The Other Side

by C. Hebert

Do we have a deal?

We are warned as children not to play with fire for fear of being burned. But what if that very fire belonged to the goddess of the underworld? And what if she, the keeper of souls, offered you everything you desire? All in exchange for a single favor. Would you accept her terms?

Iris-Marie, the voodoo witch of the bayou, is no stranger to the mistreatment of others, so when Cypress, the goddess of the underworld, saves her from death and offers to give her the very thing she desires, it's no wonder she accepts. Even if it means gambling her soul. But when Cypress comes to collect her favor, Iris-Marie's world is thrown into chaos when she learns the truth of the very deal she struck.
Now, she must choose to save herself or burn in Cypress' fiery passion that could drag her to the Abyss for all eternity.

Please check triggers prior to reading as this is a dark romance.

Genres: Dark, Lesbian, Dark Romance, Fantasy, Mythology, Romance, Retellings

181 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 21, 2025

About the author

Commonly known as Cyn, C. Hebert is a multi-genre author who loves to paint a pretty, yet horrific, picture woven together with absolute chaos. True gravevard reads.
While most authors like to write happily ever afters, C. Hebert prefers to take her stories in the opposite direction, delivering darker tales with a hint of madness, tugging at your heartstrings.
She is a self proclaimed manic write who loves to constantly push herself to do more.

C. Hebert is a published poet and writes darker, more unique works under a secondary pen name, which is an International Best Seller. It is listed on her social media.

Reviews

[Ryn Meagher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review 🧪 The Other Side - C Herbert

I came for the sapphic chaos and left with my soul shattered and my jaw on the floor. Let’s get straight to it—Cypress??? You sneaky, manipulative, deliciously evil goddess??? I KNEW IT. I FELT IT IN MY BONES. That whole “I’ve met many mortals, but never one like you” schtick?? GIRL, PLEASE. Tuft was calling you out from the start, and I love a book that rewards my deep-seated trust issues. CHEFS. KISS.

Now, let’s talk about Tuft, my emotional support Pegasus. My sweet, tragic, ride-or-die bestie just out here trying to survive while mortals and goddesses are making terrible life choices. Protect Tuft at all costs. He deserves the world and a full-length novel of his own.

And THEN. THE SMUT. LORD HAVE MERCY. I was not prepared for that level of sapphic divinity. Cypress could have handed me a contract written in blood mid-scene, and I would have signed it no questions asked. The tension? The power plays? The way Iris Marie went from “this goddess tortured me” to “actually, she’s misunderstood and I’m in love with her” at LIGHTNING SPEED?? Ma’am, I get it. That’s some deity-grade seduction right there.

If I have one gripe, it’s that I needed more bayou. I wanted the murky, eerie, witchy atmosphere to wrap me up and never let me go, but I get it—novella format means we’re moving FAST. And trust me, this book moves. The plot? Zig-zagging like it’s avoiding a lightning bolt from the heavens. You think you know where it’s going? WRONG. It takes a sharp left, does a backflip, and leaves you questioning your entire existence.

Final thoughts? Dark, magical, devastating, and hotter than the underworld itself. If you need a sapphic fantasy with scheming goddesses, desperate witches, and an ending that will make you SCREAM, this one’s for you. But BE WARNED: Cypress does NOT play fair. And I love her for it.

[Darkest Bellé · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Arc Review


They way C. Hebert can grab your attention is undeniable talent, her novella The Other Side is not shy with the imagery and world building for such a short story.

The concept of taking multiverse worlds and having diverse characters own storylines weaved together to give you an insta-lust Sapphic twisted romance is such a thrilling and fascinating reading experience.

Iris-Marie is the perfect morally grey type character mixed with being a VooDoo swap living Witch who comes in contact with Cypress a Goddess of the Underworld to strike a deal. These two dynamic is magnetic instantly, their banter was unmatched throughout the storyline, they take you on a wild, dark ride that’s for sure, with an ending that you wouldn’t suspect, and I still feel like I am experiencing a fever dream.

If you are looking for a quick, deliciously dark and twisted story look no further, give The Other Side a read.


Tropes:
Sapphic Romance/Retelling
Magic
Shadow Play
“Cat & Mouse”
Betrayal/Revenge
Forced Proximity

[Marley · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Regardless of the outcome of this game, I knew one thing for sure: I didn’t just want her soul, I wanted her.”

I came for the sapphicness and stayed for the witch, the goddess of death, the deal, the revenge and the side characters.

It's a novella, but it packs a punch. I liked the storyline, the characters, the spice and the side characters too 🐊 Bastian and Tuft are so fun. This story kept me on my toes. I laughed at myself when the book ended. I thought it would go a different way, buy I really liked this ending.

[Emily (emilysdarkcorner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Side by @authorc.hebert

Please check your check your trigger warnings and content warnings before diving in

This book had me locked in and hooked in from the beginning. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down because I was so in love. Cypress is our soul eater and Iris Marie is the bayou witch and I loved them so much. Plus add in Bastain and Tuft who I also loved and I love the role they played with the other characters. The push and pull between Cypress and Iris Marie was something from another world, from the moment they made that deal I knew it wasn't going to be easy from there.

When I got to the end and the twist that happened it had my jaw on the ground because I wasn't expecting that at all.

[Charlotte Ashby · Rating 5 out of 5]

When this hit my kindle I dropped everything and immediately read the whole thing. Why?
Because not only am I obsessed with Heberts writing I am also a sucker for all things princess and the frog/ hades and combining the two? My perfect idea of a book.

The characters were more complex then I originally thought they’d be for such a short story (60k words) cypress… damn that woman is something else I felt sorry for her at points and then that ending just took it all back my jaw was on the floor at that ending.
Iris really grew into herself but like we all do she fell for the curse of love and that was ultimately her downfall but I loved her friendship with tuft ( who was a whole other teary moment)
I am still in shock over the ending and will need 7 working business days to get over it but it’s an amazing book

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC! Final rating: 3.5 Stars

"Are magic and power not the same thing"

"Are fireflies and stars the same?"

Is both my favorite exchange in this novella, and also I think a good example of C. Herbert's writing. It's both witchy and sometimes lush, and it's never quite what it seems.

So I'll start off saying my favorite thing, which is a major spoiler I loved that Cypress was just using Iris Marie all along because I didn't buy the sudden "I've met so many mortals, but never one like you" before, especially when Tuft kept saying that this was her pattern to begin with. My second favorite part of the book was of course Tuft, our lovely, pained Pegasus who is just trying his best. And my third favorite part was that yes the smut here was delicious, thank you for the meal :DDDD

This was a novella, so the pacing here was a bit too fast for me, especially with Iris Marie's growing love for Cypress--it went from, oh she's an evil goddess who tortured me to actually, she's misunderstood and I'm in love with her a little too fast--but of course, you can blame that both on the power that Cypress is giving her, the dreams, and the sex that Cypress is so good at.

The world was pretty interesting, with the bayou, the heavens, and the underworld all laid out pretty descriptively. Personally, I wanted the bayou to be explored more, but I understand the limitations of a novella.

If you are looking for a dark (and I do mean DARK) FF fast-paced romance with a goddess and a witch, definitely check this one out!

[Stephanie Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this read! That ending was so unexpected, but seriously what better way to end the story?? I finished it at midnight and I couldn’t even vocalize my feelings bc my husband and daughter were asleep.

Iris-Marie was so perfectly morally grey. Cypress kept you guessing. Tuft, oh my sweet Tuft. Anyone else picture Evan Peters from AHS S7???

I loved the detail given to the imagery of the locations of the bayou and underworld. I also thought the lore was explained well. It was fast paced since it is a shorter read, but I think it worked very well. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a sapphic villains retelling.

[Queerbookdad · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 rounded up


Honestly I’m really mad about this book. It was so good and it really pulls you in only to shatter your heart over and over again

The characters are all kind of ones you love to hate and hate to love minus Bastien and Tuft, personally those two are just super loveable

I don’t know why I was thinking I’d get a HEA with this book, I should’ve known better, the one characters ending made me sad and angry and the other characters ending made me happy but also sad in a way

All in all it’s a really good dark read and you’d be silly not to read it

[Lanae (findmeonsmutlane) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really intrigued by the concept and reimagining of this story, but it was a bit slow paced and I had a really hard time getting into it. I'm not sure if it was the pacing or the plot, but I picked it up and put it down multiple times and just kinda had to keep chugging along.

I agree that the last about 25-30% is for sure the most exciting. But other than that, it was an ok read!

[Onyx Reads Smut · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the kind of book that hooks you in from page one. The twists keep you wanting, and the ending made you wish it never ended. I am obsessed with the banter between Cypress and Iris-Marie.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a thrilling retelling. I absolutely loved the story and felt devastated at the end of the book for the FMC. I absolutely loved the other side and couldn’t help but sign the song while reading lol. Can’t wait for more from the author.

[Jacqueline Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was hot, but I felt that book was a little too long. Some chapters dragged to me and others were done in flash.

[kt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun read for me. The Princess and the Frog is one of my favorite Disney movies, so I was pumped for a Dr. Facilier retelling. The spice was SPICIN. Some of my favorite. And I liked the ending, and didn’t expect it. It was kind of a twilight zone ending. Everyone got what they asked for, but did they REALLY?

[Kodi B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, this Sapphic Dark Fantasy hits the mark on its Dr. Facilier Retelling, pulls in Pegasus and the gods, and it's all wrapped up in a spicy sweet deal. Filled with magic, betrayal, and twists that will keep you guessing till the very end! And my my, what an ending it was, I did not see that coming!
You follow Iris-Marie, who's a Voodoo Bayou Witch who's looked down upon and cast out. Doing the people's bidding in secret and shunned away. Until she's attacked by some characters you might recognize. She's saved by the unlikeliest creature, an Alligator who works for none other than the Goddess of Death. Cypress who rules the Underworld and eats souls of those who make a deal with the devil and can't follow through with their side of the bargain. Iris makes a deal to have power, stronger magic, anything she desires, and protection for 13 years. She lives the high life with her own shop, respect, and doesn't want for anything. Until Cypress calls upon her for her side of the deal. Tuft Cypress' lackey, Pegasus, is sent to make sure things go smoothly. That's when things get tricky, spicy, and all turned upside down as she's tasked with a job to do that's she knows she's can't follow through with. To kill The God of the Heavens. As tragedy strikes, two sides rival, poisonous potions are floating around, betrayal is everywhere, and things end with a shock and questions!

... What to Expect ...
Dark Fantasy, Sapphic Romance, let's make a deal, Dr. Facilier Retelling, voodoo witch, goddess of the Underworld, God of the Heavens, shadow mommy, magic, alligators, potions, betrayal, torture, trauma, revenge, spice, violence, death, stealing of souls, and plot twists!!

[Emily Mae Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This lil’ novella was a wild ride from start to finish! From the very first page, I was hooked, unable to put it down until the very end! Overall, this was a novella so it was a very fast paced, insta-lust kind of read. While I loved the underlying gothic, swamp witch themes, what kept me engaged were all the diverse characters!
Iris-Marie, a bayou witch, has been beyond mistreated by those around her, always feeling like she’s been taken advantage of. So, when she is given a deal by the goddess of the underworld, Cypress, to be given everything she could possible desire in exchange for a favor, she accepts. It sounds too good to be true! Then, 13 years pass by without a word when that favor is called upon. Even still, in that 13 years, Cypress can’t stop thinking about the kiss that sealed their deal. She can’t stop thinking about the voodoo witch in the swamp with the fire in her veins. One that challenges her without fear. The dynamics between these two were an experience, for sure but what I really loved was Iris-Marie’s growth. She never let her flame go out, even when it felt like everything was stacked against her and she was given a task that no one could accomplish. There was just something so magnetic about these two, how their individual stories weaved together to form such a hot/cold relationship, I couldn’t stop reading! Definitely a great read for anyone in need of something quick, dark & twisted!
Tropes:
Sapphic Romance/ villain retelling
Magic
Insta-lust
Forced Proximity
“Cat & mouse”
Shadow Play
Betrayal/Revenge

[Eve Eyre (homeandhardbacks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.25

📚: Standalone
📖: 181 Pages (Kindle)

Genre: Fanatsy/ Dark Romance
Tropes: Retelling, Sapphic, Forced Proximity, Magic, Witches, Gods, POC FMC, Multiple POV.

‘I didn’t just want her soul, I wanted her.’

‘If you crave me so deeply, soul eater, then take me. Consume me.’

Iris-Marie dabbles at being a witch, however her power isn’t strong enough to keep her safe in this world. After a dangerous run in with two men in which Iris-Marie is saved by the Goddess of the Underworld, she is presented with a deal. She is to owe a favor to the Goddess in exchange for some of her power. Seems simple enough…

Having read a selection of C. Hebert’s work under a different pen name I knew from the off I was going to love the writing style and pacing of this book. I’ve said it before & I’ll say it again I don’t know how she fits so much story into so few pages. The Other Side could easily be 300 - 400 pages for me.

I immediately warmed to the characters and felt invested in all of their story arcs. I would like to give a special mention to Bastien (IYKYK) 🐊 I also grew to love Tuft and why do I feel for Cypress??
When I say I annotated this book, I mean it. I must have hightlighted 10% of the bloody book! Cypress just knows what to say, again IYKYK.

This story subverted my expectations multiple times. I constantly felt like a right idiot because I just didn’t see it coming. We also have what for me is a first, in that there is a dream sequence actually done right. Also THE ENDING!! I had this as a 4.5 ⭐️ until the ending 🤯

Thank you C. Hebert for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Dani-Lynn Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Star Rating
Multi First Person POV (Iris-Marie, Cypress, Bastien, & Tuft)
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Age Rating: 16+

🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
I was already driven to the author because of her Living Nightmare series, but when I found out that she would be collabing with two other authors I love, I just had to read this!! And I was not let down. A morally grey voodoo witch and the goddess of the underworld. You already captured my attention with ease!

🖤 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽 🖤
Iris-Marie is a voodoo witch, in a gender-swapped Dr. Facilier kind of way, who comes across Cypress, the goddess of the underworld, who saves her when she has a run-in with some dangerous men. Because of her magic not being strong enough, Cypress makes a deal with her that she can’t refuse. This story is non-stop, attention grabbing and full of spice that will leave your jaw dropped to the floor!

🖤 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 🖤
Iris-Marie is a voodoo witch who hasn’t reached the full potential of her power. Cypress, the goddess of the underworld, is full of banter, sexy, and powerful. Their chemistry is unmatched. I also want to toss out a little shoutout for my faves in the story, Tuft and Bastien. They’re the perfect little side creatures you just need more of!

🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 🖤
🖤 sapphic romance
🖤 shadow play
🖤 cat & mouse
🖤 betrayal/revenge
🖤 forced proximity

🖤 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 🖤
Overall, if you’re in the mood for a little dark fairytale retelling with powerful female lead characters, magic, and spice exactly when you need it the most, this is the book for you! Add it directly to the top of your TBR and don’t forget to check out WICKED DEPTHS and OFF WITH HER HEAD from the same series.

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thank you to Cyn for the opportunity to read and review!

“𝕯𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖞 𝖎𝖉𝖊𝖆 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖆 𝖕𝖆𝖗𝖙 𝖔𝖋 𝖒𝖊 𝖎𝖘 𝖆𝖑𝖜𝖆𝖞𝖘 𝖑𝖚𝖗𝖐𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖜𝖎𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖓, 𝖈𝖗𝖆𝖜𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖚𝖓𝖉𝖊𝖗 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖋𝖑𝖊𝖘𝖍, 𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖆𝖜𝖆𝖞 𝖆𝖙 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖕𝖚𝖗𝖎𝖙𝖞 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖘𝖚𝖒𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖇𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖗 𝖞𝖔𝖚?”

This was such a phenomenal little read. God, I loved every moment of it. The characters. The story. I’m completely obsessed with every detail in this. THE BAYOU VIBES? THE UNDERWORLD? IRIS-MARIE AND CYPRESS? MY BABY TUFT? All absolutely phenomenal. No other words for it.

“𝕰𝖛𝖊𝖓 𝖎𝖋 𝖜𝖊 𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖇𝖊 𝖎𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖜𝖔𝖗𝖑𝖉, 𝖑𝖊𝖙 𝖚𝖘 𝖇𝖊 𝖎𝖓 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒𝖘.”

I want to keep this little review as spoiler free as possible because the ending went a completely different route than I originally thought it would go, and I LOVED it. I was a little shooketh, I tell ya.

“𝕴 𝖐𝖓𝖔𝖜 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖑 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝕴’𝖛𝖊 𝖙𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖉 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖉𝖊𝖘𝖎𝖗𝖊𝖘. 𝕬𝖓𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖞 𝖆𝖗𝖊 𝖋𝖎𝖑𝖑𝖊𝖉 𝖜𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖑𝖔𝖓𝖌𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖙𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖙𝖔𝖚𝖈𝖍𝖊𝖉. 𝕿𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖉𝖊𝖘𝖎𝖗𝖊𝖉. 𝕿𝖔 𝖇𝖊 𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊𝖉.”

We follow our bayou witch, Iris-Marie. She’s somewhat the outcast of the town, and during a moment of life or death for Iris, she is face-to-face with the fellow legend. The Keeper of Souls, the Soul Eater herself, Cypress. In exchange of saving her life, Cypress offers Iris a deal: real power in exchange for her soul. And when the time comes, Iris must fulfill a favor for Cypress. She knows nothing of the favor or the catch and won’t know until the day comes. Years later, Iris is at peak with the power she received and is displaying her tricks to all. And then, Cypress appears, favor ready to be fulfilled.

“𝖄𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖑 𝖎𝖘 𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖛𝖊𝖑𝖔𝖚𝖘. 𝕸𝖚𝖈𝖍 𝖑𝖎𝖐𝖊 𝖒𝖞 𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒𝖘, 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖙𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖊 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖑 𝖍𝖆𝖚𝖓𝖙 𝖒𝖊, 𝖒𝖞 𝖕𝖊𝖙. 𝕬𝖓𝖉 𝖜𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖊𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖞 𝖇𝖎𝖙𝖊 𝖔𝖋 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖊𝖝𝖎𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖓𝖈𝖊, 𝕴 𝖘𝖆𝖛𝖔𝖗 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖉𝖊𝖘𝖎𝖗𝖊.”

We are taken on an absolute ride filled with magic, power, death, lust, love, betrayal, the war of gods, and so much more. This novella packed all the punch possible, and I was not disappointed whatsoever. There was so much detail in the story, so much tension, pain, and emotions. And can I, once again, bring up my baby Tuft?

“𝕴𝖋 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖈𝖗𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖒𝖊 𝖘𝖔 𝖉𝖊𝖊𝖕𝖑𝖞, 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖑 𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖗, 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖓 𝖙𝖆𝖐𝖊 𝖒𝖊. 𝕮𝖔𝖓𝖘𝖚𝖒𝖊 𝖒𝖊.”

Easily 5 ⭐️ and a healthy dose of 3 🌶️.

[Darkling Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Other Side – C. Hebert

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

This book was such a vibe, from the first few pages to the very last page. It drips in imagery and fantasy action. The Other Side is a sapphic fantasy retelling, and boy... it really doesn’t disappoint.

Do you want powerful gods? It’s got it... you want an FMC that becomes powerful, an FMC that channels all her rage into protecting her obsession? It’s got it... A cute alligator? That’s here, too... and I was totally down for it.
Cypress is the God of death, a soul eater... queen of the underworld, Little did she know when Little Iris-marie finds herself in the underworld that she had met her match. The push and pull between Cypress and Iris-Marie really made this book what it is. Iris-Marie drips in fiery passion and attitude and is an overall badass.

We also see some other great characters such as Bastian, the alligator, and of course... Tuft. They both are loyal and admirable, and I could see that maybe there are more stories to be told here?? Wishful thinking?? Most likely.

I loved the world building, the imagery of the other side, it really created a world that will stick with me... from the damp caves to the fires of the underworld... it was perfection 👌

The Other Side comes out, TOMORROW! Go treat yourself. It is Friday after all... 🫡🫡

[Kailee Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am the only god here, and my name is the only one I will allow to leave your lips, my pet."

This book chewed up my heart and spat it back out because wow this novella was everything. This sapphic romance pulled at my heartstrings and I loved every second of it. The Other Side follows Iris Marie, a witch from the bayou with weak magic, who makes a deal with devil to gain all of the power she could have ever dreamed of - for a price. One fateful night, Cypress, the god of the underworld banished there from the heavens, saves Iris Marie from unruly men, and she strikes a deal with the pretty little witch from the bayou. Power beyond her wildest dreams for one little favour. Simple, right?

For a novella, there is so much great character development, relationship dynamics, and plot. It works so well. And the smut? I am here for every second of sapphic goodness in this book. It was absolutely divine. This book is devastatingly wicked and dark and yet full of hope, as all you want is for Iris Marie's life and relationship to work, and for Tuft, our beautiful Pegasus friend, to find freedom. The ending of this book near crippled me, and I was jaw dropped, pick me up off the floor in disbelief. But again, I loved it.

Thank you so much to the author for the eARC of this book. It is absolutely phenomenal and I adore everything you write.

[Katlyn Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to begin with this review. The Other Side was such a good book. Cypress was the perfect villain. Iris-Marie was the perfect bayou witch. Tuft and Bastien were the best side characters. Tuft’s past was the perfect addition without taking over the story. The writing in this book makes you feel for the villain without really making her the good guy. It was a good example of there being two sides to every story, and Cypress’ version was the “other side.” This book starts off with Iris-Marie making a deal with Cypress for power. She uses her powers to make a living, becoming what people refer to as the conjuror of souls. She uses Cypress’ powers as her own to make a name for herself and never be a target again. And then Cypress shows up, ready for Iris-Marie to fulfill her side of the deal. This is where we learn about the rest of the story (and history) and watch decisions unfold. There were moments where I really liked certain characters and then didn’t like them. I feel like this book was a really good show of how we can be manipulated by story telling. The heroes aren’t always all good and the villains aren’t always all bad. Or at least they don’t start off that way. The ending of this book wasn’t what I was expecting, but it’s the type of ending that will keep you thinking about it. I love Cyn’s writing and look forward to what’s next from her.

[Lottie1996 · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

WOWWWW! That was nothing like I imagined. Nothing better than going into a read blind— and coming out of it in pure shock… (the good kind of shock😏)

Let’s start with my fave characters —

🩵Tuft
Oh my heart— I love him! What an absolutely sweetie, he’s literally the bestie every girl needs. And that ending, my heart was so happy for him😍

🐊Bastien
All I could see was the alligator from The Princess and the frog 😂 I knew deep down he wasn’t just a normal alligator.. still in shock at that ending though😂🐊🐊 (besties)

❤️‍🔥Cypress - “I would give you my soul if I possessed it.”
You evil, manipulative, extremely sexy Goddess😩 I can’t even be mad with her… I actually ended the book with a ‘Well played Goddess of Death… well played’

‘Let me show you what it truly means to be touched by a God.’

And the SPICE🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Holy Hell Fire🔥 it was perfection…
Even I was here all like- Iris Marie I totally get it! Give her everything she wants. I’m straight, but even I’d give my soul to that woman after those scenes😮‍💨

“I am the only God here, and my name is the only one I will allow to leave your lips, my pet.”

Honestly it’s short / and not so sweet😈 my the plot is fast and it has so many twists and turns— it kept me guessing the whole way through, and had my jaw on the floor at the ending 😂💀 thoroughly enjoyed this read!!

[Ashley Van Durmen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know whenever I read a book by Cyn that she leaves you guessing what’s going to happen until the very end and The Other Side does exactly that! This novella story is a part of the standalone Sapphic Villainous Retellings that include Wicked Depths by Melissa McSherry and Off With Her Head by Dana Leeann

If you are a fan of Dark Fantasy Romance that just happens to be a Sapphic Hades/Dr. Facilier retelling mashup with Cat & Mouse, Forced Proximity, Shadow Magic, Betrayal/Revenge and so much more, this one is for you!

In this story we meet Iris-Marie, a voodoo witch, that one fateful night strikes a bargain with the goddess of the underworld, Cypress for power. All she must do is fulfill one favor when Cypress comes calling.

But when she comes calling Iris-Marie realizes it is a bit more than she bargained for and must figure out a way to fulfill her bargain. With the help of Tuft and Bastian, who are also indebted to Cypress, they work up a plan to complete the task but at what cost?

I loved all the retelling nods in this book. Iris-Marie and Cypress play a cat & mouse game throughout the story and though they may try to deny it, their attraction to each other is undeniable but who will get caught?

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Cyd Underwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do we have a deal?” Oh honey, I didn’t just make a deal—I sold my soul and would do it again with zero regrets. Let me fan myself real quick.

This book? It’s bayou magic meets underworld heat in the sexiest, most intoxicating way. Iris-Marie is the kind of witch you root for—wounded, wild, and wielding power she barely understands. Enter Cypress: goddess of the underworld, hotter than hellfire, and more dangerous than your ex with a grudge. She doesn’t just play with fire—she is the fire. And trust me, when she sets her sights on Iris-Marie, the page practically sizzles.

Their chemistry? Forbidden. Fiery. Unrelenting. It’s giving slow burn meets instant combustion. One minute, you’re knee-deep in voodoo vibes and morally gray decisions, and the next, you’re spiraling into a darkly divine sapphic tension that will drag you straight into the abyss—and you’ll say thank you.

C. Hebert didn’t just write a book—she conjured a spell, bound it in temptation, and laced it with danger. The Other Side is what happens when you mix dark romance with witchy revenge, power plays, and one hell of a goddess who absolutely does not play fair.

5 blazing stars. I’d sign that deal in blood all over again.

[Sebastian (bookish_millennial) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice 🌶️🌶️

This was my first sapphic book, and while I think the genre isn’t quite for me, I really did love the villain gender swap! This is a Hades and Dr. Facilier coded sapphic romance which I thought was super cool!

I wish there were more bayou witchy vibes, and I think there was as pretty fast flip-flop on the romance, but this is a fast-paced novella so I understand the pacing. By far my favorite characters were Tuft and Bastien, I thought they were great side characters and we must protect sweet Tuft at all costs!

I did really love both Iris-Marie and Cypress separately as characters — they’re both strong, bad ass women and I loved both of their vibes. As I said, the romance didn’t fully connect for me, but the spice was spicing! One thing I’ve come to learn and love about C. Hebert books is that she completely surprises me with her twists and endings, and this one did not disappoint!

This one didn’t quite connect for me and that’s totally okay! If you’re looking for a fast-paced, Disney villain coded sapphic enemies to lovers with some spice, this one is for you!

Fav quotes:
“Regardless of the outcome of this game, I knew one thing for sure: I didn’t just want her soul, I wanted her.”

“Now let me worship you like the goddess you are.”

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Side is a dark, sapphic fantasy written by C. Hebert. For a book that is a quick read at only 181 pages, the characters are more complex than I had anticipated. One of my favorite characters was not a main character but a side one! Tuft, my sweet Pegasus, captured my attention from the very beginning. The book was fast-paced and fun to read!

The book follows Iris Marie, a bayou witch who makes a deal with Cypress, the goddess of the underworld. I mean, would you turn down a deal to get anything you desire in exchange for a favor? I don’t think I would turn it down, either! Iris has become well-known in the bayou for the thirteen years since accepting the offer. I loved Iris and how she grew into herself and her newfound power. Cypress, you tricky, tricky goddess! I should have known better! Just when I felt horribly for her because she was stuck in this purgatory, you go and make me gasp!

This fast-paced book gives you developed, memorable characters, fantastic imagery, magical world-building, and a delicious plot! This was my first book by C. Hebert, but it will not be my last.

Thanks to C. Hebert for gifting me an eARC of The Other Side. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachel bookin.withrach · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do we have a deal, Iris-Marie?”

The Other Side follows Iris-Marie, the witch of the bayou, and Cypress, the goddess of death. This book is a sapphic villainous retelling that is full of witchy things, soul sucking, heartbreak, love and and an ending that I never saw coming..

“Let me show you what it truly means to be touched by a god.”

😮‍💨 and Cypress did just that. Man I am not match for a god but Iris-Marie sure was. The way she really took that deal and ran with it. From the moment Cypress went to collect her end of the deal it was game over for these two.

“If you crave me so deeply, soul eater, then take me. Consume me.”

This book consumed me. Cypress and Iris-Marie’s tension.. the nicknames… the gods. It was almost too much. The descriptions of the gods and their respective domains was spectacular. It painted the reader the most vivid pictures and made the story all the more consuming. And the side characters?! (Animals included) Stop they were so perfect. I don’t know if I’ll ever recover.

“Cypress had broken me, yet somehow, despite all she had done to me, I still fucking loved her.”

Same Iris-Marie same. That damn soul sucker really knows how to hit you where it hurts. Seriously yall go grab yourself a copy today. Available now on KU.

[Erin Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨

ARC REVIEW

The Other Side - C Hebert

4/5⭐️

📚📚📚
This one was truly such a great read but damn did it hurt my heart at so many points too! This novella is jammed pack with gods, the shadows, spice, magic, and some intense revenge! The way this book had me clicking my kindle so fast to find out answers and to just gasp and pace by the end. The side characters were top notch in here and had me smiling hard. Bastian and Tuft will forever be some favorite characters for me. Overall I did really enjoy this and totally recommend adding to your tbr!

📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- Villain retelling sapphic romance
- Magic
- Cat and mouse
- Forced proximity
- Betrayal
- Revenge
- Shadows
- Soul eater
- Obsession
… You should definitely check this out

📚📚📚

Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy

✨what’s a book that’s had you pacing before? If not what’s a book rec for an above trope?

#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc

[in a world of ink · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Side is a sapphic Hades/Dr. Facilier reimagining that follows Cypress, the soul eater, Iris-Marie, our bayou witch, and Tuft, our resident Pegasus and Bastian, our pet alligator. There is no HEA.

Iris-Marie starts out the book as a small-time trickster getting chased through the bayou by two men until she gets saved by Bastian and dragged to the underworld to meet Cypress. Cypress strikes up a deal with Iris-Marie that she absolutely can not refuse and seals it with a kiss.

Cypress is diabolical and manipulative. She does Iris-Marie so dirty with her do I love her, or do I hate her routine. Their chemistry, though? Life altering. Soul shattering. “You are mine, my dear Iris- Marie, even if only for one night. My goddess.” Like... COME ON 🥵🥵🥵

Tuft, my blue haired boy. He deserved better than what he got put through, but I loved his ending. I absolutely love a good emotional support character.

Overall, this is definitely a 4 star Novella. It's a little under 200 pages, fast-paced and well written. It also helps that it's a C. Hebert book! I can't wait to see what they come up with next!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

₮ⱧɆ Ø₮ⱧɆⱤ ₴łĐɆ- ₵. ⱧɆ฿ɆⱤ₮

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

𝘼 𝙨𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘, 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙨, 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙜𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣. 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙖𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝙒𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙁𝙈𝘾’𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣��𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜.

ᴄʏᴘʀᴇss, ǫᴜᴇᴇɴ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀᴡᴏʀʟᴅ, ʜᴀs ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ᴍᴀɴʏ ᴅᴇᴀʟs ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍᴀɴʏ ʜᴜᴍᴀɴs ғᴏʀ ᴄᴇɴᴛᴜʀɪᴇs. ᴄᴏʟʟᴇᴄᴛɪɴɢ sᴏᴜʟs ᴀʟᴏɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ. ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇᴀᴜᴛʏ ᴏғ ʜᴇʀ ᴇᴛʜᴇʀᴇᴀʟ ғᴏʀᴍ ɪs ʟɪᴋᴇ ɴᴏ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ, ʙᴜᴛ ʜᴇʀ ᴛʀᴜᴇ ғᴏʀᴍ ɪs ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛᴍᴀʀᴇs ᴀʀᴇ ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ᴏғ. ᴄᴀɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɢᴏᴅᴅᴇss ᴏғ ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ ʙᴇ ᴛʀᴜsᴛᴇᴅ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜ?

ɪʀɪs-ᴍᴀʀɪᴇ, ɪs ᴀ sᴛʀᴏɴɢ-ᴡɪʟʟᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛᴄʜ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴊᴜsᴛ ᴀ ғʟɪᴄᴋᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ. ᴀʟʟ sʜᴇ ᴡᴀɴᴛs ɪs ᴛᴏ sʜᴏᴡ ʜᴇʀ sᴍᴀʟʟ ʙᴀʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏᴡɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ sʜᴇ ɪs ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀғᴜʟ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴛᴀᴋᴇɴ sᴇʀɪᴏᴜsʟʏ. ɪs sʜᴇ ᴡɪʟʟɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ᴀ ᴅᴇᴀʟ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ǫᴜᴇᴇɴ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀᴡᴏʀʟᴅ? ᴏɴᴇ ғᴀᴠᴏʀ ᴏᴡᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴄʏᴘʀᴇss ɪɴ ᴇxᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ғᴏʀ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴛʜɪɴɢ ɪʀɪs-ᴍᴀʀɪᴇ ᴅᴇsɪʀᴇs. ᴏɴᴇ ғᴀᴠᴏʀ sʜᴇ ᴄᴀɴɴᴏᴛ ʀᴇғᴜsᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪғ sʜᴇ ғᴀɪʟs, ʜᴇʀ sᴏᴜʟ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇʟᴏɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴄʏᴘʀᴇss.

“𝕯𝖔 𝖜𝖊 𝖍𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖆 𝖉𝖊𝖆𝖑, 𝕴𝖗𝖎𝖘-𝕸𝖆𝖗𝖎𝖊?”