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Venom
Cleobella Hawke is an assassin for the richest man alive. Since she was young, her job has been to take out the men who have wronged William Sallow—and to conveniently make the men that he has wronged disappear.
Over the years, Cleo has learned to take a certain pride in being the most valued assassin on his estate. But when William tries to force her into a marriage with his son—and refuses to take no for an answer—she decides it’s time to find a way out.
Taking matters into her own hands proves useless, though, when William turns up unexpectedly dead.
Once Cleo drags her colleague, Darius Rhode, into her mess, the two of them work together to figure out what happened to William while simultaneously trying to keep their names clear in the investigation—things that quickly become more than they bargained for.
Cleo begins receiving cryptic notes regarding her intentions toward William before his death. People show up and claim rights to the manor, as well as their contracts, leaving them with no way out. And time spent together only manages to add fuel to the fire…as well as twist Cleo’s mind even further.
Choosing who and what to believe isn’t easy when you’ve been taught to never trust a soul—especially those closest to you.
After all…there’s always a viper in the nest.
Over the years, Cleo has learned to take a certain pride in being the most valued assassin on his estate. But when William tries to force her into a marriage with his son—and refuses to take no for an answer—she decides it’s time to find a way out.
Taking matters into her own hands proves useless, though, when William turns up unexpectedly dead.
Once Cleo drags her colleague, Darius Rhode, into her mess, the two of them work together to figure out what happened to William while simultaneously trying to keep their names clear in the investigation—things that quickly become more than they bargained for.
Cleo begins receiving cryptic notes regarding her intentions toward William before his death. People show up and claim rights to the manor, as well as their contracts, leaving them with no way out. And time spent together only manages to add fuel to the fire…as well as twist Cleo’s mind even further.
Choosing who and what to believe isn’t easy when you’ve been taught to never trust a soul—especially those closest to you.
After all…there’s always a viper in the nest.
Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
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79 people want to read
About the author
Anna Grace
4 books48 followersAnna Grace writes books as a way to connect with others and escape reality. Born and raised in Missouri, she lives with her family and pets, most of which are cats. When she’s not writing, she can be found with a book in her hand, always ready to discuss a current read—often to unwilling recipients. You can keep in touch with Anna on Instagram and TikTok (@authorannagrace).
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February 3, 2025I was kindly approved for this book as an ARC and y'all.. i haven't read a book THIS fast in a LONGGGG time. I startdd it at 10 am today and all throughout the day whenever I'd get a chance, I'd read on my kindle app because it is THAT addictive. The story is so fast paced and the mystery is SOOO intriguing; I personally didnt see any of the twists coming and the fact that they're both assassins?? I am a goner.
The way this man LOVES her, I was sobbing by the end because of how sweet he is. I will be for sure purchasing a physical copy when it releases on february 25th SO EVERYBODY GO MARK IT ON YOUR CALENDAR RIGHT NOW🫵🫵🫵🫵
The way this man LOVES her, I was sobbing by the end because of how sweet he is. I will be for sure purchasing a physical copy when it releases on february 25th SO EVERYBODY GO MARK IT ON YOUR CALENDAR RIGHT NOW🫵🫵🫵🫵
February 9, 2025
Wow. I want to start by saying thank you so incredibly much to Anna for allowing me to ARC read this one. That’s the fastest I’ve ever read a book. I finished this book last night but waited to mark it as finished till today so I could write my review and let me just say. Wow. I’ve been in a major slump after reading Onyx Storm. So much so that every time I pick up a book I read one page and then put it down but this one had me hooked. Anytime I read one of Anna’s books she completely changes my perspective on so many things but the main thing she changes my perspective on is friendship. I can’t even explain how she does it, she just does. Everything about this book kept me hooked. The romance, the story, the friendship, all of it was amazing. I loved every bit of it to pieces but for some reason, with this one, the friendship aspect stuck out to me so much. The friendship between Cleobella and Mira was beautiful and real and so genuine, and the unexpected friendship between Elsie and the two of them was beautiful. I don’t think I could ever NOT love a book Anna writes. It was so fast paced while still keeping you hooked and I’m so grateful I got to read it early. Highly recommend picking this one up when it comes out. It was amazing. And to Anna. Girl, you are doing amazing things and I could not be more proud of you. Keep writing. Keep telling your stories, because they are beautiful and deserve so so so much recognition. ❤️
February 14, 2025
4.75 🌟
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Anna Grace, for giving me this ARC.
I loved this. The plot was so well thought out. All the little easter eggs were so elegantly done. When I say this is so well written I mean it. This read so fluently, I didn't even notice that time passed. I enjoyed the mystery aspects of this book, and I was trying to figure it out myself. Every time I tried, there would be another plot twist that made me doubt my theories.
I can't wait to see with what Anna will come up with because I definitely will be reading it!
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Anna Grace, for giving me this ARC.
I loved this. The plot was so well thought out. All the little easter eggs were so elegantly done. When I say this is so well written I mean it. This read so fluently, I didn't even notice that time passed. I enjoyed the mystery aspects of this book, and I was trying to figure it out myself. Every time I tried, there would be another plot twist that made me doubt my theories.
I can't wait to see with what Anna will come up with because I definitely will be reading it!
February 26, 2025
thank you so much to anna for the ARC copy! and apologies for the slightly late review… again…
ANYWAY. i last read bad for business and in my review i think i focused on the plot & characters, and while both are equally as incredible in venom (cleo marry me), there’s something else i’ve taken from this book that i want to highlight.
anna’s writing is truly something else. to me it’s very obvious early on when i don’t get along with an author’s style of writing, but i don’t even bat an eyelid thinking about it when i read anna’s books. it’s smooth and it’s witty and it’s engaging. what’s the best word to describe it?
effortless.
i enjoyed this so much that i seriously need a paperback copy. i know payday hates to see me coming
ANYWAY. i last read bad for business and in my review i think i focused on the plot & characters, and while both are equally as incredible in venom (cleo marry me), there’s something else i’ve taken from this book that i want to highlight.
anna’s writing is truly something else. to me it’s very obvious early on when i don’t get along with an author’s style of writing, but i don’t even bat an eyelid thinking about it when i read anna’s books. it’s smooth and it’s witty and it’s engaging. what’s the best word to describe it?
effortless.
i enjoyed this so much that i seriously need a paperback copy. i know payday hates to see me coming
February 20, 2025
THIS!!!!! THISSSS!!!!
oh my god. i just binged from 34% to finish in 3 hours. i was hooked. i loveeee a good Anna Grace book and this one was perfect & what i needed right now. perfect mix of mystery, friendship, and a bit of that romanceeeeee <333 ;))
genuinely enjoyed every second of reading this novel and i loved the characters SO MUCH!!! i need a Mira!!! (and a Dair but that’s a whole other story!). Cleo has my entire heart i connected with her & her story so muchhh.
this plot had me On! My! Toes! oh wow i did not expect anything. truly. i was GAGGED !!!
also the title…. u genius…..
i’m #seated for what comes next in the Anna Grace universe!! ♥️
thank you so much for the ARC i had the best time reading <3
oh my god. i just binged from 34% to finish in 3 hours. i was hooked. i loveeee a good Anna Grace book and this one was perfect & what i needed right now. perfect mix of mystery, friendship, and a bit of that romanceeeeee <333 ;))
genuinely enjoyed every second of reading this novel and i loved the characters SO MUCH!!! i need a Mira!!! (and a Dair but that’s a whole other story!). Cleo has my entire heart i connected with her & her story so muchhh.
this plot had me On! My! Toes! oh wow i did not expect anything. truly. i was GAGGED !!!
also the title…. u genius…..
i’m #seated for what comes next in the Anna Grace universe!! ♥️
thank you so much for the ARC i had the best time reading <3
February 24, 2025
First, I’d like to send a big thank you to Anna for giving me and trusting me with an ARC of Venom!
Second, OMG this book was so incredible! I adored reading this, and I’m happy to announce that this is my first five star read of the year. The mystery in this was so intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat most of the time, the rest of the time was spent with my mouth hanging open in shock or giggling and kicking my feet over the side plot of romance! I’ve been in a reading slump, this book cured me! I seriously could not put it down. Anna has created a gorgeous story with complex characters and a slow burning, tension filled romance—with wonderful banter might I add. I fell in love with the cunning and clever trio of assassins this story follows as well as the unexpected partner that comes along. The twists and turns in this mystery will leave you yearning for more and more, and Anna delivers. I absolutely loved this story and these characters!
Reasons to read:
- Assassins
- He calls her ‘princess’
- Banter
- Tension
- Mystery
- Lots of lies
- Murder
- Found Family
- Dark, old money aesthetic
- Enemies (?) to lovers
- A splash of fake identities
Quotes:
“A faint whisper in the back of my head reminds me what a safety hazard that is, but I try to ignore it. I’m not here to worry about that. Technically, I’m the safety hazard, but no one knows that.”
“He flashes a perfect smile and laughs under his breath before kissing my knuckles. ‘A bold one, hm?’
‘Almost exclusively.’”
“He’s grinning now. It’s blinding. ‘I’m sorry. I’ll try harder next time. Which method of seduction do you prefer for gaining secrets?’”
“Rain is sliding down the glass pane, and I race the raindrops in my mind. Each one that I choose ends up losing, even though it doesn’t really matter. They all bleed together eventually. Everything is pointless at the end.”
“I thought he was losing his mind, Cleo. Hers. I was thinking about him when I thought I’d die. Mine, reluctantly.”
“‘You need to rest, princess.’
‘But I don’t want to rest. I just rested.’
‘Just say you want to see me without my shirt on.’”
“I love you, I think. I’m sorry.”
“He turns my arm over and brushes his thumb over my hammering pulse before kissing me there, tenderly enough to make my skin burn. ‘Make him regret it all,’ he whispers, looking me in the eyes.”
“‘What if I never forget?’ She cries. ‘What if it stays with me forever, Cleo?’
‘It might,’ I whisper, and I don’t think it’s the right thing to say, but it’s the truth. ‘It might, but that doesn’t mean it won’t lessen over time.’”
“‘I thought—‘
‘I know what you thought.’ His beautiful smile grows wider. ‘Trust me.’
I feign offense, even though it’s the last thing I’m feeling right now. ‘So you mislead me on purpose.’
‘Me? No. Never.’
‘Mhm.’”
Second, OMG this book was so incredible! I adored reading this, and I’m happy to announce that this is my first five star read of the year. The mystery in this was so intriguing. I was on the edge of my seat most of the time, the rest of the time was spent with my mouth hanging open in shock or giggling and kicking my feet over the side plot of romance! I’ve been in a reading slump, this book cured me! I seriously could not put it down. Anna has created a gorgeous story with complex characters and a slow burning, tension filled romance—with wonderful banter might I add. I fell in love with the cunning and clever trio of assassins this story follows as well as the unexpected partner that comes along. The twists and turns in this mystery will leave you yearning for more and more, and Anna delivers. I absolutely loved this story and these characters!
Reasons to read:
- Assassins
- He calls her ‘princess’
- Banter
- Tension
- Mystery
- Lots of lies
- Murder
- Found Family
- Dark, old money aesthetic
- Enemies (?) to lovers
- A splash of fake identities
Quotes:
“A faint whisper in the back of my head reminds me what a safety hazard that is, but I try to ignore it. I’m not here to worry about that. Technically, I’m the safety hazard, but no one knows that.”
“He flashes a perfect smile and laughs under his breath before kissing my knuckles. ‘A bold one, hm?’
‘Almost exclusively.’”
“He’s grinning now. It’s blinding. ‘I’m sorry. I’ll try harder next time. Which method of seduction do you prefer for gaining secrets?’”
“Rain is sliding down the glass pane, and I race the raindrops in my mind. Each one that I choose ends up losing, even though it doesn’t really matter. They all bleed together eventually. Everything is pointless at the end.”
“I thought he was losing his mind, Cleo. Hers. I was thinking about him when I thought I’d die. Mine, reluctantly.”
“‘You need to rest, princess.’
‘But I don’t want to rest. I just rested.’
‘Just say you want to see me without my shirt on.’”
“I love you, I think. I’m sorry.”
“He turns my arm over and brushes his thumb over my hammering pulse before kissing me there, tenderly enough to make my skin burn. ‘Make him regret it all,’ he whispers, looking me in the eyes.”
“‘What if I never forget?’ She cries. ‘What if it stays with me forever, Cleo?’
‘It might,’ I whisper, and I don’t think it’s the right thing to say, but it’s the truth. ‘It might, but that doesn’t mean it won’t lessen over time.’”
“‘I thought—‘
‘I know what you thought.’ His beautiful smile grows wider. ‘Trust me.’
I feign offense, even though it’s the last thing I’m feeling right now. ‘So you mislead me on purpose.’
‘Me? No. Never.’
‘Mhm.’”
February 7, 2025
oh my goodness. where do i even start?
this was AMAZING. I immediately started it and felt drawn in by the characters, invested in their back stories from just the beginning. The plot was fast paced and it was so easy to glide through 100 pages like it was nothing. I loved the character development as well, the way they all grew together as well as finding themselves throughout the book. also, the plot twists JUST KEPT COMING. I live for plot twists and honestly didn't see most of these coming, which I love.🙌 I liked that the romance was there but the mystery was also the main plot because it felt so much more intriguing getting to know the plot as well as the characters rather than focusing on the romance aspect. Overall, I absolutely adore cleo, mira, and elsie and this was just amazing. I will be recommending this every chance I get it was such an easy read and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it early. Thank you Anna Grace for the arc!!
this was AMAZING. I immediately started it and felt drawn in by the characters, invested in their back stories from just the beginning. The plot was fast paced and it was so easy to glide through 100 pages like it was nothing. I loved the character development as well, the way they all grew together as well as finding themselves throughout the book. also, the plot twists JUST KEPT COMING. I live for plot twists and honestly didn't see most of these coming, which I love.🙌 I liked that the romance was there but the mystery was also the main plot because it felt so much more intriguing getting to know the plot as well as the characters rather than focusing on the romance aspect. Overall, I absolutely adore cleo, mira, and elsie and this was just amazing. I will be recommending this every chance I get it was such an easy read and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it early. Thank you Anna Grace for the arc!!
March 23, 2025
okaaaayyyy! first of all, this is the first arc i’ve ever received (thank you anna grace!) but it’s out now so go buy it because it’s awesome!!!! obsessed with so many aspects of this book — the mystery had me intrigued, the found family in this is so sweet, percy’s character was so interesting to me, lovely beautiful best friend mira was such a diva, and darius!! the romance was absolutely romancing! perhaps was swooning while reading some of these scenes on public transport. there are so many good lines in this book omg. ALSO the gracie references hellooooo ‘i love you i’m sorry’ ‘minor’ ‘for real this time’ and ‘us.’ mentioned. okay i went crazy. anna grace i see you girl!!!! overall, this was such a fun read and you all should go check it out if you like mysteries, drama, romance, friendships, and kinda insane people!
June 17, 2025
I would like to begin this ARC review by thanking Anna Grace for sending me this copy, as well as being incredibly understanding about the delay.
Venom caught my eye immediately and I was reluctant to set it down.
The development of the plot & 3 MCs was absolutely captivating to read. Cleo, Mira & Dair are all fierce and strong. Never a dull moment alongside them as they’re all perfectly laced with their fair share of problems and mystery.
The foreshadowing & plot twists had me grasping onto my kindle, eager to unveil the entire whirlwind of a book, Venom, truly is.
This book was written beautifully and is an amazing introduction to the author, Anna Grace.
I don’t want to spoil anything, as it was nothing like i’d ever read before. There was so much originality, i’d most definitely recommend this & i firmly believe Anna Grace needs to write more mystery!!!
Venom caught my eye immediately and I was reluctant to set it down.
The development of the plot & 3 MCs was absolutely captivating to read. Cleo, Mira & Dair are all fierce and strong. Never a dull moment alongside them as they’re all perfectly laced with their fair share of problems and mystery.
The foreshadowing & plot twists had me grasping onto my kindle, eager to unveil the entire whirlwind of a book, Venom, truly is.
This book was written beautifully and is an amazing introduction to the author, Anna Grace.
I don’t want to spoil anything, as it was nothing like i’d ever read before. There was so much originality, i’d most definitely recommend this & i firmly believe Anna Grace needs to write more mystery!!!
February 20, 2025
OH MY GOSH THIS BOOK.
i read most of this book in a day because i simply could not put it down. i was so entertained the mystery aspect of the plot kept on surprising me and the romance aspect had me giggling
there were so many plot twists and i connected to so many of the characters. i seriously can’t even describe how much i love cleo, dair, mira, and elsie i love them all so so so so much!!
this book comes out in 5 days and i need everyone and their mother to read it february 25th, like seriously pls pls pls read it
thank you so much anna for writing this masterpiece and for the arc
i read most of this book in a day because i simply could not put it down. i was so entertained the mystery aspect of the plot kept on surprising me and the romance aspect had me giggling
there were so many plot twists and i connected to so many of the characters. i seriously can’t even describe how much i love cleo, dair, mira, and elsie i love them all so so so so much!!
this book comes out in 5 days and i need everyone and their mother to read it february 25th, like seriously pls pls pls read it
thank you so much anna for writing this masterpiece and for the arc
February 9, 2025
4.5
thank you Anna for letting me beta read, this was AMAZING!
I don't where to start because everything just caught my eye. So let me start off with the plot; it was unexpected and truly just gripping at all times- once I started reading it was hard to put down. I had never read "contemporary" book that has assassins in it and let me tell you we need MORE. (Maybe they do exist and I am just blind haha)
The plot was full of twists and the narrative was just so beautiful- following Cleobella through her journey just made the most sense and I adore her, she deserves so much love and just a million hugs no joke. Each character was unique, they each brought specific elements to the plot THAT JUST MADE SENSE.
Mira was iconic in every sense of the way, I love how outgoing she is- how just amazing of a friend she is towards Cleo and their friendship just makes so much sense. Elsie my sarcastic billionaire at fifteen queen SAVE ME, she is defiantly in my top three characters. Her quick wit and sarcasm is just out of this world hilarious and amazing. I don't know whether I want to be her or with her.
Darius oh Darius the man that you are. At first I was like eh who does he think he is until I really got to know him, truly one of a kind- like his arc as well as Cleo's were the ones that took me by surprise the most.
Anyways, if you like assassins - old money vibes - found family - angst - and much much more read Venom because it won't disappoint. (I cannot wait to get my hands on the physical copy to have it next to Bad for Business)
<3
thank you Anna for letting me beta read, this was AMAZING!
I don't where to start because everything just caught my eye. So let me start off with the plot; it was unexpected and truly just gripping at all times- once I started reading it was hard to put down. I had never read "contemporary" book that has assassins in it and let me tell you we need MORE. (Maybe they do exist and I am just blind haha)
The plot was full of twists and the narrative was just so beautiful- following Cleobella through her journey just made the most sense and I adore her, she deserves so much love and just a million hugs no joke. Each character was unique, they each brought specific elements to the plot THAT JUST MADE SENSE.
Mira was iconic in every sense of the way, I love how outgoing she is- how just amazing of a friend she is towards Cleo and their friendship just makes so much sense. Elsie my sarcastic billionaire at fifteen queen SAVE ME, she is defiantly in my top three characters. Her quick wit and sarcasm is just out of this world hilarious and amazing. I don't know whether I want to be her or with her.
Darius oh Darius the man that you are. At first I was like eh who does he think he is until I really got to know him, truly one of a kind- like his arc as well as Cleo's were the ones that took me by surprise the most.
Anyways, if you like assassins - old money vibes - found family - angst - and much much more read Venom because it won't disappoint. (I cannot wait to get my hands on the physical copy to have it next to Bad for Business)
<3
October 21, 2025
long review ahead so ignore if you don’t care; it’s more for me, anna, and the fake audience watching our show/life anyways ;)
it has been way overdue for me to read this book considering the book is written by my best friend and it was dedicated to me. venom was actually the first piece of work i read of anna’s; i started it when it was a rough draft posted on wattpad and i instantly became obsessed and venom’s number one fan. anna was constantly dragging her feet on updating it on wattpad and it nearly killed me, but because our friendship started growing deeper, i harassed her enough that she created a separate doc where i had access and she would add new parts that she was okay with me reading as she worked on it. i lived and breathed venom and it was my favorite piece of hers even though i hadn’t even read the full thing.
fast forward, venom was put on pause so she could focus on publishing familiar strangers and our friendship also became a slight partnership as she asked me to be her editor (biggest honor of my life btw). i went from being venoms number one fan (still am btw) begging for more crumbs in the doc, to getting to giddily read the original kiss scene at one am while we were delusional (but still begging to be able to read venom in full). throughout bad for business being written and published, i had to stop nagging about venom so she could focus on her current project (much to my dismay as venoms number one fan, but to my excitement as an editor) however every now and then i would drop (not subtle) hints by saying “after this you should pick up venom 😏😏”. fast forward to my birthday (and bad for business release week) and anna surprised me with the best gift i have ever been given. she finished the end of venom, custom designed her own cover, and had a copy printed for me. i cried. to this day, it is still one of my favorite gifts i’ve received and is still one of my favorite books on my shelves.
however, i did not read it. i was in a massive slump and it felt like i’d be doing it a disservice to read it while in said slump. then, my personal life got hectic and things got rough. i ended up dropping the ball completely and was not able to work on venom with anna like we both had wanted. because of that, i did not read it when it was release due to many reasonings (that i’ll save you from elaborating on) but the main one being that i had a mental block when it came to reading venom. but not only did it kill me that i hadn’t read it yet, it also killed anna bc we hadn’t been able to talk about it.
the last time i saw anna, she told me that if cleo were in this situation, mira would do cleo’s makeup, hold her hand, and tell her she understood where she was coming from, but she needs to just get over herself and do it. she also reminded me again that she was dying and needed me to read it asap so we could talk about it- so that’s exactly what i did.
to anna, here is your review you have been dying for. i’m sorry to have kept you waiting this long, but thank you for your patience and understanding.
i ate this UPPPP. every single part of it. but you were right- the end WAS the best part. i don’t think i have ever loved a last paragraph more if i’m being honest, and as much as i wish i had read this immediately, i think i read it exactly when i needed to. the timing just made it hit a little deeper i think.
dair will always remain ungodly sexy (love that man). cleo will ALWAYS remain mother. mira will always remain my icon and fav girl (bc duh). elsie will always remain that bish. cleo and mira will always remain my fav duo. and i will always remain reliant on my gut when i don’t like a character (mhm you know which one- the one i immediately despised).
you absolutely ate this book up and i am beyond proud of you bff!!!!! you KILLED it!!!! i can’t wait to yap about it with you asap!!! but btw you should know i’m kinda mad at you bc i need this to be at least 200 pages longer so i can have more of them bc it’s simply not enough I NEEEEEED THEMMMMMMMM LIKE I NEED AIR. also, you were right. dair did get hotter. (thank you for your service)
anyways. thank you for writing this book. for writing and including that one specific scene for me. for being so understanding and patient with me. for dedicating this book to me. for being the best bff ever. and for being the mira to my cleo. i love you.
venom will always have a special place in my heart and i will forever be it’s number one fan. thank you and goodnight 😌
oh! ps: i read it on kindle and turned highlights/notes on so you can see my real time reactions 😛
it has been way overdue for me to read this book considering the book is written by my best friend and it was dedicated to me. venom was actually the first piece of work i read of anna’s; i started it when it was a rough draft posted on wattpad and i instantly became obsessed and venom’s number one fan. anna was constantly dragging her feet on updating it on wattpad and it nearly killed me, but because our friendship started growing deeper, i harassed her enough that she created a separate doc where i had access and she would add new parts that she was okay with me reading as she worked on it. i lived and breathed venom and it was my favorite piece of hers even though i hadn’t even read the full thing.
fast forward, venom was put on pause so she could focus on publishing familiar strangers and our friendship also became a slight partnership as she asked me to be her editor (biggest honor of my life btw). i went from being venoms number one fan (still am btw) begging for more crumbs in the doc, to getting to giddily read the original kiss scene at one am while we were delusional (but still begging to be able to read venom in full). throughout bad for business being written and published, i had to stop nagging about venom so she could focus on her current project (much to my dismay as venoms number one fan, but to my excitement as an editor) however every now and then i would drop (not subtle) hints by saying “after this you should pick up venom 😏😏”. fast forward to my birthday (and bad for business release week) and anna surprised me with the best gift i have ever been given. she finished the end of venom, custom designed her own cover, and had a copy printed for me. i cried. to this day, it is still one of my favorite gifts i’ve received and is still one of my favorite books on my shelves.
however, i did not read it. i was in a massive slump and it felt like i’d be doing it a disservice to read it while in said slump. then, my personal life got hectic and things got rough. i ended up dropping the ball completely and was not able to work on venom with anna like we both had wanted. because of that, i did not read it when it was release due to many reasonings (that i’ll save you from elaborating on) but the main one being that i had a mental block when it came to reading venom. but not only did it kill me that i hadn’t read it yet, it also killed anna bc we hadn’t been able to talk about it.
the last time i saw anna, she told me that if cleo were in this situation, mira would do cleo’s makeup, hold her hand, and tell her she understood where she was coming from, but she needs to just get over herself and do it. she also reminded me again that she was dying and needed me to read it asap so we could talk about it- so that’s exactly what i did.
to anna, here is your review you have been dying for. i’m sorry to have kept you waiting this long, but thank you for your patience and understanding.
i ate this UPPPP. every single part of it. but you were right- the end WAS the best part. i don’t think i have ever loved a last paragraph more if i’m being honest, and as much as i wish i had read this immediately, i think i read it exactly when i needed to. the timing just made it hit a little deeper i think.
dair will always remain ungodly sexy (love that man). cleo will ALWAYS remain mother. mira will always remain my icon and fav girl (bc duh). elsie will always remain that bish. cleo and mira will always remain my fav duo. and i will always remain reliant on my gut when i don’t like a character (mhm you know which one- the one i immediately despised).
you absolutely ate this book up and i am beyond proud of you bff!!!!! you KILLED it!!!! i can’t wait to yap about it with you asap!!! but btw you should know i’m kinda mad at you bc i need this to be at least 200 pages longer so i can have more of them bc it’s simply not enough I NEEEEEED THEMMMMMMMM LIKE I NEED AIR. also, you were right. dair did get hotter. (thank you for your service)
anyways. thank you for writing this book. for writing and including that one specific scene for me. for being so understanding and patient with me. for dedicating this book to me. for being the best bff ever. and for being the mira to my cleo. i love you.
venom will always have a special place in my heart and i will forever be it’s number one fan. thank you and goodnight 😌
oh! ps: i read it on kindle and turned highlights/notes on so you can see my real time reactions 😛
February 11, 2025
I seriously LOVED THIS BOOK OH EM GEE. Anna the women you are and the characters you create. Let’s start this off by saying she developed the story so well and made sure it wasn’t rushed. The twist were crazyyyy!! CELOOO is such a girl boss through and through. Her storyline is so sad and beautifully brought back up. Maria needs her own story like… yesterday! OH and DARRR get out because Mrs Anna wrote him out as I ATE HIM UP. He is every women’s dream. If you are looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time this is the one. I cant wait for the release becuase I know people are gonna eat this up. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the tension throughout the book it was SO well done. This story follows Cleobella also known as Cleo, she is an assassin for Sallow. He is a cruel, dirty, and ruthless man who needs Cleo to get all his dirty jobs done. Her best friend Mira and her annoying and enemy Darius both help get the jobs done. She has been in this business her whole life what’s one more job? Well this next job is to kill of her bosses brother. Can she complete it? Well, something distracts her and causes her to mess up her job. Will her boss be mad? Will he kill her? She’s never messed up so she doesn’t know. That’s not even the best parts of the book and you already want to read it huh? Well go read it 2-25-25!! I got the ARC of this and ATE IT UP but didnt want to finish it!!! I just loved it to much anyways I LOVED IT. XOXO
February 12, 2025
Okay let me start off by saying I have not finished a book in SOOO long. Like literally haven’t read willingly since September probably. But once I got this arc? I read it in 3 DAYS.
It’s genuinely such a good read. It’s fun (mostly some pages had me GAGGED.) I read it really quickly thanks to the kindle app because any spare moment I had that app was open reading this book.
The characters were real (does that sound silly?) they felt like real people that I get to watch exist. The way they interacted and spoke felt genuine and mostly light. Being able to have them stand alone like that and have their own personalities blend so well is so amazing.
The plot twists kept coming and kept surprising if you want something that’s fun with some serious aspects this is thatttt. And the romance sprinkled in there HELLOOO???? I can’t even say what I wanna say because it’s a spoiler so please please (I’m begging) read this so I can tell you BECAUSE ITS IN MY MINDDDS CONSTANTLY.
Honestly all that said 5/5 10/10 whatever you want chefs kiss so good please read when it’s released!!
It’s genuinely such a good read. It’s fun (mostly some pages had me GAGGED.) I read it really quickly thanks to the kindle app because any spare moment I had that app was open reading this book.
The characters were real (does that sound silly?) they felt like real people that I get to watch exist. The way they interacted and spoke felt genuine and mostly light. Being able to have them stand alone like that and have their own personalities blend so well is so amazing.
The plot twists kept coming and kept surprising if you want something that’s fun with some serious aspects this is thatttt. And the romance sprinkled in there HELLOOO???? I can’t even say what I wanna say because it’s a spoiler so please please (I’m begging) read this so I can tell you BECAUSE ITS IN MY MINDDDS CONSTANTLY.
Honestly all that said 5/5 10/10 whatever you want chefs kiss so good please read when it’s released!!
February 23, 2025
oh my god. i’m speechless. thank you so much, anna, for letting me read this book early <3
i don’t quite have the words for how incredible this book was. i don’t think there’s words to explain how much i loved it. i’m gonna be thinking about it forever.
these characters, this found family, oh my. they are quite literally everything to me. the things these characters, especially cleo, do to my heart is insane. they’re so strong and they’ve come so far and to read that was so beautiful. this little family is tethered to my soul i fear.
somehow every. single. plot twisted had me gagged?! like what do you MEAN. every time i thought we were gonna get a break, something else was thrown in. i couldn’t put this book down, it was addicting.
the point is, i need this book injected into my veins or better yet, my memories wiped so i can read this book for the first time.
i don’t quite have the words for how incredible this book was. i don’t think there’s words to explain how much i loved it. i’m gonna be thinking about it forever.
these characters, this found family, oh my. they are quite literally everything to me. the things these characters, especially cleo, do to my heart is insane. they’re so strong and they’ve come so far and to read that was so beautiful. this little family is tethered to my soul i fear.
somehow every. single. plot twisted had me gagged?! like what do you MEAN. every time i thought we were gonna get a break, something else was thrown in. i couldn’t put this book down, it was addicting.
the point is, i need this book injected into my veins or better yet, my memories wiped so i can read this book for the first time.
January 5, 2025
just beta read this masterpiece!!! rtc :)
March 3, 2025
wanted scream/cry/throw up after every twist.
BAWLED bc of cleo & dair.
giggled bc mira duh!
couldn’t imagine giving this book less than five stars it was just so so good 🤭
BAWLED bc of cleo & dair.
giggled bc mira duh!
couldn’t imagine giving this book less than five stars it was just so so good 🤭
March 16, 2025
Let me just say this read was an absolute masterpiece 🖤Cleo is my favorite, her overall characteristics being strong, not letting nothing in her past, present nor future defining her. Cleo is an inspirational character read, due to her being an absolute girlboss due to the events she endured and fought through and I wish we were friends in real life, we would be such good friends, and I feel like she could give me the best of advice 🫂. This read gives so much relatability throughout it is honestly so much of a great piece 🥺. When she finally let it all out and accepted through everything, as well as finding happiness and finding a love interest I was so happy.😆 Now, on to Darius, that is what a man. Darius, is such well written, like observant, caring, and kind-hearted to Cleo❣️what more can a woman ask for!! He knows what a person needs to relax and what is needed to help in a situation. Also their banter, emotions and chemistry between each other from start to finish is what had me in hold, like omg ‘hello’😍! Also, the suspense, had me, if you know I love the plot twists and if you love plot twists this read is for you as well. The love story, the plot and the pace of the story is overall what made this an amazing read! Thank you Anna, so excited for any and all your upcoming work, thank you! Totally recommend ♥️
March 7, 2025
⋆｡°✩ARC REVIEW⋆｡°✩
I am totally speechless this book was incredible!!
I loved the found family representation in this book, Cleo is my absolute favorite character
every single plot twisted had me on the floor like what do you meannn I’m just a girl like I couldn’t get a break
The vibes and the mystery was giving, they all deserve so much better
I love Cleo and dair so much, their chemistry and tension was so good, I cried and giggled throughout the whole book
tropes ⋆｡°✩
-assasins
-fake identities
-betrayal
-hate to love
-found family
-wound tending
💌Thank You Anna so much for this arc💌
I am totally speechless this book was incredible!!
I loved the found family representation in this book, Cleo is my absolute favorite character
every single plot twisted had me on the floor like what do you meannn I’m just a girl like I couldn’t get a break
The vibes and the mystery was giving, they all deserve so much better
I love Cleo and dair so much, their chemistry and tension was so good, I cried and giggled throughout the whole book
tropes ⋆｡°✩
-assasins
-fake identities
-betrayal
-hate to love
-found family
-wound tending
💌Thank You Anna so much for this arc💌
Read
July 23, 2025౨ৎ book review | venom
[ 5 ★ ]
𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩? 𝙞 𝙖𝙨𝙠, 𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮. “𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙢𝙮 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩?”
“𝙞𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙨, 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥. “𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤����𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩’𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
— my review 💌
*no spoilers*
and anna has done it yet again. my first five star of the year ‼️all of anna’s books are truly incredible, but there is just SOMETHING about venom that is extra special to me. i can’t even explain it.
dair and cleo, together and as individual characters, honestly took my heart. cleo is so strong. she doesn’t let her past define her, and she girlbossed her way through life even while she was forced to endure some horrible circumstances that make me want to give her the biggest hug known to mankind. i found myself relating to her at so many points, and i just felt so proud and happy when she finally got free of the clutches she was held in, when she couls finally, properly find her happiness. now… dair. darius is a MAN. like, he was so observant, and so gentle with cleo. the way he always knew what she needed, knew how to calm her down or bring her back to the present was everythingggggg to me. when i tell you they made me SOB on many more than one occasion, i mean it. their relationship is just pure and honest and grown from such love, i can only hope to find something like theirs someday. they’re so very dear to me <3 (plus the side characters own my entire soul !!)
onto the suspense/mystery aspects. the amount of times i outwardly GASPED at this book is wild. anna had so many tricks up her sleeve while writing, and every single one got me. she really knows how to write adrenaline pumping scenes that have you on the edge of your seat. i was STRESSED. which is actually mind-boggling to me since i usually see things coming from a mile away, or guess all the plottwists. not this time though! i feel venom had the perfect balance of suspense, mystery, romance and friendships that shaped it into an incredible, bingeable read. ugh i just love anna and her books so so much, i’ll forever be the first person screaming about them.
spice? no.
some tropes :
★ assasins
★ fake identities
★ betrayal
★ hate to love
★ found family
★ wound tending
[ 5 ★ ]
𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩? 𝙞 𝙖𝙨𝙠, 𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙪𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮. “𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙢𝙮 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩?”
“𝙞𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙢𝙪𝙧𝙨, 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥. “𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤����𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩’𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
— my review 💌
*no spoilers*
and anna has done it yet again. my first five star of the year ‼️all of anna’s books are truly incredible, but there is just SOMETHING about venom that is extra special to me. i can’t even explain it.
dair and cleo, together and as individual characters, honestly took my heart. cleo is so strong. she doesn’t let her past define her, and she girlbossed her way through life even while she was forced to endure some horrible circumstances that make me want to give her the biggest hug known to mankind. i found myself relating to her at so many points, and i just felt so proud and happy when she finally got free of the clutches she was held in, when she couls finally, properly find her happiness. now… dair. darius is a MAN. like, he was so observant, and so gentle with cleo. the way he always knew what she needed, knew how to calm her down or bring her back to the present was everythingggggg to me. when i tell you they made me SOB on many more than one occasion, i mean it. their relationship is just pure and honest and grown from such love, i can only hope to find something like theirs someday. they’re so very dear to me <3 (plus the side characters own my entire soul !!)
onto the suspense/mystery aspects. the amount of times i outwardly GASPED at this book is wild. anna had so many tricks up her sleeve while writing, and every single one got me. she really knows how to write adrenaline pumping scenes that have you on the edge of your seat. i was STRESSED. which is actually mind-boggling to me since i usually see things coming from a mile away, or guess all the plottwists. not this time though! i feel venom had the perfect balance of suspense, mystery, romance and friendships that shaped it into an incredible, bingeable read. ugh i just love anna and her books so so much, i’ll forever be the first person screaming about them.
spice? no.
some tropes :
★ assasins
★ fake identities
★ betrayal
★ hate to love
★ found family
★ wound tending
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews