What do you think?
Rate this book
Phobia
The adrenaline rush, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations.
The burst of pleasure, euphoria, and the loss of control.
Some say fear and the excitement of arousal come from the same place in the brain. Twelve of your favorite bestselling M/M and M/F authors agree.
Ashlyn Drewek, J. Dylan, Nyla K., Fae Quin, Victoria Woods, S.M. Landon, Michaela Cole, L.K. Reid, Roxanna C Revell, Hellie Heat, Marie Ann, and A.L. Woods have come together to bring you twelve deliciously spine-tingling phobia inspired novella-length dark romance stories featuring new and/or familiar characters. This is a dark romance anthology and as such, contains stories with situations, themes and references that some readers may find triggering or highly distressing. Reader discretion is strongly advised. For a detailed content warning, please check the author's respective websites and/or note the listed warnings within the table of contents.
The burst of pleasure, euphoria, and the loss of control.
Some say fear and the excitement of arousal come from the same place in the brain. Twelve of your favorite bestselling M/M and M/F authors agree.
Ashlyn Drewek, J. Dylan, Nyla K., Fae Quin, Victoria Woods, S.M. Landon, Michaela Cole, L.K. Reid, Roxanna C Revell, Hellie Heat, Marie Ann, and A.L. Woods have come together to bring you twelve deliciously spine-tingling phobia inspired novella-length dark romance stories featuring new and/or familiar characters. This is a dark romance anthology and as such, contains stories with situations, themes and references that some readers may find triggering or highly distressing. Reader discretion is strongly advised. For a detailed content warning, please check the author's respective websites and/or note the listed warnings within the table of contents.
789 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2023
137 people are currently reading
964 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Woods
12 books518 followersA.L. Woods is an international bestselling author of dark and contemporary rollercoaster romances, caffeine aficionado, and collector of Sailor Moon paraphernalia.
She lives outside of Toronto, Ontario with her 9lb larger-than-life miniature dachshund, Maia.
She believes that burritos should be in their own food group, loves the fall, winged liner, and listening to metalcore at an offensive level.
Website: https://amandawrites.ca/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-l-w...
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AmandaLWrites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandalwrites/
Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/22739...
She lives outside of Toronto, Ontario with her 9lb larger-than-life miniature dachshund, Maia.
She believes that burritos should be in their own food group, loves the fall, winged liner, and listening to metalcore at an offensive level.
Website: https://amandawrites.ca/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-l-w...
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AmandaLWrites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandalwrites/
Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/22739...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 11, 2023
Thoughts: I've only read the M/M stories in this, but I can tell you without a doubt that this has been the best anthology I've read to date. I have enjoyed it so so much. Highly recommend!
Faves: Mortem Obire, Mask of Sin & The Taste of Crimson
MORTEM OBIRE - Ashlyn Drewek (M/M) - 5 stars
I was sort of subconsciously leaving this one for last. And I’m glad I did. If you know me at all, I’m obsessed with all things Tennebrose. And damn, this did not disappoint. Not even a little bit. I loved this story. I enjoyed seeing Dr. Corbin pop in here. The sexy times between Jamie and Larkin were sizzling. It was the perfect amount of creepy and the twist at the end was great.
POCKETS DEEP IN DARKER WATERS - Fae Quinn (M/M) - 4 stars
This is my first book by Fae Quinn and I loved it. It was such a cute and interesting story involving a petty thief and a young Lord. The setting is quite unique. Henry and Oliver have some steamy first times and I am super invested in the rest of their story. Can't wait for more.
THE TASTE OF CRIMSON - Hellie Heat (M/M) - 5 stars
This was such a fun, dark and dirty read. OMG. I loved it! So much blood. So much blood play. This is the first book by Hellie Heat I've read and HOLY SHIT I am immediately seeking out more of her work.
STATIC - Marie Ann (M/M) - 5 stars
Holy hell, this was INTENSE! I felt like I was in a haunted house. This story was super terrifying. My heart is still racing LMAO. I would 1000% NEVER go to the Mayhem Motel, but I will happily read about it. Looking forward to more from these guys.
MASK OF SIN - Michaela Cole (M/M) - 5 stars
Shit. These stories just keep getting better. I'm scared for the rest of them, because this one was just perfection and idk if they can get any better. This story was dark. It was twisty. It was spicy. I was LIVING for it! Ugh. I loved this one so much. Loved the characters. Damn. I don't want to spoil anything, so just read it. This was another new to me author and now I've gotta read more by Michaela Cole ASAP.
NO SLEEP - Nyla K (M/M) - 4 stars
This was a great story. I really enjoyed it. I loved Asa and Jules. They were instantly smitten with one another and they were so sweet (and spicy) together. Some super hot first times were had. This had a bit of tragedy and mystery to it, which unfolded nicely, and it was quite heartwarming at the end.
BECOMING HIS ANGEL - S.M. Landon (M/M) - 4 stars
I really liked the vibe of this. It was different. There were some twists in it. I think this could benefit from being longer/novel length as there is much more to explore here. Anthony and Delorean were a perfect match for one another. I appreciated how their quirks aligned to make them so great together.
*** I received an ARC of this anthology from the authors and this is my honest opinion. ***
Faves: Mortem Obire, Mask of Sin & The Taste of Crimson
MORTEM OBIRE - Ashlyn Drewek (M/M) - 5 stars
I was sort of subconsciously leaving this one for last. And I’m glad I did. If you know me at all, I’m obsessed with all things Tennebrose. And damn, this did not disappoint. Not even a little bit. I loved this story. I enjoyed seeing Dr. Corbin pop in here. The sexy times between Jamie and Larkin were sizzling. It was the perfect amount of creepy and the twist at the end was great.
POCKETS DEEP IN DARKER WATERS - Fae Quinn (M/M) - 4 stars
This is my first book by Fae Quinn and I loved it. It was such a cute and interesting story involving a petty thief and a young Lord. The setting is quite unique. Henry and Oliver have some steamy first times and I am super invested in the rest of their story. Can't wait for more.
THE TASTE OF CRIMSON - Hellie Heat (M/M) - 5 stars
This was such a fun, dark and dirty read. OMG. I loved it! So much blood. So much blood play. This is the first book by Hellie Heat I've read and HOLY SHIT I am immediately seeking out more of her work.
STATIC - Marie Ann (M/M) - 5 stars
Holy hell, this was INTENSE! I felt like I was in a haunted house. This story was super terrifying. My heart is still racing LMAO. I would 1000% NEVER go to the Mayhem Motel, but I will happily read about it. Looking forward to more from these guys.
MASK OF SIN - Michaela Cole (M/M) - 5 stars
Shit. These stories just keep getting better. I'm scared for the rest of them, because this one was just perfection and idk if they can get any better. This story was dark. It was twisty. It was spicy. I was LIVING for it! Ugh. I loved this one so much. Loved the characters. Damn. I don't want to spoil anything, so just read it. This was another new to me author and now I've gotta read more by Michaela Cole ASAP.
NO SLEEP - Nyla K (M/M) - 4 stars
This was a great story. I really enjoyed it. I loved Asa and Jules. They were instantly smitten with one another and they were so sweet (and spicy) together. Some super hot first times were had. This had a bit of tragedy and mystery to it, which unfolded nicely, and it was quite heartwarming at the end.
BECOMING HIS ANGEL - S.M. Landon (M/M) - 4 stars
I really liked the vibe of this. It was different. There were some twists in it. I think this could benefit from being longer/novel length as there is much more to explore here. Anthony and Delorean were a perfect match for one another. I appreciated how their quirks aligned to make them so great together.
*** I received an ARC of this anthology from the authors and this is my honest opinion. ***
March 18, 2024
3.5/5
Static by Marie Ann — 4.5/5
OMG IT WAS AMAZING. Why was it so short? I need more. I hope Marie decides to make it a full-length novel, because I'm obsessed. The rating is not five stars, only because I wanted it to be longer.
A crazy clown who calls you 'darlin'? Yes please.
I will pray every day for this novella to become a book.
No sleep by Nyla K — 2.5/5
Pretty disappointed in this story. I wanted to read this anthology mainly because of Nyla K, but I didn't like the development of the relationships here at all. I know it's a novella, so it's hard to create a relationship between the main characters where you can see that they really love each other, but here the "I love you" after a week where they didn't even meet that much felt flat.
At least this short story introduced some new characters which I think will be fun to read about. A new series by Nyla about a Riot Park? It sounds so good. I can’t wait.
Static by Marie Ann — 4.5/5
OMG IT WAS AMAZING. Why was it so short? I need more. I hope Marie decides to make it a full-length novel, because I'm obsessed. The rating is not five stars, only because I wanted it to be longer.
A crazy clown who calls you 'darlin'? Yes please.
“Suck on my ax, darlin’.” Gooseflesh takes over my entire body."
I will pray every day for this novella to become a book.
No sleep by Nyla K — 2.5/5
Pretty disappointed in this story. I wanted to read this anthology mainly because of Nyla K, but I didn't like the development of the relationships here at all. I know it's a novella, so it's hard to create a relationship between the main characters where you can see that they really love each other, but here the "I love you" after a week where they didn't even meet that much felt flat.
At least this short story introduced some new characters which I think will be fun to read about. A new series by Nyla about a Riot Park? It sounds so good. I can’t wait.
September 21, 2023
Phobia is a perfectly spooky and haunting anthology that I could not get enough of. Listed below are my favorite entries in this fantastic anthology.
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek brings you back into the Tennenbrose world. In this story, you follow best friends Jamie and Larkin. They have been best friends since they were thirteen and are completely devoted to one another. The friendship and devotion between these two was my favorite aspect of the story. It really made me root for these guys, especially when they had so much to overcome.
Overall I loved this thrill ride from beginning to end. I loved how I never really knew where this story would go and was pleasantly surprised throughout, especially with all of the character reveals. Together Jamie and Larkin go through so much in their story. I love how they worked together and faced their demons while remaining true to one another. Such a fantastically spooky story!!
Mask of Malice by Michaela Cole is a perfectly dark thrilling "romance." This story follows Zane and Graysin as they experience quite a dangerous encounter with one another. Zane is a complicated character who is recovering from his grief after losing a family member. Graysin is working towards healing from past trauma and moving forward with his life. They are brought together through tragedy while playing quite a dangerous game.
I loved how I never really knew where this story was going. I was thrown for quite a loop while reading the last chapter to the point that I reread this story again and had such a great experience after a certain reveal. Loved the dangerous atmosphere throughout this story and genuinely feared for Graysin, he is a strong character who really proved himself.
No Sleep by Nyla K is a fantastic thrilling romance between Asa, who has such a heartbreaking backstory, and his new neighbor Jules who comes into his life at the perfect moment to help Asa heal and recover from his intense trauma.
Together they both go on such a journey, where we meet unique side characters while maintaining such an eerie atmosphere throughout this haunting story. Loved it so much and cannot wait to see these characters again.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek brings you back into the Tennenbrose world. In this story, you follow best friends Jamie and Larkin. They have been best friends since they were thirteen and are completely devoted to one another. The friendship and devotion between these two was my favorite aspect of the story. It really made me root for these guys, especially when they had so much to overcome.
Overall I loved this thrill ride from beginning to end. I loved how I never really knew where this story would go and was pleasantly surprised throughout, especially with all of the character reveals. Together Jamie and Larkin go through so much in their story. I love how they worked together and faced their demons while remaining true to one another. Such a fantastically spooky story!!
Mask of Malice by Michaela Cole is a perfectly dark thrilling "romance." This story follows Zane and Graysin as they experience quite a dangerous encounter with one another. Zane is a complicated character who is recovering from his grief after losing a family member. Graysin is working towards healing from past trauma and moving forward with his life. They are brought together through tragedy while playing quite a dangerous game.
I loved how I never really knew where this story was going. I was thrown for quite a loop while reading the last chapter to the point that I reread this story again and had such a great experience after a certain reveal. Loved the dangerous atmosphere throughout this story and genuinely feared for Graysin, he is a strong character who really proved himself.
No Sleep by Nyla K is a fantastic thrilling romance between Asa, who has such a heartbreaking backstory, and his new neighbor Jules who comes into his life at the perfect moment to help Asa heal and recover from his intense trauma.
Together they both go on such a journey, where we meet unique side characters while maintaining such an eerie atmosphere throughout this haunting story. Loved it so much and cannot wait to see these characters again.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
October 24, 2023
This Anthology was a wild ride.
The creepy horror vibes in most of them were perfect for Halloween and nothing gets your heart racing like spooks and love.
Personally, I enjoyed the MM novellas way more than the MF ones — some MF stories I couldn’t even manage to get through the first chapter.
Overall, I enjoyed it more than not, and the 5 star stories are definitely worth it.
‼️There are spoilers ahead, so proceed at your own risk.‼️
Side note: what was up with the fucking geese?! Was I hallucinating, or did most authors drop a little goose Easter egg in the middle of their story? I felt like I was going crazy.
This review might be a little all over the place, but let’s embrace the chaos, shall we?
👀 Scopaesthesia by A.L. Woods 3.5 ⭐️ 👀
Scopaesthesia ➛ The paranoia provoking phenomenon of being watched without identifying the source.
Has a lot of potential of becoming an intriguing story. Really enjoyed Adam and Katrina’s dynamic and wouldn’t mind seeing more of them in a full-length novel.
The way its written and the cliffhanger at the end really felt like I just watched a movie teaser, and it did a great job of hooking me and making me want more.
CWs (spoilers!):
- mentions of past trauma
- Possessive MC
- Murder/torture
- Exhibitionism & public sex
👻 Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek 5 ⭐️ 👻
Cute friends-to-lovers romance w/ a dark twist. Loved the contrast between the sweetness of the relationship and the macabre mystery plot. Great mix of dark and paranormal themes. Despite being novella-length it felt complete and ended very satisfyingly. Ashlyn Drewek killed it, as always.
CWs (spoilers!):
- mention of past child kidnapping, SA and death
- Homophobic slurs & internalized homophobia
- Attempted SA
- Violence & torture
- PTSD & anxiety
- Possessive MC
- Frotting
- Strict top/bottom on page
🌊 Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quin 5 ⭐️ 🌊
Fae Quin made me fall in love with these two in such a short time.
Rich vs poor, hate-to-love — and explosive hot smut.
The phobia theme/dark romance aspect is a little less prominent in this one, but still a wonderfully written novella.
It does end on a gasping WTF cliffhanger, so I can’t wait for more of Henry and Oliver’s story.
🩸 The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat 3⭐️ 🩸
I don’t know what I was expecting, but it certainly wasn’t what I got. What a shocker. 😵💫
This short novella was more like a twisted and dark paranormal erotica, and I wouldn’t say it wasn’t enjoyable but it was definitely…intense.
I liked the redemption, where the hunted becomes the hunter, the victim becomes the killer.
The smut was okay, just not really my kink.
CWs (spoilers!):
- paranormal/dark themes
- Assault & attempted SA
- Violence, gore & death
- Blood play (a LOT of blood)
- Insta-love
🐺 Lobo by J. Dylan 1⭐️ 🐺
Originally, I gave this one two stars, but the more I thought about it, the more I hated it.
Lobo was all over the fucking place, I still don’t understand what was going on. The characters had zero personality, they’ve barely met and they’re already going at it, and the lore made no sense. I have so many questions, but I loathed these two so much I don’t even want answers.
🤪🔪 Something Sinister This Way Comes by L.K. Reid 2⭐️ 🤪🔪
Very convoluted and confusing plot, even more confusing ending. This was a chore to get through — way too many internal monologues and inane cringy dialogues. Just no.
🤡 Static by Marie Ann 3.5⭐️ 🤡
Perfectly creepy and weirdly…hot?
I was definitely more creeped out than turned on, but wouldn’t mind reading more of Static the clown and his treat.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Dub-con
- Violence & stalking
- Mental manipulation
😈 Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole 5⭐️ 😈
Now, this is how you mix creepy dark themes with romance. So fucking good.
Mask of Sin kept me on my toes, gasping and talking to myself — I’m still in shock over the twists and turns.
No CWs for this one, it’s too good to spoil.
💤 No Sleep by Nyla K. 4.5⭐️ 💤
Less Halloween vibes in this one, but Asa and Jules make up for it in cuteness.
Very sweet and adorable romance, tinged with a streak of darkness.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Bi-awakening
- Jock vs alt emo boi
- Somniphobia
- Suicide & death of side character
- Strict top/bottom on page
- Dick piercing
Toko by Roxanna C. Revell — no rating
Completely skipped over this one after reading the TWs. Nope.
😇 Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon 3⭐️ 😇
Short and smutty, but way too short for me to properly connect with the characters.
Overall an okay read, but nothing mind blowing.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Noncon/dubcon
- Sexual assault
- Insta-love
- Child abuse, trauma and PTSD
- Murder and violence
- Strict top/bottom
- Possessive/obsessive MC
Songbird by Victoria Woods
Same as Toko, read the TWs and decided to save myself the headache it would cost to get through this.
The creepy horror vibes in most of them were perfect for Halloween and nothing gets your heart racing like spooks and love.
Personally, I enjoyed the MM novellas way more than the MF ones — some MF stories I couldn’t even manage to get through the first chapter.
Overall, I enjoyed it more than not, and the 5 star stories are definitely worth it.
‼️There are spoilers ahead, so proceed at your own risk.‼️
Side note: what was up with the fucking geese?! Was I hallucinating, or did most authors drop a little goose Easter egg in the middle of their story? I felt like I was going crazy.
This review might be a little all over the place, but let’s embrace the chaos, shall we?
👀 Scopaesthesia by A.L. Woods 3.5 ⭐️ 👀
Scopaesthesia ➛ The paranoia provoking phenomenon of being watched without identifying the source.
Has a lot of potential of becoming an intriguing story. Really enjoyed Adam and Katrina’s dynamic and wouldn’t mind seeing more of them in a full-length novel.
The way its written and the cliffhanger at the end really felt like I just watched a movie teaser, and it did a great job of hooking me and making me want more.
CWs (spoilers!):
- mentions of past trauma
- Possessive MC
- Murder/torture
- Exhibitionism & public sex
👻 Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek 5 ⭐️ 👻
Cute friends-to-lovers romance w/ a dark twist. Loved the contrast between the sweetness of the relationship and the macabre mystery plot. Great mix of dark and paranormal themes. Despite being novella-length it felt complete and ended very satisfyingly. Ashlyn Drewek killed it, as always.
CWs (spoilers!):
- mention of past child kidnapping, SA and death
- Homophobic slurs & internalized homophobia
- Attempted SA
- Violence & torture
- PTSD & anxiety
- Possessive MC
- Frotting
- Strict top/bottom on page
🌊 Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quin 5 ⭐️ 🌊
Fae Quin made me fall in love with these two in such a short time.
Rich vs poor, hate-to-love — and explosive hot smut.
The phobia theme/dark romance aspect is a little less prominent in this one, but still a wonderfully written novella.
It does end on a gasping WTF cliffhanger, so I can’t wait for more of Henry and Oliver’s story.
🩸 The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat 3⭐️ 🩸
I don’t know what I was expecting, but it certainly wasn’t what I got. What a shocker. 😵💫
This short novella was more like a twisted and dark paranormal erotica, and I wouldn’t say it wasn’t enjoyable but it was definitely…intense.
I liked the redemption, where the hunted becomes the hunter, the victim becomes the killer.
The smut was okay, just not really my kink.
CWs (spoilers!):
- paranormal/dark themes
- Assault & attempted SA
- Violence, gore & death
- Blood play (a LOT of blood)
- Insta-love
🐺 Lobo by J. Dylan 1⭐️ 🐺
“Hunt me. Take me. Don’t suppress your hunger. Take all of me, Silas.”
Originally, I gave this one two stars, but the more I thought about it, the more I hated it.
Lobo was all over the fucking place, I still don’t understand what was going on. The characters had zero personality, they’ve barely met and they’re already going at it, and the lore made no sense. I have so many questions, but I loathed these two so much I don’t even want answers.
🤪🔪 Something Sinister This Way Comes by L.K. Reid 2⭐️ 🤪🔪
Very convoluted and confusing plot, even more confusing ending. This was a chore to get through — way too many internal monologues and inane cringy dialogues. Just no.
🤡 Static by Marie Ann 3.5⭐️ 🤡
Perfectly creepy and weirdly…hot?
I was definitely more creeped out than turned on, but wouldn’t mind reading more of Static the clown and his treat.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Dub-con
- Violence & stalking
- Mental manipulation
😈 Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole 5⭐️ 😈
“I’m going to hell, Demon.”
“Kitten, I’ll follow you anywhere.”
Now, this is how you mix creepy dark themes with romance. So fucking good.
Mask of Sin kept me on my toes, gasping and talking to myself — I’m still in shock over the twists and turns.
No CWs for this one, it’s too good to spoil.
💤 No Sleep by Nyla K. 4.5⭐️ 💤
“You’re like… a dream. When everything else is a nightmare.”
Less Halloween vibes in this one, but Asa and Jules make up for it in cuteness.
Very sweet and adorable romance, tinged with a streak of darkness.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Bi-awakening
- Jock vs alt emo boi
- Somniphobia
- Suicide & death of side character
- Strict top/bottom on page
- Dick piercing
Toko by Roxanna C. Revell — no rating
Completely skipped over this one after reading the TWs. Nope.
😇 Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon 3⭐️ 😇
Short and smutty, but way too short for me to properly connect with the characters.
Overall an okay read, but nothing mind blowing.
CWs (spoilers!):
- Noncon/dubcon
- Sexual assault
- Insta-love
- Child abuse, trauma and PTSD
- Murder and violence
- Strict top/bottom
- Possessive/obsessive MC
Songbird by Victoria Woods
Same as Toko, read the TWs and decided to save myself the headache it would cost to get through this.
September 30, 2023
"By the pricking of my thumbs,
Something wicked this way comes." -Macbeth
Too often we think of a phobia as something that will terrify you but this book changes that. This book takes phobias you might not be familiar with and changes them into something entirely different. Did you just discover a new fear? Or did you just discover a new kink? You won't know until you start to turn the pages and find out...
Scopaesthesia by A.L. Woods (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to preface this by saying I have never read an A.L. Woods book before, so I am not sure if these characters have appeared in other books of hers but if they have, I desperately want more!
This was the first story in the anthology, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect but it is making so much more sense now. Adam and Katrina, no doubt had passion but when the wax figures came in it really changed the game they seemed to be always playing. I was entirely here for it and can't wait to see what else might be coming from this world that I just tipped my toe into.
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two best friends Jamie and Larkin have been by one another's side for years and nothing has changed their friendship. When dark secrets from both start to come to life you would think it would tear them apart, but it does the opposite. Their friendship and love only grew stronger until there was nothing that could keep them apart.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story because friends-to-lovers is so hit or miss with me, but Ashlyn did a fantastic job at keeping me guessing right to the very end as well as making sure their friendship still stayed intact throughout.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quinn (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Henry and Oliver had my heart from the very beginning. There was nothing these two characters could have done that would have made me love them less. Yeah, sure there was a bit of an enemies-to-lovers situation going on but that was what made it all the more delicious.
Fae Quinn has been on my radar for months and after reading this short snippet I can't wait to see what else is in store for Oliver and Henry as well as what else Fae might up her sleeve.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you know me then you know I am a sucker for blood. Give it to me, I want it all. Battle scenes, intimate moments, and everything in between. One of the darker stories from this anthology Hellie Heat didn't hold back. She gave it all and it showed on the pages. To be frank, I was bummed when this story was over. I will always be a sucker for a damaged boy who finds love and that was delivered here tenfold.
Lobo by J. Dylan (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐
Not my favorite in the anthology, that is for sure. It wasn't bad by any means, but it was just a bit hurried. Like, I get it is an anthology and the stories are generally short, but I needed just a bit more to really connect with the characters. The storyline itself was fabulous but the relationship was a bit too quick. I am always going to be a sucker for instalove but this was a bit too insta for even for me.
Something Sinister This Way Comes by L.K. Reid (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Of all the books to end on a cliffhanger it had to be this one!! I became obsessed with Danika and Lazarus immediately! If there is one thing about me, it is that I am sucker for a strong woman. Give me a woman who doesn't let anything bring her down and I am going to be a big swoony mess. Too often it is the man that gets the recognition because duh, but these ladies need love too and Danika is more deserving than most. The relationship was top notch, the storyline was incredible, and even with the cliffhanger I would call this one of the best so far in this anthology.
Static by Marie Ann (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Depraved, dark and utterly delicious Static had me taking notice within the first two chapters. I know this story is just getting started but I really wanted so much more!! And yeah, that is a theme here but that is what these anthologies do. They capture you and the only thing you want is MORE! To be quite honest, this one gave me the absolute creeps in the best way!! I've been spooked on a couple of these stories but this one down right gave me the creeps. Bravo to you Marie Ann!
Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PLOT TWIST!!! Revenge is a dish best served cold is what I have always heard but for me there is nothing more delicious than revenge. Give me the violence and the chaos that comes along with it and that was delivered here and then some! Graysin, I am still on the fence about you though man...
*Huge applaud to that prologue because WOW*
No Sleep by Nyla K (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This one was difficult but also really good! I do love Nyla so much, but I wanted a bit more. Not a lot, just a bit. Her smut scenes were perfection and the buildup between Asa and Jules was exactly what I was looking for here. I just wanted a bit more with the "phobia" bit. It is still a five-star read no doubt but still I wanted just a touch more.
Toko by Roxanna C Revell (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐
I am not entirely sure how to rate this one or review it. Kind of long. Not what I was expecting. There is so much to say but also don't want to give anything away either. What to do... Let's just say this story will be for some of you and not for others. And yeah, that will work.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐
Potential. This story had so much potential, but I needed more! Yes, I needed more. There wasn't really a way for me to connect to the characters without much of a back story. I think this would make a fantastic full-length novel if Landon decides to take it there but for now, I just felt a little underwhelmed. The story had beautiful writing but still... more... I needed more.
Songbird by Victoria Woods (M/F with an M/F/M+M scene) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rosalie, my sweet little one had no idea what she was getting into, but dang did Bastien made sure she knew what all was going to be involved before they went any further...
Holy gods this story threw me in the best possible way! I didn't know what was going to come and when I found out let's just say my mouth completely dropped. Like...excuse me WHAT?! Songbird was definitely one of my favorites of this entire anthology for the sheer gasp factor alone! Not really terrifying to me but Victoria Woods left me entirely captivated.
That is all I've got folks! This review is entirely too long but I hope I was able to give you a bit of insight on what I thought of each story without giving too much away! This has been one of my most anticipated books of 2023 and I was not disappointed!
*ARC received from the authors in exchange for my honest review. *
Something wicked this way comes." -Macbeth
Too often we think of a phobia as something that will terrify you but this book changes that. This book takes phobias you might not be familiar with and changes them into something entirely different. Did you just discover a new fear? Or did you just discover a new kink? You won't know until you start to turn the pages and find out...
Scopaesthesia by A.L. Woods (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to preface this by saying I have never read an A.L. Woods book before, so I am not sure if these characters have appeared in other books of hers but if they have, I desperately want more!
This was the first story in the anthology, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect but it is making so much more sense now. Adam and Katrina, no doubt had passion but when the wax figures came in it really changed the game they seemed to be always playing. I was entirely here for it and can't wait to see what else might be coming from this world that I just tipped my toe into.
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two best friends Jamie and Larkin have been by one another's side for years and nothing has changed their friendship. When dark secrets from both start to come to life you would think it would tear them apart, but it does the opposite. Their friendship and love only grew stronger until there was nothing that could keep them apart.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story because friends-to-lovers is so hit or miss with me, but Ashlyn did a fantastic job at keeping me guessing right to the very end as well as making sure their friendship still stayed intact throughout.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quinn (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Henry and Oliver had my heart from the very beginning. There was nothing these two characters could have done that would have made me love them less. Yeah, sure there was a bit of an enemies-to-lovers situation going on but that was what made it all the more delicious.
Fae Quinn has been on my radar for months and after reading this short snippet I can't wait to see what else is in store for Oliver and Henry as well as what else Fae might up her sleeve.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you know me then you know I am a sucker for blood. Give it to me, I want it all. Battle scenes, intimate moments, and everything in between. One of the darker stories from this anthology Hellie Heat didn't hold back. She gave it all and it showed on the pages. To be frank, I was bummed when this story was over. I will always be a sucker for a damaged boy who finds love and that was delivered here tenfold.
Lobo by J. Dylan (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐
Not my favorite in the anthology, that is for sure. It wasn't bad by any means, but it was just a bit hurried. Like, I get it is an anthology and the stories are generally short, but I needed just a bit more to really connect with the characters. The storyline itself was fabulous but the relationship was a bit too quick. I am always going to be a sucker for instalove but this was a bit too insta for even for me.
Something Sinister This Way Comes by L.K. Reid (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Of all the books to end on a cliffhanger it had to be this one!! I became obsessed with Danika and Lazarus immediately! If there is one thing about me, it is that I am sucker for a strong woman. Give me a woman who doesn't let anything bring her down and I am going to be a big swoony mess. Too often it is the man that gets the recognition because duh, but these ladies need love too and Danika is more deserving than most. The relationship was top notch, the storyline was incredible, and even with the cliffhanger I would call this one of the best so far in this anthology.
Static by Marie Ann (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Depraved, dark and utterly delicious Static had me taking notice within the first two chapters. I know this story is just getting started but I really wanted so much more!! And yeah, that is a theme here but that is what these anthologies do. They capture you and the only thing you want is MORE! To be quite honest, this one gave me the absolute creeps in the best way!! I've been spooked on a couple of these stories but this one down right gave me the creeps. Bravo to you Marie Ann!
Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
PLOT TWIST!!! Revenge is a dish best served cold is what I have always heard but for me there is nothing more delicious than revenge. Give me the violence and the chaos that comes along with it and that was delivered here and then some! Graysin, I am still on the fence about you though man...
*Huge applaud to that prologue because WOW*
No Sleep by Nyla K (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This one was difficult but also really good! I do love Nyla so much, but I wanted a bit more. Not a lot, just a bit. Her smut scenes were perfection and the buildup between Asa and Jules was exactly what I was looking for here. I just wanted a bit more with the "phobia" bit. It is still a five-star read no doubt but still I wanted just a touch more.
Toko by Roxanna C Revell (M/F) ⭐⭐⭐
I am not entirely sure how to rate this one or review it. Kind of long. Not what I was expecting. There is so much to say but also don't want to give anything away either. What to do... Let's just say this story will be for some of you and not for others. And yeah, that will work.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon (M/M) ⭐⭐⭐
Potential. This story had so much potential, but I needed more! Yes, I needed more. There wasn't really a way for me to connect to the characters without much of a back story. I think this would make a fantastic full-length novel if Landon decides to take it there but for now, I just felt a little underwhelmed. The story had beautiful writing but still... more... I needed more.
Songbird by Victoria Woods (M/F with an M/F/M+M scene) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rosalie, my sweet little one had no idea what she was getting into, but dang did Bastien made sure she knew what all was going to be involved before they went any further...
Holy gods this story threw me in the best possible way! I didn't know what was going to come and when I found out let's just say my mouth completely dropped. Like...excuse me WHAT?! Songbird was definitely one of my favorites of this entire anthology for the sheer gasp factor alone! Not really terrifying to me but Victoria Woods left me entirely captivated.
That is all I've got folks! This review is entirely too long but I hope I was able to give you a bit of insight on what I thought of each story without giving too much away! This has been one of my most anticipated books of 2023 and I was not disappointed!
*ARC received from the authors in exchange for my honest review. *
October 14, 2023
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek: 5 stars
Omg, I went blind and I’m SO happy I did. Seriously, I loved this from start to finish, and it only seemed to get better… while I would totally take more of these two and this story, I felt like it was very satisfying. GAH. Loved it.
Pockets Deep in Dark Waters by Fae Quin: 4 stars
Ohhh I’m already super invested in these characters now, which made it so painful that it’s only part one. Now I need more, Fae! Also, love the old world vibe with the scifi type setting!
No Sleep by Nyla K: 3.5
I enjoyed a lot about this. It started strong and as always with something by Nyla, hot af. I think the beginning, the phobia itself, and meeting the foster brothers were my favorite parts. I didn’t like the insta-love, personally… and in general it felt a little like it needed something to keep the story moving, other than sex. While I found the sister storyline interesting, the letter kinda felt unnecessary. It’s worth saying again though, I would LOVE a whole book about those foster brothers…
Omg, I went blind and I’m SO happy I did. Seriously, I loved this from start to finish, and it only seemed to get better… while I would totally take more of these two and this story, I felt like it was very satisfying. GAH. Loved it.
Pockets Deep in Dark Waters by Fae Quin: 4 stars
Ohhh I’m already super invested in these characters now, which made it so painful that it’s only part one. Now I need more, Fae! Also, love the old world vibe with the scifi type setting!
No Sleep by Nyla K: 3.5
I enjoyed a lot about this. It started strong and as always with something by Nyla, hot af. I think the beginning, the phobia itself, and meeting the foster brothers were my favorite parts. I didn’t like the insta-love, personally… and in general it felt a little like it needed something to keep the story moving, other than sex. While I found the sister storyline interesting, the letter kinda felt unnecessary. It’s worth saying again though, I would LOVE a whole book about those foster brothers…
May 29, 2025
I have chosen to read and review just the MM novellas in the Phobia anthology, which is a collection of stories from 12 different authors but all with the common theme of phobia - one of the main characters in each book has a fear of SOMETHING.
1. Mortem Obire, Ashlyn Drewek 5 stars
"Tennebrose at night always had a different vibe. A darker vibe. During the day, the historic buildings and flagstone walkways lent the university an old-world air of sophistication. It was quaint. Charming. Picturesque. But in the dark, you’d swear things watched you from the shadows and ghosts whispered your name as you passed by."
Secrets, lies, past horror, trauma, ghosts, witches, fear of Halloween, MM best friends to lovers, bi-awakening, dark, twisty themes and a HEA all wrapped up into a novella! Seriously Ashlyn Drewek, how do you do it?!
Mortem Obire is book 2.5 in the amazing Tennebrose universe and it comes as a highly recommended read. Can be read as a standalone in this anthology, but would encourage you to read Malum Discordiae, Igni Ferroque and the novella Caligo too!
2. Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quin 5 stars
"I should’ve known things could always get worse. If being caught kissing a boy behind the kitchens was my fall from grace, this was surely Hell."
This was my first time reading a Fae Quin novel and I loved it! This was Henry and Oliver's story - trapped on a row boat for a night in the middle of the ocean - and it was a steamy one! It felt like it should be the first chapter in a full length book and honestly Fae, I need you to write the rest!
3. The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat 5 stars
"I feel the warmth of a mouth against my throat, a wet tongue caressing my Adam’s apple. Two sharp points graze my flesh, and I don’t even have time to panic before I succumb to darkness, to the deepest sleep."
Hellie Heat is one of my favourite new (to me) writers and I am currently adoring her Vampyre Dominium series (highly recommended). The Taste of Crimson is a vampire/human/PNR novella, Silas and Adrien's story - dark themes and a fear of blood!
4. Static by Marie Ann 5 stars
"Just as I’m shoved through the opening, I glance back to find a pair of white eyes pinned on me and even whiter, sharp teeth splayed wide, black lips stretched, and that god-awful, wicked tongue flicking outward. I shiver, then whimper as I’m cast in darkness."
A haunted house of horror with a twist - sometimes the scary clowns don't just scare you, they arouse you horrifyingly too! Another slice of glorious, dark AF, steamy mayhem from Marie Ann.
5. Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole 5 stars
"He took his sweet time, pressing kisses over my jaw, my neck, and my shoulders. His kisses trailed down my stomach, to my hips, and toward where I really needed those hot lips of his to land."
Oh how I've missed Michaela Cole's writing! I absolutely adored About Last Knight and Mask of Sin was such a good little place holder while we wait for When Knight Falls.
This is a twisty, steamy, angsty little read and you will totally fall in love with Graysin and Kellan. Another novella that needs to be a full novel please Michaela!
6. No Sleep by Nyla K. 5 stars
"Grabbing his face, I pull his lips to mine, kissing him hard, rough, fast. It’s so unexpected that he moans into my mouth, and I return it with a jagged grunt, sucking that piercing like a fiend."
Nyla K. does it again! This is an angsty, dark themes, steamy, first times, emotional roller-coaster of a read. You will fall in love with Asa and Jules, but have a box of tissues ready because there are some tough times ahead. A fear of sleep with a Nyla K. twist.
7. Becoming his Angel by S.M. Landon 5 stars
"I wake up with a start. Horror grips me immediately as the first thing I see are the bright yellow and orange colors of the sunset. I’m all alone and the darkness is coming to claim me. A whimper escapes my trembling lips as I scatter away from the bed and run down the stairs."
Wow, what a fabulously twisty, quirky, effed up little novella the wonderful S.M. Landon has produced for us! Delorean is such a morally grey character, with dark AF undertones but he adores his angel, Anthony, who is so messed up and so vulnerable, yet also as tough as nails!
Prepare to be shocked and confused as the story unfolds....
Another one that will need a full book please Stefka! Loved it.
1. Mortem Obire, Ashlyn Drewek 5 stars
"Tennebrose at night always had a different vibe. A darker vibe. During the day, the historic buildings and flagstone walkways lent the university an old-world air of sophistication. It was quaint. Charming. Picturesque. But in the dark, you’d swear things watched you from the shadows and ghosts whispered your name as you passed by."
Secrets, lies, past horror, trauma, ghosts, witches, fear of Halloween, MM best friends to lovers, bi-awakening, dark, twisty themes and a HEA all wrapped up into a novella! Seriously Ashlyn Drewek, how do you do it?!
Mortem Obire is book 2.5 in the amazing Tennebrose universe and it comes as a highly recommended read. Can be read as a standalone in this anthology, but would encourage you to read Malum Discordiae, Igni Ferroque and the novella Caligo too!
2. Pockets Deep in Darker Waters by Fae Quin 5 stars
"I should’ve known things could always get worse. If being caught kissing a boy behind the kitchens was my fall from grace, this was surely Hell."
This was my first time reading a Fae Quin novel and I loved it! This was Henry and Oliver's story - trapped on a row boat for a night in the middle of the ocean - and it was a steamy one! It felt like it should be the first chapter in a full length book and honestly Fae, I need you to write the rest!
3. The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat 5 stars
"I feel the warmth of a mouth against my throat, a wet tongue caressing my Adam’s apple. Two sharp points graze my flesh, and I don’t even have time to panic before I succumb to darkness, to the deepest sleep."
Hellie Heat is one of my favourite new (to me) writers and I am currently adoring her Vampyre Dominium series (highly recommended). The Taste of Crimson is a vampire/human/PNR novella, Silas and Adrien's story - dark themes and a fear of blood!
4. Static by Marie Ann 5 stars
"Just as I’m shoved through the opening, I glance back to find a pair of white eyes pinned on me and even whiter, sharp teeth splayed wide, black lips stretched, and that god-awful, wicked tongue flicking outward. I shiver, then whimper as I’m cast in darkness."
A haunted house of horror with a twist - sometimes the scary clowns don't just scare you, they arouse you horrifyingly too! Another slice of glorious, dark AF, steamy mayhem from Marie Ann.
5. Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole 5 stars
"He took his sweet time, pressing kisses over my jaw, my neck, and my shoulders. His kisses trailed down my stomach, to my hips, and toward where I really needed those hot lips of his to land."
Oh how I've missed Michaela Cole's writing! I absolutely adored About Last Knight and Mask of Sin was such a good little place holder while we wait for When Knight Falls.
This is a twisty, steamy, angsty little read and you will totally fall in love with Graysin and Kellan. Another novella that needs to be a full novel please Michaela!
6. No Sleep by Nyla K. 5 stars
"Grabbing his face, I pull his lips to mine, kissing him hard, rough, fast. It’s so unexpected that he moans into my mouth, and I return it with a jagged grunt, sucking that piercing like a fiend."
Nyla K. does it again! This is an angsty, dark themes, steamy, first times, emotional roller-coaster of a read. You will fall in love with Asa and Jules, but have a box of tissues ready because there are some tough times ahead. A fear of sleep with a Nyla K. twist.
7. Becoming his Angel by S.M. Landon 5 stars
"I wake up with a start. Horror grips me immediately as the first thing I see are the bright yellow and orange colors of the sunset. I’m all alone and the darkness is coming to claim me. A whimper escapes my trembling lips as I scatter away from the bed and run down the stairs."
Wow, what a fabulously twisty, quirky, effed up little novella the wonderful S.M. Landon has produced for us! Delorean is such a morally grey character, with dark AF undertones but he adores his angel, Anthony, who is so messed up and so vulnerable, yet also as tough as nails!
Prepare to be shocked and confused as the story unfolds....
Another one that will need a full book please Stefka! Loved it.
September 30, 2023
I was kindly provided the ARC of this anthology to review. I haven’t really read anything like this before. I enjoyed the short stories as they were quick to read and there was excitement as to what the next story would bring.
Scopaesthesia by AL Woods (M/F)
My absolute favourite author and this story did not disappoint. Loved reading about Adam and Katrina again in this house of wax type horror story. It ends in a cliffhanger and I know that the full story will be amazing. Looking forward to that.
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek (M/M)
Loved this story of best friends to lovers. This author did such a great job of giving this short story such depth and intrigue. From Halloween fears to family trauma to psychic abilities and serial killers, it really had it all packed in.
Pockets Deep in Dark Water by Fae Quin (M/M)
This is an enemies to lovers forced proximity story. Henry and Oliver are stranded on a rowboat after being kicked off a boat. Loved the push and pull in their relationship. It ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger and I hope there is more to the story.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat (M/M)
Woah this one has the fire. A timid man finds his saviour after a life of pain and torture. This story is very short but has a whole lot of spice.
Lobo by J Dylan (M/F)
A great storyline but was let down by the writing. I found that the relationship between the main characters was a bit rushed and I understand that it is a short story but I couldn’t really feel the connection between them. It felt a bit forced.
Something Sinister this Way Comes by LK Reid (M/F)
This is one of the best stories in the anthology. Set in a small town where the founding families control everything and everyone. Danika won’t bow to them and this puts her in a situation where she has to fight hard to get free and her dark knight, Lazarus, is there to do it. It ends on a cliffhanger and I will be looking for this authors work for sure.
Static by Marie Ann (M/M)
Madison is dragged to a haunted motel attraction by his new roommates. He is not a fan of being scared or anything scary but goes anyway as he wants to fit in with his new friends. What he finds inside is twisted and depraved. Loved the premise of this story and it ended with the anticipation of more.
Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole (M/M)
This is a story of sinister revenge. I loved how the prologue set the scene. I had love/hate feelings toward Graysin throughout. The twist at the end I didn’t see coming.
No Sleep by Nyla K. (M/M)
Asa lives with his sister and suffers from somniphobia which is the fear of sleep. He fears that if he sleeps something bad will happen. As he struggles through this phobia he finds himself entranced with the boy next door, Jules. This is somewhat of a slow burn, as much as it can be in a short story, but steams up quite a bit once it gets going. I found Asa and Jules relationship very sweet, especially that Jules was so supportive and willing to help Asa. The story didn’t really progress too much from there and so I wished for a bit more development of the story.
Toko by Roxanna C. Revell (M/F)
This book contains a phobia that I have never really heard of and made for a very interesting story. I don’t want to give anything away but I will say that it is only in books that an alpha male holding you hostage against your will is sexy. It was a very sexy story for sure.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon (M/M)
I enjoyed this story and the relationship of the couple. There was something sweet and innocent about them together even though they both have dark sides. It would have been nice to have more background to each character but there is only so much that can be included in a short story.
Songbird by Victoria Woods (M/F)
I absolutely loved this story. It was mysterious and intriguing and the twist toward the end I did not see coming. No spoilers. Definitely my favourite of the anthology.
Scopaesthesia by AL Woods (M/F)
My absolute favourite author and this story did not disappoint. Loved reading about Adam and Katrina again in this house of wax type horror story. It ends in a cliffhanger and I know that the full story will be amazing. Looking forward to that.
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek (M/M)
Loved this story of best friends to lovers. This author did such a great job of giving this short story such depth and intrigue. From Halloween fears to family trauma to psychic abilities and serial killers, it really had it all packed in.
Pockets Deep in Dark Water by Fae Quin (M/M)
This is an enemies to lovers forced proximity story. Henry and Oliver are stranded on a rowboat after being kicked off a boat. Loved the push and pull in their relationship. It ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger and I hope there is more to the story.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat (M/M)
Woah this one has the fire. A timid man finds his saviour after a life of pain and torture. This story is very short but has a whole lot of spice.
Lobo by J Dylan (M/F)
A great storyline but was let down by the writing. I found that the relationship between the main characters was a bit rushed and I understand that it is a short story but I couldn’t really feel the connection between them. It felt a bit forced.
Something Sinister this Way Comes by LK Reid (M/F)
This is one of the best stories in the anthology. Set in a small town where the founding families control everything and everyone. Danika won’t bow to them and this puts her in a situation where she has to fight hard to get free and her dark knight, Lazarus, is there to do it. It ends on a cliffhanger and I will be looking for this authors work for sure.
Static by Marie Ann (M/M)
Madison is dragged to a haunted motel attraction by his new roommates. He is not a fan of being scared or anything scary but goes anyway as he wants to fit in with his new friends. What he finds inside is twisted and depraved. Loved the premise of this story and it ended with the anticipation of more.
Mask of Sin by Michaela Cole (M/M)
This is a story of sinister revenge. I loved how the prologue set the scene. I had love/hate feelings toward Graysin throughout. The twist at the end I didn’t see coming.
No Sleep by Nyla K. (M/M)
Asa lives with his sister and suffers from somniphobia which is the fear of sleep. He fears that if he sleeps something bad will happen. As he struggles through this phobia he finds himself entranced with the boy next door, Jules. This is somewhat of a slow burn, as much as it can be in a short story, but steams up quite a bit once it gets going. I found Asa and Jules relationship very sweet, especially that Jules was so supportive and willing to help Asa. The story didn’t really progress too much from there and so I wished for a bit more development of the story.
Toko by Roxanna C. Revell (M/F)
This book contains a phobia that I have never really heard of and made for a very interesting story. I don’t want to give anything away but I will say that it is only in books that an alpha male holding you hostage against your will is sexy. It was a very sexy story for sure.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon (M/M)
I enjoyed this story and the relationship of the couple. There was something sweet and innocent about them together even though they both have dark sides. It would have been nice to have more background to each character but there is only so much that can be included in a short story.
Songbird by Victoria Woods (M/F)
I absolutely loved this story. It was mysterious and intriguing and the twist toward the end I did not see coming. No spoilers. Definitely my favourite of the anthology.
October 12, 2023
RTC (maybe) because I’m not sure if I’m gonna read everything since I prefer to have the whole book and anthologies are a little frustrating. I have just read Static by Marie Ann for now.
| 𝙾𝙽𝙻𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙼𝙼 𝚂𝚃𝙾𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 |
𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐎𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐲𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐤 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐏𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭 | 4 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
« I can taste your fear on my tongue. »
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐞 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐍𝐨 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐛𝐲 𝐍𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐊 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥 𝐛𝐲 𝐒.𝐌 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
| 𝙾𝙽𝙻𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙼𝙼 𝚂𝚃𝙾𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 |
𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐎𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐲𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐤 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐏𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭 | 4 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
« I can taste your fear on my tongue. »
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐞 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐍𝐨 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐛𝐲 𝐍𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐊 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥 𝐛𝐲 𝐒.𝐌 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧 | 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
October 7, 2023
Chills and Thrills
What goes bump in the dark that gives you chills? What makes you look over your shoulder and feel phantom fingers touching your neck? What do you see when you close your eyes? All the answers to these questions and more lie in Phobia. Are you brave enough to face your fears, and just maybe find love along the way?
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek
“Believe in the power of Halloween.” I’ve always loved Halloween. It’s my favorite time of year, so imagine my happiness when it’s paired with BFs to lovers. Jamie and Larkin already have an unbreakable bond but oh how my heart hurt as we learned about their pasts. I have a weakness for long-time friends who fall in love and these two would do anything for the other. What happens in this story only cements my love and beliefs I have for this powerful holiday.
No Sleep by Nyla K.
“You’re like… a dream. When everything else is a nightmare.” Ah my poor Asa, I felt it all for him. To live life as he does isn’t truly living and it was heartbreaking to see. Enter Jules who is full of kindness, life, and happiness. Through their fast friendship, which quickly heats up, they discover the beauty of dreams and love together.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon
“He is the night made just for me. The darkness in his soul fits me like a glove.” I have a huge soft spot for possessive stalkery-type characters who have no shame about their actions and will do whatever it takes to keep what they view as theirs. So meeting Anthony and Delorean was a delight! I loved how these two meshed together so completely and how through darkness these two not only found light and love, but a home.
What goes bump in the dark that gives you chills? What makes you look over your shoulder and feel phantom fingers touching your neck? What do you see when you close your eyes? All the answers to these questions and more lie in Phobia. Are you brave enough to face your fears, and just maybe find love along the way?
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek
“Believe in the power of Halloween.” I’ve always loved Halloween. It’s my favorite time of year, so imagine my happiness when it’s paired with BFs to lovers. Jamie and Larkin already have an unbreakable bond but oh how my heart hurt as we learned about their pasts. I have a weakness for long-time friends who fall in love and these two would do anything for the other. What happens in this story only cements my love and beliefs I have for this powerful holiday.
No Sleep by Nyla K.
“You’re like… a dream. When everything else is a nightmare.” Ah my poor Asa, I felt it all for him. To live life as he does isn’t truly living and it was heartbreaking to see. Enter Jules who is full of kindness, life, and happiness. Through their fast friendship, which quickly heats up, they discover the beauty of dreams and love together.
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon
“He is the night made just for me. The darkness in his soul fits me like a glove.” I have a huge soft spot for possessive stalkery-type characters who have no shame about their actions and will do whatever it takes to keep what they view as theirs. So meeting Anthony and Delorean was a delight! I loved how these two meshed together so completely and how through darkness these two not only found light and love, but a home.
October 4, 2023
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
This was such a great anthology that was worth the wait! Not only did I enjoy stories from my favourite authors, I also discovered some amazing new ones to read all their backlists. I was originally only going to read the MM stories but since I recently rediscovered my love for dark MF, I read them all and oh my goodness they were FIRE!
My favourites were Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek and Static by Marie Ann. Mortem was a delightfully spooky addition to the Tennebrose universe and sucked me in completely! Static was another masterpiece that left me wishing I could get more, it was like the most delicious poison and I craved so much more!
This was such a great anthology that was worth the wait! Not only did I enjoy stories from my favourite authors, I also discovered some amazing new ones to read all their backlists. I was originally only going to read the MM stories but since I recently rediscovered my love for dark MF, I read them all and oh my goodness they were FIRE!
My favourites were Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek and Static by Marie Ann. Mortem was a delightfully spooky addition to the Tennebrose universe and sucked me in completely! Static was another masterpiece that left me wishing I could get more, it was like the most delicious poison and I craved so much more!
Read
September 12, 2023I see Nyla K. featured —> I read 👁
September 25, 2025
I only read 2 from this anthology so my rating reflects only those 3 stories.
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat - 3 Stars
This was a smutty little story. Sooooo much blood play.🩸 And while the sex was hot and there was all the spooky, dark, depraved vibes I was missing just a bit more character and relationship development. It lacked depth and I didn’t care very much about the characters. But still a fun (and short) read.
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole - 5 Stars
This one was amazing. Wow. The twists and turns… The character development... The dark, fucked up vibes... It was everything 👌 I would love more by Michaela Cole. More in this world… Just more. For a short story - this had everything. Character depth, gripping plot, mystery, swoony feelings, smut, dark vibes, and a couple that I was rooting for their HEA. This was awesome and if you read only one short in this anthology I highly recommend this one. Damn. 🎭
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat - 3 Stars
This was a smutty little story. Sooooo much blood play.🩸 And while the sex was hot and there was all the spooky, dark, depraved vibes I was missing just a bit more character and relationship development. It lacked depth and I didn’t care very much about the characters. But still a fun (and short) read.
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole - 5 Stars
This one was amazing. Wow. The twists and turns… The character development... The dark, fucked up vibes... It was everything 👌 I would love more by Michaela Cole. More in this world… Just more. For a short story - this had everything. Character depth, gripping plot, mystery, swoony feelings, smut, dark vibes, and a couple that I was rooting for their HEA. This was awesome and if you read only one short in this anthology I highly recommend this one. Damn. 🎭
October 2, 2023
I am absolutely loving this Anthology and the fear and spookiness within is perfect for this time of year 🎃🥵💦 Plus some of my favourite authors are apart of this anthology.
SONGBIRD - Victoria Woods!
I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of this short story and devoured in one sitting.
Victoria really captured Bastien's accent and the mystery and spookiness to characters effortlessly. Some dark tropes captured which for a short book is brilliant!
I could not tell which way it was going to go and the sexual chemistry and moments were STEAMY AF 🥵 Absolutely loved.
TOKO - Roxanna C Revell!
Holyguacamole i devoured this too. I absolutely 💯 cannot express how well these are written! I absolutely loved how Roxanna captured the fear but yet the desire too. For me Naomi's sass and strength really shone through the book and the chapters.
Naomi and Dom gravitate to eachother and their steam is off the friggin charts!! 🥵
I have to admit, Tommy, Frank and Billy are absolute brilliant secondary characters and they played a huge part within.
The growth of Naomi and understanding her fear and seeing how she develops and changes at the end was beautifully written!
SONGBIRD - Victoria Woods!
I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of this short story and devoured in one sitting.
Victoria really captured Bastien's accent and the mystery and spookiness to characters effortlessly. Some dark tropes captured which for a short book is brilliant!
I could not tell which way it was going to go and the sexual chemistry and moments were STEAMY AF 🥵 Absolutely loved.
TOKO - Roxanna C Revell!
Holyguacamole i devoured this too. I absolutely 💯 cannot express how well these are written! I absolutely loved how Roxanna captured the fear but yet the desire too. For me Naomi's sass and strength really shone through the book and the chapters.
Naomi and Dom gravitate to eachother and their steam is off the friggin charts!! 🥵
I have to admit, Tommy, Frank and Billy are absolute brilliant secondary characters and they played a huge part within.
The growth of Naomi and understanding her fear and seeing how she develops and changes at the end was beautifully written!
November 4, 2023
✨Mortem Obire - Ashlyn Drewek✨
Loved, loved that short story, I was sooo happy to be back in Tennebrose, it was the right amount of dark and spooky !! I was deep in it, it was short and intense, I wasn’t expecting this plot and it was even better 😍
✨Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole✨
Whoaaaa that one was really intense, I was really surprised that I liked it this much, it was disturbing but not in a bad way, the vibe is just right with dark and Halloween. But whoaa intense, I cannot think of anything else 🤣
I might read some more novellas before the release.
I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thought 😍
Loved, loved that short story, I was sooo happy to be back in Tennebrose, it was the right amount of dark and spooky !! I was deep in it, it was short and intense, I wasn’t expecting this plot and it was even better 😍
✨Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole✨
Whoaaaa that one was really intense, I was really surprised that I liked it this much, it was disturbing but not in a bad way, the vibe is just right with dark and Halloween. But whoaa intense, I cannot think of anything else 🤣
I might read some more novellas before the release.
I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thought 😍
Read
October 15, 2023i only read two stories so i won’t rate. i may update later if i decide to read any more!
mortem obire - ashlyn drewek
i’ve been WAITING for this one!!! and it did not disappoint!! chapter one immediately had me screeching!!!!! FUCK the whole thing was so good, not just the couple but the plot too and it puts you perfectly in that spooky october headspace!! so yes the mood, the secrets, the mysteries, the reveal, all of it was very well done!!! plus it’s besties to lovers!!! it literally couldn’t be a miss if it tried😌 4.5 stars
the taste of crimson - hellie heat
“I want to bathe in [blood] with him, this symbol of my new life, my greatest fear now my greatest triumph.” what a freaking ride!! i love the journey adrien goes on and the way it’s told through blood, so much blood🤭 4 stars
mortem obire - ashlyn drewek
i’ve been WAITING for this one!!! and it did not disappoint!! chapter one immediately had me screeching!!!!! FUCK the whole thing was so good, not just the couple but the plot too and it puts you perfectly in that spooky october headspace!! so yes the mood, the secrets, the mysteries, the reveal, all of it was very well done!!! plus it’s besties to lovers!!! it literally couldn’t be a miss if it tried😌 4.5 stars
the taste of crimson - hellie heat
“I want to bathe in [blood] with him, this symbol of my new life, my greatest fear now my greatest triumph.” what a freaking ride!! i love the journey adrien goes on and the way it’s told through blood, so much blood🤭 4 stars
October 12, 2023
What a fantastically spooky collection of stories. They all gave such Halloween vibes and felt perfect for the holiday. It’s my first anthology that I’ve read and I can honestly say I’ve loved every part of it! I loved being able to read novellas from authors that are new to me and reading some from a few of my favourite authors, it was a brilliant mix. If you’re looking for a spooky read that will have you second guessing some of your fears, then this is for you! If you read all 12 then you’ll find a special Easter egg too!
October 13, 2023
This antho!!!! Omg!!! Every author has really outdid themselves. Each story is catered to a different phobia. And they did not disappoint! Dark, twisted, spicy, and greatness!!
This Antho will literally keep your nose in it. And every story has you begging for more! Love love love!!!
This Antho will literally keep your nose in it. And every story has you begging for more! Love love love!!!
November 18, 2023
Mortem Obire by Ashlyn Drewek
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I adored the entire premise. So clever, executed seamlessly, and gave me the best Halloween vibes. Seriously reminded me of my childhood, ya know without all the butt sex. 😉🤣
But we all know that’s the best part. Come on!
Anywho, just another magical addition to this wonderful series! Keep ‘em coming Ashlyn Drewek!
No Sleep by Nyla K
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
You really got a feel for Asa’s phobia, it made me feel irritable, anxious, and exhausted right there with him.
I loved the way things started off with Asa spying on Jules and quickly escalated from there. Not every author can do instalove but Nyla did a fab job.
Of course her smut is always a pat above the rest and in this case it was a sweet and swoony as it was burning hot.
And the way the mystery of Asa’s sister’s disappearance unfolded was done masterfully. Crazy!
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow!
Everything I’ve read so far by Stef has had a taste of darkness but this right here? My girl immersed herself in black. And I absolutely adored every second.
Her writing is so lyrical and beautiful, reading this story felt like listening to the most beautiful song. The ones that grip your heart and never let go.
Anthony had a horrible past that left him homeless and running into the arms of all the wrong men. Delorean at first appearance is simply another of those black hearted men. Yet while those that came before catered only to their sadistic pleasures, Dee wanted to possess and cherish and never let go.
This story reminded me a bit of one of mt favorite dark romance authors, Charity B. It left me salivating for more. More darkness, more deadly possessiveness and definitely more raw smut. Gimme!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I adored the entire premise. So clever, executed seamlessly, and gave me the best Halloween vibes. Seriously reminded me of my childhood, ya know without all the butt sex. 😉🤣
But we all know that’s the best part. Come on!
Anywho, just another magical addition to this wonderful series! Keep ‘em coming Ashlyn Drewek!
No Sleep by Nyla K
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
You really got a feel for Asa’s phobia, it made me feel irritable, anxious, and exhausted right there with him.
I loved the way things started off with Asa spying on Jules and quickly escalated from there. Not every author can do instalove but Nyla did a fab job.
Of course her smut is always a pat above the rest and in this case it was a sweet and swoony as it was burning hot.
And the way the mystery of Asa’s sister’s disappearance unfolded was done masterfully. Crazy!
Becoming His Angel by S.M. Landon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow!
Everything I’ve read so far by Stef has had a taste of darkness but this right here? My girl immersed herself in black. And I absolutely adored every second.
Her writing is so lyrical and beautiful, reading this story felt like listening to the most beautiful song. The ones that grip your heart and never let go.
Anthony had a horrible past that left him homeless and running into the arms of all the wrong men. Delorean at first appearance is simply another of those black hearted men. Yet while those that came before catered only to their sadistic pleasures, Dee wanted to possess and cherish and never let go.
This story reminded me a bit of one of mt favorite dark romance authors, Charity B. It left me salivating for more. More darkness, more deadly possessiveness and definitely more raw smut. Gimme!
October 13, 2023
I've read 3 of the shorts so far and they've all been different and amazing! Not all of the stories are "creepy" even though they're all based around fears
Songbird: MF. this one has a historical romance element. The fear vibe wasn't super strong but I did enjoy the story.
No Sleep (Nyla K): MM. Not gonna lie I specifically got the anthology for this story because I'm OBSESSED with Nyla's writing and this did not disappoint. You got all the usual things Nyla is know for... broken boy, mega-neediness, 🔥 spice... AND an intro into a new world she has said she plans to expand on. This story was def more sweet than creepy so if you're worried about being scared don't be! This is a complete story for this couple.
Static (Marie Ann): MM. ok THIS ONE WAS CREEPY lol it's set in an abandoned motel turned into a Haunted House where ANYTHING goes. The creepy clown finds a new toy in one of the guests going through the maze and decides he wants to play. This was SO GOOD and the way she described the scenery I totally felt like I was there. This appears to only be a portion of their story and I'm really hoping it eventually gets a full novel because I would LOVE to read the rest of it!
Songbird: MF. this one has a historical romance element. The fear vibe wasn't super strong but I did enjoy the story.
No Sleep (Nyla K): MM. Not gonna lie I specifically got the anthology for this story because I'm OBSESSED with Nyla's writing and this did not disappoint. You got all the usual things Nyla is know for... broken boy, mega-neediness, 🔥 spice... AND an intro into a new world she has said she plans to expand on. This story was def more sweet than creepy so if you're worried about being scared don't be! This is a complete story for this couple.
Static (Marie Ann): MM. ok THIS ONE WAS CREEPY lol it's set in an abandoned motel turned into a Haunted House where ANYTHING goes. The creepy clown finds a new toy in one of the guests going through the maze and decides he wants to play. This was SO GOOD and the way she described the scenery I totally felt like I was there. This appears to only be a portion of their story and I'm really hoping it eventually gets a full novel because I would LOVE to read the rest of it!
October 2, 2023
🎃 MORTEM OBIRE by Ashlyn Drewek
⭐️4.5/5
-Jamie and Larkin
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Best Friends to Lovers
-Hurt/Comfort
-HEA/HFN
▪️Thoughts:
This Halloween story is set in Winslow. Tennebrose comes with some haunting ghost and stories that especially come more alive during this time of year. Jamie and Larkin have been best friends since they were kids and they use to love Halloween now they hate it.
After a very traumatic event they both went through they always come together during Halloween just wanting it to pass by. I enjoyed reading more about Tennebrose and also seeing it in another person's perspective, how they can feel things around them.
Loved these two characters together especially because they had such a special friendship. Larkin finally finding such a wonderful friend in Jamie he will never let him go and is happy to protect him always. Jamie will always be there for Larkin even though it's hard for him at times because of his love for his best friend.
And reading about certain characters a little surprise the author gave us 👀 I was beyond happy to find that in this novella!💖
💬“I’m serious. I need you in my life, Jamie. You’re my best friend. The only person who really gets me.” “You can’t give up on your dream job for me.” “I’d give up everything for you.”
🎃 POCKETS DEEP IN DARKER WATERS by Fae Quin
⭐️5/5
-Henry and Oliver
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Enemies to Lovers
-Sci-Fi Fantasy
-Cliffhanger
▪️Thoughts:
It was fun reading the bickering between these two characters. They're stranded in the middle of the sea and just will not stop insulting or one-up each other because obviously knowing who is right and who is wrong is more important hahaha. Henry and Oliver come from different backgrounds. Henry is a Lord and his family is wealthy where as Oliver doesn't have education and is poor. Furthermore the main reason to why they're stranded is Oliver's fault so yeah... Henry is a bit bitter and scared. And why is he scared you asked? Poor Henry is scared of the water. 😬 I will say this all this bickering and arguing really did make Henry think of other things besides the unknown deep waters.
By the end I was so happy so see how their opinions and feelings changed about each other. They talked and mostly felt that what they had hated about each other was not what they ever thought truly felt. All I can say is where is the rest? Cliffhanger 🥲 Because I so need more from Henry and Oliver!🥹
💬 “No, silver tongue.” He murmured, though this time the nickname did not seem like an insult. “We’re not going to die.” It seemed his fear of the water had been placed on the back burner for now, like mine had as we let the exhaustion overcome us and fell asleep to the rocking of the waves.
🎃 THE TASTE OF CRIMSON by Hellie Heat
⭐️3.5/5
-Adrien
-MM
-First Person Single POV
-Blood Play
-HEA/HFN
Interesting novella about trauma and revenge. Adrien has lived his life in fear and after he meets the person who saved him everything feels right. I do highly recommend to read the TWs for this novella because it does contain sensitive topics for some readers.
💬 He’s mine and I’m his— we’re one mind, one heart. One soul, connected in every way— perhaps because of the bond we share, the gift he gave me.
🎃 STATIC by Marie Ann
⭐️4/5
-Madison and Static
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Cliffhanger
Now this story was 🤯 this is the first time I have read from this author and it will certainly not be the last. Madison and Static hopefully will come back someday with their own book and when they do I'm ready because this was just the beginning of their dark and twisted relationship. Once again TWs are listed for this story as well the way the story is told how Madison is navigating through a haunted placed called Mayhem Motel makes you feel like you're the one there.
🎃 MASK OF SIN by Michaela Cole
⭐️5/5
-Zane and Graysin
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Wow this story my gosh once again this is a new to me author and I will definitely be reading more books from them! This might be my favorite it was intense, heartbreaking, and made me fell so much in a short amount of pages. Those three brothers what they did for revenge and by the end what they also did for Graysin too. Graysin and Zane are perfect together! The TWs for this story are not to be taken lightly.
🎃 NO SLEEP by Nyla K
⭐️3.5/5
-Asa and Jules
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Interesting story poor Asa was so tired but his fears didn't make it easy for him to get rest plus the weight of him worrying for his sister. In ways I guessed what was going to happen regarding Asa's part of the story. Asa felt Jules saved him and helped in many ways which made it easier to finally rest when someone else was there to protect and keep him safe.
💬 “You’re so different. I mean, yes, you’re a guy, and I’ve never…” He stops to swallow. “But it’s not just that. You’re like… a dream. When everything else is a nightmare.”
🎃 BECOMING HIS ANGEL by S.M. Landon
⭐️5/5
-Anthony and Delorean
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Another new to me author and I absolutely loved their work. As soon as I started this short story I wanted to read more and when I finished it I wished it was longer! Becoming His Angel is sweet in a dark twisted way and these characters found something in each other that made them bound fiercely. Anthony wanted a home and Dee gave him that he understood Anthony. And all the things he did for Anthony even though they were for his own benefit were things Anthony craved and needed. Overall, this was a great short story I really enjoyed this one!
💬 He is magnificent. He is the night made just for me. The darkness in his soul fits me like a glove. I let it enchant me, bring me under its spell, where I hope to stay captive forever.
I received this book as an ARC, all of this is my honest opinion.
⭐️4.5/5
-Jamie and Larkin
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Best Friends to Lovers
-Hurt/Comfort
-HEA/HFN
▪️Thoughts:
This Halloween story is set in Winslow. Tennebrose comes with some haunting ghost and stories that especially come more alive during this time of year. Jamie and Larkin have been best friends since they were kids and they use to love Halloween now they hate it.
After a very traumatic event they both went through they always come together during Halloween just wanting it to pass by. I enjoyed reading more about Tennebrose and also seeing it in another person's perspective, how they can feel things around them.
Loved these two characters together especially because they had such a special friendship. Larkin finally finding such a wonderful friend in Jamie he will never let him go and is happy to protect him always. Jamie will always be there for Larkin even though it's hard for him at times because of his love for his best friend.
And reading about certain characters a little surprise the author gave us 👀 I was beyond happy to find that in this novella!💖
💬“I’m serious. I need you in my life, Jamie. You’re my best friend. The only person who really gets me.” “You can’t give up on your dream job for me.” “I’d give up everything for you.”
🎃 POCKETS DEEP IN DARKER WATERS by Fae Quin
⭐️5/5
-Henry and Oliver
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Enemies to Lovers
-Sci-Fi Fantasy
-Cliffhanger
▪️Thoughts:
It was fun reading the bickering between these two characters. They're stranded in the middle of the sea and just will not stop insulting or one-up each other because obviously knowing who is right and who is wrong is more important hahaha. Henry and Oliver come from different backgrounds. Henry is a Lord and his family is wealthy where as Oliver doesn't have education and is poor. Furthermore the main reason to why they're stranded is Oliver's fault so yeah... Henry is a bit bitter and scared. And why is he scared you asked? Poor Henry is scared of the water. 😬 I will say this all this bickering and arguing really did make Henry think of other things besides the unknown deep waters.
By the end I was so happy so see how their opinions and feelings changed about each other. They talked and mostly felt that what they had hated about each other was not what they ever thought truly felt. All I can say is where is the rest? Cliffhanger 🥲 Because I so need more from Henry and Oliver!🥹
💬 “No, silver tongue.” He murmured, though this time the nickname did not seem like an insult. “We’re not going to die.” It seemed his fear of the water had been placed on the back burner for now, like mine had as we let the exhaustion overcome us and fell asleep to the rocking of the waves.
🎃 THE TASTE OF CRIMSON by Hellie Heat
⭐️3.5/5
-Adrien
-MM
-First Person Single POV
-Blood Play
-HEA/HFN
Interesting novella about trauma and revenge. Adrien has lived his life in fear and after he meets the person who saved him everything feels right. I do highly recommend to read the TWs for this novella because it does contain sensitive topics for some readers.
💬 He’s mine and I’m his— we’re one mind, one heart. One soul, connected in every way— perhaps because of the bond we share, the gift he gave me.
🎃 STATIC by Marie Ann
⭐️4/5
-Madison and Static
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-Cliffhanger
Now this story was 🤯 this is the first time I have read from this author and it will certainly not be the last. Madison and Static hopefully will come back someday with their own book and when they do I'm ready because this was just the beginning of their dark and twisted relationship. Once again TWs are listed for this story as well the way the story is told how Madison is navigating through a haunted placed called Mayhem Motel makes you feel like you're the one there.
🎃 MASK OF SIN by Michaela Cole
⭐️5/5
-Zane and Graysin
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Wow this story my gosh once again this is a new to me author and I will definitely be reading more books from them! This might be my favorite it was intense, heartbreaking, and made me fell so much in a short amount of pages. Those three brothers what they did for revenge and by the end what they also did for Graysin too. Graysin and Zane are perfect together! The TWs for this story are not to be taken lightly.
🎃 NO SLEEP by Nyla K
⭐️3.5/5
-Asa and Jules
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Interesting story poor Asa was so tired but his fears didn't make it easy for him to get rest plus the weight of him worrying for his sister. In ways I guessed what was going to happen regarding Asa's part of the story. Asa felt Jules saved him and helped in many ways which made it easier to finally rest when someone else was there to protect and keep him safe.
💬 “You’re so different. I mean, yes, you’re a guy, and I’ve never…” He stops to swallow. “But it’s not just that. You’re like… a dream. When everything else is a nightmare.”
🎃 BECOMING HIS ANGEL by S.M. Landon
⭐️5/5
-Anthony and Delorean
-MM
-First Person Dual POV
-HEA/HFN
Another new to me author and I absolutely loved their work. As soon as I started this short story I wanted to read more and when I finished it I wished it was longer! Becoming His Angel is sweet in a dark twisted way and these characters found something in each other that made them bound fiercely. Anthony wanted a home and Dee gave him that he understood Anthony. And all the things he did for Anthony even though they were for his own benefit were things Anthony craved and needed. Overall, this was a great short story I really enjoyed this one!
💬 He is magnificent. He is the night made just for me. The darkness in his soul fits me like a glove. I let it enchant me, bring me under its spell, where I hope to stay captive forever.
I received this book as an ARC, all of this is my honest opinion.
October 18, 2023
💤🦩🅽🅾 🆂🅻🅴🅴🅿, ʙʏ ɴʏʟᴀ ᴋ.🦩💤
∙·▫ᵒᴼᵒ▫ₒ▫ᵒᴼ “𝚃𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙… 𝙽𝚘 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚠𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍… 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝-𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚜𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚗𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚏𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚑 𝚒𝚜 𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚝𝚘. ’𝚃𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝚍𝚎𝚟𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍… 𝚃𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙. 𝚃𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙, 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖. 𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚘𝚏 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑, 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎… 𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚞𝚏𝚏𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚕 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚕, 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝… 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚞𝚜 𝚙𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎.” ᴼᵒ▫ₒ▫ᵒᴼᵒ▫·∙
ʜᴀᴍʟᴇᴛ, ᴡɪʟʟɪᴀᴍ sʜᴀᴋᴇsᴘᴇᴀʀᴇ
“ᴀɴᴅ sᴜᴅᴅᴇɴʟʏ, ᴍʏ ᴘʜᴏʙɪᴀ ᴡᴀs ʀᴀɢɪɴɢ. ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜɪs ᴅᴀʀᴋ ᴘʀᴇsᴇɴᴄᴇ, ʟᴏᴏᴍɪɴɢ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴍʏ ʜᴇᴀᴅ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ sᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴏғ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴅᴀʏ’ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴍʏ ʙʀᴀɪɴ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ɢᴇᴛ sᴏ ᴛɪʀᴇᴅ, ɪ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅɴ’ᴛ ᴛᴇʟʟ ɪғ ɪ ᴡᴀs ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇ ᴏʀ ɴᴏᴛ.”
My sweet, baby, Asa! My heart bleeds for this beautifully broken angel. No Sleep, had a different feel to my previous reads from this anthology, and I loved it. Asa, and Jules story, focuses around Somniphobia; the irrational fear of sleep. And what a hauntingly poignant, but equally heart-warming in its own right, journey, these boys led us on. Nyla, absolutely nailed this insidious fear, that snares sufferers in its anxiety, paranoia inducing web. I really need a full-length version from Jules and Asa, this cannot be the end. They're just too precious.
On a second note, Rory and Pup, there's a story there too! One I'm praying for. I need it badly.
🤡🪓🃏 𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖈 𝔟𝔶 𝔐𝔞𝔯𝔦𝔢 𝔄𝔫𝔫🃏🪓🤡
🩸“𝕳𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖗 𝖙𝖍𝖔𝖚𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖆𝖇𝖔𝖚𝖙 𝖉𝖗𝖔𝖜𝖓𝖎𝖓’ 𝖎𝖓 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝖇𝖑𝖔𝖔𝖉?”
“𝔚-𝔴𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔡𝔬-𝔡𝔬 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔴-𝔴𝔞𝔫𝔱?” ℑ 𝔠𝔥𝔬𝔨𝔢 𝔬𝔫 𝔪𝔶 𝔬𝔴𝔫 𝔰𝔬𝔟𝔰, 𝔥𝔦𝔠𝔠𝔲𝔭𝔭𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔴𝔞𝔦𝔩𝔦𝔫𝔤.
“𝕿𝖔 𝖍𝖊𝖆𝖗 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖘𝖈𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒.”🩸
🤡 “𝕿𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖇𝖔𝖞 𝖎𝖘 𝖏𝖚𝖘𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖊𝖘𝖘. 𝕴 𝖆𝖑𝖒𝖔𝖘𝖙 𝖉𝖔𝖓’𝖙 𝖍𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖙𝖔 𝖜𝖔𝖗𝖐 𝖙𝖔 𝖘𝖈𝖆𝖗𝖊 𝖍𝖎𝖒— 𝖍𝖊’𝖘 𝖉𝖔𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖊𝖓𝖔𝖚𝖌𝖍 𝖔𝖋 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖔𝖓 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖔𝖜𝖓. 𝕳𝖎𝖘 𝖇𝖗𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖒𝖚𝖘𝖙 𝖇𝖊 𝖆 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖉𝖑𝖞 𝖒𝖊𝖘𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖟𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖕𝖑𝖆𝖈𝖊.” 🤡
🪓“𝕳𝖎𝖘 𝖆𝖙𝖙𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝖎𝖘 𝖒𝖆𝖌𝖓𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖊𝖓𝖙.’ 𝖂𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖍𝖎𝖒, 𝖎𝖙’𝖘 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖆𝖑𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖞 𝖘𝖔 𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖋𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖓𝖙. 𝕴 𝖉𝖔𝖓’𝖙 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖐𝖊 𝖍𝖎𝖒 𝖒𝖞 𝖛𝖎𝖈𝖙𝖎𝖒. 𝕴 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖍𝖎𝖒 𝖙𝖔 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊.”🪓
Trust Marie to choose a clown as her character for the aptly named PHOBIA Anthology. Because, well… Clowns are scary as shit! 😂 I don't think any other author could get me to not only read, but also love a story about an unhinged clown named Static, that works with like-minded misfits at the also eerily named Motel Mayhem. Scaring the living daylights out of people that are foolish enough to sign their souls away for one torture filled night at the abandoned motel.
Static is a fast-paced, statically charged novella that will have the hairs on the back of your neck standing on end. I loved our main character Madison, so much! He was just the sweetest and I wanted to swaddle him up in a blanket from Statics corruption (but, who is corrupting whom?) Madison turned out to be a sweet surprise, enough so, to make an ax-wielding clown go rogue for the night.
I had so much fun with this, as I do with anything depraved that comes from this author, and I'm hoping and praying that we get more from Madison and Static soon.
🖤🐾 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗞 𝗢𝗙 𝙎𝙄𝙉 ʙʏ ᴍɪᴄʜᴀᴇʟᴀ ᴄᴏʟᴇ 🐾🖤
Mask Of Sin was such a nail-bitingly good treat. And definitely the darkest thing written by Michaela Cole! I'm hoping this isn't the end of Mask Of Sin because I am obsessed with Graysin, AKA "Kitten" and his captors Demon, Devil and Wolfie. From the very emotional prologue to the heart-pounding end of this short story, I found myself completely consumed in its twisted web of revenge, deceit and shocking truths. Everyone is wearing a mask, some of sin, and one of the devil himself. This was extremely steamy and had one of the hottest scenes in it, I've read in a while. Absolutely thrilling cat (cats) and mouse game, and I had so much fun with it.
∙·▫ᵒᴼᵒ▫ₒ▫ᵒᴼ “𝚃𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙… 𝙽𝚘 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚠𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍… 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝-𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚜𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚗𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚏𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚑 𝚒𝚜 𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚝𝚘. ’𝚃𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝚍𝚎𝚟𝚘𝚞𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍… 𝚃𝚘 𝚍𝚒𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙. 𝚃𝚘 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙, 𝚙𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖. 𝙵𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚘𝚏 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑, 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎… 𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚞𝚏𝚏𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚕 𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚕, 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝… 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚞𝚜 𝚙𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎.” ᴼᵒ▫ₒ▫ᵒᴼᵒ▫·∙
ʜᴀᴍʟᴇᴛ, ᴡɪʟʟɪᴀᴍ sʜᴀᴋᴇsᴘᴇᴀʀᴇ
“ᴀɴᴅ sᴜᴅᴅᴇɴʟʏ, ᴍʏ ᴘʜᴏʙɪᴀ ᴡᴀs ʀᴀɢɪɴɢ. ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜɪs ᴅᴀʀᴋ ᴘʀᴇsᴇɴᴄᴇ, ʟᴏᴏᴍɪɴɢ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴍʏ ʜᴇᴀᴅ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ sᴇᴄᴏɴᴅ ᴏғ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴅᴀʏ’ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴍʏ ʙʀᴀɪɴ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ɢᴇᴛ sᴏ ᴛɪʀᴇᴅ, ɪ ᴄᴏᴜʟᴅɴ’ᴛ ᴛᴇʟʟ ɪғ ɪ ᴡᴀs ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇ ᴏʀ ɴᴏᴛ.”
My sweet, baby, Asa! My heart bleeds for this beautifully broken angel. No Sleep, had a different feel to my previous reads from this anthology, and I loved it. Asa, and Jules story, focuses around Somniphobia; the irrational fear of sleep. And what a hauntingly poignant, but equally heart-warming in its own right, journey, these boys led us on. Nyla, absolutely nailed this insidious fear, that snares sufferers in its anxiety, paranoia inducing web. I really need a full-length version from Jules and Asa, this cannot be the end. They're just too precious.
On a second note, Rory and Pup, there's a story there too! One I'm praying for. I need it badly.
🤡🪓🃏 𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖈 𝔟𝔶 𝔐𝔞𝔯𝔦𝔢 𝔄𝔫𝔫🃏🪓🤡
🩸“𝕳𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖗 𝖙𝖍𝖔𝖚𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖆𝖇𝖔𝖚𝖙 𝖉𝖗𝖔𝖜𝖓𝖎𝖓’ 𝖎𝖓 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖔𝖜𝖓 𝖇𝖑𝖔𝖔𝖉?”
“𝔚-𝔴𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔡𝔬-𝔡𝔬 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔴-𝔴𝔞𝔫𝔱?” ℑ 𝔠𝔥𝔬𝔨𝔢 𝔬𝔫 𝔪𝔶 𝔬𝔴𝔫 𝔰𝔬𝔟𝔰, 𝔥𝔦𝔠𝔠𝔲𝔭𝔭𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔴𝔞𝔦𝔩𝔦𝔫𝔤.
“𝕿𝖔 𝖍𝖊𝖆𝖗 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖘𝖈𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒.”🩸
🤡 “𝕿𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖇𝖔𝖞 𝖎𝖘 𝖏𝖚𝖘𝖙 𝖆 𝖒𝖊𝖘𝖘. 𝕴 𝖆𝖑𝖒𝖔𝖘𝖙 𝖉𝖔𝖓’𝖙 𝖍𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖙𝖔 𝖜𝖔𝖗𝖐 𝖙𝖔 𝖘𝖈𝖆𝖗𝖊 𝖍𝖎𝖒— 𝖍𝖊’𝖘 𝖉𝖔𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖊𝖓𝖔𝖚𝖌𝖍 𝖔𝖋 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖔𝖓 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖔𝖜𝖓. 𝕳𝖎𝖘 𝖇𝖗𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖒𝖚𝖘𝖙 𝖇𝖊 𝖆 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖉𝖑𝖞 𝖒𝖊𝖘𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖟𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖕𝖑𝖆𝖈𝖊.” 🤡
🪓“𝕳𝖎𝖘 𝖆𝖙𝖙𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝖎𝖘 𝖒𝖆𝖌𝖓𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖊𝖓𝖙.’ 𝖂𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖍𝖎𝖒, 𝖎𝖙’𝖘 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖆𝖑𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖞 𝖘𝖔 𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖋𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖓𝖙. 𝕴 𝖉𝖔𝖓’𝖙 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖔 𝖒𝖆𝖐𝖊 𝖍𝖎𝖒 𝖒𝖞 𝖛𝖎𝖈𝖙𝖎𝖒. 𝕴 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖍𝖎𝖒 𝖙𝖔 𝖜𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊.”🪓
Trust Marie to choose a clown as her character for the aptly named PHOBIA Anthology. Because, well… Clowns are scary as shit! 😂 I don't think any other author could get me to not only read, but also love a story about an unhinged clown named Static, that works with like-minded misfits at the also eerily named Motel Mayhem. Scaring the living daylights out of people that are foolish enough to sign their souls away for one torture filled night at the abandoned motel.
Static is a fast-paced, statically charged novella that will have the hairs on the back of your neck standing on end. I loved our main character Madison, so much! He was just the sweetest and I wanted to swaddle him up in a blanket from Statics corruption (but, who is corrupting whom?) Madison turned out to be a sweet surprise, enough so, to make an ax-wielding clown go rogue for the night.
I had so much fun with this, as I do with anything depraved that comes from this author, and I'm hoping and praying that we get more from Madison and Static soon.
🖤🐾 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗞 𝗢𝗙 𝙎𝙄𝙉 ʙʏ ᴍɪᴄʜᴀᴇʟᴀ ᴄᴏʟᴇ 🐾🖤
Mask Of Sin was such a nail-bitingly good treat. And definitely the darkest thing written by Michaela Cole! I'm hoping this isn't the end of Mask Of Sin because I am obsessed with Graysin, AKA "Kitten" and his captors Demon, Devil and Wolfie. From the very emotional prologue to the heart-pounding end of this short story, I found myself completely consumed in its twisted web of revenge, deceit and shocking truths. Everyone is wearing a mask, some of sin, and one of the devil himself. This was extremely steamy and had one of the hottest scenes in it, I've read in a while. Absolutely thrilling cat (cats) and mouse game, and I had so much fun with it.
September 25, 2023
Mortem Obire | M/ M - ASHLYN DREWEN
5 Stars, 2 Smut
Happy Halloween. Larkin and Jamie are best friends who hide dark secrets. However, their past comes back, bringing those secrets to light. These two love each other so much, that when certain things are revealed, they don't even blink at the truth. They support each other and love harder. They work together to defeat evils, all while growing what they have.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters | M/M - FAE QUIN
4 Stars, 1.5 Smut
This story was cute. I'm looking forward to Part 2. These two have a lot to work through. Henry is tied to a contract he wants nothing to do with, and Oliver is simply trying to survive. Part 2 is going to bring a lot of drama as they make their lives become what they want and need.
The Taste of Crimson | M/ M - HELLIE HEAT
5 Stars, 3.5 Smut
Probably the darkest of the M/M stories. Lots and lots of the color red - if you get my drift. Adrian's life isn't easy. What he goes through is terrible, the reason for his fear/phobia, but then one night, someone new comes into his life. Everything changes for him, and he grows. Things change, but most importantly, he finds someone to love him fully, the way he deserves. I enjoyed their story a lot.
Static | M/ M - MARIE ANN
5 Stars, 2 Smut
I need more. Oh, my gosh. Static captivated me. Madison's fear is felt, but something about Static silences that fear, turns it into something more. I couldn't stop until I was finished and turned the page, looking for the rest. Their relationship will be so dark and twisted, but I'm here for it. This little glimpse into this dark and haunted world just wasn't enough. I mean that in the best way. It's so good.
Mask of Sin | M/ M - MICHAELA COLE
5 Stars, 4 Smut
I called it. I called it so fast and finger-gunned myself when I was right. However, it took nothing away from the story. I loved every moment of it. The aspect is fantastic. At times, it's very heartbreaking, but then revenge is served when needed. It was great. I'd love to read more about this couple. I loved it.
No Sleep | M/ M - NYLA K
5 Stars, 4.5 Smut
These two are so swoon worthy. The way they're drawn to each other is wonderful. In true Nyla fashion, it's filthy, a little taboo, and a whole lot of amazing. It's a short story, but it feels complete. It isn't rushed. They have an amazing build up, and the way they feel, it's quick, but real. There's some drama, but it's needed to help Ada start to move on and face his phobia. Jules doesn't judge, he only tries to help, and give Asa what he needs. I'd take more of them but also feel so happy and content with their story.
Becoming His Angel | M/ M - SM LANDON
4 Stars, 2 Smut
These two are twisted, and very much messed up. They belong together. Anthony should be afraid, but he sees Delorean for who he is, and he accepts all aspects of him. It was dark, but romantic in their own way. I do wish it was a bit longer as the epilogue didn't feel like an epilogue. I enjoyed the rest of their story, and if there's a story for Andre, I absolutely want to read that.
5 Stars, 2 Smut
Happy Halloween. Larkin and Jamie are best friends who hide dark secrets. However, their past comes back, bringing those secrets to light. These two love each other so much, that when certain things are revealed, they don't even blink at the truth. They support each other and love harder. They work together to defeat evils, all while growing what they have.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters | M/M - FAE QUIN
4 Stars, 1.5 Smut
This story was cute. I'm looking forward to Part 2. These two have a lot to work through. Henry is tied to a contract he wants nothing to do with, and Oliver is simply trying to survive. Part 2 is going to bring a lot of drama as they make their lives become what they want and need.
The Taste of Crimson | M/ M - HELLIE HEAT
5 Stars, 3.5 Smut
Probably the darkest of the M/M stories. Lots and lots of the color red - if you get my drift. Adrian's life isn't easy. What he goes through is terrible, the reason for his fear/phobia, but then one night, someone new comes into his life. Everything changes for him, and he grows. Things change, but most importantly, he finds someone to love him fully, the way he deserves. I enjoyed their story a lot.
Static | M/ M - MARIE ANN
5 Stars, 2 Smut
I need more. Oh, my gosh. Static captivated me. Madison's fear is felt, but something about Static silences that fear, turns it into something more. I couldn't stop until I was finished and turned the page, looking for the rest. Their relationship will be so dark and twisted, but I'm here for it. This little glimpse into this dark and haunted world just wasn't enough. I mean that in the best way. It's so good.
Mask of Sin | M/ M - MICHAELA COLE
5 Stars, 4 Smut
I called it. I called it so fast and finger-gunned myself when I was right. However, it took nothing away from the story. I loved every moment of it. The aspect is fantastic. At times, it's very heartbreaking, but then revenge is served when needed. It was great. I'd love to read more about this couple. I loved it.
No Sleep | M/ M - NYLA K
5 Stars, 4.5 Smut
These two are so swoon worthy. The way they're drawn to each other is wonderful. In true Nyla fashion, it's filthy, a little taboo, and a whole lot of amazing. It's a short story, but it feels complete. It isn't rushed. They have an amazing build up, and the way they feel, it's quick, but real. There's some drama, but it's needed to help Ada start to move on and face his phobia. Jules doesn't judge, he only tries to help, and give Asa what he needs. I'd take more of them but also feel so happy and content with their story.
Becoming His Angel | M/ M - SM LANDON
4 Stars, 2 Smut
These two are twisted, and very much messed up. They belong together. Anthony should be afraid, but he sees Delorean for who he is, and he accepts all aspects of him. It was dark, but romantic in their own way. I do wish it was a bit longer as the epilogue didn't feel like an epilogue. I enjoyed the rest of their story, and if there's a story for Andre, I absolutely want to read that.
September 22, 2023
First off I want to say I do not like books full of short stories. My reasoning is because you get into a story and then bam!!! It is over. I feel like the stories could continue on. That being said, I was asked to read this book of short stories and here are my reviews on the ones I read.
Scopaesthesia by: A.L. Woods ☆☆☆☆☆
This was the first story in the book and I loved it. It was a spooky read with dark elements. The main characters have quite the background. I would have loved to read a full book on how they came to be. They like to be physical on a whole new level. The risk of being caught really pushes their seduction to a whole new high. Add into this mix the mystery of a wax museum and mysterious figures within and you have a perfect horror mystery. I would love a full book on this one, but enjoyed the short story.
Songbird by: Victoria Woods ☆☆☆☆☆
Wow! Just wow! This story blew me away. If you readers are familiar with this author and have read her book Numinous, then you are in for a treat. This is the story of “Gran” when she was human and how she came to be. Follow the Easter Eggs in this one.
This book has many triggers and is not to be read lightly. So don’t read it if you can’t take it. Just to give you a few examples: physical and mental abuse, addiction, very different sexual experiences, horror, voodoo occult like magic, multiple sex partners to one person, etc. Don’t give it a bad review because you are squeamish.
On that note:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have never read a short story that I didn’t feel was missing key parts or cut too short, when I was done. With that being said, this book left me feeling complete and I didn’t feel like it was missing anything. The story felt full and detailed. It was dark, dangerous and filthy.
The characters were strange and unusual in their own ways. Bastion was dark, mysterious, depraved and sinful. Rosalie was sweet, innocent and very curious. Curious in a time when sex was meant for marriage and most marriages were arranged.
This story is dark, sinful, alluring, hypnotizing and steamy. The heat level of the story is a ten blowing up. I enjoyed the dark and spooky elements along with the setting in the cemetery. It is a page turner that you can’t put down. It will draw you in and captivate you. I applaud Ms. Woods on a job well done.
Scopaesthesia by: A.L. Woods ☆☆☆☆☆
This was the first story in the book and I loved it. It was a spooky read with dark elements. The main characters have quite the background. I would have loved to read a full book on how they came to be. They like to be physical on a whole new level. The risk of being caught really pushes their seduction to a whole new high. Add into this mix the mystery of a wax museum and mysterious figures within and you have a perfect horror mystery. I would love a full book on this one, but enjoyed the short story.
Songbird by: Victoria Woods ☆☆☆☆☆
Wow! Just wow! This story blew me away. If you readers are familiar with this author and have read her book Numinous, then you are in for a treat. This is the story of “Gran” when she was human and how she came to be. Follow the Easter Eggs in this one.
This book has many triggers and is not to be read lightly. So don’t read it if you can’t take it. Just to give you a few examples: physical and mental abuse, addiction, very different sexual experiences, horror, voodoo occult like magic, multiple sex partners to one person, etc. Don’t give it a bad review because you are squeamish.
On that note:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have never read a short story that I didn’t feel was missing key parts or cut too short, when I was done. With that being said, this book left me feeling complete and I didn’t feel like it was missing anything. The story felt full and detailed. It was dark, dangerous and filthy.
The characters were strange and unusual in their own ways. Bastion was dark, mysterious, depraved and sinful. Rosalie was sweet, innocent and very curious. Curious in a time when sex was meant for marriage and most marriages were arranged.
This story is dark, sinful, alluring, hypnotizing and steamy. The heat level of the story is a ten blowing up. I enjoyed the dark and spooky elements along with the setting in the cemetery. It is a page turner that you can’t put down. It will draw you in and captivate you. I applaud Ms. Woods on a job well done.
October 18, 2023
This arc anthology is filled with so many fantastic authors and stories that cross different genres. I will update my review with the stories as I’ve had a chance to read and eventually hope to get to all of the stories. Check out the content warnings for the various stories as the triggers vary from story to story.
Fae Quin - Pockets in Deeper Waters
This story was the most torturous tease because in these short chapters, I’m absolutely hooked on these two characters. It’s an enemies to lovers as Henry and Oliver find themselves stuck on a boat in the middle of the ocean after Oliver attempts to steal and Henry gets stuck in the aftermath. They learn more about each other than the misconceptions they have formed on the other during the time they have worked together. And both are unable to fight their attraction anymore.
Please, please, please tell me that we eventually get more of Henry and Oliver at some point. This sci-fi story has grabbed my attention and really enjoyed it.
Hello Heat - The Taste of Crimson
This dark erotic vampire story follows Adrien who is quiet, keeps his head down and is running from a traumatic, violent and abusive past. Definitely a bit more violent and gore than some of the other stories but this short story was captivating and has you on the edge of your seat along with the MC waiting for the other shoe to drop. Wowza on the ending for this one cause it’s kinda epic.
Michaela Cole - Mask of Sin
Holy twists and turns! This story is much different than I anticipated and I feel like if I say too much it will ruin it for anyone else. This story focuses on Graysin and mostly from his viewpoint with a small part of the story told from another viewpoint. When Graysin gets caught up in a plot for revenge, truths get told and everything isn’t what he expected. This tale that had me until the very end.
Nyla K. - No Sleep
This one grabbed at my heart a little as Asa is in such a troubled space. He’s carrying so much trauma from his past and his refusal to sleep has him in a tailspin of sorts. When the new neighbor Jules moves in, he opens Asa’s eyes to things about himself and is there to support him when the universe he fights so hard to stay away and protect starts falling apart around him. It’s a quick hurt/comfort story with a little Instalove as Jules and Asa fall pretty hard for each other fairly quickly.
Fae Quin - Pockets in Deeper Waters
This story was the most torturous tease because in these short chapters, I’m absolutely hooked on these two characters. It’s an enemies to lovers as Henry and Oliver find themselves stuck on a boat in the middle of the ocean after Oliver attempts to steal and Henry gets stuck in the aftermath. They learn more about each other than the misconceptions they have formed on the other during the time they have worked together. And both are unable to fight their attraction anymore.
Please, please, please tell me that we eventually get more of Henry and Oliver at some point. This sci-fi story has grabbed my attention and really enjoyed it.
Hello Heat - The Taste of Crimson
This dark erotic vampire story follows Adrien who is quiet, keeps his head down and is running from a traumatic, violent and abusive past. Definitely a bit more violent and gore than some of the other stories but this short story was captivating and has you on the edge of your seat along with the MC waiting for the other shoe to drop. Wowza on the ending for this one cause it’s kinda epic.
Michaela Cole - Mask of Sin
Holy twists and turns! This story is much different than I anticipated and I feel like if I say too much it will ruin it for anyone else. This story focuses on Graysin and mostly from his viewpoint with a small part of the story told from another viewpoint. When Graysin gets caught up in a plot for revenge, truths get told and everything isn’t what he expected. This tale that had me until the very end.
Nyla K. - No Sleep
This one grabbed at my heart a little as Asa is in such a troubled space. He’s carrying so much trauma from his past and his refusal to sleep has him in a tailspin of sorts. When the new neighbor Jules moves in, he opens Asa’s eyes to things about himself and is there to support him when the universe he fights so hard to stay away and protect starts falling apart around him. It’s a quick hurt/comfort story with a little Instalove as Jules and Asa fall pretty hard for each other fairly quickly.
November 11, 2023
Scopaesthesia - A.L. Woods (3⭐)
This was alright. It would've been better if it was more developed and if the characters were more developed. This was an interesting concept though.
Mortem Obire - Ashlyn Drewek (4⭐)
This was an interesting story. I liked how their relationship developed and one of the only friends to lovers stories I have enjoyed this much.
Pockets Deep in Dark Water - Fae Quin (3⭐)
This was meh. It didn't feel like they had any chemistry and I had no interest in the characters. This would probably be better if it was longer so I could get to know the characters.
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat (4.5⭐)
LOVED THIS! I loved how protective the vampire mmc is, I loved how unhinged this was, and I hope there is a full length version of this released in the future!
Lobo - J. Dylan (3.5⭐)
This was alright, but it felt disjointed and forced. If it was longer and we got to know the characters better the chemistry would feel a lot better.
Something Sinister This Way Comes - L.K. Reid (3⭐)
This was alright, but I just didn't feel a connection to the characters.
Static - Marie Ann (4.5⭐)
This was so dark and messed up.. I loved it. The Mmc likes scaring people and the mmc is easily scared. They both end up turned on, it was hot as hell. I hope it gets a longer version released!
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole (3.5⭐)
This was kinda cute in the beginning and towards the end. It would've been much better if it was longer as the plot felt a little bit underdeveloped.
No Sleep - Nyla K (4⭐)
This was really cute for the most part. The mmc's phobia of sleep made sense and I really felt for him. The plot twist worked well and although I kinda had an idea what it would be, I was not expecting it how it happened at all!
Becoming His Angel - S.M. Landon (2.5⭐)
This was... weird. The characters didn't have much interaction at all, so it just didn't make sense for the Stockholm syndrome to happen.
This was alright. It would've been better if it was more developed and if the characters were more developed. This was an interesting concept though.
Mortem Obire - Ashlyn Drewek (4⭐)
This was an interesting story. I liked how their relationship developed and one of the only friends to lovers stories I have enjoyed this much.
Pockets Deep in Dark Water - Fae Quin (3⭐)
This was meh. It didn't feel like they had any chemistry and I had no interest in the characters. This would probably be better if it was longer so I could get to know the characters.
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat (4.5⭐)
LOVED THIS! I loved how protective the vampire mmc is, I loved how unhinged this was, and I hope there is a full length version of this released in the future!
Lobo - J. Dylan (3.5⭐)
This was alright, but it felt disjointed and forced. If it was longer and we got to know the characters better the chemistry would feel a lot better.
Something Sinister This Way Comes - L.K. Reid (3⭐)
This was alright, but I just didn't feel a connection to the characters.
Static - Marie Ann (4.5⭐)
This was so dark and messed up.. I loved it. The Mmc likes scaring people and the mmc is easily scared. They both end up turned on, it was hot as hell. I hope it gets a longer version released!
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole (3.5⭐)
This was kinda cute in the beginning and towards the end. It would've been much better if it was longer as the plot felt a little bit underdeveloped.
No Sleep - Nyla K (4⭐)
This was really cute for the most part. The mmc's phobia of sleep made sense and I really felt for him. The plot twist worked well and although I kinda had an idea what it would be, I was not expecting it how it happened at all!
Becoming His Angel - S.M. Landon (2.5⭐)
This was... weird. The characters didn't have much interaction at all, so it just didn't make sense for the Stockholm syndrome to happen.
September 26, 2023
I only read the MM books and these are my reviews. I enjoyed them all but if I had to choose favourites it’d be Mortem Obire , No Sleep & Mask Of Sin. I’m hoping we get extended versions in the future as they all left me wanting more.
Mortem Obire B Ashlyn Drewek
Larkin & Jamie have been friends for years Larkin even saved him from an attack . Jamie has always wanted more more from Larkin he’s loved him for years but when the truths come out will he still feel the same .
Pockets Deep In Darker Waters by Fae Quin
Henry and Oliver get stranded on a row boat in the middle of the ocean . What can go wrong when the two seemingly hate each other . This ends in a cliff hanger so I can’t wait for the conclusion.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat
Adrien runs from the torture at home that should have been his safe haven . Now 10 years later he keeps to himself lets nobody in has no friends but he’s sure he’s being followed. When one of his dreaded half brothers finds hi he doesn’t expect what happens next .
Static by Marie Ann
Madison is persuaded by his so called friends to go to the terming haunted house Mayhem Motel. He reluctantly agreed not knowing what he was in for and now he’s wishing he could back out after checking the website.
Mask Of Sin by Michaela Cole
When their Sister dies Zane , Hudson & Malin decide to make Graysin the person responsible pay . When they find out what really happened the are all shocked none more so than Graysin , the twist at the end was perfect.
No Sleep by Nyla K
Asa has somniphobia which is an extreme fear of falling asleep.
Since he was 13 Asa was brought up by his sister Lena in a trailer on the bayou in Theriot . When Jules and his mother move into the trailer next door Asa can’t stop ogling him. Jules tries to help Asa telling him that not sleeping is causing his mind to make up scenarios that he can’t deal with because he’s so tired . Asa and Jules were perfect and yes I know it’s just nature Nyla K but Bob really 😏
Becoming His Angel by SM Landon
Anthony & Delorean
Delorean has been watching Anthony was a while watching the low life pick him and steal his days earnings. He wants to take him for himself but he refrains until the day he finds him hardly breathing in the alley.
Mortem Obire B Ashlyn Drewek
Larkin & Jamie have been friends for years Larkin even saved him from an attack . Jamie has always wanted more more from Larkin he’s loved him for years but when the truths come out will he still feel the same .
Pockets Deep In Darker Waters by Fae Quin
Henry and Oliver get stranded on a row boat in the middle of the ocean . What can go wrong when the two seemingly hate each other . This ends in a cliff hanger so I can’t wait for the conclusion.
The Taste of Crimson by Hellie Heat
Adrien runs from the torture at home that should have been his safe haven . Now 10 years later he keeps to himself lets nobody in has no friends but he’s sure he’s being followed. When one of his dreaded half brothers finds hi he doesn’t expect what happens next .
Static by Marie Ann
Madison is persuaded by his so called friends to go to the terming haunted house Mayhem Motel. He reluctantly agreed not knowing what he was in for and now he’s wishing he could back out after checking the website.
Mask Of Sin by Michaela Cole
When their Sister dies Zane , Hudson & Malin decide to make Graysin the person responsible pay . When they find out what really happened the are all shocked none more so than Graysin , the twist at the end was perfect.
No Sleep by Nyla K
Asa has somniphobia which is an extreme fear of falling asleep.
Since he was 13 Asa was brought up by his sister Lena in a trailer on the bayou in Theriot . When Jules and his mother move into the trailer next door Asa can’t stop ogling him. Jules tries to help Asa telling him that not sleeping is causing his mind to make up scenarios that he can’t deal with because he’s so tired . Asa and Jules were perfect and yes I know it’s just nature Nyla K but Bob really 😏
Becoming His Angel by SM Landon
Anthony & Delorean
Delorean has been watching Anthony was a while watching the low life pick him and steal his days earnings. He wants to take him for himself but he refrains until the day he finds him hardly breathing in the alley.
October 12, 2023
Phobia is a dark romance anthology featuring a collection of MF and MM stories. I have not read any of the authors featured before, with the exception of Nyla K, and I was absolutely blown away by how much I loved this! I definitely plan on reading more by all of these wonderful authors.
𝚂𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚊𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚒𝚊 𝚋𝚢 𝙰.𝙻. 𝚆𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚜 4.5⭐️
MF, phenomenal characters, and House of Wax vibes.
𝙼𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚎𝚖 𝙾𝚋𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝙰𝚜𝚑𝚕𝚢𝚗 𝙳𝚛𝚎𝚠𝚎𝚔 5⭐️
MM, friends to lovers, spooky ghost vibes.
𝙿𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚝𝚜 𝙳𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚒𝚗 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔𝚎𝚛 𝚆𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙵𝚊𝚎 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚗 3.5⭐️
MM, rich boy/poor boy, virgin MC, open water.
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚃𝚊𝚜𝚝𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙲𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚋𝚢 𝙷𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚎 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚝 5⭐️
MM, vampire, revenge, and literally ALL the blood play.
𝙻𝚘𝚋𝚘 𝚋𝚢 𝙹. 𝙳𝚢𝚕𝚊𝚗 4⭐️
MF, agoraphobia, werewolf x witch
𝚂𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚆𝚊𝚢 𝙲𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙻.𝙺. 𝚁𝚎𝚒𝚍 5⭐️
MF, strong FMC, touch him or her and ☠️, that cliffhanger!
𝚂𝚝𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚋𝚢 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚎 𝙰𝚗𝚗 5⭐️
MM, extreme haunted house, creepy AF clown, this one definitely had me creeped out because I’m terrified by clowns and I still did not want this story to end!
𝙼𝚊𝚜𝚔 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚒𝚗 𝚋𝚢 𝙼𝚒𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚎𝚕𝚊 𝙲𝚘𝚕𝚎 4.5⭐️
MM, masked men, revenge, and YES to that plot twist!
𝙽𝚘 𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚋𝚢 𝙽𝚢𝚕𝚊 𝙺 4.5⭐️
MM, somniphobia, bi-awakening, surprisingly sweet romance with high heat.
𝚃𝚘𝚔𝚘 𝚋𝚢 𝚁𝚘𝚡𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝙲. 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚕 3.5⭐️
MF, FMC fears getting pregnant, dub con, mild BDSM, and blackmail.
𝙱𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙷𝚒𝚜 𝙰𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚕 𝚋𝚢 𝚂.𝙼. 𝙻𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚘𝚗 3⭐��
MM, age gap, nyctophobia, non con/ dub con.
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚋𝚒𝚛𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚅𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚊 𝚆𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚜 5⭐️
MF, age gap, spooky cemetery, daddy kink, dub con, virgin FMC, group scene.
𝙿𝚑𝚘𝚋𝚒𝚊 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎𝚜 𝟷𝟶.𝟷𝟹 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚢 𝚜𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚃𝙱𝚁!
**This will not be available in Kindle Unlimited and will be on sale for a limited time after release before it will be pulled from all retailers.**
𝚂𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚊𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚒𝚊 𝚋𝚢 𝙰.𝙻. 𝚆𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚜 4.5⭐️
MF, phenomenal characters, and House of Wax vibes.
𝙼𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚎𝚖 𝙾𝚋𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝙰𝚜𝚑𝚕𝚢𝚗 𝙳𝚛𝚎𝚠𝚎𝚔 5⭐️
MM, friends to lovers, spooky ghost vibes.
𝙿𝚘𝚌𝚔𝚎𝚝𝚜 𝙳𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚒𝚗 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚔𝚎𝚛 𝚆𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙵𝚊𝚎 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚗 3.5⭐️
MM, rich boy/poor boy, virgin MC, open water.
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚃𝚊𝚜𝚝𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙲𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚋𝚢 𝙷𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚎 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚝 5⭐️
MM, vampire, revenge, and literally ALL the blood play.
𝙻𝚘𝚋𝚘 𝚋𝚢 𝙹. 𝙳𝚢𝚕𝚊𝚗 4⭐️
MF, agoraphobia, werewolf x witch
𝚂𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚆𝚊𝚢 𝙲𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙻.𝙺. 𝚁𝚎𝚒𝚍 5⭐️
MF, strong FMC, touch him or her and ☠️, that cliffhanger!
𝚂𝚝𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚋𝚢 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚎 𝙰𝚗𝚗 5⭐️
MM, extreme haunted house, creepy AF clown, this one definitely had me creeped out because I’m terrified by clowns and I still did not want this story to end!
𝙼𝚊𝚜𝚔 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚒𝚗 𝚋𝚢 𝙼𝚒𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚎𝚕𝚊 𝙲𝚘𝚕𝚎 4.5⭐️
MM, masked men, revenge, and YES to that plot twist!
𝙽𝚘 𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚎𝚙 𝚋𝚢 𝙽𝚢𝚕𝚊 𝙺 4.5⭐️
MM, somniphobia, bi-awakening, surprisingly sweet romance with high heat.
𝚃𝚘𝚔𝚘 𝚋𝚢 𝚁𝚘𝚡𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝙲. 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚕 3.5⭐️
MF, FMC fears getting pregnant, dub con, mild BDSM, and blackmail.
𝙱𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙷𝚒𝚜 𝙰𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚕 𝚋𝚢 𝚂.𝙼. 𝙻𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚘𝚗 3⭐��
MM, age gap, nyctophobia, non con/ dub con.
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚋𝚒𝚛𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚅𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚊 𝚆𝚘𝚘𝚍𝚜 5⭐️
MF, age gap, spooky cemetery, daddy kink, dub con, virgin FMC, group scene.
𝙿𝚑𝚘𝚋𝚒𝚊 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎𝚜 𝟷𝟶.𝟷𝟹 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚢 𝚜𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚃𝙱𝚁!
**This will not be available in Kindle Unlimited and will be on sale for a limited time after release before it will be pulled from all retailers.**
October 21, 2023
What an amazing anthology packed full of twelve deliciously spine-tingling phobia-inspired novella-length dark romance stories featuring both M/M and M/F. This anthology allowed me to be introduced to a bunch of authors I have not had the opportunity to read yet. I look forward to exploring more of their works!
I had no idea where to begin when I received this massive book. Should I just start at the beginning? Should I pick a story and dig in? Should I choose an author I already know? Ultimately, I jumped around picking stories at random and dove in blind. Instead of reviewing each one, I will pick a couple I enjoyed because they were all fantastic. Each story drew me in and captivated me for one reason or another.
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole (M/M): 4 Stars
What a deliciously spicy, dark, and twisty story. A shocking plot twist.
Something Sinister This Way Comes - L.K. Reid (M/F): 5 Stars
It has an excellent storyline and with a wicked cliffhanger!
Mortem Obire - Ashlyn Drewek (M/M): 5 Stars
Friends-to-lovers with a bi-awakening that keeps you guessing til the very end.
Static - Marie Ann (M/M): 5 Stars
Creepy hotel and a sexy, sadistic clown! It left me wanting more of this dark story!
Songbird - Victoria Woods (M/F): 4.5 Stars
Mysterious with a fantastic twist! Intense chemistry and spice was on point.
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat (M/M): 5 Stars
Vampire and some naughty blood play with some good revenge mixed in there!
Scopaesthesia - A.L. Woods (M/F): 4.5 Stars
Gives House of Wax Vibes with awesome spice!
Thank you to A.L. Woods for gifting me an eARC of Phobia. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I had no idea where to begin when I received this massive book. Should I just start at the beginning? Should I pick a story and dig in? Should I choose an author I already know? Ultimately, I jumped around picking stories at random and dove in blind. Instead of reviewing each one, I will pick a couple I enjoyed because they were all fantastic. Each story drew me in and captivated me for one reason or another.
Mask of Sin - Michaela Cole (M/M): 4 Stars
What a deliciously spicy, dark, and twisty story. A shocking plot twist.
Something Sinister This Way Comes - L.K. Reid (M/F): 5 Stars
It has an excellent storyline and with a wicked cliffhanger!
Mortem Obire - Ashlyn Drewek (M/M): 5 Stars
Friends-to-lovers with a bi-awakening that keeps you guessing til the very end.
Static - Marie Ann (M/M): 5 Stars
Creepy hotel and a sexy, sadistic clown! It left me wanting more of this dark story!
Songbird - Victoria Woods (M/F): 4.5 Stars
Mysterious with a fantastic twist! Intense chemistry and spice was on point.
The Taste of Crimson - Hellie Heat (M/M): 5 Stars
Vampire and some naughty blood play with some good revenge mixed in there!
Scopaesthesia - A.L. Woods (M/F): 4.5 Stars
Gives House of Wax Vibes with awesome spice!
Thank you to A.L. Woods for gifting me an eARC of Phobia. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 27, 2024
Scopaesthesia 0⭐️
By: A.L. Woods
Katrina & Adam
Dnf - boring. Annoyed by use of “tapered eyes”
Mortem Obire 5⭐️
By: Ashlyn Drewek
Jamie & Larkin
Enjoyed the story, kept me interested. Liked the little
twist at the end.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters0⭐️
By: Fae Quin
Henry & Oliver
DNF chapter 2. POV is weird. Can’t always tell who is talking or thinking.
The Taste of Crimson 3⭐️
By: Hellie Heat
Adrien & Silas
Pretty intense beginning. Standard vigilante vampire middle. Bloody douche fountain ending, that was new for me.
Lobo 1⭐️
By: J. Dylan
Silas & Cressida
Terrible story. Typos. 0-60 in a clunky fashion
Something Sinister This Way Comes 1⭐️
By: L.K. Reid
Lazarus & Danika
Hated it. Stupid surprise baby. Stupid limbo ending.
Static 2⭐️
By: Mari Ann
Static & Madison
What the fuck did I just read?
Mask of Sin 3⭐️
By: Michaela Cole
Graysin & Kellen/Zane
Nice twist. (Spoiler)I thought demon might be Kellen!
No Sleep 3⭐️
By: Nyla K
Jules & Asa
It’s was interesting. Many typos. Bonus points for “flamingies”
Toko 2 ⭐️
By: Roxanna C. Revell
Naomi & Dom
Well I’ve found the only thing I hate more than surprise pregnancy, forced pregnancy. But I did like Naomi’s tenacity.
Becoming His Angel 4⭐️
By: S.M. Landon
Anthony & Delorean
This one was good! There were some typos though.
Songbird 2⭐️
By: Victoria Wood
Rosalie & Bastien
What was the phobia? Terms that weren’t in use in 1725 were used pulling me from the story. Breaking the 4th wall with Bastiens POV was jarring. The ending was unsatisfying.
By: A.L. Woods
Katrina & Adam
Dnf - boring. Annoyed by use of “tapered eyes”
Mortem Obire 5⭐️
By: Ashlyn Drewek
Jamie & Larkin
Enjoyed the story, kept me interested. Liked the little
twist at the end.
Pockets Deep in Darker Waters0⭐️
By: Fae Quin
Henry & Oliver
DNF chapter 2. POV is weird. Can’t always tell who is talking or thinking.
The Taste of Crimson 3⭐️
By: Hellie Heat
Adrien & Silas
Pretty intense beginning. Standard vigilante vampire middle. Bloody douche fountain ending, that was new for me.
Lobo 1⭐️
By: J. Dylan
Silas & Cressida
Terrible story. Typos. 0-60 in a clunky fashion
Something Sinister This Way Comes 1⭐️
By: L.K. Reid
Lazarus & Danika
Hated it. Stupid surprise baby. Stupid limbo ending.
Static 2⭐️
By: Mari Ann
Static & Madison
What the fuck did I just read?
Mask of Sin 3⭐️
By: Michaela Cole
Graysin & Kellen/Zane
Nice twist. (Spoiler)I thought demon might be Kellen!
No Sleep 3⭐️
By: Nyla K
Jules & Asa
It’s was interesting. Many typos. Bonus points for “flamingies”
Toko 2 ⭐️
By: Roxanna C. Revell
Naomi & Dom
Well I’ve found the only thing I hate more than surprise pregnancy, forced pregnancy. But I did like Naomi’s tenacity.
Becoming His Angel 4⭐️
By: S.M. Landon
Anthony & Delorean
This one was good! There were some typos though.
Songbird 2⭐️
By: Victoria Wood
Rosalie & Bastien
What was the phobia? Terms that weren’t in use in 1725 were used pulling me from the story. Breaking the 4th wall with Bastiens POV was jarring. The ending was unsatisfying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews