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False Idols: A Dark College Romance
He’s going to make me pay.
My name is Nevaeh Santiago and for the past fifteen years my hometown has been a living hell. Bloom, Kansas is a quiet college town where nothing bad should ever happen, but it has a deadly secret.
The Reaper.
He’s a sadistic serial killer and no one is safe when he chooses his prey. When I was fifteen, I came face to face with evil when I witnessed one of his horrific murders. I survived that night and I’ve tried to heal, but it’s impossible when I put the boy the town loved away for that murder.
Beau Du Pont.
The town’s golden boy, the most perfect boy I’ve ever seen and the boy I never stopped loving.
I’m a freshman at college now, and it should be the best time of my life. But that’s when the day I prayed for and feared happens. The Reaper surfaces and proves Beau’s innocence. Now, the whole town hates me, and every last one of the students at Bloom State make it their mission to force me to leave. I’m determined to make it through, but that’s before Beau shows up. He’s different now, obsessed and hungry for revenge.
I took four years of his life and now he's going to take back what I stole from him.
But someone else is after me too—The Reaper.
I'm a girl fighting for her sanity and vengeance is coming fast for me, but who will take me apart first? The boy I loved or the devil himself?
False Idols is a slasher dark college romance and is a stand-alone novel. Please see author note for full TW list.
My name is Nevaeh Santiago and for the past fifteen years my hometown has been a living hell. Bloom, Kansas is a quiet college town where nothing bad should ever happen, but it has a deadly secret.
The Reaper.
He’s a sadistic serial killer and no one is safe when he chooses his prey. When I was fifteen, I came face to face with evil when I witnessed one of his horrific murders. I survived that night and I’ve tried to heal, but it’s impossible when I put the boy the town loved away for that murder.
Beau Du Pont.
The town’s golden boy, the most perfect boy I’ve ever seen and the boy I never stopped loving.
I’m a freshman at college now, and it should be the best time of my life. But that’s when the day I prayed for and feared happens. The Reaper surfaces and proves Beau’s innocence. Now, the whole town hates me, and every last one of the students at Bloom State make it their mission to force me to leave. I’m determined to make it through, but that’s before Beau shows up. He’s different now, obsessed and hungry for revenge.
I took four years of his life and now he's going to take back what I stole from him.
But someone else is after me too—The Reaper.
I'm a girl fighting for her sanity and vengeance is coming fast for me, but who will take me apart first? The boy I loved or the devil himself?
False Idols is a slasher dark college romance and is a stand-alone novel. Please see author note for full TW list.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2023
139 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Dahlia
5 books62 followersI write dark hearted romance and love every second of it. Every dark romance I pen is a story I'm dying to tell my wonderful readers. You can expect monsters here, obsessive heroes, and heroines who give right into the dark side and love every second of it. When I’m not writing, I’m probably thinking about writing or on my merry little way to over caffeinated. I hope you enjoy and love the books I write, because writing my books is my dream come true!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
October 20, 2023
Absolutely OBSESSED!
I always enjoy Darcy’s stories but this one BLEW MY MIND.
From the very beginning this story had me on the edge of my seat. It’s the perfect balance of spice and suspense/thrill.
Beau is perfection - if Damon Salvatore and Billy Loomis has a love child. And Nevaeh’s transformation throughout the story from good girl to fierce final girl had me cheering for her!
And trying to figure out who was the face behind The Reaper kept me on my toes until the reveal.
False Idols has quickly made It’s way into my top favorite books and I could read it again and again.
So grateful to have had the opportunity to be on the ARC Team for this. I’ll definitely be recommending it to all my dark romance girlies who love Scream/Slasher-inspired vibes ❤️
I always enjoy Darcy’s stories but this one BLEW MY MIND.
From the very beginning this story had me on the edge of my seat. It’s the perfect balance of spice and suspense/thrill.
Beau is perfection - if Damon Salvatore and Billy Loomis has a love child. And Nevaeh’s transformation throughout the story from good girl to fierce final girl had me cheering for her!
And trying to figure out who was the face behind The Reaper kept me on my toes until the reveal.
False Idols has quickly made It’s way into my top favorite books and I could read it again and again.
So grateful to have had the opportunity to be on the ARC Team for this. I’ll definitely be recommending it to all my dark romance girlies who love Scream/Slasher-inspired vibes ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
Content Warnings: sexual content, sexual violence, blood, murder, death, body horror, violence, mutilation, attempted suicide, kidnapping, coercion, sexual assault, blood play, breathe play, knife play, CNC, bondage, bullying, toxic relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, isolation, child physical abuse, child emotional/verbal abuse, and religious trauma.
***I received an ARC ahead of the October 21st, 2023 release***
OMG, if I wasn't already invested by the summary, the dedication for sure would have had me invested.
Okay so picture the setting of Scream two, but we get a falsely accused hottie [sorry Cotton...but Beau is perfection 🤌🏽] send to prison who's spent the past four years obsessing over the girl/woman who falsely accused him...obsessing and imagining how he'll make her pay.
Then we have Nevaeh, someone who's been in love with Beau since she first met him, and was devastated when she had to name him as a murderer. She's spent the past four years hating herself and regretting her decision to turn him in.
It was so easy to understand and relate to Nevaeh, someone who grew up in the grip of religion...always doing what she was told and what was right...but still having a parent that constantly made her feel like a failure and unclean...a parent who in fact is projecting their own flaws/failures onto their child. 😤
Darcy either has experience growing up in an a controlling religious' environment or she did her due diligence while researching for this book because damn...the religious guilt took me back to so many times I had as a new adult as I was trying to find myself and where I fit into the world.
I do feel like dark romance is definitely easier to understand/relate to when you've had trauma of some kind 😅...I know that the intro to Beau he was not nice...like that man is not morally grey...he's pitch black BUT it's easy to understand where he's coming from and the conflicting feelings he has towards Nevaeh. It's also easy to relate to Nevaeh and how she reacts to his aggressive/bullying behavior...and even responds to it.
I think it would be difficult/nearly impossible for someone who had a happy life and never experienced devastation/trauma to understand or see how books like this can be genuinely healing for some of us and how we can love and root for such "toxic" people.
Anyways...this book was AMAZING and I really hope we get more books set in this world...even knowing that would mean there would probably have to be more serial killers involved 😬
I cannot wait until this book releases so I can order a physical copy to annotate. 🥰
***I received an ARC ahead of the October 21st, 2023 release***
OMG, if I wasn't already invested by the summary, the dedication for sure would have had me invested.
Okay so picture the setting of Scream two, but we get a falsely accused hottie [sorry Cotton...but Beau is perfection 🤌🏽] send to prison who's spent the past four years obsessing over the girl/woman who falsely accused him...obsessing and imagining how he'll make her pay.
Then we have Nevaeh, someone who's been in love with Beau since she first met him, and was devastated when she had to name him as a murderer. She's spent the past four years hating herself and regretting her decision to turn him in.
It was so easy to understand and relate to Nevaeh, someone who grew up in the grip of religion...always doing what she was told and what was right...but still having a parent that constantly made her feel like a failure and unclean...a parent who in fact is projecting their own flaws/failures onto their child. 😤
Darcy either has experience growing up in an a controlling religious' environment or she did her due diligence while researching for this book because damn...the religious guilt took me back to so many times I had as a new adult as I was trying to find myself and where I fit into the world.
I do feel like dark romance is definitely easier to understand/relate to when you've had trauma of some kind 😅...I know that the intro to Beau he was not nice...like that man is not morally grey...he's pitch black BUT it's easy to understand where he's coming from and the conflicting feelings he has towards Nevaeh. It's also easy to relate to Nevaeh and how she reacts to his aggressive/bullying behavior...and even responds to it.
I think it would be difficult/nearly impossible for someone who had a happy life and never experienced devastation/trauma to understand or see how books like this can be genuinely healing for some of us and how we can love and root for such "toxic" people.
Anyways...this book was AMAZING and I really hope we get more books set in this world...even knowing that would mean there would probably have to be more serial killers involved 😬
I cannot wait until this book releases so I can order a physical copy to annotate. 🥰
October 19, 2023
HONEST ARC REVIEW - This Book gives serious Haunting Adeline Vibes. The writing style could use some work.
The introduction chapter for both characters were very Run On and they were told in the perspective of the character being aware that they were telling people about themselves.
2/10
The Smut? Pretty freaking good. I genuinely enjoyed the smut in this novel! I love the dark romance between Neveah and Beau. I will say his obsession with being attracted to her even after putting him in jail was a little confusing but i think the characters interactions throughout the book were interesting and kept me intrigued.
7/10
The violence was amazing. I was hooked in every scene. Dean vs Beau??? very very good.
6/10
This was overall a good book! I think the long run on sections in the beginning made it a bit hard to get started but i was glad i continued. An amazing ending. Total 180 in character morals and it was great.
The introduction chapter for both characters were very Run On and they were told in the perspective of the character being aware that they were telling people about themselves.
2/10
The Smut? Pretty freaking good. I genuinely enjoyed the smut in this novel! I love the dark romance between Neveah and Beau. I will say his obsession with being attracted to her even after putting him in jail was a little confusing but i think the characters interactions throughout the book were interesting and kept me intrigued.
7/10
The violence was amazing. I was hooked in every scene. Dean vs Beau??? very very good.
6/10
This was overall a good book! I think the long run on sections in the beginning made it a bit hard to get started but i was glad i continued. An amazing ending. Total 180 in character morals and it was great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2025
The main characters in this book act exactly like they're in a late '90s slasher – in other words, dumb. If this were the real world, they'd either be dead or in prison. But I guess that's the whole point, right?
Anyway, I'm rewatching Scream 2 for the millionth time tonight.
Anyway, I'm rewatching Scream 2 for the millionth time tonight.
October 20, 2023
3.5⭐️ Spicy and spooky might be my new favorite combo. 😏 This was a fun read and I throughly enjoyed it! I definitely got the 90s college horror movie vibes. I enjoyed the characters I thought they were fun and interesting and I loved their chemistry and tension. I definitely knew who the killer was and predicted a few of the twists but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book but some people might want it to be less predictable.
And I just have to share one of my favorite lines…
“I’m going to eat her 🐱 like it’s my last meal.” 🤣🤣🤣
And I just have to share one of my favorite lines…
“I’m going to eat her 🐱 like it’s my last meal.” 🤣🤣🤣
November 1, 2024
Solid 3. I read like the first couple hundred pages in a day, ate that shit UPPPPP. But it took me like 2 days to read the last hundred. At the end i even skimmed some parts that i didnt feel were super relevant and feel like i didnt miss out at all. So, yes i really liked it. Yes, its a solid 3 for me. Would i read again? Probably not. Did i love it for being a romantic thriller? Fu k yeah i did. Id be interested in reading other works from this authur and i think that says a good bit. I like their style :)
Also thinking about it, it says a lot too that this book has some religious trauma and drama and that i DIDNT STOP reading it even though it was more than i thought it might be. Sometimes thats a big deterrent for me, but im glad i gave this one a chance and it didnt feel like i had to "stick with it" or "push through" to get through it. Like it was captivating enough that regardless of the trigger, i wanted to read it and keep going 😌
Also thinking about it, it says a lot too that this book has some religious trauma and drama and that i DIDNT STOP reading it even though it was more than i thought it might be. Sometimes thats a big deterrent for me, but im glad i gave this one a chance and it didnt feel like i had to "stick with it" or "push through" to get through it. Like it was captivating enough that regardless of the trigger, i wanted to read it and keep going 😌
November 8, 2025
All Beau talked about was how he changed and wasn’t the same sweet boy he used to be and all Nevaeh talked about was how Beau was different from the boy she used to love but she still loved him. Way too much description on everything, the trees, the rocks, etc. from both characters and half the time, a perspective shift to the next chapter went over everything that happened in the last chapter from their pov before moving onto new content. So many of the decisions made I was like wtf. Yes I hate cringing for the female lead but I was cringing for every character. How many times can Beau say that he was different… he was a killer now, prison changed him. OKAY WE GET IT. But was it as bad as God of Pain… no lol
February 1, 2024
3.25 stars
I surprisingly enjoyed this; however, I predicted the reaper very early on and that was disappointing. The twists were also fairly predictable, but the romance between Beau and Nevaeh made up for it. they had such an intense chemistry, they were so toxic and fucked up yet perfect together. I especially loved Beau's unwavering obsession with Nevaeh, even after what she did. That was definitely the best part.
Overall not bad. Could this have been better? Definitely but it was a good one time read. I do think the book was way too long. There were so many unnecessary parts that could’ve been cut. Other than that this was a fun read.
I surprisingly enjoyed this; however, I predicted the reaper very early on and that was disappointing. The twists were also fairly predictable, but the romance between Beau and Nevaeh made up for it. they had such an intense chemistry, they were so toxic and fucked up yet perfect together. I especially loved Beau's unwavering obsession with Nevaeh, even after what she did. That was definitely the best part.
Overall not bad. Could this have been better? Definitely but it was a good one time read. I do think the book was way too long. There were so many unnecessary parts that could’ve been cut. Other than that this was a fun read.
May 22, 2025
This novel unmistakably falls into the category of dark romance, gripping me with its intense angst that kept me perched on the edge of my seat throughout the entire journey. The storyline intricately weaves elements of a deep psychological thriller, which was a delightful surprise for me as I navigated its twists and turns. Typically, I’m not a fan of miscommunication tropes, but this book handled it so well that I found myself completely captivated. The male protagonist's obsession was portrayed with such depth that it felt almost palpable, creating a thrilling tension that lingered in every interaction. Initially, I perceived the main female character as somewhat delicate and vulnerable, but as the narrative unfolded, she revealed an inner strength and fierceness that truly impressed me. Her evolution was unexpected and added a rich layer to the story, leaving me delightfully surprised by her character development.
October 20, 2023
I was excited for this book because of all the TikTok hype and I feel that it definitely lived up to it! My one draw back was that I felt that finding out who the Reaper was was dragged out a little too long for my liking. But I loved the tension between Nevaeh and Beau. There is something so beautiful about that walking red flag. He let his hate consume him until all he felt was this need to control anything Nevaeh. I put on my rose colored glasses and dove in and I'd do it again!
October 18, 2023
OH MY GOD.
So first off, I wasn’t even expecting to get an ARC for this book but I’m so glad I did.
Beau and Nevaeh? Toxic in the best ways. I loved seeing Nevaeh come out of her shell throughout the book and turn into a total badass FMC. Beau, what can I say? Asshole turned cinnamon roll for the girl he loves? Yes pleaseeeee. He’ll do anything to see Nevaeh smile. Touch her a die vibes. 🥵 There was definitely a twist I did not see coming and had my mind blown! I seriously wanted to keep reading. Overall, I love love loved this book. It was a wild ride and I wish it didn’t have to end.
So first off, I wasn’t even expecting to get an ARC for this book but I’m so glad I did.
Beau and Nevaeh? Toxic in the best ways. I loved seeing Nevaeh come out of her shell throughout the book and turn into a total badass FMC. Beau, what can I say? Asshole turned cinnamon roll for the girl he loves? Yes pleaseeeee. He’ll do anything to see Nevaeh smile. Touch her a die vibes. 🥵 There was definitely a twist I did not see coming and had my mind blown! I seriously wanted to keep reading. Overall, I love love loved this book. It was a wild ride and I wish it didn’t have to end.
October 20, 2023
If you love murder mysteries, and dark romance smooshed together...read this! You really do fall in love with these very flawed MC's You can't help but root for them all the way to the end. My heart was pounding and I honestly couldn't see the twist coming at the end! I usually can pick up on those things but this time I was shocked!! I loved this book!
Im an ARC reader giving my honest opinion:)
Im an ARC reader giving my honest opinion:)
October 22, 2023
Received ARC for honest review
The story is set in a small highly religious town of Bloom, Kansas where our FMC Navaeh Santiago a child of a God fearing mother is witness to a murder by the areas hooded serial killer known as the Reaper but to her surprise she assumes it it her crush, the town's golden boy, Beau Du Pont. After her accusation and his imprisonment for 4yrs evidence proving Beau's innocence he is released. Navaeh then becomes the poor trailer park girl, to the final girl to a social pariah and public enemy no one for lying on Beau.
Beau has been waiting for 4yrs. He's obsession for revenge on Navaeh is unleashed and we get to see that the two our on a collision course as they both enrol in the town college.
This story inspired by Scream is part slasher movie/ New Adult/ Bully romance. You'll be forever trying to guess who's involved, who to trust. I really enjoyed the story and the characters even if Beau could have pushed more on his crazy on Naveah for him losing his freedom. But he didn't disappoint with his justice to others.
Navaeh and Beau chemistry and spicy time was good i would have loved to see more of explaining or understanding of their past but with all the crazy in the town from slayings and unhinged character it read like a movie.
(The life insurance for this town must astronomical lol)
A fun read great for spooky season.
The story is set in a small highly religious town of Bloom, Kansas where our FMC Navaeh Santiago a child of a God fearing mother is witness to a murder by the areas hooded serial killer known as the Reaper but to her surprise she assumes it it her crush, the town's golden boy, Beau Du Pont. After her accusation and his imprisonment for 4yrs evidence proving Beau's innocence he is released. Navaeh then becomes the poor trailer park girl, to the final girl to a social pariah and public enemy no one for lying on Beau.
Beau has been waiting for 4yrs. He's obsession for revenge on Navaeh is unleashed and we get to see that the two our on a collision course as they both enrol in the town college.
This story inspired by Scream is part slasher movie/ New Adult/ Bully romance. You'll be forever trying to guess who's involved, who to trust. I really enjoyed the story and the characters even if Beau could have pushed more on his crazy on Naveah for him losing his freedom. But he didn't disappoint with his justice to others.
Navaeh and Beau chemistry and spicy time was good i would have loved to see more of explaining or understanding of their past but with all the crazy in the town from slayings and unhinged character it read like a movie.
(The life insurance for this town must astronomical lol)
A fun read great for spooky season.
June 9, 2025
A quick review to remind myself to not re-read it in the future.
The plot idea had potential. The FMC living with her mom in a trailer. Her mom is very religious and so they attend several times a week church. During her church young people bible study she met the MMC who is 4 years or so older than the FMC. There is a serial killer in the area for a few years now. One night the fmc who is young around 12-13 years old, decides to go to the forest near the trailer and she witness the serial killer killing his new victim (the MMCs gf). It was dark so the fmc couldn’t see much and once she could (she got her flash light on) she saw the mmc covered in blood and acting crazy. Therefore she assumed he was the killer and reported to the police. 👮
The mmc went to prison for it for 4 years (he was sentenced for life in jail) but eventually the serial killer killed again and the mmc was then set free from prison.
Everyone one town turned on the fmc since the mmc used to be the towns golden boy.
The problem with the plot?
We get a few chapters to set up the premise where the mmc swore several times to take revenge on the fmc and to make her pay. And so during his prison time he became obsessed with the fmc, so once out he went after her. However, he never made her paid and even defended her from the bullies. He just says to her and to himself how much she will suffer but does nothing about it. Is like a dog with no bark. After a while it gets repetitive and empty.
He makes her pay with his D*ck though and through several Os. While telling her she is beautiful and a good girl. So…. Okay. Super evil dark character.
He is portrayed as being different since prison changed him and there is “darkness” in him but we never really see it. Again it’s a lot of telling and zero showing or backing jt up.
The fmc? Complete doormat. She keeps saying how she deserves all the bullying and the treatment and does everything the mmc asks bc she feels bad about him going to jail. She is so bland and boring can’t even remember what her name was.
The plot idea had potential. The FMC living with her mom in a trailer. Her mom is very religious and so they attend several times a week church. During her church young people bible study she met the MMC who is 4 years or so older than the FMC. There is a serial killer in the area for a few years now. One night the fmc who is young around 12-13 years old, decides to go to the forest near the trailer and she witness the serial killer killing his new victim (the MMCs gf). It was dark so the fmc couldn’t see much and once she could (she got her flash light on) she saw the mmc covered in blood and acting crazy. Therefore she assumed he was the killer and reported to the police. 👮
The mmc went to prison for it for 4 years (he was sentenced for life in jail) but eventually the serial killer killed again and the mmc was then set free from prison.
Everyone one town turned on the fmc since the mmc used to be the towns golden boy.
The problem with the plot?
We get a few chapters to set up the premise where the mmc swore several times to take revenge on the fmc and to make her pay. And so during his prison time he became obsessed with the fmc, so once out he went after her. However, he never made her paid and even defended her from the bullies. He just says to her and to himself how much she will suffer but does nothing about it. Is like a dog with no bark. After a while it gets repetitive and empty.
He makes her pay with his D*ck though and through several Os. While telling her she is beautiful and a good girl. So…. Okay. Super evil dark character.
He is portrayed as being different since prison changed him and there is “darkness” in him but we never really see it. Again it’s a lot of telling and zero showing or backing jt up.
The fmc? Complete doormat. She keeps saying how she deserves all the bullying and the treatment and does everything the mmc asks bc she feels bad about him going to jail. She is so bland and boring can’t even remember what her name was.
May 7, 2024
Great book! It would be awesome to watch it as a movie.
I had kind of guessed who the killer might be, to be honest. But the second one, nah... that was a surprise, to be honest. The reason behind all of these murders was also interesting.
What I didn't like:
1. The way Beau suddenly changed all of a sudden and goes on about "I love you, Nevaeh," doesn't suit him well.
2. They have awesome chemistry, but I just don't feel the love between them at all.
3. There were murders here and there, and Beau was so chill that it angered me. I expected a hero to behave like a hero, not like this. He was so chill even after hearing that the killer almost attacked her.
4. At first, the author tries to make him a murderer as well by killing Jordan, but all of a sudden, his character becomes normal.
5. That Ali scene, I just despair over it. The author shouldn't have written it. It was unnecessary.
6. I don't like the Sunny character (too loud for a book like this).
7. Why is Sunny living with them? I just don't like it.
I had kind of guessed who the killer might be, to be honest. But the second one, nah... that was a surprise, to be honest. The reason behind all of these murders was also interesting.
What I didn't like:
1. The way Beau suddenly changed all of a sudden and goes on about "I love you, Nevaeh," doesn't suit him well.
2. They have awesome chemistry, but I just don't feel the love between them at all.
3. There were murders here and there, and Beau was so chill that it angered me. I expected a hero to behave like a hero, not like this. He was so chill even after hearing that the killer almost attacked her.
4. At first, the author tries to make him a murderer as well by killing Jordan, but all of a sudden, his character becomes normal.
5. That Ali scene, I just despair over it. The author shouldn't have written it. It was unnecessary.
6. I don't like the Sunny character (too loud for a book like this).
7. Why is Sunny living with them? I just don't like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
dnf 43%
I’ve genuinely never read a book with a girl with less self respect AND I’VE READ CORA REILLY
she lets him kiss another girl and doesn’t get mad or anything, but instead comforts herself by thinking they’ll never know him like she does and that’s it
that and literally why did she never say anything about him not killing the girl?
and he treats her abysmally, do NOT let these fuck ass reviews fool you
I’ve genuinely never read a book with a girl with less self respect AND I’VE READ CORA REILLY
she lets him kiss another girl and doesn’t get mad or anything, but instead comforts herself by thinking they’ll never know him like she does and that’s it
that and literally why did she never say anything about him not killing the girl?
and he treats her abysmally, do NOT let these fuck ass reviews fool you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
FALSE IDOLS – HONEST BOOK REVIEW
If you’re reading this review, look no further. Darcy Dahlia ate and left no crumbs with this book. “False Idols” is a Dark College Romance inspired by the 90’s Horror Slasher films, more specifically Scream 2. Darcy gave everything you would want in a Dark Romance book, and it is definitely worth picking up. Stop kidding yourself! (I will say, please read the TW list as this book touches on A LOT of sensitive topics.)
The story follows Nevaeh Santigo and Beau Du Pont who live in a small town where murders are taking place. Nevaeh mistakenly accuses Beau of being the killer, resulting in an innocent man being locked away for four years. However, the murders are back. Beau is released and the two of them attend the same college where the killer aims to finish what was started.
My favorite character by far is Nevaeh’s roommate, Sunny. Sunny wastes no time getting down to business and calling out anyone who was bullying Nevaeh for sending Beau to jail. Sunny may be petite, but she’s a baddie with a mouth and she doesn’t play. Her sense of humor is everything I want for a bestie seriously. Moreover, the romance between Nevaeh and Beau got me in the hot seat reading those particular scenes. Let me tell you, Beau is the ONE to have. Darcy Dahlia did not miss a moment when writing Beau. All those bad boys you’ve read in other stories ain’t got NOTHING on Beau Du Pont. The way he got me turning them pages so fast . . . It’s been a while since I’ve read a spicy book that got me acting up LOL!
The story kept me guessing in regard to who the killer was. I was able to pick up some red flags regarding the identity but ultimately the plot twist was giving what it needed to give in the end. (I was JUMPING out of my seat when the tea was revealed.) I believe my favorite scene of the entire book relates to the final act where Nevaeh starts to reflect on a lot of things in her past. It was the character growth she needed to wrap her story arc in a perfect bow. Darcy Dahlia did a tremendous job giving such an impact, especially in a dark time. The book can be intense. I loved it, nonetheless. “False Idols” is definitely a page-turner. I wish there could be sequels that follow in a similar fashion like the "Scream" franchise, but I understand there doesn't need to be one either.
If I can give this review more than five stars, I would. 1000/10.
If you’re reading this review, look no further. Darcy Dahlia ate and left no crumbs with this book. “False Idols” is a Dark College Romance inspired by the 90’s Horror Slasher films, more specifically Scream 2. Darcy gave everything you would want in a Dark Romance book, and it is definitely worth picking up. Stop kidding yourself! (I will say, please read the TW list as this book touches on A LOT of sensitive topics.)
The story follows Nevaeh Santigo and Beau Du Pont who live in a small town where murders are taking place. Nevaeh mistakenly accuses Beau of being the killer, resulting in an innocent man being locked away for four years. However, the murders are back. Beau is released and the two of them attend the same college where the killer aims to finish what was started.
My favorite character by far is Nevaeh’s roommate, Sunny. Sunny wastes no time getting down to business and calling out anyone who was bullying Nevaeh for sending Beau to jail. Sunny may be petite, but she’s a baddie with a mouth and she doesn’t play. Her sense of humor is everything I want for a bestie seriously. Moreover, the romance between Nevaeh and Beau got me in the hot seat reading those particular scenes. Let me tell you, Beau is the ONE to have. Darcy Dahlia did not miss a moment when writing Beau. All those bad boys you’ve read in other stories ain’t got NOTHING on Beau Du Pont. The way he got me turning them pages so fast . . . It’s been a while since I’ve read a spicy book that got me acting up LOL!
The story kept me guessing in regard to who the killer was. I was able to pick up some red flags regarding the identity but ultimately the plot twist was giving what it needed to give in the end. (I was JUMPING out of my seat when the tea was revealed.) I believe my favorite scene of the entire book relates to the final act where Nevaeh starts to reflect on a lot of things in her past. It was the character growth she needed to wrap her story arc in a perfect bow. Darcy Dahlia did a tremendous job giving such an impact, especially in a dark time. The book can be intense. I loved it, nonetheless. “False Idols” is definitely a page-turner. I wish there could be sequels that follow in a similar fashion like the "Scream" franchise, but I understand there doesn't need to be one either.
If I can give this review more than five stars, I would. 1000/10.
October 22, 2023
I freaking love this book so much! I’ve been following the author’s posts on TikTok and when I got to be part of the ARC team, I was beyond ecstatic and this book is everything more than what I expected.
Our story follows Nevaeh, our introverted FMC who as a young teen was witness to a brutal murder which led her to name the wrong person in a moment of distress. Four years after, Beau was finally proven innocent and released from prison, brimming with vengeance and obsession over Nevaeh.
There’s so many things I loved about this book and I’ll try to keep it as vague as possible. First, the characters. I love Nevaeh and Beau’s personalities. Their obsession with one another was vastly different yet the same. They had this idea of each other based on their fantasies and assumptions and when they get to know each other personally it’s so eye opening. I especially love how Beau was so stuck in his need for revenge that his manic obsession with Nevaeh had him teetering the fine line between love and hate, ultimately making him love her fiercely and unconditionally.
The writing style had me hooked because the whole inspired-by-Scream thing was executed perfectly, it felt like a whole movie. Nevaeh plays horror beautifully and I could get why Beau was so enthralled by her. Nevaeh was also one of the few FMCs that actually evolved naturally into her new strong and brave persona after the things she went through and I love that for her. It’s amazing how much being with Beau made her grow into someone strong enough to survive her situation.
Then there’s the whole Reaper thing. I was at the edge of my seat every time they showed up because while I had my guess on who The Reaper was, the writing and plot twisting made me second guess myself every now and then. The intrigue doesn’t get old fast and the pacing and face reveal just made it all the more satisfying.
I wanna wrap up by saying this is by far one of my fav reads this year. All that intensity and heart pounding anticipation, combined with the wrong yet inevitable romance between Nevaeh and Beau made this a story I couldn’t put down and had me wanting more.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review which in no way affected my thoughts and opinions.
Our story follows Nevaeh, our introverted FMC who as a young teen was witness to a brutal murder which led her to name the wrong person in a moment of distress. Four years after, Beau was finally proven innocent and released from prison, brimming with vengeance and obsession over Nevaeh.
There’s so many things I loved about this book and I’ll try to keep it as vague as possible. First, the characters. I love Nevaeh and Beau’s personalities. Their obsession with one another was vastly different yet the same. They had this idea of each other based on their fantasies and assumptions and when they get to know each other personally it’s so eye opening. I especially love how Beau was so stuck in his need for revenge that his manic obsession with Nevaeh had him teetering the fine line between love and hate, ultimately making him love her fiercely and unconditionally.
The writing style had me hooked because the whole inspired-by-Scream thing was executed perfectly, it felt like a whole movie. Nevaeh plays horror beautifully and I could get why Beau was so enthralled by her. Nevaeh was also one of the few FMCs that actually evolved naturally into her new strong and brave persona after the things she went through and I love that for her. It’s amazing how much being with Beau made her grow into someone strong enough to survive her situation.
Then there’s the whole Reaper thing. I was at the edge of my seat every time they showed up because while I had my guess on who The Reaper was, the writing and plot twisting made me second guess myself every now and then. The intrigue doesn’t get old fast and the pacing and face reveal just made it all the more satisfying.
I wanna wrap up by saying this is by far one of my fav reads this year. All that intensity and heart pounding anticipation, combined with the wrong yet inevitable romance between Nevaeh and Beau made this a story I couldn’t put down and had me wanting more.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review which in no way affected my thoughts and opinions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
False Idols By Darcy Dahlia 🖤🩸🖤🩸
Release Date: October 21st
What happens when your a young girl, in love with a boy who just so happens to be falsely accused of a murder that you witnessed and put him behind bars? He returns and seeks vengeance. But not all is as it seems when the real serial unaliver returns and they have their sights set on Neveah and Beau.
So just so I can get it out of the way, Neveah's mum is yikes... I really don't like her in the slightest. The way she treated Naveah was cruel and unnecessary.
Neveah, I really liked her. She was so sweet and innocent, yet she had this awareness that she truly was different from those around her. She yearned for friendship and for the feeling of belonging. However, that didn't occur until Sunny. I love Sunny. The way she accepted Naveah for who she was a person was beautiful. I'm glad Naveah has her. I kind of want to see Sunny have her own story in the future, possibly? She's an interesting character 😊
Beau, love him. Yes, totally unhinged and possessive and vengeful, but I loved him anyway. I do feel sorry for Beau because of what he went through and what he had to become in order to survive. I personally think that he didn't really need to treat Nevaeh that way. They should have communicated better. She was a young girl, and I understand that it was chaotic. But I understand why he did it.
Nevaeh and Beau are meant to be. They match each other's energy. The way that Beau broke Nevaeh down and in doing so, she also broke down Beau's walls that he carefully constructed. They understand each other so well. When they are together, it's amazing, and I loved every minute of it.
That ending was f****** insane!!! I was not expecting that. This book is full of twists and turns, but Darcy did an amazing job at keeping us on our toes and bringing it all together.
It's so worth the read. Add to tbr immediately 🩷🩷🩷
Thank you so much to Darcy for giving me the opportunity to ARC read. I really appreciate it. All opinions are honest and my own 🩷🖤🖤
🩸 dual pov
🩸 virgin fmc
🩸 spicy scenes
🩸 Dark bully romance
🩸 check trigger warnings (she's dark)
🩸 lots of kinks
Release Date: October 21st
What happens when your a young girl, in love with a boy who just so happens to be falsely accused of a murder that you witnessed and put him behind bars? He returns and seeks vengeance. But not all is as it seems when the real serial unaliver returns and they have their sights set on Neveah and Beau.
So just so I can get it out of the way, Neveah's mum is yikes... I really don't like her in the slightest. The way she treated Naveah was cruel and unnecessary.
Neveah, I really liked her. She was so sweet and innocent, yet she had this awareness that she truly was different from those around her. She yearned for friendship and for the feeling of belonging. However, that didn't occur until Sunny. I love Sunny. The way she accepted Naveah for who she was a person was beautiful. I'm glad Naveah has her. I kind of want to see Sunny have her own story in the future, possibly? She's an interesting character 😊
Beau, love him. Yes, totally unhinged and possessive and vengeful, but I loved him anyway. I do feel sorry for Beau because of what he went through and what he had to become in order to survive. I personally think that he didn't really need to treat Nevaeh that way. They should have communicated better. She was a young girl, and I understand that it was chaotic. But I understand why he did it.
Nevaeh and Beau are meant to be. They match each other's energy. The way that Beau broke Nevaeh down and in doing so, she also broke down Beau's walls that he carefully constructed. They understand each other so well. When they are together, it's amazing, and I loved every minute of it.
That ending was f****** insane!!! I was not expecting that. This book is full of twists and turns, but Darcy did an amazing job at keeping us on our toes and bringing it all together.
It's so worth the read. Add to tbr immediately 🩷🩷🩷
Thank you so much to Darcy for giving me the opportunity to ARC read. I really appreciate it. All opinions are honest and my own 🩷🖤🖤
🩸 dual pov
🩸 virgin fmc
🩸 spicy scenes
🩸 Dark bully romance
🩸 check trigger warnings (she's dark)
🩸 lots of kinks
October 17, 2023
Okay, okay okay. Darcy has done it AGAIN.
I am bowing down to you with how amazing this whole book was
First of all let’s talk about Sunny, Sunny is a wild fire and she is what every girl needs. She is a no nonsense best friend. She protects Nevaeh and is willing to hurt anyone who has anything negative or aggressive to her. She truly is someone I’d love to have in my life at ALL times.
Second, the transition for Beau to realize he loves her was perfectly timed. I love how he thought she loved him but wasn’t quite sure. I think Beau is honestly the perfect MMC for this story. He was truly methodical & knew exactly what to do and when to do it. I love how he knew Nevaeh wouldn’t like Ali being all up in his business but he continued to do it until she had to much and reacted exactly as he deserved.
And Nevaeh, golly I loved her development. I love that she was shy quiet and scared until Beau realized that she was in love with him and then she started to just stop being afraid. How she handled the Reaper after Jordan’s party was BADASS. I loved that she did not care how crazy she looked or what others thought and THE FACT SHE THOUGHT ABOUT EVERYONE ELSE BEFORE RUNNING THE REAPER TO THE PARTY, just shows how much of an amazing person she is. She truly didn’t need to do that considering they were disgusting to her but she is such a sweet and as Beau would say his good girl. And when she killed the reaper hot damn, she sure let him have it and let him get what she felt out. Good for fucking her
I also was NOT expecting the Reaper to be Pastor Mike with Minnie. Honestly, I have no clue who I expected it to be. A part of me for some reason felt like it was Beau’s dad don’t know why but when they said Pastor Mike I had no words or thoughts. That was so unexpected and I am here for it.
This book was amazing, well written, I love the plot and the characters. It was just perfection.
I am bowing down to you with how amazing this whole book was
First of all let’s talk about Sunny, Sunny is a wild fire and she is what every girl needs. She is a no nonsense best friend. She protects Nevaeh and is willing to hurt anyone who has anything negative or aggressive to her. She truly is someone I’d love to have in my life at ALL times.
Second, the transition for Beau to realize he loves her was perfectly timed. I love how he thought she loved him but wasn’t quite sure. I think Beau is honestly the perfect MMC for this story. He was truly methodical & knew exactly what to do and when to do it. I love how he knew Nevaeh wouldn’t like Ali being all up in his business but he continued to do it until she had to much and reacted exactly as he deserved.
And Nevaeh, golly I loved her development. I love that she was shy quiet and scared until Beau realized that she was in love with him and then she started to just stop being afraid. How she handled the Reaper after Jordan’s party was BADASS. I loved that she did not care how crazy she looked or what others thought and THE FACT SHE THOUGHT ABOUT EVERYONE ELSE BEFORE RUNNING THE REAPER TO THE PARTY, just shows how much of an amazing person she is. She truly didn’t need to do that considering they were disgusting to her but she is such a sweet and as Beau would say his good girl. And when she killed the reaper hot damn, she sure let him have it and let him get what she felt out. Good for fucking her
I also was NOT expecting the Reaper to be Pastor Mike with Minnie. Honestly, I have no clue who I expected it to be. A part of me for some reason felt like it was Beau’s dad don’t know why but when they said Pastor Mike I had no words or thoughts. That was so unexpected and I am here for it.
This book was amazing, well written, I love the plot and the characters. It was just perfection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2023
Good Evening, Enthusiasts of the Dark,
Let's address the essentials first: a heartfelt thank you to Darcy Dahlia for crafting this enthralling tale. Before we plunge into the narrative, a courteous reminder to check all trigger warnings; heed them or not, for I am not here to play the role of your mother.
The spotlight of this story shines on Nevaeh, our main female character, and Beau, the central male character. Dahlia weaves a compelling narrative, skilfully balancing innocence, and darkness. Nevaeh, the quintessential college-aged innocent, collides with Beau, the golden boy turned psycho serial killer. As the cliché goes, "I can fix him, I swear it!" Beau's character is layered with reasons, and the Reaper adds an enigmatic touch, inviting readers to follow the elusive clues.
The plot unfolds with Nevaeh wrongfully accusing Beau of a murder committed by the Reaper. Beau serves four years in jail for a crime he didn't commit, and Nevaeh transforms from the town outcast to its hero. The dynamics shift dramatically when accusations are overturned, and Beau is released.
What follows is an obsession that morphs into possession, and somehow, against the odds, it evolves into a peculiar kind of love. Nevaeh seeks forgiveness for her role in Beau's incarceration, willing to go to any length for it. However, the Reaper has different plans for her, setting the stage for a dangerous hunt that Beau, now obsessed with protecting his possession, vehemently opposes.
Amidst the drama, enter Sunny, a side character who serves as both comedic relief and a figure I yearn for a more intense story about.
Avoiding spoilers, I'll simply say: Go read it; the allure is irresistible!
A note of caution: Christian tones are woven into this narrative. Approach accordingly.
E.
Let's address the essentials first: a heartfelt thank you to Darcy Dahlia for crafting this enthralling tale. Before we plunge into the narrative, a courteous reminder to check all trigger warnings; heed them or not, for I am not here to play the role of your mother.
The spotlight of this story shines on Nevaeh, our main female character, and Beau, the central male character. Dahlia weaves a compelling narrative, skilfully balancing innocence, and darkness. Nevaeh, the quintessential college-aged innocent, collides with Beau, the golden boy turned psycho serial killer. As the cliché goes, "I can fix him, I swear it!" Beau's character is layered with reasons, and the Reaper adds an enigmatic touch, inviting readers to follow the elusive clues.
The plot unfolds with Nevaeh wrongfully accusing Beau of a murder committed by the Reaper. Beau serves four years in jail for a crime he didn't commit, and Nevaeh transforms from the town outcast to its hero. The dynamics shift dramatically when accusations are overturned, and Beau is released.
What follows is an obsession that morphs into possession, and somehow, against the odds, it evolves into a peculiar kind of love. Nevaeh seeks forgiveness for her role in Beau's incarceration, willing to go to any length for it. However, the Reaper has different plans for her, setting the stage for a dangerous hunt that Beau, now obsessed with protecting his possession, vehemently opposes.
Amidst the drama, enter Sunny, a side character who serves as both comedic relief and a figure I yearn for a more intense story about.
Avoiding spoilers, I'll simply say: Go read it; the allure is irresistible!
A note of caution: Christian tones are woven into this narrative. Approach accordingly.
E.
September 23, 2024
🖤🖤🖤
In a quaint little town where everyone’s got a prayer on their lips, we meet Nevaeh Santiago, a girl raised by a holy than thou of a mom. But hold onto your hats—things take a wild turn when she witnesses a murder by the infamous hooded serial killer, the Reaper! And guess what? She thinks her crush, the town’s golden boy, Beau Du Pont, is the culprit!
Fast forward four years, and after being wrongly accused, Beau’s been stewing in prison, daydreaming about how he’ll make Nevaeh pay for the betrayal. But as he plots his revenge, he starts to wonder if his obsession is a bit... off.
With twists that could make your head spin, this tale kept me glued to the pages, racing to uncover the Reaper's identity and gasping at the jaw-dropping finale!
Things to know
murder (on page and off), attempted violence, murder of a parent, mutilation, violence, attempted suicide, male genital mutilation, kidnapping, coercion, blood and gore, stalking, and sexual assault. There are sexually explicit scenes of public masturbation, public sex, breeding kink, virgin kink, and talk of forced pregnancy, edging, forced orgasm, cnc, dubcon/noncon situations between between the MMC and FMC breath play, impact play, light bondage, violent pornography(off page), primal chase scenes, praise and degradation, knife play, and blood play. Characters experience emotional manipulation, anxiety, PTSD, bullying, humiliation, grief, isolation, and depressive thoughts. There are references to parental infidelity. Child abuse to include, neglect, verbal, emotional and physical to FMC. Please note there is religious trauma and drama in this book as well, with a good portion of it taking place in the Evangelical Non Denominational Church or under the influence of its teachings in a toxic form.
In a quaint little town where everyone’s got a prayer on their lips, we meet Nevaeh Santiago, a girl raised by a holy than thou of a mom. But hold onto your hats—things take a wild turn when she witnesses a murder by the infamous hooded serial killer, the Reaper! And guess what? She thinks her crush, the town’s golden boy, Beau Du Pont, is the culprit!
Fast forward four years, and after being wrongly accused, Beau’s been stewing in prison, daydreaming about how he’ll make Nevaeh pay for the betrayal. But as he plots his revenge, he starts to wonder if his obsession is a bit... off.
With twists that could make your head spin, this tale kept me glued to the pages, racing to uncover the Reaper's identity and gasping at the jaw-dropping finale!
Things to know
murder (on page and off), attempted violence, murder of a parent, mutilation, violence, attempted suicide, male genital mutilation, kidnapping, coercion, blood and gore, stalking, and sexual assault. There are sexually explicit scenes of public masturbation, public sex, breeding kink, virgin kink, and talk of forced pregnancy, edging, forced orgasm, cnc, dubcon/noncon situations between between the MMC and FMC breath play, impact play, light bondage, violent pornography(off page), primal chase scenes, praise and degradation, knife play, and blood play. Characters experience emotional manipulation, anxiety, PTSD, bullying, humiliation, grief, isolation, and depressive thoughts. There are references to parental infidelity. Child abuse to include, neglect, verbal, emotional and physical to FMC. Please note there is religious trauma and drama in this book as well, with a good portion of it taking place in the Evangelical Non Denominational Church or under the influence of its teachings in a toxic form.
October 21, 2023
Another Home Run Hitter for This Harking Hero!
Sorry, I enjoy alliteration!
Darcy Dahlia always pops in when I need her the most. This time it was during a hard core reading slump.
Once again, I received this gripping story “False Idols” as an ARC. And once again, she did not disappoint! What a palate cleanser to get me back into more dark romances.
NOTE: I highly encourage you to read through the trigger warning list for this book. She’s a spicy meatball this one.
Before I get to the story (no spoilers, I promise), I’d like to take a moment and appreciate Dahlia’s writing style. With the over saturation in the romance novel community, I’ve been burned one too many times in the recent past. But not only was this story engrossing, it was well written with exceptionally developed characters, had a captivating plot, and exemplary spice scenes that only make me cringe in a good way.
Refreshing! Brava!
Neveah, heaven spelled backward, bore witnesses to a gruesome murder. Said murder was allegedly perpetrated by Beau. Beau, her big time crush, a senior at her high school, and avid church goer at Crown of Thorns, the church she also attends with her mother.
But wait, did he?
The story follows freshman Neveah as she had a type of coming of age, finding herself moment while fending off the hatred of her town and revenge plots of the acquitted Beau.
Read as they fall in love, find the true killer, and as Beau works out the resentment that grew after losing four years of his life in prison and falling in love with the person who put him there.
10/10 recommend and honestly, will read again.
Sorry, I enjoy alliteration!
Darcy Dahlia always pops in when I need her the most. This time it was during a hard core reading slump.
Once again, I received this gripping story “False Idols” as an ARC. And once again, she did not disappoint! What a palate cleanser to get me back into more dark romances.
NOTE: I highly encourage you to read through the trigger warning list for this book. She’s a spicy meatball this one.
Before I get to the story (no spoilers, I promise), I’d like to take a moment and appreciate Dahlia’s writing style. With the over saturation in the romance novel community, I’ve been burned one too many times in the recent past. But not only was this story engrossing, it was well written with exceptionally developed characters, had a captivating plot, and exemplary spice scenes that only make me cringe in a good way.
Refreshing! Brava!
Neveah, heaven spelled backward, bore witnesses to a gruesome murder. Said murder was allegedly perpetrated by Beau. Beau, her big time crush, a senior at her high school, and avid church goer at Crown of Thorns, the church she also attends with her mother.
But wait, did he?
The story follows freshman Neveah as she had a type of coming of age, finding herself moment while fending off the hatred of her town and revenge plots of the acquitted Beau.
Read as they fall in love, find the true killer, and as Beau works out the resentment that grew after losing four years of his life in prison and falling in love with the person who put him there.
10/10 recommend and honestly, will read again.
October 21, 2023
✨ False Idols by Darcy Dahlia ✨
Darcy, Darcy, Darcy! Let me just start by saying that it hurts writing this review due to all the nail biting I did. Specially towards the end of the book. You kept me at the edge of my seat. The amount of suspense was phenomenal. I can usually guess who the bad guy is during the movies but the one person that I thought was the main bad guy was not. I mean they were bad but the serial unaliver they were not so I was left wondering who the main one was. I freaking love Beau's obsession with wanting to make Nevaeh pay for wrongfully accusing him of committing the crime that took four years from him. But little too late does Beau realizes that there is a very thin line between love and hate.
The entire town has turned their backs on Nevaeh after the news of Beaus wrongful arrest are made public. Not only is the serial unaliver still on the loose but now she's become the target for many that want her to pay for what she did.
If you love
💫 Scream/90s Slasher Inspired
💫 Bullly Romance
💫 Touch her and 💀
💫 Hate to Love
Type: Dark College Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stand Alone or Series: Standalone
Tropes: Thriller, Dark Romance
TWs: Graphic language, Unaliving on and off page, Mutilation, Kidnapping, Praise/Degradation, PTSD, just to name a few.
💋naj_ana_reads💋
Mood Reader
TikTok l Instagram l Goodreads l Amazon l Audiable Reviews
Darcy, Darcy, Darcy! Let me just start by saying that it hurts writing this review due to all the nail biting I did. Specially towards the end of the book. You kept me at the edge of my seat. The amount of suspense was phenomenal. I can usually guess who the bad guy is during the movies but the one person that I thought was the main bad guy was not. I mean they were bad but the serial unaliver they were not so I was left wondering who the main one was. I freaking love Beau's obsession with wanting to make Nevaeh pay for wrongfully accusing him of committing the crime that took four years from him. But little too late does Beau realizes that there is a very thin line between love and hate.
The entire town has turned their backs on Nevaeh after the news of Beaus wrongful arrest are made public. Not only is the serial unaliver still on the loose but now she's become the target for many that want her to pay for what she did.
If you love
💫 Scream/90s Slasher Inspired
💫 Bullly Romance
💫 Touch her and 💀
💫 Hate to Love
Type: Dark College Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stand Alone or Series: Standalone
Tropes: Thriller, Dark Romance
TWs: Graphic language, Unaliving on and off page, Mutilation, Kidnapping, Praise/Degradation, PTSD, just to name a few.
💋naj_ana_reads💋
Mood Reader
TikTok l Instagram l Goodreads l Amazon l Audiable Reviews
August 25, 2025
I was hesitant about picking up this book but I’m glad I did because the moment I saw that it has dual perspectives, I knew it was going to be good. How can I pass a story from the MMC’s POV? Getting a peek into his insanity of his obsession was going to be one to savour - and it did deliver. MMC is cray cray and l basically ate it all up.
Of course, not everything is perfect. I did wish the author wrote more about MMC’s time in prison and how the drive for revenge developed his obsessive charm. Also, I don’t know if I missed it but I couldn’t tell if MMC was a golden boy ruined in prison or innately dark from the start. Either ways, MMC’s character could’ve been expressed more initially in the story to intensify his dark side. I can’t say I am a fan when MMC broke his dark sadistic character immediately after FMC confessed. How can one go from shadow daddy energy to a soft puppy in an instant? Thankfully this was short lived so it was not an issue.
I was pleasantly surprised by the FMC character. Expecting her to be the victimised masochist in the entirety of the book, halfway through she pulled a “I’m tired of all this bs” and broke out of her oppressive environment and suppressive tendencies. I mean she is still a submissive girl in their bedroom affairs but somebody’s gotta take the L right? I like this twist in her personality and the complexity of her heart.
This review is longer than I thought but that just means I thoroughly enjoyed this book regardless of whatever “negative” was just said. Give it a go if you like serial killers type shyt.
Of course, not everything is perfect. I did wish the author wrote more about MMC’s time in prison and how the drive for revenge developed his obsessive charm. Also, I don’t know if I missed it but I couldn’t tell if MMC was a golden boy ruined in prison or innately dark from the start. Either ways, MMC’s character could’ve been expressed more initially in the story to intensify his dark side. I can’t say I am a fan when MMC broke his dark sadistic character immediately after FMC confessed. How can one go from shadow daddy energy to a soft puppy in an instant? Thankfully this was short lived so it was not an issue.
I was pleasantly surprised by the FMC character. Expecting her to be the victimised masochist in the entirety of the book, halfway through she pulled a “I’m tired of all this bs” and broke out of her oppressive environment and suppressive tendencies. I mean she is still a submissive girl in their bedroom affairs but somebody’s gotta take the L right? I like this twist in her personality and the complexity of her heart.
This review is longer than I thought but that just means I thoroughly enjoyed this book regardless of whatever “negative” was just said. Give it a go if you like serial killers type shyt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2025
scream meets dark romance
⭐️⭐️.75 / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
“I need him to live. I deserve for him to live.”
Nevaeh is heaven backwards but all she has ever created was hell for Beau Du Pont. Especially when she names him The Reaper, the hidden figure who has terrorized their town. Four year behind bars and Beau is set free when The Reaper mails the murder weapon in. What she doesn’t realize is her childhood crush may have taken the fall, but Nevaeh will pay the price.
Sigh, I wasn’t in love with how this one ended. I was hooked though. It has religious themes and slasher inspiration but the execution left a lot to be desired.
Beau was a true psycho. Him being obsessed with revenge on Nevaeh fueled his actions. Nevaeh was whinny. And I am disappointed.
The ending felt rushed and I would’ve liked more of a cat and mouse storyline developed between Beau and Nevaeh while The Realer was roaming free. I feel like the main characters got together way too fast especially since Beau was so hell bent on revenge. Plus LOTS of romance cliches.
Also the cops in this town should all be fired. Guessed the identity right away, lol.
⭐️⭐️.75 / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
“I need him to live. I deserve for him to live.”
Nevaeh is heaven backwards but all she has ever created was hell for Beau Du Pont. Especially when she names him The Reaper, the hidden figure who has terrorized their town. Four year behind bars and Beau is set free when The Reaper mails the murder weapon in. What she doesn’t realize is her childhood crush may have taken the fall, but Nevaeh will pay the price.
Sigh, I wasn’t in love with how this one ended. I was hooked though. It has religious themes and slasher inspiration but the execution left a lot to be desired.
Beau was a true psycho. Him being obsessed with revenge on Nevaeh fueled his actions. Nevaeh was whinny. And I am disappointed.
The ending felt rushed and I would’ve liked more of a cat and mouse storyline developed between Beau and Nevaeh while The Realer was roaming free. I feel like the main characters got together way too fast especially since Beau was so hell bent on revenge. Plus LOTS of romance cliches.
Also the cops in this town should all be fired. Guessed the identity right away, lol.
October 21, 2023
Oh my gosh... what did I just read?!?! I felt like I was on a roller coaster from the beginning. Beau is back from his stint in jail and has his eyes set on the one girl who sent him there, Nevaeh. She is an innocent girl, raised in the church, and does everything by the book. Beau has changed and he's obsessed with Neveah. Beyond obsessed.
These two are magnetic. Nevaeh grows so much throughout the book as Beau brings her out of her shell more and more. She gains enough confidence that she can fight for herself and doesn't just lay down. I kept waiting for The Reaper to pop up. My mind was spinning as to who it could be and then a lightbulb went off and knew I had to be on the right track.
This one is like your classic slasher film, which I don't like watching, but LOVE reading. This one was a nice thick standalone and I was hanging on every word. It has a nice balance of plot and spice, but check the content warnings as there is quite a bit of dub con. I have a feeling this one is going to live rent free in my head for a long time!
These two are magnetic. Nevaeh grows so much throughout the book as Beau brings her out of her shell more and more. She gains enough confidence that she can fight for herself and doesn't just lay down. I kept waiting for The Reaper to pop up. My mind was spinning as to who it could be and then a lightbulb went off and knew I had to be on the right track.
This one is like your classic slasher film, which I don't like watching, but LOVE reading. This one was a nice thick standalone and I was hanging on every word. It has a nice balance of plot and spice, but check the content warnings as there is quite a bit of dub con. I have a feeling this one is going to live rent free in my head for a long time!
October 21, 2023
Thank you to Darcy Dahlia and the publisher or publishers for all your hard work! I'm leaving this review voluntarily and happily!
I absolutely loved this book! Full of murder and even mystery. It left me wondering who the Reaper was. Every time I got it wrong! This definitely is similar to Scream but not at all the same. So don't worry, this is not a retelling! It's so much better. A bully romance/ scream slasher fic this is absolutely perfect for the month of October.
A man accused of murder who's the wrong murderer put away and set free after years being locked away. What's his plan? Make the person responsible for putting him away life hell. Does he succeed? Read to find out. The Reaper wasn't happy when he was put away. Now that he's free, he wants him dead and will stop at nothing. Who is this killer, and what will happen. Read and find out! This book does contain gore, death, language, and highly explicit sex scenes, so if that's not for you, look the other way.
Thank you again do much for allowing me to read this book. It was so worth the read!
I absolutely loved this book! Full of murder and even mystery. It left me wondering who the Reaper was. Every time I got it wrong! This definitely is similar to Scream but not at all the same. So don't worry, this is not a retelling! It's so much better. A bully romance/ scream slasher fic this is absolutely perfect for the month of October.
A man accused of murder who's the wrong murderer put away and set free after years being locked away. What's his plan? Make the person responsible for putting him away life hell. Does he succeed? Read to find out. The Reaper wasn't happy when he was put away. Now that he's free, he wants him dead and will stop at nothing. Who is this killer, and what will happen. Read and find out! This book does contain gore, death, language, and highly explicit sex scenes, so if that's not for you, look the other way.
Thank you again do much for allowing me to read this book. It was so worth the read!
February 16, 2025
Spice: 3/5🌶️
Tropes: Bully romance, virgin fmc, ‘Only I can hurt her’ vibes, golden boy antihero x social pariah, 90’s slasher movie homage, Midwest setting
This was such a well written dark romance with that hint of mystery and suspense. It’s got great character development and we get to see both main characters grow stronger. Beau Du Pont, our MMC, does time for a crime he didn’t commit and spends those four years obsessing over the girl who put him there; Neveah Santiago. Nev (FMC) has been in love with the boy she claimed to be ‘The Reaper’ a serial killer who she thought she caught the night she pointed her finger at the towns golden boy. She quickly became the towns pariah, she believes she deserves the hate and bullying the town gives her the mistake she made. However, with The Reaper back will Beau, who “took” the credit for the kill from the Reaper, be able to survive and protect Nev? Will the towns most hated girl and the boy who spent time behind bars with monsters put a stop to the years of terror The Reaper brought to the small town of Bloom, Kansas?
Tropes: Bully romance, virgin fmc, ‘Only I can hurt her’ vibes, golden boy antihero x social pariah, 90’s slasher movie homage, Midwest setting
This was such a well written dark romance with that hint of mystery and suspense. It’s got great character development and we get to see both main characters grow stronger. Beau Du Pont, our MMC, does time for a crime he didn’t commit and spends those four years obsessing over the girl who put him there; Neveah Santiago. Nev (FMC) has been in love with the boy she claimed to be ‘The Reaper’ a serial killer who she thought she caught the night she pointed her finger at the towns golden boy. She quickly became the towns pariah, she believes she deserves the hate and bullying the town gives her the mistake she made. However, with The Reaper back will Beau, who “took” the credit for the kill from the Reaper, be able to survive and protect Nev? Will the towns most hated girl and the boy who spent time behind bars with monsters put a stop to the years of terror The Reaper brought to the small town of Bloom, Kansas?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2023
False Idols by Darcy Dahlia is the first book I’m reading by this author. What a great read for the spooky season, I absolutely loved this book. This was a great combination of dark romance and a thriller. The writing was really well done and I was invested from the first couple chapters. I read this in one sitting, never once wanting to put down my kindle. There were times I was on the edge of my seat with all the suspense. It had a great slasher vibe. I really enjoyed how the characters were written specifically Nevaeh and her development. I liked the way the inner monologues/thoughts were written. I overall really really enjoyed reading this book and trying to put clues together. I would definitely recommend this book. I’m looking forward to reading other books by Darcy Dahlia because if the other books are anything like this one I’m going to be a fan.
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
Final review:
4 out of 5 stars
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