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Bride of the Living Chad

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College student, total Chad, and all around puddle of machismo, Tanner Henry finds his new favorite pornstar, Lena White, in a gif… only to then find out she was burnt beyond recognition in a car fire.

Tanner finds a spell to resurrect her so he can… you know. The biggest issue is that she comes back looking like she vacationed in a tire fire. Lena convinces Tanner to go on a series of quests to restore her former beauty.

A journey filled with weird characters, even weirder Dugong knowledge, and some good deeds. Is it all genuine? Or is Lena up to something else… something that would maybe improve Tanner’s personality and save her from becoming… THE BRIDE OF THE LIVING CHAD!

67 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2025

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29 people want to read

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Damien Casey

26 books88 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for emelie!!.
142 reviews4 followers
March 29, 2025
I have never seen a writing style like this, and boy, do I love it. This Novellas was short, sweet and utterly HILARIOUS! I honestly really enjoyed Tanners journey, and by the end it was really nice to see his growth.

I also really enjoyed the fact that Casey touches on the adult entertainment world, he breaks the barriers and shuts down the damaging stereotypes and mindset that many young men around the world have.
Profile Image for RoseDevoursBooks.
419 reviews82 followers
July 3, 2025
Horror Comedy geeks! If you’re in need of a palette cleanser between all the soul-crushing, gore-soaked horror reads, Bride of the Living Chad is your answer!

The story follows Tanner, who uses a resurrection spell to bring his favorite pornstar back from the dead, only to realize she doesn’t come back looking anything like he remembers…

Tanner is an extremely unlikable and misogynistic character who honestly pissed me off throughout most of the book- but I think that’s very much the point. He does show some growth toward the end, but it’s his idiocy that makes the whole thing quite entertaining. Behind all the absurdity, there’s also a look at the porn industry and a thoughtful reminder that sex work is work, and the people involved are real human beings. I appreciated that layer of honesty underneath all the random chaos.

Lena, the undead love interest, was a standout. I loved how she kept shutting Tanner down and taking control. The whole book is fast, weird, and intentionally nonsensical. There’s cartoon logic everywhere- sock puppet fights, characters who appear out of nowhere and zero realism. While that’s all part of the fun, I’ll admit it felt like there was too much going on at times. There were moments where I struggled to keep up with all the madness, and I kind of wished it had a bit more grounding. But nonetheless, I still enjoyed the ride!

If you’re in the mood to shut your brain off and dive into something that reads like a b-horror flick, give this one a go! Bonus points if you’re a fan of praying mantises and dugongs.

3.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Profile Image for Nisha.
57 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2025
I received a free advance copy via BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book is totally unhinged — in a good way. It leans all the way into absurd comedy, and the long, anime-style chapter titles set the tone right from the start. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I ended up being surprisingly entertained.

The humor is definitely on the outrageous side, and there were moments I had to pause just to laugh (or cringe, lovingly). The author takes risks — like big swings — and while not everything landed perfectly for me, I appreciate how bold the story was. It's not afraid to be weird, and honestly? That’s kind of refreshing.

There’s also more heart in here than I expected. Underneath all the madness, the main character actually grows, and I found myself unexpectedly rooting for the romance. The emotional payoff at the end was sweet and gave the story a sense of closure I didn’t know I needed.

My main critique: the shock humor sometimes overshadowed the story’s more thoughtful elements. I would’ve loved to see more emotional depth explored sooner — it felt like the heart of the story didn’t fully shine until later in the book. A little more balance between chaos and character development would’ve easily bumped this up to a 4 or 5-star read for me.

If you’re into irreverent humor, over-the-top situations, and characters that surprise you in the end, this might be your thing. It’s not for everyone, but it is a wild, oddly touching ride.
Profile Image for Roxanne.
11 reviews8 followers
February 26, 2025
“Are you a philosopher or a pornstar?”

Tanner is the kinda bro I hate. Women are merely there for his objectification and he is an absolute asshole to his roommate, Marty. Fucking A, I want to punch this guy. He finds out that adult film actress Lena White died in a limousine accident. So he attempts to resurrect her and he does! Except she’s not a sex-crazed nymphomaniac. Instead she has intelligence and is going to whip his sorry ass into shape. And she’s like, slightly decomposed. But damn, she’s so sweet! And fuck, do we hate unsolicited dick pics!

Okay, I really liked this. I read it in one sitting and was laughing. I definitely had a good time reading this story and that ending…🥹
Profile Image for Rebecca White.
357 reviews25 followers
March 2, 2025
This novella was everything I wanted it to be.

I needed a quick, lighthearted, funny read and this read fully delivered.

I belly laughed during the opening chapter and it kept up speed the whole way through.

Highly recommend for fans of Christopher Moore or the 1993 classic My Boyfriend’s Back.

Thank you to the author for the ARC!
153 reviews
March 14, 2025
Hilarious, Heartfelt, and Horrifically Hilarious!

"Are you a philosopher or a pornstar?" is a question that perfectly encapsulates the wild, unpredictable ride this book takes you on! I went in expecting a raunchy romp, and while it delivers on the laughs and the sheer absurdity, it also surprised me with its unexpected depth and heart.

Tanner, initially a character you'll love to hate (and want to punch, let's be honest), undergoes a transformation that's both hilarious and touching, thanks to the resurrected Lena. She's not just a "slightly decomposed" dream girl; she's intelligent, witty, and ready to call Tanner out on his BS. The dynamic between them is pure gold, and the dialogue is sharp and laugh-out-loud funny.

Damien Casey masterfully blends horror and comedy, creating a unique and unforgettable reading experience. The story is fast-paced, engaging, and packed with unexpected twists. The ending? Let's just say it left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling, despite the, shall we say, unique circumstances.

This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark humor, quirky characters, and a story that will keep you guessing until the very end. Prepare to laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear (of laughter, or maybe something else!). Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Ghoulfriend_pls.
111 reviews4 followers
March 5, 2025
“Hahaha awesome” is the best way to describe this book. An entertaining read with some fun tropes, morbid humor, awesome character development, and a lot of hilarious and engaging dialogue. It wrapped up well and despite its surface level appeal cemented some rather deep ideals, lessons learned, and things that need to be said. I almost put it down a couple pages in as the main character is pretty polarizing but I am so glad I stuck it out and kept going because it takes a turn that makes it well worth reading. There is so much packed into this short little book. It’s a disgusting wonderful little gem.

Picked this up on a whim based on the cover art and title and I do not regret it in the least! Well worth the read, would definitely recommend this.

Thank you very much to Damien Casey and Book Sirens for the advanced reader copy!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Horror Haus Books.
517 reviews76 followers
May 8, 2025
Damien Casey always coming through with the horror comedies. This was fast paced and had some interesting characters. Tanner is super easy to hate in the beginning, I always love being surprised by the growth. A solid read for sure!
Profile Image for Ziggy Nixon.
1,148 reviews36 followers
May 11, 2025
Damien Casey's "Bride of the Living Chad" is an interesting journey that could easily have been titled "Redemption of the Living Chad". The most successful - and enjoyable - part of the book was the creation of very believable and varied characters that brought forth a wide range of emotions. I mean, let's be honest: it didn't take long until we all really disliked Chad (not his real name, but play along please). His misogynistic, even bullying nature was extremely effective in that regard. Almost to the point where the reader could be excused for not believing his transition could have happened that fast, if at all.

Where the book did not succeed was in the editing. There are far too many mistakes at this stage (ARC) and I hope they get addressed before the official launch. First and foremost, the basic rules of continuing a statement - including punctuation and capitalization - are not adhered to. This became very!!! distracting as they were not only often wrong, but inconsistently wrong (or conversely right). In addition, decisions need to be made in the book to ensure consistency. For example, is it capital-D Dugong (used 15 times) or small-d dugong (used 3 times)? No, it's not a huge deal but I can assure you, if a word is not "common", mistakes will be that much more apparent.

I also had some issue with the ending. In it, it says our demon, Mark, returns them to shortly AFTER Lena's accident. But if Mark can control time, why not return them to BEFORE the accident? I can't see any advantage - either physically or to the plot itself - of having Lena die AT ALL, particularly considering her emotional and heart-felt reunion with her husband, Ted. Oh well, it just struck me as odd as all. If you have that kind of power, why bother with keeping the girl essentially a zombie at all?

I would suggest therefore (1) to really go through this again in terms of editing and consistency. I don't know what the author's beta review process involves, but this needs some work. And (2) if at all possible, combine this with perhaps 2 other similar length stories to make a full-fledged book. This is, again, not a bad story but it could use some company. I think any book that was pieced together as such (see for example Bridgett Nelson's "What The Fuck Was That?") would have a much better chance of succeeding in the market than just a long short story / very short novella. As it stands now, I would rate this around 3 stars.

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for this review. I have not added any dates below as I don't want to add short stories to my yearly total/reading challenge.
201 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2025
I always love a comedy horror story, and BRIDE OF THE LIVING CHAD  is a brilliant novella that I'll think about for a long time.

Tanner is a living Chad in every way possible. When he sees his favorite dirty movie star has died in a car accident, he summons her back to life. When she shows up in full zombie mode, Chad and Lena set out on a series of adventures to gain back her beauty. This little adventure turns into a heartwarming and reflective story that will fill your heart with all the emotions.

With any Damien Casey story, you have great comedic horror that is absurd and silly most of the time, which is just delightful. The characters will make you yell with laughter, and you'll end up falling for the right people and the right romance. It really shines through all of the horror elements and creates such a pleasant story to read.

However, through all of that, there's always a deeper meaning that really speaks as to who Damien is as a person. Here, we are examining how women are communicated with, how adult entertainers are seen, and the role toxic masculinity plays into all of this. As a reader, you can take it how deep you want it,  but it is the major theme in the story. It's so refreshing to read something that feels so real through the lens of a silly story.

It really has a feel of My Boyfriend's Back and Lisa Frankenstein, so if you love those, you'll love this one even more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Spooky.
19 reviews1 follower
May 8, 2025

I almost put this down a few pages in because Tanner the main character, is the worst. Total Chad energy: sexist, obnoxious, and a jerk to his roommate. But I’m really glad I stuck with it, because this took a weird, hilarious turn that actually worked.

After his favorite pornstar dies, Tanner resurrects her (because of course he does), but she comes back looking... crispy. Lena isn’t the mindless fantasy he hoped for she’s smart, sassy, slightly decomposed, and totally ready to drag him on a bizarre quest to fix his mess.

What starts out as ridiculous turns into a genuinely fun and surprisingly thoughtful story. Great dialogue, weird characters, lots of dark humor, and actual character growth. Lena rules. Tanner needed the humbling. Also: death to unsolicited dick pics.

Thank you to BookSirens for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review!

Profile Image for Lucid Quill.
Author 10 books24 followers
April 20, 2025
I've happily admitted to the act of judging a book by it's cover many times, and such is the case now. I will not apologize and I will not take it back. Because once again, I was right. This book was fantastic!

Easily my favorite read of the month, and definitely on the list of favorites for the year so far. I need the book to film adaptation ASAP, I could hear the quirky soundtrack and score the whole time I read and I've got great suggestions for the cast. I was right about the cover, I will probably be right again on that.

This story is absolutely goofy and told from the POV of an absolute Chad that you can't help but to root against, mostly, as he fumbles through the mess he most certainly came to deserve. I was absolutely tickled from page one and knew I was going to love it.

Hilarious, gruesome, and charming. I'll read it over and over, fondly!
Profile Image for Joey Powell.
Author 8 books41 followers
April 29, 2025
In true Damien Casey fashion, this book is quick, over-the-top, and utterly ridiculous.

It also has a lot of heart, which is something readers may not expect to be rewarded with after reading the first few chapters.

The prose is written from Tanner’s point of view, and he is exactly the hypermasculine, frat-bro, emotionally immature Chad that’s at the center of modern discourse surrounding male loneliness. The ARC of his journey, however, involves him understanding his own toxicity and becoming a more thoughtful bro. And this ARC comes after he’s reanimated the body of an adult film star.

If you read the premise and it sounds like it would be up your alley you’re probably right. But if you think you know what to expect, you may not be familiar with Casey’s writing, which is anything but predictable.
Profile Image for Belle.
73 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2025
This is not your average romcom novella! For anyone who is a fan of American Pie, this is what would happen if Stifler tried to resurrect his favorite porn star after she died in a horrible car crash.

We follow the adventures of Tanner as he tries to live out his fantasy with the recently expired Lena. But Lena has come back a little… oozy and her assets are popping out. Thankfully, it's nothing that a little duct tape and a latex body suit can't hide. Just as well as Tanner tries to buy himself time to complete the tasks Lena has set out for him which will supposedly return her to her former glory.

Sometimes the narration can get a little off-topic but it all works in the end.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for D.M. Guay.
Author 22 books370 followers
May 14, 2025
When I saw this cover, I knew I had to read this book. It didn't disappoint. This is the simple tale of a guy with a not so great personality who learns to become a better man via the reanimated, burned up corpse of his favorite adult movie star. I mean. What's not to love?

I am a long time fan of Damien Casey's books. They all have a certain style about them, and Bride of the Living Chad is no different. Do his books have the most complicated plots or characters? No. But are they are frank, straightforward, and have a sort of innocent and sweet quality about them, even though they're full of monsters? Yes. It's quite refreshing and part of the reason I like them so much!
120 reviews3 followers
March 3, 2025
This is a hilarious rom com, that you must read. It's a quick read with just enough wild characters, scenes and ideas to having you flipping through the pages. Who would of thought this short story could contain so much movement while still being fun. There is character growth, second chances and a HEA. I think. Nothing is to clear, but that the beauty of this book. I recommend this. It's a good palette cleanser.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,189 reviews18 followers
March 4, 2025
I was hooked from the cover and description and so glad I was able to read this. This was a really well done horror romance novel, I thought the concept worked well and was invested in what was going on. The characters had that feel that I was looking for. Damien Casey does a fantastic job in blending the horror and the comedy elements to this story. It was everything that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall plot and was glad I was able to read this.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Renee.
Author 2 books9 followers
March 20, 2025
*ARC Review* Our main character Tanner is an absolute tool. You know exactly the kind if you’ve ever been on dating apps as a woman. When his favorite adult film star Lena White dies, he decides to resurrect her decomposing beauty. Unfortunately for Tanner, this is not at all the fantasy he’s envisioned. Lena challenges him to get his act together. Will he remain a Forever Chad?

The cover pulled me in, but the comedic horror made me stay. Damien Casey blends it all together in this hilarious novella!
Profile Image for Dion Smith.
503 reviews3 followers
April 8, 2025
This story is like A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, except instead of Scrooge being a greedy old man, he is replaced with Tanner a colossal douchebag, and instead of being shown the error of his ways by three ghosts, Tanner has a reanimated stripper who was burnt beyond recognition, a Librarian, and sock puppets.

If you have read Damien’s work before you know what to expect, and if you haven’t its hilarious, weird and Heart warming.

I loved it
Profile Image for Sarah.
252 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2025
This book was beyond fun!! Damien caseys ability to combine horror and comedy is amazing. This book was much lighter on the horror side, but it was so much fun. The characters were well fleshed out... yes, that was meant as a zombie pun. I swear I knew guys like Tanner in high school. The story flowed great and had me laughing. Quick read. Thank you so much for the ARC!
Profile Image for Martin Bakner.
76 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2025
I mean... who among us hasn't fantasized about hooking up with an eager-to-please porn star, even if she's dead?
Take one over-sexed college student - wait, that was redundant - and add a spell to conjure a wish-granting demon/genie...then get ready for intense carnal knowledge.
At least, that was the plan.

Does he get the girl... er, ghoul? Read along, my pretties.
Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,323 reviews37 followers
May 20, 2025
Bride of the living Chad is funny af in an unhinged and outrageous way. I enjoyed this one way more than expected.
After his favorite pornstar dies Tanner resurrects her only she comes back looking all perfect now she’s crispy and he is willing to do whatever it takes to get her look back.

If you like over the top comedy and charters that surprise you in the end give this a read.
Profile Image for Lola Jansen.
390 reviews9 followers
March 4, 2025
Overall very much enjoyed this book but there were a few scenes I just didn’t understand the train of thought behind so hence the 4 stars.
The humor was spot on tho, and very relatable in todays world. The storyline was strange but cute, and I enjoyed the characters.
Good read!
Profile Image for Jodie.
142 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2025
I received this ARC from Book sirens going in had no idea about this book or what it was about I loved the cover.

This book packed a punch in a short time and was hilarious, witty and has some heart! I laughed and loved the development of the main character.

I really enjoyed the ride!!
Profile Image for Aaron.
203 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2025
It was a quick read comedy short - the plot was entertaining, but I found it fell a little short, the sentiment behind the plot (Tanner's anti-chadding) was hilarious and meaningful, I just wish there was more depth and more of a slowburn but it was a fun read with a cool plot regardless.
646 reviews
July 28, 2025
What did I just read? I....huh. Uh. Hmmmm. lol.
It's a bit like a comedy/horror skit on youtube with a shaky camera held by a 12 year old (or someone with a 12 year olds sense of humor) came to life.
And yet, I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Akwright11.
54 reviews
April 7, 2025
Very entertaining book and definitely not what I expected. The dialogue was comical and unique. Quick read that I would recommend.
1,226 reviews60 followers
April 8, 2025
Tanner Henry brings the object of his desires back from the dead. Things do not go as he planned. Tanner learns some things. Fast paced funny read.
Profile Image for Allyssa Gaines.
180 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2025
This was not the story I was expecting based on the title… it was even better! This book is freaking hilarious. You know it’s good when it makes you literally laugh out loud while reading, and this one did. I’m always down for a good horror comedy, and this did not disappoint. There was also a bit of bizarro aspects in it, just a smidge. The pov of the mc made this 1000x better. He’s such a jerk, but he’s hilarious lol. Love love love this book.
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