A Web of Lust and Sorrow

Darkly Depraved Monsters

by Violet Taylor

“Don’t follow her, don’t offer aid

For soon you’ll sense the price you’ve paid...”

Everett never anticipated that a nighttime walk through the streets of Tokyo would put him in the path of a beautiful and mysterious woman with the potential to change his life forever. But after following the girl of his dreams into the woods, he awakes in a nightmare—an underground chamber of horrors. The caves beneath Mt. Fuji are home to demons more terrifying—and fitfully arousing—than anything Everett could have imagined.

What do these loathsome monsters want? His blood, of course. But it’s soured by fear. Lust is their favorite flavor, and Everett finds himself used and confused in a pleasure-filled hell with only the promise of death at the end of his stay.

Unless someone is willing to help him escape...

“Where two legs stand, six more will grow

There’s no escape for those who know…”

*Based on the lore of Jorōgumo, the shapeshifting woman and Spider of Death.

A Web of Lust and Sorrow contains graphic violence, sexually explicit content, dubcon, mentions of suIcide, and more. 18+

Genres: Monster Romance, Dark Romance, Dark, Fantasy, Monsters, Paranormal, Smut

85 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 10, 2023

About the author

Violet Taylor is a crystal and candle shop owner by day and a paranormal romance novelist by night. She spends her free time fantasizing about living in an isolated mountain cabin with her wonderful husband and herd of fur babies. She prefers her books with magic, mates, and plenty of muscles.

Reviews

[Peppa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gouda this was such a amazing monster horror/romance novella!!
The story grabs you from the start and never lets go. Sure, I would’ve loved a full-length novel (more spice is always a good thing ), but honestly? Nothing felt missing.

Rika and Everett’s story was intense, emotional, and perfectly satisfying. I loved watching Rika transform from a timid captive into a fiercely protective “touch him and die” queen. And Everett? Ufff I loved him. A monster romance MMC done right!

The legend of the Jorogumo was totally new to me, and I loved how the author wove it into the story without overwhelming the plot. And that setting at the end, the Aokigahara Forest? ABSOLUTELY GENIUS. It added this eerie, atmospheric layer that took the book to another level.

Whether you’re a monster romance veteran or just dipping your toes in, this is a must-read! It’s fast, fiery and full of feeling.

Trops/kinks/safety
🖤monster/human later Monster/Monster
(Same MMC and FMC)
🖤spider monster
🖤body horror
🖤mention of suicide
🖤death/killing
🖤kidnapping
🖤size difference
🖤both deserved better
🖤dubcon
🖤non con (on MMC)
🖤rough sex
🖤bondage
🖤anal
🖤double penetration
🖤blood (play)/feeding

[Jamie's BookNook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had the pure pleasure of recieving an ARC of "A web of lust & sorrow" and I couldn't have torn into it any faster! I absolutely love the way Violet spun this tale. Her wicked way with words had me entranced the entire time! I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read more of her work!!

[XelSo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had the honour to get an ARC, and I enjoyed it. I read it in one sitting. It's fast paced and let me say very creative.
It's no secret I love a good monster book, and this delivered. We have spider monsters, love and smut. So. much. smut. With a little bit of a dark twist. You really can't ask for anything better.

Honestly I was surprised with the characters, the roles got reversed (Read for yourself and check what I mean).

If ya'll want a quick dark monster romance with smut this is the one.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was fast paced and sucked me in to where I had no choice but to read it in one sitting. Novellas can be hit or miss for me because sometimes I hate how rushed it feels and feel like more time needed to be spent developing the characters and the storyline. Not with this story. Would I have liked it to be a full novel? Well sure because that means more of those spicy scenes 🥵 but I did not feel as though something was missing. Violet did a masterful job setting the scene and hooking you right away. We were given enough to understand what was going on and to cheer for Rika and Everett. I was not familiar with the legend of Jorōgumo, so I liked that she gave as info before starting the story. Whether you’re a veteran monster romance reader or just dipping your toes in for a try, I highly recommend this book!

[Micronova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be sure to check your content warnings…
This was such a great monster short story!!!

I am half Japanese and was extremely intrigued by the incorporation of the legend of Jorogumo. Violet did it justice. The pace was fast and intense, I finished this story quickly. I can’t delve too much without spoiling anything but I loved the MMC, Everett but especially loved the FMC, Rika. Her evolution from being the weak pet in the beginning to the touch him and die at the end was fantastic. But the use of the Aokigahara Forest at the end….That was freaking genius.

I’m happy to know that this short story is just one in the Darkly Depraved Monster series and I cannot wait to read the rest.

I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

web of lust and sorrow

Web of Lust and Sorrow
A Dark Romance Monster Short
Darkly Depraved Monsters book six
Violet Taylor
Stars:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
HEA
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.

Tropes:
- [x] MMMonsters!
- [x] PNR
- [x] Dark romance
- [x] Bl00d play
- [x] Forced proximity
- [x] Non-con
- [x] Voyeurism

LOVE INTERESTS:
Everett
Rika

Perfect smutty 💦 short story for Halloween 🎃!!! This has been my favorite book in the series thus far! I will defiantly recommend this book to anyone looking for a Halloween rec, spider monsters and a dark romance short story!

[Samantha May · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got to read the ARC. Perfect start to spooky season. I loved that it was more of a novella, and devoured the book in a day. Violet did an amazing job of being very imaginative and detailed. If you are looking to read a spicy monster/creature book and do not know where to start I would 10/10 recommend this as a fabulous book to start with. The ending was just perfect! The sneak peek into the next book looks just as amazing. Wonderful Job Violet, I do not expect anything but perfection from you! 💕

[Desiree Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC and I read it in about an hour. It’s a short novella centered around the Japanese legend of Jorōgumo. I won’t lie, I HATE spiders so I was a little nervous I wouldn’t be able to overlook that aspect but it didn’t effect the story negatively at all for me. The chemistry between Rika and Everett was strong from the start and the spicy scenes were definitely interesting to say the least. *spoiler ahead!* I only wish that Sibbie didn’t die in the fire and Everett would have had the chance to devour her once he transformed because she deserved a much more painful death.

[Ryann Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this so fast! It was exciting and creepy and sexy as hell. I swear if these Japanese spider people are a real thing I cannot.

The spice was sooooooo well written tho. There’s
🕸️human x human 🌶️
🕸️monster x human 🌶️
🕸️bondage
🕸️group play
🕸️biting
🕸️Double 🍆

And honestly then ending was so freaking cute!!!! If you don’t mind 8 legs and want a fast fun and spicy read this book is for you.

[Atlas Buswold · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the honor of reading this as an ARC and omg 😭🩷 it was short but it was leaving me wanting so much more! The story was great and smut level I'd totally give it a 4.5/5 spice! I would've liked more character development but overall it was a fantastic read through! Definitely would read again especially for the FMC Rika!

[Krysta Angotti · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was not what I was expecting. I really enjoy Violet Taylor’s work but this was something one and different. I don’t know how she pulled it off but she did. I didn’t see the twist at the end happening but it makes a lot more sense now and how this could have a happy ending in some sense of the word.

[Shelby Blassingame · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving the ARC for this short story and I am so thankful I did. It starts off interesting and leaves you wanting more. I think I read it in less than an hour 😮‍💨 check the trigger warnings before reading! I can’t wait to read more of Violets work!

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have definitely not read a story like this.
We’ve got lore, violence, bondage, darkness, kidnapping, spiders, and some hot hot scenes.
This was a great novella and it was easy to picture all the scenes with violets descriptive writing

Quick spicy and fun read!

[Megan Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book yesterday and immediately devoured it (pun intended 😉). Thank you so much to this author for allowing me early access to this book; it was an honor!

First, I will say, this is my first foray into monster/creature romance... and, personally, I don't think creature romance is for me, but I'm giving this book 4 stars because of the author's wonderful writing and exceptional creativity!

Second, when I tell you this book is spicy....🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥🔥🔥🔥🥵!!!! (Please make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading this book) I would say, if you have any adversion to spiders, I would skip this read. 🕷️

[Taylor Haines · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor to be given an ARC. This book was so good. I love every minute of it and definitely loved the spicy scenes. The only thing I didn’t quite like was it was a little fast past but for it being a short story totally understand. But besides that it was Perfect *chef kiss*

[Hannah Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure about a spider monster romance but I loved this one! Not at all what I expected but it was so good and a great monster romance! They had an instant connection that really stuck out and helped them in the end. This was a wild but fun ride 😂

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Bob · Rating 4 out of 5]

While “monster romance” isn’t typically a genre I read, the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Violet Taylor’s novella intrigued me. Unfamiliar with the Jorōgumo theme, I embarked on the story with curiosity. To my surprise, I found myself quickly engrossed in the narrative. The captivating bond between Everett and Rika was skillfully developed, keeping me hooked throughout. The spice in this story was very imaginative, and made me see spiders (and monsters) in a whole new light. I eagerly anticipate delving into more of Violet Taylor’s enthralling monster-themed novellas.

[Baiba Loves Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark monster romance, like non other i read before, very good, very hot and full of smutty surprises, also the monsters here are the women! Loved it!

[Ashley Jeffers · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘✨

Going into this novella, I wasn't sure what it was going to be about but I ended up loving it. It was so unique and unexpected, and I've never read anything like it. The idea of bringing a local folklore about a seductive spider who shapeshifts into a beautiful woman, and turning it into a dark and spicy monster reality was absolutely amazing. I was sucked in immediately wanting to find out if Everette escapes and surprised by the unexpected twist that brought the whole story together. The story was all-consuming and I felt on edge and creeped out but in the best ways! We don't get much characters development on Everett and Rika but with it being a novella, I was able to build the characters in my imagination. I would definitely recommend this story if your looking for a fast read packed with emotion that leaves you wanting more.

[J.V. Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Web of Lust and Sorrow
a Novella by Violet Taylor

(mostly) Spoiler-free review

Holy Sh!t!!! I mean, Got-dayum! There is unhinged, horror, dark paranormal romance, and super-nova spice—and then there’s this story. Be warned. It will leave you changed. What on earth would ever compel me to read a tale that strikes through the heart of my most visceral terror…spiders? Don’t ask. And these are the arachnids of nightmares.

It’s only 96 pages, so don’t bother putting it down. Just hang on tight and pray you make it out alive. Here is the gist: Yōkai: A nightmarish spider woman. A shapeshifter that lures men into a dark place where they are fed upon by a trio of elder Jorōgumo, yōkai who are permanently formed. The blood of their victims tastes best when the poor dude is in the throes of sexual excitement. So, it’s the task of the yōkai to not only capture but also to… You get the picture.

Somehow, the short tale goes from debased bestial erotica to totally unhinged…wtf just happened? I’m talking to giant eight-legged monsters fucking the hell out of each other with…unique appendages. All in under a hundred pages! And STILL comes out HEA.

There ain’t enough trigger warnings to prepare you for this, but if you’re feeling your oats, I can’t recommend it enough. The writing is excellent, and the story grabs hold and doesn’t let go until you are totally…um…spent.

This is the only novella I have ever given five stars.

[Malini · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was done so well! Like the author has stated, this is a spider romance. They are the scariest things for me, that being said this was amazing! What a imagination! The writing is wonderful and there is never a dull moment. The plot was so intriguing, mysterious and emotional.

Spinning web by MeemsAngel82

Beautiful woken lure men away like sirens and then feed. This beauty is like them but not. She feels a connection to the one she has caught. As does he and together they fight for freedom and to be together.

Again, not a spider fan but what an incredibly imaginative tale! How fantastic was this?! I am going to give her so much credit. Unusual, yes. But wow, how unique this was. The chemistry between our couple never waned and I am so happy that the physical connection was between them only. The twist, how clever and it made me so happy because they are so good together and every "monster" deserves love. What happens to them and the forest is fitting and beautifully done, nature taking it's course.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s like I’ve been thrust into the endless black of a frozen night sky and Everett is the only star for a million miles. His energy is warm, bright. I’m drawn to him in a way that I’ve never been drawn to the others.

This was a weird one. I wasn't really too invested since I didn't love either of the characters, but it was sexy and interesting.

The Good:
- The smut is written well and creatively
- The story is different than the norm and was a nice break from my regular books
- The story is short and fast-paced

The Bad:
- The spider sex was not really my thing but it was a neutral point for me. I appreciate that the book was not over-saturated with this.
- Both characters were so morally grey that I didn't care if they had a HEA. Again, I don't really feel like this is a bad thing.

The Ugly:
- Nothing

For me, this was a very sub-par book. The story was interesting, the sex was good, the pacing and length were perfect, and nothing was really wrong with it. I just didn't resonate with it.

[FloofyMooseReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Web of Lust and Sorrow by Violet Taylor is a novella/short story in the author’s Darkly Depraved Monster series. These are dark, spicy monster stories. This story is based off of the lore of Jorogumo, which is a shape shifting woman/spider of death. This is for adult audiences only, and please do check the full list of content warnings as there is a fair amount of spice, graphic violence and death.

I loved how this was tied to a folk lore story I hadn’t heard before - that was fun to learn. I also liked that there was a plot with tension, given the short length, and I had no idea how this was going to resolve.

I would have liked to learn more about the two main characters, especially their background.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Recommendation: I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This was a fun shirt that packed a punch for its length. If you want a quick little smutty monster break from long epic novels, this is perfect!

[Madeline Paige Fornes · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Fear is an invisible shackle, more powerful than any physical chains.“

I’ve always been afraid of spiders, but I’ve learned that my fear is conditioned. It’s not my own. I have spent the last few years working on getting rid of that fear. Spending time with them outside, and learning more about them has helped.

I may not ever invite one into my bed, but I’ll gladly read about others doing so. And this short read is the perfect example of doing so. If that’s not your thing? Cool! Let’s not judge an author or a reader.

“Those who end up snared in Jorōgumo’s web are never seen again.”

Everett seemed quite happy to be snared in the web and never seen again. This romance was woven (heh) flawlessly, and had a well thought out HEA for Everett and Rika. They end up being some of the kindest monsters for others and the best partners for each other.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chelsea Tuffy · Rating 4 out of 5]

First let me start off with this is my first toe dipping into monster smut and let me say- it was an experience! I'm still not sure I can articulate my feelings well but I am going to do my best.

Violet Taylor is a fantastic writer! Even when this novella took turns into unfamiliar territory for me her writing had already hooked me enough that I was compelled to push out of my comfort zone and experience the world this book had to offer.

I think this was a great way to dive into spooky season- this novella gave me Trick R' Treat vibes with the suspense of what you think is an urban legend morphing into this terrifying and sexy world. I found Rika and Everett to be likeable characters and I immediately began rooting for them to find their happy ending but damn if that twist at the end didnt shake me up. I am very much looking forward to the rest of this series.

[Brittni Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monster smut at its finest!! Violet Taylor has done it again!! She has taken something I would never had thought would make a beautiful monster romance novella and does that. Makes a beautiful story. The darkness, suspense, and the love, all of it, had me on my toes making me read all of it in one sitting! This gets a 5 from me because it was such an original story and new concept FOR ME. There was a power change here that I wasn't sure I was going to like but ended up being written in a way I couldn't help but submit to 😉. This story has darkness to it but if you're familiar with her work, you won't be caught off guard. Violet Taylor, you've got me in a chokehold! That surprise blurb for your next story has me on the lookout ready for it👏👏👏

[E.R. Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I suck at reviews so bare with me lol.

I really enjoyed the unique twist violet likes to take with her books, and this story was no exception. I have to admit after reading her Scarecrow book I have a little PTSD when it comes to her endings lol I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It kept my attention and kept me wondering where things were going to go the whole time. The writing was good and overall it was a fun story. The only thing I wish was touched on just a little more was there feelings for each other. I feel like at some point it got muddled in with so much going on that you can’t feel their relationship developing if that makes sense. This could absolutely be a personal preference too. I like to the extra conformation on everyone’s feelings.

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a quick read, this book had so much happening! Not a fluffy romance, this story has some bite. I was enthralled with the story of the Jorogumo, which was not a legend I am familiar with.

While in Japan on business, Everett wanders into a less touristy part of town. There, the locals tell him tales of the Jorogumo, who take unwary men who are enamoured by their pretty appearances. But appearances can be deceiving as Everett soon finds out...

Rika despises what she has to do to survive. If only there was a way to stop the Jorogumo for good!

Rika develops feelings for Everett, which will only lead her to more heartbreak. But Everett returns her feelings. What kind of future could they possibly have?

This book is amazing, perfect read for a chilly evening.

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a spicy dark monster romance novella and part of the Darkly Depraved Monsters series of standalones.

MMC Everett is filled with ennui after closing a successful business deal in Tokyo. Wandering the streets in search of something to excite him, he becomes enraptured by a beautiful, mysterious woman. She brings him back to her literal lair, as a sacrifice to the other monsters she serves as a pet to. They feed on his blood and lust.

This was an extra-spicy dark romance. I enjoyed the blend of myth and lore mixed with the lust and horror elements. The story took a few exciting twists and turns.

I always enjoy Taylor’s dark monster stories, and I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve next.

Spice 5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5

[Jenna Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story is super fast paced but it’s greatly detail oriented. The world building is awesome and I love the plot/story overall. I wouldn’t say it’s “action packed” but it has a very steady flow of events and twists that will keep you wanting more. The characters are well written and I’m really looking forward to the next short story. I’ve never been a fan of spider or anything involving them but this short sucked me in and kept on going. The women were stunning and the men so handsome but the spicy is so spicy. If you’re looking for a great shirt with a lot of spice and a Halloween feel. This book is for you! Highly recommend for spooky season!