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Beneath the House of Usher
I made a pact with the darkness beneath the house of Usher.
When tragedy shattered my world, I bound myself to the thing below with a promise sealed in blood. A reckless vow born from grief.
I was wrong.
The man I love is dragged into the abyss I unleashed, consumed by a darkness that should have never been touched. And if I want to protect him, there’s only one choice: I have to go deeper.
Deeper into the house.
Deeper into the shadows.
Back to the entity that owns me.
Because the demon isn’t finished.
It feeds on me, twisting grief into obsession, love into something ugly. Its voice lives in my head, blurring the line between what I feel ... and what it wants.
And the house?
It’s no longer simply watching.
It’s claiming.
As reality fractures and the darkness tightens its grip, I’m forced to face the truth: I didn’t just open the door to evil.
I became part of it.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Beneath the House of Usher is a dark, Gothic female rage standalone with a heavy TW list and two alternate endings. It's Hellraiser meets Wishmaster in a retelling of Edgar Allan Poe's Fall of the House of Usher.
---------------------------------------------------------------
TW List available on the author's website.
When tragedy shattered my world, I bound myself to the thing below with a promise sealed in blood. A reckless vow born from grief.
I was wrong.
The man I love is dragged into the abyss I unleashed, consumed by a darkness that should have never been touched. And if I want to protect him, there’s only one choice: I have to go deeper.
Deeper into the house.
Deeper into the shadows.
Back to the entity that owns me.
Because the demon isn’t finished.
It feeds on me, twisting grief into obsession, love into something ugly. Its voice lives in my head, blurring the line between what I feel ... and what it wants.
And the house?
It’s no longer simply watching.
It’s claiming.
As reality fractures and the darkness tightens its grip, I’m forced to face the truth: I didn’t just open the door to evil.
I became part of it.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Beneath the House of Usher is a dark, Gothic female rage standalone with a heavy TW list and two alternate endings. It's Hellraiser meets Wishmaster in a retelling of Edgar Allan Poe's Fall of the House of Usher.
---------------------------------------------------------------
TW List available on the author's website.
436 pages, ebook
Published March 17, 2026
About the author
Airicka Phoenix
62 books1,873 followersAiricka Phoenix is a multi genre author of dark contemporary & dangerous paranormal romance starring sassy female leads and sexy alpha heroes.
For more on Airicka visit: www.airickaphoenix.com
For more on Airicka visit: www.airickaphoenix.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
March 18, 2026
Dark and gothic suck you in romance. This book has everything you could want and more. Taboo romance with her godfather and a monster at the same time. Wait she started off with her godfathers twin sons. The book is borderline pitch black. Will suck you in and will be unable to put it down. There is an intense dive into grief through the book. The spice is very spicey. Has a great HEA
March 13, 2026
4 stars. ARC Review: Mixing smut with yearning like it's her superpower, Airicka has done it again! I loved this book for the angst, grief, forbidden love, and of course monster smut. Though rated slightly lower than "Let the Devil In", I liked the MMCs more in this and ugly cried at the ending which did not happen for Devil.
I NEEDED THIS TO BE RH! Ugh like give me Eliah and Ames bc the ending had me sobbing like wtf! Like why can't we bring them back? I'm crying over characters that we never even "met" dead in the beginning ugh.
The forbidden tension and the flashbacks in the beginning was GOLD! Marcus was so hot and the tension and dirty talk was everything! We love a dad + twins falling for the same woman.
Veyn definitely made the second half of the book with his possessiveness and yearning! He's just a monster baby girl ngl haha loved his sass and how down bad he was.
However, I did find parts of the smut boring, repetitive, and vanilla. That alongside with the lengthy descriptions for this gothic book was the reasoning for the lower rating as I was partially bored and a bit lost on where the plot was heading. But there were a few wowzers crazy smut scenes in Airicka style that was great.
The setting and the marketing made it feel like it should be MFMMM but it's not, it's only whychoose and it threw me off. I also don't remember seeing an MM scene, only MMF?
Overall, I highly recommend it for the angst and yearning and smut! Esp if you like a bit more horror/ thriller vibes with a gothic mansion setting!
I NEEDED THIS TO BE RH! Ugh like give me Eliah and Ames bc the ending had me sobbing like wtf! Like why can't we bring them back? I'm crying over characters that we never even "met" dead in the beginning ugh.
The forbidden tension and the flashbacks in the beginning was GOLD! Marcus was so hot and the tension and dirty talk was everything! We love a dad + twins falling for the same woman.
Veyn definitely made the second half of the book with his possessiveness and yearning! He's just a monster baby girl ngl haha loved his sass and how down bad he was.
However, I did find parts of the smut boring, repetitive, and vanilla. That alongside with the lengthy descriptions for this gothic book was the reasoning for the lower rating as I was partially bored and a bit lost on where the plot was heading. But there were a few wowzers crazy smut scenes in Airicka style that was great.
The setting and the marketing made it feel like it should be MFMMM but it's not, it's only whychoose and it threw me off. I also don't remember seeing an MM scene, only MMF?
Overall, I highly recommend it for the angst and yearning and smut! Esp if you like a bit more horror/ thriller vibes with a gothic mansion setting!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2026
A story based off of collections of Edgar Allen Poes poems and it did not miss. It held yearning, love, spice and emotional turmoil that left your heart breaking.
Lenny loses the loves of her life and while Marcus is there he doesnt quite fill the void she feels. A void of love lost and revenge. It isnt until she meets Veyn that revenge is at arms reach.
This story doesn't leave out any gore. It throws spice at you like you wouldnt believe and the story is a mystery all in itself, leaving you constantly wondering what the three of them are going to end up being or doing next.
Lenny loses the loves of her life and while Marcus is there he doesnt quite fill the void she feels. A void of love lost and revenge. It isnt until she meets Veyn that revenge is at arms reach.
This story doesn't leave out any gore. It throws spice at you like you wouldnt believe and the story is a mystery all in itself, leaving you constantly wondering what the three of them are going to end up being or doing next.
May 5, 2026
Absolutely loved!
5🌟 4🌶
Was pleasantly surprised when I found this on BookSprout and found out it was part of an anthology based in the world of Edgar Allen Poe's work. Knew this was going to be dark and unhinged, but didn't know that I wouldn't be able to put it down! Spice is definitely all throughout this book and it is intense but it definitely helped with the story. Poor Eliah and Ames, and Lenora. Written extremely well and pacing was fantastic. That 2nd Epilogue will take you out!
5🌟 4🌶
Was pleasantly surprised when I found this on BookSprout and found out it was part of an anthology based in the world of Edgar Allen Poe's work. Knew this was going to be dark and unhinged, but didn't know that I wouldn't be able to put it down! Spice is definitely all throughout this book and it is intense but it definitely helped with the story. Poor Eliah and Ames, and Lenora. Written extremely well and pacing was fantastic. That 2nd Epilogue will take you out!
May 8, 2026
Grief opened the door, but vengeance invited the monster in.
The Elevator Pitch: After the men she loves are stolen from her, a grieving woman turns to the darkness beneath her ancestral house and makes a bargain with something ancient. As revenge pulls her deeper into obsession, the man sworn to protect her and the demon determined to claim her become tangled in the same dangerous devotion. Love, grief, and hunger blur until survival means facing what she has awakened inside herself.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
The Elevator Pitch: After the men she loves are stolen from her, a grieving woman turns to the darkness beneath her ancestral house and makes a bargain with something ancient. As revenge pulls her deeper into obsession, the man sworn to protect her and the demon determined to claim her become tangled in the same dangerous devotion. Love, grief, and hunger blur until survival means facing what she has awakened inside herself.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
March 23, 2026
Lenora is bound to the Usher family by a promise forged in secrets and blood.
The mansion, grand, decaying, and suffocating in its silence, stands at the heart of a darkness Lenora cannot escape. Inside, she is caught between two brothers: one driven by power, the other seeks her soul. Both sinister. Both seductive. Both intent on unraveling her.
She thought she could survive in the house of the dead where beauty and rot entwine, but she was wrong. The walls listen. The mirrors lie. And somewhere below, something ancient and evil stirs.
Their obsession thrums through her veins, taunting her with her own morality. Their love is laced with cruelty, their madness with desire. Lenora is no longer a guest — she is a possession. A plaything. Helpless to resist.
Who is she if not the fragile thing caught between them? When the house collapses, will she escape its ruin? Or will she, too, be devoured?
In the House of Usher, there is no escape.
Only madness. Only death.
Fans of Karina Halle and Keri Lake will devour this tale of obsession, betrayal, and beautifully broken people.
Grab Beneath the House of Usher today … and lose yourself to the Usher brothers.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Paranormal, Horror, Magic, Dark Romance, Age Gap, Tortured FMC, Virgin FMC, Silver Fox, Late 20s FMC, MMC in his 40s/50s, late 20s MMC, Demons, Forbidden Love, Vengeance, Rich MMC, Non-Human MMC, 100+ years Old MMC, Possessive MMC, Creative Anatomy, Mafia, Pregnancy, Suspense, Fantasy, Parents’s Best-Friend, Cruel/Bully MMC, Take-Charge FMC, Touch Him/Her and Unalive, Monsters, Why Choose, Forbidden Love, Polyamory, Gothic Atmosphere, Dark, Messy, Paranormal Romance, MMF/MFM Romance, Revenge, Spicy Horror Romance, Demon MMC, HEA, Cliffhanger, Gothic Horror.
Beneath the House of Usher is the 7th book in the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series by Aricka Phoenix. Once Upon a Midnight Dreary is a multi-author interconnected shared world. Beneath the House of Usher was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher”.
I have been really enjoying this series. As a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, getting full length stories based off of his poems has been absolutely stunning. And Beneath the House of Usher the 7th installment didn’t disappoint. Airicka Phoenix completely understood the assignment she’d been handed.
Airicka drops us right into grief and despair with Lenora whose been shattered by the losses of her two loves: Elias and Ames who are Marcus’s twin sons. And let me tell you, the grief that Lenora feels hits you like a gut punch from that very first chapter.
Very quickly I realized that I couldn’t get comfortable in the sorrow…the sorrow only gives way to the darkness that only gets deeper and darker.
We find that once inside the Usher mansion, Lenora has become entangled between Marcus and Veyn, the demon who possesses Marcus. We find that the atmosphere surrounding Lenora and the entire Usher mansion is haunting and is completely soaked in secrets and grief. And the twists and turns that Airicka throws at us are brutal and so very villainous.
Never fear though… I promise you that the angst isn’t the only thing that’s burning in this book. The spice, good Lord in Heaven have Mercy. The spice is an inferno. We find the obsession and possessiveness… we see how dangerous and intoxicating it is. And when the revenge starts being served up? Lord, does it ever get savage, macabre, and so very dreadfully gratifying. And I can’t tell you how much I loved watching Lenora envelope that rage that had been bubbling up in her and finally spiral into the madness the house seemed to encourage and it was not only chilling but it was also so brilliant.
And Airicka’s idea of giving us not one ending but giving us two alternate endings!!! That was such an amazing surprise. Now, I personally have a favorite ending. But, that’s my personal choice, I’m going to let you read this book and decide for yourself which ending is your favorite.
I have to say that I highly recommend this entire series and I highly recommend Beneath the House of Usher. So far out of the 7 books I think that this is my favorite book of the series so far.
The mansion, grand, decaying, and suffocating in its silence, stands at the heart of a darkness Lenora cannot escape. Inside, she is caught between two brothers: one driven by power, the other seeks her soul. Both sinister. Both seductive. Both intent on unraveling her.
She thought she could survive in the house of the dead where beauty and rot entwine, but she was wrong. The walls listen. The mirrors lie. And somewhere below, something ancient and evil stirs.
Their obsession thrums through her veins, taunting her with her own morality. Their love is laced with cruelty, their madness with desire. Lenora is no longer a guest — she is a possession. A plaything. Helpless to resist.
Who is she if not the fragile thing caught between them? When the house collapses, will she escape its ruin? Or will she, too, be devoured?
In the House of Usher, there is no escape.
Only madness. Only death.
Fans of Karina Halle and Keri Lake will devour this tale of obsession, betrayal, and beautifully broken people.
Grab Beneath the House of Usher today … and lose yourself to the Usher brothers.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Paranormal, Horror, Magic, Dark Romance, Age Gap, Tortured FMC, Virgin FMC, Silver Fox, Late 20s FMC, MMC in his 40s/50s, late 20s MMC, Demons, Forbidden Love, Vengeance, Rich MMC, Non-Human MMC, 100+ years Old MMC, Possessive MMC, Creative Anatomy, Mafia, Pregnancy, Suspense, Fantasy, Parents’s Best-Friend, Cruel/Bully MMC, Take-Charge FMC, Touch Him/Her and Unalive, Monsters, Why Choose, Forbidden Love, Polyamory, Gothic Atmosphere, Dark, Messy, Paranormal Romance, MMF/MFM Romance, Revenge, Spicy Horror Romance, Demon MMC, HEA, Cliffhanger, Gothic Horror.
Beneath the House of Usher is the 7th book in the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary Series by Aricka Phoenix. Once Upon a Midnight Dreary is a multi-author interconnected shared world. Beneath the House of Usher was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher”.
I have been really enjoying this series. As a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, getting full length stories based off of his poems has been absolutely stunning. And Beneath the House of Usher the 7th installment didn’t disappoint. Airicka Phoenix completely understood the assignment she’d been handed.
Airicka drops us right into grief and despair with Lenora whose been shattered by the losses of her two loves: Elias and Ames who are Marcus’s twin sons. And let me tell you, the grief that Lenora feels hits you like a gut punch from that very first chapter.
Very quickly I realized that I couldn’t get comfortable in the sorrow…the sorrow only gives way to the darkness that only gets deeper and darker.
We find that once inside the Usher mansion, Lenora has become entangled between Marcus and Veyn, the demon who possesses Marcus. We find that the atmosphere surrounding Lenora and the entire Usher mansion is haunting and is completely soaked in secrets and grief. And the twists and turns that Airicka throws at us are brutal and so very villainous.
Never fear though… I promise you that the angst isn’t the only thing that’s burning in this book. The spice, good Lord in Heaven have Mercy. The spice is an inferno. We find the obsession and possessiveness… we see how dangerous and intoxicating it is. And when the revenge starts being served up? Lord, does it ever get savage, macabre, and so very dreadfully gratifying. And I can’t tell you how much I loved watching Lenora envelope that rage that had been bubbling up in her and finally spiral into the madness the house seemed to encourage and it was not only chilling but it was also so brilliant.
And Airicka’s idea of giving us not one ending but giving us two alternate endings!!! That was such an amazing surprise. Now, I personally have a favorite ending. But, that’s my personal choice, I’m going to let you read this book and decide for yourself which ending is your favorite.
I have to say that I highly recommend this entire series and I highly recommend Beneath the House of Usher. So far out of the 7 books I think that this is my favorite book of the series so far.
March 18, 2026
This book was absolutely wild. Just when you thought the story had reached its peak of depravity, the narrative whispered, “Hold my beer,” and upended my world.
The story starts with a “perfect” image of Eliah and Ames, the twins, and Lorena (FMC) together, happy. A perfect life until tragedy strikes. Seeing as this is a dark romance, it's no surprise that the rival Duval family deletes the twins. Unfortunately, for the Duval's, they have started a domino effect that topples everything into "unhinged" territory.
Lenora isn't just a woman scorned—she is the match, ready to burn anyone in her path. Her bloodlust is a mix of horror and forbidden desire, it’s as delicious as it is disturbing. Marcus, the boy's dad (her Uncle, but not by blood) stays around to watch over Lorena. With a forbidden attraction to each other they fall into each other's arms, wanting to forget and just feel. If you think "Uncle" x Niece is taboo? Things are about to get a bit awkward.
The resident demon, Veyn, is bound to the house by an ancient blood pact. Lorena’s grief is so intense it wakes the demon, and he’s ready to cause chaos and destruction. Intrigued by Lenora who is not an Usher by blood can hear him (only Usher’s can). She follows his shadows, guided to a space under the house. A space that's been forgotten for too long. She discovers Veyn (in Marcus’s body). Veyn feeds off of Lorena’s violent thirst for blood and strikes a deal with her: Lorena’s body, In return for the total decimation of the Duval family.
Completely unhinged, depraved, taboo, and twisted are just a few ways to describe this book's personality. The throuple dynamic between Marcus, Veyn, and Lenora is a literal trainwreck of depravity, you won’t be able to look away. I kept vocalizing my thoughts:
"OMG!"
"No, she isn’t actually going there...?"
"Yup. She went there. She definitely went there."
If you’re a fan of monster romance, put this on your shelf immediately. The spicy scenes are so depraved, graphic, and completely shameless. They will have you questioning, “What is wrong with me?” while you happily keep reading.
Oh, but wait, there's an alternate ending? and it's just too cruel. Excuse me Mrs. Phoenix, why did you have to do us dirty like that?
This isn't just a book; it’s an experience in beautiful, blood-soaked devastation.
The story starts with a “perfect” image of Eliah and Ames, the twins, and Lorena (FMC) together, happy. A perfect life until tragedy strikes. Seeing as this is a dark romance, it's no surprise that the rival Duval family deletes the twins. Unfortunately, for the Duval's, they have started a domino effect that topples everything into "unhinged" territory.
Lenora isn't just a woman scorned—she is the match, ready to burn anyone in her path. Her bloodlust is a mix of horror and forbidden desire, it’s as delicious as it is disturbing. Marcus, the boy's dad (her Uncle, but not by blood) stays around to watch over Lorena. With a forbidden attraction to each other they fall into each other's arms, wanting to forget and just feel. If you think "Uncle" x Niece is taboo? Things are about to get a bit awkward.
The resident demon, Veyn, is bound to the house by an ancient blood pact. Lorena’s grief is so intense it wakes the demon, and he’s ready to cause chaos and destruction. Intrigued by Lenora who is not an Usher by blood can hear him (only Usher’s can). She follows his shadows, guided to a space under the house. A space that's been forgotten for too long. She discovers Veyn (in Marcus’s body). Veyn feeds off of Lorena’s violent thirst for blood and strikes a deal with her: Lorena’s body, In return for the total decimation of the Duval family.
Completely unhinged, depraved, taboo, and twisted are just a few ways to describe this book's personality. The throuple dynamic between Marcus, Veyn, and Lenora is a literal trainwreck of depravity, you won’t be able to look away. I kept vocalizing my thoughts:
"OMG!"
"No, she isn’t actually going there...?"
"Yup. She went there. She definitely went there."
If you’re a fan of monster romance, put this on your shelf immediately. The spicy scenes are so depraved, graphic, and completely shameless. They will have you questioning, “What is wrong with me?” while you happily keep reading.
Oh, but wait, there's an alternate ending? and it's just too cruel. Excuse me Mrs. Phoenix, why did you have to do us dirty like that?
This isn't just a book; it’s an experience in beautiful, blood-soaked devastation.
March 22, 2026
ARC review:
For those craving the dark, unnatural and taboo side of the Romance genre, look no further than this retelling of The House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe. It combines the horrific sights of demons and their dealings; with revenge as hot as hell and a relationship between a niece and her uncle(!)--while remaining a romance through an through. Not forgetting the spice so bloody hot (and frequent) that you'll question the boundaries of the human body (refering specifically to chapter 30…. One must assume that that is physically possible)
It has be said that while I understand that this book is marketed as Gothic Romance, it is a romance set against a more Gothic backdrop instead of the romance having the drama and consequences of a Gothic Romance in my personal opinion. There were a few way in which this could have been achieved within the premise; these paths were simply not taken. By this I mean the drama could've been turned up to eleven and I preferit turned up to eleven---which in some ways it did do…. I'm off two minds about this book in a lot of ways.
It is highly recommended that one reads the trigger warnings before engaging with this book. SA of most main characters will occur in some way or other; gore and body horror appear front and center in an awful lot of scenes and the revenge plot line is the driving force behind it all and it is told in such a visceral way I started to question my sanity at some point--specificallybecause a lot of the scens happen in tendem with the spice scenes one has to be prepared for being the classic: "I'm horny and I'm scared".
Lastly, this tale relies heavily on your enjoyment of a breeding kink or trope. This is not my favourite which made me prefer the second epilogue more--although it did throw me for quite the loop on whether it would've suited the tale told before it. in some ways it is my prefered outcome, in others I would have despised the author for ending it in such a way.
All and all, I had a great read and Im very much looking forward to the rest of the series to see what other authors are doing with the source material.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For those craving the dark, unnatural and taboo side of the Romance genre, look no further than this retelling of The House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe. It combines the horrific sights of demons and their dealings; with revenge as hot as hell and a relationship between a niece and her uncle(!)--while remaining a romance through an through. Not forgetting the spice so bloody hot (and frequent) that you'll question the boundaries of the human body (refering specifically to chapter 30…. One must assume that that is physically possible)
It has be said that while I understand that this book is marketed as Gothic Romance, it is a romance set against a more Gothic backdrop instead of the romance having the drama and consequences of a Gothic Romance in my personal opinion. There were a few way in which this could have been achieved within the premise; these paths were simply not taken. By this I mean the drama could've been turned up to eleven and I preferit turned up to eleven---which in some ways it did do…. I'm off two minds about this book in a lot of ways.
It is highly recommended that one reads the trigger warnings before engaging with this book. SA of most main characters will occur in some way or other; gore and body horror appear front and center in an awful lot of scenes and the revenge plot line is the driving force behind it all and it is told in such a visceral way I started to question my sanity at some point--specificallybecause a lot of the scens happen in tendem with the spice scenes one has to be prepared for being the classic: "I'm horny and I'm scared".
Lastly, this tale relies heavily on your enjoyment of a breeding kink or trope. This is not my favourite which made me prefer the second epilogue more--although it did throw me for quite the loop on whether it would've suited the tale told before it. in some ways it is my prefered outcome, in others I would have despised the author for ending it in such a way.
All and all, I had a great read and Im very much looking forward to the rest of the series to see what other authors are doing with the source material.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, Twisted, & I LOVED It!
Besties... "Beneath the House of Usher" is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary series inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Raven", and WOW... Airicka Phoenix absolutely understood the assignment. This story drops you straight into grief and despair with Lenora shattered by the losses of her loves: Elias and Ames ~ Marcus’s twin sons ~ and that grief hits you like a punch to the chest from the very first chapter.
But don’t get comfortable in the sorrow… because the darkness only deepens.
Inside the dreary Usher mansion, Lenora becomes entangled between Marcus and the demon, Veyn, who possesses him. The atmosphere is haunting and soaked in secrets and grief. The twists are brutal and far more sinister.
But don’t worry… the angst isn’t the only thing burning here. Because the spice?! Lawd have MERCY. 🥵 The obsession and possessiveness... it’s all dangerously intoxicating. And when revenge starts being served? Oh it gets violent, gory, and disturbingly satisfying. Watching Lenora embrace that rage and spiral into the madness of the house was chilling and brilliant.
And the two alternate endings?! WOW... what an amazing surprise. I definitely have a favorite.🤫
Airicka Phoenix’s writing is hauntingly romantic yet ominous, creating a gothic atmosphere that feels lush, layered, and beautifully unsettling.
I went in telling myself “just one more chapter” and next thing I knew the entire book was devoured and sleep was absolutely forgotten. Besties… Add. This. To. Your. TBR. Seriously.🖤
My Ratings: ⭐ 5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Besties... "Beneath the House of Usher" is part of the Once Upon a Midnight Dreary series inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Raven", and WOW... Airicka Phoenix absolutely understood the assignment. This story drops you straight into grief and despair with Lenora shattered by the losses of her loves: Elias and Ames ~ Marcus’s twin sons ~ and that grief hits you like a punch to the chest from the very first chapter.
But don’t get comfortable in the sorrow… because the darkness only deepens.
Inside the dreary Usher mansion, Lenora becomes entangled between Marcus and the demon, Veyn, who possesses him. The atmosphere is haunting and soaked in secrets and grief. The twists are brutal and far more sinister.
But don’t worry… the angst isn’t the only thing burning here. Because the spice?! Lawd have MERCY. 🥵 The obsession and possessiveness... it’s all dangerously intoxicating. And when revenge starts being served? Oh it gets violent, gory, and disturbingly satisfying. Watching Lenora embrace that rage and spiral into the madness of the house was chilling and brilliant.
And the two alternate endings?! WOW... what an amazing surprise. I definitely have a favorite.🤫
Airicka Phoenix’s writing is hauntingly romantic yet ominous, creating a gothic atmosphere that feels lush, layered, and beautifully unsettling.
I went in telling myself “just one more chapter” and next thing I knew the entire book was devoured and sleep was absolutely forgotten. Besties… Add. This. To. Your. TBR. Seriously.🖤
My Ratings: ⭐ 5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 5/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
April 2, 2026
🖤🥀Dark, decadent, and deliciously unsettling, Beneath the House of Usher is a gothic romance that leans fully into obsession, power, and moral decay and doesn’t apologize for a second of it.
From the moment the protagonist steps into the Usher mansion, the atmosphere is suffocating in the best way. The setting feels alive: crumbling walls, whispering corridors, and a constant sense that something is watching. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just house secrets it feeds on them. The author excels at blending beauty with rot, creating a haunting backdrop that lingers long after you’ve finished reading.🥀🖤
🥀The romance is where the “spice” really simmers not just in chemistry, but in tension. It’s dark, manipulative, and emotionally charged, with a constant push and pull that keeps you hooked. This isn’t a soft love story; it’s one built on possession, power, and unraveling sanity. The emotional stakes feel high because nothing here is safe not love, not trust, not even identity.
What truly elevates the story is how it blends psychological horror with romance. The creeping madness, the unreliable reality, and the sense of inevitable doom all weave together seamlessly. You’re not just reading about the character’s descent you feel it.
If you’re a fan of gothic romance with a heavy dose of darkness, obsessive anti-heroes, and a heroine caught in a dangerously seductive web, Beneath the House of Usher is absolutely worth the read.🥀
🖤Final Verdict:🖤
Haunting, seductive, and uncomfortably addictive this is a story that pulls you under and doesn’t let go.
From the moment the protagonist steps into the Usher mansion, the atmosphere is suffocating in the best way. The setting feels alive: crumbling walls, whispering corridors, and a constant sense that something is watching. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just house secrets it feeds on them. The author excels at blending beauty with rot, creating a haunting backdrop that lingers long after you’ve finished reading.🥀🖤
🥀The romance is where the “spice” really simmers not just in chemistry, but in tension. It’s dark, manipulative, and emotionally charged, with a constant push and pull that keeps you hooked. This isn’t a soft love story; it’s one built on possession, power, and unraveling sanity. The emotional stakes feel high because nothing here is safe not love, not trust, not even identity.
What truly elevates the story is how it blends psychological horror with romance. The creeping madness, the unreliable reality, and the sense of inevitable doom all weave together seamlessly. You’re not just reading about the character’s descent you feel it.
If you’re a fan of gothic romance with a heavy dose of darkness, obsessive anti-heroes, and a heroine caught in a dangerously seductive web, Beneath the House of Usher is absolutely worth the read.🥀
🖤Final Verdict:🖤
Haunting, seductive, and uncomfortably addictive this is a story that pulls you under and doesn’t let go.
March 23, 2026
This book is the type of book that keeps you unsettled throughout its entirety. It was a tale full of darkness, twists and tension that fully drew me in and had me needing to see the whole picture and get all the answers. It was overall a bittersweet story of a women who lost near everything, and only her plans of revenge could keep her going.
You could tell the Edgar Allen Poe inspiration was fully embraced (and this book is part of a collection of Poe retellings “Once Upon a Midnight Dreary”). It was impeccably well-written and I loved the gothic atmosphere. I was very happy to reach the HEA at the end, but the curiosity was strong on reading the surprising alternate ending.
This story follows the FMC Lenora as she attempts to navigate through her grief and get vengeance for those she has lost. Her story was heartbreaking and her grief was palpable. I admired how determined she was, fuelled by her outrage of what had been done to her family. She found comfort in her protective Uncle Marcus and while he was determined to enact her revenge, his conscience and desire to protect his niece held him from rushing into it without careful planning. But what neither had expected was that her grief had called to the ancient demon Veyn residing below, trapped and forgotten in the depths of Usher House.
The tropes, kinks and spice in this book though, phenomenal. I think this may just be the first book I gave a 5/5 on the spice. It was taboo, it was kinky, it was downright unhinged at times.
You could tell the Edgar Allen Poe inspiration was fully embraced (and this book is part of a collection of Poe retellings “Once Upon a Midnight Dreary”). It was impeccably well-written and I loved the gothic atmosphere. I was very happy to reach the HEA at the end, but the curiosity was strong on reading the surprising alternate ending.
This story follows the FMC Lenora as she attempts to navigate through her grief and get vengeance for those she has lost. Her story was heartbreaking and her grief was palpable. I admired how determined she was, fuelled by her outrage of what had been done to her family. She found comfort in her protective Uncle Marcus and while he was determined to enact her revenge, his conscience and desire to protect his niece held him from rushing into it without careful planning. But what neither had expected was that her grief had called to the ancient demon Veyn residing below, trapped and forgotten in the depths of Usher House.
The tropes, kinks and spice in this book though, phenomenal. I think this may just be the first book I gave a 5/5 on the spice. It was taboo, it was kinky, it was downright unhinged at times.
May 7, 2026
Okay, first of all, this was my first ever gothic erotica read, and I absolutely did not see that coming! I was so shocked in the beginning when I found out that the FMC was involved with two MCs. But the shock only increased when I got to know about the incest, I was like, “phew, damn, that’s unexpected.” And then the erotic part- OMG. It wasn’t even smut, it was straight up erotica.
The storyline was good, involving a revenge plot, gore scenes, demons, and everything mixed together in a very twisted way. Lenora is portrayed as an unhinged virgin woman seeking revenge for the death of her lovers. Her character development, from a fragile woman to a vengeful seductress, was really interesting to see. As for Marcus, the father of her lovers and also her uncle, he initially seemed like a cool, brooding type of guy. But he turned out to be just as unhinged as Lenora. By the end of the story, I actually found him somewhat funny because he kept showing up in places he wasn’t supposed to be, almost like a third wheel between Lenora and the demon.
And the demon? A complete hot mess- but also kind of a pookie.
Overall, the story is very dark, erotic, and gothic. The plot, writing style, and character chemistry were strong. It’s a dream book for goth lovers, but definitely not for the faint of heart.
Overall rating: 4/5.
The storyline was good, involving a revenge plot, gore scenes, demons, and everything mixed together in a very twisted way. Lenora is portrayed as an unhinged virgin woman seeking revenge for the death of her lovers. Her character development, from a fragile woman to a vengeful seductress, was really interesting to see. As for Marcus, the father of her lovers and also her uncle, he initially seemed like a cool, brooding type of guy. But he turned out to be just as unhinged as Lenora. By the end of the story, I actually found him somewhat funny because he kept showing up in places he wasn’t supposed to be, almost like a third wheel between Lenora and the demon.
And the demon? A complete hot mess- but also kind of a pookie.
Overall, the story is very dark, erotic, and gothic. The plot, writing style, and character chemistry were strong. It’s a dream book for goth lovers, but definitely not for the faint of heart.
Overall rating: 4/5.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a arc
Title -> Beneath the house of usher
Author -> Airicka phoenix
Rating⭐️ -> 4/5
Genre 🎃 -> suspense/ romance/ Dark Romance
spice 🌶 -> 5/5
Book Type 📒 -> Book is part of a series
Main Trigger Warnings ⚠️ -> There is a lot some are abuse, evil, blood, child abuse, sex, cutting, deals with the devil, erotica, rage, gore, gun, violence, mafia, suicide, torture
Pages -> 436 pages
Oh my gosh this book is so good it has a lot going on. This girl has these 2 brothers one is one is very bad and one is seductive. The man you love is swallowed up into abyss should I surrender?? Some love last forever mine is paid in blood. Now I am bound to this house sealed by blood. The mansion is decaying and there is something inside evil. I thought I could survive in the house of the dead. This house is so evil and I am just a possession to it. The house collapses does she get out or does she get killed
Wow amazing how it all folds out and she is strong. There is so much here going on but she manages it all. She does it for love. I loved this and want to see more of what happens in another series. It is greatly written since it had a lot of pages. Kept you interested so you wanted to read more
Title -> Beneath the house of usher
Author -> Airicka phoenix
Rating⭐️ -> 4/5
Genre 🎃 -> suspense/ romance/ Dark Romance
spice 🌶 -> 5/5
Book Type 📒 -> Book is part of a series
Main Trigger Warnings ⚠️ -> There is a lot some are abuse, evil, blood, child abuse, sex, cutting, deals with the devil, erotica, rage, gore, gun, violence, mafia, suicide, torture
Pages -> 436 pages
Oh my gosh this book is so good it has a lot going on. This girl has these 2 brothers one is one is very bad and one is seductive. The man you love is swallowed up into abyss should I surrender?? Some love last forever mine is paid in blood. Now I am bound to this house sealed by blood. The mansion is decaying and there is something inside evil. I thought I could survive in the house of the dead. This house is so evil and I am just a possession to it. The house collapses does she get out or does she get killed
Wow amazing how it all folds out and she is strong. There is so much here going on but she manages it all. She does it for love. I loved this and want to see more of what happens in another series. It is greatly written since it had a lot of pages. Kept you interested so you wanted to read more
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️ 5🌶
I am a fan of a good retelling, to take elements of a widely known work of art and then flip it and make it your own takes talent. When done right, it has a life of its own. When done poorly, it presents as a cheap knockoff.
This tale is a part of a collective look at the works of Edgar Allen Poe, one of America's greatest Gothic authors. So already, you know that bar is high.
A demonic look at the house of usher is what we're given, and I absolutely loved it. This a dark taboo retelling, so please heed the trigger warnings.
The main FMC Lenora is written in such a way that you are drawn into the story. The mafia type rivalry between the two families will keep you intrigued. Although what I really enjoyed was the monster aspect and the horror built into the demise of the characters. It's very visceral and to some that may be a bit much, so if you're squeamish you may want to pass on it.
The dark atmosphere is haunting and enchanting. The stakes are high and the 2 endings give you a different viewpoint if you want the more conventional or a terribly twisted one😉.
Tropes and triggers: age gap, touch him/her and die, monsters/demons, breeding, why choose, forbidden love, polyamory, gore, bdsm
I received an advanced copy for an honest review.
I am a fan of a good retelling, to take elements of a widely known work of art and then flip it and make it your own takes talent. When done right, it has a life of its own. When done poorly, it presents as a cheap knockoff.
This tale is a part of a collective look at the works of Edgar Allen Poe, one of America's greatest Gothic authors. So already, you know that bar is high.
A demonic look at the house of usher is what we're given, and I absolutely loved it. This a dark taboo retelling, so please heed the trigger warnings.
The main FMC Lenora is written in such a way that you are drawn into the story. The mafia type rivalry between the two families will keep you intrigued. Although what I really enjoyed was the monster aspect and the horror built into the demise of the characters. It's very visceral and to some that may be a bit much, so if you're squeamish you may want to pass on it.
The dark atmosphere is haunting and enchanting. The stakes are high and the 2 endings give you a different viewpoint if you want the more conventional or a terribly twisted one😉.
Tropes and triggers: age gap, touch him/her and die, monsters/demons, breeding, why choose, forbidden love, polyamory, gore, bdsm
I received an advanced copy for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're looking for a beautifully heartbreaking, horrifying, imaginative, and well-written dark romance retelling of a renowned Edgar Allan Poe short story--one with demonic beings, mafia violence, and taboo love--you've found it in Beneath the House of Usher. Airicka uses creative storytelling and very dark themes to tell a bittersweet story of a young woman who loses almost everything, including beloved family members, her attentive twin lovers, her innocence, and maybe even her mind, before wielding her all-consuming feminine rage to enact revenge on those who have harmed her and the Usher family.
Lenora Usher is a force of a character, and her story is so bittersweet. Her unbearable grief at the beginning of the book is palpable and drives her to make a fateful deal with the Devil, so to speak. Even in his own grief, her protective uncle Marcus tries to comfort her, but Lenora needs revenge more than his love, so she enlists Veyn to destroy her family's mortal enemies. What follows is a terrifying tale of torture and murder while Lenora comes to terms with her new reality, being torn between her devoted human and demonic lovers, who both want to possess her--body, heart, and soul. In the end, Lenora seems to find some semblance of happiness and make peace with the life she has, which is far from the life she, Ames, and Eliah once dreamed of for themselves.
I must say, while I love Lenora, Marcus, and Veyn's sweet (if unconventional) HEA, curiosity drove me to read the alternate ending, which was interesting but sad and left me with more questions than answers. I remember thinking "What the hell does that mean?" And that's one of the many things I love about Airicka's books: They make me feel. They make me think. They make me want more. What more could I want from a book?
Lenora Usher is a force of a character, and her story is so bittersweet. Her unbearable grief at the beginning of the book is palpable and drives her to make a fateful deal with the Devil, so to speak. Even in his own grief, her protective uncle Marcus tries to comfort her, but Lenora needs revenge more than his love, so she enlists Veyn to destroy her family's mortal enemies. What follows is a terrifying tale of torture and murder while Lenora comes to terms with her new reality, being torn between her devoted human and demonic lovers, who both want to possess her--body, heart, and soul. In the end, Lenora seems to find some semblance of happiness and make peace with the life she has, which is far from the life she, Ames, and Eliah once dreamed of for themselves.
I must say, while I love Lenora, Marcus, and Veyn's sweet (if unconventional) HEA, curiosity drove me to read the alternate ending, which was interesting but sad and left me with more questions than answers. I remember thinking "What the hell does that mean?" And that's one of the many things I love about Airicka's books: They make me feel. They make me think. They make me want more. What more could I want from a book?
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.25 stars...
all of the spicy peppers
Gothic atmosphere.
Dark, messy paranormal/monster romance, MMF
Revenge plot somewhere. Some graphic horror/gore type scenes.
This isn't a bad book. At all.
I am just not the target audience. I'm more of a mild-medium spicy girl. This was scorching.
I applied for one of the Once Upon the Midnight Dreary books and have received them all. This is book 7 out of 12. I did receive the advanced reader copy and clearly these opinions are my own. haha.
I will say I really enjoyed Veyn.
I loved that there were two ending options, a HEA and one that is not.
I don't know what else to say about this. It's dark... wild... horrific... but has these other moments that are just... emotional, spirited... plucky?
but also horror erotica? i didn't know that was a thing until this.
"I saw him when he thought she was in danger and couldn’t reach her. He may not understand the emotions he’s feeling, but I know a man in love when I see one."
“She will never understand what you did. Would she be grateful if she ever learned what you sacrificed for her … hope?”
“It doesn’t matter. I would do it again.”
all of the spicy peppers
Gothic atmosphere.
Dark, messy paranormal/monster romance, MMF
Revenge plot somewhere. Some graphic horror/gore type scenes.
This isn't a bad book. At all.
I am just not the target audience. I'm more of a mild-medium spicy girl. This was scorching.
I applied for one of the Once Upon the Midnight Dreary books and have received them all. This is book 7 out of 12. I did receive the advanced reader copy and clearly these opinions are my own. haha.
I will say I really enjoyed Veyn.
I loved that there were two ending options, a HEA and one that is not.
I don't know what else to say about this. It's dark... wild... horrific... but has these other moments that are just... emotional, spirited... plucky?
but also horror erotica? i didn't know that was a thing until this.
"I saw him when he thought she was in danger and couldn’t reach her. He may not understand the emotions he’s feeling, but I know a man in love when I see one."
“She will never understand what you did. Would she be grateful if she ever learned what you sacrificed for her … hope?”
“It doesn’t matter. I would do it again.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Reader Confessional – Beneath the House of Usher by Airicka Phoenix
Beneath the House of Usher is heavy with atmosphere, tension, and just the right amount of darkness to keep you feeling slightly unsettled the entire time. There’s a constant sense that something is lurking beneath the surface, and the slow, deliberate pacing lets that unease build in a way that really pulls you in.
What surprised me most was how well the book balances that gothic, haunting tone with some seriously spicy moments. The heat doesn’t feel out of place—instead it adds to the intensity, making the emotions feel sharper and the connections between the characters even stronger. And honestly, I loved that this story wasn’t afraid to lean into both the darkness and the spice.
It’s not a perfect read in every moment, but the mood, the tension, and the extra heat made it stand out. If you enjoy stories that mix eerie atmosphere with emotional weight and a good dose of spice, this one is definitely worth stepping into.
📖 I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Beneath the House of Usher is heavy with atmosphere, tension, and just the right amount of darkness to keep you feeling slightly unsettled the entire time. There’s a constant sense that something is lurking beneath the surface, and the slow, deliberate pacing lets that unease build in a way that really pulls you in.
What surprised me most was how well the book balances that gothic, haunting tone with some seriously spicy moments. The heat doesn’t feel out of place—instead it adds to the intensity, making the emotions feel sharper and the connections between the characters even stronger. And honestly, I loved that this story wasn’t afraid to lean into both the darkness and the spice.
It’s not a perfect read in every moment, but the mood, the tension, and the extra heat made it stand out. If you enjoy stories that mix eerie atmosphere with emotional weight and a good dose of spice, this one is definitely worth stepping into.
📖 I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC and this is entirely my honest review.
This is my first book I have read by the author and honestly had no idea what to expect when I got into it.
I really struggled to get into this book. Normally I read a book this size in about 2-3 days and this one took me 10. I just wasn’t feeling it. It didn’t pull me in to pick it up and every spare moment like other books have done.
I was a bit confused as to what was happening and how the characters all fit in up until about 15%.
The spice was spicy (even a bit weird and new for me).
I really did like the evolution of the characters relationship (especially the MMCs).
I had never read a gothic/horror romance before - those parts didn’t bother me at all; turns out I don’t have many triggers.
I appreciated the HEA and the last quarter of the book. The sacrifice the MMCs made for their love of Lenora was so good.
The ending wrapped the book up nicely.
I would maybe recommend this book to someone who enjoys this type of setting. I don’t think I would recommend for someone to try a new genre type.
This is my first book I have read by the author and honestly had no idea what to expect when I got into it.
I really struggled to get into this book. Normally I read a book this size in about 2-3 days and this one took me 10. I just wasn’t feeling it. It didn’t pull me in to pick it up and every spare moment like other books have done.
I was a bit confused as to what was happening and how the characters all fit in up until about 15%.
The spice was spicy (even a bit weird and new for me).
I really did like the evolution of the characters relationship (especially the MMCs).
I had never read a gothic/horror romance before - those parts didn’t bother me at all; turns out I don’t have many triggers.
I appreciated the HEA and the last quarter of the book. The sacrifice the MMCs made for their love of Lenora was so good.
The ending wrapped the book up nicely.
I would maybe recommend this book to someone who enjoys this type of setting. I don’t think I would recommend for someone to try a new genre type.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely Amazing story.... I was hooked from the 1st chapter the characters draw you in and put you in a chokehold until the very end. I loved the very Edgar Allan Poe feel of the story itself and many of his stories I had to stop and run that chapter or whatever I had just read over in my mind again to fully grasp the way it was meant to be and felt the true way it was to be felt... This story does mess with your mind alittle as it should and Airicka did an absolute amazing job at portraying the grief, the need for vengeance, wanting to give up, and the love of 3 new people for Lenora... the regret, grief, guilt and love for Marcus... and Finally the rage, caring, betrayal, acceptance of love and happiness and family for Veyn....
I truly hope we get a book 2 for this or because I absolutely need more of this story
And y'all I absolutely recommend this story but please check them triggers because it is dark and very gruesome in some areas
I truly hope we get a book 2 for this or because I absolutely need more of this story
And y'all I absolutely recommend this story but please check them triggers because it is dark and very gruesome in some areas
Review of advance copy received from Author
This would be a great book club read. The FMC seems to have nothing but sorrow and tragedy in her young life, and the author brings the sorrow like no other. The MMCs, especially one of them also has a lot of tragedy in his life, but in this book they care very much for the FMC. The book read really quick. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is beautifully written. There is potentially a major plot twist that I was not expecting and was so surprised when I read it. This book evoked some sad feelings from me and, at times, I was brought to tears. There is so much in this novel: a lot of sorrow, love, and growth. There was death, demons and life. And, so much more. It was pretty heavy at times. The main characters, especially the MMCs, had really funny banter. There is plenty of good spice, too. I love the chapter artwork. Check your TWs. I would definitely recommend this book.
April 7, 2026
Okay… what the heck did I just read?
First—if you’re thinking about picking this up, please check the trigger warnings. Seriously. And if you’re okay with that, then proceed.
This got dark really quickly—and I mean dark, with a touch of “almost nightmare.” But the author’s writing was so good. It gave me strong Crimson Peak vibes—very gothic, very haunting.
Even with the heavy content, there was actually a surprising amount of emotion. Her relationship with her boys really stood out to me—it was genuinely sweet and, at times, wholesome, which balanced the darkness in an unexpected way.
The ending and I are… sort of friends. If you know, you know.
Overall, this was an impressive book. Despite the content, it didn’t read like just dark smut—it felt like a deeper exploration of grief.
First—if you’re thinking about picking this up, please check the trigger warnings. Seriously. And if you’re okay with that, then proceed.
This got dark really quickly—and I mean dark, with a touch of “almost nightmare.” But the author’s writing was so good. It gave me strong Crimson Peak vibes—very gothic, very haunting.
Even with the heavy content, there was actually a surprising amount of emotion. Her relationship with her boys really stood out to me—it was genuinely sweet and, at times, wholesome, which balanced the darkness in an unexpected way.
The ending and I are… sort of friends. If you know, you know.
Overall, this was an impressive book. Despite the content, it didn’t read like just dark smut—it felt like a deeper exploration of grief.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to review this book as an ARC. I was extremely interested in this book based on some of the information I saw about it, so getting the opportunity to read it ahead of time was pretty neat.
This book is wild right away! It took me a minute to figure out exactly what the author was alluding to with characters but once I figured it out I knew it was going to be a fun time.
This book gave me Credence vibes but with a darker plot and an FMC and MMC that could be considered morally grey. She wastes no time getting into the “forbidden love” part of things. I have not read a book by this author before but this one definitely peaked my interest into looking into more!
Definitely worth the read
This book is wild right away! It took me a minute to figure out exactly what the author was alluding to with characters but once I figured it out I knew it was going to be a fun time.
This book gave me Credence vibes but with a darker plot and an FMC and MMC that could be considered morally grey. She wastes no time getting into the “forbidden love” part of things. I have not read a book by this author before but this one definitely peaked my interest into looking into more!
Definitely worth the read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I have to admit, when I first read the blurb for this book, I had certain expectations, but the story completely took me by surprise. It was not at all what I anticipated! Lenora’s quest for revenge after losing her boys leads her down such a wild, intense path.
Does it have smut, lots of smut? Yes, it absolutely does! However, it also features a compelling plot and a beautifully dark, Gothic setting, which made it the perfect combination for me. I also loved that it offers two different endings, allowing the experience to feel complete either way.
Reading this was a fantastic experience, especially since I hadn’t read anything by this author before; I’ll definitely be checking out her other work now.
A huge thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Does it have smut, lots of smut? Yes, it absolutely does! However, it also features a compelling plot and a beautifully dark, Gothic setting, which made it the perfect combination for me. I also loved that it offers two different endings, allowing the experience to feel complete either way.
Reading this was a fantastic experience, especially since I hadn’t read anything by this author before; I’ll definitely be checking out her other work now.
A huge thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from the Author
Inspired by "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
This modern-day retelling isn't for the faint of heart. If you like graphic gothic horror, dark romance with scorching spice, this book is for you.
Beneath the House of Usher is a visceral moody narrative where the protagonist loses her family, her twin lovers and her mind, only to rebuild herself finding refuge in the arms of a demon and forbidden uncle.
As my first time reading anything by Airicka Phoenix, I must say I'm impressed and will be adding her books to my ever growing TBR list.
This is book 7 of The Once Upon A Midnight Dreary series. A collection of 12 stand-alone novels inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe.
Inspired by "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
This modern-day retelling isn't for the faint of heart. If you like graphic gothic horror, dark romance with scorching spice, this book is for you.
Beneath the House of Usher is a visceral moody narrative where the protagonist loses her family, her twin lovers and her mind, only to rebuild herself finding refuge in the arms of a demon and forbidden uncle.
As my first time reading anything by Airicka Phoenix, I must say I'm impressed and will be adding her books to my ever growing TBR list.
This is book 7 of The Once Upon A Midnight Dreary series. A collection of 12 stand-alone novels inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Beneath the house of Usher… my oh my...
This book took me through a whirlwind for pretty much the whole time, but it was so good i couldn’t put it down! Lenora is grieving the loss of her two men, and living with her uncle Marcus. Their relationship isn’t typica, especially when the demon makes himself known. Lenora has some sort of connection with this demon, finding herself in another love triangle.
Despite the relationship aspect, this is a book about revenge and how heavy grief can be. Lenora finds herself getting so entangled with hetttng revenge that she doesn’t realize it won’t bring them back.
Thats why she took things into her own hands..
I was not expecting a cliff hanger ending but I also am glad because Airicka can’t wrap up the story yet!!
This book took me through a whirlwind for pretty much the whole time, but it was so good i couldn’t put it down! Lenora is grieving the loss of her two men, and living with her uncle Marcus. Their relationship isn’t typica, especially when the demon makes himself known. Lenora has some sort of connection with this demon, finding herself in another love triangle.
Despite the relationship aspect, this is a book about revenge and how heavy grief can be. Lenora finds herself getting so entangled with hetttng revenge that she doesn’t realize it won’t bring them back.
Thats why she took things into her own hands..
I was not expecting a cliff hanger ending but I also am glad because Airicka can’t wrap up the story yet!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
I think I need to start this review that I have never read an erotic horror before but it's by airicka so had tomgivenit a go, and to be honest I really don't think it is my genre.
Lenora has lost the men she loves, Marcus has lost his sons but Lenora is struggling without them. And in here grief she calls forth a demon to exact revenge on those responsible. I did struggle with this, and with Lenora losing time, I just found it hard to keep up with. But in saying that it had me keeping at it because had to know what happens in the end. And it was worth it, such a great ending especially the second epilogue it was perfect.
So even though it may not be a high rating, if erotic horror is your thing then you have to give this a go.
Lenora has lost the men she loves, Marcus has lost his sons but Lenora is struggling without them. And in here grief she calls forth a demon to exact revenge on those responsible. I did struggle with this, and with Lenora losing time, I just found it hard to keep up with. But in saying that it had me keeping at it because had to know what happens in the end. And it was worth it, such a great ending especially the second epilogue it was perfect.
So even though it may not be a high rating, if erotic horror is your thing then you have to give this a go.
March 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Marcus, Lenora, Vayne
If you love gothic romance with taboo throw in some mafiaesq and well this is the book for you. Lenora is in mourning but wants revenge on the family who murdered her beloved men. So she asks her godfather Uncle Marcus if he will, on one condition she gives him her body. Of course she says yes, but uncle Marcus is taking his time in making his plan. They venture into the basement of tunnels that go in forever but a room calls to her. She stumbles upon a room with a dais’ and from her grief wakes up a god/demon. Vayne makes a deal with Lenora give her body to him and he will destroy the family who caused her pain.
This book was so good. Airicka’s writing always takes me to a different place and has me intrigued with the characters.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Marcus, Lenora, Vayne
If you love gothic romance with taboo throw in some mafiaesq and well this is the book for you. Lenora is in mourning but wants revenge on the family who murdered her beloved men. So she asks her godfather Uncle Marcus if he will, on one condition she gives him her body. Of course she says yes, but uncle Marcus is taking his time in making his plan. They venture into the basement of tunnels that go in forever but a room calls to her. She stumbles upon a room with a dais’ and from her grief wakes up a god/demon. Vayne makes a deal with Lenora give her body to him and he will destroy the family who caused her pain.
This book was so good. Airicka’s writing always takes me to a different place and has me intrigued with the characters.
March 7, 2026
There’s something so addictive and gritty about Airickas books. Beneath the house of usher is dark, emotional and spicy as hell.
Lenora has lost most of her family and the two people she loved the most 🥺 All that’s left is Marcus (her step uncle) who she’s always had a crush on. The story follows them both navigating through their grief whilst encountering something dark and evil living within the house 😏
There’s so much more I could say but honestly I loved it, just read it. It’s a wild ride.
‼️ Please read the trigger warnings ‼️
There is a alternative ending that isn’t a HEA and I’m not brave enough to read it 😬
Thank you to Airicka for the ARC.
Lenora has lost most of her family and the two people she loved the most 🥺 All that’s left is Marcus (her step uncle) who she’s always had a crush on. The story follows them both navigating through their grief whilst encountering something dark and evil living within the house 😏
There’s so much more I could say but honestly I loved it, just read it. It’s a wild ride.
‼️ Please read the trigger warnings ‼️
There is a alternative ending that isn’t a HEA and I’m not brave enough to read it 😬
Thank you to Airicka for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beneath the House of Usher opens to a visceral kind of despair. You can feel Lenora’s shattered heart straight to your soul. Airicka Phoenix took me on an emotional journey that left me flayed—limits were pushed, trusts were tested, bonds formed, hearts awakened. This book sunk its talons deep enough to scar. *** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Marcus
✨Veyn
FMC:
✨Lenora
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Tropes:
👉dark paranormal romance
👉spicy horror romance
👉touch her and ☠️
👉demon mmc
Triggers: ⚠️ please see author’s website for complete, extensive list ⚠️
💥18+
💥sex, ⚔️, graphic like so. much. graphic. sex.
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MFM
✨MMF
MMC:
✨Marcus
✨Veyn
FMC:
✨Lenora
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Tropes:
👉dark paranormal romance
👉spicy horror romance
👉touch her and ☠️
👉demon mmc
Triggers: ⚠️ please see author’s website for complete, extensive list ⚠️
💥18+
💥sex, ⚔️, graphic like so. much. graphic. sex.
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MFM
✨MMF
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ 4.5/5 ⭐️
This book started and ended on a strong note. Got straight into the story and my, did it break my heart. The story captured me and I couldn’t put it down.
Many times it made me tear up, some bits were so descriptive I had to read twice as the first time I was in shock (my imagination ran wild especially the horror-y parts). The relationship between Lenora, Marcus and Veyn was eruptive, chaotic at times, but overall a beautiful love story.
The ending was brilliant, I loved it, they all deserved it.
I did read the alternative ending as I knew it would be amazing still, but oh my gosh it was devastatingly haunting. Props to her.
HEA 🫶🏼🖤
This book started and ended on a strong note. Got straight into the story and my, did it break my heart. The story captured me and I couldn’t put it down.
Many times it made me tear up, some bits were so descriptive I had to read twice as the first time I was in shock (my imagination ran wild especially the horror-y parts). The relationship between Lenora, Marcus and Veyn was eruptive, chaotic at times, but overall a beautiful love story.
The ending was brilliant, I loved it, they all deserved it.
I did read the alternative ending as I knew it would be amazing still, but oh my gosh it was devastatingly haunting. Props to her.
HEA 🫶🏼🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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