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The Devil's Claw #1
Into the Dark
Holly goes to Sutton, an isolated mountain town with a dark reputation, to find answers after the father she never knew goes missing. The last thing she expects while trying to piece together who this man really was is to meet a man. Or two.
Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed.
What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is?
And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed.
What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is?
And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2024
670 people are currently reading
1870 people want to read
About the author
Reece Barden
51 books510 followersReece is a steamy paranormal romance author writing wickedly wild romance. She is currently working on the shifter romance series, The Shifters of Grey Ridge and the Steel Pack Alphas.
She loves creating steamy stories about hot, growly alpha men and the women who love and torment them.
She writes for people just like her who love a little light-hearted fun with their naughty heroes and edge-of-your-seat storylines.
She loves creating steamy stories about hot, growly alpha men and the women who love and torment them.
She writes for people just like her who love a little light-hearted fun with their naughty heroes and edge-of-your-seat storylines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
August 11, 2025
Dark Secrets in Sutton
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜💚🩷🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋😀😍🤨🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Duet Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Holly – The Heroine
Holly’s arrival in the eerie mountain town of Sutton serves as both a physical journey and a metaphorical plunge into her estranged past. Her pragmatic response to a truck breakdown—choosing to sleep overnight in spring chill—quietly establishes her resilience. Her connection to John, a father she never knew, adds emotional weight and sets the tone for uncovering hidden truths. The sudden arrival of Sheriff Scott, who radiates stereotypical charm, foreshadows potential entanglements and heightens the sense of vulnerability Holly carries beneath her self-sufficiency.
🦸🏻♂️ Evan King – The Antihero
Evan King commands a brooding presence from the outset. His dual ownership of Sutton’s bar and auto shop reinforces his control within town borders, while his antagonism with Sheriff Scott injects an underlying tension that reverberates throughout the narrative. King’s psychology is framed by distrust toward women and a history of romantic failure—elements that evoke both danger and allure. His darkness isn’t caricatured; it’s presented as a volatile force drawn to Holly’s arrival, suggesting the story is as much about what she awakens in others as it is about her own search for answers.
---
📚 Plot Dynamics
The backdrop of three missing women introduces a chilling sense of history. The animosity between Evan and Scott implies layers of rivalry beyond simple professional conflict, and Holly’s forced mediation between them deepens the mystery. Evan’s offer to tow her truck reads ambiguously—equal parts helpful and possessive. This ambiguity threads suspense into every encounter.
The tension between secrecy and survival plays out through town lore: Sutton holds a secret that its residents protect, yet Holly’s quest for familial closure unravels these tightly held threads. Particularly haunting is the detail that Evan’s ex-girlfriend was the last to disappear—a revelation that raises questions about his motives and mental stability.
---
🌟 Standout Elements
• Ben King, Evan’s brother, provides needed levity and contrast. His warmth tempers the darker undercurrents and gives Holly (and listeners) a reprieve.
• Evan’s initial gruff demeanor is compellingly written; his emotional opacity generates intrigue and unpredictability.
• The sensual tension is raw and aggressive, perhaps too much for some tastes—but it’s undeniably woven into Evan’s identity.
• The shared town secret adds a layer of mythology that enriches the setting and stakes.
• The subplot involving Evan’s ex-girlfriend enhances the plot’s psychological depth and emotional complexity.
---
💔 Areas for Growth
• Some relationship dynamics veer into melodrama, particularly Evan’s shift from menace to passion. A bit more narrative finesse would enhance believability.
• Holly’s agency occasionally stalls in moments when she’s more reactive than proactive.
---
🎙️ Narration Analysis
The duet-style narration by Isabelle Turner and Dan Levy creates a vivid auditory split that mirrors the POV transitions in the story.
• Isabelle Turner delivers an engaging and emotionally attuned performance. Her vocal tone suits Holly’s youth and courage well, lending a sense of realism to her inner and outer conflicts.
• Dan Levy offers adequate range—his portrayal of Scott is approachable and friendly, while Evan’s gravelly voice captures the character’s intensity. However, his interpretation lacks some nuance during emotionally layered scenes, particularly where menace gives way to vulnerability.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜💚🩷🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋😀😍🤨🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Duet Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Holly – The Heroine
Holly’s arrival in the eerie mountain town of Sutton serves as both a physical journey and a metaphorical plunge into her estranged past. Her pragmatic response to a truck breakdown—choosing to sleep overnight in spring chill—quietly establishes her resilience. Her connection to John, a father she never knew, adds emotional weight and sets the tone for uncovering hidden truths. The sudden arrival of Sheriff Scott, who radiates stereotypical charm, foreshadows potential entanglements and heightens the sense of vulnerability Holly carries beneath her self-sufficiency.
🦸🏻♂️ Evan King – The Antihero
Evan King commands a brooding presence from the outset. His dual ownership of Sutton’s bar and auto shop reinforces his control within town borders, while his antagonism with Sheriff Scott injects an underlying tension that reverberates throughout the narrative. King’s psychology is framed by distrust toward women and a history of romantic failure—elements that evoke both danger and allure. His darkness isn’t caricatured; it’s presented as a volatile force drawn to Holly’s arrival, suggesting the story is as much about what she awakens in others as it is about her own search for answers.
---
📚 Plot Dynamics
The backdrop of three missing women introduces a chilling sense of history. The animosity between Evan and Scott implies layers of rivalry beyond simple professional conflict, and Holly’s forced mediation between them deepens the mystery. Evan’s offer to tow her truck reads ambiguously—equal parts helpful and possessive. This ambiguity threads suspense into every encounter.
The tension between secrecy and survival plays out through town lore: Sutton holds a secret that its residents protect, yet Holly’s quest for familial closure unravels these tightly held threads. Particularly haunting is the detail that Evan’s ex-girlfriend was the last to disappear—a revelation that raises questions about his motives and mental stability.
---
🌟 Standout Elements
• Ben King, Evan’s brother, provides needed levity and contrast. His warmth tempers the darker undercurrents and gives Holly (and listeners) a reprieve.
• Evan’s initial gruff demeanor is compellingly written; his emotional opacity generates intrigue and unpredictability.
• The sensual tension is raw and aggressive, perhaps too much for some tastes—but it’s undeniably woven into Evan’s identity.
• The shared town secret adds a layer of mythology that enriches the setting and stakes.
• The subplot involving Evan’s ex-girlfriend enhances the plot’s psychological depth and emotional complexity.
---
💔 Areas for Growth
• Some relationship dynamics veer into melodrama, particularly Evan’s shift from menace to passion. A bit more narrative finesse would enhance believability.
• Holly’s agency occasionally stalls in moments when she’s more reactive than proactive.
---
🎙️ Narration Analysis
The duet-style narration by Isabelle Turner and Dan Levy creates a vivid auditory split that mirrors the POV transitions in the story.
• Isabelle Turner delivers an engaging and emotionally attuned performance. Her vocal tone suits Holly’s youth and courage well, lending a sense of realism to her inner and outer conflicts.
• Dan Levy offers adequate range—his portrayal of Scott is approachable and friendly, while Evan’s gravelly voice captures the character’s intensity. However, his interpretation lacks some nuance during emotionally layered scenes, particularly where menace gives way to vulnerability.
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April 6, 2024
~ MF PNR Romance
~ Monster Shifter
~ Small Town
~ Crime Drama
~ Spicy with some:
Primal Play-Knotting
Breeding kink
I went in to this book expecting a shifter romance but this actually leans more towards a monster romance and it’s really good! It’s a small town mystery/suspense with some nice monster smut.
Holly comes to clear out her missing father’s cabin in a small town that has some dark mysteries going on, with local women missing. The mystery that surrounds the small town is well written. I had it partially figured out, but there were still some good surprises.
Evan, the local monster grump is just 🥵. He’s a dirty talking, possessive alpha kind of guy without being a total ass. The banter and back and forth with Holly is nice and snarky. I really enjoyed this one.
~ Monster Shifter
~ Small Town
~ Crime Drama
~ Spicy with some:
Primal Play-Knotting
Breeding kink
I went in to this book expecting a shifter romance but this actually leans more towards a monster romance and it’s really good! It’s a small town mystery/suspense with some nice monster smut.
Holly comes to clear out her missing father’s cabin in a small town that has some dark mysteries going on, with local women missing. The mystery that surrounds the small town is well written. I had it partially figured out, but there were still some good surprises.
Evan, the local monster grump is just 🥵. He’s a dirty talking, possessive alpha kind of guy without being a total ass. The banter and back and forth with Holly is nice and snarky. I really enjoyed this one.
Read
June 25, 2024DNF at 35%. This was a dud for me unfortunately. I saw this as a recommendation of an amazing dark shifter romance with “non stop action”.
And I’m literally falling asleep.
The characters are absolutely cringe as fuck. They go from absolutely hating each other to the cringe Instalust moments with personality changes overnight.
The FMC is dense as hell.
The MMC is a shit ass.
I can’t.
And I’m literally falling asleep.
The characters are absolutely cringe as fuck. They go from absolutely hating each other to the cringe Instalust moments with personality changes overnight.
The FMC is dense as hell.
The MMC is a shit ass.
I can’t.
August 31, 2023
I will be the 1st to say that this book gets you in all the feels, and it's a smut monster romance.. what else are you waiting for? This was a good book, with action and some suspense.. although it does leave you hanging towards the end on what happened to Holly's dad.. (I'm not sure we will find out) which seems to be a big focus in the book also.
January 4, 2024
I love this book and how the characters fit into the story. My favorite characters are holly and Ben Evan.
Holly has that come at me bro attitude and don't take no shit from nobody. I think is just sad she missed out on her dad being there for her.
Ben I think he just a nice dude trying to meet new friends. But what drives me nuts he's always on that damn phone 😂😆 I couldn't help to laugh.
Evan he's just a guy that needs some loving. But after how he made holly feel and was so rude to her self torture he deserves it that girl been nothing but nice to him but I think he came to his senses.
Overall
I love how the outline of the story about how the plot was. It's one of those stories that gets you thinking. I like that kind of thing in a story.
Keep up the great job
I highly recommend this book and please read trigger warnings
Holly has that come at me bro attitude and don't take no shit from nobody. I think is just sad she missed out on her dad being there for her.
Ben I think he just a nice dude trying to meet new friends. But what drives me nuts he's always on that damn phone 😂😆 I couldn't help to laugh.
Evan he's just a guy that needs some loving. But after how he made holly feel and was so rude to her self torture he deserves it that girl been nothing but nice to him but I think he came to his senses.
Overall
I love how the outline of the story about how the plot was. It's one of those stories that gets you thinking. I like that kind of thing in a story.
Keep up the great job
I highly recommend this book and please read trigger warnings
March 25, 2024
Plot: 📖📖
Originality: 📝
Narration:🎙️🎙️
Spice: 🌶️
Action:👊🏽
Troupe: small town, shifter
Triggers: none
I felt the plot was elementary at best. It starts slow and stays slow. The spice was mild. I ended up sleeping through most of the book and when I woke up I didn’t feel like I missed anything. The mystery wasn’t that mysterious to me.
Originality: 📝
Narration:🎙️🎙️
Spice: 🌶️
Action:👊🏽
Troupe: small town, shifter
Triggers: none
I felt the plot was elementary at best. It starts slow and stays slow. The spice was mild. I ended up sleeping through most of the book and when I woke up I didn’t feel like I missed anything. The mystery wasn’t that mysterious to me.
July 1, 2024
This didn’t pull me in the way I wanted it to. 🤷🏻♀️That’s it.
MF
KU
HEA
MF
KU
HEA
September 22, 2023
Though this book is presented as a Monster Romance, it takes a while for it to reveal the monster. I was reading and trying to figure out who or what the monster was after getting to know a lot about the characters. I started wondering if this was a paranormal romance at all. But then it came with a bang and I loved every minute of it. I liked that it was surprise to find out what exactly was going on in this small town. Let me tell you, for a small town they had a lot going on.
Holly is on her way to Sutton to clean out the cabin of her missing father that she just found out about. Her mother had kept his identity a secret up until then. John was a ranger and his cabin needed to be cleared out for his replacement. With no real place to go, Holly thought it would be a good way to get to know the man she had never met. Unfortunately, her truck broke down before she could get to her destination. Sheriff Scott Golden found her on the side of the road and took her to her hotel. Evan King took care of her truck. There was instant tension between the two especially when it came to Holly.
Evan was drawn to Holly from the first sighting. Scott wanted Holly and was not willing to lose her to Evan King no matter what. Evan was a part of an investigation. Three woman had went missing in Sutton and now with John missing, everyone was on edge. What is going on in this small town? Evan knew all clues pointed to him. He had to make it his priority to find out what was going on before he went down for something he had nothing to do with. John was also looking into the case before he went missing. Will Evan find out what is going on?
Holly is on her way to Sutton to clean out the cabin of her missing father that she just found out about. Her mother had kept his identity a secret up until then. John was a ranger and his cabin needed to be cleared out for his replacement. With no real place to go, Holly thought it would be a good way to get to know the man she had never met. Unfortunately, her truck broke down before she could get to her destination. Sheriff Scott Golden found her on the side of the road and took her to her hotel. Evan King took care of her truck. There was instant tension between the two especially when it came to Holly.
Evan was drawn to Holly from the first sighting. Scott wanted Holly and was not willing to lose her to Evan King no matter what. Evan was a part of an investigation. Three woman had went missing in Sutton and now with John missing, everyone was on edge. What is going on in this small town? Evan knew all clues pointed to him. He had to make it his priority to find out what was going on before he went down for something he had nothing to do with. John was also looking into the case before he went missing. Will Evan find out what is going on?
October 19, 2023
Blurb:
•Holly goes to Sutton, an isolated mountain town with a dark reputation, to find answers after the father she never knew goes missing. The last thing she expects while trying to piece together who this man really was is to meet a man. Or two. Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed. What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is? And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
Mini review:
•Omg I loved this book and I’m so excited to read book two!!
•This book is a monster romance, although the monster isn’t revealed until later in the book! This book is a small town mystery with action and suspense and of course spice!! Holly and Evan are polar opposites but there’s something that attracts these two together! Their connection was extremely powerful and sooo strong!
•Holly goes to Sutton, an isolated mountain town with a dark reputation, to find answers after the father she never knew goes missing. The last thing she expects while trying to piece together who this man really was is to meet a man. Or two. Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed. What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is? And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
Mini review:
•Omg I loved this book and I’m so excited to read book two!!
•This book is a monster romance, although the monster isn’t revealed until later in the book! This book is a small town mystery with action and suspense and of course spice!! Holly and Evan are polar opposites but there’s something that attracts these two together! Their connection was extremely powerful and sooo strong!
March 29, 2025
Thank you to Reece Barden for a copy of Into the Dark! I finally got to picking it up and reading it!
This book presents as a monster romance/ PNR but it takes a bit for us to find out what exactly is paranormal about this. It came with a bang and I loved every minute of it! I loved that we got chapters from different characters POVs. For a small town they sure had a lot going on.
Holly is on her way to Sutton to finalize her father's affairs. A father that she just found out about as her mother had kept his identity a secret. Holly thought that his cabin was a good place to end up while she tried to get to know him. Unfortunately her truck breaks down before she gets to her destination.
In walks Sheriff Scott Golden who takes her to a hotel in town while Evan King took care of her truck. The tension between the characters is super palpable and we realize that Golden and King do not get along AT ALL.
Both men wanted Holly for themselves and it spirals from there.
Lots of secrets are revealed and I cannot wait to eventually pick up the other books so I can know more.
This book presents as a monster romance/ PNR but it takes a bit for us to find out what exactly is paranormal about this. It came with a bang and I loved every minute of it! I loved that we got chapters from different characters POVs. For a small town they sure had a lot going on.
Holly is on her way to Sutton to finalize her father's affairs. A father that she just found out about as her mother had kept his identity a secret. Holly thought that his cabin was a good place to end up while she tried to get to know him. Unfortunately her truck breaks down before she gets to her destination.
In walks Sheriff Scott Golden who takes her to a hotel in town while Evan King took care of her truck. The tension between the characters is super palpable and we realize that Golden and King do not get along AT ALL.
Both men wanted Holly for themselves and it spirals from there.
Lots of secrets are revealed and I cannot wait to eventually pick up the other books so I can know more.
June 23, 2025
15% in -
MMC is a total asshole; admits that he is a total asshole; never apologizes. He grabs a woman so hard that he leaves red marks and bruises, and doesnt apologize. And the woman? She's even worse. Says "it's fine." IN WHAT WORLD IS THAT FINE?
And then she STILL lusts over him even though he has done nothing except be a total asshole towards him.
One of the top reviews was like "MMC isn't an ass." What book did that person read, cause it surely wasn't this one.
FMC even questions why she can't get your body to stop responding to Evan being an asshole. BBS. This book was written in 2023. Like, dude. Come on.
22% in -
Evan assaults her (again), and instead of showing remorse, he's giddy that she put up a fight. He thinks its "cute" that she is so "fiesty."
DNF 24% -
Once she gets turned on by being physically assaulted, sexually assaulted, and he refuses to apologize for being an asshole, I was done.
MMC is a total asshole; admits that he is a total asshole; never apologizes. He grabs a woman so hard that he leaves red marks and bruises, and doesnt apologize. And the woman? She's even worse. Says "it's fine." IN WHAT WORLD IS THAT FINE?
And then she STILL lusts over him even though he has done nothing except be a total asshole towards him.
One of the top reviews was like "MMC isn't an ass." What book did that person read, cause it surely wasn't this one.
FMC even questions why she can't get your body to stop responding to Evan being an asshole. BBS. This book was written in 2023. Like, dude. Come on.
22% in -
Evan assaults her (again), and instead of showing remorse, he's giddy that she put up a fight. He thinks its "cute" that she is so "fiesty."
DNF 24% -
Once she gets turned on by being physically assaulted, sexually assaulted, and he refuses to apologize for being an asshole, I was done.
September 16, 2023
Into The Dark: A Monster Romance
by author: Reece Barden
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Blurb
Holly goes to Sutton, an isolated mountain town with a dark reputation, to find answers after the father she never knew goes missing. The last thing she expects while trying to piece together who this man really was is to meet a man. Or two.
Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed.
What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is?
And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
My thoughts
If you love monster romance with a small town vibe, then this book is for you. This book sucked me in right from the start. The small town has a murder mystery that goes on throughout the book to keep you guessing. The world and characters are so well written that you can't help but picture everything as you read. The author is able to build suspense through the narrative until the story reaches its pivotal moments, which keeps the reader turning the pages just to see what will happen.
by author: Reece Barden
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Blurb
Holly goes to Sutton, an isolated mountain town with a dark reputation, to find answers after the father she never knew goes missing. The last thing she expects while trying to piece together who this man really was is to meet a man. Or two.
Her arrival in town ignites an old rivalry and when a mysterious creature starts stalking Holly, the secret lives of the small town's shifter population are revealed.
What happens when you fall in love with the person who may have been involved in your father's disappearance? Is he really the monster everyone says he is?
And when he reveals his true form to her, will she wish she listened and stayed away?
My thoughts
If you love monster romance with a small town vibe, then this book is for you. This book sucked me in right from the start. The small town has a murder mystery that goes on throughout the book to keep you guessing. The world and characters are so well written that you can't help but picture everything as you read. The author is able to build suspense through the narrative until the story reaches its pivotal moments, which keeps the reader turning the pages just to see what will happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2023
Holly started off in the book by having car trouble so she grabbed a sleeping bag and was going to sleep there until the morning. She was in the middle of nowhere on the way to Sutton. Luckily Scott the sheriff showed up. He told her it isn’t safe to sleep out there. At that same time Evan showed up with his tow truck. Evan and Scott didn’t get along. Scott thought Evan was bad news. So Scott ended up taking Holly to the bed n breakfast where she was going to stay. When she went to get settled she decided to go to the local bar that Evan owned for a drink. She ended up being friends with Scott even though he wanted more. She was confused between him and Evan. She felt something off with Scott but couldn’t place it and she didn’t want to be caught in the middle of their feud. She made it known that she was going to be staying at the ranger cabin to clean it out. Evan got pissed and wanted to know why. She said that her father John was the ranger who was missing. Evan was very hot and cold with her. She felt that she was being watched so she told Evan and he brought her back to the bed n breakfast and scoped out the cabin. Evan was keeping a secret. Turns out she was being followed but they couldn’t figure out who/what it was. I love all the twists and turns in the book. So good. I loved the ending. I can’t wait to see if there’s more about Evan and Holly.
September 20, 2023
Into The Dark by Reece Barden is a thrilling and suspenseful ride full of murder, mystery, monsters, scandelous secrets and delicious smut that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
I simply cannot wait for book two!
Be mindful that this book is a Monster Romance and has many trigger warnings. Please be cautious and read the author's warnings before proceeding.
I simply cannot wait for book two!
Be mindful that this book is a Monster Romance and has many trigger warnings. Please be cautious and read the author's warnings before proceeding.
October 20, 2023
Holly
When Holly goes to her fathers hometown to pack up his belongings she want expecting to uncover the towns secret. Evan is trying to keep it from her and protect her from danger, but she's not happy about it. This story is full of action and intrigue. There's some good spice and it's very well written. I can't wait for the next book!
When Holly goes to her fathers hometown to pack up his belongings she want expecting to uncover the towns secret. Evan is trying to keep it from her and protect her from danger, but she's not happy about it. This story is full of action and intrigue. There's some good spice and it's very well written. I can't wait for the next book!
September 14, 2023
My jaw was on the FLOOR by the end of this book. There's so much foreshadowing, but props to Reece because I didn't catch half of them until I got smacked with that twist👏🏻👏🏻
I love, love, love this book! I was instantly drawn in & hooked. It was the perfect mix of grumpy monster & take no shit fmc with a mystery hanging over everyone's heads. I enjoyed every character, and don't want to leave the small mountain town of Sutton! I can't wait for book 2🖤 I need to know about Kali & John asap👏🏻
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love, love, love this book! I was instantly drawn in & hooked. It was the perfect mix of grumpy monster & take no shit fmc with a mystery hanging over everyone's heads. I enjoyed every character, and don't want to leave the small mountain town of Sutton! I can't wait for book 2🖤 I need to know about Kali & John asap👏🏻
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 18, 2023
This book pulled me in right away. I had a hard time putting it down because I was so infatuated. I finished this in less than 24 hours because it was so amazing! I can’t wait to read more by Reece
September 10, 2023
Into the Dark
This is a suspenseful monster romance book.
Holly is tasked with cleaning out her father’s ranger cabin after he disappears. On her way into town, her car breaks down and she meets a cute sherif, and a moody bar owner.
Intrigued by the little town she will be inhabiting, she starts digging to see what information she can find. She learns of the three girls that disappeared, the sheriff in town is named Scott, and the bar owner/ mechanic is Evan King. His brother Ben also took a liking to her.
The town is odd, and gives her a weird feeling. Will she uncover all of its secrets? And will she figure them out in time? Or will she fall for the beast that controls the town?
I was hooked from the first chapter and I read it in one sitting. If you’re a fan of red flags, then you’ll love this book! 🚩 🚩🚩
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is a suspenseful monster romance book.
Holly is tasked with cleaning out her father’s ranger cabin after he disappears. On her way into town, her car breaks down and she meets a cute sherif, and a moody bar owner.
Intrigued by the little town she will be inhabiting, she starts digging to see what information she can find. She learns of the three girls that disappeared, the sheriff in town is named Scott, and the bar owner/ mechanic is Evan King. His brother Ben also took a liking to her.
The town is odd, and gives her a weird feeling. Will she uncover all of its secrets? And will she figure them out in time? Or will she fall for the beast that controls the town?
I was hooked from the first chapter and I read it in one sitting. If you’re a fan of red flags, then you’ll love this book! 🚩 🚩🚩
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 30, 2023
Holly has to go to Sutton to clear out a ranger cabin of a father she didn’t know about . She’s also lost her mum so she all alone her car breaks down and she’d rescued by the Sutton sheriff Scott and then Evan turns up in his tow truck.
Scott is a handsome man friendly however Evan completely different, dark mysterious, I’m very grumpy, hardly even looking her .
She’s attracted to Evan straight away is something that’s pulling her to him she’s never felt like it before. This is an amazing story can’t wait for book 2 in the series
Scott is a handsome man friendly however Evan completely different, dark mysterious, I’m very grumpy, hardly even looking her .
She’s attracted to Evan straight away is something that’s pulling her to him she’s never felt like it before. This is an amazing story can’t wait for book 2 in the series
October 12, 2023
Unputdownable
I couldn’t stop reading this even if I wanted to! It was unputdownable and unforgettable!
I have been reading paranormal romance since I was 13 years old and I have NEVER read anything like the Beasts of Devil’s Claw. I’m OBSESSED!!!
This book sucked me in and made me a Reece Barden fan! You have a lifelong reader in me. I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
5 phenomenal stars!
I couldn’t stop reading this even if I wanted to! It was unputdownable and unforgettable!
I have been reading paranormal romance since I was 13 years old and I have NEVER read anything like the Beasts of Devil’s Claw. I’m OBSESSED!!!
This book sucked me in and made me a Reece Barden fan! You have a lifelong reader in me. I can’t wait for the rest of the series!
5 phenomenal stars!
September 17, 2023
3.5/5 ⭐️
I read this book due my interest in expanding my reading genre’s/ tropes. This book had mystery, secrets, a twist or two, some romance, mates, and a different take on wolves. I didn’t expect the villain to be who they were but yet didn’t full surprise me based on little hint here or there. I liked how the mystery of who was behind everything was a constant pull to wonder who the heck was behind it. In the end I’m glad justice was served.
I read this book due my interest in expanding my reading genre’s/ tropes. This book had mystery, secrets, a twist or two, some romance, mates, and a different take on wolves. I didn’t expect the villain to be who they were but yet didn’t full surprise me based on little hint here or there. I liked how the mystery of who was behind everything was a constant pull to wonder who the heck was behind it. In the end I’m glad justice was served.
September 6, 2023
This is the first book of the series and it is off to a good start. Holly stumbles right into the middle of a mystery during her visit to Sutton. She recently became aware that her father had been living in this town before his disappearance. His disappearance is not the only one raising eyebrows. Holly has lots of questions but not a lot of answers. And before long the sight is set on her. Holly doesn’t know who to trust and if she safe in this town.
Definitely an easy read and I wouldn’t say that the mystery is overly complicated. It is pretty spicy with plenty of heat. I am looking forward to seeing where this series is headed.
Definitely an easy read and I wouldn’t say that the mystery is overly complicated. It is pretty spicy with plenty of heat. I am looking forward to seeing where this series is headed.
September 26, 2023
What do you expect
When your truck breaks down in the dark on an empty road. Well not to be rescued by 2 “charming” gentleman. When you get to the quiet small town to take care f your dad’s cabin, you find out that this town and its inhabitants may be more than meets the eye. Especially the brooding man candy walking around. But which one should you choose the sweet, charming alpha sheriff or the brooding bad boy alpha hole bar owner with a sketchy past. Oh boy oh boy, now let’s add a stalker in the mix too. This is a must read. Can’t wait for Kali’s book.
When your truck breaks down in the dark on an empty road. Well not to be rescued by 2 “charming” gentleman. When you get to the quiet small town to take care f your dad’s cabin, you find out that this town and its inhabitants may be more than meets the eye. Especially the brooding man candy walking around. But which one should you choose the sweet, charming alpha sheriff or the brooding bad boy alpha hole bar owner with a sketchy past. Oh boy oh boy, now let’s add a stalker in the mix too. This is a must read. Can’t wait for Kali’s book.
September 28, 2023
If you’re looking for an action packed monster romance…. We’ll this is the one for you. This was such a page turner, I couldn’t put it down.
September 27, 2023
Wow! This book is the perfect blend of monster, mystery and lots of spiciness! The author had me hooked from the first page to the last page and I can't wait until the next book!
September 22, 2023
This book was SO good! It was full of excitement from start to finish. I read it in one sitting because I was glued!
The chemistry between King and Holly was off the charts, and the sizzle was amazing too lol.
The writing is sublime, the story is different, and you really won’t regret reading it.
The chemistry between King and Holly was off the charts, and the sizzle was amazing too lol.
The writing is sublime, the story is different, and you really won’t regret reading it.
October 13, 2023
I enjoyed this story. I like the dynamic between Holly and Evan. I enjoyed the mystery in this plot and really keeps you engaged. I honestly didn't expect the murderer to be who they are. The only question left unanswered is what happened to Holly's dad.
September 8, 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
4/5⭐️
3/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖(𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳):
MF/dual pov/HEA/paranormal/monster/monstrous ‘attributes’/dark elements/primal/marking/shifting/breeding/light dubcon/stalking/missing persons/murder
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
Book 1 of the Beast of Devil’s Claw series. Each book follows a different set of characters and can be read as a stand-alone but to get the most of the story it is suggested to read the books in order.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Holly is new to the small town of Sutton. She is in search for answers regarding her birth father. But what she finds is so much more. From alpha broody men fighting over her attention to yellow eyes lurking at night followed by footprints underneath her window that are too large to be human have her questioning what actually goes on in this town. And why is every one so tight lipped but extremely concerned when she reveals what she saw?
Evan is the brooding and grumpy town mechanic. His town has harbored their secrets forever but with things going less then stellar lately he fears what’s to come. Meeting Holly throws him for a loop. The more he pushes her away, the more she seems to prefer being in his company. The more he tries to scare her, the more heated their chemistry gets. But can she accept him and all that he truly is?
This was a quick spicy read filled with suspense. I was pulled in from the beginning and was so ready for all the answers. I loved Holly’s determination to stand her ground… even in the face of the unknown. While I felt bad for Evan and his past, I really enjoyed watching him change as his feelings for Holly grew. And lord that man got possessive real fast 😏 Add in that protective alpha dominance, the breeding kink and woooo boy, all the spice is spicing. This book is wrapped up with a HEA for Holly and Evan and does set us up for what’s to come in book 2, but there are still minor open ended plot points that I’m assuming will continue through the rest of the series (similar to Reece’s other series) so I’m excited to see when this series takes us!
** 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 … 𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙡. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙮 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘦, 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 =𝘋 **
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
She doesn’t know it yet, but the second she let me kiss her, touch her, and my beast got a taste, she was ours.
“Tell me. Tell me I can sleep with my cock buried inside you, that I can put a baby in you. You’re mine, Holly. This pussy is mine.”
Her sudden movement, giving me her back, was a bad idea. Without meaning to, she’s triggering my predatory urges. The last thing she should do around someone like me is run.
4/5⭐️
3/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖(𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳):
MF/dual pov/HEA/paranormal/monster/monstrous ‘attributes’/dark elements/primal/marking/shifting/breeding/light dubcon/stalking/missing persons/murder
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
Book 1 of the Beast of Devil’s Claw series. Each book follows a different set of characters and can be read as a stand-alone but to get the most of the story it is suggested to read the books in order.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Holly is new to the small town of Sutton. She is in search for answers regarding her birth father. But what she finds is so much more. From alpha broody men fighting over her attention to yellow eyes lurking at night followed by footprints underneath her window that are too large to be human have her questioning what actually goes on in this town. And why is every one so tight lipped but extremely concerned when she reveals what she saw?
Evan is the brooding and grumpy town mechanic. His town has harbored their secrets forever but with things going less then stellar lately he fears what’s to come. Meeting Holly throws him for a loop. The more he pushes her away, the more she seems to prefer being in his company. The more he tries to scare her, the more heated their chemistry gets. But can she accept him and all that he truly is?
This was a quick spicy read filled with suspense. I was pulled in from the beginning and was so ready for all the answers. I loved Holly’s determination to stand her ground… even in the face of the unknown. While I felt bad for Evan and his past, I really enjoyed watching him change as his feelings for Holly grew. And lord that man got possessive real fast 😏 Add in that protective alpha dominance, the breeding kink and woooo boy, all the spice is spicing. This book is wrapped up with a HEA for Holly and Evan and does set us up for what’s to come in book 2, but there are still minor open ended plot points that I’m assuming will continue through the rest of the series (similar to Reece’s other series) so I’m excited to see when this series takes us!
** 𝘞𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 … 𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙡. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙮 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘦, 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 =𝘋 **
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
She doesn’t know it yet, but the second she let me kiss her, touch her, and my beast got a taste, she was ours.
“Tell me. Tell me I can sleep with my cock buried inside you, that I can put a baby in you. You’re mine, Holly. This pussy is mine.”
Her sudden movement, giving me her back, was a bad idea. Without meaning to, she’s triggering my predatory urges. The last thing she should do around someone like me is run.
September 4, 2023
Into the Dark" is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends shifter romance with a touch of mystery. With its well-crafted storyline, intriguing characters, and perfect pacing, this book offers an exciting reading experience that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
The story revolves around Holly, a young woman who unexpectedly discovers the existence of her late father in the small town of Sutton. However, her arrival coincides with a series of missing cases involving young women in the town. As she embarks on a journey to clean out her father's belongings, Holly finds herself facing car trouble, which leads her to encounter two attractive men: the local sheriff and the town's grumpy tow truck owner.
One of the book's strengths lies in its pacing. The author skillfully builds suspense throughout the narrative, gradually increasing the tension until the story reaches its climactic moments. The reader is kept on the edge of their seat, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events in Sutton. The gradual unveiling of secrets and the careful distribution of plot twists make for an engaging and satisfying reading experience.
The characters in "Into the Dark" are well-developed and relatable. Holly, the protagonist, is a strong and independent woman who finds herself caught in a web of secrets and danger. Her determination and resilience make her a compelling character to follow. The two male leads, the sheriff and the grumpy tow truck owner, add an intriguing layer to the story. Their contrasting personalities and undeniable chemistry with Holly create a captivating dynamic that enhances the romantic aspect of the book.
The shifter romance element in the story is skillfully woven into the plot. The author strikes a perfect balance between romance and mystery, allowing both elements to shine without overshadowing one another. The slow-burn romance between Holly and one of the male characters adds depth and intensity to the narrative, keeping readers invested in their relationship as they navigate the dangers lurking in Sutton.
In conclusion, "Into the Dark" is a delightful blend of shifter romance and mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish. With its well-paced narrative, compelling characters, and skillful balance between romance and suspense. Whether you are drawn to the allure of shifter romance or enjoy a good mystery, this novel has something to offer. Prepare to be enthralled as you delve into the depths of Sutton and uncover its secrets alongside Holly.
The story revolves around Holly, a young woman who unexpectedly discovers the existence of her late father in the small town of Sutton. However, her arrival coincides with a series of missing cases involving young women in the town. As she embarks on a journey to clean out her father's belongings, Holly finds herself facing car trouble, which leads her to encounter two attractive men: the local sheriff and the town's grumpy tow truck owner.
One of the book's strengths lies in its pacing. The author skillfully builds suspense throughout the narrative, gradually increasing the tension until the story reaches its climactic moments. The reader is kept on the edge of their seat, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events in Sutton. The gradual unveiling of secrets and the careful distribution of plot twists make for an engaging and satisfying reading experience.
The characters in "Into the Dark" are well-developed and relatable. Holly, the protagonist, is a strong and independent woman who finds herself caught in a web of secrets and danger. Her determination and resilience make her a compelling character to follow. The two male leads, the sheriff and the grumpy tow truck owner, add an intriguing layer to the story. Their contrasting personalities and undeniable chemistry with Holly create a captivating dynamic that enhances the romantic aspect of the book.
The shifter romance element in the story is skillfully woven into the plot. The author strikes a perfect balance between romance and mystery, allowing both elements to shine without overshadowing one another. The slow-burn romance between Holly and one of the male characters adds depth and intensity to the narrative, keeping readers invested in their relationship as they navigate the dangers lurking in Sutton.
In conclusion, "Into the Dark" is a delightful blend of shifter romance and mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish. With its well-paced narrative, compelling characters, and skillful balance between romance and suspense. Whether you are drawn to the allure of shifter romance or enjoy a good mystery, this novel has something to offer. Prepare to be enthralled as you delve into the depths of Sutton and uncover its secrets alongside Holly.
November 12, 2023
"She doesn’t know it yet, but the second she let me kiss her, touch her, and my beast got a taste, she was ours"
Holly is new to the small town of Sutton. She is in search for answers regarding her birth father. But what she finds is so much more. From alpha broody men fighting over her attention to yellow eyes lurking at night followed by footprints underneath her window that are too large to be human have her questioning what actually goes on in this town. And why is every one so tight lipped but extremely concerned when she reveals what she saw?
“No matter how many times I’ve seen it, it’s always shocking to see what a vibrant human body is reduced to in a relatively short amount of time.”
Evan is the brooding and grumpy town mechanic. His town has harbored their secrets forever but with things going less then stellar lately he fears what’s to come. Meeting Holly throws him for a loop. The more he pushes her away, the more she seems to prefer being in his company. The more he tries to scare her, the more heated their chemistry gets. But can she accept him and all that he truly is?
"The animal in me has set its sights on Holly. He wants to hunt her and claim her, make her ours, and he rarely gives up once he starts."
This was a quick spicy read filled with suspense. I was pulled in from the start and was so ready for all it all and get answers. I liked Holly’s determination to stand her ground, even in the face of the unknown. While I felt bad for Evan and his past, I really enjoyed watching him change as his feelings for Holly grew. And sweet baby Jesus that man got possessive real quick 🥵 Add in that protective alpha dominance, the breeding kink and Ohh child, all the spice was spicing. The book is wrapped up with a beautiful HEA for Holly and Evan and does set us up for book 2, but there are still minor questions with plot points that I’m assuming will continue through the rest of the series, so I’m excited and ready to see where this series takes us!
“Tell me. Tell me I can sleep with my c*ck buried inside you, that I can put a baby in you. You’re mine, Holly. This p*ssy is mine.”
Holly is new to the small town of Sutton. She is in search for answers regarding her birth father. But what she finds is so much more. From alpha broody men fighting over her attention to yellow eyes lurking at night followed by footprints underneath her window that are too large to be human have her questioning what actually goes on in this town. And why is every one so tight lipped but extremely concerned when she reveals what she saw?
“No matter how many times I’ve seen it, it’s always shocking to see what a vibrant human body is reduced to in a relatively short amount of time.”
Evan is the brooding and grumpy town mechanic. His town has harbored their secrets forever but with things going less then stellar lately he fears what’s to come. Meeting Holly throws him for a loop. The more he pushes her away, the more she seems to prefer being in his company. The more he tries to scare her, the more heated their chemistry gets. But can she accept him and all that he truly is?
"The animal in me has set its sights on Holly. He wants to hunt her and claim her, make her ours, and he rarely gives up once he starts."
This was a quick spicy read filled with suspense. I was pulled in from the start and was so ready for all it all and get answers. I liked Holly’s determination to stand her ground, even in the face of the unknown. While I felt bad for Evan and his past, I really enjoyed watching him change as his feelings for Holly grew. And sweet baby Jesus that man got possessive real quick 🥵 Add in that protective alpha dominance, the breeding kink and Ohh child, all the spice was spicing. The book is wrapped up with a beautiful HEA for Holly and Evan and does set us up for book 2, but there are still minor questions with plot points that I’m assuming will continue through the rest of the series, so I’m excited and ready to see where this series takes us!
“Tell me. Tell me I can sleep with my c*ck buried inside you, that I can put a baby in you. You’re mine, Holly. This p*ssy is mine.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews