V. Brown is an avid reader whose wild imagination could not be contained. She soon fell in love with writing, creating worlds where anything is possible.
Emergency nurse by day and writer of all things dark and steamy by night, you can usually find V sitting on her back porch with a cup of tea and a good book, surrounded by Australian wildlife. Her husband, daughters and pet chicken named Shadow are always close by.
My review may contain minor spoilers. I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
Wow, considering this is a debut novel, I am honestly left gobsmacked. V. Brown has done a wonderful job on writing this, I would honestly think that this wasn't their debut.
I will admit that at first I was very confused and found it hard to tag along to the story line, hence the .5 taken from the 5 star rating, if I didn't find it confusing I would rate it a solid 5. However, unfortunately (could just be me though) I did find it hard to understand, AT FIRST. But once I got to know more about each character and find out more within the story the pieces started coming together, and boy was it good.
This is a very morally grey storyline and the book does have some triggers and I definitely would read those first before diving straight into the book. Unless, you like that stuff then go in blind. (I did, it was great!)
Anyway, back to my review. This was really, really good. I honestly loved it. I wanted a little bit more though, as I had some questions left unanswered but I'll wait until the second book. I really can't wait to see what Spencer's story is going to be like.
I loved the FMC, she was so strong and independent. I also loved that the storyline progressed very quickly and it wasn't some slow burner that left me wanting more. It was perfect for me. Perfectly executed and did not need that slow burn to understand that sometimes, it just happens. Some relationships push the boundaries and people fall deeply quickly. I loved that!
I'm looking forward to reading more from V. Brown and I'm hanging for book two now!
This was an incredible interesting read. I had some difficulty keeping up with the timeline and everything revolving the supernatural aspect the first half of the book, but the more I read, the more I understood. And I truly enjoyed it, especially the last half of the book. The FMC is a badass, and we love that. I really liked the side-characters and their personalities. And Psycho, well I do love an unhinged man who also has a softer side. It was an instant connection between the MCs and the tension was great.
I think this is a great debut for the author, and it will be interesting to see how the next book plays out.
I recommend this if you love dark romance with a twist, but check your triggers!
“August and I were marked by the greatest sin, death’s willing companions, overrun with darkness and immorality. His words washed over me with purpose, holding no remorse or regret. We were truly aligned.”
First off - debut book, say what?! So amazed.
Second - unhinged MMC? yes, please unhinged FMC? HELL YES - TAKE ALL MY MONEY!!
It’s was giving me a little bit of the Joker + Harley Quinn vibes and I. WAS. HERE. FOR. IT.
Secret societies, paranormal aspect, killers, revenge, psychiatric hospital, sisterly bonds, sass….like so many amazing aspects all rolled into one.
I will say it takes a little bit to understand everything…between the several characters in the beginning and the paranormal aspects/layers of the setting but once it all clicked I couldn’t put it down. Hence why I am writing this review at 1:45 AM.
“You brought me to my knees, Micah. A place I never considered I’d want to stay.”
Oh my goodness, what an amazing ride this book took me on!!! I love the concept of Psycho being in a psychiatric facility & Micah having to undertake an alias to get to him. There story is definitely not for the faint of heart & you may need to have defibrillator present.
I love how there was a huge focus for both the main characters that their family is their priority & absolutely everything they do is for them. They are both out for revenge against those who put them in their own living hells. There is layer upon layer of secrets that are revealed & just when you think you know where things are going you are thrown a curveball.
I loved this from Micah - 'My family would be unhappy if I committed homicide on my first day.'
The side characters that were in this book add an extra layer to it, in particular Ace & the Flower Guy.
This book did end with questions still unanswered that I'm sure will be in future books. Each book looks like it is going to focus on a different sibling.
This book was full of suspense, twists, turns, spice, action, and even humor. I throughly enjoyed this story from V Brown and was caught up in it from the start. Psycho was dark and broody and while Micah was no angel herself, she definitely softened him around the edges. Reading about the secondary characters and having them so involved makes me so very excited for the next book in the series. This one definitely left me in a slump afterwards!
“It’s too late for your warning, Micah. Your soul is mine to bare, and I will tear it back from the borders of hell if that’s what I have to do. I more than care for you, baby. I fucking love you.”
Favorite Quote: “Micah King,” I said, with pent-up awe. “Who are you?” She leaned forward, raising her injured hand to my jaw. “A sister, a daughter, a criminal … and yours.”
This is such a unique and original book! I fell in love literally at sentence one 😍 I simply couldn’t put it down, and even when I wanted to, it just kept getting better. I’m absolutely obsessed with Psycho and Micah’s story. There is a connection between them like none other. Such strong and prominent characters that you literally connect to from jump! I’m so ready for book two.
Unleashed Potential: A Gripping Escape in "August & Micah" (Five Out of Five Stars) Trigger Warnings: Violence, mental health themes (mentions of past abuse and medication), institutionalization
A Spark of Rebellion Ignited
"August & Micah" is a thrilling story that takes us on a journey through the dark underbelly of Oakview Asylum. We meet August (Ace) Crayton, a young man with a hardened exterior but a glimmer of defiance within. The harsh realities of the asylum system and the ghosts of past traumas have shaped him into a survivor.
A World Transformed
The narrative follows Ace in the aftermath of a rebellion that shook the asylum to its core. The new administration's attempts to reform the institution feel hollow, leaving Ace with a sense of indifference. However, a cryptic message and a chance encounter set him on a path towards a daring escape.
Unveiling the Mystery
The epilogue throws the story wide open, leaving us with more questions than answers. We see a transformed Dr. Chaser, enigmatic messages, and a cryptic tattoo on Psycho that hints at a larger plan. The reunion between Ace, Dr. Chaser, and Psycho is a highlight, leaving the reader eager to see how their dynamic unfolds.
A Must-Read for Fans of Gritty Adventures
"August & Micah" is a captivating read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat, and the well-developed characters leave a lasting impression. If you enjoy dark and suspenseful stories with a dash of hope, this book is a definite five-star recommendation.
A Note on Triggers:
This book deals with violence and mature themes. Readers who are sensitive to these topics may want to proceed with caution. However, the author handles these elements with sensitivity and without unnecessary graphic detail.
V brown was a new to me author, but now I'm obsessed with her books! I still can't believe this was her debut!
Micah is a woman after my own heart! She's feisty, sassy, and just badass psychotic. Her loyalty to her sisters and those she considers family is admirable.
She enters an adylum to get closer to the man she needs to continue her revenge. (Doctor/patient trope 🥵) She needed someone equally strong and psychotic to match her energy, and she found that in Psycho. He's dark, brooding, and the unhinged killer who only softens for 'his golden girl'.
I loved the focus on family for both MC – their family is their priority, and everything they do is for them. They're both out for revenge and equal to each other There are layers upon layers of secrets being revealed, and just when you think you know where things are heading, V. Brown throws in another twist.
I'll admit, it took a bit to understand everything at first – with several characters and the layers of the paranormal setting – but once it clicked, IT CLICKED. Paired with badass characters, the spice, and their devotion towards each other, you're in for a wild ride.
Guess today is the day I read all the messed up books 🤷♀️ This book is messed up in all the best ways! I should not have found Pyscho attractive nor like Micah! But here I am, loving them both and only wanting to see them succeed! This book is definitely not for the faint of heart. But if pyschos, supernatural elements, unlikeable likeable characters, and a whole lot of spice are your thing, please pick this one up!
"You'll know when to stop when I've broken these chains and choked you out with them."
"In all honesty, I'm a terrible human being. And I don't care. Every terrible deed I have ever done has been in service to my family, and I'd do it again a million times over."
Honestly, Micah is a woman after my own heart! She is fiesty and sassy and psychotic! And she's so loyal to her sisters and those she considers family. Her tendency for murder is my favorite part about her! She needed someone strong and equally as psychotic to deal with her crazy ass. God, she's amazing!
"No one would have the visual of my golden girl transforming into the breathtaking Predator that now stood at my back."
I love the way Pyscho appreciates all aspects of Micah. He loves her softness to him, yet also loves the fight she gives. He is not afraid of her, nor does he judge her. They are just two pyschos loving each other and accepting each others flaws.
The only thing that kept me from fully enjoying the craziness was the timelines and change in names. Though it did work itself out halfway through. It was hard to keep track of what was going on both with the characters and inside the asylum. I still greatly enjoyed this book and love how messed up it is!
“It’s too late for your warning, Micah. Your soul is mine to bare, and I will tear it back from the borders of hell if that’s what I have to do. I more than care for you, baby. I fucking love you.”
The mystery, suspense, chemistry, psychiatrist x psycho, gothic harley x joker inspired, unhinged MCs AND with supernatural powers? I was eating it all up. I really love the pacing of the book, I was definitely confused at first because I didn't know this has a fantasy/paranormal elements—namely their powers, but then it gradually explains them so that's clear.
spoilers ahead: I AM ACTUALLY FOAMING IN THE MOUTH TO READ SPENCER'S STORY. She's one of my favorites, her entire vibe is immaculate. I have no idea who's gonna be the love interest but.... that stoic high ranking Treasury member who disappears like shadow seems, hot. His Variant is quite interesting, the complete opposite of our unhinged Spencer 🤭 I also think Treasury are enemies of the Sovereign, PERFECT.
Possible future stories and characters I want to know about: Lily/Chai!! Ava, Gannicus, Tanner?! His “I make you human.” power??? That chemical weapon guy with his missing wife. What was that about? CHASE! She could still be alive I can feel it. Ace with the night-vision 👀 I am intrigued. Also, that man and woman sourcing the Amps talking with Maximus....? Are they the ultimate villains of the story? Hmmm... Too many possibilities.
Read if you love: 🖤 Possessive MMC 🖤 Morally Grey Badass FMC 🖤 Psychiatrist/Patient 🖤 Electrifying Spice (iykyk) 🖤 Dark Romance with a splash of urban fantasy
From the moment I read the blurb I knew I was going to love this book. It was short and dark and I really wish it was longer. Psycho our MMC is Possessive with a capital P, depraved, and under it all he does what he does for the right reasons although morally its all quite grey. Micah is such a badass FMC and at her heart is doing everything to avenge her family. The banter and chemistry is fiery right from the start and although instalust normally doesn't work for me they really began to trust and get each other in so many little moments that I fell too. The plot felt fast moving and there was never a real lull in the action which made for a fun and quick read. The addition of the Variants (essentially Superpowers) unique to each character added a whole other layer to the interesting worldbuilding. The final action scene cemented my love for these two. I don't want to spoil anything so this was a fantastic dark and spicy read and I'm already ready for the next book and figuring out more of the "mystery".
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Enemies to Lovers Secret Identities Underground Societies Dual POV Supernatural Powers Touch Her and Die
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I was stunned, completely taken over by the irrational thought to move closer and seek comfort in the tattooed arms of my own destruction.
I really enjoyed this book. Like really enjoyed it. It was so engaging that I had trouble putting it down. It was different than I expected, but in such a good way. I think I forgot from when I signed up for this ARC that there was supposed to be a supernatural power aspect to this book, but I loved all of it. Micah and Psycho are a great pair. Both are morally grey and a little crazy, but isn't that how we love our dark romance MCs? They both push boundaries and warp stereotypes. They make you question your own sanity a little bit. They really are a perfect combination. The spice was on point. Definitely some trigger warnings in there so check those, but it was delicious, intense and electrifying 😉 (IYKYK). I love the secret identities and hiding in plain sight. A little bit of mafia vibes, definitely underground society/crime. This book had a little bit of everything that I love, and it kept me intrigued to the very end.
I'm blown away that this is a debut novel. The writing is so beautiful and well-thought out. I immediately looked up the author to find other books and was shocked to find there aren't any. (Yet! 😉) I am certain we will be seeing more from V Brown in the future. I'm already anxious for the next book to come out. V Brown, you definitely have a new fan. 🥰
“I am Micah King. Put some respect on my motherfucking name.”
I thoroughly enjoyed this story once I got into it. I did struggle to start with, but it was not because of the writing or anything, it was purely because I was a little confused. It did not take long to put it all together and I am definitely glad I persisted.
I’m not sure which character I loved more. Micah – independent, strong, a leader. Psycho – strong, ruthless, protective. Both devoted to their individual families and would burn the world and everything in it down to protect them.
And let’s not even start on the side characters – her sisters and her brother, mainly. I’m hanging to see what happens with Spencer’s story.
Does this have violence? Yes, it does.
Does this have spice? Yes, that too.
Does it have unhinged characters? Bloody oath it does.
Bring on the second book in the Temple Of Kings series. I’m here for it all.
There’s plenty of trigger warnings, so please check them before you proceed. Or completely ignore them like I did.
4 ⭐
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I read the blurb of this I was instantly intrigued. I mean not just an unhinged MMC but we get an unhinged FMC too? Yes please! I absolutely loved Psycho + Micah. It was dark, suspenseful, intense, steamy and all consuming.
Tropes: dark romance, psychiatrist x patient, enemies to lovers, touch her and 💀 vibes, supernatural vibes, revenge, badass fmc, possessive mmc.
It took me a little to get into and find my bearings with the quick introductions of several characters, the setting and the paranormal layer. But once I did, I could not put this down.
The connection between Micah and Psycho was in a whole other level, it was deep and intense, filled with so much passion. He is unhinged, completely obsessed with her and willing to do anything to keep her safe. Meanwhile she’s a total badass which I loved. And when they came together they were explosive.
I adored the sisters and Tanner, their dynamic and banter added a layer of humour and lightness to an otherwise heavy and dark subject matter. I’m really looking forward to their stories!
This is book one of the Temple of the Kinds series. Tropes: Dual POV, secret identity, enemies to lovers, mystery, touch her/him and unalive vibes, revenge, sp!cy, dystopian world, supernatural abilities, everyone is morall gray. Please check TWs. The spice was 4/5 for me.
Micah (FMC) keeps to the shadows of Juction City, seeking revenge for her family, until she is drawn out by Psycho (MMC), the man who could hold the key to all the secrets she needs to exact her final revenge. The tricky part is that Psycho is currently residing at Oakview Asylum, a psychiatric facility that houses its own dark secrets. What neither of them anticipates is finding a light in each other that overshows their blackened souls.
If you love a bad a$$ FMC, you've found her. There isn't a weak bone in Micah's body. She matches Psychos energy so well. This tattoed, crazy k!ller of a man is the whole dark package. I can't elaborate more on what adds to their exceptionally hot situation without giving spoilers.
Godless Creatures tells the story of a group of assassins looking for revenge for their fallen sister and family legacy. Micah goes undercover to speak to the one person who can give her answers - Psycho. The only problem is, he’s locked up in a prison. She pretends to be a psychiatrist so that she can speak to him.
What follows is a dark, dangerous and spicy tale of lust, undeniable chemistry and a soul bonding love that will see them do the impossible for each other. Don’t get me wrong, this is not for the weak of heart. There are scenes in this book that delighted the darkest depths of my depraved soul.
I whispered my devotion through my actions. “My life.” Lick. “My death.” Bite. “Everything in between.” Suck. “It all belongs to you.”
This book is raw, sexy, fast paced, depraved… really everything I’m looking for in a book.
Micah is a goddess and I absolutely love her as a new standard for mafia princess (not exactly a mafia book, but if you read it you’ll get what I mean). Psycho is her perfect match in every way and I love their story.
I am shocked this is a debut novel - I think she knocked it out of the park. I will admit I was confused by the concept of the variant and a few other plot points, but don’t let it discourage you as everything is revealed in due time. Overall the work was a gothic, poetic, bloody masterpiece.
Would it be blasphemy to call this a play on Charlie’s Angels? I don’t mean it in a bad what but the banter between the sisters reminds me of that for some reason. I actually loved it.
I received a complimentary ARC; thoughts are my own.
💀ARC REVIEW💀 I have been WAITING for this ARC to come out. And man it did not disappoint. Micah & Psycho will always have my heart. Their fascination for each other started immediately. They hated it, yet staked claim to each other. Psycho’s “don’t touch what’s mine” was out of this world 🥵. Micah is an absolute goddess. As much as I love a man in control, Micah brings Psycho to his knees and has no issue dishing out death. Our queen of revenge. The spice 👀🫠, the spice while using the Electroconvulsive Therapy Machine 🥵🤪👀😮💨. Your own thighs will be clenching. I absolutely adore our wild & aggressive side characters. I can’t wait for book 2! However I NEED Ava & G.
Only thing I struggled with was the writing style, but mama ain’t raise no b*tch and that would never stop me from reading a book or deduct a star. I was slightly confused on what a Variant was, but everything clicked as I continued reading. Yes, it has some fantasy elements sprinkled in there 💅🏼
Very interesting read and concept, with a unique supernatural aspect.
The MFC is a strong bad@ss, who takes no $h*t, and the MMC is a morally grey, unhinged bad@ss. They complimented each other nicely. Loved the banter throughout the book, and the side characters that brought their own personality touches and wits in.
A few spots in the beginning, I had a hard time keeping up with the timeline and understanding the supernatural powers, but it all came together later in the book.
I enjoyed reading about Micah and Psycho. The spicy between them 2 was a nice bonus. Be sure to check the trigger warnings. Great dark romance book!
I think this is a wonderful debut novel, and can’t wait for any future books V may write.
I received this book as a complimentary ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I could not put this down, I literally read it in 5 or 6 hours. The variant aspect in this book was a little confusing, like it wasn’t ever fully explained. The FMC, Micah, is a badass, which I love. I also loved Pshyco, the unhinged, depraved, morally grey MMC. I loved the chemistry between the two characters. I also loved the ending and I can’t wait to see how he fits into the story in book 2. It wasn’t left on a cliffhanger but they haven’t accomplished what they set out to do yet so I’m excited to see how everything unfolds in book 2.
Within her, I found all the answers. Everything I’d never asked or searched for… yet, everything I’d ever want or need. My survival. My lifeline. My home.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest review. This book was a roller coaster and I was there for it every step of the way. V. Brown’s Godless Creatures is a Dual POV Dark Romance with some fantasy elements set in a PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL! The story follows Psycho and Micah and their chemistry is off the charts 📈 ❤️🔥 Full of criminal activity, secret identities and revenge I could not get enough !! We are also introduced to a variety of characters including the “Terror Squad of Oakview... Security Fern the brute, Nurse Katsy the sexual deviant, Manager Burner the thief. And everyone’s least favourite, Dr Mudlark, the mad scientist.” and Micah’s sisters (talk about the ultimate girl bossing criminals!). I thoroughly enjoyed this read, it is a well written and intriguing story that I could not put down.
This was a twisted story of revenge and redemption. Psycho, wrongly imprisoned, grapples with the new prison psychiatrist who is threatening to expose his secrets while battling his own desires for her. Micah, seeking answers and revenge, finds herself entangled with a ruthless killer. Brown weaves a narrative, building suspense with each twist and turn. The exploration of sanity, betrayal, and the blurred lines between justice and vengeance is both chilling and thought-provoking. A must-read for fans of dark psychological thrillers with unforgettable characters. It took me a little bit to understand the timeline but I still found it to be a very enjoyable read and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book and to read more from V. Brown.
Think Den of Vipers meets Harley Quinn & Joker (in the assylum) and mix in a bit of Nurse Rachett - and boom, Godless Creatures.
Ok so not as spicy as DoV, but the vibe is there. A badass group of powerful siblings on a mission to reclaim their family position in the underworld, a psycho literally named 'Psycho', a psych prision, some experimentation, a fake psychiatrist, and a spicy burn with lots of dark elements.
Please check trigger warnings, because there are a few. But, if you are like me you'll dive right in and love it :)
Tropes: Family above all Found family Revenge Crime Family Paranormal Dark Romance (not even sure thats right - its not valentines type romance anyway!) Multi POV Inmate / Dr Hidden Identity Violence *Dark spice*
I really liked reading this story. I was lucky enough to get this bad boy as an advanced copy, and I'm low-key sad it took me so long yo read it.
I did have a little trouble following/understanding the Paranormal aspect of the story in the beginning, but the more you read, the clearer it all becomes.
Although it does not end on a cliffhanger, it definitely ends like a first book; leaving you with a complete story but several loose ends.
The side characters are just as enjoyable as the mains and I would love to read more of this world now that the building is done. How do you choose a variant? How does one end up in the Gladiator Games. Will the girls get back their leadership? Does Tanner move on? What about Ace?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A dark romance that features Psycho (A Psychiatric inmate) and Micah (The Doctor). This book gives off Harley Quinn and the Joker Vibes and Im here for it.
The plot line is heavy theres a few trigger warnings so please make sure to read them first. The story line is a little hard to follow at first, but as you read it starts to make more sense and i couldn't put the book down, I read this in one sitting, No Regrets! It's an easy read, its smutty as hell, with a faced pace romance and touch her and die vibes.
I cant believe this is the author's first book, its a wonderful dark read id recommend! Hanging out for Book 2 🖤
"Psycho only gets on his knees for one person...and that ain't you."
Godless Creatures was my first Asylum story I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It also has a bit of twist that comes with some paranormal (gifts) that the characters can wield. I love the characters in this book. Especially the FMC and her family being bad ass b!tches. Spencer is such a character! I freaking love her personality and give no f**ks attitude. I can't wait to read about her story. This was such a great read. So different and intriguing.
“You’re supposed to run, otherwise it’s no fun.” Surprisingly, she didn’t flinch in alarm. Instead, she leant closer, wisps of her fragrant hair skating over my face. “Maybe I wanted to be caught.”
I love Micha and her strength. I love how she can hold her own and fight for what she wants. I love the setting of the book, and I love Psychos dark obsession with Micha. I love how toxic their world is but find comfort in each other and they know they are both as messed up as each other. Love love love this read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶🌶 to 🌶🌶🌶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve written and deleted this review. I honestly just couldn’t find the words. I’m still not sure I can 😂
I asked for dark romance, and ya’ll, this book DELIVERED!!
We all love a morally grey MMC, but add in a FMC who’s just as unhinged and knows how to take charge of her man and you’ve got me hooked.
When I tell you I was utterly confused about variants and what they were or did, I really mean it, it took me a while to to finally understand, but once I did, it all clicked and made everything so much more interesting.
If you love Touch her and ☠️ Enemies to lovers Psychiatrist x patient Secret identity Mystery & revenge Supernatural powers
You’ll definitely read this book and be hanging out for book 2!!
I’ve been anticipating this book for a long time. V absolutely delivered.
The creativity was truly wonderful and I loved meeting these characters. Psycho is a bad boy with a soft side and I’m an absolute sucker for it. I absolutely loved Micah too. She knew what she wanted and she took it. A perfectly depicted strong FMC.
I was obsessed with August!!! He really was doing the best he could under the circumstances! He was unhinged when it came to protecting those he cares about! Bring on the Psycho!!!
I really enjoyed the fantasy element of this story! It made for some great action in this story! I loved reading about the different personalities Micah and her sisters had! This story definitely had me laughing! I can’t wait to read more! There is definitely more to uncover!