Bleed II

The Skull Serial Killer #2

by Emerald O'Brien

From bestselling author Emerald O'Brien comes Book #2 of The Skull Serial Killer Thriller series readers are calling "a sinister, completely cinematic story brought to life by a powerhouse author who is at the top of her game." and "... my favorite read of 2023!"- Kiersten Modglin, bestselling author of The Arrangement

Last Halloween, they paid his toll.
This November, The Skull returns.

Written by a student of the slasher genre, lover of horror, and bestselling author of over twenty psychological thriller novels, Emerald O’Brien’s twisted new series in the vein of Riley Sager and Taylor Adams is sure to bring readers heart-pounding suspense.

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2023

About the author

Emerald O’Brien is a Canadian writer who grew up just east of Toronto, Ontario. She studied Television Broadcasting and Communications Media, and graduated from the program at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario.

When Emerald is not reading or writing unpredictable stories packed with suspense, she loves baking, bonfires, binging Netflix shows, and spending time with family.

A horror movie enthusiast, Emerald can be found watching them at the movie theatre with her best friend or while cuddled up on the couch with her favourite snacks.

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Reviews

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is clearly book 2 and definitely I recommend reading book 1 first (plus you should anyway, it’s awesome). After reading this one I feel even more strongly that this series reminds me of Scream, not that the plot is the same but the vibe is and I am definitely hear for it (another year before book 3?!?!?). Fox and her friends are trying to move past the events of last Halloween, but when a book is published it becomes even harder to avoid despite them all swearing not to give interviews parts of the book seem eerily accurate. When two of Fox and Jack’s friends are murdered in a very similar way they are sure someone is after them again despite knowing the killer died before. This one is full of twists and turns and definitely kept my interest til the last page. A perfectly spooky end to the fall season.

[Kiersten Modglin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emerald O’Brien continues to raise the stakes and up her game with the newest installment in the Skull Serial Killer Series. I missed these characters and was so happy to slip back into the dark and terrifying world of Auburn Hills to see them. Filled with all the signature moments from every great horror film, while still managing to stand on its own with pure heart, interesting and lovable characters, and twists you WILL NEVER (and I mean NEVER) see coming, this is a book and a series you won’t soon forget. Fans of horror films like Scream and Halloween, this one’s for you. O’Brien’s love and respect for horror films and this “chiller” genre is on full display throughout this series, and whether you’re a lifelong fan or relatively new to her work, she will make you fall in love with the beautiful and terrifying way her mind works as she tells yet another phenomenal and absolutely sinister story. You know that saying “mother is mothering”? Well in this case, the chiller is chilling. Emerald O’Brien is THE QUEEN of the chiller thriller and I am here for it! 🙌🏻

[Renko Dekker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in The Skull Serial Killer thriller series is called Bleed II, an homage to the classic slasher films like Scream and Halloween. I received a digital copy from the author as I reviewed book 1 in the series as well. It'll be out on the 30th of November so, grab a copy of book 1, read it first and then you can immediately continue in book 2. You won't be disappointed!

Halloween was last year, they suffered greatly, but now they're trying to rebuild their lives but somehow The Skull isn't far away.

The first half of the book is more focused on how all the different characters cope with the horrible events that took place a year earlier. All in their own way they struggle to lead a normal life. Constantly reminded of what happened is a heavy burden to carry. This part gives a brilliant insight into the personalities of the different characters and how people react to trauma.
The second part of the story is more like book 1. It's somehow not over yet. The horrific cat and mouse game instigated by a new killer is like an unstoppable train leading up to an inevitable climax. Just like book 1, this part has all the ingredients of a cult slasher film, but with so much more depth because of the first part. Using their trauma as their strength to fight the new killer is described perfectly.

I loved the fact that you get a more personal and dramatized first half of the book so you see the trauma that has been inflicted on the characters before we turn to second slashing. Moreover, the fact that I didn't see the ultimate twist coming and having me guess throughout almost the entire book, speaks about the capable hands of the author.

Go get book 1 and pre-order book 2! Because it's most definitely a recommendation!

5/5 ⭐

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the skull serial killer series is a dark and terrifying complex story that preys on readers' most palable fears burrowing into our deepest fears and taking hold of our imagination. The author has layers of mystery and twist that you will never predict. My heart rate was physically jolted as I turned each page.
I absolutely loved the scare, shock of the killers' deadly game. The author is a master at creating a book after the horror genre film's but she has surpassed them by weaving a chilling story that is more intense and brilliantly written. When the finale was revealed, I was blown away.

[Elle (IG: simply.elle18) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Skull Serial Killer Thriller series does not disappoint! (Be sure to read Book 1 first!) Again I was on the edge of my seat reading this one, with all the twists and turns keeping me guessing right up to the end. And what an ending - I did NOT see that coming!


This series is a blend of psychological suspense, thriller, and slasher, with definite Scream vibes. Grab a copy of both books and enjoy the ride! 


I received an ARC from the author and reviewed it voluntarily.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished Bleed II about a week ago and have been letting it brew in my mind for a while. There are two things I have to come clean on. The first one is that I am getting old. I had a hard time at first putting the names to the characters and how they relate to each other from the first book. For example who were the original friends from the first book and who are their boyfriends. I will blame that on my age but will advise that you may want to read the first book in the Bleed series first. They don’t do well as stand alone novels.

The second admission is that I am really far behind. I’m trying to catch up while staying caught up if you know what I mean. So, actually I blame that on having a hard time with the characters in the beginning of Bleed II. Life has been getting in my way the last couple of years. 

Here is the good news! I really enjoyed this book and think it is an awesome new addition to the Bleed series. I know there is one more book coming in October. These books are my first foray into the Slasher genre. I’ve always steered clear of those books and movies. I don’t like blood and gore or violence but, I will always make an exception for any of Emerald’s books.

Emerald O’Brien has a way of making you care so much about her characters and what they are going through that I didn’t mind the slasher parts so much. I wanted to make sure they all came out safe and unharmed. I will tell you that you are going to have to read the books to see what happens because I certainly am not going to ruin it for you.

I also want you to know that her story lines are not far fetched or something that she just makes happen. When you read these books you are positive that these things really could happen and that some people will go to extremes to do what they do. I hear of horrific events every day on the news. So, I know these things can happen.

Ok! You have until October to read Bleed I and II. Get yourself ready for Bleed III. You are not going to want to miss it. Take my word that you don’t have to be a slasher fan to love these books. If you love this genre and you haven’t read them, what are you waiting for?  Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[KKEC Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bleed II by Emerald O’Brien

Published: November 30, 2023
Emerald O’Brien
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pages: 259
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.

Emerald O'Brien is a Canadian author, born and raised just east of Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from her Television Broadcasting and Communications Media program at Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario.
In 2014, Emerald decided to pursue her life-long passion for writing unpredictable stories packed with suspense. When she is not reading or writing, Emerald can be found with family and friends. Watching movies with her two beagles is one of her favourite ways to spend an evening at home.

Holy. The build-up in this book was intense. Just when you think things couldn’t get any worse- whew.

This series is exceptionally twisted diabolically devious, and the plot keeps thickening. The character development in this book was so well crafted. The way Emerald brought grief to life for several different characters and the way she embodied emotion so delicately is true mastery.

This story is scary. It is fast-paced, and it leaves you guessing. There is no figuring out the twists before Emerald is ready to reveal it, and when she does- she does.

I loved the dimensions of Fox. We saw much more of that in this book, which only endears this character to us more. The themes are powerful—loyalty, trust, forgiveness, friendship, truth, and survival.

Emerald takes the most human elements and brings them to life in a relatable way. She has created a stunning cast of characters that will have you sleeping with the lights on.

[C.A. Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bleed II is a chilling släsher novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Emerald does a fantastic job blending suspense, horror, and psychological thrills together in this story. Because of this she is able to take her readers on a terrifying journey as once again her characters are being tormented by a crazed k!||er.

I am a huge fan of 80s släsher horror movies and Emerald brings me right back there with this series!

Emerald builds tension and suspense, creating an atmosphere of constant fear and unease. The story is filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it impossible to predict who will be the next victim or who might be hiding a dark secret.

Emerald's characters are so likeable and because of this it allows readers to become emotionally invested in their survival, heightening the stakes and intensifying the horror.

Emerald did a wonderful job transitioning from book 1 to book 2 and I loved how she spent time telling us how each of the survivors are handling the horror that happened to them last Halloween.

I will say that ending, was not only intense, it was jaw dropping and I was totally blindsided!

I know it keeps being compared to Scream and other movies in that era but although it is similar this book is in a league of its own! I'd love to see a movie made from this!

[Carrie Shields · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒅 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕, 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖?

Of course you must read the first book before starting this one, so don't even ask. The events in Book 2 take place a year after the terrible events of Book 1. Fox and her friends are trying to get on with their lives and move past the loss, but when a book is published about their ordeal, they find themselves dodging the limelight. And for everyone swearing not to give interviews or talk to the press, parts of the book are so accurate that only an insider would know certain information.

The first half of the book is quieter, focusing on each character and how they have been changed by trauma and loss, and the second half...all I can say is hold on because the author is going to take you on one wild ride that will leave you absolutely breathless for Book 3. After reading the first installment, these characters already felt real to me, so meeting up with them again in this book was like welcoming back old friends. I am so ready to see how the author plans on concluding this trilogy!

Thank you so much to the author for my place on her ARC team and for a copy of this book that is available now!

[Lisa Wetzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bleed II is the second book in Emerald O’Brien’s The Skull Serial Killer Series. I thought the first book in this series, Bleed, was unbelievable but this one sent me over the edge. This is a perfectly orchestrated mix of thriller and horror and that will knock your socks off. It is well written with perfectly placed suspenseful twists that will make your head spin. The characters are very well developed, you will like some and some not so much. The tension is thick and unbelievable. You will not be able to put this one down!! Once again, there is another jaw dropping ending to make your goosebumps get goosebumps. Awesome book Emerald O’Brien, cannot wait for the next one.

Thank you Emerald O’Brien for this spine tingling book to read and review.
#emeraldobrien. #bleedII. #the skullserialkillerseries. #arc
#indieauthor

[Tara Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t believe she’s done it!! Book 2 of O’Brien’s Bleed Trilogy is even better than the first! We saw the horrors created by The Skull come to an end upon his death in Bleed I, and yet the Seven-Strong are back in the next installment, facing death around every corner. The murder scene of two friends who wanted to reveal the truth is all too familiar. Is this the work of a copycat killer? The pair were seated in and tied to two chairs facing one another so they could each watch as the life of the one they loved the most was stolen, just as The Skull had done last Halloween. Bleed II is a heart pounding slasher thriller that I couldn’t put down! I was glued to each page as I followed the journey of such beloved characters through to survival. Grab this book, hold your breath, and RUN until you find out who makes it out alive…at least until Bleed III comes along! I can’t wait!

[Melissa (honeybee.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bleed 2 is the second book in the skull serial killer series. You need to read the first book in order to understand the storyline and characters. It was a stellar sequel with all the aspects of a good horror flick. Fans of slasher movies you need to get your hands on this series.

I loved revisiting the characters and the town of Auburn Hills. These characters have gone through so much together and I love their growth. The ending exceeded all my expectations, those twists, I never saw them coming.

It was a fast paced, thrilling, nail biting, edge of your seat read that will keep you entertained until the last page. As usual O'Brien style this is a movie that will play in your head, the imagery she creates with her words is insane.

✨️ Thank you to @emeraldobrien for my free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Bree · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always round up, so this is about a 3.75 for me. I LOVE the plot line of this series. If you enjoy the Scream series, I think you'd be a fan of these.

This one had a few plot discrepancies, but the storyline was still amazing! The skull killer is back, and until the last minute, you are guessing who it is. There is a tightknit set of friends who just want to get back to their normal lives after a serial killer turned their lives upside down the Halloween before. Always looking over their shoulders, things seem to be happening again. The end of book 1 hints at another killer, so do we know this person? Who will it be?! I love the suspense building, but also the relationships built, kept, and some not kept throughout the books so far.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! This is the second book in this series, make sure you read book 1 before tackling this one. A group of friends trying to rebuild their lives after experiencing a traumatic event where some of their friends were killed. Will they ever be able to move on, when events keep dragging up the past? Too many people want to know the "supposed truth" surrounding that fateful night. New murders executed exactly the same, can there be a copycat killer or did the original killer have an accomplice? Unbelievable twist will knock you off your seat! Who lives and who dies this time? A psychological thriller you won't want to miss!!! Received an ARC and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Behind The Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

And just when I believed it couldn't possibly worsen, Emerald O'Brien exceeded my expectations once more, but in a more terrifying manner!
I was completely immersed in the depths of this second installment of the series.
She flawlessly transitioned from the initial book to this one, a feat that is often challenging in a series.
In this horrifying sequel, the spotlight is on the survivors and their lives after the ordeal, and not only did the plot improve, but the characters as well.
"If you have a penchant for horror, Bleed and it's bone chilling sequel are an absolute necessity!"
Both deserve a resounding five-star rating!

[Valettagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bleed II sees Fox carry on where she left off. Stalwart, caring and determined to rebuild her life. Unfortunately fate has chosen her to be the bearer of grief as she battles an unknown foe yet again. As the story unravels, you are once again transported to a place where fear and confusion reign. Disbelief as differing characters are menacingly placed in the frame for murder and distress as good friends are killed or injured. As the tension ramps up; every waking thought is consumed by”who is it? “. The answer is unbelievably twisted. I never saw that one coming for a second. Wow what a read.
Sent from my iPhone

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read a book yet by this author that I haven’t enjoyed but this one leaves me speechless. The storyline is amazing with suspense that ebbs and flows repeatedly. The book is well written with not a hint as to who the villain might be at any point until there is a reveal. When there is a gap between the first and second book in a series it often feels like you need to reestablish your relationship with them. These characters are so fully developed that you feel like you put down book one nd immediately started book two. Be prepared, once you begin to read you won’t want to put this book down.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.

[Courtney Rennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another standing ovation, Emerald! You are officially the slasher queen! I wasn't sure if you could top the first as its my absolute favorite but you somehow turned my dislike for sequels for slashers into an absolute LOVE!

The chills, the goosebumps, the way I kept guessing wrong....

Pick this series up and quick as Bleed 3 comes out in October 2024!

Some of my fav quotes:

"Mostly, she would have told him to find the thing worth staying for and hold onto it."

"It takes some compromise to be in a relationship, and if you're not with someone worth compromising for, maybe you're not in the right one."

"Life and death wasn't hers to decide upon, but for survival, she would."

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! I did need to go back and reread the first one to refresh my memory of the details and reacquaint myself with the characters. I usually don’t read a book more than once so that goes to show how much I loved the first one. So imagine my surprise when I finished book 2 and thought omg I think I loved it more than the first one! The characters are well written and well developed. The atmosphere is creepy. The suspense palatable, you’re left always wondering who you can trust. Add in the twists and the slasher gore and you’ve got an amazing book that’s begging to be made into a series/movie! I would so be there for that! I can’t wait to read book 3!

[Joanne Ranzell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in The Skull Serial Killer series, this one is just as captivating as the first. We meet up with the characters from the first book, who are trying as best they can to return to normal life after the horror they've experienced. But an evil being decides otherwise. And so begins another nightmare for those who survived.

I've never been a fan of horror films or books. I decided to dive head first into the series because I love Emerald O'Brien's books and trust her talent. I was not disappointed. Prepare to experience a range of emotions and sleep a little less soundly for a few days. This series is that mesmerizing.

[K Towle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second in The Skull Serial Killer series and an absolute must read! The survivors of the first book get together after 2 of Jack and Fox's friends are murdered in the same manner as the murders of last year. They know their serial killer has been dead for a year, they saw him die, but the killings are extremely similar. The amount of twists and turns in this book will have you in suspense until the last page! An absolute must is to read the first in this series before reading this one, it will all come together!

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seven survived. A bloody Halloween. But John Castle was dead. Then how were the murders starting again? Why did Fox feel as if there was something off, something wrong? Was it just paranoia leftover from the last killing spree? No. Someone was out to finish what had been started in book 1. How many will survive this time? Written by a true master in this genre, this book is terrifyingly good. I finished reading it in one sitting because I could not put it down. I absolutely loved reading this as I have loved EVERY word Emerald O’Brien has written. Just phenomenal!

[Sarah Jules · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Bleed and never in my wildest dreams did I think the sequel would be even better. I refuse to give you guys spoilers but THAT ENDING IS WILD! I never would have guessed it in a million years. In this book we get to know the characters more, and see how they're coping in the aftermath of their trauma. Emerald is incredibly talented at writing believable characters, and a compelling story. At times, I forgot I was reading. I can't wait for Book Three!!

[DAVID ALSPECTOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Needs to be a movie.

Emerald O’Brien isn’t playing games with this Bleed series. This is an illustrious tale that is not only tantalizing and wonderfully terrifying, but a tale so eerily well woven that it’s easily worthy of praise from Laurie Strode herself. If you’re a fan of old school frights, then O’Brien will slash her way into your heart.

Don’t sleep on this series for a minute.

Then again, you might not sleep after it….

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

The survivors of the Skull's murders are trying to move on with their lives and live with survivor's guilt. It doesn't help that Dr. Malcom Flannigan has published a book about that horrible night -- Behind The Skull, filled with some facts he shouldn't have and a lot of fiction. But it goes deeper than that. Another surprising ending! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Serena Soape · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow - the second book in this series is just as good as the first. Emerald O'Brien has knocked it out of the park with this again and kept me on the edge of my seat....
This is a thriller series that you do not want to miss. You will be up late reading once you pick this one up!!!

I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.

[Erin Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah! I'm typically a skeptic when it comes to sequels or a series. Emerald slashes book two and leaves you with your jaw hanging wide open! I screamed "Oh my god!" at the book several times. It's once again a fast-paced, at the edge of your seat, nail bitter that reads like you're watching your favorite film! Emerald brilliantly takes her thrilling writing to the next level with this series thus far.

Be sure to read Bleed I first and then dive into this crazy part two!

[Rachel Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Bleed II” by Emerald O’Brien is book two of The Skull Serial Killer Thriller Series, and it absolutely lived up to the high expectations set by book one. Just as chilling and suspenseful, this installment kept me hooked from start to finish. I’m officially addicted to this series and can’t wait to dive into book three!

[Lynn Schmitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fox and Jack-
Two cousins who have been through more than most. Murder seems to follow them wherever they go. Just when they think things have settled down they take a turn for the worse. I was guessing the whole book. Can't wait for book 3 of the series!!

[Nancy Downing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a great sequel! Emerald O’Brien does it again! This book is just as good as the first. A spine-tingling, non-stop thrill ride of suspense with so many twists and turns you’ll have no idea what’s coming next. I blew threw this one and loved every minute of it.