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Choke Me, Darling
I’m not even kidding—'Choke Me, Darling' is disturbing, depraved, and completely unhinged. Arius Whitlocke? He’s not your dream book boyfriend—he’s your worst nightmare wrapped in expensive suits and a cruel smirk. He’s obsessive, possessive, and doesn’t take no for an answer. Briar West? She walked straight into hell, and now she has to figure out if she wants to escape… or if she likes it there.
This book has dubious consent, brutal power plays, a secret society, and triggers on top of triggers. There's even a Hunt, so enjoy that adrenaline rush. It’s dark. It’s twisted. It’s not safe, not sweet, and definitely not for the weak.
If you want fluffy romance and golden retrievers—look somewhere else. But if you secretly love the books that make you question your morals? Welcome to Ashtiroch Academy.
You’ve been warned. But let’s be real—you’re gonna read it anyway.
Official
She thought she was escaping the gutter. She was wrong.
Briar West claws her way into Ashtiroch Academy, a prestigious institution where the elite indulge in depravity behind gilded walls. She soon discovers she's a pawn in a twisted game, a sacrifice to be played with and broken. But Briar is far fiercer than they anticipate. One arrogant Duke with piercing eyes and a penchant for pain. Three other mates who won't back down. And a secret society with centuries of disturbing traditions. Can she survive the trials? Or will she unleash her own brand of hellfire? Dive into a world of dark desires, where obedience is tested, and only the strong survive.
Prepare for a ride that's both shocking and undeniably addictive.
*Please review the TWs on my website, or in the sample, for a full list prior to purchase. Your mental health matters! Links can be found on Facebook/Tiktok.
This book has dubious consent, brutal power plays, a secret society, and triggers on top of triggers. There's even a Hunt, so enjoy that adrenaline rush. It’s dark. It’s twisted. It’s not safe, not sweet, and definitely not for the weak.
If you want fluffy romance and golden retrievers—look somewhere else. But if you secretly love the books that make you question your morals? Welcome to Ashtiroch Academy.
You’ve been warned. But let’s be real—you’re gonna read it anyway.
Official
She thought she was escaping the gutter. She was wrong.
Briar West claws her way into Ashtiroch Academy, a prestigious institution where the elite indulge in depravity behind gilded walls. She soon discovers she's a pawn in a twisted game, a sacrifice to be played with and broken. But Briar is far fiercer than they anticipate. One arrogant Duke with piercing eyes and a penchant for pain. Three other mates who won't back down. And a secret society with centuries of disturbing traditions. Can she survive the trials? Or will she unleash her own brand of hellfire? Dive into a world of dark desires, where obedience is tested, and only the strong survive.
Prepare for a ride that's both shocking and undeniably addictive.
*Please review the TWs on my website, or in the sample, for a full list prior to purchase. Your mental health matters! Links can be found on Facebook/Tiktok.
633 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
22 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 3, 2025
I loved the dark academia culty dark romance vibes through the book.
Please check your trigger warnings before reading, but if that doesn't bother you, then give it a go.
I will start that it felt like it started off slower, and I caught myself having to reread portions and I think that was due to the vocabulary that was chosen but once I was fully immersed into the story, the ending came and I was left like the meme looking around for more.
I loved Jace & Hayes, and I want to know so much more about their relationship. I also want to see how their relationship dynamic incorporates the other main characters.
I enjoyed watching Briar - the FMC's growth during the book. At the beginning, I wasn't sure if I was going to like her, but she grew on me. Of course she attends the school thinking she's earned this prestigious scholarship only to realize that there is something dark and deeper hidden behind the facade the school puts out. Arius is a man who does not like to give up control- total dom vibes, and I am here for it.
I can't wait to read whatever comes next!
Please check your trigger warnings before reading, but if that doesn't bother you, then give it a go.
I will start that it felt like it started off slower, and I caught myself having to reread portions and I think that was due to the vocabulary that was chosen but once I was fully immersed into the story, the ending came and I was left like the meme looking around for more.
I loved Jace & Hayes, and I want to know so much more about their relationship. I also want to see how their relationship dynamic incorporates the other main characters.
I enjoyed watching Briar - the FMC's growth during the book. At the beginning, I wasn't sure if I was going to like her, but she grew on me. Of course she attends the school thinking she's earned this prestigious scholarship only to realize that there is something dark and deeper hidden behind the facade the school puts out. Arius is a man who does not like to give up control- total dom vibes, and I am here for it.
I can't wait to read whatever comes next!
February 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⚠️Check Your TWs
This book had me questioning everything and nothing at the same time. At one point, I just decided I was along for the ride that Odessa had written for me, and I wasn't disappointed. The characters and setting she created made me feel so many emotions. Gritty. Happy. Sad. Mad. I wanna punch someone.
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⚠️Check Your TWs
This book had me questioning everything and nothing at the same time. At one point, I just decided I was along for the ride that Odessa had written for me, and I wasn't disappointed. The characters and setting she created made me feel so many emotions. Gritty. Happy. Sad. Mad. I wanna punch someone.
February 23, 2025
Title: Choke Me, Darling
(Lyres & Thieves Book 1)
Author: Odessa Savage
Release: February 1, 2025
Pages: 633
Genre: Dark Academia Romance
Main Characters: Arius & Briar, Rhys, Jace and Hayes
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, RH/Poly, Trauma Bonding, Dark Secrets, Forbidden Romance
*Check Trigger Warnings*
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3/5
Entering Ashtiroch Academy under the pretext of higher education and a better life, Briar West defines this as her new start. She quickly meets the leering Arius Whitlocke and his three mates: Rhys, Jace, and Hayes. While the men seem to have a distaste for her, there is an even more deviant behavior at play regarding the new “scholarship” recruit.
The quadrant of men is tasked with handling Briar’s initiation at the Academy. Once Briar realizes this is no ordinary school, twists and turns begin to unfold that will leave your mind reeling. With the author’s descriptive writing and onslaught of information, you feel the scenes as if you’re there instead of just reading them. The relationships between the characters are vastly different than you would anticipate.
There is an intensity between Briar and Arius that you won’t be able to ignore. The steam leaving these pages will have you sweating. Though you’ll also experience a whirlwind of other emotions. This book sends you on a rollercoaster of emotional distress. There were moments where I was truly overwhelmed; one moment I was seething, while the next chapter had me swooning.
I felt the author did an amazing job at creating this storyline, though you are left wanting more. This book doesn’t end with resolution, and you will be sorely disappointed if you think you will understand anything that is going on by then in the final chapter. I cannot wait to continue this journey; it’s one I didn’t expect, but am more than ready for. I enjoyed this author’s work immensely and can easily say that I’m a huge fan of her work.
I started this book off honestly wondering if it was for me because the writing style is different from what I’m used to reading, but a few chapters in, I was utterly captivated and couldn’t put it down. Odessa Savage wrote a 5-star read, and you won’t be disappointed if you give it a try!
Ashtiroch Academy and its incredulous members will suck you in, and you won’t want to resurface until the last word….
(Lyres & Thieves Book 1)
Author: Odessa Savage
Release: February 1, 2025
Pages: 633
Genre: Dark Academia Romance
Main Characters: Arius & Briar, Rhys, Jace and Hayes
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, RH/Poly, Trauma Bonding, Dark Secrets, Forbidden Romance
*Check Trigger Warnings*
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3/5
Entering Ashtiroch Academy under the pretext of higher education and a better life, Briar West defines this as her new start. She quickly meets the leering Arius Whitlocke and his three mates: Rhys, Jace, and Hayes. While the men seem to have a distaste for her, there is an even more deviant behavior at play regarding the new “scholarship” recruit.
The quadrant of men is tasked with handling Briar’s initiation at the Academy. Once Briar realizes this is no ordinary school, twists and turns begin to unfold that will leave your mind reeling. With the author’s descriptive writing and onslaught of information, you feel the scenes as if you’re there instead of just reading them. The relationships between the characters are vastly different than you would anticipate.
There is an intensity between Briar and Arius that you won’t be able to ignore. The steam leaving these pages will have you sweating. Though you’ll also experience a whirlwind of other emotions. This book sends you on a rollercoaster of emotional distress. There were moments where I was truly overwhelmed; one moment I was seething, while the next chapter had me swooning.
I felt the author did an amazing job at creating this storyline, though you are left wanting more. This book doesn’t end with resolution, and you will be sorely disappointed if you think you will understand anything that is going on by then in the final chapter. I cannot wait to continue this journey; it’s one I didn’t expect, but am more than ready for. I enjoyed this author’s work immensely and can easily say that I’m a huge fan of her work.
I started this book off honestly wondering if it was for me because the writing style is different from what I’m used to reading, but a few chapters in, I was utterly captivated and couldn’t put it down. Odessa Savage wrote a 5-star read, and you won’t be disappointed if you give it a try!
Ashtiroch Academy and its incredulous members will suck you in, and you won’t want to resurface until the last word….
February 4, 2025
First, please read the content warnings before reading, this story is dark.
Buckle up readers for a deliciously depraved and deviant ride. Odessa Savage has crafted a new adult story that takes place at a deceptively twisted university that is actually the training and recruiting ground for a depraved secret society. Briar has worked and sacrificed to make to where she is now. She arrives at Ashtiroch Academy believing she received a prestigious scholarship. On her first day she meets Arius and his friends Jace, Hayes, and Rhys. She shows her fiery attitude which leaves a lasting impression. What Briar doesn’t know is she was brought to this university for a purpose. Arius doesn’t waste time showing Briar how things actually work and who holds the power. We follow this group as they put Briar through different trials set by the Elders of the secret society and crone of a woman Hansley. The MMCs don’t seem to have any redeemable qualities and you can’t help but hate them. As the trials get worse, we see Arius start to crumble and show some humanity that wasn’t beaten out of him yet. The story ends on a cliffhanger with the group trying to find a way to leave the university and hide from the society. I am excited to see what the next book takes Briar and Arius’ relationship and how the group fights to survive.
A big reason this isn’t a 5 star read for me is how the author overly used descriptive words for a scene, character’s appearance or feelings. I love a good description to paint a picture, but this went a little far. Also, sometimes the chapters ended and picked up and we missed what I thought would be a big scene off page or it was such an abrupt change it was jarring.
Again, please read the tw/cw before reading, this story is dark.
4⭐️
3.5🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
Buckle up readers for a deliciously depraved and deviant ride. Odessa Savage has crafted a new adult story that takes place at a deceptively twisted university that is actually the training and recruiting ground for a depraved secret society. Briar has worked and sacrificed to make to where she is now. She arrives at Ashtiroch Academy believing she received a prestigious scholarship. On her first day she meets Arius and his friends Jace, Hayes, and Rhys. She shows her fiery attitude which leaves a lasting impression. What Briar doesn’t know is she was brought to this university for a purpose. Arius doesn’t waste time showing Briar how things actually work and who holds the power. We follow this group as they put Briar through different trials set by the Elders of the secret society and crone of a woman Hansley. The MMCs don’t seem to have any redeemable qualities and you can’t help but hate them. As the trials get worse, we see Arius start to crumble and show some humanity that wasn’t beaten out of him yet. The story ends on a cliffhanger with the group trying to find a way to leave the university and hide from the society. I am excited to see what the next book takes Briar and Arius’ relationship and how the group fights to survive.
A big reason this isn’t a 5 star read for me is how the author overly used descriptive words for a scene, character’s appearance or feelings. I love a good description to paint a picture, but this went a little far. Also, sometimes the chapters ended and picked up and we missed what I thought would be a big scene off page or it was such an abrupt change it was jarring.
Again, please read the tw/cw before reading, this story is dark.
4⭐️
3.5🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
February 1, 2025
This is a great opening to this dark academia series - there's a ton of triggers, a cultish secret society and some mystery to keep up intrigue!
I really like the characters, we have some great dynamics from the men, Aruis has the world baring down on him and his cracks are starting to show, Rhys hasn't given us a lot yet but I am so excited to see his character flesh out and get some more background to him. I really enjoyed the MM relationship between Hayes and Jace, Hayes is clearly a bit tortured and Jace is a bit of a psycho while still being our comedic relief character. The author has said this series is Rh/Poly and I'm really interested to see where Briar fits into Hayes and Jace's pairing. I did find Briar a little brash at the beginning but I think her development from about halfway through was really well done, I am interested to see how she handles things going forward.
My only complaint with this one is the length and the wording - the author has done a great job of making the guys high education come across on page but in some sections this translated to a bit difficult to read and overly complicated. I think with some of the over-explanation taken out it would have also shortened the book without taking away from the overall story.
As the book got further in and the plot picked up I noticed it got a lot easier to read and understand, I barely noticed how little I had left until it was over! Can't wait for the next one!
I really like the characters, we have some great dynamics from the men, Aruis has the world baring down on him and his cracks are starting to show, Rhys hasn't given us a lot yet but I am so excited to see his character flesh out and get some more background to him. I really enjoyed the MM relationship between Hayes and Jace, Hayes is clearly a bit tortured and Jace is a bit of a psycho while still being our comedic relief character. The author has said this series is Rh/Poly and I'm really interested to see where Briar fits into Hayes and Jace's pairing. I did find Briar a little brash at the beginning but I think her development from about halfway through was really well done, I am interested to see how she handles things going forward.
My only complaint with this one is the length and the wording - the author has done a great job of making the guys high education come across on page but in some sections this translated to a bit difficult to read and overly complicated. I think with some of the over-explanation taken out it would have also shortened the book without taking away from the overall story.
As the book got further in and the plot picked up I noticed it got a lot easier to read and understand, I barely noticed how little I had left until it was over! Can't wait for the next one!
January 15, 2025
Loved the overall premise of this book. Dark Academia. Secret Society. Hidden Secrets. All the good tropes and a nice lengthy trigger warnings list? Sign me up!!
The concept and plot was good, but I do wish there was more in-depth character development overall (maybe we will see that in the next book 😉). I felt like I should FEEL more toward the guys empathetically because of all the lightly mentioned shit they've been through, but there wasn't a deep dive into it.
Arius is clearly giving dom vibes and has control issues but is a teddy bear underneath, Rhys is quietly pining (was hoping for more than a solo snuggle sesh for them, but I'm hopeful for the future). Jace and Hayes are precious, and I'm excited to learn more about their relationship dynamic.
My only major grievance is the clear excessive use of a thesaurus while writing this one. I'm not one to typically dislike descriptive language as a whole, but it felt like everything outside of the character's dialogue was too much fluff and metaphors and made it difficult for me to read until I got quite a ways into the book. Could've been much shorter and still just as good without all the pretty filler words.
Overall, enjoyable and I want to know what happens next, so I will be watching for the next one! ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The concept and plot was good, but I do wish there was more in-depth character development overall (maybe we will see that in the next book 😉). I felt like I should FEEL more toward the guys empathetically because of all the lightly mentioned shit they've been through, but there wasn't a deep dive into it.
Arius is clearly giving dom vibes and has control issues but is a teddy bear underneath, Rhys is quietly pining (was hoping for more than a solo snuggle sesh for them, but I'm hopeful for the future). Jace and Hayes are precious, and I'm excited to learn more about their relationship dynamic.
My only major grievance is the clear excessive use of a thesaurus while writing this one. I'm not one to typically dislike descriptive language as a whole, but it felt like everything outside of the character's dialogue was too much fluff and metaphors and made it difficult for me to read until I got quite a ways into the book. Could've been much shorter and still just as good without all the pretty filler words.
Overall, enjoyable and I want to know what happens next, so I will be watching for the next one! ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2025
Love me some dark academia romance with a mile long trigger list 😮💨
I did enjoy this book. It had a good storyline to it. I liked the characters as well I do wish there was more to their character development though. I loved Arius who was the morally gray hothead alpha a hole 😂 but deep down was a softy especially for Briar. I wish we got more out of Rhys I feel there is something mysterious about him and I wanted more between him and Briar. And I love the relationship between Jace and Hayes was adorable. Love to see where that takes them. I feel it is a RH and I really am wanting it to be but at this point I’m not sure and kinda makes me sad 😂 maybe in the next book!
I absolutely couldn’t stand Hansley 😂😂 I hope she gets what’s coming to her hahahah
I do think it could have been much shorter and would have been just as good! And I do feel the word choice was used too much in areas. Plus some chapters were way too long and dragged on into other chapters that I felt wasn’t exactly necessary.
But overall it was still a great read and I can’t wait to read the next book! I’ll be patiently biting my nails to what happens next!
I did enjoy this book. It had a good storyline to it. I liked the characters as well I do wish there was more to their character development though. I loved Arius who was the morally gray hothead alpha a hole 😂 but deep down was a softy especially for Briar. I wish we got more out of Rhys I feel there is something mysterious about him and I wanted more between him and Briar. And I love the relationship between Jace and Hayes was adorable. Love to see where that takes them. I feel it is a RH and I really am wanting it to be but at this point I’m not sure and kinda makes me sad 😂 maybe in the next book!
I absolutely couldn’t stand Hansley 😂😂 I hope she gets what’s coming to her hahahah
I do think it could have been much shorter and would have been just as good! And I do feel the word choice was used too much in areas. Plus some chapters were way too long and dragged on into other chapters that I felt wasn’t exactly necessary.
But overall it was still a great read and I can’t wait to read the next book! I’ll be patiently biting my nails to what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2025
Wow, seriously just wow...im blown away by this book and author..
Briar starts at a new academy, believing that she has won a scholarship. On her first day she meets Arius, a cold calculating and devious male along with his friends. They especially Arius start to terrorize her showing her just how sick twisted and depraved the academy really is.
My favorite quote has got to be ...Give it a rest before you give us a coronary, Glitterballs ..
(Shows how well the banter between the characters is, well hilarious and well done).
If you like thourghly depraved, possibly irredeemable males, and a book full of triggers ...so yes check them. Then this book is for you.
The male leads honestly appear rather dark and twisted...living in a world where they are used to twisting everything around them to suit their own desires....or maybe there is more going on..
I loved this book and I really want to read more...
Briar starts at a new academy, believing that she has won a scholarship. On her first day she meets Arius, a cold calculating and devious male along with his friends. They especially Arius start to terrorize her showing her just how sick twisted and depraved the academy really is.
My favorite quote has got to be ...Give it a rest before you give us a coronary, Glitterballs ..
(Shows how well the banter between the characters is, well hilarious and well done).
If you like thourghly depraved, possibly irredeemable males, and a book full of triggers ...so yes check them. Then this book is for you.
The male leads honestly appear rather dark and twisted...living in a world where they are used to twisting everything around them to suit their own desires....or maybe there is more going on..
I loved this book and I really want to read more...
January 19, 2025
Before I give my thoughts, this is a dark romance. Please read the content warnings for it. Now, for my review. There were times that I struggled with what I was reading because the writing is so descriptive that I felt immersed in the scene. The word choice throughout the book was stellar, and the description rivaled Anne Rice but kept me hooked.The character growth that took place was also incredible. I think Arius and Briar had the most growth with Arius learning to give up some control, and Briar learning that she can be strong and opinionated but still choose to submit at times. I think the book also did a fantastic job showing that submission is something that is given, not forced in a healthy dynamic (not specifically a BDSM book). Briar and Arius also learn to humble themselves. There is really so much that I could say about this book because it was that good. I am absolutely hooked and cannot wait for the next book.
February 5, 2025
Dark, twisted, and makes you question yourself
Briar only wanted the opportunity to go to a prestigious school to get out of the dead-end life she had. Instead, she’s thrust into a world where everything wrong is allowed and she’s both the bait and the prize in a game she didn’t sign up for, and her survival alongside with Arius, Rhys, Jace, and Hayes, all depends on how far she’s willing to go.
Choke Me, Darling is at times, fuel for your worst nightmares and other times your most uninhibited and untamed desires. The question is, are you strong enough to make it through what Briar did? And do you have the conviction to carry on? Step inside these hallowed halls, where nightmares are as real as dreams, and see if you can survive what awaits you.
Story: 5 ⭐️
Smut: 5 🌶️ and 🍆 each
Worth it? Abso-freaking-lutely.
Briar only wanted the opportunity to go to a prestigious school to get out of the dead-end life she had. Instead, she’s thrust into a world where everything wrong is allowed and she’s both the bait and the prize in a game she didn’t sign up for, and her survival alongside with Arius, Rhys, Jace, and Hayes, all depends on how far she’s willing to go.
Choke Me, Darling is at times, fuel for your worst nightmares and other times your most uninhibited and untamed desires. The question is, are you strong enough to make it through what Briar did? And do you have the conviction to carry on? Step inside these hallowed halls, where nightmares are as real as dreams, and see if you can survive what awaits you.
Story: 5 ⭐️
Smut: 5 🌶️ and 🍆 each
Worth it? Abso-freaking-lutely.
January 17, 2025
This book is darker than my usual reads, and yet I thoroughly and wholly enjoyed reading about Briar and her Men. From the first chapter i was enthralled in learning what lurks behind the corners for Rough & Tumble Briar. She's no delicate flower, she's got a smart mouth and tons of sass (and I love that about her) always poking the bear so to speak lol. The twists and turns aren't what you'd expect, especially in an academy setting, but if you follow the foreshadowing, you'll know it's going to be dark. I honestly cannot wait to see where their journey takes them, with all of the shifts they deal with in this book alone. If you're a Dark Romance Reader, or someone looking for a different kind of story, I definitely recommend this for you!
January 20, 2025
Choke Me Darling is book one in the Lyres & Thieves Book series.
FMC -Brair
MMC - Arius, Hayes, Jace and Rhys.
Secret society - check
Major A-holes check
Dark and deprived - double check
Check your trigger warnings before starting this book.
Briar believes she won a scholarship to the Ashtiroch Academy, when she gets there she starts to learn how different things for the "upper class" really are.
Love all the twist and turns in the book, the plot is great and I really liked the banter between the different characters and that the FMC is sassy and does not back down.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series and get to know the characters better.
Would highly recommend it to anyone who loves dark romances and are fans of reverse harems.
FMC -Brair
MMC - Arius, Hayes, Jace and Rhys.
Secret society - check
Major A-holes check
Dark and deprived - double check
Check your trigger warnings before starting this book.
Briar believes she won a scholarship to the Ashtiroch Academy, when she gets there she starts to learn how different things for the "upper class" really are.
Love all the twist and turns in the book, the plot is great and I really liked the banter between the different characters and that the FMC is sassy and does not back down.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series and get to know the characters better.
Would highly recommend it to anyone who loves dark romances and are fans of reverse harems.
January 30, 2025
Excuse me but that dedication page…. 🔥
Check your trigger warnings before reading this!
I loved the characters … Arius is my new boo thang, however I feel like there was room for development with all of them. I felt like the details were too in depth in parts that weren’t important and there were lots of “filler” words and a heavy use of a thesaurus. A lot of this could’ve been take out and used the words for more character development. It takes a while to really get into it and I think it’s partly because of the things I’ve mentioned above, but the story does get to the point where it grabs your attention and puts you in a chokehold. I’m trying to avoid spoilers so I’ll end this by saying I am excited to see how this story develops because it has amazing potential!
Check your trigger warnings before reading this!
I loved the characters … Arius is my new boo thang, however I feel like there was room for development with all of them. I felt like the details were too in depth in parts that weren’t important and there were lots of “filler” words and a heavy use of a thesaurus. A lot of this could’ve been take out and used the words for more character development. It takes a while to really get into it and I think it’s partly because of the things I’ve mentioned above, but the story does get to the point where it grabs your attention and puts you in a chokehold. I’m trying to avoid spoilers so I’ll end this by saying I am excited to see how this story develops because it has amazing potential!
February 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the 1st book of the author, and it won't be my last. Loved it!
This is a dark spicy academia book with a mile long trigger warning list, so please make sure you check that out first!
Briar ended up at Ashtiroch Academy, believing she received a prestigious scholarship, when actually she was brought here for a reason.
Ashtiroch Academy is a university that is a recruiting ground for a secret society.
Briar meets the guys on her first day and makes quite the impression.
Arius and his friends Jace, Hayes, and Rhys are the MMCs.
Briar goes through trials set by the Elders of the Secret Society. Her survival depends on how far she’s willing to go.
The story does end on a cliffhanger, so be aware. I am excited to see what happened next.
This is the 1st book of the author, and it won't be my last. Loved it!
This is a dark spicy academia book with a mile long trigger warning list, so please make sure you check that out first!
Briar ended up at Ashtiroch Academy, believing she received a prestigious scholarship, when actually she was brought here for a reason.
Ashtiroch Academy is a university that is a recruiting ground for a secret society.
Briar meets the guys on her first day and makes quite the impression.
Arius and his friends Jace, Hayes, and Rhys are the MMCs.
Briar goes through trials set by the Elders of the Secret Society. Her survival depends on how far she’s willing to go.
The story does end on a cliffhanger, so be aware. I am excited to see what happened next.
January 28, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book is a deliciously dark academia. I love the authors wording and descriptions. She really brings you into the book. There are a few languages spoken in the book the author has a list in the front of the book. I cannot wait until book 2 comes out. I am dying to find out how this all comes together.
🩶 Why Choose
🖤 Forced Proxcimity
🩶 Brand!ng &
🖤 Dark Academia
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤 Check your warnings- front of the book
📖 633 pages
🎶 Playlist on Spotify
🩶 Multi language- author has list in book
This book is a deliciously dark academia. I love the authors wording and descriptions. She really brings you into the book. There are a few languages spoken in the book the author has a list in the front of the book. I cannot wait until book 2 comes out. I am dying to find out how this all comes together.
🩶 Why Choose
🖤 Forced Proxcimity
🩶 Brand!ng &
🖤 Dark Academia
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤 Check your warnings- front of the book
📖 633 pages
🎶 Playlist on Spotify
🩶 Multi language- author has list in book
January 12, 2025
I can honestly say that the RH tropes get so... boring sometimes because it ends up being the same story... Choke Me Darling is like a breath of fresh air on this trope. This book had me on the edge of my seat needing more. It is intense and will have you feeling a whoorl wind of emotions. Choke Me Darling is spicy and will keep you wanting more. Of who? You can decide or why choose at all?
Welcome to Ashtiroch Academy.
Welcome to Ashtiroch Academy.
February 5, 2025
This book was great, but very dark, so please take note of the TW's. While the world-building and story were great, I did find that it was a bit too wordy and it took me out of the story every now and then.
Briar and her men Arius, Hayes, Jace & Rhys are all so delicious to read about.
Briar shows up to Ashtiroch Academy believing she won a scholarship for the prestigious school, but things are not as they seem, and she slowly starts to realize the upper class has got some secrets.
Read this if you like:
*Why Choose
*Dark Romance
*Academy Romance
*Secret Societies
Favorite Character: Briar. She is a TRUE Badass heroine.
Favorite Quote: "Give it a rest before you give us a coronary, glitterballs"
Thank you to Odessa Savage for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Briar and her men Arius, Hayes, Jace & Rhys are all so delicious to read about.
Briar shows up to Ashtiroch Academy believing she won a scholarship for the prestigious school, but things are not as they seem, and she slowly starts to realize the upper class has got some secrets.
Read this if you like:
*Why Choose
*Dark Romance
*Academy Romance
*Secret Societies
Favorite Character: Briar. She is a TRUE Badass heroine.
Favorite Quote: "Give it a rest before you give us a coronary, glitterballs"
Thank you to Odessa Savage for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2025
Choke Me, Darling is a dark romance academia RH. This is the first book in the Lyres and Thieves Series. It is an amazing book and I loved it. This is a longer read, but not once did my mind wander off and it kept my focus all the way through! The author does an amazing job with descriptions of characters and surroundings. Do remember to check your triggers before starting. This book is so delicious and I highly recommend it! I look forward to the next book!!! Great job Odessa!!!
January 25, 2025
This book is no sweet, easy to devour dessert, it's a full three course meal. The rich and descriptive vocabulary makes you swirl all those delicious words around in your mind. They settle in your gut and draw out deep passionate emotions. It has a fair bit of bite to it and plenty of spice and leaves you deeply satisfied as you continue to digest it for hours. Absolutely delicious.
February 18, 2025
The grammar in this is exquisite and descriptive. You could picture everything even the way they talk. Of course check your triggers but if you don’t have any read this book! It is so amazing and Briar doesn’t give up she keeps her spirit she just learns to bend some for the people she cares about. I couldn’t stop reading this it was so good, you should definitely give it a chance
January 7, 2025
If you love depraved men and a book full of triggers then please check this book out. I can't wait for book two to. This was such an amazing book and worth the read. Thank you Odessa Savage for the ARC you did a great job
January 21, 2025
Arius arius arius 😫😭 this man I stg. I ate this book all the way up. The story line was 🤌🏻, the way I couldn’t stop laughing in the beginning because of the back and forth between briar and arius ☠️. I absolutely loved this book sm & I cannot wait for the next book. Please read the triggers!
January 30, 2025
⭐️Always always always check trigger warnings and remember that your mental health is important!⭐️
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Even though it was long, it was never boring and definitely a book I’d read again!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Even though it was long, it was never boring and definitely a book I’d read again!
January 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. What a wild ride, kept me glued to my kindle I liked the storyline a lot. Enjoyed that characters, well developed. So can’t wait for book 2!!
April 26, 2025
Please read the trigger warnings before reading! I loved it so much and can’t wait for the second book!
February 1, 2025
Choke Me, Darling is not your regular academy dark romance. It is refreshingly more than just the standard misunderstandings and poor communication tropes that you find in many other stores of the same genre. Thank you Odessa!
The FMC, Briar, is a bad ass who doesn't just roll over and accept the terrible situations she finds herself in. Instead, she gives as much as she gets and from that you see her turn that adversity into her strength.
The MMCs, Jace, Hayes, Rhys & Arius, all have their dark histories that feed into their interactions with Briar and at first you see them as the villains of the story. But eventually you see past their darkness and find yourself rooting for them and hoping they find their way to a HEA - all in one piece.
I can't wait for the next book so I can see how the rest of the story unfolds!
The FMC, Briar, is a bad ass who doesn't just roll over and accept the terrible situations she finds herself in. Instead, she gives as much as she gets and from that you see her turn that adversity into her strength.
The MMCs, Jace, Hayes, Rhys & Arius, all have their dark histories that feed into their interactions with Briar and at first you see them as the villains of the story. But eventually you see past their darkness and find yourself rooting for them and hoping they find their way to a HEA - all in one piece.
I can't wait for the next book so I can see how the rest of the story unfolds!
February 9, 2025
Overall:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall, I loved the premise of this book. I live for a dark and twisty dark academia romance. I loved the characters, but I hoped they would have had more depth to them, but there is always book two for that. I loved the FMC because she took no crap from the boys and gave them a run for their money. I found myself very intrigued by the secret society that existed in the story and thought it was well thought out. All that to say, I am very excited to read the next book and cannot wait to get more of this story.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall, I loved the premise of this book. I live for a dark and twisty dark academia romance. I loved the characters, but I hoped they would have had more depth to them, but there is always book two for that. I loved the FMC because she took no crap from the boys and gave them a run for their money. I found myself very intrigued by the secret society that existed in the story and thought it was well thought out. All that to say, I am very excited to read the next book and cannot wait to get more of this story.
January 28, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
As always, please check your trigger warnings before reading.
I took a little extra time reading Choke Me, Darling to fully digest what I was reading than I normally, and I’m so glad I did. Briar is a fiery FMC that got dragged unknowingly into the depths of a secret society. I loved her spirit and fight throughout this book. Arius, my man. He has a dominant personality that thrives on control until he meets Briar. The personal growth between these two is beautifully written throughout the story. Jace, Hayes, and Rhys bring a nice balance to the situation they’re all in while providing banter between themselves and the other main characters while also knowing how to handle Arius when needed. I loved this story and can’t wait to read the next book when it is released. Excellent job, Odessa!
As always, please check your trigger warnings before reading.
I took a little extra time reading Choke Me, Darling to fully digest what I was reading than I normally, and I’m so glad I did. Briar is a fiery FMC that got dragged unknowingly into the depths of a secret society. I loved her spirit and fight throughout this book. Arius, my man. He has a dominant personality that thrives on control until he meets Briar. The personal growth between these two is beautifully written throughout the story. Jace, Hayes, and Rhys bring a nice balance to the situation they’re all in while providing banter between themselves and the other main characters while also knowing how to handle Arius when needed. I loved this story and can’t wait to read the next book when it is released. Excellent job, Odessa!
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