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Blood Ties
A spring break road trip turns into a horrorshow when Riley's friends are murdered by a family of serial killers. But her fate may be even worse, because the Duvall brothers want to keep her…
Riley
My friends are dead. Sometimes I envy them, because now I'm stuck here alone, chained up in the basement of a family of psychopaths.
But I'm determined to survive. And that means I have to keep these two insane brothers happy. Kai is different than the rest; sometimes it seems like he might have a heart. If I can manipulate him into falling in love with me, he might set me free. But if I don't stay on his brutal brother Knox's good side, he'll make sure I never see daylight again.
It's a dangerous game, keeping both brothers interested… and I'm not sure if I can trust either one.
Kai
Every day, I wake up and do whatever Dad tells me to. I clean, feed the animals, take care of Momma, and butcher the bodies when the rest of my family is done having their fun.
I've never known a life other than this.
But Riley changes everything for me. She's kind. She's smart. And most of all, she treats me like an actual person. I know she deserves better than being a prisoner and a plaything for Knox.
With her whispering in one ear and my brother in the other, sooner or later, I'm going to have to choose: let Riley die, or kill my family to set her free…
Blood Ties is a dark horror romance containing potentially triggering content such as forced captivity, noncon, dubcon, abuse, murder, and self-harm. Reader discretion is advised.
Riley
My friends are dead. Sometimes I envy them, because now I'm stuck here alone, chained up in the basement of a family of psychopaths.
But I'm determined to survive. And that means I have to keep these two insane brothers happy. Kai is different than the rest; sometimes it seems like he might have a heart. If I can manipulate him into falling in love with me, he might set me free. But if I don't stay on his brutal brother Knox's good side, he'll make sure I never see daylight again.
It's a dangerous game, keeping both brothers interested… and I'm not sure if I can trust either one.
Kai
Every day, I wake up and do whatever Dad tells me to. I clean, feed the animals, take care of Momma, and butcher the bodies when the rest of my family is done having their fun.
I've never known a life other than this.
But Riley changes everything for me. She's kind. She's smart. And most of all, she treats me like an actual person. I know she deserves better than being a prisoner and a plaything for Knox.
With her whispering in one ear and my brother in the other, sooner or later, I'm going to have to choose: let Riley die, or kill my family to set her free…
Blood Ties is a dark horror romance containing potentially triggering content such as forced captivity, noncon, dubcon, abuse, murder, and self-harm. Reader discretion is advised.
307 pages, ebook
Published July 19, 2025
1 person is currently reading
162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 14, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
This book was pretty decent. Wouldn’t say it’s super great, but still enjoyed the thrill of the story. It’s very well written and descriptive. This book has: crazy family, murders, Stockholm syndrome, rape, and a thriller chase
This book was pretty decent. Wouldn’t say it’s super great, but still enjoyed the thrill of the story. It’s very well written and descriptive. This book has: crazy family, murders, Stockholm syndrome, rape, and a thriller chase
July 16, 2025
“Because every time I’m close to Riley, I want her so badly I can barely breathe.”
I would love nothing more than to take Kai and protect him at all cost!! When Riley and her friends get stranded in a small town after their truck dies, Knox offers them a place to crash for the night in promise to fix the truck in the morning. But when things go south the next morning, Riley is the only one left of her friends and sweet Kia has locked her in their basement. Survival is her only option and she is willing to do whatever is takes to make out alive. I will take NO CRITICISM over this book. I wasn’t expecting the twist and turns of it but god, I loved it! Check your trigger warns though guys! Things get crazy AF! But I promise, you will not be disappointed.
Forced Proximity, Virgin MMC, Survival, Mental Illness Rep, 1st person POV, dual
I would love nothing more than to take Kai and protect him at all cost!! When Riley and her friends get stranded in a small town after their truck dies, Knox offers them a place to crash for the night in promise to fix the truck in the morning. But when things go south the next morning, Riley is the only one left of her friends and sweet Kia has locked her in their basement. Survival is her only option and she is willing to do whatever is takes to make out alive. I will take NO CRITICISM over this book. I wasn’t expecting the twist and turns of it but god, I loved it! Check your trigger warns though guys! Things get crazy AF! But I promise, you will not be disappointed.
Forced Proximity, Virgin MMC, Survival, Mental Illness Rep, 1st person POV, dual
July 19, 2025
☆☆☆please check your trigger and content warnings first☆☆☆
I was so intrigued by this book when I first heard about it and it did not disappoint! if you are into horror with really dark themes and decent helping of spice, check this out! the ending almost made me cry and I am not an emotional person at all.
I urge you to double and triple check your triggers as this gets dark.
I was so intrigued by this book when I first heard about it and it did not disappoint! if you are into horror with really dark themes and decent helping of spice, check this out! the ending almost made me cry and I am not an emotional person at all.
I urge you to double and triple check your triggers as this gets dark.
July 10, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I was hooked from the first pages and I could not put it down! I received this amazing book as an ARC and I am going to make all of my friends read it when it releases! It’s DARK romance but it still has a HEA which honestly is a must for me. Definitely check trigger warnings because it does get intense at times. I really felt like I was right there watching everything unfold with how good the writing was. Definitely for anyone who is a big fan of criminal minds because it feels like you are living in an episode!
July 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dual POV
I had the honor of arc reading this book and I was shocked. I kind of thought there would be more horror to it. Or maybe I’ve just read too much that this was an easy book to read.
There are definitely detailed explanations and descriptions. So beware when reading this book. So read trigger warnings
But we start off with Riley and her three friends. Their car breaks down on their way to a festival. So they stop by a bar and call for some help. In comes Knox, who already gives Riley a bad feeling (should have listened). He offers some help and a place to stay for the night.
When they get to his house we meet Kai, Knox’s brother. And from there the night will turn worse when their dad comes home early for the night.
Character wise we have three main character. Riley, Kai and Knox. And while Knox doesn’t get a POV he is heavily involved.
Riley, our FMC, is in school to be a teacher when she gets kidnapped by the family of killers. She has a plan do use one of the brothers to make her way out.
Kai, our MMC, is a tortured man who has only ever known his abusive family his whole life.
Knox, who is Kai’s older brother is one of the brothers that Riley is forced to be with under the guise for their father so she doesn’t get killed. Knox is very aggressive and seems to only care for Kai in his own twisted way.
Riley finds a way to weasel into Kai’s head. Which pissed Knox off. So we see a lot of two sides and misinformation given to Kai, to manipulate him.
Eventually Riley starts to realize Kai ain’t that bad and helps him to learn how to read. We also learn that Kai, in a way is very mentally unstable.
In the end there is no cliffhanger so it’s an HEA. But I will that I wish we got more leading up to the epilogues. I wanted more detail of the characters coming together and being with each other outside of the hell house.
I will say reading Riley and Kai’s thoughts really makes you understand both sides of things. You have Riley desperate to leave. And Kai who wants to leave but has been so mentally abused that he can’t.
I wish we got more details on why Knox was so possessive of Kai and why he had a twisted fascination with him
Overall it was a good book, I wanted to say I could see how it could be horror for some people. But for me it was just a black dark romance
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dual POV
I had the honor of arc reading this book and I was shocked. I kind of thought there would be more horror to it. Or maybe I’ve just read too much that this was an easy book to read.
There are definitely detailed explanations and descriptions. So beware when reading this book. So read trigger warnings
But we start off with Riley and her three friends. Their car breaks down on their way to a festival. So they stop by a bar and call for some help. In comes Knox, who already gives Riley a bad feeling (should have listened). He offers some help and a place to stay for the night.
When they get to his house we meet Kai, Knox’s brother. And from there the night will turn worse when their dad comes home early for the night.
Character wise we have three main character. Riley, Kai and Knox. And while Knox doesn’t get a POV he is heavily involved.
Riley, our FMC, is in school to be a teacher when she gets kidnapped by the family of killers. She has a plan do use one of the brothers to make her way out.
Kai, our MMC, is a tortured man who has only ever known his abusive family his whole life.
Knox, who is Kai’s older brother is one of the brothers that Riley is forced to be with under the guise for their father so she doesn’t get killed. Knox is very aggressive and seems to only care for Kai in his own twisted way.
Riley finds a way to weasel into Kai’s head. Which pissed Knox off. So we see a lot of two sides and misinformation given to Kai, to manipulate him.
Eventually Riley starts to realize Kai ain’t that bad and helps him to learn how to read. We also learn that Kai, in a way is very mentally unstable.
In the end there is no cliffhanger so it’s an HEA. But I will that I wish we got more leading up to the epilogues. I wanted more detail of the characters coming together and being with each other outside of the hell house.
I will say reading Riley and Kai’s thoughts really makes you understand both sides of things. You have Riley desperate to leave. And Kai who wants to leave but has been so mentally abused that he can’t.
I wish we got more details on why Knox was so possessive of Kai and why he had a twisted fascination with him
Overall it was a good book, I wanted to say I could see how it could be horror for some people. But for me it was just a black dark romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
ARC Review
I have to start by saying I've read many dark romances, and Blood Ties almost immediately set itself apart. From the organic dialog, realistic characters and just f*cked up situations, I was hooked immediately.
One of my biggest complaints with horror stories, movies and books, is how long it takes to get to the real grime. That is not a problem with Blood Ties. You almost immediately feel something is off, and outside of the necessary exposition, you get hit HARD with the reality of our FMC's circumstances.
Our FMC Riley is real and relatable. She wallows, as one would, then she fights, she manipulates, she learns. In the short time we spend with her, you feel what she feels and my heart broke for her, but then I also found myself applauding her cleverness. We all hope we dont end up in those situations, but if I ever did, I want to be able to handle it like Riley.
Now the boys; Kai and Knox are two sides of the same coin, and we see their strange but strong relationship evolve over the story. With Riley being a shiny new toy to both, you get to see how each takes "care" of her.
I enjoyed Kai and his softness. That also set this book apart since so many other dark romances have the same confident, broody, and often unhinged MMC. Despite the circumstances, Kai was a breath of fresh air.
Knox falls more in the usual category, but he needed to for it to work. Despite the obvious red flags, I still felt for Knox and what he ultimately wanted.
Overall, the pacing was perfect, and each new chapter left me guessing how in the Hell this could end. The spice was also well balanced and never felt unnecessary. I was surprised and satisfied with the whole experience.
In the end, I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves slasher horrors and ever wondered if they can fall in love.
I have to start by saying I've read many dark romances, and Blood Ties almost immediately set itself apart. From the organic dialog, realistic characters and just f*cked up situations, I was hooked immediately.
One of my biggest complaints with horror stories, movies and books, is how long it takes to get to the real grime. That is not a problem with Blood Ties. You almost immediately feel something is off, and outside of the necessary exposition, you get hit HARD with the reality of our FMC's circumstances.
Our FMC Riley is real and relatable. She wallows, as one would, then she fights, she manipulates, she learns. In the short time we spend with her, you feel what she feels and my heart broke for her, but then I also found myself applauding her cleverness. We all hope we dont end up in those situations, but if I ever did, I want to be able to handle it like Riley.
Now the boys; Kai and Knox are two sides of the same coin, and we see their strange but strong relationship evolve over the story. With Riley being a shiny new toy to both, you get to see how each takes "care" of her.
I enjoyed Kai and his softness. That also set this book apart since so many other dark romances have the same confident, broody, and often unhinged MMC. Despite the circumstances, Kai was a breath of fresh air.
Knox falls more in the usual category, but he needed to for it to work. Despite the obvious red flags, I still felt for Knox and what he ultimately wanted.
Overall, the pacing was perfect, and each new chapter left me guessing how in the Hell this could end. The spice was also well balanced and never felt unnecessary. I was surprised and satisfied with the whole experience.
In the end, I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves slasher horrors and ever wondered if they can fall in love.
July 19, 2025
🖤ARC REVIEW FOR BLOOD TIES.🖤
I absolutely loved this book. Right off the bat I knew I was going to enjoy this book just by reading the first sentence. It captivated me, it’s very dark and I’m obsessed with it. Though, I do want to point out that theirs a lot of dark & heavy themes to this story, if you plan to read this book please check the trigger warnings. Your mental health matters first. This book may not be for everyone.♥️
I won’t spoil the story, but I very much loved the plot & the character development. I will admit I did cry a lot & screamed a few times. (Had a few breakdowns, anger blowouts.👀😋) but it was so worth it. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat, my heart would race with anticipation, waiting for something I knew was gonna happen, I swear this book pulled out a lot of emotions from me, some I couldn’t even process or understand but I loved it!
I love myself a bloody, dark & gory story, obviously mixed with some little bits of spice.💋 I will admit that this is my first time reading a novel like this, so dark & twisted, but I pretty much liked it, despite the heavy themes, and how dark this story was, especially between the characters in the book.
I could not, would not put this book down, I was desperate to find out what was going to happen next. Scared to finish this book, shedding a few tears. yet I was eager to know how this was going to finish.
I was a bit heartbroken when I was done with this book. These characters will always have a special place in my heart. And I will still need to process the shock I experienced, definitely recommend reading this book.💋🖤
This is a piece of artwork.💋🖤
I absolutely loved this book. Right off the bat I knew I was going to enjoy this book just by reading the first sentence. It captivated me, it’s very dark and I’m obsessed with it. Though, I do want to point out that theirs a lot of dark & heavy themes to this story, if you plan to read this book please check the trigger warnings. Your mental health matters first. This book may not be for everyone.♥️
I won’t spoil the story, but I very much loved the plot & the character development. I will admit I did cry a lot & screamed a few times. (Had a few breakdowns, anger blowouts.👀😋) but it was so worth it. The whole time I was on the edge of my seat, my heart would race with anticipation, waiting for something I knew was gonna happen, I swear this book pulled out a lot of emotions from me, some I couldn’t even process or understand but I loved it!
I love myself a bloody, dark & gory story, obviously mixed with some little bits of spice.💋 I will admit that this is my first time reading a novel like this, so dark & twisted, but I pretty much liked it, despite the heavy themes, and how dark this story was, especially between the characters in the book.
I could not, would not put this book down, I was desperate to find out what was going to happen next. Scared to finish this book, shedding a few tears. yet I was eager to know how this was going to finish.
I was a bit heartbroken when I was done with this book. These characters will always have a special place in my heart. And I will still need to process the shock I experienced, definitely recommend reading this book.💋🖤
This is a piece of artwork.💋🖤
July 20, 2025
Wowza this book made me question so many things but I loved it! It honestly was quite darker than I expected it to be at first which made the twists that much better. If you're into psychological thrillers mixed with spice and a SMIDGE of insanity, this book is for you. It had me gasping while clutching my imaginary pearls, to wanting to swaddle the leads in a million blankets, to wishing to drop kick side characters off of a cliff. This book will put you through the wringer emotionally so be prepared! Read the trigger warnings. There are some pretty dark aspects BUT there is a HEA.
Riley is the girl next door type of character when you first meet her but not everything is as it seems. She has a wild side that's fierce and waiting to be unleashed. She's not afraid to get her hands dirty yet she knows how to play it smart without someone catching on. Kai is the literal definition of traumatized sad boy. He needs 50 hugs at the bare minimum and loads of therapy. He has a soft heart yet is trying to be hardened in the world he's forced to survive in. Getting to have the dual prospectives truly takes this story to the next level. You get to experience the whirlwind of the story from both points of view and personally, I think that makes the story that much more gripping and compelling. It's fairly fast paced but it's easy to follow along to. I think this book brushes along the lines of taboo quite well and does a good job of giving the Duvall family the creepiest backstory I've read in a hot minute.
Riley is the girl next door type of character when you first meet her but not everything is as it seems. She has a wild side that's fierce and waiting to be unleashed. She's not afraid to get her hands dirty yet she knows how to play it smart without someone catching on. Kai is the literal definition of traumatized sad boy. He needs 50 hugs at the bare minimum and loads of therapy. He has a soft heart yet is trying to be hardened in the world he's forced to survive in. Getting to have the dual prospectives truly takes this story to the next level. You get to experience the whirlwind of the story from both points of view and personally, I think that makes the story that much more gripping and compelling. It's fairly fast paced but it's easy to follow along to. I think this book brushes along the lines of taboo quite well and does a good job of giving the Duvall family the creepiest backstory I've read in a hot minute.
July 9, 2025
⚠️ Trigger warnings galore – this book is DARK. Please check them and take care of your mental health first. ⚠️
Blood Ties had me hooked from the very first page. A group of friends stumbles into a nightmare, and instead of being rescued, they end up trapped in the home of a family of serial killers. Yeah… it’s that kind of story.
What really pulled me in was how layered and twisted it all is. Kai, our MMC, is a total walking red flag—with a green cape—and somehow, I still found myself caring way more than I should. He’s been raised in absolute horror, and even though he’s part of the madness, he’s also just as trapped as everyone else.
Riley, our FMC, doesn’t just lie down and take it. She fights in the only way she can—through strategy and survival. Watching her try to manipulate her way out of an impossible situation is intense, and when things backfire (which they do), it’s in all the worst and most gripping ways.
This isn’t your typical dark romance—it’s brutal, emotional, and morally gray in every sense. If you’re looking for something sweet and safe, this isn’t it. But if you’re into pitch-black, high-stakes stories with twisted characters and even twistier relationships, Blood Ties is one you’ll be thinking about long after you finish.
Just… seriously, check those trigger warnings first.
**Note to Author: Thank you so much for the opportunity to have early access to read this amazing book! It truly was a work of art.
Blood Ties had me hooked from the very first page. A group of friends stumbles into a nightmare, and instead of being rescued, they end up trapped in the home of a family of serial killers. Yeah… it’s that kind of story.
What really pulled me in was how layered and twisted it all is. Kai, our MMC, is a total walking red flag—with a green cape—and somehow, I still found myself caring way more than I should. He’s been raised in absolute horror, and even though he’s part of the madness, he’s also just as trapped as everyone else.
Riley, our FMC, doesn’t just lie down and take it. She fights in the only way she can—through strategy and survival. Watching her try to manipulate her way out of an impossible situation is intense, and when things backfire (which they do), it’s in all the worst and most gripping ways.
This isn’t your typical dark romance—it’s brutal, emotional, and morally gray in every sense. If you’re looking for something sweet and safe, this isn’t it. But if you’re into pitch-black, high-stakes stories with twisted characters and even twistier relationships, Blood Ties is one you’ll be thinking about long after you finish.
Just… seriously, check those trigger warnings first.
**Note to Author: Thank you so much for the opportunity to have early access to read this amazing book! It truly was a work of art.
July 19, 2025
Make sure to check your triggers as Blood Ties grips you from the first page. It’s raw, gut-wrenching, and terrifying in the most gripping way possible.
After their truck breaks down in a remote town, Riley and her friends are offered shelter for the night by a seemingly kind local named Knox, who promises to fix their vehicle by morning. Grateful and out of options, they accept. But what starts as an act of kindness quickly unravels into a living nightmare. By sunrise, Riley finds herself alone—her friends have mysteriously vanished, and the warm hospitality has turned cold and twisted. Now trapped in the basement by the deceptively sweet Kia, Riley realizes too late that they’ve stumbled not into safety, but into the lair of a murderous family with no intention of letting them leave.
Blood Ties grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. This isn’t a typical dark romance—it’s savage, emotionally raw, and drenched in moral uncertainty. If you're in the mood for something gentle or predictable, this isn't the story for you. But if you’re drawn to stories that are relentlessly dark, filled with danger, and feature characters as twisted as their relationships, then this book will linger in your mind long after it's over.
Fans of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and House of 1000 Corpses will be hooked by this haunting, blood-soaked ride.
After their truck breaks down in a remote town, Riley and her friends are offered shelter for the night by a seemingly kind local named Knox, who promises to fix their vehicle by morning. Grateful and out of options, they accept. But what starts as an act of kindness quickly unravels into a living nightmare. By sunrise, Riley finds herself alone—her friends have mysteriously vanished, and the warm hospitality has turned cold and twisted. Now trapped in the basement by the deceptively sweet Kia, Riley realizes too late that they’ve stumbled not into safety, but into the lair of a murderous family with no intention of letting them leave.
Blood Ties grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. This isn’t a typical dark romance—it’s savage, emotionally raw, and drenched in moral uncertainty. If you're in the mood for something gentle or predictable, this isn't the story for you. But if you’re drawn to stories that are relentlessly dark, filled with danger, and feature characters as twisted as their relationships, then this book will linger in your mind long after it's over.
Fans of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and House of 1000 Corpses will be hooked by this haunting, blood-soaked ride.
July 8, 2025
Dark. Twisted. Completely Addictive.
Blood Ties is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go until the very last page. It’s brutal, it’s heartbreaking, and it’s horrifying in all the best ways.
Riley’s nightmare becomes our obsession. Trapped in a basement by a family of sadistic murderers, her fight to survive is both gut-wrenching and gripping. Her twisted dance between two brothers—cold-blooded Knox and emotionally starved Kai—is a psychological game of survival that keeps you guessing who’s truly the bigger monster. And yet, somehow, you’ll find yourself rooting for one… and questioning your own sanity for doing so.
Kai is the perfect monster with a soul—raised in a world soaked in blood, but torn by guilt and desire. His connection with Riley is fragile, dangerous, and beautifully toxic. It’s not just a romance; it’s survival wrapped in barbed wire and bleeding red flags.
Fans of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and House of 1000 Corpses will devour this dark gem. But be warned: this is not a love story for the faint of heart. It’s a slow descent into madness—and you’ll love every second of it.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily left this review.
Blood Ties is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go until the very last page. It’s brutal, it’s heartbreaking, and it’s horrifying in all the best ways.
Riley’s nightmare becomes our obsession. Trapped in a basement by a family of sadistic murderers, her fight to survive is both gut-wrenching and gripping. Her twisted dance between two brothers—cold-blooded Knox and emotionally starved Kai—is a psychological game of survival that keeps you guessing who’s truly the bigger monster. And yet, somehow, you’ll find yourself rooting for one… and questioning your own sanity for doing so.
Kai is the perfect monster with a soul—raised in a world soaked in blood, but torn by guilt and desire. His connection with Riley is fragile, dangerous, and beautifully toxic. It’s not just a romance; it’s survival wrapped in barbed wire and bleeding red flags.
Fans of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and House of 1000 Corpses will devour this dark gem. But be warned: this is not a love story for the faint of heart. It’s a slow descent into madness—and you’ll love every second of it.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily left this review.
July 18, 2025
Wow, what a crazy wild ride.
Blood Ties really lies in the erotic horror genre - there is a ton of darkness here that goes beyond the typical dark romance, although there is an HEA. The FMC, Riley, is stuck in a farmhouse after her friends are murdered by a twisted family of killers. She is being "kept" for the MMC, Kai, who is different from his family - gentler and with some compassion. But Kai is still part of the family that keeps her chained, and there is a lot of tension created by Riley's captivity. At the same time, Kai's brother Knox is dangerous, and he'll hurt Riley and maybe even Kai if he decides she's no longer useful - so Riley must keep Knox interested enough to stay alive.
This is so, so twisted, and there are twists and turns that make sure you never feel safe. But somehow the author does the nearly impossible and makes the MMC lovable even though he's initially complicit in Riley's capture. The journey all of the characters take is insane and well worth the read.
If you'd like to read, make sure you check the triggers here - it's very, very dark. I wouldn't read it right before bed unless you want nightmares.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
Blood Ties really lies in the erotic horror genre - there is a ton of darkness here that goes beyond the typical dark romance, although there is an HEA. The FMC, Riley, is stuck in a farmhouse after her friends are murdered by a twisted family of killers. She is being "kept" for the MMC, Kai, who is different from his family - gentler and with some compassion. But Kai is still part of the family that keeps her chained, and there is a lot of tension created by Riley's captivity. At the same time, Kai's brother Knox is dangerous, and he'll hurt Riley and maybe even Kai if he decides she's no longer useful - so Riley must keep Knox interested enough to stay alive.
This is so, so twisted, and there are twists and turns that make sure you never feel safe. But somehow the author does the nearly impossible and makes the MMC lovable even though he's initially complicit in Riley's capture. The journey all of the characters take is insane and well worth the read.
If you'd like to read, make sure you check the triggers here - it's very, very dark. I wouldn't read it right before bed unless you want nightmares.
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy!
July 20, 2025
Two brothers, one captive
Dark horror romance.
Be advised check TW, this one is not for the faint of heart.
This was a thrilling rollercoaster ride of emotions. I could not put this one down between the shock and horror I was transfixed.
Riley (FMC) is captured by a family of psychos. She plays it smart and tries to appeal to the needs of the kind/shy brother to gain his trust. She is trying to devise her plan to escape but will she succeed before developing her own mixed-up feelings?
Kai (MMC) is trying his hardest to keep her alive in this house of psychopaths. Forced to live this life, this is all he's known his whole life. I'll be honest my heart ached for him having to have endured such horrors and lived this way. His older brother is the only one who has ever shown him any kindness besides his mother. Will he be able to go against his family and save the girl?
I was not expecting that ending. I was seriously on the edge of my seat. Even with so many conflicting feelings, I was left satisfied with the ending.
Thank you Isabella Black for letting me be a part of your ARC team. I had a great time on this wild ride of a story you created.
Dark horror romance.
Be advised check TW, this one is not for the faint of heart.
This was a thrilling rollercoaster ride of emotions. I could not put this one down between the shock and horror I was transfixed.
Riley (FMC) is captured by a family of psychos. She plays it smart and tries to appeal to the needs of the kind/shy brother to gain his trust. She is trying to devise her plan to escape but will she succeed before developing her own mixed-up feelings?
Kai (MMC) is trying his hardest to keep her alive in this house of psychopaths. Forced to live this life, this is all he's known his whole life. I'll be honest my heart ached for him having to have endured such horrors and lived this way. His older brother is the only one who has ever shown him any kindness besides his mother. Will he be able to go against his family and save the girl?
I was not expecting that ending. I was seriously on the edge of my seat. Even with so many conflicting feelings, I was left satisfied with the ending.
Thank you Isabella Black for letting me be a part of your ARC team. I had a great time on this wild ride of a story you created.
July 21, 2025
5⭐️ & 3🌶️
This book had me hooked from the tropes in general, and I went in excited and left in shocked. This book was so amazing. I don’t think ive read a book where I couldn’t think of how it would’ve ended. But im glad this book made me think and had me questioning all the different outcomes for the ending.
Riley’s character from the beginning I knew she would be a fighter no matter the circumstances. And thats what she did. Her manipulation was everything but those little moments where it didn’t feel like it was soooo GREAT!!!!
Kai, omg this mmc has stole my heart. I feel like every book I’ve read with the MMC’s name being Kai, he’s always the most purest and kindness MMC ever and I love that. He is gentle and truly just has a pure soul. He never belonged in that family, he was too good for them. His kindness towards Riley made me love him more and more each time, because although he knew the situation she was in was not ideal and his fault, he still made sure she was being taken care of and was protected.
Amazing book, thank you Isabella Black for having me be on your ARC team for this book!!!!
This book had me hooked from the tropes in general, and I went in excited and left in shocked. This book was so amazing. I don’t think ive read a book where I couldn’t think of how it would’ve ended. But im glad this book made me think and had me questioning all the different outcomes for the ending.
Riley’s character from the beginning I knew she would be a fighter no matter the circumstances. And thats what she did. Her manipulation was everything but those little moments where it didn’t feel like it was soooo GREAT!!!!
Kai, omg this mmc has stole my heart. I feel like every book I’ve read with the MMC’s name being Kai, he’s always the most purest and kindness MMC ever and I love that. He is gentle and truly just has a pure soul. He never belonged in that family, he was too good for them. His kindness towards Riley made me love him more and more each time, because although he knew the situation she was in was not ideal and his fault, he still made sure she was being taken care of and was protected.
Amazing book, thank you Isabella Black for having me be on your ARC team for this book!!!!
August 2, 2025
I have so many things to say about this book. It lived in my head rent free all week and I know I am about to have the biggest book hangover of my life. I have not screamed at a book in so long and I had to walk away a few times for a 15min processing time out of pure shock 😅
Morally grey/black brothers. I kept finding excuses for Kai and I held out hope for Knox for a long time. This book was DARK but I loved allllll of it. My heart hurts for so many of these characters. Riley is so strong. It's hard to say much about this book without spoiling too much.
I didn't see how this book was going to end well but it pulled through in the end. I think there was enough plot holes that I am hoping and praying for a second book in the series🙏 I think when Kai and Knox's dad mentioned his brother that got kicked out and is living out there, I saw the possibility of his story. Maybe a prequel? OR that brother finds out how this story ends and finds Riley and tries to get revenge?? Idk I'm just not ready to let this story go. It kept me in a CHOKEHOLD.
Not a book for everybody but 5 stars from me 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌶🌶
Morally grey/black brothers. I kept finding excuses for Kai and I held out hope for Knox for a long time. This book was DARK but I loved allllll of it. My heart hurts for so many of these characters. Riley is so strong. It's hard to say much about this book without spoiling too much.
I didn't see how this book was going to end well but it pulled through in the end. I think there was enough plot holes that I am hoping and praying for a second book in the series🙏 I think when Kai and Knox's dad mentioned his brother that got kicked out and is living out there, I saw the possibility of his story. Maybe a prequel? OR that brother finds out how this story ends and finds Riley and tries to get revenge?? Idk I'm just not ready to let this story go. It kept me in a CHOKEHOLD.
Not a book for everybody but 5 stars from me 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌶🌶
July 27, 2025
If you loved 90s horror movies then you will love this book. Riley and three of her friends are heading out on a spring break road trip to California for a music festival. Before they can get out of Texas, their car breaks down in the middle of nowhere with no cell service. The town mechanic is out of town, but his son, Knox, isn't, and he offers them a place to stay for the night. This will forever change their lives.
This is dual pov. Riley and Kai, Knox's younger brother. Kai is a shelter boy, and forced to do things that he views as wrong, but must do to stay alive. With Riley's arrival, his eyes open to his family's doing even more critically. Riley realizes she will have to do things she may not want to if she wants to live and get justice.
Do not read the synopsis if you do not want to be spoiled. Go into this book blind, but read the trigger warnings to protect yourself.
If you had told me 20 years ago in my teens that I would let alone read a horror book, let alone love it, I would call BS.
I received an ARC copy for an honest voluntary review.
This is dual pov. Riley and Kai, Knox's younger brother. Kai is a shelter boy, and forced to do things that he views as wrong, but must do to stay alive. With Riley's arrival, his eyes open to his family's doing even more critically. Riley realizes she will have to do things she may not want to if she wants to live and get justice.
Do not read the synopsis if you do not want to be spoiled. Go into this book blind, but read the trigger warnings to protect yourself.
If you had told me 20 years ago in my teens that I would let alone read a horror book, let alone love it, I would call BS.
I received an ARC copy for an honest voluntary review.
July 8, 2025
Just Finished this book and let me just start by saying.. I started it last night. Its 10am now. 🤣
If you like DARK romance with heavy plot, Murder Family, horror movies and maybe even some Texas chainsaw vibes? Welp this might be the book for you.
Riley and her friends are on their way to a music festival. When her friend's car breaks down.
Let's just say things take a turn and Riley finds herself the only one left alive with a family of serial killers. That reason being, the Duvall brothers want to KEEP her.
This story never slows down. It kept me interested throughout my entire read. This book is about survival, trauma. While you may not think so and want to give up hope, there is a HEA and if you ask me... I could go for a second book because I want more haha
*Please read the triggers before diving in. It is heavy on certain topics that may be sensitive or hard to read.*
If you like DARK romance with heavy plot, Murder Family, horror movies and maybe even some Texas chainsaw vibes? Welp this might be the book for you.
Riley and her friends are on their way to a music festival. When her friend's car breaks down.
Let's just say things take a turn and Riley finds herself the only one left alive with a family of serial killers. That reason being, the Duvall brothers want to KEEP her.
This story never slows down. It kept me interested throughout my entire read. This book is about survival, trauma. While you may not think so and want to give up hope, there is a HEA and if you ask me... I could go for a second book because I want more haha
*Please read the triggers before diving in. It is heavy on certain topics that may be sensitive or hard to read.*
July 19, 2025
Blood ties ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
In the middle of bum-fuck nowhere, Riley and her friends, May, Caleb, and Felix get stranded after their car broke down. In an attempt to find help, they walk to a bar and meet Knox Duvall. Knox took them back to his house where the group met Kai.
Riley immediately took an interest to Kai. As the night went on, Riley kept feeling more and more suspicious of Knox and Kai. After spending the night with Knox, the brother’s dad returned home and wasn’t happy to find strangers in his home. Things took a fast turn and Riley’s friends all got killed one by one by the brother’s dad and uncle. Riley tried to run but ended up getting caught and locked in the basement.
After spending numerous days and nights down there, Riley came up with a plan to make Kai fall in love with her in hopes of being freed from the horrors she was enduring.
Kai, being the sweet mess he is, did take high interest to her very quickly. He wanted to make things right for her but couldn’t come to terms with killing his family. After a fight broke out between him and Knox, they “decided” to share Riley. Knox would go down in the basement, forcing Kai to stay behind while he abused Riley.
Riley and Kai were building a relationship and she saw herself falling for him but kept denying the truth to herself. In the end, the Duvall family had different plans for Riley and Kai did what he could to stop them.
This story was definitely captivating and emotional, one of my favorite reads of the year. As you read you’ll learn more about Riley and Kai’s relationship and how it unfolds. There were some plot twists I DID NOT see coming.
Release date: July 19, 2025.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
In the middle of bum-fuck nowhere, Riley and her friends, May, Caleb, and Felix get stranded after their car broke down. In an attempt to find help, they walk to a bar and meet Knox Duvall. Knox took them back to his house where the group met Kai.
Riley immediately took an interest to Kai. As the night went on, Riley kept feeling more and more suspicious of Knox and Kai. After spending the night with Knox, the brother’s dad returned home and wasn’t happy to find strangers in his home. Things took a fast turn and Riley’s friends all got killed one by one by the brother’s dad and uncle. Riley tried to run but ended up getting caught and locked in the basement.
After spending numerous days and nights down there, Riley came up with a plan to make Kai fall in love with her in hopes of being freed from the horrors she was enduring.
Kai, being the sweet mess he is, did take high interest to her very quickly. He wanted to make things right for her but couldn’t come to terms with killing his family. After a fight broke out between him and Knox, they “decided” to share Riley. Knox would go down in the basement, forcing Kai to stay behind while he abused Riley.
Riley and Kai were building a relationship and she saw herself falling for him but kept denying the truth to herself. In the end, the Duvall family had different plans for Riley and Kai did what he could to stop them.
This story was definitely captivating and emotional, one of my favorite reads of the year. As you read you’ll learn more about Riley and Kai’s relationship and how it unfolds. There were some plot twists I DID NOT see coming.
Release date: July 19, 2025.
July 12, 2025
I enjoyed this story so much. It gave a Captured meets Bates Motel feel. From the moment Knox is introduced i knew he was gonna be trouble but you know we usually go for the bad boy. Riley and her friends need to have their car fixed so they can continue on their trip. Knox is the mechanic contacted. With no place to stay the group goes with Knox to his home and things take a bad turn. Kai is Knox's little brother who instantly falls for Riley.
From the first interaction between the brothers I disliked Knox. I dont usually like the nice shy guy like Kai but I did like him. I did figure Kai's mom was a victim of their fathers but everything that happened i didn't see coming. It's not super steamy in my opinion but the thrill of it all kept me wrapped up in it and interested.
I cant wait to see what comes next from Isabella Black.
From the first interaction between the brothers I disliked Knox. I dont usually like the nice shy guy like Kai but I did like him. I did figure Kai's mom was a victim of their fathers but everything that happened i didn't see coming. It's not super steamy in my opinion but the thrill of it all kept me wrapped up in it and interested.
I cant wait to see what comes next from Isabella Black.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2025
4⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Let me start by saying this was an ARC, and I’m leaving my honest review. Wow—this book was way darker than I expected. Please check trigger warnings before diving in, as it includes unaliving, graphic violence, sexual assault, including grape and more.
That being said, the writing itself was strong—definitely one of the better ARCs I’ve read. The prose was vivid and descriptive, and the characters were crafted in a way that made their pain, desperation, and turmoil feel very real.
The ending genuinely shocked me. Riley’s final decision was heartbreaking but also made sense given how deeply her experiences changed her. I can only imagine how hard it would be to live through what she endured. I really hope Isabella continues this story with a second book—I need to see where this journey leads.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Let me start by saying this was an ARC, and I’m leaving my honest review. Wow—this book was way darker than I expected. Please check trigger warnings before diving in, as it includes unaliving, graphic violence, sexual assault, including grape and more.
That being said, the writing itself was strong—definitely one of the better ARCs I’ve read. The prose was vivid and descriptive, and the characters were crafted in a way that made their pain, desperation, and turmoil feel very real.
The ending genuinely shocked me. Riley’s final decision was heartbreaking but also made sense given how deeply her experiences changed her. I can only imagine how hard it would be to live through what she endured. I really hope Isabella continues this story with a second book—I need to see where this journey leads.
July 9, 2025
Thanks to BookFunnel for this free ARC!
This book took me on a wild ride and gave me a great sense of Texas Chainsaw Massacre vibes. Black does a great job, in comparison to other dark romances I've read, to make a truly sympathetic love interest who does do horrible things without it being 'heroic' and realistic portrayals of domestic abuse.
The twists are great, but I wish there was a little more depth to Knox and Kai's father and uncle. We know they struggle to get by in the middle of nowhere but where/why/how this cycle of abuse started isn't gone into much and would have made these two characters seem more fleshed out and imposing.
Otherwise, this was a great time and I devoured it in a day!
This book took me on a wild ride and gave me a great sense of Texas Chainsaw Massacre vibes. Black does a great job, in comparison to other dark romances I've read, to make a truly sympathetic love interest who does do horrible things without it being 'heroic' and realistic portrayals of domestic abuse.
The twists are great, but I wish there was a little more depth to Knox and Kai's father and uncle. We know they struggle to get by in the middle of nowhere but where/why/how this cycle of abuse started isn't gone into much and would have made these two characters seem more fleshed out and imposing.
Otherwise, this was a great time and I devoured it in a day!
July 19, 2025
ARC Read Review: I got Texas Chainsaw Massacre vibes in this book and as a horror movie lover, I enjoyed that. I really enjoyed this book. I wish Knox’ character were a little more fleshed out. You can tell he loved his brother, even though the way he showed it was screwy.
You really feel a lot of Kai’s struggle with the situation and how he’s battling loyalty to his family with his desire for Riley and to do the right thing. I also like Riley’s struggle between getting comfortable and wanting to leave. Gaining feelings for one of her captors and then remembering she’s a captive. Trying to set boundaries and then breaking them herself. The anxiety I had in the last 25% of the book 🫣 It’s intense. This book is very dark, so check the triggers.
You really feel a lot of Kai’s struggle with the situation and how he’s battling loyalty to his family with his desire for Riley and to do the right thing. I also like Riley’s struggle between getting comfortable and wanting to leave. Gaining feelings for one of her captors and then remembering she’s a captive. Trying to set boundaries and then breaking them herself. The anxiety I had in the last 25% of the book 🫣 It’s intense. This book is very dark, so check the triggers.
July 20, 2025
@isabellablackauthor will be getting a bill from my therapist for this whirlwind of a novel! The absolute rollercoaster of emotions she puts you through when reading this, wheeeeeew *insert SpongeBob breathing heavy meme*
I had no idea where this story was going till it happened. Was Riley going to die? Kai? Was Knox good after all? There were so many questions you thought you had the answers for, then the novel took a sharp right turn on ya!
Who knew you could absolutely despise yet love a character so much?! All three main characters were so well written, that turmoil they all went through, just clings to you.
If I could rate it six stars, I would!
Blood Ties is available now! Don’t waste any time and grab your copy now!
https://amzn.to/3GItOzH
I had no idea where this story was going till it happened. Was Riley going to die? Kai? Was Knox good after all? There were so many questions you thought you had the answers for, then the novel took a sharp right turn on ya!
Who knew you could absolutely despise yet love a character so much?! All three main characters were so well written, that turmoil they all went through, just clings to you.
If I could rate it six stars, I would!
Blood Ties is available now! Don’t waste any time and grab your copy now!
https://amzn.to/3GItOzH
July 12, 2025
ADDICTED. That's all I can really say is that I'm addicted! The way this story had me feeling every emotion every other 5 seconds but I would reread it again for eternity. Kai and Riley and Knox...are all my fucking babies. I truly believe Isabella has a remarkable freaking talent cuz the way I saw this all as a movie and I felt everything each character felt is insane but so awesome. I am so thankful and happy I was able to arc read this. I will recommend it to my dying breath because this is one of my new favorite reads and I am not going to shut up about it. It's dark, twisted and an emotionally heavy read but I love it regardless. 🖤
July 16, 2025
ARC Read
I really liked this book in general, but I was expecting it to be more horror. The quick possessiveness from Knox and the slow build from Kai is like you have the two sides of the same coin in the interactions that Riley has with the brothers. Blood Ties gave me a feeling at the beginning like it was going to be a Texas Chainsaw Massacre with a side of love but it definitely shot off from that once we were more into the thick of it. The relationship that Riley and Kai end up having could completely be thought of as Stockholm Syndrome but also not because they are both trapped in different ways.
I really liked this book in general, but I was expecting it to be more horror. The quick possessiveness from Knox and the slow build from Kai is like you have the two sides of the same coin in the interactions that Riley has with the brothers. Blood Ties gave me a feeling at the beginning like it was going to be a Texas Chainsaw Massacre with a side of love but it definitely shot off from that once we were more into the thick of it. The relationship that Riley and Kai end up having could completely be thought of as Stockholm Syndrome but also not because they are both trapped in different ways.
July 17, 2025
Rating 4.75/5
This book was a rollercoaster ride! It started off with a simple roadtrip to a music festival … who would have thought things could end so differently. This book was fast paced but gave you everything you needed to fully grasp the gravity of the situation Riley and Kai found themselves in. Although Knox definitely had a different way of showing it underneath it all he really did love his brother. The author did a great job of providing enough details so that you had a mental image of the scenes before you without making them overly grotesque.
Thank you Isabella for the arc copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.💜
This book was a rollercoaster ride! It started off with a simple roadtrip to a music festival … who would have thought things could end so differently. This book was fast paced but gave you everything you needed to fully grasp the gravity of the situation Riley and Kai found themselves in. Although Knox definitely had a different way of showing it underneath it all he really did love his brother. The author did a great job of providing enough details so that you had a mental image of the scenes before you without making them overly grotesque.
Thank you Isabella for the arc copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.💜
July 7, 2025
I had the opportunity to read this book and enjoyed it. It kept me interested from the first page and there were no slow parts in the story at all. It’s survival, horror and a little sad in many parts but the main character, Riley, is a survivor you can’t help but want the best for despite her horrible situation. Two brothers forced by family to commit crimes and keep secrets to survive their own hell. There are many disturbing parts to this book and tells a really good story of survival, love and growth.
July 19, 2025
My first Slasher Dark Romance and I have to say I was shocked!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! And it was a good mix of House of a Thousand Corpses mixed with your favorite dark romance
3.5⭐️
Only cause I felt I needed more of the healing journey after!
Book was well written and didn't slow down from front to back.
TROPES:
-virgin MMC
-lust triangle
-strong FMC
-tricks her capture to fall but falls as well
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS.
This book contains heavy triggers including noncon, abuse, Stockholm syndrome, forced pregnancy.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! And it was a good mix of House of a Thousand Corpses mixed with your favorite dark romance
3.5⭐️
Only cause I felt I needed more of the healing journey after!
Book was well written and didn't slow down from front to back.
TROPES:
-virgin MMC
-lust triangle
-strong FMC
-tricks her capture to fall but falls as well
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS.
This book contains heavy triggers including noncon, abuse, Stockholm syndrome, forced pregnancy.
July 19, 2025
Blood Ties was a wild ride from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down! It blends dark romance with horror in such a gripping way—think Criminal Minds meets erotic thriller.
Riley’s story had me on edge the whole time, trapped in a farmhouse with killers, and somehow I even found myself rooting for Kai, the morally gray love interest. The tension, the danger, the writing—everything was so good.
It’s definitely not light reading—please check trigger warnings—but if you love dark romance with depth and intensity, this is 100% for you.
Riley’s story had me on edge the whole time, trapped in a farmhouse with killers, and somehow I even found myself rooting for Kai, the morally gray love interest. The tension, the danger, the writing—everything was so good.
It’s definitely not light reading—please check trigger warnings—but if you love dark romance with depth and intensity, this is 100% for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
Please check TW before reading this book. It felt more like a pitch black genre. I love pitch black so this was right up my alley.
You will love Riley. A girl trying to outwit, be tough, be soft, trying to survive the situation she's been thrown into.
Kai... come here so I can give you hugs 😭 I felt so bad for Kai but also frustrated lol
Knox was a jerk 😡 that is all I am gonna say!!
There is a HEA, so you can count on that!
This book is a must read if you like pitch black, detailed plot, characters, and a HEA 🩷
You will love Riley. A girl trying to outwit, be tough, be soft, trying to survive the situation she's been thrown into.
Kai... come here so I can give you hugs 😭 I felt so bad for Kai but also frustrated lol
Knox was a jerk 😡 that is all I am gonna say!!
There is a HEA, so you can count on that!
This book is a must read if you like pitch black, detailed plot, characters, and a HEA 🩷
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