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Presence
It's always watching...
This is not a romance story.
It's not one of those that you want to tell you friends and family over dinner table.
This one is scary.
It's also very, very real.
By the end of it you might disagree with me on many matters. You might resent me. Hell, you might even hate me. But know this... I am happy. Happier than I've ever been.
And I can tell you just how I got here.
The choice to hear me out is yours.
I won't force you to anything.
Just don't expect fairy tales, because there are none here.
At least I warned you.
Claire
This is not a romance story.
It's not one of those that you want to tell you friends and family over dinner table.
This one is scary.
It's also very, very real.
By the end of it you might disagree with me on many matters. You might resent me. Hell, you might even hate me. But know this... I am happy. Happier than I've ever been.
And I can tell you just how I got here.
The choice to hear me out is yours.
I won't force you to anything.
Just don't expect fairy tales, because there are none here.
At least I warned you.
Yours Truly,
Claire
Author's Note: Presence is a paranormal dark romance with themes and situations that may be triggering to some. CWs will appear on author's website (at some point).
Unknown Binding
Published June 1, 2024
133 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Pen Mucching
9 books61 followersIf I were a quote, I’d probably fall somewhere between “Ars longa, vita brevis” and “I couldn’t help but wonder... was I addicted to the drama? Or was I just hopelessly romantic?”
Ideally, something right in the middle—ambitious, a little chaotic, and deeply in my feelings.
I’m someone constantly caught between daydreaming, trying to improve at everything I do, and being mildly awkward (online and off). If you tell me you love my stories, I probably won’t know what to say—even though I’ll be absolutely thrilled inside.
Genre-wise, I go wherever inspiration takes me: Reverse Harem, dark romance, horror, standalones, series—I love exploring it all. If it makes me feel something, I want to write it.
So maybe, just maybe, there’s a story on my backlist with your name on it. And if it’s not there yet, chances are it’s brewing in my head.
Come hang out in my Facebook group, The Hideout, or check out my website for updates, new releases, and whatever weird little world I’m building next.
**I use this account occasionally and tend to update the books I've read in bulk**
Ideally, something right in the middle—ambitious, a little chaotic, and deeply in my feelings.
I’m someone constantly caught between daydreaming, trying to improve at everything I do, and being mildly awkward (online and off). If you tell me you love my stories, I probably won’t know what to say—even though I’ll be absolutely thrilled inside.
Genre-wise, I go wherever inspiration takes me: Reverse Harem, dark romance, horror, standalones, series—I love exploring it all. If it makes me feel something, I want to write it.
So maybe, just maybe, there’s a story on my backlist with your name on it. And if it’s not there yet, chances are it’s brewing in my head.
Come hang out in my Facebook group, The Hideout, or check out my website for updates, new releases, and whatever weird little world I’m building next.
**I use this account occasionally and tend to update the books I've read in bulk**
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 10, 2024
The ending is a bit twisted, and I love that.
The story is decent, but needs a pass through a good editor. There are typos, mistakes, and I believe the tension and horror aspect would have been more intense if it had been tightened up with edited out repetitiveness.
The story is decent, but needs a pass through a good editor. There are typos, mistakes, and I believe the tension and horror aspect would have been more intense if it had been tightened up with edited out repetitiveness.
August 30, 2024
What the hell did I just read? Put your seat belt on because it's going to be a wild ride! This book truly messed with my mind!😳
September 10, 2024
I have no idea where to start with this one 🤔 If you like a little paranormal, paranoia and paralysis, throw in a tad of witchiness, insomnia and a demon then this is the book for you.
It does go into depth with how our FMC deals with her insomnia and the whole story develops to a dark place in more ways than you imagine. There is spice, again some of it is different given it’s a paranormal read (just leave that there and unless you read it, your imagination can come up with scenarios 🤭) 🌶️🔪🩸🖤
I enjoyed it because it was a diverse read 😈
It does go into depth with how our FMC deals with her insomnia and the whole story develops to a dark place in more ways than you imagine. There is spice, again some of it is different given it’s a paranormal read (just leave that there and unless you read it, your imagination can come up with scenarios 🤭) 🌶️🔪🩸🖤
I enjoyed it because it was a diverse read 😈
August 11, 2024
This book is like if Apex Twin's song, "Come to Daddy," was a book--but also the "Daddy" part was supposed to be taken as sexual. Yep. That's exactly what this book is. For those of you who are not familiar with the late 90s electronic drill 'n bass song, I'll probably have to do a little better.
For some reason, I was thinking this book was not going to be an HEA, so when it was, I was like, "Aw, I was looking forward to something dark and different." Well, it was different. I did go back and reread the blurb. It promises an HEA--just an "nontraditional" one. I suppose it was, even though it had every element of a regular HEA. It's just that our leading lady did not make the traditional choices we think she would have. Hey, good for her. Whatever floats your boat?
I was a bit disappointed, though. Not because the book was bad. It was a good read. I am happy that I picked it up, though there were a surprising amount of typos, which I usually don't talk about. I appears the author is an indie who has put out a couple of books very quickly. Sometimes editing can be unaffordable for new authors, which is why I usually don't say anything. However, I'd suggest slowing down the rapid publishing and taking a few extra months to polish future books. That would make ALL the difference in grammar and repetition. This did not affect the amount of stars for my review or overall impression. More of a note.
So anyhow, I'm going to have to switch to spoiler time because I want to talk about a few of the things that the author (and all authors) should tread carefully on, but in doing so would give away a lot. Also, expect some triggering topics as I discuss this.
So, you can see why I was kind of "'hmmm" about the story. In a way, it was hard to rate because I sort of wanted to give it a five but then also was not pleased with some of the unintentional issues that happened. As a horror romance story, it took a lot of risks, and I appreciated that. I think this author has a lot of potential, which is why I took some extra time on this review. The spicy scenes were like Carolina Reaper hot. Holy cow. But be mindful that there's triggers with it as well. Honestly, the whole book is one big trigger warning. lol Anyhow, I think that's it. Now, I gotta go play that song, ya'll.
For some reason, I was thinking this book was not going to be an HEA, so when it was, I was like, "Aw, I was looking forward to something dark and different." Well, it was different. I did go back and reread the blurb. It promises an HEA--just an "nontraditional" one. I suppose it was, even though it had every element of a regular HEA. It's just that our leading lady did not make the traditional choices we think she would have. Hey, good for her. Whatever floats your boat?
I was a bit disappointed, though. Not because the book was bad. It was a good read. I am happy that I picked it up, though there were a surprising amount of typos, which I usually don't talk about. I appears the author is an indie who has put out a couple of books very quickly. Sometimes editing can be unaffordable for new authors, which is why I usually don't say anything. However, I'd suggest slowing down the rapid publishing and taking a few extra months to polish future books. That would make ALL the difference in grammar and repetition. This did not affect the amount of stars for my review or overall impression. More of a note.
So anyhow, I'm going to have to switch to spoiler time because I want to talk about a few of the things that the author (and all authors) should tread carefully on, but in doing so would give away a lot. Also, expect some triggering topics as I discuss this.
So, you can see why I was kind of "'hmmm" about the story. In a way, it was hard to rate because I sort of wanted to give it a five but then also was not pleased with some of the unintentional issues that happened. As a horror romance story, it took a lot of risks, and I appreciated that. I think this author has a lot of potential, which is why I took some extra time on this review. The spicy scenes were like Carolina Reaper hot. Holy cow. But be mindful that there's triggers with it as well. Honestly, the whole book is one big trigger warning. lol Anyhow, I think that's it. Now, I gotta go play that song, ya'll.
September 15, 2024
“Yes, Little Soul,” he continues. “Let yourself feel everything.”
//
I am so serious when I say this, but this was genuinely one of my favorite reads of the year. Without question, I will be thinking of Claire and Echo for weeks now. Gods. It might’ve taken a little minute before I understood what was going on in this book, but as soon as the threads started to cone together, I could only sit here, gobsmacked.
And that's not even to touch on the spicy scenes in this book, because my gods. Let me put it like this: there were *multiple* times when I was reading this book, and would have to get pulled away for some reason, and the way I felt like I'd just come out of a pool filled with the essence of this book, and I was gasping for breath?? I need to know what Pen Mucching put in this book because I know it wasn't legal. In fact, she is immediately going on my favorite authors list because of Prescence. I wholeheartedly believe that she is a horror romance author to watch for after reading this book, if you were hesitating: don't. Get on this train *now*.
I need this book to blow up with the girls. I need this book on my shelf. I need this book engraved on my temporal lobe, so that I will remember it in vivid detail forevermore.
5 stars ✨️
//
Maybe we’re connected now. I am in him, and he’s in me. Woven together like fabric.
//
I am so serious when I say this, but this was genuinely one of my favorite reads of the year. Without question, I will be thinking of Claire and Echo for weeks now. Gods. It might’ve taken a little minute before I understood what was going on in this book, but as soon as the threads started to cone together, I could only sit here, gobsmacked.
And that's not even to touch on the spicy scenes in this book, because my gods. Let me put it like this: there were *multiple* times when I was reading this book, and would have to get pulled away for some reason, and the way I felt like I'd just come out of a pool filled with the essence of this book, and I was gasping for breath?? I need to know what Pen Mucching put in this book because I know it wasn't legal. In fact, she is immediately going on my favorite authors list because of Prescence. I wholeheartedly believe that she is a horror romance author to watch for after reading this book, if you were hesitating: don't. Get on this train *now*.
I need this book to blow up with the girls. I need this book on my shelf. I need this book engraved on my temporal lobe, so that I will remember it in vivid detail forevermore.
5 stars ✨️
//
Maybe we’re connected now. I am in him, and he’s in me. Woven together like fabric.
January 1, 2026
The entire book kept me guessing, I never had any idea what was going to happen. However, I would've given it 5 stars but the ending left me disappointed. If you want Paranormal/Horror/Dark Romance wrapped in a silky black bow, this is it.
July 1, 2024
ok
This book was a TON of inner dialogue that at times felt like it dragged. I put it down many times out of boredom. I knew where the story was going from the start but getting there took forever. The steamy times were good. Not wild or crazy. The horror was missing it’s not bloody or gory so if that offends you then this book is ok for you. It was more suspense and fear type of scare but if you already knew what was gonna happen then it wasn’t achieving that. In the end it wasn’t what the blurb promised it was more paranormal which nothing wrong with that but I was expecting a horror book and it wasn’t. But it’s a decent read.
This book was a TON of inner dialogue that at times felt like it dragged. I put it down many times out of boredom. I knew where the story was going from the start but getting there took forever. The steamy times were good. Not wild or crazy. The horror was missing it’s not bloody or gory so if that offends you then this book is ok for you. It was more suspense and fear type of scare but if you already knew what was gonna happen then it wasn’t achieving that. In the end it wasn’t what the blurb promised it was more paranormal which nothing wrong with that but I was expecting a horror book and it wasn’t. But it’s a decent read.
January 8, 2025
The first 20% was intriguing enough for me, but the rest was a miss. I wasn't really sold with the horror content like I was expecting, and it turns out to be more of romance with minor horror content, in my opinion.
Thank you, author, for the e-arc opportunity.
Thank you, author, for the e-arc opportunity.
August 24, 2024
Ummmmm. What did I just read. I can’t say I hated it cause I finished it but I can’t say I liked it either.
July 1, 2024
It's been awhile since I read a story that had me thinking "WTF did I just read" this book toed the lines of mental health and it's correlation to demonic possession. Heed the TW. This book delves into insomnia, mental illness, hallucinations, dreamscape, demonic possession and a multitude of other things.
Claire is the FMC who comes from a family of mental illness. Although the odds were against her, she was able to build a successful web design company until she found it hard to cope with life. For over a year she had been battling insomnia but refused to seek medical attention. Claire's BFF Camilla really wanted to help Claire and thought that she was doing the right thing when she tried to summon a Guardian to watch over Claire so so could get a good night's sleep.
Claire found the answers to her prayers in Echo. The guardian who was summoned to protect Claire through her dreams. After reading this book it makes me so thankful that I have a praying family that taught me growing up that good and evil forces exists in this world and are amongst us everyday. When you feel the hair raise and goosebumps all over there just maybe a reason for that. When you sleep at night and find yourself paralyzed with unexplainable fear; there's a reason for that.
Claire's ordeal was harrowing and it's no surprise she found peace and serenity with Echo within her dreamscape but a lost soul like Claire is easily the type to fall under sinister influences without realizing its danger until it's too late. The things she experienced: hallucinations, sleep paralysis, whispers and sinister voices kept her wondering what was real and what was her imagination.
Growing up I was also taught to seek answers or clarity. Claire assumed she was doing that in Echo's presence but is he truly the guardian she needs to protect her?
This book is a chilling story of just how close we stranded the fence between life and death. How there are forces at play surrounding us daily seeking a way to destroy and if we're not careful devour us.
Claire's story is not too far from the realm of human existence. Many people deal with inner demons literally and in most cases physically. There are many people who would rather embrace that darkness within and accept a fate far less than life itself.
Claire is the FMC who comes from a family of mental illness. Although the odds were against her, she was able to build a successful web design company until she found it hard to cope with life. For over a year she had been battling insomnia but refused to seek medical attention. Claire's BFF Camilla really wanted to help Claire and thought that she was doing the right thing when she tried to summon a Guardian to watch over Claire so so could get a good night's sleep.
Claire found the answers to her prayers in Echo. The guardian who was summoned to protect Claire through her dreams. After reading this book it makes me so thankful that I have a praying family that taught me growing up that good and evil forces exists in this world and are amongst us everyday. When you feel the hair raise and goosebumps all over there just maybe a reason for that. When you sleep at night and find yourself paralyzed with unexplainable fear; there's a reason for that.
Claire's ordeal was harrowing and it's no surprise she found peace and serenity with Echo within her dreamscape but a lost soul like Claire is easily the type to fall under sinister influences without realizing its danger until it's too late. The things she experienced: hallucinations, sleep paralysis, whispers and sinister voices kept her wondering what was real and what was her imagination.
Growing up I was also taught to seek answers or clarity. Claire assumed she was doing that in Echo's presence but is he truly the guardian she needs to protect her?
This book is a chilling story of just how close we stranded the fence between life and death. How there are forces at play surrounding us daily seeking a way to destroy and if we're not careful devour us.
Claire's story is not too far from the realm of human existence. Many people deal with inner demons literally and in most cases physically. There are many people who would rather embrace that darkness within and accept a fate far less than life itself.
June 26, 2024
Final rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Horror 👻👻👻👻
SPICY 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
Do you want a Shadow daddy? Some next level dark smut? Paranormal, ghost vibe? Parts that make you jump because you heard a sound IRL? AND a HEA? Look no further.
Plot 5/5
Honestly this book had so much potential and I absolutely am in love with it. This will 100% make it into a physical copy on my shelf. It's spooky, it's spicy, it's adventurous. *Chefs kiss*. My only regret it not reading this one sooner
Writing quality& nonrepetitive 5/5
Descriptive, yet not too wordy. No point where as a reader I felt annoyed by the characters. There were a few points in the spicy scenes that I felt like it wasn't quite up to par with some other books I have read, but that's mostly due to my own "icks" not the author's fault.
Characters 4/5
The characters were built up perfectly for the most part. I wish I got more of Cam and Raven and then some more depth into Mom. Overall still wonderful!
Ending 4/5
BOOOOOY thems is fighting words. The ending leaves you craving more to know what happens next, yet also still wrapped up enough that if there is no follow up book it wouldn't be wildly crazy cliffhanger. I feel like some part could have definitely been broadened out to give more understanding but at the same time it could have the potential to end up too wordy. In conclusion it's a solid ending!
Backstory/world building 4/5
The world building was amazing every new step in this adventure was so crystal clear in my head I felt like I was Claire. However the backstory lacked just enough to leave me with questions.
would I recommend? YES
Horror 👻👻👻👻
SPICY 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥 🔥
Do you want a Shadow daddy? Some next level dark smut? Paranormal, ghost vibe? Parts that make you jump because you heard a sound IRL? AND a HEA? Look no further.
Plot 5/5
Honestly this book had so much potential and I absolutely am in love with it. This will 100% make it into a physical copy on my shelf. It's spooky, it's spicy, it's adventurous. *Chefs kiss*. My only regret it not reading this one sooner
Writing quality& nonrepetitive 5/5
Descriptive, yet not too wordy. No point where as a reader I felt annoyed by the characters. There were a few points in the spicy scenes that I felt like it wasn't quite up to par with some other books I have read, but that's mostly due to my own "icks" not the author's fault.
Characters 4/5
The characters were built up perfectly for the most part. I wish I got more of Cam and Raven and then some more depth into Mom. Overall still wonderful!
Ending 4/5
BOOOOOY thems is fighting words. The ending leaves you craving more to know what happens next, yet also still wrapped up enough that if there is no follow up book it wouldn't be wildly crazy cliffhanger. I feel like some part could have definitely been broadened out to give more understanding but at the same time it could have the potential to end up too wordy. In conclusion it's a solid ending!
Backstory/world building 4/5
The world building was amazing every new step in this adventure was so crystal clear in my head I felt like I was Claire. However the backstory lacked just enough to leave me with questions.
would I recommend? YES
December 27, 2024
🧠 4
✨️ 4
🌶 2.5 - 3
"You call the darkness in your heart a flaw. I call it a scar that makes you beautiful.”
I came across an Ad for this book while scrolling FB, and I added it to my TBR, but then I was reading some reviews and was like nah, I'm definitely starting this now!
This was so good and I need to find more books like it ASAP!
The mantra of this book was "is she dreaming or not" 🤣 it was a mindfvck for sure!
"Did I just… have a dream within a dream… within a fvcking dream?"
Some of the descriptions/phrases weren't my favorite, and some things were a little predictable but I honestly didn't mind overlooking them because I was so interested in the story!
It was pretty much an insta-lust situation. The spice starts pretty early on and is consistent throughout.
Echo was injured at one point during the story and the only way for her to help heal him he has to feed off of her (physically, spiritually & emotionally).
How does she do that you ask...by her riding his face! 🔥
" He might be my guardian spirit, but he’s no angel. There’s a raw, edgy quality to him. Sometimes, I think he likes to torture me a little. Likes to see me cry. "
Horror Romance
Psychological Suspense
Dreamscape
Shadow Daddy
Insomnia
Insanity
So if any of what I said interests you, and you want a fun, but yet a mindfvck read, definitely go check out this book!
" There’s another side to fear that most people don’t understand. Fear can also intensify experiences. "
✨️ 4
🌶 2.5 - 3
"You call the darkness in your heart a flaw. I call it a scar that makes you beautiful.”
I came across an Ad for this book while scrolling FB, and I added it to my TBR, but then I was reading some reviews and was like nah, I'm definitely starting this now!
This was so good and I need to find more books like it ASAP!
The mantra of this book was "is she dreaming or not" 🤣 it was a mindfvck for sure!
"Did I just… have a dream within a dream… within a fvcking dream?"
Some of the descriptions/phrases weren't my favorite, and some things were a little predictable but I honestly didn't mind overlooking them because I was so interested in the story!
It was pretty much an insta-lust situation. The spice starts pretty early on and is consistent throughout.
Echo was injured at one point during the story and the only way for her to help heal him he has to feed off of her (physically, spiritually & emotionally).
How does she do that you ask...by her riding his face! 🔥
" He might be my guardian spirit, but he’s no angel. There’s a raw, edgy quality to him. Sometimes, I think he likes to torture me a little. Likes to see me cry. "
Horror Romance
Psychological Suspense
Dreamscape
Shadow Daddy
Insomnia
Insanity
So if any of what I said interests you, and you want a fun, but yet a mindfvck read, definitely go check out this book!
" There’s another side to fear that most people don’t understand. Fear can also intensify experiences. "
June 23, 2024
This is one of those books that leave you sitting there thinking “what did I just read”. This is a dark horror “romance”. This is a very dark read so proceed with caution and check your trigger warnings. This is a story involving demonic possession, dreamscapes, insomnia and haunting. Claire is an extreme insomniac with some mental health issues. The way the author can spin words and make you feel everything the FMC is feeling is out of this world. At one point I had to stop reading at night because I felt a little haunted myself. If you enjoy all things creepy and paranormal then this will most likely be the book for you. I wasn’t a huge fan of the ending, but overall this was a great read. Definitely will have you thinking “wtf” several times. The spice level is pretty high for a demonic possession book. I would definitely recommend this book- only to those who enjoy all things dark, spooky and haunting.
June 22, 2024
First I have to start out with if you are not into horror, do not read this book.
The author makes it well known up front, multiple times, that this is a very dark book and if you have any of the listed triggers (can be found on authors website) do not read.
I’ve been looking for a book that was centered around astral projection and I finally found that. The book took a minute to kick off, for me personally, but once it did it flew. Literally.
Clair is a traumatized woman who has issues with insomnia. One night her and her best friend try something new that actually helps Clair sleep soundly for the first time in a year. That’s when she meets Echo. Once she meets him, her whole world is flipped upside down.
“You call the darkness in your heart a flaw. I call it a scar that makes you beautiful.”
The author makes it well known up front, multiple times, that this is a very dark book and if you have any of the listed triggers (can be found on authors website) do not read.
I’ve been looking for a book that was centered around astral projection and I finally found that. The book took a minute to kick off, for me personally, but once it did it flew. Literally.
Clair is a traumatized woman who has issues with insomnia. One night her and her best friend try something new that actually helps Clair sleep soundly for the first time in a year. That’s when she meets Echo. Once she meets him, her whole world is flipped upside down.
“You call the darkness in your heart a flaw. I call it a scar that makes you beautiful.”
July 12, 2024
Pen Mucching's "Presence" is a departure from her usual fare, and I am absolutely here for it. This is not your typical read—it's dark, intense, and unapologetic. Mucching herself warns us that this is not a romance story, nor is it one you’ll want to discuss over dinner with friends and family. It's scary, raw, and it digs deep into the human psyche.
Mucching's writing grips you and refuses to let go, challenging you to confront uncomfortable truths and leaving you haunted long after you've turned the last page. "Presence" is a bold, fearless piece of literature that will provoke, disturb, and ultimately make you reflect on the darker corners of life.
If you're looking for a story that pushes boundaries and dares to be different, "Presence" is the book for you. But heed the warning—this is not a fairy tale, and it's not for the faint-hearted.
Mucching's writing grips you and refuses to let go, challenging you to confront uncomfortable truths and leaving you haunted long after you've turned the last page. "Presence" is a bold, fearless piece of literature that will provoke, disturb, and ultimately make you reflect on the darker corners of life.
If you're looking for a story that pushes boundaries and dares to be different, "Presence" is the book for you. But heed the warning—this is not a fairy tale, and it's not for the faint-hearted.
July 24, 2024
I want to start with this was a great read! While the majority of the focus is in the dreamscape I do wish we had gotten a little more of Claire's real life. I don't think there was enough of a background or interaction between Camilla and Claire to really feel connected with Camilla or to appreciate their relationship. However Camilla isn't really a main character but with out that it was hard to see why Claire held onto the real world at all.
That aside, the character build between Claire and Echo was amazing. There's always an undertone of something being wrong. I love to love the villain in a story and this gave me that. The ending isn't what you think it will be and for that I am forever grateful! Now if I could only find my own Echo! hee hee
The story is beautifully written, we thought out and I will def. re-read this in the future!
That aside, the character build between Claire and Echo was amazing. There's always an undertone of something being wrong. I love to love the villain in a story and this gave me that. The ending isn't what you think it will be and for that I am forever grateful! Now if I could only find my own Echo! hee hee
The story is beautifully written, we thought out and I will def. re-read this in the future!
December 6, 2024
This is a difficult book to review. Mainly because the pacing is all over the pace. The first 20% feels like a great spooky creepy vibe. It does a good job of unsettling you and keeping you on your toes. The writing really shines when the author is going for macabre vibes. Then the book tries to slide into the romance area and thats where it hit a snag. The audience can deduce rifht away that alls not right with Echo so watching the FMCs actions can feel almost painful in a "please get with it"ness way. So the overall plot drags. It feels like an erotic women's lit and tgen the last 20-30% finally picks up and the romance develops better. Echo not having any pov chapters was a travesty. Im now wishing this was in a part a part b scenario where she gets part a creepy gothic side but then E ho hits us at part b. Oh wells it is what it is
July 1, 2024
Another amazing book from the author....while it was different from the other books I have read, I still really enjoyed the experience. It was brilliantly written, the plot was well executed, and the characters were developed well. Oooo and the spice...yep, the spice hit just the right notes!
This book was so easy to get lost in. It was almost as though I could feel exactly how Claire did, which just reiterates how good of a writer this author is. You get all this emotion from the writing alone... a few times, I felt like my heart was racing right out of my chest. I'm not too sure how I feel about Echo....like - totally 180 at one point, and I'm not really sure I ever got back to liking him. Which is unual for me with romance novels but then not a bad thing either. I love the way that the story ended... leaves enough of a carrot dangling for another book, maybe?
Would recommend!
This book was so easy to get lost in. It was almost as though I could feel exactly how Claire did, which just reiterates how good of a writer this author is. You get all this emotion from the writing alone... a few times, I felt like my heart was racing right out of my chest. I'm not too sure how I feel about Echo....like - totally 180 at one point, and I'm not really sure I ever got back to liking him. Which is unual for me with romance novels but then not a bad thing either. I love the way that the story ended... leaves enough of a carrot dangling for another book, maybe?
Would recommend!
October 7, 2024
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Insomniac × Shadow Daddy
If you're intrigued by the slow unraveling of a woman on the edge, Presence is a must-read.
Claire meets Echo, the man of her dreams—literally. In her dreams, he's everything she desires: thoughtful, caring, attuned to her needs, and yes, incredible in bed (or in water, grass, even while flying). He's handsome and perfect. But as Claire enjoys her dream world, her real-life starts to crumble. A dark, haunting presence looms, threatening to destroy her reality.
The story brilliantly explores themes that could be seen as addiction, drawing fascinating parallels between Claire’s toxic relationship with Echo and the unhealthy dependencies we sometimes develop as an escape from real-life struggles.
The spicy scenes are vividly descriptive, not just in the physicality but in the atmosphere they create. The world-building is exceptional, adding depth to the story, and I’d happily read this again!
Characters: 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Insomniac × Shadow Daddy
If you're intrigued by the slow unraveling of a woman on the edge, Presence is a must-read.
Claire meets Echo, the man of her dreams—literally. In her dreams, he's everything she desires: thoughtful, caring, attuned to her needs, and yes, incredible in bed (or in water, grass, even while flying). He's handsome and perfect. But as Claire enjoys her dream world, her real-life starts to crumble. A dark, haunting presence looms, threatening to destroy her reality.
The story brilliantly explores themes that could be seen as addiction, drawing fascinating parallels between Claire’s toxic relationship with Echo and the unhealthy dependencies we sometimes develop as an escape from real-life struggles.
The spicy scenes are vividly descriptive, not just in the physicality but in the atmosphere they create. The world-building is exceptional, adding depth to the story, and I’d happily read this again!
June 12, 2024
I am still new to this authors writing and to paranormal/ Horror stories … but once I started reading this story I couldn’t put it down. I was so confused till about 50% through the book and that’s when I fully started to love this story. It was dark, had plenty of spice and it was perfect. I really loved the paranormal aspect to it all. That ending got me tho. I didn’t want it to end, and now that it has I really wanna beg for more. I loved Echo and Claire and would love to see more of them living into the new world together as well as more of Camilla! Claire became a whole new person and I was here for every bit of it. This was such a good story!!
July 1, 2024
Presence by Pen Mucching is a fantastic read!
I really loves this paranormal horror romance. I couldn't make myself put it down I was hooked from page one. Run don't walk to add this to your TBR! This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm hooked! Can't wait to get my hands on more of her books!! She did a great job writing the story and with the characters. I didn't love the ending but it was still good. I'm really hoping for a book two.
This book has a mix of mystery/suspense, possession, paranormal, romance all mixed in one.
Please look up the trigger warnings if they may effect you
I really loves this paranormal horror romance. I couldn't make myself put it down I was hooked from page one. Run don't walk to add this to your TBR! This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm hooked! Can't wait to get my hands on more of her books!! She did a great job writing the story and with the characters. I didn't love the ending but it was still good. I'm really hoping for a book two.
This book has a mix of mystery/suspense, possession, paranormal, romance all mixed in one.
Please look up the trigger warnings if they may effect you
July 8, 2024
This is the first time I’m reading a book from the author. Will definitely read more.
This book is dark, deals with a lot of mental illness. Read the triggers.
I love Claire and Echo. This story truly captures Claire’s anxiety, fear, paranoia, depression, hallucinations and a lot of other emotions. You can feel her emotions throughout the book. It’s chilling to feel that. Echo is there to protect Claire. I love their story. As I read more into this book I felt all the emotions and inner thoughts coming from Clair. That’s amazing when an author can write like that. Can’t wait to read more from Pen Mucching.
This book is dark, deals with a lot of mental illness. Read the triggers.
I love Claire and Echo. This story truly captures Claire’s anxiety, fear, paranoia, depression, hallucinations and a lot of other emotions. You can feel her emotions throughout the book. It’s chilling to feel that. Echo is there to protect Claire. I love their story. As I read more into this book I felt all the emotions and inner thoughts coming from Clair. That’s amazing when an author can write like that. Can’t wait to read more from Pen Mucching.
June 18, 2024
ARC Review:
5/5⭐️, 3/5🌶️
-Demons
-Horror Romance
-Single POV
-Paranormal
“Mm, you’re so sweet, my Little Soul,” Echo croons.
Holy. Canolies. This was fan-freaking-tastic. It definitely tops the list for best paranormal book i’ve read in a while. Echo and Claire are something else. What a pairing they make. And their go between is something else that’s for sure. The spice level is perfect, and the writing g style was amazing. I was so shocked through the twists and turns but it was so good. I highly recommend!
5/5⭐️, 3/5🌶️
-Demons
-Horror Romance
-Single POV
-Paranormal
“Mm, you’re so sweet, my Little Soul,” Echo croons.
Holy. Canolies. This was fan-freaking-tastic. It definitely tops the list for best paranormal book i’ve read in a while. Echo and Claire are something else. What a pairing they make. And their go between is something else that’s for sure. The spice level is perfect, and the writing g style was amazing. I was so shocked through the twists and turns but it was so good. I highly recommend!
July 7, 2024
What deliciously dark story . I loved the concept to this so different than I've read before and I love something new and fresh . I loved the concept of finding yourself in the dark , and touches on mental health I've picked up from the book at the end of the day you have yourself to find yourself and sometimes there's a morally black demon to give you that push along the way . Claires story and character build with a two twist you won't see coming was amazing for me , and I just loved echo .
This book was definitely edge of your seat couldn't put down for me .
This book was definitely edge of your seat couldn't put down for me .
September 4, 2024
This story has a little bit of everything. It’s a dark read. This is the first book by this author that I have read and am a little disappointed I didn’t find her sooner. I quite enjoyed the aspects of what Claire was experiencing the dreams, the demon, it all came together quite nicely. I wasn’t expecting that with Echo but that only made the story better. Now I’m on to discover this authors other writings. This book will not disappoint you.
September 9, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
Tropes:
-Dark Romance
-Paranormal Romance
My Thoughts:
What in the effed up inception sh** did I just read? Saying that daaannngg did I enjoy it. It is not the type of book I normally read but I enjoyed it so much. It was wild, unhinged, and dark but still so good! If you like horror, paranormal, unhinged book this is for you.
I will say Claire is not the smartest bulb in the bunch and why do I like the Villian? What does that say about me lol.
🌶️🌶️.5/5
Tropes:
-Dark Romance
-Paranormal Romance
My Thoughts:
What in the effed up inception sh** did I just read? Saying that daaannngg did I enjoy it. It is not the type of book I normally read but I enjoyed it so much. It was wild, unhinged, and dark but still so good! If you like horror, paranormal, unhinged book this is for you.
I will say Claire is not the smartest bulb in the bunch and why do I like the Villian? What does that say about me lol.
July 7, 2024
I enjoyed this a lot. I love horror and dark romance books and this seemed to mix those together, making it darker than a usual dark romance story.
I had an inkling of what the twist would be, and I was right, but not disappointed. All the twists led to there and it was good!
There is sort of a HEA but its definitely a dark one!
I had an inkling of what the twist would be, and I was right, but not disappointed. All the twists led to there and it was good!
There is sort of a HEA but its definitely a dark one!
August 7, 2024
I found beauty in the darkness
Wow! I fell in love with this book from the first chapter. The characters were captivating but what I loved most about this book was the authors ability to make the dark and scary, utterly beautiful. I can not express just how addictive this was! A beautiful master piece
Wow! I fell in love with this book from the first chapter. The characters were captivating but what I loved most about this book was the authors ability to make the dark and scary, utterly beautiful. I can not express just how addictive this was! A beautiful master piece
June 18, 2024
The ending is the only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars.
I absolutely loved this book. It was definitely dark but that’s what I prefer.
I want more! I really hope we get a continuation at some point
I absolutely loved this book. It was definitely dark but that’s what I prefer.
I want more! I really hope we get a continuation at some point
June 27, 2024
ARC Review
This book is dark. It deals with Claire and her insomnia and mental health issues. She cannot sleep so her friend does a spell to help her. Claire loves it in the dreamscape. It is peaceful and there is Echo, her protector. He is not what he seems though.
This book is dark. It deals with Claire and her insomnia and mental health issues. She cannot sleep so her friend does a spell to help her. Claire loves it in the dreamscape. It is peaceful and there is Echo, her protector. He is not what he seems though.
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