes Natalie could fit into this novella were short but so good, giving us a peek at what’s coming in the next book. The torture scene in the middle? A tiny taster of the widespread depravity that will come in the next book, I’m sure.
Bennett is correct to label this novella an anti-love story. This is obsession and possession. This is about having toys, playing with your toys, sleeping with your toys, and dictating who can touch your toys. But toys can be broken.
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you.
File Under: Erotic Horror/Psychological Fiction/Suspense Thriller/Romance Series/Psychological Romance/Psychological Thriller/Read at Your Own Risk Romance/Romance Novella/Spice Level 3/Suspense Romance/Suspense Thriller/Bad People Doing Hot Things
This short prequel novella is split between two time frames, but the vast majority of time is spent in Rose’s present, which seems to take place after the events of ToV V2. The other timeline takes place when Rose is simply a teenager with a crush, living with her grandfather across the street from Constantine Cromwell and his mysterious family. For all she believes he has a dark side and has been watching Constantine from her bedroom window for years, she has no idea just how many decisions have been made in regards to her life and how many gears of fate are turning to strip her freedom from her in the very near future. She’s just obsessed with Constantine, but he’s been obsessed with her longer and knows things she isn’t privy to yet.
In the present, Rose is just trying to keep a low profile and stay alive. She is broke in body, mind, heart, and bank account. All she’s trying to do is take everything one day at a time. But she knows she’s essentially living on borrowed time, in one way or another.
The few spice scenes Natalie could fit into this novella were short but so good, giving us a peek at what’s coming in the next book. The torture scene in the middle? A tiny taster of the widespread depravity that will come in the next book, I’m sure.
Bennett is correct to label this novella an anti-love story. This is obsession and possession. This is about having toys, playing with your toys, sleeping with your toys, and dictating who can touch your toys. But toys can be broken.
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you.
File Under: Erotic Horror/Psychological Fiction/Suspense Thriller/Romance Series/Psychological Romance/Psychological Thriller/Read at Your Own Risk Romance/Romance Novella/Spice Level 3/Suspense Romance/Suspense Thriller/Bad People Doing Hot Things
March 8, 2021
Nostalgic
Twelve of roses just reminds me of why I fell in love with Natalie Bennett. Con was like the bad flu that never went away and couldn't take no for an answer. At a point in time, I was frustrated for her then I remembered that she was as crazy as him🤣🤣🤣.
Con had no limit when it came to Rose and we are not gonna deceive ourselves and say he was in love, IT WAS FREAKING OBSESSION!!! He would do anything to have her in her cage close to him even going as far as changing himself and his body.
Not gonna lie this book is not for everyone and I don't recommend you make it the first book you read from Natalie but it has a certain darkness to it that will either make you roll your eyes or drag out your hair or start speaking in French 😍.
Merged review:
NOSTALGIC
Twelve of roses just reminds me of why I fell in love with Natalie Bennett. Con was like the bad flu that never went away and couldn't take no for an answer. At a point in time, I was frustrated for her then I remembered that she was as crazy as him🤣🤣🤣.
Con had no limit when it came to Rose and we are not gonna deceive ourselves and say he was in love, IT WAS FREAKING OBSESSION!!! He would do anything to have her in her cage close to him even going as far as changing himself and his body.
Not gonna lie this book is not for everyone and I don't recommend you make it the first book you read from Natalie but it has a certain darkness to it that will either make you roll your eyes or drag out your hair or start speaking in French 😍.
Twelve of roses just reminds me of why I fell in love with Natalie Bennett. Con was like the bad flu that never went away and couldn't take no for an answer. At a point in time, I was frustrated for her then I remembered that she was as crazy as him🤣🤣🤣.
Con had no limit when it came to Rose and we are not gonna deceive ourselves and say he was in love, IT WAS FREAKING OBSESSION!!! He would do anything to have her in her cage close to him even going as far as changing himself and his body.
Not gonna lie this book is not for everyone and I don't recommend you make it the first book you read from Natalie but it has a certain darkness to it that will either make you roll your eyes or drag out your hair or start speaking in French 😍.
Merged review:
NOSTALGIC
Twelve of roses just reminds me of why I fell in love with Natalie Bennett. Con was like the bad flu that never went away and couldn't take no for an answer. At a point in time, I was frustrated for her then I remembered that she was as crazy as him🤣🤣🤣.
Con had no limit when it came to Rose and we are not gonna deceive ourselves and say he was in love, IT WAS FREAKING OBSESSION!!! He would do anything to have her in her cage close to him even going as far as changing himself and his body.
Not gonna lie this book is not for everyone and I don't recommend you make it the first book you read from Natalie but it has a certain darkness to it that will either make you roll your eyes or drag out your hair or start speaking in French 😍.
February 15, 2023
Heat: 🥖🥖🥖/5
Wow, my first read from Natalie Bennett, and it packed a solid dark/horror romance punch. It has an unhinged, likely serial killing mmc, a more innocent (but just how much, we fine out she’s more than complicit) FMC, lots of dirty sex, somnophilia, torture, OTT/possessive, stalking, and much more. I loved all of it.
“I like to fuck rough. You’ll cry and beg and occasionally bleed, but I’ll always make it as good for you as it is for me.”
This is also written/told in dual POV, going between past and present. Usually, this would seem difficult to do, but the author did a great job differentiating between timelines as well as changing the voice for each POV. Constantine is one guy you do NOT want to mess with, if the kill bag in the back of his Hummer is any indication. (Rose even saw the machete and didn’t blink… bc machetes are normal to have, right?? WRONG.)
“He fucked like a borderline sadist, and I could never get enough of him.”
Is this possibly also secret society or just mafia? I do have some questions that I hope will be answered in the next book.
Anyway, I’m disappointed this is only a novella, but that only means I’m super hyped for the next book to come out!
“There’s no going back.” Fingers eased inside me, eliciting a low moan. “Let me be yours, Rose, and you’ll be my last.”
Wow, my first read from Natalie Bennett, and it packed a solid dark/horror romance punch. It has an unhinged, likely serial killing mmc, a more innocent (but just how much, we fine out she’s more than complicit) FMC, lots of dirty sex, somnophilia, torture, OTT/possessive, stalking, and much more. I loved all of it.
“I like to fuck rough. You’ll cry and beg and occasionally bleed, but I’ll always make it as good for you as it is for me.”
This is also written/told in dual POV, going between past and present. Usually, this would seem difficult to do, but the author did a great job differentiating between timelines as well as changing the voice for each POV. Constantine is one guy you do NOT want to mess with, if the kill bag in the back of his Hummer is any indication. (Rose even saw the machete and didn’t blink… bc machetes are normal to have, right?? WRONG.)
“He fucked like a borderline sadist, and I could never get enough of him.”
Is this possibly also secret society or just mafia? I do have some questions that I hope will be answered in the next book.
Anyway, I’m disappointed this is only a novella, but that only means I’m super hyped for the next book to come out!
“There’s no going back.” Fingers eased inside me, eliciting a low moan. “Let me be yours, Rose, and you’ll be my last.”
February 10, 2023
Rose is on the run, her love long gone but what happened for Rose to go on the run , is her love really gone? Is there more to Rose than meets the eye?
This prequel was a fast paced read but packed a lot of punch! We get before, after and during and the snippets we get poses more questions that I can’t wait to find the answers to in the next book.
The characters are toxic , the relationship isn’t love but obsession , there’s a darkness between Rose & Constantine, a darkness in these two that I can’t wait to find out more of, Natalie knows how to leave you begging for more & that cliffhanger?!? I can’t wait to see what’s in store of the next instalment of Rose and Constantine’s story.
This prequel was a fast paced read but packed a lot of punch! We get before, after and during and the snippets we get poses more questions that I can’t wait to find the answers to in the next book.
The characters are toxic , the relationship isn’t love but obsession , there’s a darkness between Rose & Constantine, a darkness in these two that I can’t wait to find out more of, Natalie knows how to leave you begging for more & that cliffhanger?!? I can’t wait to see what’s in store of the next instalment of Rose and Constantine’s story.
December 15, 2022
Ok ok ok. Well, I think this book has introduced me to the PSYCHO-EST of psychopaths I've read 😆 As in, this dude is scary, unhinged, manipulative and has zero boundaries. I enjoyed the pace of this story, and it is twisty and dark - I am reluctant to say it has *romance* because, well, to me it's not. She says she loves him but I don't think she does, this chick wants OUT.
Anyhoo, I found it to be a great palette cleanser in between reads and I'm definitely keen to read some of the authors longer novels!
Anyhoo, I found it to be a great palette cleanser in between reads and I'm definitely keen to read some of the authors longer novels!
February 12, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book. I wasn’t sure what to expect because I’ve never read anything by Natalie Bennett. Also there is a decent list of trigger warnings (which I would recommend you look over). I immediately fell in love with Constantine, which should tell you all you need to know about my mental state. I also really enjoyed the dual time line and actually prefer Roselynn as an adult. The spice in this is insane. Seriously 5 out of 5. I didn’t read the previous versions of this so I’m not sure how it compares but I am excited to try more from Natalie.
May 12, 2021
Didnt like the open ending, but it was in the synopsis that it would be open ended. So I was expecting it, and tried not to factor that into the rating.
A few typos/errors here and there.
I’m down for dark. And this is definitely dark.
Three stars cause I liked it, but it’s not something I’d re read. And poor Digz!!!!!
I spent the entire story being upset about Digz!!! Nothing else even phased me after that :(
A few typos/errors here and there.
I’m down for dark. And this is definitely dark.
Three stars cause I liked it, but it’s not something I’d re read. And poor Digz!!!!!
I spent the entire story being upset about Digz!!! Nothing else even phased me after that :(
February 9, 2023
I've heard great things about this author, but I hadn't gotten the chance to read anything of hers....until now.
If this book is any indication of her work, then I'm really kicking myself in the butt for waiting so long.
As soon as I started reading , I immediately sucked it. And literally could not put it down, carried it with me wherever I went. And I really needed to be hosed down more than once.
This book was absolutely amazing and left me eager for more.
If this book is any indication of her work, then I'm really kicking myself in the butt for waiting so long.
As soon as I started reading , I immediately sucked it. And literally could not put it down, carried it with me wherever I went. And I really needed to be hosed down more than once.
This book was absolutely amazing and left me eager for more.
February 16, 2023
This book was unhinged, in the best way.
This novella wasn't long enough to dive deeply into the characters of Rose and Constantine but the glimpse we got was dark and twisted.
The darkness of Rose and Constantine clearly feed off of each other, and what I did like was the back and forth of getting to see traces of how Rose came to be in her current damages state.
I do love a stalker element and the way the story ended leaves me anticipating volume 2!
This novella wasn't long enough to dive deeply into the characters of Rose and Constantine but the glimpse we got was dark and twisted.
The darkness of Rose and Constantine clearly feed off of each other, and what I did like was the back and forth of getting to see traces of how Rose came to be in her current damages state.
I do love a stalker element and the way the story ended leaves me anticipating volume 2!
June 4, 2021
Yet again this author had blown my mind with her unique way with words. This is one of those stories I wish I buddy read with a friend so I could chat as I read. With the twists and turns coming I didn’t know how the story was gonna go.
I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
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