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Of Gods and Monsters #2
One Saccharine Dream
“I am the Father of Darkness, the Void Between the Stars, Creator of your Gods, and the Eater of Souls. I am Chaos, the Deathless God, and I
will
find you.”
Still reeling from his trauma in the Asylum, Brooks is hell-bent on saving the Siren who holds his heart. Fighting the Deathless God lurking under his skin is only part of the battle, though. When Brooks discovers the great cycle of chaos has been broken, he’s left near powerless and out of control.
After a deadly battle in Club Hel with the Lord of Nightmares, Xia realizes he’s no longer the most dangerous monster in the room. She must find a way to balance who she was with who she is becoming, but the path to righteousness is most often paid in blood and her Siren is ravenous for a taste.
Defiance was not obedience, and good girls were obedient.
Raised to be the perfect bride, Persephone lived a life of seclusion and proprietary under the watchful eye of her mother. After a string of handsome strangers claim more interest in her soul than her beauty, the Goddess of Spring finds the cost of disobedience is more than she can afford to pay.
When a scrappy thief with more secrets than truths proves to be the missing link between salvation and damnation, will they wake from a nightmare only to be caught in a saccharine dream?
***This is a dark romantic fantasy intended for mature audiences. If you like the ruthless side of the Greek Gods, this series is for you. Please check the author's website for CW's and proceed with caution. You've been warned, Darling. Welcome to the Freakshow.
Still reeling from his trauma in the Asylum, Brooks is hell-bent on saving the Siren who holds his heart. Fighting the Deathless God lurking under his skin is only part of the battle, though. When Brooks discovers the great cycle of chaos has been broken, he’s left near powerless and out of control.
After a deadly battle in Club Hel with the Lord of Nightmares, Xia realizes he’s no longer the most dangerous monster in the room. She must find a way to balance who she was with who she is becoming, but the path to righteousness is most often paid in blood and her Siren is ravenous for a taste.
Defiance was not obedience, and good girls were obedient.
Raised to be the perfect bride, Persephone lived a life of seclusion and proprietary under the watchful eye of her mother. After a string of handsome strangers claim more interest in her soul than her beauty, the Goddess of Spring finds the cost of disobedience is more than she can afford to pay.
When a scrappy thief with more secrets than truths proves to be the missing link between salvation and damnation, will they wake from a nightmare only to be caught in a saccharine dream?
***This is a dark romantic fantasy intended for mature audiences. If you like the ruthless side of the Greek Gods, this series is for you. Please check the author's website for CW's and proceed with caution. You've been warned, Darling. Welcome to the Freakshow.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
68 people are currently reading
921 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 28, 2024
✔️ Morally Grey FMC & MMC
✔️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✔️ Touch Her & ☠️☠️
✔️ One Bed
This book has sound advice,
"𝙽𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚜 [𝙿𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚙𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎]. 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐."
A delicious morally Grey MMC,
"𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚖𝚎𝚜𝚜. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝙸’𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚑𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎. 𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚝’𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚎 𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚌𝚎𝚜, 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚎"
To an even better villain,
"𝙲𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝙺𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚗. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝙸 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎."
Honestly, this book just has a little bit of everything, and I recommend it to everyone.
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
3 🌶
✔️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✔️ Touch Her & ☠️☠️
✔️ One Bed
This book has sound advice,
"𝙽𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍𝚜 [𝙿𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚙𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎]. 𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐."
A delicious morally Grey MMC,
"𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚖𝚎𝚜𝚜. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝙸’𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚑𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎. 𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚝’𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚎 𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚙𝚒𝚎𝚌𝚎𝚜, 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚎"
To an even better villain,
"𝙲𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝙺𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚗. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝙸 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚎."
Honestly, this book just has a little bit of everything, and I recommend it to everyone.
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
3 🌶
March 14, 2024
Dawn Darling does it again, I am utterly obsessed with the Of Gods and Monsters series and cannot wait to see where it goes from here.
*SPOILER ALERT for those who haven't read One Little Nightmare - no spoilers for One Saccharine Dream*
We are thrown back into a world so wholly unique, built on a basis of classic Greek mythology with a huge twist. I have never read a book/series inspired by Greek mythology that takes the turns that this story does, there's such a unique integration of that ancient Greek lore that we are all familiar with that I haven't seen done before - and it's absolutely ADDICTING.
We pick up after a massive cliffhanger in One Little Nightmare, where Brooks & the God of Chaos are united in a singular form, thanks to Lytta's sacrifice, with a driving goal of saving Xia, our lovely, tormented siren, from her captor and abuser - the Lord of Nightmares, Phoebetor. We meet new characters along the way - most notably Nyx, a poor human girl with seeing abilities who is existing with the sole purpose of taking care of her city, filled with mortals who are struggling greatly since being abandoned by the God of Chaos, their prayers left unanswered. We meet Nyx as she is planning to rob Club Hel, Tor's domain, when she is caught by Tor and blackmailed into helping him in his own diabolic endeavors. Nyx's path will ultimately entwine with Brooks and Xia, in a web of lies and deception.
The stakes are high - but let me tell you, the TENSION is even HIGHER. Okay - I know the Lord of Nightmares is absolutely horrible - but he still gives me fanny flutters in his taunting encounters with Nyx. He is not morally grey - more like morally PITCH BLACK - but I still find myself rooting for him and Nyx to be together? LOL I HAVE ISSUES. I'll bring it up to my therapist.
Just as in OLN, I absolutely adore Brooks and Xia together. They're navigating finding a happy medium in their relationship in OSD, Xia (and her siren inside) are sure in their ways that they are able to take care of themselves and don't need Brooks'/Chaos' overbearing protection. Brooks just wants to make sure she's safe and cared for. Despite a few bumps in the road that I know they'll be able to work through, their love is so pure and I just can't wait for more of them - and hopefully a HEA. There is a spice scene in this book that is CHEF'S KISS- in the words of Dawn Darling, Brooks is our favorite yes man. We *love* a submissive king.
As this book is a multi-POV like OLN, we are introduced to another new POV from Persephone herself. Darling takes off with a totally new take on a retelling of Persephone x Hades, and Narcissus, and I found myself constantly trying to decode how the Persephone POV would tie into our story. We find out at the end - and my jaw was on the floor. Just truly genius. I didn't see it coming!
We end off on a massive cliffhanger, as much as it pains me, I wouldn't have it any other way. I can't wait to figure out what happens next - but in the meantime, I think I'm already ready for a series reread!!
This is getting lengthy, but to conclude - I just think that Dawn Darling truly is a mastermind and its SCARY. The way everything intertwines and eventually comes to fruition, even the slightest details you may not think are important, is so satisfying and so mind blowing. One Little Nightmare and One Saccharine Dream are ultimate page turners and I've never read anything like them. Truly dark works of art, I cannot get enough!
*SPOILER ALERT for those who haven't read One Little Nightmare - no spoilers for One Saccharine Dream*
We are thrown back into a world so wholly unique, built on a basis of classic Greek mythology with a huge twist. I have never read a book/series inspired by Greek mythology that takes the turns that this story does, there's such a unique integration of that ancient Greek lore that we are all familiar with that I haven't seen done before - and it's absolutely ADDICTING.
We pick up after a massive cliffhanger in One Little Nightmare, where Brooks & the God of Chaos are united in a singular form, thanks to Lytta's sacrifice, with a driving goal of saving Xia, our lovely, tormented siren, from her captor and abuser - the Lord of Nightmares, Phoebetor. We meet new characters along the way - most notably Nyx, a poor human girl with seeing abilities who is existing with the sole purpose of taking care of her city, filled with mortals who are struggling greatly since being abandoned by the God of Chaos, their prayers left unanswered. We meet Nyx as she is planning to rob Club Hel, Tor's domain, when she is caught by Tor and blackmailed into helping him in his own diabolic endeavors. Nyx's path will ultimately entwine with Brooks and Xia, in a web of lies and deception.
The stakes are high - but let me tell you, the TENSION is even HIGHER. Okay - I know the Lord of Nightmares is absolutely horrible - but he still gives me fanny flutters in his taunting encounters with Nyx. He is not morally grey - more like morally PITCH BLACK - but I still find myself rooting for him and Nyx to be together? LOL I HAVE ISSUES. I'll bring it up to my therapist.
Just as in OLN, I absolutely adore Brooks and Xia together. They're navigating finding a happy medium in their relationship in OSD, Xia (and her siren inside) are sure in their ways that they are able to take care of themselves and don't need Brooks'/Chaos' overbearing protection. Brooks just wants to make sure she's safe and cared for. Despite a few bumps in the road that I know they'll be able to work through, their love is so pure and I just can't wait for more of them - and hopefully a HEA. There is a spice scene in this book that is CHEF'S KISS- in the words of Dawn Darling, Brooks is our favorite yes man. We *love* a submissive king.
As this book is a multi-POV like OLN, we are introduced to another new POV from Persephone herself. Darling takes off with a totally new take on a retelling of Persephone x Hades, and Narcissus, and I found myself constantly trying to decode how the Persephone POV would tie into our story. We find out at the end - and my jaw was on the floor. Just truly genius. I didn't see it coming!
We end off on a massive cliffhanger, as much as it pains me, I wouldn't have it any other way. I can't wait to figure out what happens next - but in the meantime, I think I'm already ready for a series reread!!
This is getting lengthy, but to conclude - I just think that Dawn Darling truly is a mastermind and its SCARY. The way everything intertwines and eventually comes to fruition, even the slightest details you may not think are important, is so satisfying and so mind blowing. One Little Nightmare and One Saccharine Dream are ultimate page turners and I've never read anything like them. Truly dark works of art, I cannot get enough!
March 14, 2024
Honestly this book probably would have been a 4.5-5 stars had my dumb self just paid attention and took notes.
Long story short.. this is the second book of "Of Gods And Monsters" right? Right. And the SMART thing to do refresh your mind on what happened in the previous book(s) right? RIGHT! Guess what I didn't do..? I didn't do the smart thing.
My dumb self walked straight into this book without so much as even LOOKING at One Little Nightmare (book 1) again. Now in my defense, I remembered the basics of what happened. So going back and rereading to freshen up my mind on these characters just didn't seem all that important when I knew how the book ended and what was and wasn't real. However.. this is not the author to do that to. If you've read OLN before and are looking at picking up this gem of a book ⚠️REREAD ONE LITTLE NIGHTMARE⚠️!!! Or at the VERY least, start from Chapter 27 to the end. Those are the most important chapters to collect information from that IS important for the second book.
I cannot explain in words how royally PISSED I was with myself for not even thinking that doing a little reread might be beneficial. Grant it, most books are pretty closeted with specific information and you don't know it until it legit slaps you in the face in like the last 50% of the last book (depending on the main plot of the series that is). This series, however, gifts you with little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout even One Little Nightmare. Near the end are the more "golden" Easter eggs I guess you could call them.
But yeah, you know that sound on TikTok, the little "dada da da da" sound that people use for their animals who look like they have nothing going on in their brains? Yeah. That was me. That was me reading One Saccharine Dream just ignoring all the tell tale signs of what should have been SO OBVIOUS had I paid attention. It really bothers me just how clueless I was. I honestly felt like Persephone herself in this book. (Yes we get some Persephone and Hades action! Not a spoiler because the author herself revealed this information😌)
Anywaaaaaaays, this really was a great book and when the 3rd releases, I will be SURE to have my notes ready so I don't feel this way again😅 Now all of that ranting above had absolutely nothing to do with OSD itself, just my own cluelessness and blatant disregard for my ability to access OLN before picking up book 2. But at the end of the day, that did hinder my reading experience and 4 stars just is what feels right for me. There were some slow parts that made me slightly disconnect, as most books do. Otherwise, this was an amazing read.
Take the trigger warnings seriously though!!! While to me I knew I could handle them, certain things that happened in this book definitely got my emotions riled up (in a not so positive way) because characters were hurting other characters and I didn't want any harm to come to them.
So please check the trigger warnings and understand that you're about to enter an emotionally damaging book🥲 While I may not be able to closely relate to one very specific character (iykyk), I have someone very close in my life that I was able to connect them to and it broke my heart all the more to see such struggles and terrible things happen to them.
This was an ARC read and I feel honored to have had a chance to read this amazing book!
Long story short.. this is the second book of "Of Gods And Monsters" right? Right. And the SMART thing to do refresh your mind on what happened in the previous book(s) right? RIGHT! Guess what I didn't do..? I didn't do the smart thing.
My dumb self walked straight into this book without so much as even LOOKING at One Little Nightmare (book 1) again. Now in my defense, I remembered the basics of what happened. So going back and rereading to freshen up my mind on these characters just didn't seem all that important when I knew how the book ended and what was and wasn't real. However.. this is not the author to do that to. If you've read OLN before and are looking at picking up this gem of a book ⚠️REREAD ONE LITTLE NIGHTMARE⚠️!!! Or at the VERY least, start from Chapter 27 to the end. Those are the most important chapters to collect information from that IS important for the second book.
I cannot explain in words how royally PISSED I was with myself for not even thinking that doing a little reread might be beneficial. Grant it, most books are pretty closeted with specific information and you don't know it until it legit slaps you in the face in like the last 50% of the last book (depending on the main plot of the series that is). This series, however, gifts you with little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout even One Little Nightmare. Near the end are the more "golden" Easter eggs I guess you could call them.
But yeah, you know that sound on TikTok, the little "dada da da da" sound that people use for their animals who look like they have nothing going on in their brains? Yeah. That was me. That was me reading One Saccharine Dream just ignoring all the tell tale signs of what should have been SO OBVIOUS had I paid attention. It really bothers me just how clueless I was. I honestly felt like Persephone herself in this book. (Yes we get some Persephone and Hades action! Not a spoiler because the author herself revealed this information😌)
Anywaaaaaaays, this really was a great book and when the 3rd releases, I will be SURE to have my notes ready so I don't feel this way again😅 Now all of that ranting above had absolutely nothing to do with OSD itself, just my own cluelessness and blatant disregard for my ability to access OLN before picking up book 2. But at the end of the day, that did hinder my reading experience and 4 stars just is what feels right for me. There were some slow parts that made me slightly disconnect, as most books do. Otherwise, this was an amazing read.
Take the trigger warnings seriously though!!! While to me I knew I could handle them, certain things that happened in this book definitely got my emotions riled up (in a not so positive way) because characters were hurting other characters and I didn't want any harm to come to them.
So please check the trigger warnings and understand that you're about to enter an emotionally damaging book🥲 While I may not be able to closely relate to one very specific character (iykyk), I have someone very close in my life that I was able to connect them to and it broke my heart all the more to see such struggles and terrible things happen to them.
This was an ARC read and I feel honored to have had a chance to read this amazing book!
July 22, 2024
You really need to pay attention when reading these books. With that being said, I’m obsessed! The way everything comes together by the end of this book is just chef’s kiss. I cannot wait for book 3!
November 13, 2024
Oh my goodness! I am screaming! The twists that this book has has sent my mind all over the place! I couldn’t predict any of the twists if I even tried! I cannot wait for the next book!
Read
May 13, 2024Flipping brilliant!!! Loved it!
Can't wait for the third one 😁
Can't wait for the third one 😁
February 17, 2024
Read right after the first one (both books in two days) and loved it as well, even though this one is more of a 4-4.5/5 instead of the full 5/5 the first book was. I liked the addition of more characters and their backstory and how it interweaved with the main story.
I did not really care for the exact same “twist” in every character and that felt rushed in some characters. If this is the moral of the story, I hope that it’s thoroughly explained and explored in book three, as it just seems repetitive now. There also was no real lead up to the psychical aspect of this twist in the MC, and felt like a somewhat cheap way of hinting at a future threesome/foursome (which I wouldn’t be against in theory).
The twists from book one that had me reeling in the best way are kind of lacking or just repeated in this book, although I have to admit there are some awesome scenes with all the feels in this book, too.
Read the ARC after backing the kickstarter.
This needs another once over by an editor as there were a number of sentences that lacked words/had the wrong name making them hard or impossible to understand. There’s also a couple of mistakes (for example the place being written on the invitation but Nyx “figuring it out” two pages later). Both of these things disrupted the otherwise very good flow of the book.
All in all looking forward to the next book, I adore the way this author writes, as it completely transports me into the world and keeps me there, enthralled. The writing itself isn’t repetitive and the author manages to evoke real surprise and emotions in this book. The SHOCK I felt after the second betrayal was REAL.
Can’t wait for the next book!
I did not really care for the exact same “twist” in every character and that felt rushed in some characters. If this is the moral of the story, I hope that it’s thoroughly explained and explored in book three, as it just seems repetitive now. There also was no real lead up to the psychical aspect of this twist in the MC, and felt like a somewhat cheap way of hinting at a future threesome/foursome (which I wouldn’t be against in theory).
The twists from book one that had me reeling in the best way are kind of lacking or just repeated in this book, although I have to admit there are some awesome scenes with all the feels in this book, too.
Read the ARC after backing the kickstarter.
This needs another once over by an editor as there were a number of sentences that lacked words/had the wrong name making them hard or impossible to understand. There’s also a couple of mistakes (for example the place being written on the invitation but Nyx “figuring it out” two pages later). Both of these things disrupted the otherwise very good flow of the book.
All in all looking forward to the next book, I adore the way this author writes, as it completely transports me into the world and keeps me there, enthralled. The writing itself isn’t repetitive and the author manages to evoke real surprise and emotions in this book. The SHOCK I felt after the second betrayal was REAL.
Can’t wait for the next book!
June 25, 2024
This is a must read, I absolutely love it. The love and devotion Brooks has for Xia and the obsessive and possessiveness for his little siren is perfection, I love it, and this book will put you in all your feelings and have your heart racing especially with the hot and spicy bits. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat, wanting more, wanting to know what will happen next. Dawn Darling's writing is phenomenal. I highly recommend this dark Greek mythology romance, and I'm mean it's dark, the best kind of dark, but read the trigger warnings before you read this wonderful book and it is best to read one little nightmare first and you won't regret reading that book either (ARC copy review from kickstarter)
April 9, 2024
‘“Embracing your chaos means finding peace in your heart and living with all parts of who you are. Even the ones you hide from’”’
One Saccharine Dream is so beautifully written, this is the second book in Dawn Darling’s Of Gods and Monsters, and the storytelling and the character development is amazing.
This story has ruined me, in the best possible way though. It will definitely rip your heart out.
A must read for anyone who loves the dark fantasy romance genre.
Heavy triggers so check before diving in 🖤
One Saccharine Dream is so beautifully written, this is the second book in Dawn Darling’s Of Gods and Monsters, and the storytelling and the character development is amazing.
This story has ruined me, in the best possible way though. It will definitely rip your heart out.
A must read for anyone who loves the dark fantasy romance genre.
Heavy triggers so check before diving in 🖤
June 10, 2025
I loved the Persephone plotline, it was a fascinating and well written side story with a build up to a great reveal at the end. Outside of that, it felt like not much happened in this book and I felt that some of it could have been easily edited down. There was a lot of "telling, not showing" with the world building whereas I felt we got the opposite in the first book which is what I loved about it. I did like the common link across the various character plots of men letting women down and the consequences of triggering female rage. I'm looking forward to seeing how this series progresses.
April 9, 2024
Amazing book.
The development of Xia and Brooks and the introduction of Nyx is absolutely stunning. I reread the first to touch up on stuff and I'm glad I did, but the way in which the author ties everything together is AMAZING. I can't wait for the last installment of the Of Gods and Monsters series 🖤
The development of Xia and Brooks and the introduction of Nyx is absolutely stunning. I reread the first to touch up on stuff and I'm glad I did, but the way in which the author ties everything together is AMAZING. I can't wait for the last installment of the Of Gods and Monsters series 🖤
April 9, 2024
Ok, I am a little stunned right now. I was kind of worried to start this book, because One Little Nightmare was breath taking and gut wrenching, and how could anything top that? Did I want to go through the pain again?! I was quickly swept back up into this crazy, dark, but beautiful world and it matched book one in every way. It was phenomenal!
I was so excited that Persephone and Hades were going to be in this book and my mind was already whirring, trying to figure out how everything would tie in. I simply was not ready. My heart absolutely broke for her and I want to say so much (but can't because of spoilers and everything is so much better if you just let everything unfold.) I'll just say that I'll always have a soft spot for Persephone in every version of her that exists. Nyx was another new character that my heart ached for. Even though she can be abrasive and hot/cold, I understand the pain she felt and the need she had to cover herself in armor. She would do anything to protect the people she loves and does whatever is necessary, including cutting off her emotions.
And this is what is so brilliant about what Dawn does - she creates characters that you know you should hate, but because of their circumstances and how they are being manipulated, you start to feel sorry for them. You understand the struggle and want everything to turn out ok. I had to catch myself because I started feeling bad for the Lord of Nightmares. Like what?! After everything he did to Xia?
I really loved how Brooks and Chaos, and Xia and the Siren, were shown as two separate characters. Two parts of the whole. One more human with emotions and morals, and the other that is just straight power. Both sides perfect for each other, two lost souls in Brooks and Xia, and two seeking vengeance in Chaos and Siren. Made for each other. It was amazing seeing these two together after what happened to them in book one, but their journey is just beginning. I see the points of both sides, wanting to protect while also being free to make own decisions.
I know a decent amount about Greek gods and myths, but it's amazing how Dawn is weaving together all the stories and bringing these characters to life. I've never read anything quite like it. All of this is building up to a grand finale and I cannot wait to see how it ends!
I was so excited that Persephone and Hades were going to be in this book and my mind was already whirring, trying to figure out how everything would tie in. I simply was not ready. My heart absolutely broke for her and I want to say so much (but can't because of spoilers and everything is so much better if you just let everything unfold.) I'll just say that I'll always have a soft spot for Persephone in every version of her that exists. Nyx was another new character that my heart ached for. Even though she can be abrasive and hot/cold, I understand the pain she felt and the need she had to cover herself in armor. She would do anything to protect the people she loves and does whatever is necessary, including cutting off her emotions.
And this is what is so brilliant about what Dawn does - she creates characters that you know you should hate, but because of their circumstances and how they are being manipulated, you start to feel sorry for them. You understand the struggle and want everything to turn out ok. I had to catch myself because I started feeling bad for the Lord of Nightmares. Like what?! After everything he did to Xia?
I really loved how Brooks and Chaos, and Xia and the Siren, were shown as two separate characters. Two parts of the whole. One more human with emotions and morals, and the other that is just straight power. Both sides perfect for each other, two lost souls in Brooks and Xia, and two seeking vengeance in Chaos and Siren. Made for each other. It was amazing seeing these two together after what happened to them in book one, but their journey is just beginning. I see the points of both sides, wanting to protect while also being free to make own decisions.
I know a decent amount about Greek gods and myths, but it's amazing how Dawn is weaving together all the stories and bringing these characters to life. I've never read anything quite like it. All of this is building up to a grand finale and I cannot wait to see how it ends!
May 29, 2024
This one picked up right where book 1 left off...or at least, partially.
The story of of Brooks/Chaos and Xia continues but a second, separate storyline featuring Persephone emerges.
Persephone's storyline takes place in a time of history and slowly progresses to present day where it entwines with our other characters.
Much like Pandora, I really enjoyed reading about Persephone and formed a good amount of sympathy for her along the way. Her development came as a bit of a shock in the end though...which I won't divulge here (to avoid spoilers)
As for Brooks and Xia, I think this book focused more on their inner daemons aka Chaos and the siren. It was especially interesting seeing the darker side of Xia come forth.
Another "couple" (and I use this term loosely) of particular interest was Tor aka Lord of Nightmares/ the Devil and a lower level being, Nyx. Although Nyx is less powerful than her counterparts and inexperienced in many ways, she is her own driving force with an important mission to nurture and protect a young girl and her crumbling village.
I know that Tor is an awful monster that has thus far done unspeakable things to Xia...but the dark romance girlie in me couldn't help but melt a little over his magnetism... especially as he exerted dominance over little ol Nyx 🫠🫠 I'm kinda hoping he'll have some sort of redemption arc eventually 😬
So what can be expected in this installment?
*A cliffhanger
*Everyone has an alter ego/ splits in their personalities and this particular book concentrates on their darker sides
*🌶️🌶️ A couple good spicy scenes
*Introduction to new leading characters
*Shadow play
*A twist near the end you won't see coming
The story of of Brooks/Chaos and Xia continues but a second, separate storyline featuring Persephone emerges.
Persephone's storyline takes place in a time of history and slowly progresses to present day where it entwines with our other characters.
Much like Pandora, I really enjoyed reading about Persephone and formed a good amount of sympathy for her along the way. Her development came as a bit of a shock in the end though...which I won't divulge here (to avoid spoilers)
As for Brooks and Xia, I think this book focused more on their inner daemons aka Chaos and the siren. It was especially interesting seeing the darker side of Xia come forth.
Another "couple" (and I use this term loosely) of particular interest was Tor aka Lord of Nightmares/ the Devil and a lower level being, Nyx. Although Nyx is less powerful than her counterparts and inexperienced in many ways, she is her own driving force with an important mission to nurture and protect a young girl and her crumbling village.
I know that Tor is an awful monster that has thus far done unspeakable things to Xia...but the dark romance girlie in me couldn't help but melt a little over his magnetism... especially as he exerted dominance over little ol Nyx 🫠🫠 I'm kinda hoping he'll have some sort of redemption arc eventually 😬
So what can be expected in this installment?
*A cliffhanger
*Everyone has an alter ego/ splits in their personalities and this particular book concentrates on their darker sides
*🌶️🌶️ A couple good spicy scenes
*Introduction to new leading characters
*Shadow play
*A twist near the end you won't see coming
May 17, 2024
What a rollercoaster, mind-blowing and I'm here for it.
Check the trigger warnings before you dive in!
Gosh where to start..
Let's start with the star couple: Brooks and Xia finally meet face to face, each one their own kind of messed up, they are good and bad for each other. Brooks is so into Xia that he wants to control everything to make sure she's as happy as she could be, which only comes across as controlling to Xia (can't blame her!). They both go from 0 to 1000 with no stops in the middle, he won't hurt her but I think she might 🤣..physically I mean, that Siren's got a temper.
Speaking of tempers..Nyx oh my words! I kind of like her but she is sooo over the top! She reminds me of the most obnoxious teenager that exists 🤣, ita good she has rediming qualities otherwise I would want to kill her too!
To avoid spoilers we understand now a bit more about the bad "guy" and in all fareness can't blame her, if life gives you lemons...
This one ended with a lot of loose strands and cliffhangers so cannot wait for the final one. Will definitely continue on with the series.
Check the trigger warnings before you dive in!
Gosh where to start..
Let's start with the star couple: Brooks and Xia finally meet face to face, each one their own kind of messed up, they are good and bad for each other. Brooks is so into Xia that he wants to control everything to make sure she's as happy as she could be, which only comes across as controlling to Xia (can't blame her!). They both go from 0 to 1000 with no stops in the middle, he won't hurt her but I think she might 🤣..physically I mean, that Siren's got a temper.
Speaking of tempers..Nyx oh my words! I kind of like her but she is sooo over the top! She reminds me of the most obnoxious teenager that exists 🤣, ita good she has rediming qualities otherwise I would want to kill her too!
To avoid spoilers we understand now a bit more about the bad "guy" and in all fareness can't blame her, if life gives you lemons...
This one ended with a lot of loose strands and cliffhangers so cannot wait for the final one. Will definitely continue on with the series.
June 2, 2024
So if you read my review of 𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒆, you might recall I said this may very well be my favorite series of the year so far. And guess what? IT IS. Darling brought it full force with this second book.
We pick up where the intense cliffhanger left us in book one (yes, read it first because you’ll be lost if you don’t) and we’re introduced to a new character, Nyx. She’s abrasive AF but protective of those she loves. And her connection to The Lord of Nightmares is gut wrenching but I can’t wait to see how their story unfolds.
The heat between Brooks and Xia intensifies (yes spice) as they navigate what being together truly means. Their internal demons are explored even more, and I am here for the chaos that ensues. Darling weaves a dark and twisted Persephone and Hades storyline like nothing I’ve read before. As always, check your triggers, but this dark and twisted tale is one that left me screaming for more.
Thank you Dawn Darling and RR Book Tours for the ARC and opportunity to be on this tour.
We pick up where the intense cliffhanger left us in book one (yes, read it first because you’ll be lost if you don’t) and we’re introduced to a new character, Nyx. She’s abrasive AF but protective of those she loves. And her connection to The Lord of Nightmares is gut wrenching but I can’t wait to see how their story unfolds.
The heat between Brooks and Xia intensifies (yes spice) as they navigate what being together truly means. Their internal demons are explored even more, and I am here for the chaos that ensues. Darling weaves a dark and twisted Persephone and Hades storyline like nothing I’ve read before. As always, check your triggers, but this dark and twisted tale is one that left me screaming for more.
Thank you Dawn Darling and RR Book Tours for the ARC and opportunity to be on this tour.
February 28, 2024
She did it again!!! She went above and beyond with One Little Nightmare and went even further up with One Saccharine Dream. This book is all about chaos and it is nothing but chaos but in the best way possible. Embrace your chaos!
I love Brooks and I loved reading how his relationship with Xia unfolded and how real it was after so long only in their heads. And all of their chaotic relationship problems.
Then there is Nix who is young, smart, and scrappy and has the weight of the world on her young strong shoulders. Then having to care for someone she is "attached" to when she doesn't even like him. I am most definitely with her, trust no one and show no weakness.
And then Persephone...I just couldn't with her at first. She was so meek and such a victim and omg did she suffer, but then like a phoenix she rose!
I loved every minute of this chaotic masterpiece.
I love Brooks and I loved reading how his relationship with Xia unfolded and how real it was after so long only in their heads. And all of their chaotic relationship problems.
Then there is Nix who is young, smart, and scrappy and has the weight of the world on her young strong shoulders. Then having to care for someone she is "attached" to when she doesn't even like him. I am most definitely with her, trust no one and show no weakness.
And then Persephone...I just couldn't with her at first. She was so meek and such a victim and omg did she suffer, but then like a phoenix she rose!
I loved every minute of this chaotic masterpiece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2024
"Don't look at me. I'm a mess."
"Yeah. But you're my mess. And I'll take you however you come. Whether it's whole or in pieces, you're mine."
I received this ARC after backing up the Kickstarter for the special editions, and I don't regret it one bit 🖤🖤🖤🖤
I've been loving this series. SO. MUCH. Xia and Brooks are such interesting characters that you just can't get enough about them 😫🖤
There are two different stories being told throughout the book, but everything comes together at the end and leaves you with your mouth open and waiting desperately for the next book! This series will be one of my all-time favorites. I just know it!
🖤 Book 2 in Series
🖤 Noncon
🖤 Multi POV
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 Morally Grey FMC
🖤 Dark Fantasy Romance
🖤 One Bed Trope
🖤 Shadow Daddy
🖤 Female Villain
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Ruthless Greek Gods
"Yeah. But you're my mess. And I'll take you however you come. Whether it's whole or in pieces, you're mine."
I received this ARC after backing up the Kickstarter for the special editions, and I don't regret it one bit 🖤🖤🖤🖤
I've been loving this series. SO. MUCH. Xia and Brooks are such interesting characters that you just can't get enough about them 😫🖤
There are two different stories being told throughout the book, but everything comes together at the end and leaves you with your mouth open and waiting desperately for the next book! This series will be one of my all-time favorites. I just know it!
🖤 Book 2 in Series
🖤 Noncon
🖤 Multi POV
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 Morally Grey FMC
🖤 Dark Fantasy Romance
🖤 One Bed Trope
🖤 Shadow Daddy
🖤 Female Villain
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Ruthless Greek Gods
May 27, 2024
This journey gripped me and never let go. This sequel surpasses the first book with a story that’s not only easier to follow but also masterfully conveyed in the darkest, most beautiful way imaginable.
The retelling of Persephone and Hades was a standout for me, exquisitely written, weaving brutality, chaos, and beauty into a narrative that felt both timeless and refreshingly original. The author’s skill in depicting Brooks’ inner battle with the Deathless God and Xia’s journey to balance her past and present selves was nothing short of mesmerizing.
However, I’d give it 4.75 stars instead of a full 5 if I could, as I’m still not convinced that Nyx’s character was necessary, and I found her more irritating than intriguing. Despite this, this book will remain a dark romance that is both stunning and unforgettable for me. Welcome to the Freakshow indeed!
The retelling of Persephone and Hades was a standout for me, exquisitely written, weaving brutality, chaos, and beauty into a narrative that felt both timeless and refreshingly original. The author’s skill in depicting Brooks’ inner battle with the Deathless God and Xia’s journey to balance her past and present selves was nothing short of mesmerizing.
However, I’d give it 4.75 stars instead of a full 5 if I could, as I’m still not convinced that Nyx’s character was necessary, and I found her more irritating than intriguing. Despite this, this book will remain a dark romance that is both stunning and unforgettable for me. Welcome to the Freakshow indeed!
February 3, 2025
✅️ Mythical Gods
✅️ Political Intrigue
✅️ Hades side story
✅️ Female Rage
✅️ Betrayal
✅️ Mystery
✅️ Poverty
✅️Revenge
✅️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✅️ Manipulation
🌶
🔥 medium
The book follows Brooks (Gof of Chaos) and Xia (Siren) on their journey, along with Nikki, their reluctant comrade. But there is also a side story for Hades that makes sense towards the end.
While I am still enjoying this series, this book dragged a bit while they were at the village. I also found Nikkis' internal monologue was a bit repetative.
But that aside, this series still has me intrigued. It's full of betrayal and plot twists, with the ending finishing on a cliffhanger I didn't see coming.
Can't wait to see what happens next.
✅️ Political Intrigue
✅️ Hades side story
✅️ Female Rage
✅️ Betrayal
✅️ Mystery
✅️ Poverty
✅️Revenge
✅️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
✅️ Manipulation
🌶
🔥 medium
The book follows Brooks (Gof of Chaos) and Xia (Siren) on their journey, along with Nikki, their reluctant comrade. But there is also a side story for Hades that makes sense towards the end.
While I am still enjoying this series, this book dragged a bit while they were at the village. I also found Nikkis' internal monologue was a bit repetative.
But that aside, this series still has me intrigued. It's full of betrayal and plot twists, with the ending finishing on a cliffhanger I didn't see coming.
Can't wait to see what happens next.
July 22, 2025
This was such a flop. I wanted to like it so bad cuase I loved book one.
I’m not one to pick apart a book bc of little details but there were soooo many plot holes and 180 switches in the character’s personalities. And why are we fading sexy time to black when everything else was quite descriptive???? Like I feel as if the chapter was freaking taken out. GIVE IT TO ME. The KU version I downloaded also said ARC on a cover page but this book was published over a year ago, so I’m not sure what version I just read. Plenty of typos for this to be an ARC, but why would KU be selling ARCs? Am I the only one noticing this shit? AND the author’s Instagram talks about being finished with this series…. what the FUCK is going on
I’m not one to pick apart a book bc of little details but there were soooo many plot holes and 180 switches in the character’s personalities. And why are we fading sexy time to black when everything else was quite descriptive???? Like I feel as if the chapter was freaking taken out. GIVE IT TO ME. The KU version I downloaded also said ARC on a cover page but this book was published over a year ago, so I’m not sure what version I just read. Plenty of typos for this to be an ARC, but why would KU be selling ARCs? Am I the only one noticing this shit? AND the author’s Instagram talks about being finished with this series…. what the FUCK is going on
September 23, 2025
You know when you read the same word over and over throughout and it just starts to make you cringe and it looses its meaning? Yeah... That's what the word "guttural" did for me. Not a fan of that word now. As far as the rest of the book, it was definitely more sadistic than I anticipated, even with the Content Warning in the beginning which I did appreciate. The story is encapsulating and really draws you into the plot of the book. It's also a continuance from the first book but completely different in every way except the characters. The only thing I didn't really like (beside the use of that word) is that she uses the names of Greek Mythology and it's THEM but not their story and no real connections to each other.
May 28, 2024
This was such a fantastic read, a dark, twisted greek mythology.
This is one of them books you are going to want to read slowly, so as not to miss anything, it was like we were getting two stories at once.
The author did a fantastic job at intertwining them together.
The characters were very intriguing. The way the author has portrayed each character, you can help love them all, yes! I even found myself sympathizing with the bad guys.
I especially loved Brooks, and his battle with inner darkness, their interactions, and batter was spot on.
But that ending! Seriously!
Now it is a tortured wait until book 3.
This is one of them books you are going to want to read slowly, so as not to miss anything, it was like we were getting two stories at once.
The author did a fantastic job at intertwining them together.
The characters were very intriguing. The way the author has portrayed each character, you can help love them all, yes! I even found myself sympathizing with the bad guys.
I especially loved Brooks, and his battle with inner darkness, their interactions, and batter was spot on.
But that ending! Seriously!
Now it is a tortured wait until book 3.
May 31, 2024
Daaaaamn that ending though!👏🏼 Mel is evil and I know you’re supposed to hate her but I just don’t. That level of vengeance is phenomenal. Just so epic. I couldn’t help but cheer her on that last paragraph. I get wanting to kill the fates and got damn what she did with Hades body was epic af but I’m still trying to figure out what she wants with Brooks and Xia other than power. I mean I guess that could be it. I guess we shall see. The book was really good. For a minute there though I was thinking I might like the first one more but then I read the epilogue and ya this one’s my favorite out of the two. Can’t wait for the next one to see how everything plays out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.75
One Saccharine Dream was an amazing sequel to One Little Nightmare. I loved learning more about Brooks and Xia. I truly felt for them for all the tragic circumstances they endured. I also loved learning the horrific backstory of Persephone. She truly dealt with sooooooooo much sh!t she didn’t deserve. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Nyx straight out of the gate; however, I found myself warming up to her after we learned more of her past. I did find Xia to be a bit annoying at times, but her past allowed me to see why she reacted how she did in certain situations. Overall, I NEED book three ASAP!
**Check TW if needed!**
🌶️.75
One Saccharine Dream was an amazing sequel to One Little Nightmare. I loved learning more about Brooks and Xia. I truly felt for them for all the tragic circumstances they endured. I also loved learning the horrific backstory of Persephone. She truly dealt with sooooooooo much sh!t she didn’t deserve. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Nyx straight out of the gate; however, I found myself warming up to her after we learned more of her past. I did find Xia to be a bit annoying at times, but her past allowed me to see why she reacted how she did in certain situations. Overall, I NEED book three ASAP!
**Check TW if needed!**
March 31, 2024
This continues where One Little Nightmare left off and it definitely has the same dark nightmarish vibes that book 1 had. It really does read like a fever dream and is unlike any other story that I've read before. Brooks/Chaos are looking to reunite with Xia who is dealing with her own inner demon/Siren. The addition of NYX was fun to read and I think she actually might be one of my favorite character. I look forward to seeing how the relationship between her and Tor play out. Persephone was also introduced and she is bent on wreaking havoc. The ending had me wanting the next and possibly final book in this strange yet addicting series.
April 13, 2024
Whoa!!
Plot 5⭐️ Spice 2🌶️
The gods are not kind, you got that right! We pick up right where One Little Nightmare ended. I love Xia and her character growth was tear jerkingly phenomenal, Brooks aka Chaos just keeps getting hotter and more badass. We get introduced to the goddess Nyx in this book as well as seeing bits and pieces of Hades and Narcissus. Really interesting truths and embellishments to the story of Persephone…and that ending revelation, OMG!!! I did not see that coming!! Here’s hoping book 3 will be out soon!!
Plot 5⭐️ Spice 2🌶️
The gods are not kind, you got that right! We pick up right where One Little Nightmare ended. I love Xia and her character growth was tear jerkingly phenomenal, Brooks aka Chaos just keeps getting hotter and more badass. We get introduced to the goddess Nyx in this book as well as seeing bits and pieces of Hades and Narcissus. Really interesting truths and embellishments to the story of Persephone…and that ending revelation, OMG!!! I did not see that coming!! Here’s hoping book 3 will be out soon!!
June 1, 2024
“I am the Father of Darkness, the Void Between the Stars, Creator of your Gods, and the Eater of Souls. I am Chaos, the Deathless God, and I will find you.”
Ahhh!! The 2nd book in Of Gods and Monsters series and it did NOT disappoint! This series continues to keep me hooked from page one, and I am just blow away by Dawn Darlings writing style and story lines! Delicious and morally grey MMC, Moray grey FMC, and touch her and 💀 vibes. Emotionally gripping and captivated by these characters! This series needs to be at the TOP of your TBR!
A MUST READ series for dark romance readers
Ahhh!! The 2nd book in Of Gods and Monsters series and it did NOT disappoint! This series continues to keep me hooked from page one, and I am just blow away by Dawn Darlings writing style and story lines! Delicious and morally grey MMC, Moray grey FMC, and touch her and 💀 vibes. Emotionally gripping and captivated by these characters! This series needs to be at the TOP of your TBR!
A MUST READ series for dark romance readers
April 15, 2024
3.75⭐️ 1.5 🌶 Why did I think this was a duet??? Anyway... The character development in this was really good. I loved Nyx and her IDGAF attitude. I think there is a lot we do not know about her. You get to see Brooks and Xia as they navigate the struggles of a relationship between two strong-willed beings. This book filled in a lot of information that I am assuming will Amp up the action for book 3.
March 19, 2025
4.5/5
This book was good no doubt. I mostly blame my reading slump for hitting right in the middle of this for me not enjoying it as much as I should've. I loved the first book but it felt like I was pushing myself through this one. I definitely liked it, just not as much as the first one.
I will be waiting for the third book and trying again just because I don't think this one got a fair shot with my reading slump. Still good but could've used more of my own attention.
This book was good no doubt. I mostly blame my reading slump for hitting right in the middle of this for me not enjoying it as much as I should've. I loved the first book but it felt like I was pushing myself through this one. I definitely liked it, just not as much as the first one.
I will be waiting for the third book and trying again just because I don't think this one got a fair shot with my reading slump. Still good but could've used more of my own attention.
February 15, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! I cannot say enough good things! You have a grumpy sunshine MMC with a dark passenger and some bada** FMCs. Multiple POVs and spice! Dawn does a fantastic job with this retelling! There's action and romance and I need book 3 after that epilogue! And maybe a hug...yes a hug with Book 3!😂
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