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A Twisted Gift
Thirteen years ago, I vowed to save her. Now I’m here to take what’s mine, and nothing will stand in my way.
Raina Montgomery has been my obsession since I was eleven years old. We met in secret, separated by a fence that kept her caged on her father’s property. But when we were discovered, she was ripped away from me, and I never saw her again.
She’s haunted me ever since, the girl who my parents were convinced was a figment of my imagination. But I could never let her go, even when I doubted my own memories.
The more I searched for any evidence of her existence, the further I drove myself into a state of disbelief and desperation.
Until I hear about the auction.
Held by Charles Montgomery himself, and what’s up for sale but his own daughter, unknown to the whole world until now.
But what he doesn’t know is that by revealing her identity, he’s placing himself directly in my sights, and I’ve never been known for my mercy. He’ll get what he deserves, and I’ll make sure Raina is free for the first time in her life.
A Twisted Gift is a Christmas romance novella with dark themes. Please check the Before You Read section before continuing with the story.
Raina Montgomery has been my obsession since I was eleven years old. We met in secret, separated by a fence that kept her caged on her father’s property. But when we were discovered, she was ripped away from me, and I never saw her again.
She’s haunted me ever since, the girl who my parents were convinced was a figment of my imagination. But I could never let her go, even when I doubted my own memories.
The more I searched for any evidence of her existence, the further I drove myself into a state of disbelief and desperation.
Until I hear about the auction.
Held by Charles Montgomery himself, and what’s up for sale but his own daughter, unknown to the whole world until now.
But what he doesn’t know is that by revealing her identity, he’s placing himself directly in my sights, and I’ve never been known for my mercy. He’ll get what he deserves, and I’ll make sure Raina is free for the first time in her life.
A Twisted Gift is a Christmas romance novella with dark themes. Please check the Before You Read section before continuing with the story.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2024
382 people are currently reading
991 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
December 15, 2025
hmpf i wasn’t quite vibing with this for some reason idk 😪
December 31, 2024
The first half was surprisingly good. I kind of liked how obsessed Erik was of Raina. The second half I felt like it was a little off? Like how Raina was all of the sudden so brave that she could do harsh things to someone when she was so timid just a few pages before. Nontheless, It was a page turner.
P.S I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
P.S I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2024
literally squealed when Elliot, Oliver, and Rhett showed up
November 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶
🔥🔥.5
Definitely a more feel good instead of a true dark romance for the holidays.
Our FMC was trapped her whole life and hidden away so no one knows she exists. When she meets her neighbor, MMC, through the fence in her yard, it is the first time she has a friend, and he vows to never let her go.
The FMC is very much naive to almost everything in the world because she was kept away in essentially her bedroom for the majority of her life. When I say, she doesn't know much of anything, that air of innocence stays with her the whole book. On the flip side we have the MMC, who has been looking for her since they were kids, and his life has been dedicated to finding her. The moment he sees her again, he plans to kidnap her and free her from her family.
The romance is very much a sweet, feel good, type of romance. I would not say there is any 'dark' elements to the romance part of the book. The MMC seems to be morally grey personality wise, but I would say most of the book does not focus as much on that side of his character. He is always looking out for the FMC, and takes great care to get her comfortable to him and the world. Consent is also a huge part of this book, and there is nothing done without it. Of course read the triggers for more, but just know if anything happens in the book, it is clearly communicated between the two MC's.
My main issue for me from the book was the FMC still always sounding as she has never gone past an adolescent phase. She is in her early 20's, but the dialogue just felt less mature than I would have liked. Granted, she was kept away from everything, but she still had to interact with her older siblings and was able to sneak in modern books to read, so I expected a more mature dialogue. I also thought this book was going to be darker than it turned out to be. This can be completely on me however, since I am used to much darker books. Otherwise the book was enjoyable to read for the holiday season.
⟣Tropes⟢
❄️ Touch her and 💀
❄️ Dual POV’s (first person)
❄️ Virgin FMC
❄️ Friends-to-Lovers
❄️ Chase
❄️ Revenge
❄️ Consent all the way!
❄️ HEA
***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***
🌶🌶🌶
🔥🔥.5
Definitely a more feel good instead of a true dark romance for the holidays.
Our FMC was trapped her whole life and hidden away so no one knows she exists. When she meets her neighbor, MMC, through the fence in her yard, it is the first time she has a friend, and he vows to never let her go.
The FMC is very much naive to almost everything in the world because she was kept away in essentially her bedroom for the majority of her life. When I say, she doesn't know much of anything, that air of innocence stays with her the whole book. On the flip side we have the MMC, who has been looking for her since they were kids, and his life has been dedicated to finding her. The moment he sees her again, he plans to kidnap her and free her from her family.
The romance is very much a sweet, feel good, type of romance. I would not say there is any 'dark' elements to the romance part of the book. The MMC seems to be morally grey personality wise, but I would say most of the book does not focus as much on that side of his character. He is always looking out for the FMC, and takes great care to get her comfortable to him and the world. Consent is also a huge part of this book, and there is nothing done without it. Of course read the triggers for more, but just know if anything happens in the book, it is clearly communicated between the two MC's.
My main issue for me from the book was the FMC still always sounding as she has never gone past an adolescent phase. She is in her early 20's, but the dialogue just felt less mature than I would have liked. Granted, she was kept away from everything, but she still had to interact with her older siblings and was able to sneak in modern books to read, so I expected a more mature dialogue. I also thought this book was going to be darker than it turned out to be. This can be completely on me however, since I am used to much darker books. Otherwise the book was enjoyable to read for the holiday season.
⟣Tropes⟢
❄️ Touch her and 💀
❄️ Dual POV’s (first person)
❄️ Virgin FMC
❄️ Friends-to-Lovers
❄️ Chase
❄️ Revenge
❄️ Consent all the way!
❄️ HEA
***I was given this as an ARC for free and writing a review voluntary. All opinions are my own.***
December 10, 2024
A cute but dark short spicy story.
Erik and Raina meet when they are small, and the encounter doesn’t last long - but leaves a huge impression on both of them. Erik devotes his life to saving his Rose from her horrible family.
What I liked: the pace of the book was great, we got some backstory without going too much into detail. The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What I didn’t like: just some plot points where I was like huh, that really did happen, and then some unbelievable character traits
4/5 stars
Thank you to the author for this ARC
Erik and Raina meet when they are small, and the encounter doesn’t last long - but leaves a huge impression on both of them. Erik devotes his life to saving his Rose from her horrible family.
What I liked: the pace of the book was great, we got some backstory without going too much into detail. The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What I didn’t like: just some plot points where I was like huh, that really did happen, and then some unbelievable character traits
4/5 stars
Thank you to the author for this ARC
December 19, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was actually really good just felt like it was too short. I really want more of the main characters stories. The things they both went through were horrible but at least they didn't give up on each other.
This book was actually really good just felt like it was too short. I really want more of the main characters stories. The things they both went through were horrible but at least they didn't give up on each other.
December 2, 2024
An intriguing dark romance novella that I wasn't able to put down until the very end. After reading this, you'll definitely wish for a morally grey knight in shining armour to come save you and worship you.
November 29, 2024
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4.5
Plot: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3.5
**** ARC REVIEW****
**Remember to always check the trigger warnings before diving into these stories. As much as I will always praise Elira's books, they do touch on some pretty heavy topics and could potentially have an impact on your mental health. Always keep your mental health safe ☺️.
Once again, Elira has blown me away with her story in this recent book, always fascinated with the stories that her beautiful brain comes out with.
This book follows Raina and Erik's story, 2 new characters briefly interconnected in the same world as her popular series Ruthless Desires, yet still a completely separate story on its own. Raina is a young girl held captive in her own home by her father and kept hidden from the world for selfish reasons. Erik has been searching his whole life for his childhood secret best friend who was taken away from him much too soon. When he finally does manage to find her, and confirm that she was not in fact a figment of his imagination, his obsession to bring her home and keep her safe becomes all consuming.
Once within Erik's home, we start to see the depths of Raina's trauma and I gotta say Erik is just the absolute perfection of a man in Raina's healing process 🥰. He is so gentle yet affirmative with her needs and he will go the ends of the earth for any little thing she asks for. And my girl Raina, no matter everything that she had been put through, this girl's heart remains pure and happy with even the smallest of joys, just wanting to always see the goodness in everything and everyone around her amidst all the dark and decaying parts of this world. It was heartwarming to watch her progress from having fear and darkness overcloud her every moment of the day, to her becoming more confident and assertive; learning to trust herself and Erik, and not being afraid to stand her ground anymore. The way Erik navigates all of Raina's questions about the world and even the topic of sex, giving her all the space and time she needs to adjust. How he always shows her that this is her safe space and she never needs to be scared of communicating her needs to him. Everything he's done brought tears of contentment to my eyes. The two of them working together to put an end to that miserable home she was trapped in was the perfect wrap up to their journey and building a new life with each other.
The only downside I could say about this book is the pacing (as I always want these books to be much longer 😅). When dealing with the topics at hand for Raina's trauma, I did feel like her healing journey was a little short-lived for how quickly she started gaining her newly found confidence. Her resilience and strength however was well merited in the pacing. Certain events such as Ivan coming back to claim her I felt were also very quickly dealt with and not much interaction. But as this is a novella, stories are meant to be fast-paced so I felt it was well distributed in this storyline.
If you're looking for books with a realistic, empathetic, and relatable approach to mental health and trauma healing, Elira's books are the way to go. This story is definitely different from her usual works but she still stays true to usual writing style when representing mental health and trauma.
Plot: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3.5
**** ARC REVIEW****
**Remember to always check the trigger warnings before diving into these stories. As much as I will always praise Elira's books, they do touch on some pretty heavy topics and could potentially have an impact on your mental health. Always keep your mental health safe ☺️.
Once again, Elira has blown me away with her story in this recent book, always fascinated with the stories that her beautiful brain comes out with.
This book follows Raina and Erik's story, 2 new characters briefly interconnected in the same world as her popular series Ruthless Desires, yet still a completely separate story on its own. Raina is a young girl held captive in her own home by her father and kept hidden from the world for selfish reasons. Erik has been searching his whole life for his childhood secret best friend who was taken away from him much too soon. When he finally does manage to find her, and confirm that she was not in fact a figment of his imagination, his obsession to bring her home and keep her safe becomes all consuming.
Once within Erik's home, we start to see the depths of Raina's trauma and I gotta say Erik is just the absolute perfection of a man in Raina's healing process 🥰. He is so gentle yet affirmative with her needs and he will go the ends of the earth for any little thing she asks for. And my girl Raina, no matter everything that she had been put through, this girl's heart remains pure and happy with even the smallest of joys, just wanting to always see the goodness in everything and everyone around her amidst all the dark and decaying parts of this world. It was heartwarming to watch her progress from having fear and darkness overcloud her every moment of the day, to her becoming more confident and assertive; learning to trust herself and Erik, and not being afraid to stand her ground anymore. The way Erik navigates all of Raina's questions about the world and even the topic of sex, giving her all the space and time she needs to adjust. How he always shows her that this is her safe space and she never needs to be scared of communicating her needs to him. Everything he's done brought tears of contentment to my eyes. The two of them working together to put an end to that miserable home she was trapped in was the perfect wrap up to their journey and building a new life with each other.
The only downside I could say about this book is the pacing (as I always want these books to be much longer 😅). When dealing with the topics at hand for Raina's trauma, I did feel like her healing journey was a little short-lived for how quickly she started gaining her newly found confidence. Her resilience and strength however was well merited in the pacing. Certain events such as Ivan coming back to claim her I felt were also very quickly dealt with and not much interaction. But as this is a novella, stories are meant to be fast-paced so I felt it was well distributed in this storyline.
If you're looking for books with a realistic, empathetic, and relatable approach to mental health and trauma healing, Elira's books are the way to go. This story is definitely different from her usual works but she still stays true to usual writing style when representing mental health and trauma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2024
I had a great time reading A Twisted Gift by E. Firethorn as an ARC reader!
The story follows Raina, a young woman who has spent her entire life in isolation—limited education, minimal social interaction, and no connection to the world beyond her home. Erik, her childhood boy-next-door who has been obsessively drawn to her, returns after many years as a scarred man with a dark past intricately tied to Raina’s father. His singular goal is to save her, no matter the cost.
The narrative explores darker themes, but these elements are more of a backdrop to the characters’ inner struggles and the intense, all-consuming bond they share. Erik’s unwavering loyalty and care for Raina brings sweetness to the story that balances out its darker undertones.
I’ll admit, the “innocent FMC discovering the world” trope isn’t usually my favorite, but I appreciated how the author added layers to Raina’s character, giving her quiet strength rather than making her entirely passive. Erik was particularly compelling—his mix of emotional depth, scars (both literal and figurative), and moral complexity made him an interesting character. Their bond felt immediate and intense, though I would’ve loved to dive deeper into the roots of their obsession for each other over the years. A bit more exploration of their past connection could have added extra depth to the story.
The writing is smooth, entertaining, and easy to read. I did find it a bit difficult to picture the characters fully, as there weren’t many physical descriptions, but that’s a small critique.
Based on the blurb, I expected something darker and spicier, but this story leans more toward the lighter side of dark romance. It’s a great pick for readers who are new to the genre or for those who need a break from the more intense, chaotic reads. The emotional focus and the characters’ connection make it approachable without losing its edge.
A Twisted Gift balances emotional storytelling with just enough dramatic intensity to keep things captivating without being overwhelming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and its subtle Christmas backdrop makes it a nice addition to your TBR during this season.
The story follows Raina, a young woman who has spent her entire life in isolation—limited education, minimal social interaction, and no connection to the world beyond her home. Erik, her childhood boy-next-door who has been obsessively drawn to her, returns after many years as a scarred man with a dark past intricately tied to Raina’s father. His singular goal is to save her, no matter the cost.
The narrative explores darker themes, but these elements are more of a backdrop to the characters’ inner struggles and the intense, all-consuming bond they share. Erik’s unwavering loyalty and care for Raina brings sweetness to the story that balances out its darker undertones.
I’ll admit, the “innocent FMC discovering the world” trope isn’t usually my favorite, but I appreciated how the author added layers to Raina’s character, giving her quiet strength rather than making her entirely passive. Erik was particularly compelling—his mix of emotional depth, scars (both literal and figurative), and moral complexity made him an interesting character. Their bond felt immediate and intense, though I would’ve loved to dive deeper into the roots of their obsession for each other over the years. A bit more exploration of their past connection could have added extra depth to the story.
The writing is smooth, entertaining, and easy to read. I did find it a bit difficult to picture the characters fully, as there weren’t many physical descriptions, but that’s a small critique.
Based on the blurb, I expected something darker and spicier, but this story leans more toward the lighter side of dark romance. It’s a great pick for readers who are new to the genre or for those who need a break from the more intense, chaotic reads. The emotional focus and the characters’ connection make it approachable without losing its edge.
A Twisted Gift balances emotional storytelling with just enough dramatic intensity to keep things captivating without being overwhelming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and its subtle Christmas backdrop makes it a nice addition to your TBR during this season.
December 21, 2024
A Twisted Gift by E. Firethorn
I have loved everything that this author has written. I have fallen in love with her stories and her characters.
Rania has been locked away by her father because she is the child no one knows he has. She has been very sheltered and doesn't really know what goes on outside those walls. When she was younger she met a boy named Erik. They had developed a friendship but that all ended when her father caught her talking to him outside.
Ever since Erik had gotten pulled away from his little rose he has made it his mission to find his way back to her. He had been told she was just an imaginary friend, she wasn't real because no one had heard of another daughter in that family. Erik finds out there is an auction going on at that house he knows he needs to get in.
I loved how Erik and Rania made their way back to each other. I loved how he cared for her, gave her the space and didn't force the relationship on her as soon as he got her back. She couldn't believe he came back for her after all that time.
I have loved everything that this author has written. I have fallen in love with her stories and her characters.
Rania has been locked away by her father because she is the child no one knows he has. She has been very sheltered and doesn't really know what goes on outside those walls. When she was younger she met a boy named Erik. They had developed a friendship but that all ended when her father caught her talking to him outside.
Ever since Erik had gotten pulled away from his little rose he has made it his mission to find his way back to her. He had been told she was just an imaginary friend, she wasn't real because no one had heard of another daughter in that family. Erik finds out there is an auction going on at that house he knows he needs to get in.
I loved how Erik and Rania made their way back to each other. I loved how he cared for her, gave her the space and didn't force the relationship on her as soon as he got her back. She couldn't believe he came back for her after all that time.
November 28, 2024
A Twisted Gift
By E. Firethorn
5⭐️ 2🌶
-Childhood Friends to lovers
-Sheltered FMC
-Damaged MMC
-Touch her and ☠️
-Their Demons play well together
-Dual POV
I can not say enough good things about this book. It was SO sweet. She gave him roses?! He kept it 20 years?! He's vulnerable?! My heart. It melted. 🫠 Erik, the man that you are.
Told in dual POV with flashback scenes from 13 years ago, you'll experience a love story that flourishes into full bloom. Do check your TWs. I have read everything single book by E. Firethorn and I will continue to read every single one because they always exceed expectations! There's even a little easter egg from the Ruthless Desires series 😍😍😍
By E. Firethorn
5⭐️ 2🌶
-Childhood Friends to lovers
-Sheltered FMC
-Damaged MMC
-Touch her and ☠️
-Their Demons play well together
-Dual POV
I can not say enough good things about this book. It was SO sweet. She gave him roses?! He kept it 20 years?! He's vulnerable?! My heart. It melted. 🫠 Erik, the man that you are.
Told in dual POV with flashback scenes from 13 years ago, you'll experience a love story that flourishes into full bloom. Do check your TWs. I have read everything single book by E. Firethorn and I will continue to read every single one because they always exceed expectations! There's even a little easter egg from the Ruthless Desires series 😍😍😍
December 4, 2024
This is a fun novella. It is based around Christmas time but I didn’t feel it had a ton of Christmas themes so if you want a dark spicy novella with a touch of Christmas this is for you. I will say I would not categorize this as a dark romance as much as a romance with dark themes in the book. The romance is actually very sweet and they have mutually been obsessed with each other since they were kids but were separated by circumstances out of their control. Now as adults he has fought to find her and save her. Now that they have found each other they will stop at nothing to stay together. I gave it 4 stars because I felt the FMC changed personality to quickly and I was not able to suspend my belief that hard that she was just a different person literally overnight. The book is really good and I liked it a lot so don’t let that stop you from loving it too!
4 ⭐️
2.5🌶️
4 ⭐️
2.5🌶️
November 21, 2024
{ARC REVIEW}
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, this has to be the first dark Christmas romance I’ve read and you know what? It was actually pretty good, if you’re looking for something short and fast paced, this is for you.
Raina not experiencing life like everyone else in the book, broke my heart because she really trusted what her father made her believe. I’m glad she got her revenge in the end and that Marissa was able to be with her 😭
I love Erik, and the fact that he never gave up on his rose despite thinking he was going insane and believing she really wasn’t real. I’m glad he stuck around and fought for her freedom. The way he went out of his way to fill the Christmas tree with gifts JUST for her…. I NEED SOMEONE LIKE HIM.
THE SCREAM I SCRUMPT WHEN ELL, O, & RHETT MADE A CAMEO, THEY’LL ALWAYS BE MY BABIES 😭❤️
Thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, this has to be the first dark Christmas romance I’ve read and you know what? It was actually pretty good, if you’re looking for something short and fast paced, this is for you.
Raina not experiencing life like everyone else in the book, broke my heart because she really trusted what her father made her believe. I’m glad she got her revenge in the end and that Marissa was able to be with her 😭
I love Erik, and the fact that he never gave up on his rose despite thinking he was going insane and believing she really wasn’t real. I’m glad he stuck around and fought for her freedom. The way he went out of his way to fill the Christmas tree with gifts JUST for her…. I NEED SOMEONE LIKE HIM.
THE SCREAM I SCRUMPT WHEN ELL, O, & RHETT MADE A CAMEO, THEY’LL ALWAYS BE MY BABIES 😭❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2024
Thank you so much to the author for sending me this arc!
This was a very cute and fun holiday read, i definitely expected it to be darker and spicier than it was however this had the perfect mix of plot and spice in my opinion, i found the plot to be super cute and i actually really loved erik and raina and their dynamic was so cute! This wasn't as dark however still search up trigger warnings if you want to read this. This is very fast paced as it is a novella but it didn't feel fast paced it felt like it was perfectly paced and i really enjoyed this.
Tropes
Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
Touch her and die
He's obsessed
Light stalking
Favorite quotes
"Since i moved back home, i can't go more than a day without seeing my rose."
"I don't want to intimidate my rose. I want her to see me for who i am-- the same boy she met all those years ago. A man who's built a life around dreams of her."
"Beg for your life all you want, but no one hurts my girl and lives."
"I'm not your god. I worship you, remember? Not the other way around"
This was a very cute and fun holiday read, i definitely expected it to be darker and spicier than it was however this had the perfect mix of plot and spice in my opinion, i found the plot to be super cute and i actually really loved erik and raina and their dynamic was so cute! This wasn't as dark however still search up trigger warnings if you want to read this. This is very fast paced as it is a novella but it didn't feel fast paced it felt like it was perfectly paced and i really enjoyed this.
Tropes
Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
Touch her and die
He's obsessed
Light stalking
Favorite quotes
"Since i moved back home, i can't go more than a day without seeing my rose."
"I don't want to intimidate my rose. I want her to see me for who i am-- the same boy she met all those years ago. A man who's built a life around dreams of her."
"Beg for your life all you want, but no one hurts my girl and lives."
"I'm not your god. I worship you, remember? Not the other way around"
November 28, 2024
It was short, but it was perfect. Erik and Raina were soulmates. I’m happy they found each other again. Raina was so innocent but when she is with Erik. 😉
I want more of them!!!! Poor Raina and what she had to go through but also poor Erik his back story was sad.
I want more of them!!!! Poor Raina and what she had to go through but also poor Erik his back story was sad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2024
[ARC Review]
This being a short novella, I understand it's going to be fast paced, but I wasn't impressed with the characters. For one, I had a hard time understanding Erik's motive and love for Raina. Another, Raina is deemed as "innocent" main character, but she switched up extremely fast. I wasn't fully convinced of her character.
This being a short novella, I understand it's going to be fast paced, but I wasn't impressed with the characters. For one, I had a hard time understanding Erik's motive and love for Raina. Another, Raina is deemed as "innocent" main character, but she switched up extremely fast. I wasn't fully convinced of her character.
December 23, 2025
alright that one list on Instagram. you have failed me for the final time. this one wasn't as bad as the first one you made me read story-wise but the writing just...left much to be desired.
November 22, 2024
3.75⭐️
2🌶
My first "Christmas" book of 2024! Enjoyed the story, was fast-paced, well written. Only dropped its rating as I'm not big on insta-love, but if you love that, you will enjoy this!
2🌶
My first "Christmas" book of 2024! Enjoyed the story, was fast-paced, well written. Only dropped its rating as I'm not big on insta-love, but if you love that, you will enjoy this!
December 8, 2024
5/5 dedication - To anyone who's ever wanted to be loved with the intensity that you love yourself with.
Oh holy shit, this was good.
TROPES:
~childhood friends to lovers
~dark: kinks, serial killers, etc
~virgin heroine
~4 year age gap
~scarred hero
~second chance
~stalker
~true soulmates <3
~touch her and DIE (quite literally)
"Oh, that's it. Give it all to me, Raina. Such a good girl, aren't you?"
Oh man oh man oh man, this was GOOD. It's about Raina and Erik, who meet when they are just kids. Raina is a product of an affair and because of that, she's kept locked up in her father's mansion, quite literally, for her entire life. She's never been off her property and she's never had a friend, until she meets Erik, who talks to her through the fence.
Because nobody knows she exists, Erik's parents think that she's his imaginary friend. One day, Erik and Raina get caught and all he can do is watch from the fence as her father abuses her. He makes an oath, then and there, to save her.
Fast forward several years - he's 24 and she's 20. And he's back in his childhood home. He gets wind of her father holding an auction and learns that it's her being sold. He comes up with a plan and saves her. It takes some time, but she learns to trust him again. He teaches her about the world - about buckling up when inside a car, about credit cards, ice skating, everything. His devotion is unmatched to any other heroes I've read about recently. He wants her, but he would never force her.
Raina makes it HER mission to show him what all she wants. And boy, does she. She turns from an innocent girl to a desirable woman in days. She learns what she likes, and she loves everything Erik does for her. Omg, this book was a dark romance but in places it was oh so sweet.
"You're safe," he tells me. "I promise you, Raina. As long as I'm with you, you'll always be safe."
While I absolutely adored this book, there were indeed a few things I didn't like. One, he didn't wait for her. After losing her, he drowned his sorrows in woman AND men. It's just hinted at and there's no details, but I don't believe he was a manwhore. Another thing I didn't really like was the fact that he got snipped because they both didn't want to have kids. I'm used to reading epilogues with kids in them so this came as bit of a surprise! I don't blame them for wanting to be childfree, seeing as I am myself, but it was just a little disappointing. I'm not too disappointed to take away a star though.
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, I'm not sure if he's celibate or not, there's no mention of it!
OM/OW drama: absolutely NONE!
Cheating/sharing: NONE!
Triggers: parental abuse and neglect, domestic violence, bullying (from siblings), withholding food from FMC, suicidal thoughts from both FMC & MMC, misogyny, FMC is auctioned off, depression and anxiety, panic attacks, trauma/PTSD, death of MMC's parents, purity culture values, objectification of women, infidelity (FMC's dad cheated), and murder.
Kinks: bondage, CNC, dirty talk, "good girl" praise, hand necklace, primal/chasing, pushes it back inside, rough sex
HEA?: YES! <3
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
Oh holy shit, this was good.
TROPES:
~childhood friends to lovers
~dark: kinks, serial killers, etc
~virgin heroine
~4 year age gap
~scarred hero
~second chance
~stalker
~true soulmates <3
~touch her and DIE (quite literally)
"Oh, that's it. Give it all to me, Raina. Such a good girl, aren't you?"
Oh man oh man oh man, this was GOOD. It's about Raina and Erik, who meet when they are just kids. Raina is a product of an affair and because of that, she's kept locked up in her father's mansion, quite literally, for her entire life. She's never been off her property and she's never had a friend, until she meets Erik, who talks to her through the fence.
Because nobody knows she exists, Erik's parents think that she's his imaginary friend. One day, Erik and Raina get caught and all he can do is watch from the fence as her father abuses her. He makes an oath, then and there, to save her.
Fast forward several years - he's 24 and she's 20. And he's back in his childhood home. He gets wind of her father holding an auction and learns that it's her being sold. He comes up with a plan and saves her. It takes some time, but she learns to trust him again. He teaches her about the world - about buckling up when inside a car, about credit cards, ice skating, everything. His devotion is unmatched to any other heroes I've read about recently. He wants her, but he would never force her.
Raina makes it HER mission to show him what all she wants. And boy, does she. She turns from an innocent girl to a desirable woman in days. She learns what she likes, and she loves everything Erik does for her. Omg, this book was a dark romance but in places it was oh so sweet.
"You're safe," he tells me. "I promise you, Raina. As long as I'm with you, you'll always be safe."
While I absolutely adored this book, there were indeed a few things I didn't like. One, he didn't wait for her. After losing her, he drowned his sorrows in woman AND men. It's just hinted at and there's no details, but I don't believe he was a manwhore. Another thing I didn't really like was the fact that he got snipped because they both didn't want to have kids. I'm used to reading epilogues with kids in them so this came as bit of a surprise! I don't blame them for wanting to be childfree, seeing as I am myself, but it was just a little disappointing. I'm not too disappointed to take away a star though.
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, I'm not sure if he's celibate or not, there's no mention of it!
OM/OW drama: absolutely NONE!
Cheating/sharing: NONE!
Triggers: parental abuse and neglect, domestic violence, bullying (from siblings), withholding food from FMC, suicidal thoughts from both FMC & MMC, misogyny, FMC is auctioned off, depression and anxiety, panic attacks, trauma/PTSD, death of MMC's parents, purity culture values, objectification of women, infidelity (FMC's dad cheated), and murder.
Kinks: bondage, CNC, dirty talk, "good girl" praise, hand necklace, primal/chasing, pushes it back inside, rough sex
HEA?: YES! <3
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
November 20, 2024
It was a pleasure to read and review A Twisted Gift by E. Firethorn as an ARC reader. Her understanding of the darkness that lingers inside humanity's base nature is eloquently expressed and defined through her simple, straightforward, and detailed writing.
I applaud how this author built Raina's character- The FMC who lived her entire life as though she never existed, devoid of familial affection, never setting foot outside the mansion walls, completely untouched by any man, waiting to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Her innocence and naivety regarding the world around her is obvious and understandable given her lack of social interaction and academic education. Yet, the author made sure Raina wasn't a weak character; she held on to the image the childhood boy-next-door (Erik) as her eventual savior and hero.
But this golden retriever MMC has a dark, murderous history with Raina's father. He shouldn't even be alive, escaping with a wicked scar and PTSD that physically and emotionally marks him everywhere he goes. He has as many inner demons as Raina does, and these are what they struggle to navigate as they attempt to move forward with their lives.
The auction, the virginity, the abuse, the assault, that murder, the money, the power... These are all external conflicts within the story, but they are not the focus of the novel itself. Raina and Erik's inner conflicts are far more important in their character development than solving outside issues. Those can be (and are) taken care of quickly, but the issues that plague them both (mentally and emotionally) will last for a quite a while.
I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking to begin their Dark Romance journey. While it contains plenty of dark themes and explicit content (Check Your Triggers!), the story is written in such a way as to avoid overwhelming traumatizing the reader. Such a feat is hard to accomplish, but this author has done it with grace and elegance.
I wish it was more like a novella rather than a full-length novel. The last few chapters seemed unnecessary to me as a reader, though they do provide the necessary wrap-up and closure Raina and Erik's story needed. There are also instances where I believe we could've had more detailed, darker backstories and images woven throughout Raina's childhood, but again I don't think that was the author's goal when she wrote this, so the little background we have does work with the rest of the book.
I loved reading and review this book! It's a cute little Dark Romance 🖤 read perfect for the Christmas season! 🎄
I applaud how this author built Raina's character- The FMC who lived her entire life as though she never existed, devoid of familial affection, never setting foot outside the mansion walls, completely untouched by any man, waiting to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Her innocence and naivety regarding the world around her is obvious and understandable given her lack of social interaction and academic education. Yet, the author made sure Raina wasn't a weak character; she held on to the image the childhood boy-next-door (Erik) as her eventual savior and hero.
But this golden retriever MMC has a dark, murderous history with Raina's father. He shouldn't even be alive, escaping with a wicked scar and PTSD that physically and emotionally marks him everywhere he goes. He has as many inner demons as Raina does, and these are what they struggle to navigate as they attempt to move forward with their lives.
The auction, the virginity, the abuse, the assault, that murder, the money, the power... These are all external conflicts within the story, but they are not the focus of the novel itself. Raina and Erik's inner conflicts are far more important in their character development than solving outside issues. Those can be (and are) taken care of quickly, but the issues that plague them both (mentally and emotionally) will last for a quite a while.
I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking to begin their Dark Romance journey. While it contains plenty of dark themes and explicit content (Check Your Triggers!), the story is written in such a way as to avoid overwhelming traumatizing the reader. Such a feat is hard to accomplish, but this author has done it with grace and elegance.
I wish it was more like a novella rather than a full-length novel. The last few chapters seemed unnecessary to me as a reader, though they do provide the necessary wrap-up and closure Raina and Erik's story needed. There are also instances where I believe we could've had more detailed, darker backstories and images woven throughout Raina's childhood, but again I don't think that was the author's goal when she wrote this, so the little background we have does work with the rest of the book.
I loved reading and review this book! It's a cute little Dark Romance 🖤 read perfect for the Christmas season! 🎄
January 22, 2025
A Twisted Gift by E. Firethorn is a tour de force of dark romance that kept me gripped from start to finish! The beautifully crafted narrative weaves together elements of obsession, desire, and redemption, presenting a twisted love story that I simply couldn’t put down.
From the very first chapter, E. Firethorn pulls the reader into a hauntingly atmospheric world. Raina Montgomery is portrayed with such depth and complexity that I felt her joy, pain, and battleground of emotions as if they were my own. The intense connection between Raina and her mysterious captor—fifty shades darker than any sweet romance—adds a thrilling edge that constantly had me on the edge of my seat.
Firethorn does an exquisite job of pushing boundaries and exploring the consequences of obsession. The premise of mainly reuniting lovers who've been torn apart clocks in as unique—jailed by family, circumstances, and ultimately, hardened hearts. I found myself expertly vacillating between pity and empathy for Raina and her unexpected kidnapper, re-living the heart-wrenching moments from their past that shaped their present—every stolen glance and dirty little secret adding fuel to both their rage and ardent desire. It’s a twisted, sometimes painful, trip down memory lane, laced with flashes of hope that linger like snowflakes gently landing on a winter's night.
The writing itself feels almost lyrical with vivid descriptions that paint each scene vividly in my mind’s eye. Passage after passage had me shivering—not solely in delight but at the raw, pulse-quickening anticipation that built toward the climax of their darkly interwoven destinies. Firethorn strikes just the right balance between graphic and emotional, drawing on the reader’s deep-seated beliefs about love, possession, and redemption in truly captivating ways.
Each plot twist unfolded like clockwork, shocking yet plausible, pushing Raina and her captor further into a tangled web of their igniting past. The volatile chemistry between the characters sizzled and crackled, making for a thrilling emotional rollercoaster that mirrored the prickling tension of Christmas in the backdrop. Finally uncovering the true intricacies of their bond proved to be one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in romance novels lately.
A Twisted Gift isn't just a dark Christmas kidnapping romance; it's an experience—wonderfully evocative, intelligence wrapped in passion, exploring how far we're willing to go for love. I wholeheartedly recommend this book if you're looking for a gripping read that dives deep into the shadows of love and obsession. E. Firethorn demonstrates masterful storytelling, making me eagerly anticipate what they’ll conjure up next. This one’s in my heart, and it’s such a brilliantly woven tale of twisted love that I know I’ll return to it time and again!
From the very first chapter, E. Firethorn pulls the reader into a hauntingly atmospheric world. Raina Montgomery is portrayed with such depth and complexity that I felt her joy, pain, and battleground of emotions as if they were my own. The intense connection between Raina and her mysterious captor—fifty shades darker than any sweet romance—adds a thrilling edge that constantly had me on the edge of my seat.
Firethorn does an exquisite job of pushing boundaries and exploring the consequences of obsession. The premise of mainly reuniting lovers who've been torn apart clocks in as unique—jailed by family, circumstances, and ultimately, hardened hearts. I found myself expertly vacillating between pity and empathy for Raina and her unexpected kidnapper, re-living the heart-wrenching moments from their past that shaped their present—every stolen glance and dirty little secret adding fuel to both their rage and ardent desire. It’s a twisted, sometimes painful, trip down memory lane, laced with flashes of hope that linger like snowflakes gently landing on a winter's night.
The writing itself feels almost lyrical with vivid descriptions that paint each scene vividly in my mind’s eye. Passage after passage had me shivering—not solely in delight but at the raw, pulse-quickening anticipation that built toward the climax of their darkly interwoven destinies. Firethorn strikes just the right balance between graphic and emotional, drawing on the reader’s deep-seated beliefs about love, possession, and redemption in truly captivating ways.
Each plot twist unfolded like clockwork, shocking yet plausible, pushing Raina and her captor further into a tangled web of their igniting past. The volatile chemistry between the characters sizzled and crackled, making for a thrilling emotional rollercoaster that mirrored the prickling tension of Christmas in the backdrop. Finally uncovering the true intricacies of their bond proved to be one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in romance novels lately.
A Twisted Gift isn't just a dark Christmas kidnapping romance; it's an experience—wonderfully evocative, intelligence wrapped in passion, exploring how far we're willing to go for love. I wholeheartedly recommend this book if you're looking for a gripping read that dives deep into the shadows of love and obsession. E. Firethorn demonstrates masterful storytelling, making me eagerly anticipate what they’ll conjure up next. This one’s in my heart, and it’s such a brilliantly woven tale of twisted love that I know I’ll return to it time and again!
March 12, 2025
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
‘A Twisted Gift’ presents an intriguing concept with a blend of dark fantasy and romance. While the premise is strong and the book has moments of brilliance, it doesn’t fully deliver on the depth and darkness I had anticipated. Still, it’s an enjoyable read with unique elements that set it apart from more traditional romances.
Plot: ★★★☆☆
The core idea of the plot is fantastic - it weaves mystery, tension, and an almost fairy tale-like quality into the storytelling. However, I found it a little lacking in depth. Some elements felt underdeveloped, and there were moments where I expected more complexity or a deeper exploration of certain themes. It wasn’t as dark as I was anticipating, which might be a plus for some readers, but I personally would have liked to see the tension and stakes pushed further.
Character: ★★★☆☆
The characters are compelling, but they don’t always feel fully fleshed out. There are moments where their personalities or motivations seem contradictory, making it difficult to truly connect with them. While they have intriguing dynamics, I would have liked more development and consistency in their growth throughout the story. That being said, their interactions and chemistry do add an engaging layer to the book.
Setting: ★★★☆☆
The setting had potential, but I struggled to fully picture it based on the descriptions. Certain locations felt vague or inconsistently detailed, which made it harder to immerse myself in the world. I would have loved more atmospheric writing to really bring the setting to life and make it feel as tangible as the story’s themes.
Engagement: ★★★☆☆
The book kept me engaged, but I found myself wanting more depth and intensity. The pacing was decent, but certain sections felt like they were skimming over details that could have made the story more immersive. Some moments were captivating, while others left me wanting more buildup and emotional payoff.
Readability: ★★★☆☆
The writing is accessible and easy to follow, but there were areas where I felt the prose could have been stronger. Some passages felt rushed or underexplained, which took away from the overall impact of the story. That said, the book is still enjoyable and doesn’t feel like a slog to get through.
Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
While I enjoyed the book, I didn’t find myself completely absorbed in it. It had all the right pieces - an intriguing premise, solid character dynamics, and a mysterious atmosphere - but it didn’t quite reach its full potential. It’s still a good read, but it left me wishing for more depth, tension, and consistency.
‘A Twisted Gift’ is an intriguing book with a great concept, but it doesn’t fully deliver on its potential. It’s enjoyable, especially for readers who like lighter dark romance, but it could have used more depth in character development, worldbuilding, and plot tension. If you go in with the right expectations, it’s still a worthwhile read, but it might not leave a lasting impact.
‘A Twisted Gift’ presents an intriguing concept with a blend of dark fantasy and romance. While the premise is strong and the book has moments of brilliance, it doesn’t fully deliver on the depth and darkness I had anticipated. Still, it’s an enjoyable read with unique elements that set it apart from more traditional romances.
Plot: ★★★☆☆
The core idea of the plot is fantastic - it weaves mystery, tension, and an almost fairy tale-like quality into the storytelling. However, I found it a little lacking in depth. Some elements felt underdeveloped, and there were moments where I expected more complexity or a deeper exploration of certain themes. It wasn’t as dark as I was anticipating, which might be a plus for some readers, but I personally would have liked to see the tension and stakes pushed further.
Character: ★★★☆☆
The characters are compelling, but they don’t always feel fully fleshed out. There are moments where their personalities or motivations seem contradictory, making it difficult to truly connect with them. While they have intriguing dynamics, I would have liked more development and consistency in their growth throughout the story. That being said, their interactions and chemistry do add an engaging layer to the book.
Setting: ★★★☆☆
The setting had potential, but I struggled to fully picture it based on the descriptions. Certain locations felt vague or inconsistently detailed, which made it harder to immerse myself in the world. I would have loved more atmospheric writing to really bring the setting to life and make it feel as tangible as the story’s themes.
Engagement: ★★★☆☆
The book kept me engaged, but I found myself wanting more depth and intensity. The pacing was decent, but certain sections felt like they were skimming over details that could have made the story more immersive. Some moments were captivating, while others left me wanting more buildup and emotional payoff.
Readability: ★★★☆☆
The writing is accessible and easy to follow, but there were areas where I felt the prose could have been stronger. Some passages felt rushed or underexplained, which took away from the overall impact of the story. That said, the book is still enjoyable and doesn’t feel like a slog to get through.
Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
While I enjoyed the book, I didn’t find myself completely absorbed in it. It had all the right pieces - an intriguing premise, solid character dynamics, and a mysterious atmosphere - but it didn’t quite reach its full potential. It’s still a good read, but it left me wishing for more depth, tension, and consistency.
‘A Twisted Gift’ is an intriguing book with a great concept, but it doesn’t fully deliver on its potential. It’s enjoyable, especially for readers who like lighter dark romance, but it could have used more depth in character development, worldbuilding, and plot tension. If you go in with the right expectations, it’s still a worthwhile read, but it might not leave a lasting impact.
December 24, 2024
Imagine spending twenty years hidden away, shrouded in secrecy as your father’s dirty little secret. That’s Raina’s reality—her world reduced to the boundaries of her family home, utterly isolated from the outside world. Yet, even in her bleak existence, there was a fleeting moment of light: a childhood friendship with a boy named Erik. But their connection was snuffed out almost as soon as it began, torn apart by her father’s iron grip. Unbeknownst to Raina, their brief encounter became Erik’s obsession, his guiding star in an unrelenting quest to find the girl who seemed to vanish into thin air. Thirteen years later, Erik finally succeeds, and the real story begins. What can I say about Erik? He’s the epitome of devotion, a morally grey hero with a heart full of unwavering love. Despite the odds, the doubts, and even questioning his own sanity, he never gave up on his "little rose." When he finally finds her, Erik doesn’t just rescue Raina from her father’s clutches; he helps her navigate a world she’s never known. Watching Raina experience the simplest joys is a testament to her resilience and Erik’s care. The world might have been overwhelming, but with Erik by her side, Raina discovered not only safety but a future brimming with possibilities. Erik’s love for Raina is as selfless as it is consuming. He doesn’t demand gratitude or repayment, even though he’s risked everything to free her. In fact, when Raina tentatively confesses her feelings, he insists she takes her time to heal and adjust to her new reality. It’s this patience and understanding that make Erik not just a hero, but an unforgettable one in my eyes. Of course, Erik’s character is tinged with darkness. His obsession and willingness to do whatever it takes blur the line between protector and avenger. But Raina, for all her innocence, surprises us all with her own capacity for ruthlessness. Her lack of hesitation when faced with murder, particularly when it came to her father, was a shocking little twist. Though I wholeheartedly cheered for her father’s demise (and who wouldn’t), it felt slightly incongruous with the naive, sheltered young woman we had come to know. Though marketed as a dark romance, this story is unexpectedly tender. It touches on heavy topics but ultimately feels more sweet than sinister; a perfect gateway for readers curious about the genre but wary of its darker edges. It’s a love story rooted in healing and hope, proving that even in the shadow of trauma, light and love can bloom.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶/5
TW - parental abuse and neglect starting at a very young age of the child, domestic violence, bullying (from siblings), withholding of food from a MC, suicidal thoughts from a MC, misogyny, an MC being auctioned off, depression and anxiety, a panic attack, very realistic depictions of trauma, parental death (murder), purity culture values, objectification of women, infidelity (parents, past, mentioned), graphic murder, blood, knife violence, gun violence, breaking and entering, alcohol consumption, nightmares, illegal business activities (incl drugs, people, weapons), arson
CW - bondage, CNC, primal play (chasing), hand necklace
Tropes - obsessed, dark, Christmas
Representation - mental health rep, queer rep
Don't you just love when Christmas lights are an accessory to murder??
Raina (FMC) is sheltered and not in a sweet innocent way, more of a, her dad is a prick way. Her dad bagged on this innocence to try and make some money but Erik (MMC) was like fuck no xoxo
I enjoyed this book and Raina and Erik being able to reunite over so many years. Erik is not obsessed with Raina's virginity or even taking it and, while I love the alpha male x virgin heroine trope, I found that I was also a big fan of him being so unbothered by it and putting her needs and comfort above all - very hot
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶/5
TW - parental abuse and neglect starting at a very young age of the child, domestic violence, bullying (from siblings), withholding of food from a MC, suicidal thoughts from a MC, misogyny, an MC being auctioned off, depression and anxiety, a panic attack, very realistic depictions of trauma, parental death (murder), purity culture values, objectification of women, infidelity (parents, past, mentioned), graphic murder, blood, knife violence, gun violence, breaking and entering, alcohol consumption, nightmares, illegal business activities (incl drugs, people, weapons), arson
CW - bondage, CNC, primal play (chasing), hand necklace
Tropes - obsessed, dark, Christmas
Representation - mental health rep, queer rep
Don't you just love when Christmas lights are an accessory to murder??
Raina (FMC) is sheltered and not in a sweet innocent way, more of a, her dad is a prick way. Her dad bagged on this innocence to try and make some money but Erik (MMC) was like fuck no xoxo
I enjoyed this book and Raina and Erik being able to reunite over so many years. Erik is not obsessed with Raina's virginity or even taking it and, while I love the alpha male x virgin heroine trope, I found that I was also a big fan of him being so unbothered by it and putting her needs and comfort above all - very hot
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List
December 7, 2024
This certainly had the potential to be one of the best things I have ever read but unfortunately it falls short.
The writing style was easy to read and flowed beautifully. I don’t have a single complaint there. In fact, I look forward to exploring more from this author.
The storyline, however, was rushed and severely lacking. I feel like a lot goes on in this book and we only touch the surface. Everything is glossed over.
I can’t even begin to tell you how painful it was to long for more.
One thing I will say is that the pacing was even. I never felt like any given part of the book was given more attention to detail than the others. There is undeniable consistency here.
Raina kind of gave me the ick. I totally understand that she was completely innocent and incredibly naive given the circumstances of her upbringing, that wasn’t the problem. But because of this, she was almost too childish for me. I had to skim the few spicy bits because it was so cringe to me since her character seemed so much like a child to me.
Erick, on the other hand, was amazing. Who doesn’t want a man to save us and protect us? He is a great book boyfriend and I have no complaints about him. Except maybe his questionable love interest.
More on the ick… I wasn’t a fan of the insta love. I cannot wrap my head around meeting someone a few times when you a kid, not seeing them for several years, and then suddenly being reconnected and completely in love. Nope. Not realistic whatsoever.
The climaxes in this book were extremely lackluster. And I mean all the climaxes. The spicy bits were not only icky to me but a lot less often than what I usually read. And the literal climax of the story was a tad bland.
I honestly think if the story had more depth, it was be an immediate 4+ stars for me. The storyline was flawless, though, and I wouldn’t change a thing about the events in this book.
Despite my complaints, this wasn’t a terrible book and I have no regrets reading this one. I probably wouldn’t reread it though.
If you are looking for a quick read, this is definitely something to consider.
If you need more depth to your books, I would probably avoid this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The writing style was easy to read and flowed beautifully. I don’t have a single complaint there. In fact, I look forward to exploring more from this author.
The storyline, however, was rushed and severely lacking. I feel like a lot goes on in this book and we only touch the surface. Everything is glossed over.
I can’t even begin to tell you how painful it was to long for more.
One thing I will say is that the pacing was even. I never felt like any given part of the book was given more attention to detail than the others. There is undeniable consistency here.
Raina kind of gave me the ick. I totally understand that she was completely innocent and incredibly naive given the circumstances of her upbringing, that wasn’t the problem. But because of this, she was almost too childish for me. I had to skim the few spicy bits because it was so cringe to me since her character seemed so much like a child to me.
Erick, on the other hand, was amazing. Who doesn’t want a man to save us and protect us? He is a great book boyfriend and I have no complaints about him. Except maybe his questionable love interest.
More on the ick… I wasn’t a fan of the insta love. I cannot wrap my head around meeting someone a few times when you a kid, not seeing them for several years, and then suddenly being reconnected and completely in love. Nope. Not realistic whatsoever.
The climaxes in this book were extremely lackluster. And I mean all the climaxes. The spicy bits were not only icky to me but a lot less often than what I usually read. And the literal climax of the story was a tad bland.
I honestly think if the story had more depth, it was be an immediate 4+ stars for me. The storyline was flawless, though, and I wouldn’t change a thing about the events in this book.
Despite my complaints, this wasn’t a terrible book and I have no regrets reading this one. I probably wouldn’t reread it though.
If you are looking for a quick read, this is definitely something to consider.
If you need more depth to your books, I would probably avoid this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2024
[arc review]
Thank you to the author for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
A Twisted Gift releases December 2, 2024
2.75
As a byproduct of an affair, Raina has grown up imprisoned in her own home, never having set foot off of the Montgomery property. But on the cusp of Christmas, her life changes when her father puts her up for auction at his annual party, and her long-lost friend from next door kidnaps her.
Readers who enjoy obsessive male leads, sheltered and inexperienced heroines, the nightmare trope, and themes that explore parental abuse, neglect, trauma, and power dynamics will likely love this.
For me, I had a hard time understanding how Erik built up Raina to such a high degree for thirteen years while establishing an empire and planning to save her, yet the best he could do was rescue her to the house that neighbours the one she was imprisoned in for twenty years? I would not have found much comfort or assurance in the fact that her existence was easily visible from a bedroom window. What if their cars crossed paths on the same road going in and out of their homes the day Erik took Raina out?
With all of Charles Montgomery’s guards, I’m supposed to believe that he’s not going to look into the person who just moved into the property next door to him? Especially when it’s been sitting vacant for years, and he played a hand in killing the previous occupants?
I wasn’t quite sold on the romance, or Raina’s quick commitment to killing her entire family within a day. Everything was just so rushed. Having her fall in love with the singular person she’s ever met outside of her family and their staff was leaning more towards Stockholm syndrome.
I think it was a huge missed opportunity to not have utilized Erik’s two-week occurrence of slipping into Raina’s bedroom as a way to provide a stronger emotional bond and possibly even have them collude with each other — imagine him leaving a rose the first night, a paper airplane the second, and her being curious enough to wait up the third night and coming face-to-face with him! Ugh the possibilities.
Thank you to the author for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
A Twisted Gift releases December 2, 2024
2.75
As a byproduct of an affair, Raina has grown up imprisoned in her own home, never having set foot off of the Montgomery property. But on the cusp of Christmas, her life changes when her father puts her up for auction at his annual party, and her long-lost friend from next door kidnaps her.
Readers who enjoy obsessive male leads, sheltered and inexperienced heroines, the nightmare trope, and themes that explore parental abuse, neglect, trauma, and power dynamics will likely love this.
For me, I had a hard time understanding how Erik built up Raina to such a high degree for thirteen years while establishing an empire and planning to save her, yet the best he could do was rescue her to the house that neighbours the one she was imprisoned in for twenty years? I would not have found much comfort or assurance in the fact that her existence was easily visible from a bedroom window. What if their cars crossed paths on the same road going in and out of their homes the day Erik took Raina out?
With all of Charles Montgomery’s guards, I’m supposed to believe that he’s not going to look into the person who just moved into the property next door to him? Especially when it’s been sitting vacant for years, and he played a hand in killing the previous occupants?
I wasn’t quite sold on the romance, or Raina’s quick commitment to killing her entire family within a day. Everything was just so rushed. Having her fall in love with the singular person she’s ever met outside of her family and their staff was leaning more towards Stockholm syndrome.
I think it was a huge missed opportunity to not have utilized Erik’s two-week occurrence of slipping into Raina’s bedroom as a way to provide a stronger emotional bond and possibly even have them collude with each other — imagine him leaving a rose the first night, a paper airplane the second, and her being curious enough to wait up the third night and coming face-to-face with him! Ugh the possibilities.
December 14, 2024
This novella was kind of addicting. The MCs were so likable too. Raina was so sweet and Erik was so gone for her it made my heart ache.
This story is told in dual POV between Erik and Raina. Raina is the illegitimate child of a really fucked up man. She was kept locked away in her room and only ever let out sparingly throughout the mansion. Her sister Marissa is the only person in her family to actually care about her. Because of her isolation, she has the innocence of a child. She was never even given an education. Everything she learned mostly came from her sister trying to teach her as she learned. Once she reached adulthood her father set up an auction to sell her. Erik is also from a wealthy family but his parents died when he was young so he went to live with his uncle under a different last name for protection. He had an obsession with Raina since he met her when they were children. He would meet her at the fence and play with her. Once her father found out they were forcibly separated. But that same pull towards each other never disappeared.
Their love story was so cute. I also loved how the author portrayed Raina's naivity. You can see her struggle to learn new concepts and try to make sense of the world around her through such a childlike mindset. To see her character development was astonishing. She stayed so consistent with Raina's innocence and learning developments that there was never any question about what Raina had gone through and what it took her to get to where she ended up. I love Erik. His dedication to his little Rose was so beautiful. I felt his deep love for her through the pages. I could also feel his inner struggle in trying to be himself but put Raina's needs before his own.
Raina's family though (excluding Marissa) got what they deserve. They were a bunch of evil people and I couldn't stand them. I was waiting so impatiently for them to get what was coming to them.
This novella put me through a range of emotions and I definitely enjoyed the ride.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is told in dual POV between Erik and Raina. Raina is the illegitimate child of a really fucked up man. She was kept locked away in her room and only ever let out sparingly throughout the mansion. Her sister Marissa is the only person in her family to actually care about her. Because of her isolation, she has the innocence of a child. She was never even given an education. Everything she learned mostly came from her sister trying to teach her as she learned. Once she reached adulthood her father set up an auction to sell her. Erik is also from a wealthy family but his parents died when he was young so he went to live with his uncle under a different last name for protection. He had an obsession with Raina since he met her when they were children. He would meet her at the fence and play with her. Once her father found out they were forcibly separated. But that same pull towards each other never disappeared.
Their love story was so cute. I also loved how the author portrayed Raina's naivity. You can see her struggle to learn new concepts and try to make sense of the world around her through such a childlike mindset. To see her character development was astonishing. She stayed so consistent with Raina's innocence and learning developments that there was never any question about what Raina had gone through and what it took her to get to where she ended up. I love Erik. His dedication to his little Rose was so beautiful. I felt his deep love for her through the pages. I could also feel his inner struggle in trying to be himself but put Raina's needs before his own.
Raina's family though (excluding Marissa) got what they deserve. They were a bunch of evil people and I couldn't stand them. I was waiting so impatiently for them to get what was coming to them.
This novella put me through a range of emotions and I definitely enjoyed the ride.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 (rounded up for rating)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
Although I personally found this to be on the lighter gray side of dark romance, the plot does explore darker themes that can be triggering. Please check your TWs & stay safe, friends!
🎄Ladynapping
🩸OTT Protective MMC
🎄Cozy Following of FMC by MMC
🩸Bøndage
🎄CNC
🩸Chasing
🎄Mutual Obsession of One Another
🩸Touch Her & 💀
🎄After All This Time…
Raina Montgomery has been sheltered her entire life: no friends, no schooling, and no love from her family. Kept under lock and key as the illegitimate child of her wealthy father who wanted to avoid a social scandal due to his infidelity, Raina leads a lonely and fearful existence.
Erik met Raina Montgomery when he was eleven years old, and she has been the object of his obsession ever since. They would meet in secret, separated by the fence that kept her caged from the world on her father’s property. When Raina’s father discovered she’d been meeting up with the boy next door, she was ripped away from Erik and he never saw her again. Erik vowed that day that he would save her.
In trying to uphold his vow, Erik searched for evidence of Raina’s existence, but only rumors that faded like mist were within his grasp. Until Erik gets word of an auction hosted by Raina’s father–the sale of his own daughter, unknown to the world until now.
With 13 years dedicated to his vow, Erik will stop at nothing to take what’s his, and nothing will stand in his way.
~~~
I enjoyed the intense emotional connection and focus on the bond between Erik and Raina that started in their youth and kept them anchored while dealing with unspeakable trauma. Both MCs' past experiences added character depth and shaped their penchant for seeking justice in a violent way. I also liked that when given the chance, Raina was able to have a sense of agency and wasn’t passive (which tends to happen with the “innocent FMC experiencing the world for the first time” trope, so I’m glad that wasn’t the case here).
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
Although I personally found this to be on the lighter gray side of dark romance, the plot does explore darker themes that can be triggering. Please check your TWs & stay safe, friends!
🎄Ladynapping
🩸OTT Protective MMC
🎄Cozy Following of FMC by MMC
🩸Bøndage
🎄CNC
🩸Chasing
🎄Mutual Obsession of One Another
🩸Touch Her & 💀
🎄After All This Time…
Raina Montgomery has been sheltered her entire life: no friends, no schooling, and no love from her family. Kept under lock and key as the illegitimate child of her wealthy father who wanted to avoid a social scandal due to his infidelity, Raina leads a lonely and fearful existence.
Erik met Raina Montgomery when he was eleven years old, and she has been the object of his obsession ever since. They would meet in secret, separated by the fence that kept her caged from the world on her father’s property. When Raina’s father discovered she’d been meeting up with the boy next door, she was ripped away from Erik and he never saw her again. Erik vowed that day that he would save her.
In trying to uphold his vow, Erik searched for evidence of Raina’s existence, but only rumors that faded like mist were within his grasp. Until Erik gets word of an auction hosted by Raina’s father–the sale of his own daughter, unknown to the world until now.
With 13 years dedicated to his vow, Erik will stop at nothing to take what’s his, and nothing will stand in his way.
~~~
I enjoyed the intense emotional connection and focus on the bond between Erik and Raina that started in their youth and kept them anchored while dealing with unspeakable trauma. Both MCs' past experiences added character depth and shaped their penchant for seeking justice in a violent way. I also liked that when given the chance, Raina was able to have a sense of agency and wasn’t passive (which tends to happen with the “innocent FMC experiencing the world for the first time” trope, so I’m glad that wasn’t the case here).
December 3, 2024
Twisted Gift is a compelling read that leans toward feel-good, white Knight/damsel in distress romance rather than the darker, grittier tones you might expect from the premise. Perfect for cozy holiday reading, it delivers a unique blend of innocence and devotion between its leads.
The FMC has lived her life in isolation, hidden from the world by her overbearing family. Meeting her neighbor, the MMC, through the fence sparks her first taste of freedom—and friendship. Her naivety, born from years of solitude, remains a defining trait throughout the book, lending an air of sweetness and innocence to the story.
The MMC, on the other hand, has spent his life determined to find her after a shared moment in childhood. His loyalty and quiet protectiveness shine through as he makes it his mission to liberate her—though his methods skirt the edges of morally grey territory. However, the romance itself stays firmly in the realm of tender and respectful, with a strong emphasis on consent and care. Every step in their relationship feels earned, as the MMC ensures the FMC is comfortable with every decision.
For those seeking darker undertones, you might find this book lighter than anticipated. While the MMC’s past hints at a grittier side, the story focuses more on building a safe, nurturing environment for the FMC to thrive in rather than delving deeply into his morally ambiguous actions.
One critique lies in the FMC’s dialogue, which at times feels overly youthful for her age. Though her isolation explains much of her naivety, moments of maturity could have balanced her characterization better, especially given her access to books and brief interactions with her siblings.
Tropes You’ll Love:
• Touch her and you’re dead
• Dual POV (First Person)
• Virgin FMC
• Friends-to-Lovers
• Protective MMC with a morally grey streak
• Consent-driven romance
Trigger Warnings: Be sure to check these before diving in!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The FMC has lived her life in isolation, hidden from the world by her overbearing family. Meeting her neighbor, the MMC, through the fence sparks her first taste of freedom—and friendship. Her naivety, born from years of solitude, remains a defining trait throughout the book, lending an air of sweetness and innocence to the story.
The MMC, on the other hand, has spent his life determined to find her after a shared moment in childhood. His loyalty and quiet protectiveness shine through as he makes it his mission to liberate her—though his methods skirt the edges of morally grey territory. However, the romance itself stays firmly in the realm of tender and respectful, with a strong emphasis on consent and care. Every step in their relationship feels earned, as the MMC ensures the FMC is comfortable with every decision.
For those seeking darker undertones, you might find this book lighter than anticipated. While the MMC’s past hints at a grittier side, the story focuses more on building a safe, nurturing environment for the FMC to thrive in rather than delving deeply into his morally ambiguous actions.
One critique lies in the FMC’s dialogue, which at times feels overly youthful for her age. Though her isolation explains much of her naivety, moments of maturity could have balanced her characterization better, especially given her access to books and brief interactions with her siblings.
Tropes You’ll Love:
• Touch her and you’re dead
• Dual POV (First Person)
• Virgin FMC
• Friends-to-Lovers
• Protective MMC with a morally grey streak
• Consent-driven romance
Trigger Warnings: Be sure to check these before diving in!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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