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Twisted Origins #1
Yours to Take
It’s all fun and games until someone falls.
Quentin:
They took my little sister from me and now my every thought revolves around getting revenge. It’s my sole purpose for living.
The sweet caress of the blade in my hand drowns out the remnants of my soul screaming that Portland's scumbags are not my fucking problem. But they are and I have made it my mission to eradicate these assholes from the streets. Vengeance has no time for distractions.
That is, until I meet Anora, the woman who is so focused on being my salvation, that she hasn't realized being with me can only lead to her demise. Could she be the one to get me to walk away from this life?
Anora:
Men in this city suck. I design clothes for the crème de la crème of Portland. Between their connections, the dating apps, and city life, surely I would have met my match by now. But, no, I’ve been on the worst dates with what feels like every man in this damn city. Not one of them has come close to giving me butterflies…until now.
Quentin Thorne, with just a little work, could be the perfect guy for me. A Prince Charming in the making. Whether he wants to be or not.
Little do I know, he's far from a Prince Charming, more like the evil, masked villain lurking in the corner waiting to whisk away the heroine. Can our relationship survive his secrets when he takes off his mask?
Quentin:
They took my little sister from me and now my every thought revolves around getting revenge. It’s my sole purpose for living.
The sweet caress of the blade in my hand drowns out the remnants of my soul screaming that Portland's scumbags are not my fucking problem. But they are and I have made it my mission to eradicate these assholes from the streets. Vengeance has no time for distractions.
That is, until I meet Anora, the woman who is so focused on being my salvation, that she hasn't realized being with me can only lead to her demise. Could she be the one to get me to walk away from this life?
Anora:
Men in this city suck. I design clothes for the crème de la crème of Portland. Between their connections, the dating apps, and city life, surely I would have met my match by now. But, no, I’ve been on the worst dates with what feels like every man in this damn city. Not one of them has come close to giving me butterflies…until now.
Quentin Thorne, with just a little work, could be the perfect guy for me. A Prince Charming in the making. Whether he wants to be or not.
Little do I know, he's far from a Prince Charming, more like the evil, masked villain lurking in the corner waiting to whisk away the heroine. Can our relationship survive his secrets when he takes off his mask?
- GenresDark RomanceRomance
Unknown Binding
Published September 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 18, 2025
ARC:
My biggest complaint, it's not long enough cause the premise and plot could have been developed so much more and it had such a potential.
The MMC (Quentin) is a fairly normal guy who works in tech and he sees the FMC (Anore) one day on a date and is instantly enamoured by her. Let's just say something happens to the date.
The fmc I think lacked some personality, but she did react in a realistic way to finding out the truth and in the 3rd act conflict.
The stalking element I wished happened for longer and I feel like some parts of the plot wasn't fleshed out fully or explained.
My biggest complaint, it's not long enough cause the premise and plot could have been developed so much more and it had such a potential.
The MMC (Quentin) is a fairly normal guy who works in tech and he sees the FMC (Anore) one day on a date and is instantly enamoured by her. Let's just say something happens to the date.
The fmc I think lacked some personality, but she did react in a realistic way to finding out the truth and in the 3rd act conflict.
The stalking element I wished happened for longer and I feel like some parts of the plot wasn't fleshed out fully or explained.
April 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Love me some obsessive, possessive, touch her and die MMCs, and Quentin did not disappoint! Will say this would have been better if it were longer and more developed, but overall really enjoyed.
What to expect:
- vigilante serial killer
- ghost face vibes
- stalking
- touch her and die (literally)
- banter
- 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Love me some obsessive, possessive, touch her and die MMCs, and Quentin did not disappoint! Will say this would have been better if it were longer and more developed, but overall really enjoyed.
What to expect:
- vigilante serial killer
- ghost face vibes
- stalking
- touch her and die (literally)
- banter
- 🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 19, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
5/5 🌶️
*inhale* QUENTIN THORNE THE MAN THAT YOU ARE!!!
Hi, can you tell I loved this? I'm usually not a huge fan of insta-love/lust but the whole 'touch her and die' thing that's going on trumps that entirely. The drama was immaculate, the banter was utter perfection, and I can only fantasize of a love like Quentin and Anora's.
Also, the epilogue....gods the epilogue, where do I find a personal Quentin?
Huge thanks to Vera Kane and NetGalley for this eARC!!
5/5 🌶️
*inhale* QUENTIN THORNE THE MAN THAT YOU ARE!!!
Hi, can you tell I loved this? I'm usually not a huge fan of insta-love/lust but the whole 'touch her and die' thing that's going on trumps that entirely. The drama was immaculate, the banter was utter perfection, and I can only fantasize of a love like Quentin and Anora's.
Also, the epilogue....gods the epilogue, where do I find a personal Quentin?
Huge thanks to Vera Kane and NetGalley for this eARC!!
May 11, 2025
⁀➷ 2 ★ ´ˎ˗
this book was just… legitimately not for me. the writing was messy, the dialogue was pretty cringeworthy, and the plot followed a very generic formula that most dark romance books seem to do these days.
mmc obsesses over fmc. they meet and fall in love at a super quick insta-love point just for the sake of spice. conflict arises due to miscommunication and mmc’s lies. fmc gets kidnapped in scooby-doo villain style. mmc comes to the rescue. they live happily ever after while sweeping all the trauma and issues with their relationship under the rug.
both quentin and anora are such shallow characters with no personality, so it’s not like i could even enjoy them aside from the regurgitation of the same boring plot that most ‘spicy’ books have these days.
i usually love the whole ‘touch her and die’ trope, but this was just a poor execution of that in general.
thank you to netgalley, azala romance, and vera kane for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
this book was just… legitimately not for me. the writing was messy, the dialogue was pretty cringeworthy, and the plot followed a very generic formula that most dark romance books seem to do these days.
mmc obsesses over fmc. they meet and fall in love at a super quick insta-love point just for the sake of spice. conflict arises due to miscommunication and mmc’s lies. fmc gets kidnapped in scooby-doo villain style. mmc comes to the rescue. they live happily ever after while sweeping all the trauma and issues with their relationship under the rug.
both quentin and anora are such shallow characters with no personality, so it’s not like i could even enjoy them aside from the regurgitation of the same boring plot that most ‘spicy’ books have these days.
i usually love the whole ‘touch her and die’ trope, but this was just a poor execution of that in general.
thank you to netgalley, azala romance, and vera kane for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 26, 2024
This book was amazing.
I love that Quentin is like a semi ‘normal guy’ outside of his extra curricular activities. Like, he is anxious about talking to her and her loving him etc, and that’s just cute. I like that he wasn’t super egotistical, let her have space when she needed it, and was a well rounded dude.
The world building and story development in this book is also absolutely perfect. You get SO MUCH STORY, in such a short book. I love Novellas like this, but I always feel like so much gets left out, I mean, they are small something has to be left out, but with this one, nothing feels left out. Nothing feels rushed. It felt like it flowed properly and it was put together so well.
10/10 loved this book would highly recommend it!
I love that Quentin is like a semi ‘normal guy’ outside of his extra curricular activities. Like, he is anxious about talking to her and her loving him etc, and that’s just cute. I like that he wasn’t super egotistical, let her have space when she needed it, and was a well rounded dude.
The world building and story development in this book is also absolutely perfect. You get SO MUCH STORY, in such a short book. I love Novellas like this, but I always feel like so much gets left out, I mean, they are small something has to be left out, but with this one, nothing feels left out. Nothing feels rushed. It felt like it flowed properly and it was put together so well.
10/10 loved this book would highly recommend it!
June 18, 2025
"For every girl who has watched Scream and fantasized about Billy Loomis. This one is for you."
To quote ✧ jay ✧’s review because I share the same sentiment – QUENTIN THORNE THE MAN THAT YOU ARE!!!
In Yours to Take we follow the story of Anora and Quentin, seeing how their relationship develops – against all odds and unexpected twists!
This book had everything you might want in a dark romance. You will especially like it if you’re a fan of slasher movies and Ghostface more specifically – on top of the dark MMC being so head over heals for the FMC that you cannot help but swoon over him too. Goes without saying, but – check the trigger warnings, as some appear as early as the prologue.
”Living without you feels like I’m wandering on a path that leads to nowhere.”
Quentin, our MMC, despite his nighttime activities and his instant infatuation with our FMC, Anora, was so cute about it. Getting to know his family history and how the loss has affected him was heartbreaking, which in turn made his dreams about possible future with Anora that much more precious. Seeing his journey from being so deep into doing what helped him cope (but then just turned into the only life he knew) to wanting and believing he could have a future to look forward to. Whenever he’d think of how his relationship with her could develop I couldn’t help but squeal and giggle!
”Being lonely is better than being treated like scum on the bottom of someone’s shoe.”
Anora held her own as well as a character in this book. Coming with her own family and relationships baggage, she navigated them bravely. And even though her certain reactions made me unsure about how their story would end, I understood why she behaved in
Initially, I had some doubts on how I’d rate this book - because as much as I loved it, I was left wanting more. I'm still jumping between 4-5 stars. It’s a fast-paced read but because it’s fairly short, it would only benefit from having more time spent on developing the plot so that certain developments would not seems so sudden – but!
BUT. The action picked up so much I was at the edge of my seat, not knowing who I could trust until the very end! So, I really appreciate how the story was fleshed out, even if I was stressed and screaming to my bestie about it.
I’m very excited to see where Vera takes this series, and look forward to discovering more of the Twisted Origins!
Thank you to Vera Kane, NetGalley and Azala Romance for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
To quote ✧ jay ✧’s review because I share the same sentiment – QUENTIN THORNE THE MAN THAT YOU ARE!!!
In Yours to Take we follow the story of Anora and Quentin, seeing how their relationship develops – against all odds and unexpected twists!
This book had everything you might want in a dark romance. You will especially like it if you’re a fan of slasher movies and Ghostface more specifically – on top of the dark MMC being so head over heals for the FMC that you cannot help but swoon over him too. Goes without saying, but – check the trigger warnings, as some appear as early as the prologue.
”Living without you feels like I’m wandering on a path that leads to nowhere.”
Quentin, our MMC, despite his nighttime activities and his instant infatuation with our FMC, Anora, was so cute about it. Getting to know his family history and how the loss has affected him was heartbreaking, which in turn made his dreams about possible future with Anora that much more precious. Seeing his journey from being so deep into doing what helped him cope (but then just turned into the only life he knew) to wanting and believing he could have a future to look forward to. Whenever he’d think of how his relationship with her could develop I couldn’t help but squeal and giggle!
”Being lonely is better than being treated like scum on the bottom of someone’s shoe.”
Anora held her own as well as a character in this book. Coming with her own family and relationships baggage, she navigated them bravely. And even though her certain reactions made me unsure about how their story would end, I understood why she behaved in
Initially, I had some doubts on how I’d rate this book - because as much as I loved it, I was left wanting more. I'm still jumping between 4-5 stars. It’s a fast-paced read but because it’s fairly short, it would only benefit from having more time spent on developing the plot so that certain developments would not seems so sudden – but!
BUT. The action picked up so much I was at the edge of my seat, not knowing who I could trust until the very end! So, I really appreciate how the story was fleshed out, even if I was stressed and screaming to my bestie about it.
I’m very excited to see where Vera takes this series, and look forward to discovering more of the Twisted Origins!
Thank you to Vera Kane, NetGalley and Azala Romance for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2024
This was a good read overall!
It would be a perfect Halloween time read for sure.
It only lost a point from me because of the predictability of it all.
Don’t get me wrong; this was a good book! But everything that happened I could see coming from a mile away. There were no little twists to keep my interest peaked. I also found the MFC lacked depth.
The MMC was well written. He had a purpose and developed during the story. I feel like I never learned enough about the MFC besides that she is pretty with white hair.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team for this release! 🤍
It would be a perfect Halloween time read for sure.
It only lost a point from me because of the predictability of it all.
Don’t get me wrong; this was a good book! But everything that happened I could see coming from a mile away. There were no little twists to keep my interest peaked. I also found the MFC lacked depth.
The MMC was well written. He had a purpose and developed during the story. I feel like I never learned enough about the MFC besides that she is pretty with white hair.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team for this release! 🤍
August 28, 2024
SO FUN! Ghostface inspired dark romance suspense with a masked man? sign me up!!!
so fast paced -- devoured it in one sitting & already can't wait to reread :)'
so fast paced -- devoured it in one sitting & already can't wait to reread :)'
April 20, 2025
If you liked Haunting Adeline and Lights Out then this is the book for you!
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for giving me access to this eARC.
Anora, a girl who just wants to find love but has a really bad streak of failed dates living with her roommate and best friend Aurora.
Quentin, a guy on a path of Vengeance for the death of his sister he takes it upon himself to hunt down the scum of the city.
They cross paths at a coffee shop where Anora is on another failure of a date. Quentin first sets his eyes on her and he knows he will never let her go.
My opinion and thoughts:
I liked the concept but it was too short for what it wanted to be. You miss a big chunk of their relationship development so it just seems like Anora fell for him in such a short time even though it's said it's been months. Those months weren't shown. 😞
I feel the two girl friends had annoyingly similar names that was unnecessary. Anora and Aurora. If the shortened form of the names weren't used, I would have been confused.
Anora has Silver hair but it's unclear whether it was bleached or if it was natural.
Things happened way to quickly for my liking and when the 'conflict' happened.. it was just anticlimactic.
I wanted to like this so much, but it just was missing alot of plot and character development. There wasn't alot of tension either.
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for giving me access to this eARC.
Anora, a girl who just wants to find love but has a really bad streak of failed dates living with her roommate and best friend Aurora.
Quentin, a guy on a path of Vengeance for the death of his sister he takes it upon himself to hunt down the scum of the city.
They cross paths at a coffee shop where Anora is on another failure of a date. Quentin first sets his eyes on her and he knows he will never let her go.
My opinion and thoughts:
I liked the concept but it was too short for what it wanted to be. You miss a big chunk of their relationship development so it just seems like Anora fell for him in such a short time even though it's said it's been months. Those months weren't shown. 😞
I feel the two girl friends had annoyingly similar names that was unnecessary. Anora and Aurora. If the shortened form of the names weren't used, I would have been confused.
Anora has Silver hair but it's unclear whether it was bleached or if it was natural.
Things happened way to quickly for my liking and when the 'conflict' happened.. it was just anticlimactic.
I wanted to like this so much, but it just was missing alot of plot and character development. There wasn't alot of tension either.
May 3, 2025
before i begin, i’d like to thank netgalley for this arc!
i was super excited to read this one, as it was a dark romance book and i’m a HUGEEE dark romance lover. i did have a good time while reading it, but it was so so short and was definitely an insta-love (which is a trope i’m not a huge fan of). because of how short it was, it felt like everything was happening so so quick and there was little build up! i also felt as though i was not connected to the characters!
however, i still think this was a quick and entertaining read (i mean i read it in one sitting)!!! if you’re looking for a quick dark romance to read, this is definitely one that i would recommend!
i was super excited to read this one, as it was a dark romance book and i’m a HUGEEE dark romance lover. i did have a good time while reading it, but it was so so short and was definitely an insta-love (which is a trope i’m not a huge fan of). because of how short it was, it felt like everything was happening so so quick and there was little build up! i also felt as though i was not connected to the characters!
however, i still think this was a quick and entertaining read (i mean i read it in one sitting)!!! if you’re looking for a quick dark romance to read, this is definitely one that i would recommend!
April 15, 2025
I wanted to like this book, it was giving me some of the vibes of Lights Out and Butcher and Blackbird both of which I loved, unfortunately Yours to Take fell flat for me. Overall the story felt rushed and forced, one of the big conflicts in the book didn't have an actual explanation for how it happened. The best part were the spicy scenes, but they weren't good enough and there weren't to make up for the rest of the book.
December 31, 2024
*3.5 stars*
"For every girl who has watched Scream and fantasized about Billy Loomis. This one is for you"
Think Haunting Adeline, but with more consent.
After his sister's murder, Quentin sought out to remove every bit of filth from the world. Living the double life of "The Scarlet Vigilante", he had no time for distractions or liability. That was until Anora came into his life ... but he knew the cost that could come with bringing her into his dark world and soul.
I really enjoyed reading this story and learning more about Quentin and Anora. I love a dark man who has a soft soul for the one he loves.
My favorite part? The playlist to go along with the book, from Sleep Token to Arctic Monkeys, the selections fit the story perfectly.
The only complaint I have is that some of the story felt rushed through to get to the spice. I wanted more of a build up or story telling in some parts.
"For every girl who has watched Scream and fantasized about Billy Loomis. This one is for you"
Think Haunting Adeline, but with more consent.
After his sister's murder, Quentin sought out to remove every bit of filth from the world. Living the double life of "The Scarlet Vigilante", he had no time for distractions or liability. That was until Anora came into his life ... but he knew the cost that could come with bringing her into his dark world and soul.
I really enjoyed reading this story and learning more about Quentin and Anora. I love a dark man who has a soft soul for the one he loves.
My favorite part? The playlist to go along with the book, from Sleep Token to Arctic Monkeys, the selections fit the story perfectly.
The only complaint I have is that some of the story felt rushed through to get to the spice. I wanted more of a build up or story telling in some parts.
August 30, 2024
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
This is my second novel of Vera’s that I had the privilege of reading. Her writing style is so easy to follow and the storylines are so great that I can’t help but read it.
This story is a spicy telling of Ghostface, so if you loved the scream movies (and happen to enjoy serial killers) this is a great book to read!
Overall story was amazing - although I wish it could have been longer - and the characters were very likeable.
Also, “little moon” as a nickname is adorable & his love confession at the end made me tear up. Definitely give this book a read when it comes out in September 🎉
This is my second novel of Vera’s that I had the privilege of reading. Her writing style is so easy to follow and the storylines are so great that I can’t help but read it.
This story is a spicy telling of Ghostface, so if you loved the scream movies (and happen to enjoy serial killers) this is a great book to read!
Overall story was amazing - although I wish it could have been longer - and the characters were very likeable.
Also, “little moon” as a nickname is adorable & his love confession at the end made me tear up. Definitely give this book a read when it comes out in September 🎉
April 4, 2025
Thank you to the Author, Azala Romance and NetGalley for giving me early access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'll start off by saying I'm so conflicted with how to review this book as there was so much I enjoyed but other aspects that just didn't hit the mark. This is, however, a great book to read if you're new to this genre and want to explore dark romance without some really heavy triggers and detailed spicy scenes. Please skip to the bottom of my review for a summary if you don't want to read the full review.
Quentin:
"She reminded me of a moon in the darkness, everyone else orbiting her while she shone in the centre"
I actually really liked Quentin as the MMC, we saw his character grow from a seriel unaliver looking for retribution for his sisters murder, his anger towards the world and the cards he had been dealt though life. He has a close circle of a few friends and generally didn't believe in love. By the end his heart was thawing and he was seeing the world in a different light. I adore the nickname he gave her of 'Little Moon'
I won't go into any further details with the risk of leaving spoilers!
Anora:
"....the thought of diving headfirst without a parachute into the abyss that was him scared the shit out of me..."
I liked Anora enough as the FMC but we didn't really learn much about her and her background. The only real details we were given were that she has pale hair, was very pretty and that she worked in fashion. I found it hard to really connect to a character that wasn't explored and given more depth. That said, she wasn't unlikeable!
The Plot:
I'd say this book was more character driven than having a real plot. Quentin essentially suffers 'instalove' when he first sees Anora and that's the basis around the plot. How their lives become intertwined and they get to know one another. I also think the 'big reveal' was done a little too quickly without much emotion from the FMC or much reaction. Everything was quite predictable and there were no plot twists that left my jaw on the floor.
The Spice:
"Eyes on me."
For a book that is considered a dark romance and comes with a list of trigger warnings however, I'd say this was actually quite mild. The spicy scenes didn't go on for many pages despite the build up and tension. There wasn't really that much detail within the scenes and the only real kinks explored was a mask and bound wrists - maybe I've just been spoilt as I read a lot of darker stuff.
Summary:
I've given this book 3.5 stars. The writing style was simple to follow and I never felt bored when reading it - I have also highlighted an abundance of quotes that I was absolutely in love with! Quentin was a great MMC and I enjoyed following his journey and growth. I do feel there needed to be more action given Quentin's lust for ending lives. I'd like to know more about Anora and possibly see where their journey takes them moving forward. I think this author has made a promising start in the world of dark romance and look forward to seeing what else they bring to the table.
I'll start off by saying I'm so conflicted with how to review this book as there was so much I enjoyed but other aspects that just didn't hit the mark. This is, however, a great book to read if you're new to this genre and want to explore dark romance without some really heavy triggers and detailed spicy scenes. Please skip to the bottom of my review for a summary if you don't want to read the full review.
Quentin:
"She reminded me of a moon in the darkness, everyone else orbiting her while she shone in the centre"
I actually really liked Quentin as the MMC, we saw his character grow from a seriel unaliver looking for retribution for his sisters murder, his anger towards the world and the cards he had been dealt though life. He has a close circle of a few friends and generally didn't believe in love. By the end his heart was thawing and he was seeing the world in a different light. I adore the nickname he gave her of 'Little Moon'
I won't go into any further details with the risk of leaving spoilers!
Anora:
"....the thought of diving headfirst without a parachute into the abyss that was him scared the shit out of me..."
I liked Anora enough as the FMC but we didn't really learn much about her and her background. The only real details we were given were that she has pale hair, was very pretty and that she worked in fashion. I found it hard to really connect to a character that wasn't explored and given more depth. That said, she wasn't unlikeable!
The Plot:
I'd say this book was more character driven than having a real plot. Quentin essentially suffers 'instalove' when he first sees Anora and that's the basis around the plot. How their lives become intertwined and they get to know one another. I also think the 'big reveal' was done a little too quickly without much emotion from the FMC or much reaction. Everything was quite predictable and there were no plot twists that left my jaw on the floor.
The Spice:
"Eyes on me."
For a book that is considered a dark romance and comes with a list of trigger warnings however, I'd say this was actually quite mild. The spicy scenes didn't go on for many pages despite the build up and tension. There wasn't really that much detail within the scenes and the only real kinks explored was a mask and bound wrists - maybe I've just been spoilt as I read a lot of darker stuff.
Summary:
I've given this book 3.5 stars. The writing style was simple to follow and I never felt bored when reading it - I have also highlighted an abundance of quotes that I was absolutely in love with! Quentin was a great MMC and I enjoyed following his journey and growth. I do feel there needed to be more action given Quentin's lust for ending lives. I'd like to know more about Anora and possibly see where their journey takes them moving forward. I think this author has made a promising start in the world of dark romance and look forward to seeing what else they bring to the table.
March 30, 2025
First off thank you NetGalley & Azala Romance for this opportunity to read this book.
Second I already knew after reading Vera’s first book that I was going to love this one. And boy did I. 🥵😍
Quentin was in his revenge era after his little sister was hurt. He was taking done every bad man out there. Especially the ones who were involved with his sister.
Until he spots Anora in the coffee shop. Then his motives change to get to know her. And boy does he push his way into her life.
But will she accept him and the path he’s been on?
“This man has just made it to the top of my shit list.” - Anora
This scene had me screaming and laughing 🤣🤣
Must read and also read her first book. 💕
Second I already knew after reading Vera’s first book that I was going to love this one. And boy did I. 🥵😍
Quentin was in his revenge era after his little sister was hurt. He was taking done every bad man out there. Especially the ones who were involved with his sister.
Until he spots Anora in the coffee shop. Then his motives change to get to know her. And boy does he push his way into her life.
But will she accept him and the path he’s been on?
“This man has just made it to the top of my shit list.” - Anora
This scene had me screaming and laughing 🤣🤣
Must read and also read her first book. 💕
April 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Azala Romance for the ARC copy.
I really, really, loved this story! For such a such short book - borderline Novella, it was very impactful.
It had everything you could love about a Dark Romance; the only thing keeping me from giving it 5 stars is that I just wanted MORE.
I would have loved another 200 pages of the build up, the background, the banter, the romance, the Slasher, the spice, the characters. The story was soooo good I couldn't put it down, but I just needed more.
For a quick and fun Dark Romance this is a must read for sure.
I really, really, loved this story! For such a such short book - borderline Novella, it was very impactful.
It had everything you could love about a Dark Romance; the only thing keeping me from giving it 5 stars is that I just wanted MORE.
I would have loved another 200 pages of the build up, the background, the banter, the romance, the Slasher, the spice, the characters. The story was soooo good I couldn't put it down, but I just needed more.
For a quick and fun Dark Romance this is a must read for sure.
May 1, 2025
The FBI agent that’s assigned to my phone is going to flag me for this but, I wanted the stalking bit to last longer in this book!
Quentin’s “normal” quirks of anxiety about talking to a beautiful woman and being loved by her was so precious. I truly loved his character. On the other hand I felt like Anore lacked enough character for me to become attached
I do understand this was a novella but I definitely would have loved to see this be longer to extend on different plot points!
Will definitely be rereading this closer to Halloween time!
Thank you to NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.
Quentin’s “normal” quirks of anxiety about talking to a beautiful woman and being loved by her was so precious. I truly loved his character. On the other hand I felt like Anore lacked enough character for me to become attached
I do understand this was a novella but I definitely would have loved to see this be longer to extend on different plot points!
Will definitely be rereading this closer to Halloween time!
Thank you to NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.
March 29, 2025
This was such a solid, fantastic read. It’s a Slasher/Stalker romance that kinda has a forced proximity in the start but their relationship starts so weirdly that by the time they get together it so weirdly endearing. I enjoyed that we got some backstory and also that the plot itself was moving forward with just enough spice. Definitely enjoyed the pining he had for her. There can never be enough pining.
I do think that there could have been more development with the characters and the storyline. It did feel rushed and that there could be a lot more instances of him trying to dodge his kills with juggling the buddying relationship. It would have added more depth to it. But it still kept pace if a tad too fast.
MILD SPOILER OF EPILOGUE BELOW—-
I was a tad surprised at the epilogue baby though. Usually that’s not a trope within the serial killer type romance unless there is heavy erm breeding kink mentioned in the storyline.
Overall, this is definitely going to my trophy shelf and buying a paperback when it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher for this eARC and this review is my honest opinion.
I do think that there could have been more development with the characters and the storyline. It did feel rushed and that there could be a lot more instances of him trying to dodge his kills with juggling the buddying relationship. It would have added more depth to it. But it still kept pace if a tad too fast.
MILD SPOILER OF EPILOGUE BELOW—-
I was a tad surprised at the epilogue baby though. Usually that’s not a trope within the serial killer type romance unless there is heavy erm breeding kink mentioned in the storyline.
Overall, this is definitely going to my trophy shelf and buying a paperback when it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher for this eARC and this review is my honest opinion.
April 17, 2025
ARC Review: ⭐️3.5 (Access granted by NetGalley)
Completely Honest Review / Spoilers
“For every girl whose watched Scream and fantasized about Billy Loomis. This one is for you.”
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book, I feel very privileged to have been able to receive it pre publishing date!
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book it was very easy to read and a pretty quick read. I really liked the storyline it was giving vibes of Lights Out + Butcher & Blackbird which I am so here for as I loved both of these books. Both the FMC and MMC were really easy to like. I really did enjoy this book and it kept me entertained throughout.
However, I do have some issues with it and because I am a big advocate for growth, development and honest reviews I cannot miss past the issues I had while reading this book AND that is not to say anything bad about it because I genuinely did enjoy it however, it was missing some things and if it wasn’t the rating would have been significantly higher. Please bare in mind this is my own personal opinion and everyone is entitled to their own views on how they like their books to play out.
Storyline: Anora is on a first date at a coffee shop, Quin sees her and instantly becomes obsessed. He nicknames her ‘Little Moon’ after the first ever encounter at the coffee shop. Her date was rude to her so Quin offed him. Said date is cousins with Anoras boss and her boss was the one to set the date up. Quin is a serial killer who kills bad guys from the underworld because his sister was murdered by her boyfriend and his friends and he wanted revenge. Light stalking of FMC. Anora and Rory are roommates, Quin and Joey are roommates. Rory and Joey are dating and introduce the MCs to eachother at a party. MCs pretend to hit it off in front of their friends, eventually do hit it off and start dating. Aurora finds out Quin is a serial killer, she gets kidnapped by his enemies & rescued by Quin. They get married and have a baby.
- I feel like the book was quite rushed throughout and therefore, it didn’t really dive into some of the following issues.
- I think since this was a ‘stalker romance’ Quin should have stalked Anora a bit more than just the first sighting at the coffee shop which doesn’t really count because he was already at the coffee shop for a drink and didn’t go out of his way to go into the coffee shop to stalk Anora and then lurking in the shadows outside the boutique and then coincidentally being introduced at the party by his and hers best friends. That last encounter doesn’t really count either as they were introduced to one another and Quin didn’t actually ‘stalk’ her to the party because it was at his apartment nor did he know Anora was going to be on the roof when he had gone out there to get some air.
- Also how the heck did he end up in her kitchen making breakfast for her and her roommate and her boyfriend/his best friend after the so called 1st double date? Where was the explanation for that development? How did it happen? I don’t understand… Did Rory and Joey invite him back after the double date to stay over because they wanted to MC to hit it off? Did he break into her apartment after they went to sleep? HOW did it happen I need an explanation, the backstory for that event was absent. Mind you Anora left the restaurant before the rest of the group and was alone in the apartment that night. Woke up to Quin in the kitchen unexplained and Rory and Joey staying over which also was unusual and those two usually stay at the boys apartment. So how did this conspire? Did Quin get invited over by the couple? Did he break in, in the middle of the night and then sleep on the couch??
- Running off the previous point, Anora slept in Quins hoodie after the double date cause he had given it to her because she was cold when they were walking to the restaurant, and he somehow appeared in her kitchen making breakfast the following morning, why the hell did Anora not question him? Why did she let it slide like nothing happened other than cussing in her POV? And why did she go along with the impression that the two had slept together infront of Rory and Joey just because she slept in his hoodie and he appeared in the kitchen shirtless in the morning without a damn explanation???? Why did she not react to it? Anora let it slide and the event wasn’t revisited later? I’m confused.
- Why did Anora keep hanging out alone with Quin to feed into the assumption for their friends that they were hitting it off? Even though we didn’t get an explanation of why they were portraying themselves as hitting it off to their friends when at the time they barely even spoke to eachother. She was constantly saying she was scared of him so why would he spend time alone with him if she was scared? Why did they continue to hang out alone and not talk to eachother when the other two weren’t in their presence. They had time alone so why did Anora stay quiet and not pull Quin up on his stunt that led to that assumption on their friends? Why didn’t she cuss him out for allowing them to assume that they slept together after the double date when Anora left the restaurant before the others and went home alone and didn’t even know Rory and Joey had come back to their apartment when they usually stay at Joeys and Quins place?
- I feel like Anora forgave Quin far to easily there was basically no grovelling which would have benefited the storyline / story telling massively. Like Quin tells you he’s the Slasher that’s been killing disgusting men from the underworld all because his sister was killed and you’re telling me she didn’t react in a more dramatic way when being told he’s a serial killer? Or the fact that she forgave him in about 3 days and all she needed was space 0 grovelling occurred.
- The story line about his sister being killed by her boyfriend and his friends because the boyfriend thought it would be funny to scare her and his friends had another idea and all parties including said boyfriend raped her, passed her round the group then beat her to a pulp and left her to die? What happened there? There was no further information provided regarding that storyline, it was the sole reason Quin started to kill so I thought there would be more, like hello one of the people who killed his sister was her own boyfriend so how did that conspire?
- Also when Quin killed Anora’s blind date with her bosses cousin and she found out about that why didn’t he tell her that he too was a bad man and just went along with the only reason he was killed was because of the date and not telling Anora that he was a disgusting pig towards women aswell as him being simply rude to her on their first date? I just don’t understand why Quin didn’t tell her surely it would have painted him in a better light than letting her think he was killed simply because he was rude to her on their date?
- When Anora was kidnapped and was captive for serval says we didn’t really get a deep deception of what exactly was happening to her during the captivity just basic ground information. We also didn’t get Quins POV much while Anora was captive, she’s his love interest and we didn’t get much of him panicking and trying to find her for days on end to then finally find her on the day she is set to die if he doesn’t show up because his hacker gets the footage.
- The book had minimal tension between the characters, they spent a lot of time as a group and then alone without the other couple and the tension was just lacking for me.
- The book was also a little predictable.
Overall, I feel like there should have been more stalking, more event development as some events and how they occurred were just not explained and it would have only benefited the storyline, I think the book also would have been better if we got some more killing events, he was a serial killer but we didn’t really get that side of him much and the bits we did get weren’t very descriptive. Also, the spicy bits were good but they were lacking too, they would have benefited with more description of the play by play. Additionally, the ending felt rushed more so than the rest of the book. It just had a lot of gaps which were not filled in and events that weren’t explained. Missing them out only hurt the storyline a bit because if we got those missing gaps filled in it would have easily kicked this up to a 4 star read and up to 4.5 stars if we got more descriptive writing and more of the plot development.
Please do not take anything I say to heart, it is simply a honest review with constructive criticism. It is feedback for next time to be able to improve the books that follow. This is my opinion and everyone is entitled to their own. I do not mean any harm at all I just wanted to give a real, raw and honest review. This is also not to say I didn’t enjoy it because I defo did I mean I read it in a day hello? It’s just constructive feedback.
Again, thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy I am so so grateful for being able to have read this book before its publication date.
Completely Honest Review / Spoilers
“For every girl whose watched Scream and fantasized about Billy Loomis. This one is for you.”
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book, I feel very privileged to have been able to receive it pre publishing date!
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book it was very easy to read and a pretty quick read. I really liked the storyline it was giving vibes of Lights Out + Butcher & Blackbird which I am so here for as I loved both of these books. Both the FMC and MMC were really easy to like. I really did enjoy this book and it kept me entertained throughout.
However, I do have some issues with it and because I am a big advocate for growth, development and honest reviews I cannot miss past the issues I had while reading this book AND that is not to say anything bad about it because I genuinely did enjoy it however, it was missing some things and if it wasn’t the rating would have been significantly higher. Please bare in mind this is my own personal opinion and everyone is entitled to their own views on how they like their books to play out.
Storyline: Anora is on a first date at a coffee shop, Quin sees her and instantly becomes obsessed. He nicknames her ‘Little Moon’ after the first ever encounter at the coffee shop. Her date was rude to her so Quin offed him. Said date is cousins with Anoras boss and her boss was the one to set the date up. Quin is a serial killer who kills bad guys from the underworld because his sister was murdered by her boyfriend and his friends and he wanted revenge. Light stalking of FMC. Anora and Rory are roommates, Quin and Joey are roommates. Rory and Joey are dating and introduce the MCs to eachother at a party. MCs pretend to hit it off in front of their friends, eventually do hit it off and start dating. Aurora finds out Quin is a serial killer, she gets kidnapped by his enemies & rescued by Quin. They get married and have a baby.
- I feel like the book was quite rushed throughout and therefore, it didn’t really dive into some of the following issues.
- I think since this was a ‘stalker romance’ Quin should have stalked Anora a bit more than just the first sighting at the coffee shop which doesn’t really count because he was already at the coffee shop for a drink and didn’t go out of his way to go into the coffee shop to stalk Anora and then lurking in the shadows outside the boutique and then coincidentally being introduced at the party by his and hers best friends. That last encounter doesn’t really count either as they were introduced to one another and Quin didn’t actually ‘stalk’ her to the party because it was at his apartment nor did he know Anora was going to be on the roof when he had gone out there to get some air.
- Also how the heck did he end up in her kitchen making breakfast for her and her roommate and her boyfriend/his best friend after the so called 1st double date? Where was the explanation for that development? How did it happen? I don’t understand… Did Rory and Joey invite him back after the double date to stay over because they wanted to MC to hit it off? Did he break into her apartment after they went to sleep? HOW did it happen I need an explanation, the backstory for that event was absent. Mind you Anora left the restaurant before the rest of the group and was alone in the apartment that night. Woke up to Quin in the kitchen unexplained and Rory and Joey staying over which also was unusual and those two usually stay at the boys apartment. So how did this conspire? Did Quin get invited over by the couple? Did he break in, in the middle of the night and then sleep on the couch??
- Running off the previous point, Anora slept in Quins hoodie after the double date cause he had given it to her because she was cold when they were walking to the restaurant, and he somehow appeared in her kitchen making breakfast the following morning, why the hell did Anora not question him? Why did she let it slide like nothing happened other than cussing in her POV? And why did she go along with the impression that the two had slept together infront of Rory and Joey just because she slept in his hoodie and he appeared in the kitchen shirtless in the morning without a damn explanation???? Why did she not react to it? Anora let it slide and the event wasn’t revisited later? I’m confused.
- Why did Anora keep hanging out alone with Quin to feed into the assumption for their friends that they were hitting it off? Even though we didn’t get an explanation of why they were portraying themselves as hitting it off to their friends when at the time they barely even spoke to eachother. She was constantly saying she was scared of him so why would he spend time alone with him if she was scared? Why did they continue to hang out alone and not talk to eachother when the other two weren’t in their presence. They had time alone so why did Anora stay quiet and not pull Quin up on his stunt that led to that assumption on their friends? Why didn’t she cuss him out for allowing them to assume that they slept together after the double date when Anora left the restaurant before the others and went home alone and didn’t even know Rory and Joey had come back to their apartment when they usually stay at Joeys and Quins place?
- I feel like Anora forgave Quin far to easily there was basically no grovelling which would have benefited the storyline / story telling massively. Like Quin tells you he’s the Slasher that’s been killing disgusting men from the underworld all because his sister was killed and you’re telling me she didn’t react in a more dramatic way when being told he’s a serial killer? Or the fact that she forgave him in about 3 days and all she needed was space 0 grovelling occurred.
- The story line about his sister being killed by her boyfriend and his friends because the boyfriend thought it would be funny to scare her and his friends had another idea and all parties including said boyfriend raped her, passed her round the group then beat her to a pulp and left her to die? What happened there? There was no further information provided regarding that storyline, it was the sole reason Quin started to kill so I thought there would be more, like hello one of the people who killed his sister was her own boyfriend so how did that conspire?
- Also when Quin killed Anora’s blind date with her bosses cousin and she found out about that why didn’t he tell her that he too was a bad man and just went along with the only reason he was killed was because of the date and not telling Anora that he was a disgusting pig towards women aswell as him being simply rude to her on their first date? I just don’t understand why Quin didn’t tell her surely it would have painted him in a better light than letting her think he was killed simply because he was rude to her on their date?
- When Anora was kidnapped and was captive for serval says we didn’t really get a deep deception of what exactly was happening to her during the captivity just basic ground information. We also didn’t get Quins POV much while Anora was captive, she’s his love interest and we didn’t get much of him panicking and trying to find her for days on end to then finally find her on the day she is set to die if he doesn’t show up because his hacker gets the footage.
- The book had minimal tension between the characters, they spent a lot of time as a group and then alone without the other couple and the tension was just lacking for me.
- The book was also a little predictable.
Overall, I feel like there should have been more stalking, more event development as some events and how they occurred were just not explained and it would have only benefited the storyline, I think the book also would have been better if we got some more killing events, he was a serial killer but we didn’t really get that side of him much and the bits we did get weren’t very descriptive. Also, the spicy bits were good but they were lacking too, they would have benefited with more description of the play by play. Additionally, the ending felt rushed more so than the rest of the book. It just had a lot of gaps which were not filled in and events that weren’t explained. Missing them out only hurt the storyline a bit because if we got those missing gaps filled in it would have easily kicked this up to a 4 star read and up to 4.5 stars if we got more descriptive writing and more of the plot development.
Please do not take anything I say to heart, it is simply a honest review with constructive criticism. It is feedback for next time to be able to improve the books that follow. This is my opinion and everyone is entitled to their own. I do not mean any harm at all I just wanted to give a real, raw and honest review. This is also not to say I didn’t enjoy it because I defo did I mean I read it in a day hello? It’s just constructive feedback.
Again, thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy I am so so grateful for being able to have read this book before its publication date.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
"Yours to Take" by Vera Kane is a thrilling, passionate rollercoaster that will leave you breathless from start to finish. Set against the gritty backdrop of Portland's underbelly, Kane weaves a tale of vengeance, redemption, and unexpected love that's impossible to put down.
Quentin and Anora's relationship is the heart of this novel, sizzling with chemistry that leaps off the page. Their connection evolves from a spark to a raging inferno, with Kane masterfully building tension until it explodes in moments of raw, steamy intimacy. The infamous shower scene alone is worth the price of admission - prepare to fan yourself and giggle and kick your feet.
Kane's pacing is impeccable, balancing heart-pounding action with quieter moments of emotional depth. The looming threat hanging over Quentin (If you love Ghostface, you will love Q) keeps you on edge, while Anora's journey of self-discovery adds a layer of relatability to this dark romance. As Quentin grapples with his past and Anora fights to see the man beneath the mask, readers will find themselves fully invested in their struggle to rebuild trust and forge a future together.
The author's attention to sensory details brings Portland to life in vivid color, from the rain-slicked streets to the pulsing energy of parties. You'll feel as though you're walking alongside Quentin and Anora, experiencing every sight, sound, and touch right along with them.
"Yours to Take" is a quick read that hooks you from the first page and doesn't let go until the very end. Kane has crafted a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and character growth that will satisfy even the most discerning reader of dark romantic suspense. Clear your schedule this spooky season - once you start this book, you won't be able to stop until you've devoured every last word.
Quentin and Anora's relationship is the heart of this novel, sizzling with chemistry that leaps off the page. Their connection evolves from a spark to a raging inferno, with Kane masterfully building tension until it explodes in moments of raw, steamy intimacy. The infamous shower scene alone is worth the price of admission - prepare to fan yourself and giggle and kick your feet.
Kane's pacing is impeccable, balancing heart-pounding action with quieter moments of emotional depth. The looming threat hanging over Quentin (If you love Ghostface, you will love Q) keeps you on edge, while Anora's journey of self-discovery adds a layer of relatability to this dark romance. As Quentin grapples with his past and Anora fights to see the man beneath the mask, readers will find themselves fully invested in their struggle to rebuild trust and forge a future together.
The author's attention to sensory details brings Portland to life in vivid color, from the rain-slicked streets to the pulsing energy of parties. You'll feel as though you're walking alongside Quentin and Anora, experiencing every sight, sound, and touch right along with them.
"Yours to Take" is a quick read that hooks you from the first page and doesn't let go until the very end. Kane has crafted a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and character growth that will satisfy even the most discerning reader of dark romantic suspense. Clear your schedule this spooky season - once you start this book, you won't be able to stop until you've devoured every last word.
May 25, 2025
I liked it but honestly I don't remember much of it after two months. I do know that MMC is a serial killer who is growing tired of doing it. I felt like he was a tired Dexter; he needed to kill, he had that hunger inside of him, but at the same time, he was tortured doing that because of his past. So meeting FMC gave him reprieve. The story reads quickly,y but I felt like it was at times underdeveloped and some actions needed better reasoning (
3.5-4 stars.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5-4 stars.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 28, 2024
Thank you so much Vera for letting me be an ARC READER for you! I can't wait to see what else you come up with. With that said here's my thoughts:
Yours to Take was a great story line and I loved the concept of the movie scream being adapted to a dark romance. However, I needed more...much more.
I felt like the love story was rushed and I didn't connect with the characters because of lack of story.
I would have loved to read more about Quentins backstory and why he became who he was.
I don't know Anora like at all! I feel like her occupation was just thrown in there at the end without much else about her.
I wish this would have been a duology because I feel like there could have been a good amount of back story for Quentin alone that could have built up the first book as well as his stalking of Anora. I would have loved to see Anora while they were talking on online and how she was handling it after they broke up. I felt like her experience being captured was rushed and the feeling she was having after being rescued were valid but I don't think what she went through while captured came through on the pages.
Again, thank you for letting me read this book and I can not wait to see what else you come up with Vera! 😀
Yours to Take was a great story line and I loved the concept of the movie scream being adapted to a dark romance. However, I needed more...much more.
I felt like the love story was rushed and I didn't connect with the characters because of lack of story.
I would have loved to read more about Quentins backstory and why he became who he was.
I don't know Anora like at all! I feel like her occupation was just thrown in there at the end without much else about her.
I wish this would have been a duology because I feel like there could have been a good amount of back story for Quentin alone that could have built up the first book as well as his stalking of Anora. I would have loved to see Anora while they were talking on online and how she was handling it after they broke up. I felt like her experience being captured was rushed and the feeling she was having after being rescued were valid but I don't think what she went through while captured came through on the pages.
Again, thank you for letting me read this book and I can not wait to see what else you come up with Vera! 😀
August 30, 2024
Vengeance, "Like a drug, I taste you on my tongue"...
🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op as well as Vera Kane for the ARC of “Yours to Take” for my review consideration. The ARC Review in no way impacts the rating of the book. All opinions are my own .
Pub Date: Sep 19 2024.
Klaus Mikaelson + Billy Loomis = Ovaries Exploding!
Set against the moody backdrop of Portland, OR, Vera Kane had my heart racing like I was the typical "white girl" in almost every horror movie running from the killer who then trips and falls with a hurt foot, ankle or whatever.... you know the type of scenes I am talking about.
Quentin was a fresh twist on the character archetype "The Trickster" for me! Mischievous and cunning he disrupts status quo in search of those who harmed and tore the only family he had into and are the dregs of society. Toss in unexpected actions of the man behind the mask and it was a well-balanced Jekyll and Hyde character for me in the best ways. I could easily follow along to who I was reading and when! OH…… AND HE CAN COOK !
Anora, was an odd character in all my favorite ways and bounced between the archetype “The Innocent” and “The Rebel” to being a femme fatale in the mysterious way. I was caught off guard more than once with her reactions to events and knowledge she gained about others. I like that she was portrayed as a woman who readers can easily mentally vision while having a strong will to survive that tosses in twist on how you see her.
Quentin and Anora. Vera Kane did a A+ job on this twist and history to the main love interest characters.
CHAPTER 15! I LOVED IT! I’ve never been afraid of the dark…. Don’t you dare cry on my bacon! 🔥
That said, I had a small bones to pick.
ONE: Chapter 19. I longed for a way more action and intensity during that climactic warehouse scene—I was ready to be blown away! This was a significant place.....
Overall, "Yours to Take" is a captivating read that treads very lightly into brackish waters. With really unforgettable characters and some amazing twists to character development, this would be a great read for anyone who is trying to decide if they want to try "Horror style Romance.
🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op as well as Vera Kane for the ARC of “Yours to Take” for my review consideration. The ARC Review in no way impacts the rating of the book. All opinions are my own .
Pub Date: Sep 19 2024.
Klaus Mikaelson + Billy Loomis = Ovaries Exploding!
Set against the moody backdrop of Portland, OR, Vera Kane had my heart racing like I was the typical "white girl" in almost every horror movie running from the killer who then trips and falls with a hurt foot, ankle or whatever.... you know the type of scenes I am talking about.
Quentin was a fresh twist on the character archetype "The Trickster" for me! Mischievous and cunning he disrupts status quo in search of those who harmed and tore the only family he had into and are the dregs of society. Toss in unexpected actions of the man behind the mask and it was a well-balanced Jekyll and Hyde character for me in the best ways. I could easily follow along to who I was reading and when! OH…… AND HE CAN COOK !
Anora, was an odd character in all my favorite ways and bounced between the archetype “The Innocent” and “The Rebel” to being a femme fatale in the mysterious way. I was caught off guard more than once with her reactions to events and knowledge she gained about others. I like that she was portrayed as a woman who readers can easily mentally vision while having a strong will to survive that tosses in twist on how you see her.
Quentin and Anora. Vera Kane did a A+ job on this twist and history to the main love interest characters.
CHAPTER 15! I LOVED IT! I’ve never been afraid of the dark…. Don’t you dare cry on my bacon! 🔥
That said, I had a small bones to pick.
ONE: Chapter 19. I longed for a way more action and intensity during that climactic warehouse scene—I was ready to be blown away! This was a significant place.....
Overall, "Yours to Take" is a captivating read that treads very lightly into brackish waters. With really unforgettable characters and some amazing twists to character development, this would be a great read for anyone who is trying to decide if they want to try "Horror style Romance.
June 20, 2025
For Fans of:
- Haunting Adeline
- No Saints
This book is about a man looking to average his kid sister after she tragically dies at the hands of evil actors. After years in the dark, he meets Anora and is convinced - for the first time since his sister's death - that there is life outside of revenge. But can their love survive their secrets?
This book includes;
- Gore
- TW TW TW
- Instant Love
- fake dating?????
- serial killer MMC
- dumb FMC
This book has a very specific audience. I am imagining 45 yo millennial wine moms, but that may be reductive. Regardless, this is a Y/N self insert type of book. Anora is what I can only describe as listless, devoid of motivation or personality. Quinten is one dimensional and at one point he says his idol is Green Arrow from the CW...That was so unsettling that I had to put the book down and touch grass because you're not gonna mention 2010s pop culture references from CW!! of all places and get away with it on my watch.
For the romance parts, there was little to no chemistry between the characters, romantic or otherwise. Its basically isntant love from the get go even from her POV. They go from hello to in love in 10 seconds. I think there was a poor attempt at fake dating for a second, but it was so poorly executed that it is hard to tell. The interactions between Anora and Quinten were very awkward and the dialogue was so forced and stilted that I had to re-read dialogue sometimes just out of shock. The *love* scenes wersomee corny and cringy and gross at the same time. So while I am sure this book will find itself many fans, I am really not one of them.
I received this eBook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley,Vera Kane, and Azala Romance for the opportunity to review this book. This review has been posted to GoodReads check out my profile https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/6... and it will be posted to my bookstagram account https://www.instagram.com/tinynightin... and booktok https://www.tiktok.com/@tinynightinga...
- Haunting Adeline
- No Saints
This book is about a man looking to average his kid sister after she tragically dies at the hands of evil actors. After years in the dark, he meets Anora and is convinced - for the first time since his sister's death - that there is life outside of revenge. But can their love survive their secrets?
This book includes;
- Gore
- TW TW TW
- Instant Love
- fake dating?????
- serial killer MMC
- dumb FMC
This book has a very specific audience. I am imagining 45 yo millennial wine moms, but that may be reductive. Regardless, this is a Y/N self insert type of book. Anora is what I can only describe as listless, devoid of motivation or personality. Quinten is one dimensional and at one point he says his idol is Green Arrow from the CW...That was so unsettling that I had to put the book down and touch grass because you're not gonna mention 2010s pop culture references from CW!! of all places and get away with it on my watch.
For the romance parts, there was little to no chemistry between the characters, romantic or otherwise. Its basically isntant love from the get go even from her POV. They go from hello to in love in 10 seconds. I think there was a poor attempt at fake dating for a second, but it was so poorly executed that it is hard to tell. The interactions between Anora and Quinten were very awkward and the dialogue was so forced and stilted that I had to re-read dialogue sometimes just out of shock. The *love* scenes wersomee corny and cringy and gross at the same time. So while I am sure this book will find itself many fans, I am really not one of them.
I received this eBook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley,Vera Kane, and Azala Romance for the opportunity to review this book. This review has been posted to GoodReads check out my profile https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/6... and it will be posted to my bookstagram account https://www.instagram.com/tinynightin... and booktok https://www.tiktok.com/@tinynightinga...
April 13, 2025
Yours to Take by Vera Kane is a dark romance that somehow manages to be intense, emotional, and a little bit unhinged in the best way possible.😻
I was blessed by being able to eARC this book—Thanks Kane💖💖.
It gave me serious Wattpad energy—which might sound like a dig, but honestly? It was kind of a vibe.
That chaotic, slightly over-the-top storytelling had me laughing, cringing, and fully hooked.
This book lives and breathes through its characters. Quentin and Anora? Obsessed. 🙏
Their dynamic is electric from the start, full of tension, danger, and desire. Kane did an amazing job capturing that delicious push-and-pull where you’re not sure if they’re going to kiss or kill each other—and somehow you’re rooting for both. The darker elements added weight without making it feel overly heavy or bleak. There’s trauma, power plays, and emotional baggage, but also moments of sharp wit and genuine connection that keep things from getting too grim.
One of the things I loved most was how the story kept building—not just in plot, but in emotional intensity. It starts off intriguing, then slowly turns the heat up until you’re fully immersed in their twisted little world. And the humor? Surprisingly on point. Even in the darker moments, the banter or absurdity of certain situations made me smirk. It’s like Kane knew exactly when to let the characters breathe, even if just for a second.
If you’re into dark romance with messy, magnetic characters, addictive tension, and just the right touch of chaos, Yours to Take delivers. It’s not perfect—but that’s kind of the point. It’s raw, dramatic, and a little wild, and I loved every second of it.
I was blessed by being able to eARC this book—Thanks Kane💖💖.
It gave me serious Wattpad energy—which might sound like a dig, but honestly? It was kind of a vibe.
That chaotic, slightly over-the-top storytelling had me laughing, cringing, and fully hooked.
This book lives and breathes through its characters. Quentin and Anora? Obsessed. 🙏
Their dynamic is electric from the start, full of tension, danger, and desire. Kane did an amazing job capturing that delicious push-and-pull where you’re not sure if they’re going to kiss or kill each other—and somehow you’re rooting for both. The darker elements added weight without making it feel overly heavy or bleak. There’s trauma, power plays, and emotional baggage, but also moments of sharp wit and genuine connection that keep things from getting too grim.
One of the things I loved most was how the story kept building—not just in plot, but in emotional intensity. It starts off intriguing, then slowly turns the heat up until you’re fully immersed in their twisted little world. And the humor? Surprisingly on point. Even in the darker moments, the banter or absurdity of certain situations made me smirk. It’s like Kane knew exactly when to let the characters breathe, even if just for a second.
If you’re into dark romance with messy, magnetic characters, addictive tension, and just the right touch of chaos, Yours to Take delivers. It’s not perfect—but that’s kind of the point. It’s raw, dramatic, and a little wild, and I loved every second of it.
April 2, 2025
Had me until the ending!
I loved reading this book from the literal first page! The dedication had me...the playlist at the start I thought was amazing as well!
I loved how honest Anora was in facing her "light stalker" Quentin. Failed previous dating attempts, a dark attractive stranger, an attempt at self preservation only to realise they're so much more connected than she thought! I even found myself justifying Quentin's actions (mostly) as we learn more about him.
What I found wanting, and the only reason for the 3 stars, was the ending. I found it rushed, abrupt, and didn't match the tone of the rest of the book.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The Portland Slasher was a character of patience, resolve, and vengeance. The way Angel was just dispatched so quickly was really unsatisfying for me and was a glaring disconnect with the rest of the book and the slasher's character. I found myself asking why we spent so much time learning about the slasher: his reputation for taking his time and terrifying his targets with his taunting only for this final kill to just...end.
Anora's journey to healing was realistic, and her getting back to Quentin I found to be totally justified. But then, she just went to his apartment and had a shower...and that was it! After the steamy romance in this book it ended with a shower...and then pregnancy?! The whole dark feel of the book seemed to be thrown right out the window which unfortunately just put a bitter taste in my mouth. Not everything needs to be finished with a cute bow, and I feel this novel would've hit a lot harder if it would've ended with the same vibe that it started.
I loved reading this book from the literal first page! The dedication had me...the playlist at the start I thought was amazing as well!
I loved how honest Anora was in facing her "light stalker" Quentin. Failed previous dating attempts, a dark attractive stranger, an attempt at self preservation only to realise they're so much more connected than she thought! I even found myself justifying Quentin's actions (mostly) as we learn more about him.
What I found wanting, and the only reason for the 3 stars, was the ending. I found it rushed, abrupt, and didn't match the tone of the rest of the book.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The Portland Slasher was a character of patience, resolve, and vengeance. The way Angel was just dispatched so quickly was really unsatisfying for me and was a glaring disconnect with the rest of the book and the slasher's character. I found myself asking why we spent so much time learning about the slasher: his reputation for taking his time and terrifying his targets with his taunting only for this final kill to just...end.
Anora's journey to healing was realistic, and her getting back to Quentin I found to be totally justified. But then, she just went to his apartment and had a shower...and that was it! After the steamy romance in this book it ended with a shower...and then pregnancy?! The whole dark feel of the book seemed to be thrown right out the window which unfortunately just put a bitter taste in my mouth. Not everything needs to be finished with a cute bow, and I feel this novel would've hit a lot harder if it would've ended with the same vibe that it started.
April 21, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the Author for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
This book had a lot of potential. It would have had a significantly better rating if the author had fleshed and developed the plot and the characters further. I liked the push and pull between the characters but I still find myself wishing for the story to have been deeper.
Anora, Our FMC, is a clothing designer. She encounters our MMC, Quentin, while on a date that was set up through her boss. Quentin is immediately drawn to her and dislikes the way that her date treated her. He absolutely "has" to fix this issue, and this forms the beginning of their stalker serial killer and obsession dance. Quentin is very inconspicuous by day, and absolutely unhinged at night/when the situation calls for it.
As I said, this book could have been fleshed out a lot more, and this is shown very early on when Quentin.. our serial killer of several years decides to unsafely kill the dude that treated Anora wrong. I have to admit.. if he has been doing this without getting caught for years.. he'd know how to make this look like anything but what it is.. a crime of impulsivity. I would have thought that Quentin would have taken the time to draw things out. I would have also thought that Quentin would have built up the darkness in Anora before revealing that he was the serial killer that everyone is looking for.
Spice wise, it was a lowish spice dark romance.
Look.. the book had a decent premise, and I love dark romance.. but it definitely could have been significantly more fleshed out. I would even rereview this if it were fleshed out further.
3.5 Stars
This book had a lot of potential. It would have had a significantly better rating if the author had fleshed and developed the plot and the characters further. I liked the push and pull between the characters but I still find myself wishing for the story to have been deeper.
Anora, Our FMC, is a clothing designer. She encounters our MMC, Quentin, while on a date that was set up through her boss. Quentin is immediately drawn to her and dislikes the way that her date treated her. He absolutely "has" to fix this issue, and this forms the beginning of their stalker serial killer and obsession dance. Quentin is very inconspicuous by day, and absolutely unhinged at night/when the situation calls for it.
As I said, this book could have been fleshed out a lot more, and this is shown very early on when Quentin.. our serial killer of several years decides to unsafely kill the dude that treated Anora wrong. I have to admit.. if he has been doing this without getting caught for years.. he'd know how to make this look like anything but what it is.. a crime of impulsivity. I would have thought that Quentin would have taken the time to draw things out. I would have also thought that Quentin would have built up the darkness in Anora before revealing that he was the serial killer that everyone is looking for.
Spice wise, it was a lowish spice dark romance.
Look.. the book had a decent premise, and I love dark romance.. but it definitely could have been significantly more fleshed out. I would even rereview this if it were fleshed out further.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
**Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the eARC**
**May have spoilers**
I just finished *Yours to Take* by Vera Kane, and WOW—I’m honestly still catching my breath! Quentin and Anora’s journey had me completely absorbed from start to finish.
Anora's conflicting feelings—both drawn to and intimidated by Quentin—felt incredibly real. Watching their complicated relationship evolve from guarded attraction into genuine trust and passion was amazing. The intimacy between them was off-the-charts intense; the chemistry, heat, and raw emotion made their romantic scenes absolutely unforgettable.
Their bond grew beautifully over time, becoming deeper and more authentic. I adored seeing Quentin open up, even temporarily moving in with Anora and sharing their lives together. But the tension escalated sharply when Quentin finally revealed his dark secret: that he was the notorious Portland Slasher. I held my breath during this revelation, but loved that Anora chose to stay with him, despite knowing everything. Her unconditional love moved me deeply.
My heart stopped when Anora was kidnapped by Angel, a target of Quentin’s revenge, who tortured her to provoke Quentin. Quentin’s desperation and determination to rescue her—with Brendan and Joey’s unwavering support—had me on the edge of my seat.
The ending warmed my heart: Quentin and Anora remaining together, committed and building a family, was exactly the closure I needed. *Yours to Take* delivered romance, passion, suspense, and emotional depth—I'm genuinely thrilled I read it!
**May have spoilers**
I just finished *Yours to Take* by Vera Kane, and WOW—I’m honestly still catching my breath! Quentin and Anora’s journey had me completely absorbed from start to finish.
Anora's conflicting feelings—both drawn to and intimidated by Quentin—felt incredibly real. Watching their complicated relationship evolve from guarded attraction into genuine trust and passion was amazing. The intimacy between them was off-the-charts intense; the chemistry, heat, and raw emotion made their romantic scenes absolutely unforgettable.
Their bond grew beautifully over time, becoming deeper and more authentic. I adored seeing Quentin open up, even temporarily moving in with Anora and sharing their lives together. But the tension escalated sharply when Quentin finally revealed his dark secret: that he was the notorious Portland Slasher. I held my breath during this revelation, but loved that Anora chose to stay with him, despite knowing everything. Her unconditional love moved me deeply.
My heart stopped when Anora was kidnapped by Angel, a target of Quentin’s revenge, who tortured her to provoke Quentin. Quentin’s desperation and determination to rescue her—with Brendan and Joey’s unwavering support—had me on the edge of my seat.
The ending warmed my heart: Quentin and Anora remaining together, committed and building a family, was exactly the closure I needed. *Yours to Take* delivered romance, passion, suspense, and emotional depth—I'm genuinely thrilled I read it!
April 23, 2025
I was able to get this as an ARC through NetGalley.
Please pay attention to the triggers if you have any.
This was such an amazing book! For anyone that has the love of masked morally grey men that are obsessed with their women; this is for you!! From the very beginning of the book with the song Playlist until the last page I couldn’t wait to see what happened.
Starting out like the horror movie “Scream” and then getting the introduction to Quentin and who he was and his backstory was a great way to start. Followed by the meeting of Anora and the instant obsession had me hooked.
Anora seems like your normal down on her luck girl just wanting to find her happiness. With her best friend and roommate, Rory living together in Portland they have to watch their backs as the Portland Slasher is killing men with histories of violence against women. After Anora’s blind date is discovered murdered and she keeps running into a stranger from the coffee shop.. is it all just some sort of joke or is Quentin as good of a man as he seems??
The love the blooms between the two has you rooting for their happy ending. With all the bumps they encounter along the way, I can’t recommend this book enough. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Please pay attention to the triggers if you have any.
This was such an amazing book! For anyone that has the love of masked morally grey men that are obsessed with their women; this is for you!! From the very beginning of the book with the song Playlist until the last page I couldn’t wait to see what happened.
Starting out like the horror movie “Scream” and then getting the introduction to Quentin and who he was and his backstory was a great way to start. Followed by the meeting of Anora and the instant obsession had me hooked.
Anora seems like your normal down on her luck girl just wanting to find her happiness. With her best friend and roommate, Rory living together in Portland they have to watch their backs as the Portland Slasher is killing men with histories of violence against women. After Anora’s blind date is discovered murdered and she keeps running into a stranger from the coffee shop.. is it all just some sort of joke or is Quentin as good of a man as he seems??
The love the blooms between the two has you rooting for their happy ending. With all the bumps they encounter along the way, I can’t recommend this book enough. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
May 6, 2025
ARC Review Yours To Take by Vera Kane
* * * * *
A spicy dark romance with touch her and d*e vibes, a touch of naughtiness and your taste of wickedness for the week.
Their unity was sealed over a bad date.
Not with each other though.
He was just there for a shot of caffine, she was the poor sod stuck talking to her blind date. Poor guy didn't stand a chance when she was more enchanted by the dangerous looking man across the coffee shop.
Anora has no idea how dangerous Quentin us.
Now was it coincidence that she started feeling like she was being watched? Followed? Most likely not.
She had better get used to it. Quentin was not going to easily give up watching his little moon. He was a man that protects what is his, especially from the scum of the earth. When his secrets and darkness start to come out of the shadows into Anora's world, his fear of losing her could be what truly tips his sanity.
A great hit of a dark romance that was perfect for my day. I needed a bit of violence, and cringy slimeballs who deserve what they get (to a degree) is just what I need some days.
The chemistry between our dark vigilante and his obession was fire! Not only was it hot, but the sweet open cuddle times got you all mushy!
* * * * *
A spicy dark romance with touch her and d*e vibes, a touch of naughtiness and your taste of wickedness for the week.
Their unity was sealed over a bad date.
Not with each other though.
He was just there for a shot of caffine, she was the poor sod stuck talking to her blind date. Poor guy didn't stand a chance when she was more enchanted by the dangerous looking man across the coffee shop.
Anora has no idea how dangerous Quentin us.
Now was it coincidence that she started feeling like she was being watched? Followed? Most likely not.
She had better get used to it. Quentin was not going to easily give up watching his little moon. He was a man that protects what is his, especially from the scum of the earth. When his secrets and darkness start to come out of the shadows into Anora's world, his fear of losing her could be what truly tips his sanity.
A great hit of a dark romance that was perfect for my day. I needed a bit of violence, and cringy slimeballs who deserve what they get (to a degree) is just what I need some days.
The chemistry between our dark vigilante and his obession was fire! Not only was it hot, but the sweet open cuddle times got you all mushy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews