What do you think?
Rate this book
The Taste of Women
After years of carnage and bloodshed, the world's most notorious killer may have met her match.
For decades, she has eluded law enforcement, leaving a trail of death in her wake. Once again on the run, this time assuming the identity of horror novelist Katherine Bishop, she settles into rural southeast Texas, where she lures ghostwriter Arianta Collins to her new lair of hell.
Having only three months for Arianta to write her new book and then satisfy her insatiable cravings, things quickly spiral out of control as Katherine's heart grows bigger than her stomach, blurring the lines between predator and prey.
Will Katherine be able to battle her internal moral compass and the challenges that arise, or will her reign of terror finally come to an end, not at the hands of the authorities, but by those closest to her?
"The Taste of Women" is a disturbing and chilling horror novel that explores the depths of human depravity and the complexities of morality. Follow Katherine's dark journey in this heart-pounding tale of survival, temptation, and the horrors that lurk within.
*A full list of trigger warnings are available on the author’s website.
For decades, she has eluded law enforcement, leaving a trail of death in her wake. Once again on the run, this time assuming the identity of horror novelist Katherine Bishop, she settles into rural southeast Texas, where she lures ghostwriter Arianta Collins to her new lair of hell.
Having only three months for Arianta to write her new book and then satisfy her insatiable cravings, things quickly spiral out of control as Katherine's heart grows bigger than her stomach, blurring the lines between predator and prey.
Will Katherine be able to battle her internal moral compass and the challenges that arise, or will her reign of terror finally come to an end, not at the hands of the authorities, but by those closest to her?
"The Taste of Women" is a disturbing and chilling horror novel that explores the depths of human depravity and the complexities of morality. Follow Katherine's dark journey in this heart-pounding tale of survival, temptation, and the horrors that lurk within.
*A full list of trigger warnings are available on the author’s website.
247 pages, Paperback
Published August 26, 2023
27 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
About the author
Cyan LeBlanc
27 books50 followersCyan LeBlanc, a sapphic writer, has been writing since around 2008, beginning with fanfiction. They have entered the world of lesfic and are excited to share their upcoming works with women-loving-women fans. Cyan is a multi-genre writer who specializes in Sapphic characters in romance, horror, and thrillers.
Cyan is originally from California and now lives in Denver, Colorado, where they work as a florist during the day and as a Sapphic writer at night.
Cyan is originally from California and now lives in Denver, Colorado, where they work as a florist during the day and as a Sapphic writer at night.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 4, 2024
THE TASTE OF WOMEN [2023] By Cyan DeBlanc
My Review 2.0 Stars
This happened to be the tenth novel I read last month, and it had been purchased with the notion that it would be an appropriate representation of the queer horror genre. I have been trying to select a book now and again from the reading lists that the curator has generously made available to members of the Eerie Inklings Book Club. I will not be asking her if this is a good one to add to her accepted reading list.
So, let’s talk about this novel by Cyan DeBlanc. First, I purchased it prior to checking customer reviews on Amazon or Goodreads, and I rated the novel with no outside influence so to speak. We join the First-Person Narrator and protagonist of the novel five years into her false identity of author Katherine Bishop. Valerie had found it prudent to flee New Orleans because a Detective Brody had begun “sniffing a little too close to home”. Valerie relates that it was a cakewalk to steal the writer’s identity and make off with her identification, proceeds in the bank, and her vehicle. In an effort to throw Brody off her trail, Valerie AKA “Katherine” lands on a ranch in the middle of Nowhere, Texas.
It was kismet really, her stopping off the road for gas and overhearing an old man talking about his inability to sell his farm. “Hank” tells her about his place, and she follows him to his farm. Valerie takes a precursory look around and dispatches the old man with a tire iron. She finds an unexpected prize when she meets the hefty female farmhand who says little but does much. Breana, who had worked for Hank, makes a smooth transition to helping Valerie with any chore that pops up. Naturally her chores involve the procurement and management of “Katherine Bishop’s” host of ghostwriters that arrive and go, but not without some “blips” that our serial murderer Valerie could have done without.
Valerie was well into her false identity of Katherine Bishop the author of horror stories. She mentions the need to continue publishing in order to keep the illusion alive which means she must recruit the help of fitting ghostwriters. This had proved to be effective as Valerie explains in the narrative that she had been “using her killings as inspiration for Katherine’s horror genre”. The same plan held true in “Nowhere, Texas”. It may be an appropriate time to remind potential readers that Valerie is not only a murderer with an impressive body count, but also a practicing cannibal. It is evident from the book’s title that the murderer is a lesbian who likes the taste of her female victims in a literal matter of speaking. Valerie does not profess to be practicing any type of ritualistic cannibalism if the reader considers only her ruminations about her beliefs in its benefits. She attributes her high energy level and physicality to her eating habits, and the narrative suggests that it was a gradual observation over time. Valerie was quite feisty for her true age; I’ll give her that.
In short, the main character with first person POV is “Katherine” AKA Valerie who is a serial killer of women and a devout cannibal. She is a detached cold-blooded psychopath who blames her lack of empathy on losing her first love. Yes, there is a brief mention of she and her lover being abducted by a group of cannibals and being forced to literally eat her lover piece by piece. I will readily acknowledge that an experience such as that would likely lead to a padded room. But not a path of destruction throughout the country luring innocent women, toying with them sadistically sexually, and then meting out a torturous pattern of imprisonment until she feels it's time for them to die.
In describing the main character, the author left out sadistic psychopath. It would be a relief if our “Katherine” AKA Valerie abducted a woman for her ghostwriter, and then gave her a lethal injection or a kill shot from a gun, then dressed her out for meat. My main criticism is that Valerie’s pathology is more psychotic sadistic predator than it is a serial killer who murders her victims to procure their flesh for consumption. Time and again she toyed with her victims, enjoyed drugging them so that she could sadistically sexually hurt them and more often than not take a bite out of them somewhere during sex.
The arrival of Arianta (new ghostwriter) was the spitting image of her lost love. Right. There may be some spoilers already in this review (although most of this is only my opinion or critique). I will not spoil the narrative after Arianta arrives in Valerie’s life. Nor will I disclose the maybe surprise ending to the book.
Frankly I found little to praise in this work by DeBlanc. I liked the Cover Art. I find myself in the Unpopular Opinion Zone. The novel was originally released as a novella by DeBlanc. In any case the book was released in 2023. The novel has not been out a year yet. Amazon has only 44 global ratings, but an average of 4.2. Goodreads is sporting 94 ratings with a respective average of 4.0. Man, I can’t see it.
Should I say it is me, and not the book? I COULD say that. But I do not believe it. You be the judge. This dark sadistic tale is quite reasonably priced. I would not recommend it which is implicit by my review.
My Review 2.0 Stars
This happened to be the tenth novel I read last month, and it had been purchased with the notion that it would be an appropriate representation of the queer horror genre. I have been trying to select a book now and again from the reading lists that the curator has generously made available to members of the Eerie Inklings Book Club. I will not be asking her if this is a good one to add to her accepted reading list.
So, let’s talk about this novel by Cyan DeBlanc. First, I purchased it prior to checking customer reviews on Amazon or Goodreads, and I rated the novel with no outside influence so to speak. We join the First-Person Narrator and protagonist of the novel five years into her false identity of author Katherine Bishop. Valerie had found it prudent to flee New Orleans because a Detective Brody had begun “sniffing a little too close to home”. Valerie relates that it was a cakewalk to steal the writer’s identity and make off with her identification, proceeds in the bank, and her vehicle. In an effort to throw Brody off her trail, Valerie AKA “Katherine” lands on a ranch in the middle of Nowhere, Texas.
It was kismet really, her stopping off the road for gas and overhearing an old man talking about his inability to sell his farm. “Hank” tells her about his place, and she follows him to his farm. Valerie takes a precursory look around and dispatches the old man with a tire iron. She finds an unexpected prize when she meets the hefty female farmhand who says little but does much. Breana, who had worked for Hank, makes a smooth transition to helping Valerie with any chore that pops up. Naturally her chores involve the procurement and management of “Katherine Bishop’s” host of ghostwriters that arrive and go, but not without some “blips” that our serial murderer Valerie could have done without.
Valerie was well into her false identity of Katherine Bishop the author of horror stories. She mentions the need to continue publishing in order to keep the illusion alive which means she must recruit the help of fitting ghostwriters. This had proved to be effective as Valerie explains in the narrative that she had been “using her killings as inspiration for Katherine’s horror genre”. The same plan held true in “Nowhere, Texas”. It may be an appropriate time to remind potential readers that Valerie is not only a murderer with an impressive body count, but also a practicing cannibal. It is evident from the book’s title that the murderer is a lesbian who likes the taste of her female victims in a literal matter of speaking. Valerie does not profess to be practicing any type of ritualistic cannibalism if the reader considers only her ruminations about her beliefs in its benefits. She attributes her high energy level and physicality to her eating habits, and the narrative suggests that it was a gradual observation over time. Valerie was quite feisty for her true age; I’ll give her that.
In short, the main character with first person POV is “Katherine” AKA Valerie who is a serial killer of women and a devout cannibal. She is a detached cold-blooded psychopath who blames her lack of empathy on losing her first love. Yes, there is a brief mention of she and her lover being abducted by a group of cannibals and being forced to literally eat her lover piece by piece. I will readily acknowledge that an experience such as that would likely lead to a padded room. But not a path of destruction throughout the country luring innocent women, toying with them sadistically sexually, and then meting out a torturous pattern of imprisonment until she feels it's time for them to die.
In describing the main character, the author left out sadistic psychopath. It would be a relief if our “Katherine” AKA Valerie abducted a woman for her ghostwriter, and then gave her a lethal injection or a kill shot from a gun, then dressed her out for meat. My main criticism is that Valerie’s pathology is more psychotic sadistic predator than it is a serial killer who murders her victims to procure their flesh for consumption. Time and again she toyed with her victims, enjoyed drugging them so that she could sadistically sexually hurt them and more often than not take a bite out of them somewhere during sex.
The arrival of Arianta (new ghostwriter) was the spitting image of her lost love. Right. There may be some spoilers already in this review (although most of this is only my opinion or critique). I will not spoil the narrative after Arianta arrives in Valerie’s life. Nor will I disclose the maybe surprise ending to the book.
Frankly I found little to praise in this work by DeBlanc. I liked the Cover Art. I find myself in the Unpopular Opinion Zone. The novel was originally released as a novella by DeBlanc. In any case the book was released in 2023. The novel has not been out a year yet. Amazon has only 44 global ratings, but an average of 4.2. Goodreads is sporting 94 ratings with a respective average of 4.0. Man, I can’t see it.
Should I say it is me, and not the book? I COULD say that. But I do not believe it. You be the judge. This dark sadistic tale is quite reasonably priced. I would not recommend it which is implicit by my review.
September 5, 2023
Having read "Dying to Meat You" I thought I was well prepared for Katherine's perspective and a fuller plot. Foolish thought - LeBlanc ramped up the suspense and gore in a storyline that is enticingly horrifying. Seeking answers to many questions I was hooked.
Katherine is a complex woman. What set her on this twisted path? There are moments of humanity but those are swiftly dismissed as if she cannot live with that side of herself. Breana disgusted me, I tried but in the long run could find no redeeming factors. Regardless of the mounting pile of victims (some innocent - some not so much) Katherine continued to intrigue me. Then there's Arianta, unwilling or complicit - the connection made brings a wrinkle in Katherine's thinking. Is a sick "love" involved?
LeBlanc's chilling tale of horror, clinical descriptions, drug induced orgies, depraved thinking/behavior and taste for flesh pulled me along. The ending shocked, leaving me drained and red-eyed having read through the night.
Please be aware that this book is not for the timid or squeamish but an excellent read for anyone interested in twisted tales of depravity and bloody horror.
Katherine is a complex woman. What set her on this twisted path? There are moments of humanity but those are swiftly dismissed as if she cannot live with that side of herself. Breana disgusted me, I tried but in the long run could find no redeeming factors. Regardless of the mounting pile of victims (some innocent - some not so much) Katherine continued to intrigue me. Then there's Arianta, unwilling or complicit - the connection made brings a wrinkle in Katherine's thinking. Is a sick "love" involved?
LeBlanc's chilling tale of horror, clinical descriptions, drug induced orgies, depraved thinking/behavior and taste for flesh pulled me along. The ending shocked, leaving me drained and red-eyed having read through the night.
Please be aware that this book is not for the timid or squeamish but an excellent read for anyone interested in twisted tales of depravity and bloody horror.
July 16, 2023
Well. What an interesting read... The Taste Of Woman was brilliant, I couldn't put it down, even when some of the parts were a bit out there with the whole cannibalism aspect I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
The biggest question I had throughout the book was will she get caught? This book is dark and spicy in a messed-up way with all the blood and gore. This book is a little out there but, wow, such a great read. It's certainly not for the faint-hearted and I wouldn't recommend it for everyone but I enjoyed it.
⚠️A full list of trigger warnings are available on the author’s website.⚠️
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
The biggest question I had throughout the book was will she get caught? This book is dark and spicy in a messed-up way with all the blood and gore. This book is a little out there but, wow, such a great read. It's certainly not for the faint-hearted and I wouldn't recommend it for everyone but I enjoyed it.
⚠️A full list of trigger warnings are available on the author’s website.⚠️
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
September 9, 2023
5 stars. Hannibal…but make it sapphic. This is an extended full length novel of the novella Dying to Meat You and it was awesome! This was so intense and disturbing and a lot of the kill scenes had me shook (death by vibrator and that’s all I’m saying about that) like this is so gritty and gruesome as hell and pretty much everything I love in a horror story. It’s also well written, well paced, and will keep you on your toes with all its twists and turns. If you like gore and characters who are terrible humans pick this up because it was wild from beginning to end.
Katherine is a serial killer and my goodness does the author not shy away from her urges and need to kill and feed. She’s been getting away with it until she meets Arianta who comes to work for her under the guise of being her ghostwriter and then shit hits the fan as things spiral out of control. I can’t emphasize enough how good this book was. I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone because it is extremely dark and heavy but if you’re a fan of horror and gore, morally gray characters, and fucked up situations then this would be perfect for you.
I usually don’t include TWs but I will here but make sure to check the author's website for a more extensive list:
Katherine is a serial killer and my goodness does the author not shy away from her urges and need to kill and feed. She’s been getting away with it until she meets Arianta who comes to work for her under the guise of being her ghostwriter and then shit hits the fan as things spiral out of control. I can’t emphasize enough how good this book was. I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone because it is extremely dark and heavy but if you’re a fan of horror and gore, morally gray characters, and fucked up situations then this would be perfect for you.
I usually don’t include TWs but I will here but make sure to check the author's website for a more extensive list:
August 17, 2023
This was a chilling little story, full of just the right mix of horror, gore, sex and some dark humour!
October 27, 2023
Chaotic and unhinged. I thought I would be more generous with my rating for the first half of the book, but the second half slowly lost me. I respect making the serial killer/cannibal a genuinely unlikeable and sadistic person, but it makes it that much more unbelievable that so many women would fall for her and even protect her after knowing the whole truth. Some of the deaths also just made me really mad, to be honest. What threw me off the most is the relationship between Katherine and Arianta, which is supposed to be the romance(??) of the book, but I struggled to see why either of them would actually develop feelings for one another. All of their interactions amount to either Katherine absolutely terrorizing Arianta or aggressively flirting with her, and we're basically just TOLD they fell in love. Which also made no sense to me considering Katherine's later decisions.
However, there are multiple double fisting scenes, so there's that.
However, there are multiple double fisting scenes, so there's that.
November 16, 2023
Reading this was a mistake.
October 19, 2023
Damn, that was a read an a half.
I don't usually read these kinds of books. I like it light, happy and bubbly so the first chapter shocked the hell out of me. Even though the trigger warnings are stacked one on top of the other, I kept reading because it surprised me at every turn. What I like is often formulaic and I can predict everything that's going to happen but this book? NO. no. NOOOO. It was a wonderful, chaotic mess and I loved it.
This book has successfully beaten my ADHD because I could not put it down. I had a busy day yesterday but when I finally had time, I banged it out in one go. And it. was. marvelous.
I don't usually read these kinds of books. I like it light, happy and bubbly so the first chapter shocked the hell out of me. Even though the trigger warnings are stacked one on top of the other, I kept reading because it surprised me at every turn. What I like is often formulaic and I can predict everything that's going to happen but this book? NO. no. NOOOO. It was a wonderful, chaotic mess and I loved it.
This book has successfully beaten my ADHD because I could not put it down. I had a busy day yesterday but when I finally had time, I banged it out in one go. And it. was. marvelous.
September 15, 2023
Great Book!
After having read Cyan LeBlanc’s short story, “Dying to Meat You”, I felt it was good enough to read LeBlanc’s novel “The Taste of Women”. I have rated it 5 stars.
The main character, Valerie Hadley, takes on several identities throughout the book. I won’t reveal why because that would be a spoiler, and I don’t do spoilers. She is a lesbian who has a unique way of making love to women.
Read this book to find out more!
After having read Cyan LeBlanc’s short story, “Dying to Meat You”, I felt it was good enough to read LeBlanc’s novel “The Taste of Women”. I have rated it 5 stars.
The main character, Valerie Hadley, takes on several identities throughout the book. I won’t reveal why because that would be a spoiler, and I don’t do spoilers. She is a lesbian who has a unique way of making love to women.
Read this book to find out more!
August 15, 2023
I’m not quite sure what to put here, I’m still reeling from the rollercoaster that is this book lol.
A totally crazy story, full of triggers (lucky I have none), it’s dark, tongue in cheek humour (which did make me chuckle out loud), and has some bonkers sizzling action.
Brilliantly written, I’ve never read anything like it before. It’s full of twists and turns, you really won’t be disappointed. Absolutely loved it lol.
A totally crazy story, full of triggers (lucky I have none), it’s dark, tongue in cheek humour (which did make me chuckle out loud), and has some bonkers sizzling action.
Brilliantly written, I’ve never read anything like it before. It’s full of twists and turns, you really won’t be disappointed. Absolutely loved it lol.
September 3, 2024
wow…what a book!!! the ending was a little unsatisfying though honestly … katherine was already in the end of her life when writing her book and getting arianta so i get it. but holy shit is she fucking crazy 😭 like girl…
i loved this book!!!
i loved this book!!!
August 16, 2023
I enjoyed the journey. The switching of the main characters name became a bit confusing at times. I was able to back track and find my way. I was impressed with the complexity of the plot. I would recommend the book to fellow horror fans.
September 6, 2024
Cyan had my attention when I realized this story was about a lesbian cannibal.
This story is a blast from start to finish. I truly did not know where the story would take me, and I was along for the ride. Also... great sex scenes... and now I want a nice, rare steak.
This story is a blast from start to finish. I truly did not know where the story would take me, and I was along for the ride. Also... great sex scenes... and now I want a nice, rare steak.
June 30, 2025
Spicy, but good. The sex scenes were portrayed in a good way. The backstory for Valerie, was sad, and made you want to see her succeed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2023
This was my first time reading this author’s work and I am definitely a fan! The writing was quite impressive, and the storytelling was top tier. It honestly read like a horror movie in my head, which personally is the type of reading experience I look for but don’t often find.
I am not an avid horror reader—I mostly read dark romance, but I don’t really have any triggers. That’s why I’m typically open to read pretty much any level of darkness or gore..and when I saw that this was marketed as erotic horror, I was immediately intrigued, and it delivered!
This is a sapphic, erotic horror story about a cannibalistic serial killer posing as a indie horror author, whose novels are actually retellings of her own killings. You learn what lead her to living this way, constantly on the run, under multiple identities, and how it has changed every aspect of her life—essentially controlling it entirely.
There is no lack of gore, depravity, and masochism..so if those are at all too much for you, then you may want to pass on this one. But if you’re a weirdo like me and just have to know..then dive in head first!
Thank you to the author for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am not an avid horror reader—I mostly read dark romance, but I don’t really have any triggers. That’s why I’m typically open to read pretty much any level of darkness or gore..and when I saw that this was marketed as erotic horror, I was immediately intrigued, and it delivered!
This is a sapphic, erotic horror story about a cannibalistic serial killer posing as a indie horror author, whose novels are actually retellings of her own killings. You learn what lead her to living this way, constantly on the run, under multiple identities, and how it has changed every aspect of her life—essentially controlling it entirely.
There is no lack of gore, depravity, and masochism..so if those are at all too much for you, then you may want to pass on this one. But if you’re a weirdo like me and just have to know..then dive in head first!
Thank you to the author for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2023
Not only was the storyline intriguing, but the characters were fascinating. I started and finished it in one day. Definitely will look forward to more from this author in the future.
There was one minor grammatical error at the end of chapter 17 and a surname misnaming in the epilogue. Otherwise, clean editing as well.
This was my first venture into the horror genre. It was fantastic. It definitely did not disappoint. It was the perfect blend of horror and gore, without crossing my personal line of “too much”.
My overall satisfaction gives this book and author 5 stars.
There was one minor grammatical error at the end of chapter 17 and a surname misnaming in the epilogue. Otherwise, clean editing as well.
This was my first venture into the horror genre. It was fantastic. It definitely did not disappoint. It was the perfect blend of horror and gore, without crossing my personal line of “too much”.
My overall satisfaction gives this book and author 5 stars.
August 7, 2023
Holy smokes! This was a crazy book to read. First off I couldn’t put it down. This isn’t the type of book I’ve ever read or had the internet in reading. But it was amazing! Some stuff seem a little crazy, but it worked! This may have been the first erotic horror I’ve read, but it will not be the last. The other thing I loved was what you couldn’t tell what was gonna happen. The ending blew my mind!
August 30, 2023
I don't typically read a lot of horror and a sapphic horror novel was pretty new to me. Once I started reading I couldn't wait to find out how it would end. The characters were well developed and I found myself sympathizing with the killer even though I didn't condone her actions. I appreciated the humor thrown in, as well.
I'm sure there are things going on in the world I could never imagine, so I had no problem suspending my disbelief. If you like horror with a touch of humor, I recommend this one.
I'm sure there are things going on in the world I could never imagine, so I had no problem suspending my disbelief. If you like horror with a touch of humor, I recommend this one.
November 15, 2023
Holy shit... That is something messed up taste. The pace was really good though. Kept me intrigued.
July 8, 2023
Rating 4.5, so rounding up.
I mean, damn. This was a trip to read in the best possible way. The Taste of Women is the first sapphic horror I’ve read that was on the more extreme side, and I was not disappointed. It didn’t take long for me to get sucked in. Right from the start, action happens. The author really has a handle on the pacing, so it never lost me. If a book is too slow, I tend to wander off to something else, but this was perfect. The details, especially the gore, are wonderfully written, even down to the best way to cook different cuts of “meat.” I enjoyed never really knowing what the MC was going to do. Every time I thought I knew, she went in a different direction. The plot wasn’t predictable, especially the ending. Toward the end, the author helps amplify the chaos by switching the MC's false names, and at first, I thought it was a typo, but then I quickly realized it wasn’t. I could see some readers having an issue with that, but I feel like it really added to the MCs spiral. I also appreciate that the author clearly lists the trigger warnings on the author's website because this book isn’t for everyone.
What didn’t work for me was just a couple of small things. I don’t feel like the blurb really touches the totality of the book, but honestly, I’m not sure how it could be written without giving away spoilers. I also would have liked to know more about the detective chasing her down and the history there.
Overall, I’d recommend this book if the genre is your thing. You won’t be disappointed.
I mean, damn. This was a trip to read in the best possible way. The Taste of Women is the first sapphic horror I’ve read that was on the more extreme side, and I was not disappointed. It didn’t take long for me to get sucked in. Right from the start, action happens. The author really has a handle on the pacing, so it never lost me. If a book is too slow, I tend to wander off to something else, but this was perfect. The details, especially the gore, are wonderfully written, even down to the best way to cook different cuts of “meat.” I enjoyed never really knowing what the MC was going to do. Every time I thought I knew, she went in a different direction. The plot wasn’t predictable, especially the ending. Toward the end, the author helps amplify the chaos by switching the MC's false names, and at first, I thought it was a typo, but then I quickly realized it wasn’t. I could see some readers having an issue with that, but I feel like it really added to the MCs spiral. I also appreciate that the author clearly lists the trigger warnings on the author's website because this book isn’t for everyone.
What didn’t work for me was just a couple of small things. I don’t feel like the blurb really touches the totality of the book, but honestly, I’m not sure how it could be written without giving away spoilers. I also would have liked to know more about the detective chasing her down and the history there.
Overall, I’d recommend this book if the genre is your thing. You won’t be disappointed.
May 24, 2024
🥩🥩🥩🥩🥩/5
My first ever sapphic horror read and whoa did this one deliver! I’m looking for more so please recommend if you have any suggestions! I legit need it for research purposes & no, not like how your dad needs it for “research” either…ya lil nasties.
Quick Synopsis:
Acclaimed horror novelist Katherine moves to the country to focus on writing. She has a lot of ideas and a seemingly boundless experiences with the subject of her next book on female cannibalism. So she hires a ghostwriter to help her get her musings down on the sheets (of paper, right??). That ghostwriter doesn’t work out, let’s try another one. But why do they all have to be lesbians, won’t be missed, and agree to no phones/internet? And who keeps this freezer stocked with meat so well?!
So this was a wild ride from start to finish, and a journey of discovery for me. I was taking notes! Ok so first off, according to Cyan LeBlanc…lesbians be getting it IN. Like literally, with a *checks notes* knuckle. Eschew your prior stereotypes of ladies who munch, it’s not all OITNB marathons and UHauls. The spice in this was top tier, but then they…well…let’s just say Katherine took eating out to a whole new level. Second off, apparently man meat tastes horrible. Fatty, stringy, just bad eats. That hurt my feelings a little I won’t lie, but hey if that stops me from being eaten then I’ll take that as a win. Third, I enjoyed feeling like another perspective on horror was being represented that I had not witnessed before. So I enjoyed the ride, plus I learned SO many words/phrases I will have to try working into my next project. Namely: Folds, center, rosebud, and triple knuckle twists with a double fist. Highly recommend!
My first ever sapphic horror read and whoa did this one deliver! I’m looking for more so please recommend if you have any suggestions! I legit need it for research purposes & no, not like how your dad needs it for “research” either…ya lil nasties.
Quick Synopsis:
Acclaimed horror novelist Katherine moves to the country to focus on writing. She has a lot of ideas and a seemingly boundless experiences with the subject of her next book on female cannibalism. So she hires a ghostwriter to help her get her musings down on the sheets (of paper, right??). That ghostwriter doesn’t work out, let’s try another one. But why do they all have to be lesbians, won’t be missed, and agree to no phones/internet? And who keeps this freezer stocked with meat so well?!
So this was a wild ride from start to finish, and a journey of discovery for me. I was taking notes! Ok so first off, according to Cyan LeBlanc…lesbians be getting it IN. Like literally, with a *checks notes* knuckle. Eschew your prior stereotypes of ladies who munch, it’s not all OITNB marathons and UHauls. The spice in this was top tier, but then they…well…let’s just say Katherine took eating out to a whole new level. Second off, apparently man meat tastes horrible. Fatty, stringy, just bad eats. That hurt my feelings a little I won’t lie, but hey if that stops me from being eaten then I’ll take that as a win. Third, I enjoyed feeling like another perspective on horror was being represented that I had not witnessed before. So I enjoyed the ride, plus I learned SO many words/phrases I will have to try working into my next project. Namely: Folds, center, rosebud, and triple knuckle twists with a double fist. Highly recommend!
September 18, 2023
The Taste of Women by Cyan LeBlanc
4.5/5 ⭐️
Wow. I adored this book. Everything from its gripping storyline, clever plot twists and beautifully created characters.
LeBlanc's storytelling prowess shines brightly throughout the book. The narrative is skillfully woven, drawing readers into a world filled with complex characters and intricate yet troublesome relationships. The story centres around themes of love, desire, and identity, and is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.
Cyan masterfully subverts expectations at pivotal moments, leaving readers in awe. These twists aren't just there for shock value; they serve to deepen the characters, challenge their beliefs, and provoke profound questions about the human experience. Each twist is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
As the plot unfolds, the intricately interwoven lives keep readers guessing about their true intentions and motivations. This web of deception and revelation adds layers of depth to the story and makes it difficult to put the book down.
If you're looking for a literary journey that will both captivate and challenge you, this book is well worth a read.
4.5/5 ⭐️
Wow. I adored this book. Everything from its gripping storyline, clever plot twists and beautifully created characters.
LeBlanc's storytelling prowess shines brightly throughout the book. The narrative is skillfully woven, drawing readers into a world filled with complex characters and intricate yet troublesome relationships. The story centres around themes of love, desire, and identity, and is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.
Cyan masterfully subverts expectations at pivotal moments, leaving readers in awe. These twists aren't just there for shock value; they serve to deepen the characters, challenge their beliefs, and provoke profound questions about the human experience. Each twist is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
As the plot unfolds, the intricately interwoven lives keep readers guessing about their true intentions and motivations. This web of deception and revelation adds layers of depth to the story and makes it difficult to put the book down.
If you're looking for a literary journey that will both captivate and challenge you, this book is well worth a read.
September 25, 2024
Please do not take this 4 star rating as an invitation to eat me for lunch. Literally.
I took a star away for the fact that the fmc (the one who was supposed to be sane) was annoying me and for the fact that the other fmc Valerie was fucking 60 years old. For that amount of sex scenes at least make her 40 for fucks sake.
But (and I'm surprised myself to say this) I actually think that was a good read???
I think its no surprise to say that Valerie was an absolute psychopath. But also what do you expect from someone who was forced to eat their girlfriend (again, literally), didn't go to therapy, tried to live vegan but realized that cannibalism gets you addicted so the own fingers gets chopped off and then has to live for the rest of their 60-something years with k!lling and eating (LITERALLY) other women.
What's the moral of the story?
GO TO THERPAY.
Oh and also, if you get a ghostwriter job for a horror novel by an old(er) lesbian who lives on a farm in the middle of nowhere, don't go. That's stupid.
I took a star away for the fact that the fmc (the one who was supposed to be sane) was annoying me and for the fact that the other fmc Valerie was fucking 60 years old. For that amount of sex scenes at least make her 40 for fucks sake.
But (and I'm surprised myself to say this) I actually think that was a good read???
I think its no surprise to say that Valerie was an absolute psychopath. But also what do you expect from someone who was forced to eat their girlfriend (again, literally), didn't go to therapy, tried to live vegan but realized that cannibalism gets you addicted so the own fingers gets chopped off and then has to live for the rest of their 60-something years with k!lling and eating (LITERALLY) other women.
What's the moral of the story?
GO TO THERPAY.
Oh and also, if you get a ghostwriter job for a horror novel by an old(er) lesbian who lives on a farm in the middle of nowhere, don't go. That's stupid.
October 9, 2023
This is an interesting book to write a review. On one hand, I enjoyed the book and wanted to see what happens to the protagonist. On the other hand, I was repulsed by the awful things she did. It’s one of those books you have to keep telling yourself, “It’s not real.” So please know what you are getting into before you read this book. It’s not for everyone. If you know what you are getting into and can accept that, then I think you will enjoy it. The main character is not just a mindless killer. She has some deep seated issues that have made her what she is. I felt sorry for her yet was not hoping for a happy ending for her too. The main thing I had a problem with this book was that I didn’t think the authorities were trying very hard to find people who go missing in this novel to the point it defied belief. I did like the book and will read other titles from Cyan LeBlanc.
August 27, 2023
Wow, what a book this journey was. I admit I only picked it up purely out of morbid curiosity...and morbid it was. But also exciting and multifaceted. Never thought I'd find myself sympathising with a cannibal, but there I was, especially after her reasons for being that way came to light.
I kinda wished the ending had been a happy one but that's just me as a die-hard romance reader. And obviously, this is a horror so it doesn't need to have a HEA. ...Maybe they reunited in hell?
All in all, this was a great fun (and also truly horrible at times!) read that I devoured all in one sitting. Definitely NOT for the faint of heart but if you're into gory horror and sapphic women, definitely pick this one up!
I kinda wished the ending had been a happy one but that's just me as a die-hard romance reader. And obviously, this is a horror so it doesn't need to have a HEA. ...Maybe they reunited in hell?
All in all, this was a great fun (and also truly horrible at times!) read that I devoured all in one sitting. Definitely NOT for the faint of heart but if you're into gory horror and sapphic women, definitely pick this one up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
Well, this is definitely unlike anything I’ve read before… cannibalism, murder, and mayhem but loads of black humour and psychological insights. The lead character is a nasty, evil, heartless, woman and yet I felt sympathy and empathy and wondered how the author would work through the plot.
No spoilers here but the ending is satisfying, the narrative is moving and shocking, the characters are a wide variety of life’s rich tapestry and there were a few occasions when I was thinking OMG she went there. There’s a lot happening in this story for sure.
Be careful if you pick this up and check the trigger warnings. There’s a liberal dose of horror and gore but it’s wrapped in a story of love, loss, and madness.
No spoilers here but the ending is satisfying, the narrative is moving and shocking, the characters are a wide variety of life’s rich tapestry and there were a few occasions when I was thinking OMG she went there. There’s a lot happening in this story for sure.
Be careful if you pick this up and check the trigger warnings. There’s a liberal dose of horror and gore but it’s wrapped in a story of love, loss, and madness.
July 12, 2023
This damned book. I never thought cannibal erotica would get me hot under the collar. But hey, I'm always learning new things about myself.
Overall, the story was very well-plotted and paced. The horror was on flippen point, each death scene was masterful! I especially like the use of typical horror tropes but in a subtle way.
This is easily my favorite sapphic horror I've read! I cannot wait to read more from Cyan, and I can't recommend this book enough!
Overall rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 5/5
Prose: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received this as an ARC and am willingly leaving this review.
Overall, the story was very well-plotted and paced. The horror was on flippen point, each death scene was masterful! I especially like the use of typical horror tropes but in a subtle way.
This is easily my favorite sapphic horror I've read! I cannot wait to read more from Cyan, and I can't recommend this book enough!
Overall rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 5/5
Prose: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received this as an ARC and am willingly leaving this review.
October 30, 2025
CW: torture, cannibalism
This is one of the more ridiculous books I've read this year. The plot is repetitive and requires a suspension of disbelief that I just can't reach. The writing is mediocre at best. The character motivations are unclear or inconsistent (or both). I'm honestly a little shocked at how many five star reviews there are. Hey, I'm glad that y'all liked it. Not that I disliked it, exactly. I actually had a good time, cackling to myself and muttering "this is so goddamn stupid" to myself. I enjoyed this the way that I enjoy Troll 2. It isn't scary, and it isn't good, but it's fun.
It could have stayed a silly, fun gorefest, and I probably would've given it a higher rating. But the author attempted some level of realism with a romance subplot and a tragic backstory for the main character. Neither of these landed for me. The romance felt forced, the tragic backstory felt detached from the rest of the story's tone, and they both sucked the fun out of book for me.
This isn't a terrible book, but it isn't very good either. And while it starts out fun, it shoots itself in the foot by trying to make itself more serious than it is. Pick it up if it's free and if you're bored, but there are probably other grindhouse lesbian gore books that would make a bigger impact.
This is one of the more ridiculous books I've read this year. The plot is repetitive and requires a suspension of disbelief that I just can't reach. The writing is mediocre at best. The character motivations are unclear or inconsistent (or both). I'm honestly a little shocked at how many five star reviews there are. Hey, I'm glad that y'all liked it. Not that I disliked it, exactly. I actually had a good time, cackling to myself and muttering "this is so goddamn stupid" to myself. I enjoyed this the way that I enjoy Troll 2. It isn't scary, and it isn't good, but it's fun.
It could have stayed a silly, fun gorefest, and I probably would've given it a higher rating. But the author attempted some level of realism with a romance subplot and a tragic backstory for the main character. Neither of these landed for me. The romance felt forced, the tragic backstory felt detached from the rest of the story's tone, and they both sucked the fun out of book for me.
This isn't a terrible book, but it isn't very good either. And while it starts out fun, it shoots itself in the foot by trying to make itself more serious than it is. Pick it up if it's free and if you're bored, but there are probably other grindhouse lesbian gore books that would make a bigger impact.
September 11, 2023
ok ok ok. let me catch my breath. whew. What a ride. This is horror with a capital H . Let me restate that...this is horror perfection with a captial H. Messy, mental characters committing murder is abundant with sex thrown in, in case your heart wasn't beating fast enough. I have longed for true horror to come to sapphic fiction. This one is extreme, fast, bloody, sexy, sick and everything I want in a horror novel. five stars, read it at your own risk. BTW, what's for dinner?
August 19, 2023
Wow! This book is intense …and by far one of the most interesting things I’ve read. The author is genuinely excited to be writing and it shows … there’s an aura of intrigue and love of the craft. This book is not for the faint of heart MANY TRIGGERS… but great spicy scenes! Great use of pacing as well 🩵
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews