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Dance With My Demons #2
Echoes: Dance with My Demons, Book 2
Welcome to the Lilydale Foundation Center… home of deadly secrets.
After being framed for murder, I never thought I’d be back inside these walls again. And if I thought I’d be able to make a quiet return, I was dead wrong.
My secrets have been spilled but little did I know it would be the catalyst. Monsters are creeping out of the darkness, eager for blood.
Now, the biggest question remains—who are the true unhinged?
Echoes is a why choose asylum secret society dark romance. It contains adult themes, sensitive topics, and is solely intended for mature audiences over 18. It is recommended that listeners check the trigger warnings before diving in. Echoes is book 2 in the Dance with my Demons series.
After being framed for murder, I never thought I’d be back inside these walls again. And if I thought I’d be able to make a quiet return, I was dead wrong.
My secrets have been spilled but little did I know it would be the catalyst. Monsters are creeping out of the darkness, eager for blood.
Now, the biggest question remains—who are the true unhinged?
Echoes is a why choose asylum secret society dark romance. It contains adult themes, sensitive topics, and is solely intended for mature audiences over 18. It is recommended that listeners check the trigger warnings before diving in. Echoes is book 2 in the Dance with my Demons series.
Audible Audio
Published June 27, 2025
4465 people are currently reading
8609 people want to read
About the author
Steph Macca
33 books1,817 followersBestselling Dark Romance Author
Author of Unhinged 🔪
Knock Knock, Little Killer
Author of Unhinged 🔪
Knock Knock, Little Killer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,794 reviews
July 25, 2025
Rating strictly for the audiobook! I’m GIGGGGGLINGGGGGG this is so unhinged the narrators are EVERYTHING!! Again like with book 1 I genuinely don’t think I would like this if I read it but the audiobook EATS
August 4, 2025
3.5 stars ✨
"Mine.
No one is going to take that away from me.
I'll kill every last person until we're the last two left. And then we'll burn the world down together."
Slightly better than book one but only cause my expectations were more managed this time and I do like the MMCs quite a lot 😌 The character development and relationship depth was far better in this one despite the short length of the book.
Avery is someone I still haven't grown too fond of tbh. She is infuriating at times because her personality keeps changing and it just doesn't make me relate or connect to her in any way. One moment she's acting all badass and then the next she's a damsel in distress in front of her boyfriends.
Grey is growing on super fast. I already liked him in book one but he was on FIRE in this one. Like the emotional depth? 🤌 The possessiveness? 🤌 The kill for her, burn for her attitude? 🤌
Theo is someone who I feel like the author utilized in this one for filler purposes. I liked him better in book one. I mean, he was alright here too but Grey made him look pale in comparison.
Damon, the cold, cruel and broody ass is someone I absolutely adore. Sure, he's a bit unhinged but he makes it work. Like the angst with him is chef's kiss. The slow burn has me in a chokehold.
The romance and reverse harem is surprisingly unfolding quite well. There's tension between the men, complex emotions of guilt, acceptance, battle for dominance and possession and ultimately surrendering to this 'reality.' The spice is chef's kiss. Boy, I ate it up 👀🥵
The only thing that makes no sense to me is the plot. It just seems kinda meh, I'm mostly here for the dark romance and characters at this point. Basically, for funsies and this series is surprisingly delivering in that regards. It's quite fast paced as well, so that's a bonus. It ends on a cliff hanger and I need to be with my demon man Damon so diving right into the next one 😌
~•~•~
When the dedication looks like this- "What an unhinged good fucking reader you are. I knew you'd be gagging for the monsters under the bed… Begging them to drag you down to hell and rearrange your insides. Welcome home."
MA'AM I'M JUST TRYING TO READ... But okay 👀
"Mine.
No one is going to take that away from me.
I'll kill every last person until we're the last two left. And then we'll burn the world down together."
Slightly better than book one but only cause my expectations were more managed this time and I do like the MMCs quite a lot 😌 The character development and relationship depth was far better in this one despite the short length of the book.
Avery is someone I still haven't grown too fond of tbh. She is infuriating at times because her personality keeps changing and it just doesn't make me relate or connect to her in any way. One moment she's acting all badass and then the next she's a damsel in distress in front of her boyfriends.
Grey is growing on super fast. I already liked him in book one but he was on FIRE in this one. Like the emotional depth? 🤌 The possessiveness? 🤌 The kill for her, burn for her attitude? 🤌
Theo is someone who I feel like the author utilized in this one for filler purposes. I liked him better in book one. I mean, he was alright here too but Grey made him look pale in comparison.
Damon, the cold, cruel and broody ass is someone I absolutely adore. Sure, he's a bit unhinged but he makes it work. Like the angst with him is chef's kiss. The slow burn has me in a chokehold.
The romance and reverse harem is surprisingly unfolding quite well. There's tension between the men, complex emotions of guilt, acceptance, battle for dominance and possession and ultimately surrendering to this 'reality.' The spice is chef's kiss. Boy, I ate it up 👀🥵
The only thing that makes no sense to me is the plot. It just seems kinda meh, I'm mostly here for the dark romance and characters at this point. Basically, for funsies and this series is surprisingly delivering in that regards. It's quite fast paced as well, so that's a bonus. It ends on a cliff hanger and I need to be with my demon man Damon so diving right into the next one 😌
~•~•~
When the dedication looks like this- "What an unhinged good fucking reader you are. I knew you'd be gagging for the monsters under the bed… Begging them to drag you down to hell and rearrange your insides. Welcome home."
MA'AM I'M JUST TRYING TO READ... But okay 👀
November 10, 2025
no busquen en internet qué es un glory hole.
June 7, 2025
This novel is the 2nd book in the “Dance with my Demons” series. There was a big cliffhanger in the first book, so of course I had to read this one- only to be left with another great cliffhanger! 🤣
To me, this book was better than the first one. I found it to be more unhinged! It is addictive, suspenseful and dark! There is also mystery and a lot of spice in this one! The characters really developed in this book! It is well written, atmospheric and the setting fits the story. This explores themes of trauma, love and secrets! Overall, I give this a 4.25/5 star rating!
I think people that are fans of a dark romance, a crazy story and unhinged characters would enjoy reading this one. Content warnings include death, abuse, sexual content, gore, murder, violence, child abuse, self harm, physical abuse and sexual assault.
This book is out now on Kindle Unlimited and bookstores everywhere!
To me, this book was better than the first one. I found it to be more unhinged! It is addictive, suspenseful and dark! There is also mystery and a lot of spice in this one! The characters really developed in this book! It is well written, atmospheric and the setting fits the story. This explores themes of trauma, love and secrets! Overall, I give this a 4.25/5 star rating!
I think people that are fans of a dark romance, a crazy story and unhinged characters would enjoy reading this one. Content warnings include death, abuse, sexual content, gore, murder, violence, child abuse, self harm, physical abuse and sexual assault.
This book is out now on Kindle Unlimited and bookstores everywhere!
August 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Well how the turn tables ……. lol !
I actually liked this one. I will say I would still love to have more knowledge of the characters backstories, I would really like to live a little in the past life of Damon, Grey and Theo. I would also enjoy seeing Avery past in more details. I think it would make this series way better. To me the fact that it’s a RH already makes me not love it, but again this is my own fault for not reading what the series was about before starting, begrudgingly I have to admit that the RH part of the story it’s not irking me, I am actually enjoying….. would I prefer if was only Avery and Grey ? DEFINITELY. But I wouldn’t be opposed to be a throuple since i love a good throuple story, the fact is that both Theo and Damon grew on me, and I actually think I like Damon a little more than the others … make it make sense 🤷🏻♀️
What really is keeping me interested in the series is the whole mystery behind the institution and what they are really about it. I loved knowing who’s the family in control there and the power plays.
Even though I just said that the characters grew on me, i have to say that not enough. Unless the next 2 books completely baffles me , I would say that these characters/books won’t be the type to live rent free in my mind. Again might be my own issue since I find these very light dark romances. Perfect for beginners.
Well how the turn tables ……. lol !
I actually liked this one. I will say I would still love to have more knowledge of the characters backstories, I would really like to live a little in the past life of Damon, Grey and Theo. I would also enjoy seeing Avery past in more details. I think it would make this series way better. To me the fact that it’s a RH already makes me not love it, but again this is my own fault for not reading what the series was about before starting, begrudgingly I have to admit that the RH part of the story it’s not irking me, I am actually enjoying….. would I prefer if was only Avery and Grey ? DEFINITELY. But I wouldn’t be opposed to be a throuple since i love a good throuple story, the fact is that both Theo and Damon grew on me, and I actually think I like Damon a little more than the others … make it make sense 🤷🏻♀️
What really is keeping me interested in the series is the whole mystery behind the institution and what they are really about it. I loved knowing who’s the family in control there and the power plays.
Even though I just said that the characters grew on me, i have to say that not enough. Unless the next 2 books completely baffles me , I would say that these characters/books won’t be the type to live rent free in my mind. Again might be my own issue since I find these very light dark romances. Perfect for beginners.
December 12, 2025
My Rating: 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Series standing: This whole fucking series is my Roman Empire and I'll die on that fucking hill.
We Have
✅ Why Choose
✅ He Falls First
✅ Secret Society
✅ Mystery
✅ Dark Themes
✅ Knife Play
✅ Blood Play
✅ Book 2 of 3
Thank FUCK I didn’t have to wait a year for this one because I would have absolutely lost my mind. I opened my Kindle, saw this book, paused for a second like wait… what??? and then it hit me and I was GONE. Immediate excitement. Immediate need. Immediate “I cannot WAIT to see Grey” 😏😏 God I love that man. Like. Love love.
This book picks up exactly where the last one left off. The first few chapters kinda meander and I was like ok ok let’s get movinggggg… and then BOOM. Shit gets real. Grey is Greying HARD. Theo continues to be everything. And then there’s the new guy… and listen… I will not spoil. I WANT to spoil. I crave it. But I won’t. What I will say is when THAT happened… I squealed. An actual squeal. THAT library scene was so. fucking. good.
The first library scene was cute. I liked it. Adorable even. But the moment the fun started after the meeting??? My jaw was on the floor. I was just sitting there grinning like a lunatic. AND THEN. OMG THEN. The free time library scene happened and I genuinely cannot think of another scene I’ve read that tops it. I had to change my damn drawers because GREAT GUGGAMOOGGA.
I highlighted damn near everything Grey said to Avery because if a man doesn’t love me like THAT… I don’t want it. At all. And then FINALLY we’re back at the morgue and I DIED. Passed away. Ceased to exist. I absolutely did not see that coming. I wanted it. I wanted it BAD. But when Steph gave it to me… BRUUUUUUHHHHH. I refuse to cope. I cannot wait until next year. Steph, please. I am begging. Let me be a sensitivity reader. An ARC reader. A beta. A chair in the corner. ANYTHING. Because I am going to diiiiiieeee waiting 😭😭😭😭
There was honestly nothing I didn’t like about this book. I had questions. I got answers. I thought I knew what was happening. Plot twist. I thought I couldn’t love Grey more. Impossible. He just keeps winning.
If this review feels unhinged, that’s because it is. This isn’t a review, it’s a reaction. Book one had me guessing WTF was happening and promising a why choose while I sat there wondering HOW. How is this going to work??? Everything was set up so perfectly. Then book two rolls in and I’m thinking ok I hope we get some good smut… and Steph, yes we’re on a first-name basis now, said hold my beer and went absolutely feral.
The smut??? Delicious AF. But WAIT. There’s more!!!! She said ok now that you’re horny and unwell, let me give you this MF plot. I was screaming. I was not prepared. She did ALL of it. At the same time.
I will now be waiting very impatiently for book three. If this book is any indication of what’s coming next, I’m gonna need plastic sheets 💦🥴💦🥴
If you’re reading this, you’ve already read Unhinged. And if you think you know what’s coming… you don’t.
This book though.
This. Fucking. Book.
Enjoy the ride, babes. It’s going to be fucking phenomenal.
September 2025 needs to hurry the hell up because I. Cannot. Wait.
PLEASE Steph… please don’t make me suffer like this!!!!
Series standing: This whole fucking series is my Roman Empire and I'll die on that fucking hill.
We Have
✅ Why Choose
✅ He Falls First
✅ Secret Society
✅ Mystery
✅ Dark Themes
✅ Knife Play
✅ Blood Play
✅ Book 2 of 3
Thank FUCK I didn’t have to wait a year for this one because I would have absolutely lost my mind. I opened my Kindle, saw this book, paused for a second like wait… what??? and then it hit me and I was GONE. Immediate excitement. Immediate need. Immediate “I cannot WAIT to see Grey” 😏😏 God I love that man. Like. Love love.
This book picks up exactly where the last one left off. The first few chapters kinda meander and I was like ok ok let’s get movinggggg… and then BOOM. Shit gets real. Grey is Greying HARD. Theo continues to be everything. And then there’s the new guy… and listen… I will not spoil. I WANT to spoil. I crave it. But I won’t. What I will say is when THAT happened… I squealed. An actual squeal. THAT library scene was so. fucking. good.
The first library scene was cute. I liked it. Adorable even. But the moment the fun started after the meeting??? My jaw was on the floor. I was just sitting there grinning like a lunatic. AND THEN. OMG THEN. The free time library scene happened and I genuinely cannot think of another scene I’ve read that tops it. I had to change my damn drawers because GREAT GUGGAMOOGGA.
I highlighted damn near everything Grey said to Avery because if a man doesn’t love me like THAT… I don’t want it. At all. And then FINALLY we’re back at the morgue and I DIED. Passed away. Ceased to exist. I absolutely did not see that coming. I wanted it. I wanted it BAD. But when Steph gave it to me… BRUUUUUUHHHHH. I refuse to cope. I cannot wait until next year. Steph, please. I am begging. Let me be a sensitivity reader. An ARC reader. A beta. A chair in the corner. ANYTHING. Because I am going to diiiiiieeee waiting 😭😭😭😭
There was honestly nothing I didn’t like about this book. I had questions. I got answers. I thought I knew what was happening. Plot twist. I thought I couldn’t love Grey more. Impossible. He just keeps winning.
If this review feels unhinged, that’s because it is. This isn’t a review, it’s a reaction. Book one had me guessing WTF was happening and promising a why choose while I sat there wondering HOW. How is this going to work??? Everything was set up so perfectly. Then book two rolls in and I’m thinking ok I hope we get some good smut… and Steph, yes we’re on a first-name basis now, said hold my beer and went absolutely feral.
The smut??? Delicious AF. But WAIT. There’s more!!!! She said ok now that you’re horny and unwell, let me give you this MF plot. I was screaming. I was not prepared. She did ALL of it. At the same time.
I will now be waiting very impatiently for book three. If this book is any indication of what’s coming next, I’m gonna need plastic sheets 💦🥴💦🥴
If you’re reading this, you’ve already read Unhinged. And if you think you know what’s coming… you don’t.
This book though.
This. Fucking. Book.
Enjoy the ride, babes. It’s going to be fucking phenomenal.
September 2025 needs to hurry the hell up because I. Cannot. Wait.
PLEASE Steph… please don’t make me suffer like this!!!!
Read
August 5, 2025⋆. 𐙚 ˚ pre read ⋆. 𐙚 ˚
I have no clue wtf just happened😀
I have no clue wtf just happened😀
September 9, 2025
FINALLY, we find out what the point of the Society is. I think it would have been better to hint at what its purpose was in the first book. It seemed like they just started it to partake in sexual shenanigans. The targeting of Avery by the staff is very confusing. The cliff hanger left me wanting more.
August 9, 2025
4⭐️
"Ring around the rosie. A pocket full of posies. Ashes… Ashes… We all fall down…"
Echoes far outdid book one - and thank fuck for that, because I desperately needed Avery to finally grow a backbone. You don’t survive a hellhole like Lilydale by playing nice. She needs to fight to survive and oh boy, did she end up in the thick of it:
1. May or may NOT have been framed for murder… again.
2. Temporarily arrested… again. (At this point, she should start a punch card.)
3. Made it onto Demon Boy’s shit list.
4. Made it onto Grey’s shit list.
5. Got blamed by Hallman for Hallman’s own damn finger getting cut off - and yes, somehow that landed her on his shit list too.
6. Breathed near Vivian. Instantly condemned.
7. Basically, she’s on everyone’s shit list, including mine still. I’ve actually lost count.
8. Was mentally, physically, existentially and, honestly, spiritually - tortured by Mr. Whittingham, who clearly missed his calling as a Bond villain.
BUT, silver lining - girl still managed to squeeze in some dick appointments between being the walking embodiment of a "this is fine" meme.
And while we’re on the topic of "this is fine"; whys everyone’s go-to response to ANY minor inconvenience - “maybe I need to kill them, or at the very least, remove them from the equation”, how about we try not resorting to first degree murder every time someone mildly irritates you? Revolutionary, I know. Damon, Grey… babes I am LOOKING AT YOU
I don't know what possesses me to do it. I don't even think about it in advance. Her arguing, her defiance, her caring, the way she grabs my arm—it snaps something inside of me. And before I can stop myself or realize it's happening, I do the unthinkable….
OMFG. THE. WAY. I. SCREAMED.
Time to dive back in, book three here I come 🥵
"Ring around the rosie. A pocket full of posies. Ashes… Ashes… We all fall down…"
Echoes far outdid book one - and thank fuck for that, because I desperately needed Avery to finally grow a backbone. You don’t survive a hellhole like Lilydale by playing nice. She needs to fight to survive and oh boy, did she end up in the thick of it:
1. May or may NOT have been framed for murder… again.
2. Temporarily arrested… again. (At this point, she should start a punch card.)
3. Made it onto Demon Boy’s shit list.
4. Made it onto Grey’s shit list.
5. Got blamed by Hallman for Hallman’s own damn finger getting cut off - and yes, somehow that landed her on his shit list too.
6. Breathed near Vivian. Instantly condemned.
7. Basically, she’s on everyone’s shit list, including mine still. I’ve actually lost count.
8. Was mentally, physically, existentially and, honestly, spiritually - tortured by Mr. Whittingham, who clearly missed his calling as a Bond villain.
BUT, silver lining - girl still managed to squeeze in some dick appointments between being the walking embodiment of a "this is fine" meme.
And while we’re on the topic of "this is fine"; whys everyone’s go-to response to ANY minor inconvenience - “maybe I need to kill them, or at the very least, remove them from the equation”, how about we try not resorting to first degree murder every time someone mildly irritates you? Revolutionary, I know. Damon, Grey… babes I am LOOKING AT YOU
I don't know what possesses me to do it. I don't even think about it in advance. Her arguing, her defiance, her caring, the way she grabs my arm—it snaps something inside of me. And before I can stop myself or realize it's happening, I do the unthinkable….
OMFG. THE. WAY. I. SCREAMED.
Time to dive back in, book three here I come 🥵
October 6, 2024
ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER!! AND WE HAVE TO WAIT TILL NEXT YEAR!!!!!
God, the story keeps progressing, and now we know the real reason behind Lilydale. Theo, Grey, and Avery scene 😍🤤
God, the story keeps progressing, and now we know the real reason behind Lilydale. Theo, Grey, and Avery scene 😍🤤
September 7, 2025
WHY??!
WHY MUST WE END LIKE THAT???
It’s too late for me to be going into the next one and now you have me questioning if I should just forego sleep and do just that.
Well, try it again on someone else because I will not be dragged in!
So… I was just kidding there is no way I’m not directly going into the next one… call me a glutton for punishment because that’s what I am. I’ll take it gladly and beg for more.
WHY MUST WE END LIKE THAT???
It’s too late for me to be going into the next one and now you have me questioning if I should just forego sleep and do just that.
Well, try it again on someone else because I will not be dragged in!
So… I was just kidding there is no way I’m not directly going into the next one… call me a glutton for punishment because that’s what I am. I’ll take it gladly and beg for more.
Read
October 28, 2025DNF - because I trust my bookclub girlies when they told me the only good thing about this book was the voiceacting
July 25, 2025
Theo is by far my favorite character in this story so far. He has had Averys back since day one and is so adaptive to her wants/needs. Regardless of how "crazy" he is, he still is so nonchalant about the three of them and helps Grey see that as well. Also, can we talk about Aves character growth! She is a powerhouse and a force! And Damon??? What the heck! The whole twist and turns are becoming quite the story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2025
I think im in love with this series in the audiobook format. The male narrators are so good, makes me all giggly and happy. I read some reviews where people found Avery annoying, but personally I dont agree. Her actions makes sort of sense based on her trauma and mental health, so in my opinion she is fine. I love the male love interests so much, the perfect amount of unhinged and crazy to make me smile.
June 23, 2025
Echoes written by Steph Macca
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini
📖- 5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 3+
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS - This is book 2 and cannot be read as a standalone.
Picking up right where we left off after the insane cliffhanger from Unhinged, Echoes is book two in the Dance With My Demons series. As you should know by now, this rockstar of a full cast did not hold back. Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini once again pulled us into the deranged and demented walls of Lilydale.
This storyline moves much quicker in this book as all the main players have their roles and so much begins to happen. However, we are introduced to new characters that seem to play a huge part in the future of our psychopaths.
Avery has once again found herself in the middle of a dangerous game. I love how the characters have evolved and begin to work somewhat together for the greater purpose, even though we still don’t know what that is. Theo and Grey have found common ground; protecting Avery and Damon, well, he’s still a mystery.
Steph Mecca did not hold back on the spice in this installment and let me be the first to say, I am not mad about it. I have however, changed my views about Grey, and now I think he may be my favorite. He is absolutely insane, but adorable nonetheless. This is another reason why, Why Choose is quickly becoming a go-to genre for me. At the end of the day, you don’t really need to choose.
We are once again left on a massive cliffhanger and I am counting down the days for the third installment.
Do I recommend? OMG, YES!
Format: Audiobook
Narrators: Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini
📖- 5
🎙️- 5
🌶️- 3+
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS - This is book 2 and cannot be read as a standalone.
Picking up right where we left off after the insane cliffhanger from Unhinged, Echoes is book two in the Dance With My Demons series. As you should know by now, this rockstar of a full cast did not hold back. Marie Hawkins, Corvin King, Joe Arden and Anthony Palmini once again pulled us into the deranged and demented walls of Lilydale.
This storyline moves much quicker in this book as all the main players have their roles and so much begins to happen. However, we are introduced to new characters that seem to play a huge part in the future of our psychopaths.
Avery has once again found herself in the middle of a dangerous game. I love how the characters have evolved and begin to work somewhat together for the greater purpose, even though we still don’t know what that is. Theo and Grey have found common ground; protecting Avery and Damon, well, he’s still a mystery.
Steph Mecca did not hold back on the spice in this installment and let me be the first to say, I am not mad about it. I have however, changed my views about Grey, and now I think he may be my favorite. He is absolutely insane, but adorable nonetheless. This is another reason why, Why Choose is quickly becoming a go-to genre for me. At the end of the day, you don’t really need to choose.
We are once again left on a massive cliffhanger and I am counting down the days for the third installment.
Do I recommend? OMG, YES!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
Echoes of pain and memory.
The emotional fallout hits hard.
Every secret peels back another layer of hurt and desire. 💔🔊
The emotional fallout hits hard.
Every secret peels back another layer of hurt and desire. 💔🔊
October 26, 2025
2.5⭐️
I won’t be continuing the series. The plot felt boring, and the romance was all over the place. Grey keeps saying the Avery is his, yet he’s somehow fine with sharing her with Theo while still insisting she belongs to him? It just feels fake and forced, the possessive trope is being used and thrown everywhere without meaning.
I won’t be continuing the series. The plot felt boring, and the romance was all over the place. Grey keeps saying the Avery is his, yet he’s somehow fine with sharing her with Theo while still insisting she belongs to him? It just feels fake and forced, the possessive trope is being used and thrown everywhere without meaning.
September 15, 2025
WOW!!!!
Book 2 far exceeded my expectations on every possible level!! It's seriously that good! The cliffy on this one?!?! Holy cow! I'm choking for the next book!!! March can't get here soon enough.
As with last time - I can't really write a summary because it would ruin the entire book. There are so many mysteries to solve!!!
AVERY WHITE: Even though I can't say I'm fully on her team, she's definitely growing as a character and I'm 1,0000% on board with the love bubble she's creating.
THEO ASHWOOD: Easily my #1. Absolutely love me some Theo. We do get a little of Theo's origin story in this one, but we still don't know his age.
GREY HAWTHORNE: Oh my!! I did not expect the level of crazy that came out of him! He's definitely proved he worships at Avery's feet and he will do anything to protect her. We don't get any of Grey's origin story and we still don't know his age.
DAMON: The more we learn about Damon, the more I feel like I don't know him at all. We get tiny bits of his puzzle, but nowhere close to an origin story. We don't know his last name and we still don't know his age.
SEX: Definitely gets spicy in this one. So far no triple penetration, but I feel like we're working up to that one.
This author has me on the edge of my seat. So thankful for Ms. Dess for sending me this one.
SIDE PIECES: I need to keep track of other characters for when they're referenced again. Plus, characters are referred to by their first names sometimes, and their last names at other times. FYI.
Alexander: Board member.
Dr. Christopher Smith: Psychiatrist, Damon's cousin.
Arthur Whittingham: Foundation's supervisor.
Dr. Markel: Medical doc on staff.
Charmaine: Teacher.
Dorothea “Teddy”: Arthur's assistant/lover. (I'm not sure her exact name. Sometimes they call her Dorothea and sometimes they call her Teddy.)
Dr. William Elsher: New psychiatrist.
CIRQUE des MORTS
Byrone: Jillian's boyfriend.
Jillian: Hacker, Byrone's girlfriend.
Andy Jemison
Leighton Pierce
Louis: Patient.
Mark: Patient.
Sam Hallman: Patient. Vivian's boyfriend.
Vivian Capello: Patient.
Siobhan Kennedy: Patient. Sometimes nice.
Eliana: Patient. Usually nice.
Rian Thatcher: New patient, introduced in Book 2.
Charity Williams: Patient.
Jonathon: Guard.
Connor: Guard.
Tony: Chef.
Margaret: Avery’s caseworker.
Leah: Someone from the past, presumed dead.
Book 2 far exceeded my expectations on every possible level!! It's seriously that good! The cliffy on this one?!?! Holy cow! I'm choking for the next book!!! March can't get here soon enough.
As with last time - I can't really write a summary because it would ruin the entire book. There are so many mysteries to solve!!!
AVERY WHITE: Even though I can't say I'm fully on her team, she's definitely growing as a character and I'm 1,0000% on board with the love bubble she's creating.
Time stands frozen, the clock on the wall broken. But even the clock is still right twice a day.
She's a fucking powerhouse, bringing even the most broken, lost souls to salvation.
I've had a target on my back since day one, and despite it all, some people here would still love to watch me go down in flames.
THEO ASHWOOD: Easily my #1. Absolutely love me some Theo. We do get a little of Theo's origin story in this one, but we still don't know his age.
If God exists, he must be sick. Who would send a divine creature like her into the Devil's lair? And now she's stuck with me.
If anyone lays a single finger on her, bruising her perfect skin, I'll soak them in gasoline and make a bonfire.
She's mine and right now, that's all that matters. I'll kill anyone who takes this from me. They will never touch her again. They'll never take her away.
GREY HAWTHORNE: Oh my!! I did not expect the level of crazy that came out of him! He's definitely proved he worships at Avery's feet and he will do anything to protect her. We don't get any of Grey's origin story and we still don't know his age.
She looks fucking perfect. It makes me want to rip her into tiny pieces just so I can put her back together again.
"You tear me apart from the inside out in the best fucking ways possible. You make me kill for you, you make me want to die for you. I'll burn this whole place down to ashes and paint you with them like the muse you are."
"When you go to heaven one day, I'll drag you back down to hell to join me. Because I'm never leaving you, Avery."
DAMON: The more we learn about Damon, the more I feel like I don't know him at all. We get tiny bits of his puzzle, but nowhere close to an origin story. We don't know his last name and we still don't know his age.
I love seeing the effect I have on people. Who needs violence to control people when you can control their minds and emotions?
Cirque des Morts. My Circus of the Dead. That's what we are here—dead. Dead to society, dead inside.
She's everything I hate—annoying, unpredictable, overly trusting. But also caring, thoughtful, receptive. Most people here respect me out of fear. They are loyal to reap the benefits. Not her though.
SEX: Definitely gets spicy in this one. So far no triple penetration, but I feel like we're working up to that one.
This author has me on the edge of my seat. So thankful for Ms. Dess for sending me this one.
SIDE PIECES: I need to keep track of other characters for when they're referenced again. Plus, characters are referred to by their first names sometimes, and their last names at other times. FYI.
Alexander: Board member.
Dr. Christopher Smith: Psychiatrist, Damon's cousin.
Arthur Whittingham: Foundation's supervisor.
Dr. Markel: Medical doc on staff.
Charmaine: Teacher.
Dorothea “Teddy”: Arthur's assistant/lover. (I'm not sure her exact name. Sometimes they call her Dorothea and sometimes they call her Teddy.)
Dr. William Elsher: New psychiatrist.
CIRQUE des MORTS
Byrone: Jillian's boyfriend.
Jillian: Hacker, Byrone's girlfriend.
Andy Jemison
Leighton Pierce
Louis: Patient.
Mark: Patient.
Sam Hallman: Patient. Vivian's boyfriend.
Vivian Capello: Patient.
Siobhan Kennedy: Patient. Sometimes nice.
Eliana: Patient. Usually nice.
Rian Thatcher: New patient, introduced in Book 2.
Charity Williams: Patient.
Jonathon: Guard.
Connor: Guard.
Tony: Chef.
Margaret: Avery’s caseworker.
Leah: Someone from the past, presumed dead.
August 1, 2025
“When you go to heaven one day, I’ll drag you back down to hell to join me. Because I’m never leaving you, Avery.”
These books are exactly as the first one is titled. They’re unhinged, deliciously unhinged. I ate this up. It only got better from the first. The lengths they’ll go to for Avery! Theo and Grey are crazy and in their own ways for Avery. However they will do what it takes to keep Avery. I never thought I’d be one for why choose. But when you have men like them, can you blame her for not wanting to pick? A Specially when they’re completely obsessed with her.
I didn’t think this would take this path as I missed the why choose on the cover. But boy do they do it perfectly. And now they may have a third person at play for Avery. Though like the chest game reference, the queen hold all the power and that she does. Avery refers to Damon to being the king and holding the power, how wrong he is about to be about that.
Again another cliff hanger here. Boys go get your girl back! Make sure you burn it all down on the way! I would love for that, and I’m sure it’ll be something along those lines to happen.
The audio book is to die for. It had me melting on the floor in a puddle. I think I just died and went to heaven. The cast of the male voices made it for me!
These books are exactly as the first one is titled. They’re unhinged, deliciously unhinged. I ate this up. It only got better from the first. The lengths they’ll go to for Avery! Theo and Grey are crazy and in their own ways for Avery. However they will do what it takes to keep Avery. I never thought I’d be one for why choose. But when you have men like them, can you blame her for not wanting to pick? A Specially when they’re completely obsessed with her.
I didn’t think this would take this path as I missed the why choose on the cover. But boy do they do it perfectly. And now they may have a third person at play for Avery. Though like the chest game reference, the queen hold all the power and that she does. Avery refers to Damon to being the king and holding the power, how wrong he is about to be about that.
Again another cliff hanger here. Boys go get your girl back! Make sure you burn it all down on the way! I would love for that, and I’m sure it’ll be something along those lines to happen.
The audio book is to die for. It had me melting on the floor in a puddle. I think I just died and went to heaven. The cast of the male voices made it for me!
October 24, 2024
Living for the library cleaning scene 🤪 I’m in my why choose era so this series is definitely in my lane. Pretty short read but I’m so invested. I feel like I’m one of the patients at the facility. Theo is my man 🥵
Steph Macca is the queen on cliffhangers!!!! GIRL….you cannot do this to us. Especially waiting til March 2025 ahhhh!! I hope it’s just a placement date 🤞🏻
Steph Macca is the queen on cliffhangers!!!! GIRL….you cannot do this to us. Especially waiting til March 2025 ahhhh!! I hope it’s just a placement date 🤞🏻
December 16, 2025
4.25⭐️ AHHHHH the audiobook is so addictive I can’t be trusted with it, literally binged the first 2 books in 1 day. Only reason this isn’t being rated higher is because 1) I’m very conflicted on Avery, sometimes she’s super nice and other times she plays with the mmcs emotions, and 2) There was not enough Theo.
Theo felt more like a filler character in this book and had far less scenes, but of course he is still my #1. He is so attentive to Avery, and doesn’t ask for anything in return (except for that tattoo😏😏)
Gray really loves Avery and that is evident, willing to compromise his values for the happiness of Avery. I honestly think Avery has been mistreating him in both books, so I really hope his emotions aren’t toyed with as much in book 3.
Damon is still lowkey a dark horse, his feelings towards Avery are there but felt kind of sudden? Not unexpected but the way he acted in her presence changed really quick. But I was screaming in my pillow during the casket scene I can’t lie.
I’m still dying to hear both Gray and Damon’s backstories, they’re still SO elusive.
Theo felt more like a filler character in this book and had far less scenes, but of course he is still my #1. He is so attentive to Avery, and doesn’t ask for anything in return (except for that tattoo😏😏)
Gray really loves Avery and that is evident, willing to compromise his values for the happiness of Avery. I honestly think Avery has been mistreating him in both books, so I really hope his emotions aren’t toyed with as much in book 3.
Damon is still lowkey a dark horse, his feelings towards Avery are there but felt kind of sudden? Not unexpected but the way he acted in her presence changed really quick. But I was screaming in my pillow during the casket scene I can’t lie.
I’m still dying to hear both Gray and Damon’s backstories, they’re still SO elusive.
November 3, 2025
3.5 rounded up! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I needed a quick read to get me out of a slump, and mannnn I’m glad I chose this one! This is the second book in this series and it’s as bloody, dirty, and twisty as I wanted it to be lol. Rated it 3.5 because the characters still lack a bit of depth, and why are we saying things like “I had a niggling feeling” and “I almost yeeted it out of existence” more than once in a story, just no 😭😂 Grey is possessive perfection and Theo is calm and cool - the perfect combo for this “why choose” 😈
“You're not going to avoid me any longer, Avery. I don't care the reason why. Whatever it is, I promise that I'm the bigger threat.” OOOO give me the biggest and the baddest baby 😩
“If anyone lays a single finger on her, bruising her perfect skin, I'll soak them in gasoline and make a bonfire.” 🔥
“We all have problems—take a spoonful of cement and harden the fuck up.” Lmao 😭
I needed a quick read to get me out of a slump, and mannnn I’m glad I chose this one! This is the second book in this series and it’s as bloody, dirty, and twisty as I wanted it to be lol. Rated it 3.5 because the characters still lack a bit of depth, and why are we saying things like “I had a niggling feeling” and “I almost yeeted it out of existence” more than once in a story, just no 😭😂 Grey is possessive perfection and Theo is calm and cool - the perfect combo for this “why choose” 😈
“You're not going to avoid me any longer, Avery. I don't care the reason why. Whatever it is, I promise that I'm the bigger threat.” OOOO give me the biggest and the baddest baby 😩
“If anyone lays a single finger on her, bruising her perfect skin, I'll soak them in gasoline and make a bonfire.” 🔥
“We all have problems—take a spoonful of cement and harden the fuck up.” Lmao 😭
November 11, 2025
well start off fallowing off from book 1
ave makes a deal to come back to lily dale but has to stay away form them , that not going to happen
she somehow manges to get both grey and theo so there working out there diffence
we find more back stories of all main ml and fl nice touch 👍
that morg has more action than it should little jel
ave makes a deal to come back to lily dale but has to stay away form them , that not going to happen
she somehow manges to get both grey and theo so there working out there diffence
we find more back stories of all main ml and fl nice touch 👍
that morg has more action than it should little jel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
Once again I love the full cast duet! There was a little lull in the middle and the one scene felt washed and repeated. The secrets that start coming out are crazy! Another cliff hanger ending
August 5, 2025
I absolutely love this series and can’t wait to dive into the next book. The audiobook is top tier with amazing voice acting that shouldn’t be passed up.
June 27, 2025
I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook for this book and similar to the previous book, I absolutely loved it. I loved how well the narrators played the characters. I also really enjoyed the plot and how it went since the last book was left on a cliffhanger, I absolutely loved the direction it went in and damn the scandal 😱
August 6, 2025
This was really good😭😭😭 which is bad because he 4th book isn't out yet, but that isn't going to stop me from reading the third
September 25, 2025
3.25 stars ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★ Echoes☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶 “And ain't it funny. How you said you were friends? Now it sure as hell don't look like it” 🎶
Avery (h) was framed for murder and never expected to return to those walls. Her quiet comeback explodes when her secrets are exposed and suddenly monsters crawl out of the shadows hungry for blood. As chaos spreads and alliances splinter, Avery must find out who the real unhinged are before more people die.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´THOUGHTSﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
[Theo]
Theo honestly has the best perspective when it comes to understanding why Avery wants to share. He has no opposition at all because of his past. He lost his sister to suicide after she was forced to choose between two people, and she couldn’t handle it. That tragedy makes him so open and understanding now. He just wants Avery to be happy, and he sees nothing wrong with her having feelings for more than one person. Out of all of them, he’s the most grounded and accepting.🥺💗💌🤍
[Grey]
Grey, on the other hand, was still cold to her in the beginning. He ignored her and shut her out until Damon finally got tired of it and forced them to deal with it. He literally locked them in a room together so they would talk and make up. It’s wild that Grey needed Damon’s push and almost his validation to finally reconnect with Avery, but at least it worked.
[Damon]
Then Damon himself… he kissed her at the morgue, which threw everything off again. That moment nearly sent Grey back into another spiral, because he just couldn’t handle the idea of a third person in the mix. But at the end of the day that is Avery’s choice, not his. Meanwhile, Avery spent basically the whole book being punished. Sorting papers on the floor, being starved, being hit - it was nonstop. It really wore her down and made the asylum feel even more twisted.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´OVERALLﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
Lowkey living for the Avery and Damon development. It has been such a long time coming and finally feels like the payoff is here. Watching him slowly drop the walls he built around himself and let her in will be been one of the most satisfying arcs so far.
☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★ Echoes☆⋆｡𖦹°‧★
⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°｡ 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´
🎶 “And ain't it funny. How you said you were friends? Now it sure as hell don't look like it” 🎶
Avery (h) was framed for murder and never expected to return to those walls. Her quiet comeback explodes when her secrets are exposed and suddenly monsters crawl out of the shadows hungry for blood. As chaos spreads and alliances splinter, Avery must find out who the real unhinged are before more people die.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´THOUGHTSﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
[Theo]
"Right," I draw out slowly. "And is he the reason you're avoiding me?"
"No, he's not," she mutters. "But I assumed you'd be mad."
"You're a grown woman. You can make your own choices. Why are you avoiding me?"
"I can't tell you," Avery answers. "But it's for the best."
Theo honestly has the best perspective when it comes to understanding why Avery wants to share. He has no opposition at all because of his past. He lost his sister to suicide after she was forced to choose between two people, and she couldn’t handle it. That tragedy makes him so open and understanding now. He just wants Avery to be happy, and he sees nothing wrong with her having feelings for more than one person. Out of all of them, he’s the most grounded and accepting.🥺💗💌🤍
[Grey]
"You love her," he laughs incredulously, shaking his head. "I should have known."
"I did," I correct him.
"No, you still love her," he points out, opening the door and peering out into the quiet hallway. "Don't mistake me for a fool, Grey. You're smarter than that."
Grey, on the other hand, was still cold to her in the beginning. He ignored her and shut her out until Damon finally got tired of it and forced them to deal with it. He literally locked them in a room together so they would talk and make up. It’s wild that Grey needed Damon’s push and almost his validation to finally reconnect with Avery, but at least it worked.
[Damon]
"Damon," he snaps. "Do you like her?"
"I don't know," I grumble. "I tolerate her. But perhaps she's growing on me. She's shown us great loyalty recently."
Then Damon himself… he kissed her at the morgue, which threw everything off again. That moment nearly sent Grey back into another spiral, because he just couldn’t handle the idea of a third person in the mix. But at the end of the day that is Avery’s choice, not his. Meanwhile, Avery spent basically the whole book being punished. Sorting papers on the floor, being starved, being hit - it was nonstop. It really wore her down and made the asylum feel even more twisted.
—*•.¸♡ ★·.·☾ ﾟ｡´OVERALLﾟ☁︎｡`·.·★ ♡¸.•*⋆—
Lowkey living for the Avery and Damon development. It has been such a long time coming and finally feels like the payoff is here. Watching him slowly drop the walls he built around himself and let her in will be been one of the most satisfying arcs so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
Wow this was even BETTER!
I'm going to wait until the next audiobook comes out because I don't want to read these books any other way.
I admire Avery's strength. She's been through a lot, yet she keeps pushing forward. I love how she stood her ground and refused to give up Theo and Grey. (I wouldn't have, either)
I'm still a Theo Ashwood girl through and through. We finally got a glimpse of his backstory, but only three pov chapters across two books is sooo rude.
I don't think I've ever read about a man more obsessed than Grey Hawthorne. This is exactly how I want them in books.
The library scene!??😅😅😅 I was giggling and kicking my feet. I LOVE why choose books.
I have to admit I didn't find Damon too annoying, but I'm still not very fond of him. I'm usually not a huge fan of arrogant mmcs because they rarely get a reality check. But things might be different in book 3, given how this one ended. Also, I realized we still don't know his last name.
I'm going to wait until the next audiobook comes out because I don't want to read these books any other way.
I admire Avery's strength. She's been through a lot, yet she keeps pushing forward. I love how she stood her ground and refused to give up Theo and Grey. (I wouldn't have, either)
I'm still a Theo Ashwood girl through and through. We finally got a glimpse of his backstory, but only three pov chapters across two books is sooo rude.
I don't think I've ever read about a man more obsessed than Grey Hawthorne. This is exactly how I want them in books.
The library scene!??😅😅😅 I was giggling and kicking my feet. I LOVE why choose books.
I have to admit I didn't find Damon too annoying, but I'm still not very fond of him. I'm usually not a huge fan of arrogant mmcs because they rarely get a reality check. But things might be different in book 3, given how this one ended. Also, I realized we still don't know his last name.
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