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Should Have Killed Me
Sunny's life as a lounge singer has been exciting. But lately, run ins with a blue-eyed stranger have her on edge.
He’s been following her, and in his delusions, she is already his. Sunny is charmed by him and sees a side to life that she can only dream of.
But as he starts to unweave his monstrous side, it becomes very clear that he will do anything to keep his family’s secrets hidden, even if that means killing Sunny.
She should have died that night. After a long coma and jagged memories of her own near death, Sunny must grapple with what the doctors tell her: It’s all in her head
She’s safe - they tell her.
But then why does her heart stop beating at the sight of his blue eyes?
She knows what he’s done...
She won’t go down without a fight.
“ With a crackling voice, the melody is off, but I sing anyway, a deathly gurgle present between each word of my made-up song. I move in the direction of the nearby cabin, focusing on my ragged breath as it clouds out into the tight, freezing air.”
He’s been following her, and in his delusions, she is already his. Sunny is charmed by him and sees a side to life that she can only dream of.
But as he starts to unweave his monstrous side, it becomes very clear that he will do anything to keep his family’s secrets hidden, even if that means killing Sunny.
She should have died that night. After a long coma and jagged memories of her own near death, Sunny must grapple with what the doctors tell her: It’s all in her head
She’s safe - they tell her.
But then why does her heart stop beating at the sight of his blue eyes?
She knows what he’s done...
She won’t go down without a fight.
“ With a crackling voice, the melody is off, but I sing anyway, a deathly gurgle present between each word of my made-up song. I move in the direction of the nearby cabin, focusing on my ragged breath as it clouds out into the tight, freezing air.”
- GenresThriller
235 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2023
4 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 27, 2023
Y’all, I devoured this book! For a debut, 𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙆𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙚 by Casey Kuchler is a pretty solid domestic thriller!
𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙆𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙚 starts off with a bang! - err insert sound an axe makes here. You won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough! I had to figure out this mystery!
I enjoyed the dual POV: Sunny and Bryce. When done right this is one of my favorite ways to write a thriller, and let me tell you, this was done RIGHT. I was rooting for Sunny the whole way! And despised Bryce (and his Father). I felt like the grinch, “Hate, hate, hate. Double hate. LOATHE entirely!” I couldn’t wait for Sunny to seek her revenge!
If you enjoy a domestic thriller, this one is pretty dark - be sure to check the trigger warnings - I highly recommend 𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙆𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙚.
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and @caseykwriter for the gifted copy.
𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙆𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙚 starts off with a bang! - err insert sound an axe makes here. You won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough! I had to figure out this mystery!
I enjoyed the dual POV: Sunny and Bryce. When done right this is one of my favorite ways to write a thriller, and let me tell you, this was done RIGHT. I was rooting for Sunny the whole way! And despised Bryce (and his Father). I felt like the grinch, “Hate, hate, hate. Double hate. LOATHE entirely!” I couldn’t wait for Sunny to seek her revenge!
If you enjoy a domestic thriller, this one is pretty dark - be sure to check the trigger warnings - I highly recommend 𝙎𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙆𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙚.
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and @caseykwriter for the gifted copy.
November 25, 2023
Thank you author Casey Kuchler and sunnybabePR for the early release copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This was such a great solid debut novel! I absolutely blew through this fast paced thriller.
This book follows sunny who works as a lounge singer when this seemingly great guy sweeps her off her feet but as we learn from the first chapter of this book, Bryce isn’t a good guy. If you need a quick fast paced suspense, I’d recommend this one! Just be sure to check the TW!
This was such a great solid debut novel! I absolutely blew through this fast paced thriller.
This book follows sunny who works as a lounge singer when this seemingly great guy sweeps her off her feet but as we learn from the first chapter of this book, Bryce isn’t a good guy. If you need a quick fast paced suspense, I’d recommend this one! Just be sure to check the TW!
January 15, 2024
Should Have Killed Me by Casey Kuchler
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Why did I put this book off for so long!?
Casey sent me this a while back to read and then suddenly I was moving and couldn't find time. So finally I did and I'm so glad I got a chance to discover this blooming author and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Psst, I want to read them all!
Kuchler's debut novel was a hit for me. It kept me wanting more. And panicking for Sunny in her escape from her sadistic husband... (Casey, I'm so glad your husband isn't a lunatic- as per your dedication in the book 🤣) I'm here to see how her writing style strengthens and grows as she continues to write more books.
I love the dual POV. I went from a feeling of uneasiness to a feeling of dread or hopefulness depending on the chapter. And I even cried in the beginning! That's rare for me when it comes to reading. Thanks, Casey for giving us a book that made me feel so consumed and emotional throughout the entirety of the story.
If you are looking for a page Turner that will leave you needing more, then consider giving 'Should Have Killed Me' a try. I promise it will grab you right from the start!
#qotd 💬 What's a debut book from an Author you recommend?
#Caseykuchler #shouldhavekilledme #debut #debutauthor #bookreader #bookreviewers #bookreview #booksandblogs #blogofbooks #review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Why did I put this book off for so long!?
Casey sent me this a while back to read and then suddenly I was moving and couldn't find time. So finally I did and I'm so glad I got a chance to discover this blooming author and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next. Psst, I want to read them all!
Kuchler's debut novel was a hit for me. It kept me wanting more. And panicking for Sunny in her escape from her sadistic husband... (Casey, I'm so glad your husband isn't a lunatic- as per your dedication in the book 🤣) I'm here to see how her writing style strengthens and grows as she continues to write more books.
I love the dual POV. I went from a feeling of uneasiness to a feeling of dread or hopefulness depending on the chapter. And I even cried in the beginning! That's rare for me when it comes to reading. Thanks, Casey for giving us a book that made me feel so consumed and emotional throughout the entirety of the story.
If you are looking for a page Turner that will leave you needing more, then consider giving 'Should Have Killed Me' a try. I promise it will grab you right from the start!
#qotd 💬 What's a debut book from an Author you recommend?
#Caseykuchler #shouldhavekilledme #debut #debutauthor #bookreader #bookreviewers #bookreview #booksandblogs #blogofbooks #review
December 31, 2023
Must read for Thriller lovers
Hot damn! This was so good!! Oh my goodness! Every chapter had me wanting more, I couldn't stop reading!
Damn, Sunny ignored so many red flags my god, I was constantly questioning her choices, I'm thankful she came to her senses, I guess almost dying does that to a person. 😬
Bryce, Jesus Christ, you are beyond saving you crazy lunatic! His POV's had me uneasily, laughing, because of just how deranged he was.
Casey did a fantastic job of writing this, I'm also not sure how to think about how she was able to come up with this story😅 I feel like it was written a little too well! A very creative mind indeed!
But honestly, this had me questioning out loud, had me talking to Sunny like she could hear me, she had my stressing, her choices towards the end, I was stressed!
This is like a true crime doc come to life within pages!
I would read more by Casey!
Also, Casey, that last chapter!? What a plot twist! Did not see that happening, I literally was in shock just reading, mouth open, trying to take in what I read, damn, you did good!
Hot damn! This was so good!! Oh my goodness! Every chapter had me wanting more, I couldn't stop reading!
Damn, Sunny ignored so many red flags my god, I was constantly questioning her choices, I'm thankful she came to her senses, I guess almost dying does that to a person. 😬
Bryce, Jesus Christ, you are beyond saving you crazy lunatic! His POV's had me uneasily, laughing, because of just how deranged he was.
Casey did a fantastic job of writing this, I'm also not sure how to think about how she was able to come up with this story😅 I feel like it was written a little too well! A very creative mind indeed!
But honestly, this had me questioning out loud, had me talking to Sunny like she could hear me, she had my stressing, her choices towards the end, I was stressed!
This is like a true crime doc come to life within pages!
I would read more by Casey!
Also, Casey, that last chapter!? What a plot twist! Did not see that happening, I literally was in shock just reading, mouth open, trying to take in what I read, damn, you did good!
December 8, 2023
★★★★☆
thank you Sunny Babes PR for the ARC!!
this was truly a unique thriller where i despised Bryce with every fibre of my being but i was HOOKED!! i was routing for Sunny and needed to know the couples backstory!! reading about how disturbing Bryce’s thought process is and how he manipulated Sunny engaged me immediately and resulted in becoming obsessed with the outcome of their story. i adored the dual POV and dual timeline, this domestic thriller gave me exactly what i was looking for when searching for a creepy, twisted and grief-ridden thriller!! i couldn’t recommend more!
thank you Sunny Babes PR for the ARC!!
this was truly a unique thriller where i despised Bryce with every fibre of my being but i was HOOKED!! i was routing for Sunny and needed to know the couples backstory!! reading about how disturbing Bryce’s thought process is and how he manipulated Sunny engaged me immediately and resulted in becoming obsessed with the outcome of their story. i adored the dual POV and dual timeline, this domestic thriller gave me exactly what i was looking for when searching for a creepy, twisted and grief-ridden thriller!! i couldn’t recommend more!
November 23, 2023
WOW!!
What a book! Wish I could give ten stars! I couldn't stop reading and didn't want to see the book end. One of the best books I have read this year. The main character has put up with so much abuse from her husband, the devil! You will cheer her on and hate him. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
What a book! Wish I could give ten stars! I couldn't stop reading and didn't want to see the book end. One of the best books I have read this year. The main character has put up with so much abuse from her husband, the devil! You will cheer her on and hate him. Looking forward to reading more by this author.
November 24, 2023
PLOT TWISTS ON PLOT TWISTS ON PLOT TWISTS!
I devoured this book. I could NOT put it down. Can we talk about the very first paragraph?
"I thought dying would hurt more. Not that it’s something one thinks about until it happens. Lucky for me, if luck is involved at all, the axe in my skull is in just the right position, numbing certain parts of my body. Or maybe the shock of the whole ordeal conceals my pain, I can’t be sure"
I was hooked!!
I like to think I'm well versed in the thriller genre, but I was still absolutely blindsided by many of the plot twists.
This is a 4.5 star read for me. I was upset by some of the main character's decisions in the latter half of the book. Decisions that could have led to extremely dangerous consequences.
This is an incredible thriller debut. I cannot wait to read more of her writing.
Please check trigger warnings.
Thank you @Sunnybabepr for sending me this ARC to rate and review.
I devoured this book. I could NOT put it down. Can we talk about the very first paragraph?
"I thought dying would hurt more. Not that it’s something one thinks about until it happens. Lucky for me, if luck is involved at all, the axe in my skull is in just the right position, numbing certain parts of my body. Or maybe the shock of the whole ordeal conceals my pain, I can’t be sure"
I was hooked!!
I like to think I'm well versed in the thriller genre, but I was still absolutely blindsided by many of the plot twists.
This is a 4.5 star read for me. I was upset by some of the main character's decisions in the latter half of the book. Decisions that could have led to extremely dangerous consequences.
This is an incredible thriller debut. I cannot wait to read more of her writing.
Please check trigger warnings.
Thank you @Sunnybabepr for sending me this ARC to rate and review.
December 7, 2023
Big thank you to Sunny Babe PR and the author Casey Kuchler for this arc!!
The way this took me on a rollercoaster?? I think this is a great debut. It kept me on my toes basically all throughout the book, and it made me feel very uneasy -even the first chapter gets your attention like no other book I've read. We follow Sunny as she realises that the man she married, Bryce, was not as amazing as she had first thought. It's told in dual pov, so we can see inside of both Sunny and Bryce's brain. Should Have Killed Me is a very fast-paced domestic thriller that I devoured in like two days. All through it, we see glimpses of a strong female lead and a man who's really, really bonkers. The things this man would do to remain in control...
I got a bit frustrated at some of the (dangerous) decisions Sunny would make, but I think I can understand where they would come from. Still, definitely check trigger warnings before reading; but I 100% recommend giving it a chance.
The way this took me on a rollercoaster?? I think this is a great debut. It kept me on my toes basically all throughout the book, and it made me feel very uneasy -even the first chapter gets your attention like no other book I've read. We follow Sunny as she realises that the man she married, Bryce, was not as amazing as she had first thought. It's told in dual pov, so we can see inside of both Sunny and Bryce's brain. Should Have Killed Me is a very fast-paced domestic thriller that I devoured in like two days. All through it, we see glimpses of a strong female lead and a man who's really, really bonkers. The things this man would do to remain in control...
I got a bit frustrated at some of the (dangerous) decisions Sunny would make, but I think I can understand where they would come from. Still, definitely check trigger warnings before reading; but I 100% recommend giving it a chance.
December 8, 2023
5 ⭐ STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING AND READ THIS!!! NOWWWW
This is a debut novel? I mean WHAT!?
I started at page 1 and the next time I looked up from my Kindle was at page 231... 2 hours 57 minutes later.
This book had me HOOKED line and sinker. The characters, the action and the emotion was absolutely on point.
You know as a reader, when you read a blurb and you have a certain idea/expectation from a book? And you want the book to be that but also surprise you?
Uhuh. This is the book. It is exactly what it's promoted as - A domestic thriller. But it's sooooo much more... in a good way.
Casey Kuchler captured the suspense so well. We get the premise in chapter 1. He kills her. Says so in the title. And Casey took that and then killed it. The prose is smart, the dialogue is fantastic, and it's just... Idek.
It's satisfying as all hell is all I can say. And then scream/gush at you to read it. READ IT NOW!!!
This is a debut novel? I mean WHAT!?
I started at page 1 and the next time I looked up from my Kindle was at page 231... 2 hours 57 minutes later.
This book had me HOOKED line and sinker. The characters, the action and the emotion was absolutely on point.
You know as a reader, when you read a blurb and you have a certain idea/expectation from a book? And you want the book to be that but also surprise you?
Uhuh. This is the book. It is exactly what it's promoted as - A domestic thriller. But it's sooooo much more... in a good way.
Casey Kuchler captured the suspense so well. We get the premise in chapter 1. He kills her. Says so in the title. And Casey took that and then killed it. The prose is smart, the dialogue is fantastic, and it's just... Idek.
It's satisfying as all hell is all I can say. And then scream/gush at you to read it. READ IT NOW!!!
November 28, 2023
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for sending me this ARC in exchange for my review! Should Have Killed Me by Casey Kuchler is a captivating domestic thriller centered around a violent and abusive relationship and the lengths a predator will go to for control. From the very first page, I was sucked in with a vengeance. The opening grabs your attention, and the rest of the story holds it. I wasn’t ever bored because there was always something crazy happening. I enjoyed the dual POV even though Bryce is so sick and twisted, because it made for interesting reading seeing inside his head. Casey’s writing made this a page-turner and I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what happened next! I viscerally felt Sunny’s fear and anger through the pages. I felt anxiety myself wondering what would happen next. What a great debut thriller!
December 25, 2023
Should Have Killed Me
Author - Casey Kuchler
Genre - Thriller
Reading Method - ARC
- Domestic Thriller
- Dual POV
- Fast Paced
This was Casey’s debut novel, and let me tell you the start of the book had me hooked instantly. The storyline of the book had so many twists and turns, but in a good way. It was so beautifully written that I could not put it down, and it tugged at my heart for Sunny.
The dual POV really helped to tie the story together, and it made me hate the MMC that much more 😅 Bryce can seriously just get lost in the forest somewhere, and stop lurking in the shadows.
Thank you to sunnybabepr for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
Author - Casey Kuchler
Genre - Thriller
Reading Method - ARC
- Domestic Thriller
- Dual POV
- Fast Paced
This was Casey’s debut novel, and let me tell you the start of the book had me hooked instantly. The storyline of the book had so many twists and turns, but in a good way. It was so beautifully written that I could not put it down, and it tugged at my heart for Sunny.
The dual POV really helped to tie the story together, and it made me hate the MMC that much more 😅 Bryce can seriously just get lost in the forest somewhere, and stop lurking in the shadows.
Thank you to sunnybabepr for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
December 14, 2023
I received this arc from sunnybabe pr. Thank you so much
This domestic thriller is incredibly fast paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
You follow sunny a lounge singer who realizes that the man she’s in a relationship with is much darker than she was really wanting and your follow along her journey to not only keep herself safe but to prove to everyone else that he’s even more dangerous than she thinks.
Perfect for those who like their suspense action packed and pulse pounding.
This domestic thriller is incredibly fast paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
You follow sunny a lounge singer who realizes that the man she’s in a relationship with is much darker than she was really wanting and your follow along her journey to not only keep herself safe but to prove to everyone else that he’s even more dangerous than she thinks.
Perfect for those who like their suspense action packed and pulse pounding.
August 9, 2024
My favorite thing about it is knowing that the main male character is a total P.O.S from the start. Our female main might get the bait and switch, but with the dual POV, we get a look inside of this psycho’s mind from the jump!
“So, it's decided: Sunny must move in with me…She will have to understand that if the cans in the pantry are turned or tilted so that the label can't be seen with a moment's glance…there will be punishments.”
Ooh and the thing with Sunny’s wedding ring! Chef’s kiss!! I love when an author isn’t afraid to add shocking mini details out of left field. 👏🏼 👏🏼
“So, it's decided: Sunny must move in with me…She will have to understand that if the cans in the pantry are turned or tilted so that the label can't be seen with a moment's glance…there will be punishments.”
Ooh and the thing with Sunny’s wedding ring! Chef’s kiss!! I love when an author isn’t afraid to add shocking mini details out of left field. 👏🏼 👏🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2023
A must read if you love thrillers!
I loved this book so much! I blew through it and could NOT put it down! If you like page turners with tons of suspense, you’ll love this book!
I loved this book so much! I blew through it and could NOT put it down! If you like page turners with tons of suspense, you’ll love this book!
June 16, 2024
Wow… What a debut!
This was a fantastic read!
It was so suspenseful, page turning, intense and so many twists!
I was hooked from the beginning, this book was so captivating!
I loved the author’s writing style and the characters were all well developed, some of them you will hate, but most of them you will love!
I definitely recommend this book and I will be reading more from Casey for sure!
**Check it out for TW.
Thank you so much @caseykwriter and @sunnybabepr for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Coming out in 12/01/2023.
This was a fantastic read!
It was so suspenseful, page turning, intense and so many twists!
I was hooked from the beginning, this book was so captivating!
I loved the author’s writing style and the characters were all well developed, some of them you will hate, but most of them you will love!
I definitely recommend this book and I will be reading more from Casey for sure!
**Check it out for TW.
Thank you so much @caseykwriter and @sunnybabepr for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Coming out in 12/01/2023.
December 8, 2023
Should Have Killed Me | Casey Kuchler | Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
** Thanks to SunnyBabePR for an ARC in exchange of an honest review **
Cinematic, Unsettling, Sensual and Intense; Should Have Killed Me is the very definition of Unputdownable. It's engaging from the very first page, it's gripping through and through and if this doesn't keep you hooked, then Thrillers are probably not your thing.
This is a story of an abusive marriage; a controlling, unhinged psychopath; a family with dark secrets, a woman caught in a dangerous trap and of revenge.
The first chapters of the book is an enthralling dark romance. Kuchler knows how to make even the most critical reader fall in love with a murderous stalker. I was subconsciously reading the MMC, Bryce's narrative in the voice of Joe Goldberg (You, Netflix). And toxicity, insanity not withstanding I get Bryce's allure; I get why it's so easy to fall for his charm.
The Dual POV works. Alternating narratives from both the victim's and the perpetrator's perspectives make this an even more engaging read.
The characters are well-written and fleshed-out, the female characters are real and empowered. A victim of domestic abuse and marital rape, FMC Sunny is not just a pretty damsel in distress.
She has agency, she's strong and she knows how to strike back. This portrayal of a victim is not only socially responsible but also impactful. This goes on to ascertain that traditionally strong, self-made, financially independent women can also fall prey to such situations.
The supporting characters of Meera, January, Cynthia also stand out and each of them have their own distinct voices. The friendship between January, her partner Meera and Sunny is refreshing and heart warming.
If I have to be overtly critical, there were a couple of minor plot points which, I felt, could have done with more substantiations. Other than that, not for a paragraph did I feel this is a debut novel.
Should Have Killed Me is dark, it's unsettling, it's disturbing but it's never cringe. Most importantly, this is a thriller which indeed is thrilling till the very last sentence. A rarity, indeed!
Casey Kuchler, you literary beauty, I can't wait to read more from you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
** Thanks to SunnyBabePR for an ARC in exchange of an honest review **
Cinematic, Unsettling, Sensual and Intense; Should Have Killed Me is the very definition of Unputdownable. It's engaging from the very first page, it's gripping through and through and if this doesn't keep you hooked, then Thrillers are probably not your thing.
This is a story of an abusive marriage; a controlling, unhinged psychopath; a family with dark secrets, a woman caught in a dangerous trap and of revenge.
The first chapters of the book is an enthralling dark romance. Kuchler knows how to make even the most critical reader fall in love with a murderous stalker. I was subconsciously reading the MMC, Bryce's narrative in the voice of Joe Goldberg (You, Netflix). And toxicity, insanity not withstanding I get Bryce's allure; I get why it's so easy to fall for his charm.
The Dual POV works. Alternating narratives from both the victim's and the perpetrator's perspectives make this an even more engaging read.
The characters are well-written and fleshed-out, the female characters are real and empowered. A victim of domestic abuse and marital rape, FMC Sunny is not just a pretty damsel in distress.
She has agency, she's strong and she knows how to strike back. This portrayal of a victim is not only socially responsible but also impactful. This goes on to ascertain that traditionally strong, self-made, financially independent women can also fall prey to such situations.
The supporting characters of Meera, January, Cynthia also stand out and each of them have their own distinct voices. The friendship between January, her partner Meera and Sunny is refreshing and heart warming.
If I have to be overtly critical, there were a couple of minor plot points which, I felt, could have done with more substantiations. Other than that, not for a paragraph did I feel this is a debut novel.
Should Have Killed Me is dark, it's unsettling, it's disturbing but it's never cringe. Most importantly, this is a thriller which indeed is thrilling till the very last sentence. A rarity, indeed!
Casey Kuchler, you literary beauty, I can't wait to read more from you!
November 29, 2023
Sunny's been having increasingly frequent run-ins with a blue-eyed stranger. She's charmed by him and the sees the side of life she can only dream of. Bryce has already decided Sunny's his, and when his behaviour takes a turn, it becomes very clear he will do anything to keep his family's secrets hidden.... even if it means killing Sunny. Sunny wakes up after a long coma, grappling with her memories and being told it's all in her head by doctors. If that's true, then why does the sight of those blue eyes make her heart pause?
I haven't read something so compelling in a long time! An easy 5 stars for the binge-worthy story contained within these pages.
First off, please be mindful of the triggers listed at the beginning of the book. They should not be taken lightly and they are quite hefty as the overarching theme of the book.
This is a fast-paced thriller with dual POVs, mostly Sunny's, with a few chapters showing Bryce's. The plot is one that's not for the faint of heart, but it's an incredible story nonetheless. The story is separated into two parts which transition seamlessly from one to the next. I was hooked from the first few pages and had a lot of trouble putting it down in order to be productive. The plot twists are timed just right and kept me on my toes as I read with bated breath. The ending got a bit wild and I would've liked for some decisions by the main character to have been made differently but overall, it worked for the novel.
Casey has succeeded in writing an incredibly well-written debut novel.
I would like to thank sunnybabePR and the author, Casey Kuchler, for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
I haven't read something so compelling in a long time! An easy 5 stars for the binge-worthy story contained within these pages.
First off, please be mindful of the triggers listed at the beginning of the book. They should not be taken lightly and they are quite hefty as the overarching theme of the book.
This is a fast-paced thriller with dual POVs, mostly Sunny's, with a few chapters showing Bryce's. The plot is one that's not for the faint of heart, but it's an incredible story nonetheless. The story is separated into two parts which transition seamlessly from one to the next. I was hooked from the first few pages and had a lot of trouble putting it down in order to be productive. The plot twists are timed just right and kept me on my toes as I read with bated breath. The ending got a bit wild and I would've liked for some decisions by the main character to have been made differently but overall, it worked for the novel.
Casey has succeeded in writing an incredibly well-written debut novel.
I would like to thank sunnybabePR and the author, Casey Kuchler, for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.
December 2, 2023
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Should Have Killed Me by @caseykwriter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @sunnybabepr & @caseykwriter for an advanced reader’s copy! i couldn’t put this book down!! HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
summary: Sunny's life as a lounge singer has been exciting. But lately, run ins with a blue-eyed stranger have her on edge.
He’s been following her, and in his delusions, she is already his. Sunny is charmed by him and sees a side to life that she can only dream of.
But as he starts to unweave his monstrous side, it becomes very clear that he will do anything to keep his family’s secrets hidden, even if that means killing Sunny.
She should have died that night. After a long coma and jagged memories of her own near death, Sunny must grapple with what the doctors tell her: It’s all in her head
She’s safe - they tell her.
But then why does her heart stop beating at the sight of his blue eyes?
She knows what he’s done...
She won’t go down without a fight.
my spoiler free thoughts: this book is so good! i read until my eyes couldn’t stay open any longer two nights in a row. i had a love/hate relationship with Sunny the entire time and just wanted her to be free and happy! I loved the dual POV and the time jumps - it kept me on my toes until the very end. AND THAT ENDING 🤯🤯🤯 it’s been a long time that i’ve felt so resolved at the end! if you like psychological thrillers, add this one to your TBR!
#bookstagram #bookreview #ARC #shouldhavekilledme #thrillerbooks
Should Have Killed Me by @caseykwriter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you @sunnybabepr & @caseykwriter for an advanced reader’s copy! i couldn’t put this book down!! HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
summary: Sunny's life as a lounge singer has been exciting. But lately, run ins with a blue-eyed stranger have her on edge.
He’s been following her, and in his delusions, she is already his. Sunny is charmed by him and sees a side to life that she can only dream of.
But as he starts to unweave his monstrous side, it becomes very clear that he will do anything to keep his family’s secrets hidden, even if that means killing Sunny.
She should have died that night. After a long coma and jagged memories of her own near death, Sunny must grapple with what the doctors tell her: It’s all in her head
She’s safe - they tell her.
But then why does her heart stop beating at the sight of his blue eyes?
She knows what he’s done...
She won’t go down without a fight.
my spoiler free thoughts: this book is so good! i read until my eyes couldn’t stay open any longer two nights in a row. i had a love/hate relationship with Sunny the entire time and just wanted her to be free and happy! I loved the dual POV and the time jumps - it kept me on my toes until the very end. AND THAT ENDING 🤯🤯🤯 it’s been a long time that i’ve felt so resolved at the end! if you like psychological thrillers, add this one to your TBR!
#bookstagram #bookreview #ARC #shouldhavekilledme #thrillerbooks
December 8, 2023
TW: Domestic Violence, rape, abuse
This thriller got me hooked right from the beginning! I love the stories that give you a glimpse of present day and then brings you back in time. The chapters are outlined with dates and while I appreciated the consistency in timeline, I didn’t think they were necessary. This book is for everyone who loves a good thriller or is starting off in the thriller genre and doesn’t mind the trigger warnings above.
Bryce, our MMC, does come on the scene a little abruptly in this story. My rating primarily has to do with him just showing up. How does he become infatuated with Sunny? I would’ve loved to dabble in that area a little more.
Sunny, our FMC, had an excellent storyline and I feel like I know her very well after reading this book. She is a free spirited, happy go lucky, broke 20 something when she meets Bryce. This story is a really great representation of how DV can quite literally take the life out of you to the point where you no longer know who you are. Being in a DV situation long ago, I always appreciate stories that shed light on how the victim is actually feeling because sometimes people don’t understand how victims stay in situations like that.
Thank you so much to Sunny Babe PR for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
This thriller got me hooked right from the beginning! I love the stories that give you a glimpse of present day and then brings you back in time. The chapters are outlined with dates and while I appreciated the consistency in timeline, I didn’t think they were necessary. This book is for everyone who loves a good thriller or is starting off in the thriller genre and doesn’t mind the trigger warnings above.
Bryce, our MMC, does come on the scene a little abruptly in this story. My rating primarily has to do with him just showing up. How does he become infatuated with Sunny? I would’ve loved to dabble in that area a little more.
Sunny, our FMC, had an excellent storyline and I feel like I know her very well after reading this book. She is a free spirited, happy go lucky, broke 20 something when she meets Bryce. This story is a really great representation of how DV can quite literally take the life out of you to the point where you no longer know who you are. Being in a DV situation long ago, I always appreciate stories that shed light on how the victim is actually feeling because sometimes people don’t understand how victims stay in situations like that.
Thank you so much to Sunny Babe PR for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 25, 2024
3 stars, rounding up because it’s Casey’s debut novel. A good thriller! Anyone can write, but not everyone should be an author- sorry! I see potential in Casey’s writing! You can tell she’ll go on to write number one sellers!
This book was really good for the first book. I can’t decide if the connection to the movie Enough made me like this book more or less. I couldn’t get over the similarities. I knew it was going to be like the movie just from the title of the book, before I even started it. From the way he tricked her into meeting and thinking he was a good guy with his friend by his side to the escape/runaway, learning to fight/defend herself scene, even the name Erin!! It didn’t feel like a unique story to me, but not necessarily in a bad way. The time hop/dates were unnecessary and didn’t add anything to the story except confusion. Too many characters. The ending was not my fav. Why the daughter???? Unless there’s going to be a 2nd book on how to raise a psychotic asshole’s baby? lol
The pacing was good! It starts out grabbing your attention from page one. No fluff you have to get through to get to the story which I enjoyed! Cool to see Sunny’s character development from going to someone who was so easily manipulated to be with a man like Bryce to be able to finally take him down. 🔪 Dumb Bryce.
This book was really good for the first book. I can’t decide if the connection to the movie Enough made me like this book more or less. I couldn’t get over the similarities. I knew it was going to be like the movie just from the title of the book, before I even started it. From the way he tricked her into meeting and thinking he was a good guy with his friend by his side to the escape/runaway, learning to fight/defend herself scene, even the name Erin!! It didn’t feel like a unique story to me, but not necessarily in a bad way. The time hop/dates were unnecessary and didn’t add anything to the story except confusion. Too many characters. The ending was not my fav. Why the daughter???? Unless there’s going to be a 2nd book on how to raise a psychotic asshole’s baby? lol
The pacing was good! It starts out grabbing your attention from page one. No fluff you have to get through to get to the story which I enjoyed! Cool to see Sunny’s character development from going to someone who was so easily manipulated to be with a man like Bryce to be able to finally take him down. 🔪 Dumb Bryce.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2023
*ARC Review* 🔅 𝑺𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑲𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝑴𝒆 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒚 𝑲𝒖𝒄𝒉𝒍𝒆𝒓
Genre: Domestic Thriller
Rating: 4🌟
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Casey Kuchler for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
First off, let me say a huge congrats to @caseykwriter on a killer (no pun intended) debut novel. It starts out with a bang and held my attention until the very last page. The only reason I didn’t finish it faster was because it covers some pretty triggering topics - for which I’ll include a warning below - and for the sake of my mental health, I needed to make sure I didn’t get too immersed in the story.
Having both Sunny and Bryce’s POV made this story so wildly dynamic. Even with how disturbed Bryce’s mind is, his inner dialogue was so captivating in an extremely creepy way. This novel has everything a good stalker-thriller is made of!
Should Have Killed Me is a definite page turner and even with all the triggering material, I found myself struggling to put it down because I needed to know what was coming next.
If you’re looking for your next thriller read and you’re comfortable with detailed descriptions of the following triggers, I’d recommend Should Have Killed Me!
Potential Trigger Warning ⚠️
•sexual assault
•self-harm
•suicide
•domestic violence
•alcohol/drug abuse
Genre: Domestic Thriller
Rating: 4🌟
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Casey Kuchler for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
First off, let me say a huge congrats to @caseykwriter on a killer (no pun intended) debut novel. It starts out with a bang and held my attention until the very last page. The only reason I didn’t finish it faster was because it covers some pretty triggering topics - for which I’ll include a warning below - and for the sake of my mental health, I needed to make sure I didn’t get too immersed in the story.
Having both Sunny and Bryce’s POV made this story so wildly dynamic. Even with how disturbed Bryce’s mind is, his inner dialogue was so captivating in an extremely creepy way. This novel has everything a good stalker-thriller is made of!
Should Have Killed Me is a definite page turner and even with all the triggering material, I found myself struggling to put it down because I needed to know what was coming next.
If you’re looking for your next thriller read and you’re comfortable with detailed descriptions of the following triggers, I’d recommend Should Have Killed Me!
Potential Trigger Warning ⚠️
•sexual assault
•self-harm
•suicide
•domestic violence
•alcohol/drug abuse
December 15, 2023
4.5 kept steady.
This book has such an explosive beginning that pulls you right in. This is a very intense book that deals with Domestic Violence. It doesn’t sugar coat and it shows just how people end up in these situations. I loved that this was a dual point of view story.
It genuinely showed how insane Bryce was. He was truly the most unhinged man. I wished so hard that Sunny would see him for who he was and to trust his gut. However, she unfortunately fell into the cycle.
One reason why I knocked this book down half a star was because the ending felt a little bit unrealistic. I love Meera, but I am not sure if what happens was super realistic. I mean…I know people do wild things? But yeah.
Part two felt slightly unconnected to the first and that is another reason that I knocked this book down 1/2 a star. Also, I cheered for Sunny. Especially with how she pulled herself out of the situation in Florida and allowed her friends to help her.
Casey!!!! Casey!!!! Casey!!!! I need to know what happens with Anthony & Sunny! Just a teensy novella…please???? I love all the support that January & Meera gave to Sunny. This is a beautiful book and it is one that I would recommend to other readers.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book has such an explosive beginning that pulls you right in. This is a very intense book that deals with Domestic Violence. It doesn’t sugar coat and it shows just how people end up in these situations. I loved that this was a dual point of view story.
It genuinely showed how insane Bryce was. He was truly the most unhinged man. I wished so hard that Sunny would see him for who he was and to trust his gut. However, she unfortunately fell into the cycle.
One reason why I knocked this book down half a star was because the ending felt a little bit unrealistic. I love Meera, but I am not sure if what happens was super realistic. I mean…I know people do wild things? But yeah.
Part two felt slightly unconnected to the first and that is another reason that I knocked this book down 1/2 a star. Also, I cheered for Sunny. Especially with how she pulled herself out of the situation in Florida and allowed her friends to help her.
Casey!!!! Casey!!!! Casey!!!! I need to know what happens with Anthony & Sunny! Just a teensy novella…please???? I love all the support that January & Meera gave to Sunny. This is a beautiful book and it is one that I would recommend to other readers.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 27, 2023
This was a phenomenal debut! I finished it in one setting because I could not put it down and I really needed to know what happened. Thank you @sunnybabepr and Casey for this free copy for my honest review!
Trigger Warnings:
sexual assault, self-harm, suicide, domestic violence
I was hooked from the first sentence and I settled into my couch for the day. I was so full of hatred for Bryce, love/hope/frustration for Sunny. I do feel like Kuchler has a great way of making you feel the emotions that each character is feeling and I loooove a good character development. What was so good about this book as that I really was not trying to predict the ending, I was just enjoying (or angrily enjoying?) the ride. I really think that Kuchler has just started her career and it is going to be a phenomenal one at that.
I will say Part One was more interesting to me and Part Two I struggled a bit with connecting with Sunny. I kind of lost that deep connection for a few chapters but by the end I was back inline with Sunny. This may have been done for a reason but I don't want to give away any spoilers.
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited now and would be a great addition to read before the New Year ends and to help you achieve your reading goal!
Trigger Warnings:
sexual assault, self-harm, suicide, domestic violence
I was hooked from the first sentence and I settled into my couch for the day. I was so full of hatred for Bryce, love/hope/frustration for Sunny. I do feel like Kuchler has a great way of making you feel the emotions that each character is feeling and I loooove a good character development. What was so good about this book as that I really was not trying to predict the ending, I was just enjoying (or angrily enjoying?) the ride. I really think that Kuchler has just started her career and it is going to be a phenomenal one at that.
I will say Part One was more interesting to me and Part Two I struggled a bit with connecting with Sunny. I kind of lost that deep connection for a few chapters but by the end I was back inline with Sunny. This may have been done for a reason but I don't want to give away any spoilers.
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited now and would be a great addition to read before the New Year ends and to help you achieve your reading goal!
November 30, 2023
@caseykwriter created a BEAST of a debut novel, my little sweet friends. Let’s talk about it!
I was granted the opportunity to read SHOULD HAVE KILLED ME in exchange for an honest review and I am forever grateful.
This book, oh my heaven this book. The will she won’t she, the cat and mouse, the adrenaline and action, the trauma and trigger warnings were spectacular!!!!!
From page 1 I was hooked. Page 1. I couldn’t put it down. I loved every freaking second.
This is the type of book that has you on the edge of your seat stress eating all of the snacks. I’m not kidding.
I love a book that has me rooting for the FMC to overcome her very real obstacles and to find peace. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more.
If you love suspense, this book needs to be moved to the TOP of your TBR list. Please be mindful of the TW, they are very real and you need to be in a good mental space. (I only say this because I love you)
With that being said, I promise you won’t regret this read.
Hands down, easiest 5 ⭐️’s of my year.
Thank you to the author and @sunnybabepr for introducing me to this book. Forever a fan 😍
#shouldhavekilledme #suspense #sunnybabe #arc #arcreader #arcreview #bookreview #mystery
I was granted the opportunity to read SHOULD HAVE KILLED ME in exchange for an honest review and I am forever grateful.
This book, oh my heaven this book. The will she won’t she, the cat and mouse, the adrenaline and action, the trauma and trigger warnings were spectacular!!!!!
From page 1 I was hooked. Page 1. I couldn’t put it down. I loved every freaking second.
This is the type of book that has you on the edge of your seat stress eating all of the snacks. I’m not kidding.
I love a book that has me rooting for the FMC to overcome her very real obstacles and to find peace. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more.
If you love suspense, this book needs to be moved to the TOP of your TBR list. Please be mindful of the TW, they are very real and you need to be in a good mental space. (I only say this because I love you)
With that being said, I promise you won’t regret this read.
Hands down, easiest 5 ⭐️’s of my year.
Thank you to the author and @sunnybabepr for introducing me to this book. Forever a fan 😍
#shouldhavekilledme #suspense #sunnybabe #arc #arcreader #arcreview #bookreview #mystery
December 12, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
What an amazing debut thriller this was! From the very first page, I was hooked!! Not only did it grab my interest right away, it held it there throughout the entire book.
This book was separated into two parts which transition from one situation to the next.
I love the dual timeline. Being in the protagonists head always leaves me so interested in their thought process. It kept me at the edge of my seat the entire time.
I’m a thriller girlie and I have very high standards for my thriller books and this definitely did not disappoint. This is a perfect winter read and I definitely recommend. I will definitely be reading future books from this author!!
🪓❄️🎿🩸🪢🫣
*Check trigger warnings before you read*
Read If You Like:
🪓 Domestic thrillers
🪓 Dual POV
🪓 Fast paced
🪓 Strong female friendship
🪓 Intelligent psychopath
This is available in paperback and Kindle Unlimited.
**Thank you @sunnybabepr and author @caseykwriter for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review**
What an amazing debut thriller this was! From the very first page, I was hooked!! Not only did it grab my interest right away, it held it there throughout the entire book.
This book was separated into two parts which transition from one situation to the next.
I love the dual timeline. Being in the protagonists head always leaves me so interested in their thought process. It kept me at the edge of my seat the entire time.
I’m a thriller girlie and I have very high standards for my thriller books and this definitely did not disappoint. This is a perfect winter read and I definitely recommend. I will definitely be reading future books from this author!!
🪓❄️🎿🩸🪢🫣
*Check trigger warnings before you read*
Read If You Like:
🪓 Domestic thrillers
🪓 Dual POV
🪓 Fast paced
🪓 Strong female friendship
🪓 Intelligent psychopath
This is available in paperback and Kindle Unlimited.
**Thank you @sunnybabepr and author @caseykwriter for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review**
December 14, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The way this book made me feel while reading it OMG I was heated 😡🤬!!! And not in the good way 😂
You get to know Sunny, and what she does now and she’s taking care of her sick mom. Then one day Bryce shows up stalking her and he wants to be in her life so bad that he purposely bumps into her outside her apartment then again later on.
The point is that he wants her to move in with him and he purposes to her. Awwww how cute!!! Right! WRONG !!!! He is a trash person and omg the way I wanted to go into the book and kick his 🍑🍑 there were a couple of times I screamed !!! This was definitely a DV situation. But not only that !!! I got ahead of my self already, he was so jealous of her SICK mom that he decided to “take care” of her ! Like ahhh are you kidding me!
All I’m going to say is his family are A-holes and they all deserved what happen to them!!!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone!!! Just make sure not to throw your kindle at the wall lol 🫣😅
Thank you Sunny PR and Casey for introducing me to this beauty 😂🖤
The way this book made me feel while reading it OMG I was heated 😡🤬!!! And not in the good way 😂
You get to know Sunny, and what she does now and she’s taking care of her sick mom. Then one day Bryce shows up stalking her and he wants to be in her life so bad that he purposely bumps into her outside her apartment then again later on.
The point is that he wants her to move in with him and he purposes to her. Awwww how cute!!! Right! WRONG !!!! He is a trash person and omg the way I wanted to go into the book and kick his 🍑🍑 there were a couple of times I screamed !!! This was definitely a DV situation. But not only that !!! I got ahead of my self already, he was so jealous of her SICK mom that he decided to “take care” of her ! Like ahhh are you kidding me!
All I’m going to say is his family are A-holes and they all deserved what happen to them!!!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone!!! Just make sure not to throw your kindle at the wall lol 🫣😅
Thank you Sunny PR and Casey for introducing me to this beauty 😂🖤
December 27, 2023
“The weight of the axe in my skull makes my neck muscles strain. I have to lean over to walk”
Once I read this line I was hooked! I felt like I could just picture it and really made me want to read this book straight through!
_______________________________________________
This was such a great debut novel. I had so many intense feelings while reading this book! I don’t think I could have disliked Bryce and his father Birch anymore for what they put the women in their life through!
I typically love time jumps in books but for some reason I was confused until about 50% of the way through. It might have been because the dates were set so far in the future. I just kept having to go back and check each date to understand what time period I was at.
I can’t wait to see what else this author writes. I love this type of book and was such a great way to break up all the romances I’ve been reading.
Thank you @sunnybabepr and @caseykwriter for the opportunity to read and review this book!
December 29, 2023
Goodness, books with abusive relationships like this make me super thankful for my cinnamon roll partner. There’s always the thought of “why don’t you just leave him?” but that’s so hard to do when you’re in the abusive relationship. Granted, this was definitely an extreme version of what can happen, and wow did it make for a thriller. I found myself getting more into it as the story went on and I needed to know how things were handled next.
The story starts out with him killing her with an ax to the head (yikes!)—- or at least he thought he did. She survived.
After that you go back in time seeing how their relationship led up to that, and then the events that followed.
It was so good, and I was cheering for Sunny the whole time. Like yes girl, get your revenge. Make him (and his horrible father) suffer for everything. Also that last minute plot twist 👀 I kind of saw it coming but wasn’t sure if we were going to loop back to it.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR for the copy!
The story starts out with him killing her with an ax to the head (yikes!)—- or at least he thought he did. She survived.
After that you go back in time seeing how their relationship led up to that, and then the events that followed.
It was so good, and I was cheering for Sunny the whole time. Like yes girl, get your revenge. Make him (and his horrible father) suffer for everything. Also that last minute plot twist 👀 I kind of saw it coming but wasn’t sure if we were going to loop back to it.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR for the copy!
December 1, 2023
Should Have Killed Me puts the 𝗣𝗦𝗬𝗖𝗛𝗢 in psychological thriller. This book was nuts! I was on the edge of my seat for most of it and I actually could NOT stop reading. I legitimately stayed up WAY too late because I could not even consider going to sleep until I was finished with the entire book. Seriously @writerCasey, WHO HURT YOU??
I loved the author’s writing style and the way the book was organized. The book was set up in two parts and both parts were dual POV. There was not a single page that I was disengaged with the story and there was absolutely no nodding off (which is actual very typical of me). I was INVESTED in this story. I don’t want to talk about the storyline in fear of giving spoilers, but I will post the synopsis in the comments.
Should Have Killed Me is available on kindle-unlimited AND paperback!
I loved the author’s writing style and the way the book was organized. The book was set up in two parts and both parts were dual POV. There was not a single page that I was disengaged with the story and there was absolutely no nodding off (which is actual very typical of me). I was INVESTED in this story. I don’t want to talk about the storyline in fear of giving spoilers, but I will post the synopsis in the comments.
Should Have Killed Me is available on kindle-unlimited AND paperback!
December 12, 2023
Thank you so much! Casey Kuchler and sunnybabepr for the arc!
Wow!! This book was really good!
Sunny is a singer in a bar and a waitress in a restaurant. She doesn’t know Bryce Arronson has been following everywhere. He found out where she works and where she lives and knows how many people she brings home. When she finally meets him she thinks it’s by chance. Little does she know that it’s not, she agrees to go on one date with him. It’s not long after they start dating that she moves in with Bryce.
She starts to see all the red flags but she ignores them until it’s too late. She should have left him after the first incident. The ending was great I really enjoyed the ending. The whole book was good. Be sure to check the trigger warnings before you attempt to read the book other than that I do recommend the book.
Wow!! This book was really good!
Sunny is a singer in a bar and a waitress in a restaurant. She doesn’t know Bryce Arronson has been following everywhere. He found out where she works and where she lives and knows how many people she brings home. When she finally meets him she thinks it’s by chance. Little does she know that it’s not, she agrees to go on one date with him. It’s not long after they start dating that she moves in with Bryce.
She starts to see all the red flags but she ignores them until it’s too late. She should have left him after the first incident. The ending was great I really enjoyed the ending. The whole book was good. Be sure to check the trigger warnings before you attempt to read the book other than that I do recommend the book.
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