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All I know is this prison cell.
All I do is the bidding of my masters.
They call me a bloodhound and treat me like the dog I am.
When I finally get the chance to escape, I take it. I travel far away from this wretched place to create a new life where no one owns me.
But just when I think I’m free, I fall into another man’s trap.
Except… this one is different.
He treats me like a human, not a beast.
He saves me from the brink of death and gives me time to heal, a new name, and a new purpose.
He teaches me how to live outside of a cage.
But he doesn’t know what kind of dangerous creature he’s let into his home. A creature with tainted blood, a creature that’s more animal than man…
Especially when it rains.
Bad Blood is a full-length, dual POV MM dark dystopian romance as part of the 1NF3CTION shared world collaboration. Each book is a standalone containing themes and situations not intended for readers under the age of 18. Both characters are consenting adults.
All I do is the bidding of my masters.
They call me a bloodhound and treat me like the dog I am.
When I finally get the chance to escape, I take it. I travel far away from this wretched place to create a new life where no one owns me.
But just when I think I’m free, I fall into another man’s trap.
Except… this one is different.
He treats me like a human, not a beast.
He saves me from the brink of death and gives me time to heal, a new name, and a new purpose.
He teaches me how to live outside of a cage.
But he doesn’t know what kind of dangerous creature he’s let into his home. A creature with tainted blood, a creature that’s more animal than man…
Especially when it rains.
Bad Blood is a full-length, dual POV MM dark dystopian romance as part of the 1NF3CTION shared world collaboration. Each book is a standalone containing themes and situations not intended for readers under the age of 18. Both characters are consenting adults.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2025
32 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 27, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
If you, like me, love zombies and anything apocalyptic with a dash of mortal peril, but where the focus is on a sweet relationship, look no further. The vibe might be dark-ish, but the connection between Cain and Bowen is precious and sweet, and it's built on slow and genuine trust. The way Cain comforts Bowen in difficult moments and carries him around 24/7 is probably the cutest thing ever (did someone say favorite microtrope?)
Anyway. Obviously it's a zombie apocalypse so there's a certain level of horror and gore, but the focus is on Bowen's escape from captivity and healing. The only thing he's ever wanted is just one second of freedom and feeling the sun on his face, and seeing him find that was lovely. I'm also just forever weak for a ferocious little dude who actually just wants to be treated like a princess (even if he doesn't know it and might stab you a little first).
Thank you to the author for the beta copy.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Apocalyptic
Zombie outbreak
Big size difference
Hurt/comfort
Set in the future
Grumpy/sunshine
Touch him and 💀
Dark-ish romance
Co-dependent MCs
Dystopian
'Teach me'
Virgin MCs
Heterochromia
Bowen is carried everywhere
Protective big boy
Feral little guy
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Shooting off early (hot)
Dual virgins
Erotically charged dip in the river
Coming untouched
They both finger him at the same time
Coming a lot
Hands-free orgasms
Cum = lube
Keeping him stuffed after
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mention of suicide (unknown character, off page, past)
Alcohol consumption (SC, intoxicated)
Details of long-term captivity (as child and adult)
Eating bugs on page
Mentions of past forced medical experimentation and abuse of MC
Gun violence
On-page death of side characters (graphic)
Graphic violence
MC injured and severely ill on page
Minor on-page medical treatment
Suicidal ideation/thoughts/planning (MC, on page)
On-page attempted suicide (stopped before MC is able to do any serious harm)
Death of parent (past)
Explicit sexual content
Pet dog kicked by bad guy (no injury)
On-page dismemberment of bad guy
Detailed past physical and verbal abuse of MC by SCs
MC injuring other MC on page (somewhat unintentional, not in complete mental control)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Post-apocalyptic romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 23 and 24
Series: Standalone, shared universe
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 235
Happy ending: Yes
The loneliness was a parasite, climbing into me and taking control. No, it was a virus. Like the one that plagued mankind. It burrowed into veins and vessels and cells and destroyed them from the inside out. But unlike the virus, it was a slow death. A necrosis of the spirit.
There was a softness in his gaze that deeply unsettled me.
“Alright, mission accomplished. Ready to head back?” I nodded. When he held his arms open, I walked into them and let him pick me up.
I brought my gaze back to his, then got distracted by the pink on his prominent cheekbones. He really was very nice to look at. I hadn’t seen a lot of pretty things in my life, but he was without a doubt the prettiest.
He wasn’t a monster; far from it. He was an angel. The angry kind. But an angel, nonetheless.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
If you, like me, love zombies and anything apocalyptic with a dash of mortal peril, but where the focus is on a sweet relationship, look no further. The vibe might be dark-ish, but the connection between Cain and Bowen is precious and sweet, and it's built on slow and genuine trust. The way Cain comforts Bowen in difficult moments and carries him around 24/7 is probably the cutest thing ever (did someone say favorite microtrope?)
Anyway. Obviously it's a zombie apocalypse so there's a certain level of horror and gore, but the focus is on Bowen's escape from captivity and healing. The only thing he's ever wanted is just one second of freedom and feeling the sun on his face, and seeing him find that was lovely. I'm also just forever weak for a ferocious little dude who actually just wants to be treated like a princess (even if he doesn't know it and might stab you a little first).
Thank you to the author for the beta copy.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Apocalyptic
Zombie outbreak
Big size difference
Hurt/comfort
Set in the future
Grumpy/sunshine
Touch him and 💀
Dark-ish romance
Co-dependent MCs
Dystopian
'Teach me'
Virgin MCs
Heterochromia
Bowen is carried everywhere
Protective big boy
Feral little guy
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Shooting off early (hot)
Dual virgins
Erotically charged dip in the river
Coming untouched
They both finger him at the same time
Coming a lot
Hands-free orgasms
Cum = lube
Keeping him stuffed after
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mention of suicide (unknown character, off page, past)
Alcohol consumption (SC, intoxicated)
Details of long-term captivity (as child and adult)
Eating bugs on page
Mentions of past forced medical experimentation and abuse of MC
Gun violence
On-page death of side characters (graphic)
Graphic violence
MC injured and severely ill on page
Minor on-page medical treatment
Suicidal ideation/thoughts/planning (MC, on page)
On-page attempted suicide (stopped before MC is able to do any serious harm)
Death of parent (past)
Explicit sexual content
Pet dog kicked by bad guy (no injury)
On-page dismemberment of bad guy
Detailed past physical and verbal abuse of MC by SCs
MC injuring other MC on page (somewhat unintentional, not in complete mental control)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Post-apocalyptic romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 23 and 24
Series: Standalone, shared universe
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 235
Happy ending: Yes
The loneliness was a parasite, climbing into me and taking control. No, it was a virus. Like the one that plagued mankind. It burrowed into veins and vessels and cells and destroyed them from the inside out. But unlike the virus, it was a slow death. A necrosis of the spirit.
There was a softness in his gaze that deeply unsettled me.
“Alright, mission accomplished. Ready to head back?” I nodded. When he held his arms open, I walked into them and let him pick me up.
I brought my gaze back to his, then got distracted by the pink on his prominent cheekbones. He really was very nice to look at. I hadn’t seen a lot of pretty things in my life, but he was without a doubt the prettiest.
He wasn’t a monster; far from it. He was an angel. The angry kind. But an angel, nonetheless.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
January 23, 2026
~4.25~
The cover doesn't fit the book at all. Who the hell is that dude, and what's up with the sculpted gym muscles, modern hoodie, and artfully blood-splattered brick walls?
Also, the world building is non-existent. But since this is a "shared universe" co-op, I can't blame the author; that's par for the course with multi-author collaborations.
Shoving those details aside, Bad Blood, my first read by Lyla Dane, is just about perfect. The overwhelming brutality of the first two chapters dissipates into one of the most endearing hurt/comfort MM romance books I've ever read.
I adored the MCs: Cain's strength and kindness, and Three's resilience and courage.
This is a quiet story: two men, both broken and lonely in different ways, Luna the dog, apples, clean skin, the best surprises, and an enduring (always & forever) kind of obsessive love.
And it's the quiet that brings passion and revenge, peace and freedom.
P.S. Luna was introduced as a character only to be mostly ignored. She was never fed, cared for, or loved on page. Please don't treat animals as props; they are living beings who require time and attention.
The cover doesn't fit the book at all. Who the hell is that dude, and what's up with the sculpted gym muscles, modern hoodie, and artfully blood-splattered brick walls?
Also, the world building is non-existent. But since this is a "shared universe" co-op, I can't blame the author; that's par for the course with multi-author collaborations.
Shoving those details aside, Bad Blood, my first read by Lyla Dane, is just about perfect. The overwhelming brutality of the first two chapters dissipates into one of the most endearing hurt/comfort MM romance books I've ever read.
I adored the MCs: Cain's strength and kindness, and Three's resilience and courage.
This is a quiet story: two men, both broken and lonely in different ways, Luna the dog, apples, clean skin, the best surprises, and an enduring (always & forever) kind of obsessive love.
And it's the quiet that brings passion and revenge, peace and freedom.
"Your bottom lip is really fat."
"Fat ... ?
I nodded ... I wanted to bite it. Taste it.
P.S. Luna was introduced as a character only to be mostly ignored. She was never fed, cared for, or loved on page. Please don't treat animals as props; they are living beings who require time and attention.
October 28, 2025
OH MY GOD.
10/10 NO NOTES.
🥰C+B🥰
..Except, give me more books like this!
Gah, I loved them so much and loved how much they loved each other, how they saved each other. The best and sweetest MCs, so perfect for each other. 😭
I was a ball of anxiety at the start and before I knew it I was looking at that 70% and being upset that I wouldnt have much more of them, I didn't want it to end! 🥺
10/10 NO NOTES.
🥰C+B🥰
..Except, give me more books like this!
Gah, I loved them so much and loved how much they loved each other, how they saved each other. The best and sweetest MCs, so perfect for each other. 😭
I was a ball of anxiety at the start and before I knew it I was looking at that 70% and being upset that I wouldnt have much more of them, I didn't want it to end! 🥺
November 5, 2025
4.5✨
🍏 Dystopian / Zombies
💘 Size difference
🍏 MC that loves to be carried
💘 Touch him and 💀
🍏 Grumpy / Sunshine
💘 Protective / Possessive / Obsessive
🍏 Feral MC
💘 Hurt / Comfort
🍏 “Teach me”
Two things immediately caught my attention: Lyla Dane, obviously, and the mention of an MC who loves to be carried—because come on… how fucking cute is that???
In a world torn apart by infection and violence, a man who’s spent his entire life as a captive and experiment escapes in search of freedom. When he’s found by another survivor—someone strong, gentle, and willing to see him as human again—the fragile bond they form becomes both a lifeline and a danger.
Cain and Three/Bowen were absolutely precious. Cain, the gentle giant reprogrammed to protect, and Bowen, the feral baby who just wants to be held and spoiled. When they started touching each other—simple, hesitant touches—it melted my heart completely. 🫠
I really loved their sexual connection. Their need for each other was intense and scorching. Bowen basically goes into a heat wave whenever it rains because of his blood condition and, well… sex makes it all better. Yum yum HOT. 🔥
Also, can we talk about how prepared Cain was? Like—how the hell did he know what prep was? What kind of “educational” books did his dad give him? 👀 Because knowing to use oil during anal sex? That’s some top-tier survival knowledge right there!
The world-building was vivid. Even though they only visited one city, it was so well described that you could feel the desolation and eerie emptiness of the world beyond. The bunker, especially, felt both suffocating and safe at the same time. Honestly, as someone not very social, I started imagining myself living there quite happily… though maybe not only eating apples 😅. Plot-wise, it’s very focused on them—the emotional connection takes centre stage.
The shift from “I need to run” to “I need to taste you” was a little quick, but I didn’t even care. Their chemistry made it work. Some inconsistencies popped up (Bowen didn’t know what a mirror or dog was but could list half a furniture catalog), but honestly? I wasn’t bothered. These two deserved every star. ✨
I just wish it had been a bit longer—some scenes like their first night sharing a bed or learning to read together could’ve been shown instead of told.
Their love felt raw, tender, and oddly pure amid all the ruin. They found happiness in their little corner of the world—and it was enough. He was enough. And lets all melt at that C+B 💘 carved in the tree🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Gore and graphic violence (on page)
Explicit consensual sexual content
Suicidal ideation, thoughts, and planning (on page, both MCs)
Suicide attempt (on page, stopped before harm occurs)
Mention of suicide of an unknown side character
Frequent adult language and profanity
Gun violence
Deaths of side characters (on page, graphic)
Mentions of past physical and verbal abuse of a main character
Main character kept in captivity for most of his life; forced to wear a muzzle and collar
Mentions of past forced medical experimentation and abuse of a main character
Alcohol consumption (once, side character)
Physical altercations between main and side characters (on page)
Main character physically attacks side characters (explicit)
Main character injured and severely ill (on page)
Minor on-page medical treatment
Main character struggles with excessive aggression and extreme sexual desire (“when the rain comes”)
Main character attacks the other main character due to infected condition (on page; minimal harm)
Dog owned by main character attacks a side character; is kicked but unharmed (on page, once)
Main character eats bugs (on page)
❣️Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Sharing: No
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: Strict roles
POV: 1st person (dual)
Format: All books are in a shared universe, but all can be read as a standalone
Ending: HEA
Angst Level: Low / Medium
Spice Level: Medium
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Mutual
“Life is precious. Protect it.”
🍏 Dystopian / Zombies
💘 Size difference
🍏 MC that loves to be carried
💘 Touch him and 💀
🍏 Grumpy / Sunshine
💘 Protective / Possessive / Obsessive
🍏 Feral MC
💘 Hurt / Comfort
🍏 “Teach me”
Two things immediately caught my attention: Lyla Dane, obviously, and the mention of an MC who loves to be carried—because come on… how fucking cute is that???
In a world torn apart by infection and violence, a man who’s spent his entire life as a captive and experiment escapes in search of freedom. When he’s found by another survivor—someone strong, gentle, and willing to see him as human again—the fragile bond they form becomes both a lifeline and a danger.
Cain and Three/Bowen were absolutely precious. Cain, the gentle giant reprogrammed to protect, and Bowen, the feral baby who just wants to be held and spoiled. When they started touching each other—simple, hesitant touches—it melted my heart completely. 🫠
I really loved their sexual connection. Their need for each other was intense and scorching. Bowen basically goes into a heat wave whenever it rains because of his blood condition and, well… sex makes it all better. Yum yum HOT. 🔥
Also, can we talk about how prepared Cain was? Like—how the hell did he know what prep was? What kind of “educational” books did his dad give him? 👀 Because knowing to use oil during anal sex? That’s some top-tier survival knowledge right there!
The world-building was vivid. Even though they only visited one city, it was so well described that you could feel the desolation and eerie emptiness of the world beyond. The bunker, especially, felt both suffocating and safe at the same time. Honestly, as someone not very social, I started imagining myself living there quite happily… though maybe not only eating apples 😅. Plot-wise, it’s very focused on them—the emotional connection takes centre stage.
The shift from “I need to run” to “I need to taste you” was a little quick, but I didn’t even care. Their chemistry made it work. Some inconsistencies popped up (Bowen didn’t know what a mirror or dog was but could list half a furniture catalog), but honestly? I wasn’t bothered. These two deserved every star. ✨
I just wish it had been a bit longer—some scenes like their first night sharing a bed or learning to read together could’ve been shown instead of told.
I’d found someone special.
He was eager and adorable, always positive and enthusiastic and unendingly curious.
A little tiny sun that had wandered into my home, lighting up every dark corner.
He was just…he was perfect.
I was going to protect him from now on. Give him everything he needed, everything he never had. Teach him everything he didn’t know.
He was mine.
Mine to protect, mine to cherish, mine to spoil.
“That means you’re mine. Only mine. Just for me.”
“That’s right. I’m all yours. Just for you.”
Their love felt raw, tender, and oddly pure amid all the ruin. They found happiness in their little corner of the world—and it was enough. He was enough. And lets all melt at that C+B 💘 carved in the tree🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
⚠️Author Content Warnings
Gore and graphic violence (on page)
Explicit consensual sexual content
Suicidal ideation, thoughts, and planning (on page, both MCs)
Suicide attempt (on page, stopped before harm occurs)
Mention of suicide of an unknown side character
Frequent adult language and profanity
Gun violence
Deaths of side characters (on page, graphic)
Mentions of past physical and verbal abuse of a main character
Main character kept in captivity for most of his life; forced to wear a muzzle and collar
Mentions of past forced medical experimentation and abuse of a main character
Alcohol consumption (once, side character)
Physical altercations between main and side characters (on page)
Main character physically attacks side characters (explicit)
Main character injured and severely ill (on page)
Minor on-page medical treatment
Main character struggles with excessive aggression and extreme sexual desire (“when the rain comes”)
Main character attacks the other main character due to infected condition (on page; minimal harm)
Dog owned by main character attacks a side character; is kicked but unharmed (on page, once)
Main character eats bugs (on page)
❣️Book Safety & Content
Cheating: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Sharing: No
Third-Act Breakup: No
Role Dynamics: Strict roles
POV: 1st person (dual)
Format: All books are in a shared universe, but all can be read as a standalone
Ending: HEA
Angst Level: Low / Medium
Spice Level: Medium
Communication: Some miscommunication
Pining: Mutual
December 17, 2025
Rating: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Cain and Bowen
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Cain and Bowen
October 28, 2025
5 ⭐
3 🌶️
Cain and Bowen are literally so freaking adorable. How can they be that adorable in a zombie dystopian setting?!
My heart broke over and over for Bowen. Everything he has endured was horrific. Bowen is a feral princess and I love him so much. Cain is just a sweet gentle giant who truly wants to help him.
This slow burn was sooooo freaking good. The devotion these two had for each other.
Lyla writes hurt/comfort like no other and this did not disappoint.
The best in the series, imo.
WHAT TO EXPECT
☣️Touch him and ☠️
☣️Hurt/Comfort
☣️"Teach me"
☣️Siz3 D!fference
☣️Grumpy/Sunshine
☣️Dystopian/Zombies
☣️Protective/Possessive/Obsessive MCs
☣️MC that loves to be carried
Cheating: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
3 🌶️
Cain and Bowen are literally so freaking adorable. How can they be that adorable in a zombie dystopian setting?!
My heart broke over and over for Bowen. Everything he has endured was horrific. Bowen is a feral princess and I love him so much. Cain is just a sweet gentle giant who truly wants to help him.
This slow burn was sooooo freaking good. The devotion these two had for each other.
Lyla writes hurt/comfort like no other and this did not disappoint.
The best in the series, imo.
WHAT TO EXPECT
☣️Touch him and ☠️
☣️Hurt/Comfort
☣️"Teach me"
☣️Siz3 D!fference
☣️Grumpy/Sunshine
☣️Dystopian/Zombies
☣️Protective/Possessive/Obsessive MCs
☣️MC that loves to be carried
Cheating: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
November 15, 2025
I don’t know how Lyla Dane does it. Her stories always leave me impacted at a deeper level, always drawing parallels to the world we live in the people and struggles we are surrounded by and the love we want to see heal them. Gosh, I am always in my feels and feeling super sappy after reading one of her stories.
While this one is set in the familair dystopian world ravaged by the red rain virus, a world inhabited by scare resources, survival and danger and the immune, the carriers and the infected, humanity’s perennially visible dichotomy of hope and despair, of gentleness and violence, of sacrifice and greed is more apparent than ever. The men who made Three first a subject and then a hound, took away his humanity made my blood boil, god even o fiction I was appalled at what people will do to people. Then there was Cain, Cain who named Bowen, Cain the Gentle Beautiful Giant who made Bowen free. Ah their story touched me deeply, their moments of connection, of learning to trust, of shared humour of fiery passion set ablaze just gave me everything. You know Bowen saved him too from the loneliness that was eroding him away.
That ending was EVERYTHING, I felt savage!
While this one is set in the familair dystopian world ravaged by the red rain virus, a world inhabited by scare resources, survival and danger and the immune, the carriers and the infected, humanity’s perennially visible dichotomy of hope and despair, of gentleness and violence, of sacrifice and greed is more apparent than ever. The men who made Three first a subject and then a hound, took away his humanity made my blood boil, god even o fiction I was appalled at what people will do to people. Then there was Cain, Cain who named Bowen, Cain the Gentle Beautiful Giant who made Bowen free. Ah their story touched me deeply, their moments of connection, of learning to trust, of shared humour of fiery passion set ablaze just gave me everything. You know Bowen saved him too from the loneliness that was eroding him away.
That ending was EVERYTHING, I felt savage!
October 31, 2025
4.25 stars
This was a much needed win after a string of mediocre reads for me. I wasn't sure about reading more books from this series but I like this author and I knew there was going to be a strong element of hurt/comfort and who can resist that? It wasn't quite perfect for me but really enjoyable nonetheless.
Three/Bowen spent his entire life in captivity and all he wanted was to experience freedom. He got his chance to escape but ended up gravely injured and in the care of Cain. He was, understandably, really wary of Cain at first. He kept expecting cruelty and was pretty stabby about it, to be honest. But I'm kind of obsessed with tiny guys who will claw you to death. He spent quite a lot of the book in survival mode - just a constant state of fight or flight. But once he accepted that Cain really was just trying to help him, I loved what he became then too. He was demanding and lacked any and all social graces. I know a lot of his actions came from a place of disregulated emotions and I shouldn't find it funny or endearing that a dude pulled his LI's hair because he doesn't know how to identify and express that he's embarrassed or doesn't understand something - but here we are. I loved him trying to remember to say "please" and use his words like Cain taught him. And I loved that he had no shame surrounding desire and frequently made Cain blush.
Cain was fucking adorable. The perfect combination of golden retriever and himbo energy - a sunshiny gentle giant who worshipped his spiky black cat. Cain had basically just been existing until Bowen stumbled onto his property. His dog, Luna, was pretty much all he was living for but once Bowen showed up, he became his new purpose. I loved that, while Cain was really competent in a lot of ways (especially in terms of survival), he had lived nearly as sheltered of a life as Bowen had - albeit in a totally different way. He was so patient and good with Bowen but was unsure a lot of the time and that felt a lot more realistic than if he had been perfect and confident, considering he hardly had any experience around other people, either. And I loved how flustered Bowen made him.
High five for a double virgin story. It's been a really long time since I've read one and that element was wonderful - especially since Bowen had no concept of shame or "decency". So fun. I loved that Bowen was bossy and kind of ran the show but he also liked being restrained by Cain which was a real show of trust from someone who had been held against their will their whole life. This had a lot of sexual components that I love - multiple orgasms, cum as lube, trying to hold back from orgasm, a bottom who loves to feel full, etc - but I do wish there had been at least one penetrative scene that WASN'T during the rains. I dunno, it bothered me slightly that the two penetrative scenes were only during the rains because, while hot, that lacked some intimacy since Bowen wasn't quite in his right mind.
I loved that Cain gave Bowen a name. And I loved him carrying Bowen around everywhere and generally just pampering him and caring for him in every possible way. It might have seemed unbalanced but Cain enjoyed taking care of him, it gave him purpose and made him feel good and useful. And Bowen eventually got to a place where he could give back to Cain as well.
Something that didn't quite work for me had to do with stuff Bowen didn't know. A lot of it made sense (of course he couldn't read or know what a snowglobe is) but he also didn't know what Luna was and, considering he was called a bloodhound it seemed strange that he wouldn't know what a dog was. Also, it's clear they went into cities and stores when he was a bloodhound and he knew what a stuffed animal was but not a book? I don't doubt that the brothers never had any around but the idea that he might never have come into contact with one at all or heard the word from either the scientists or the brothers or the other hounds, again, seems really unlikely.
I also felt like Cain's backstory was a little too shallow. I could've stood to learn more about his life with his father and how he grew up. Maybe not super important overall but it would have rounded him out a bit better for me.
All in all this was really good and I adored these MCs (bonus points for the HUGE size difference btw). I'll continue to read more Lyla Dane in the future. And maybe I'll try a few more of this series because I do actually like the zombie parts.
Nicknames: baby
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Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None
This was a much needed win after a string of mediocre reads for me. I wasn't sure about reading more books from this series but I like this author and I knew there was going to be a strong element of hurt/comfort and who can resist that? It wasn't quite perfect for me but really enjoyable nonetheless.
Three/Bowen spent his entire life in captivity and all he wanted was to experience freedom. He got his chance to escape but ended up gravely injured and in the care of Cain. He was, understandably, really wary of Cain at first. He kept expecting cruelty and was pretty stabby about it, to be honest. But I'm kind of obsessed with tiny guys who will claw you to death. He spent quite a lot of the book in survival mode - just a constant state of fight or flight. But once he accepted that Cain really was just trying to help him, I loved what he became then too. He was demanding and lacked any and all social graces. I know a lot of his actions came from a place of disregulated emotions and I shouldn't find it funny or endearing that a dude pulled his LI's hair because he doesn't know how to identify and express that he's embarrassed or doesn't understand something - but here we are. I loved him trying to remember to say "please" and use his words like Cain taught him. And I loved that he had no shame surrounding desire and frequently made Cain blush.
Cain was fucking adorable. The perfect combination of golden retriever and himbo energy - a sunshiny gentle giant who worshipped his spiky black cat. Cain had basically just been existing until Bowen stumbled onto his property. His dog, Luna, was pretty much all he was living for but once Bowen showed up, he became his new purpose. I loved that, while Cain was really competent in a lot of ways (especially in terms of survival), he had lived nearly as sheltered of a life as Bowen had - albeit in a totally different way. He was so patient and good with Bowen but was unsure a lot of the time and that felt a lot more realistic than if he had been perfect and confident, considering he hardly had any experience around other people, either. And I loved how flustered Bowen made him.
High five for a double virgin story. It's been a really long time since I've read one and that element was wonderful - especially since Bowen had no concept of shame or "decency". So fun. I loved that Bowen was bossy and kind of ran the show but he also liked being restrained by Cain which was a real show of trust from someone who had been held against their will their whole life. This had a lot of sexual components that I love - multiple orgasms, cum as lube, trying to hold back from orgasm, a bottom who loves to feel full, etc - but I do wish there had been at least one penetrative scene that WASN'T during the rains. I dunno, it bothered me slightly that the two penetrative scenes were only during the rains because, while hot, that lacked some intimacy since Bowen wasn't quite in his right mind.
I loved that Cain gave Bowen a name. And I loved him carrying Bowen around everywhere and generally just pampering him and caring for him in every possible way. It might have seemed unbalanced but Cain enjoyed taking care of him, it gave him purpose and made him feel good and useful. And Bowen eventually got to a place where he could give back to Cain as well.
Something that didn't quite work for me had to do with stuff Bowen didn't know. A lot of it made sense (of course he couldn't read or know what a snowglobe is) but he also didn't know what Luna was and, considering he was called a bloodhound it seemed strange that he wouldn't know what a dog was. Also, it's clear they went into cities and stores when he was a bloodhound and he knew what a stuffed animal was but not a book? I don't doubt that the brothers never had any around but the idea that he might never have come into contact with one at all or heard the word from either the scientists or the brothers or the other hounds, again, seems really unlikely.
I also felt like Cain's backstory was a little too shallow. I could've stood to learn more about his life with his father and how he grew up. Maybe not super important overall but it would have rounded him out a bit better for me.
All in all this was really good and I adored these MCs (bonus points for the HUGE size difference btw). I'll continue to read more Lyla Dane in the future. And maybe I'll try a few more of this series because I do actually like the zombie parts.
Nicknames: baby
The loneliness was a parasite, climbing into me and taking control. No, it was a virus. Like the one that plagued mankind. It burrowed into veins and vessels and cells and destroyed them from the inside out. But unlike the virus, it was a slow death. A necrosis of the spirit.
I hadn’t seen a lot of pretty things in my life, but he was without a doubt the prettiest.
But I didn’t find his size intimidating, not at all. It was only reassuring. It made me feel safe, like he’d use it to protect me, never to hurt me.
He wasn’t a monster; far from it. He was an angel. The angry kind. But an angel, nonetheless.
“Show me who I belong to, Bow.” “Me,” I growled, leaning down and grabbing his face, taking his fat bottom lip between my teeth. He slid his hand down my back and laughed. “Yeah, you. But I want you to show me. Show me who I was made for.”
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: None
January 8, 2026
I found the relationship between the main couple truly beautiful. They both were so cute and their connection feel genuine (such a good stranger-to-lovers dynamic execution). I enjoyed the read for the most part: The book is coherent, featuring strong character development and depth, economical prose, and a fast pace that kept me completely hooked. Still, I felt the final 20% of the story faltered.
The introduction of the dramatic twist near the end didn't do much to shift the MC's dynamic and was resolved far too quickly. Besides, the final explicit scenes didn't add anything to them, imo, so I ended up skipping them. Despite these minor issues toward the end, it remains a solid, well-written story that I’m glad I read.
The introduction of the dramatic twist near the end didn't do much to shift the MC's dynamic and was resolved far too quickly. Besides, the final explicit scenes didn't add anything to them, imo, so I ended up skipping them. Despite these minor issues toward the end, it remains a solid, well-written story that I’m glad I read.
January 4, 2026
5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
lyla dane can do no wrong and this was FUCKING CUTE.
zombie apocalypse but make it hurt/comfort to the nth degree. i was so obsessed with cain and bowen. i would honestly read a whole entire other book about them.
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
lyla dane can do no wrong and this was FUCKING CUTE.
zombie apocalypse but make it hurt/comfort to the nth degree. i was so obsessed with cain and bowen. i would honestly read a whole entire other book about them.
October 27, 2025
I knew once I saw the tropes of this book I wanted to read. This is such a different vibe for me, I don't usually read dyspotian related books but this one def caught my eye and kept my attention. I'm hoping eventually to read the other books of this series, love Cain and Bowen!!!
January 11, 2026
Fue un libro entretenido. Me gustó el ambiente apocalíptico, por eso pienso que hubiera estado bien más escenas de los protas con los infectados, y que el "conflicto" no se hubiera resuelto tan rápido, y bueno lo de la lluvia me pareció bastante risible.
La relación de los protagonistas fue muy bonita!!
La relación de los protagonistas fue muy bonita!!
January 3, 2026
3⭐️ Intriguing and unique zombie post-apocalyptic plot. The idea of a red rain storm making the MC go feral and the only cure is sex… it’s sort of reminiscent of the heat cycles you find in omegaverse. I didn’t get enough chemistry between the characters though because the book was short and heavy on the survivalist plot, but the writing was decent so I’m tempted to try another book by this author.
October 29, 2025
This was adorable and gory and somehow those things worked together to make a great book.
October 31, 2025
Bad Blood by Lyla Dane is a hauntingly tender MM dark dystopian romance that gripped me from the first page and didn’t let go. Part of the 1NF3CTION shared world, this dual POV story dives deep into trauma, healing, and the kind of love that rebuilds a soul.
Three has only ever known pain, obedience, and captivity. Labeled a bloodhound and treated like a beast, his escape from the prison that shaped him is the first act of defiance in a life devoid of freedom. But freedom is complicated and when he stumbles into Cain’s isolated world, he’s not sure if he’s found safety or another kind of trap.
Cain, who’s been alone since his father’s death, is starved for connection but gentle in his care. He doesn’t see Three as a monster. He sees a man, wounded, wary, and worthy of love. He gives Three a name, a place to rest, and the space to heal. And slowly, achingly, Three begins to trust.
This story is a masterclass in hurt/comfort. Watching Cain coax Three out of his shell, teaching him how to live outside of a cage, was both heartbreaking and beautiful. Their dynamic is electric. Cain is sunshine with a protective streak a mile wide, and Three is all sharp edges and vulnerability. The slow burn is chef’s kiss—especially when the red rain hits and Three’s frenzy threatens to consume him. Cain doesn’t flinch. He stays. He helps. And when they finally cross that line into intimacy? The spice is tender, raw, and absolutely delicious!
I was wrecked for Three—his pain, his confusion, his desperate need to be seen. But Cain’s unwavering care had me grinning like a fool. Their bond is obsessive, possessive, and deeply emotional in all the best ways.
Vibes:
• Forced Proximity
• Touch him and di️e
• Hurt/Comfort
• "Teach me"
• Size Difference
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Dystopian/Zombies
• Protective/Possessive/Obsessive MCs
• MC that loves to be carried
• Slow Burn
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 3 🌶
Three has only ever known pain, obedience, and captivity. Labeled a bloodhound and treated like a beast, his escape from the prison that shaped him is the first act of defiance in a life devoid of freedom. But freedom is complicated and when he stumbles into Cain’s isolated world, he’s not sure if he’s found safety or another kind of trap.
Cain, who’s been alone since his father’s death, is starved for connection but gentle in his care. He doesn’t see Three as a monster. He sees a man, wounded, wary, and worthy of love. He gives Three a name, a place to rest, and the space to heal. And slowly, achingly, Three begins to trust.
This story is a masterclass in hurt/comfort. Watching Cain coax Three out of his shell, teaching him how to live outside of a cage, was both heartbreaking and beautiful. Their dynamic is electric. Cain is sunshine with a protective streak a mile wide, and Three is all sharp edges and vulnerability. The slow burn is chef’s kiss—especially when the red rain hits and Three’s frenzy threatens to consume him. Cain doesn’t flinch. He stays. He helps. And when they finally cross that line into intimacy? The spice is tender, raw, and absolutely delicious!
I was wrecked for Three—his pain, his confusion, his desperate need to be seen. But Cain’s unwavering care had me grinning like a fool. Their bond is obsessive, possessive, and deeply emotional in all the best ways.
Vibes:
• Forced Proximity
• Touch him and di️e
• Hurt/Comfort
• "Teach me"
• Size Difference
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Dystopian/Zombies
• Protective/Possessive/Obsessive MCs
• MC that loves to be carried
• Slow Burn
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: 3 🌶
October 25, 2025
ARC Review
5⭐
What an emotional read! I was not prepared for such a sweet yet heavy book. 😭😭💙
.
.
"I love you more than life. There has never been a day I regretted finding you and bringing you home with me. You are my entire world, but I hope I'm not yours, that you can move on from my passing and create a new world."
.
.
Cain is such a gentle giant, and the way he took care of Bowen? Precious. 🥹💙 He never gave up trying, and that’s what I admired the most about him. 🥹❤️
.
.
"Anything he wanted, I'd give him — even if it meant giving him every part of myself. He could have it all."
.
.
Bowen, oh sweet little Bowen. 🥺 I don’t even know where to start. Saying that he had a rough start in life would be an understatement. 💔💔💔
Everything that happened to him — what cruel people did to him, what they made him believe he was — none of it was deserved. 😭
He grew up surrounded by people even more evil than the world itself.
I’m so happy he found Cain. 😭💙
.
.
"I freed him from his past, but he's done the same for me. He freed me from this solitude, had given me the companionship I'd been craving for so long."
.
.
This book was beautifully written. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop — I had to know what would happen next. I needed them to find a way to be on the same page. 🥹
It was very emotional — not dark, to me — but please check the trigger warnings! ⚠️
.
.
"Every part of him had been made to love every part of me."
.
.
I absolutely loved seeing Bowen become his real self, and the way he was so curious about everything Cain taught him. 🤭 The man had no filter and made me cackle more than once. 😂🤭🤭
Also, Lola? Yeah, we love a sweet little doggie 😍🐶❤️.
🐶 MM
🍎 Dystopia
🐶 Hurt/comfort
🍎 Teach me
🐶 Touch him and ☠️
🍎 Size difference
🐶 Grumpy x sunshine
5⭐
What an emotional read! I was not prepared for such a sweet yet heavy book. 😭😭💙
.
.
"I love you more than life. There has never been a day I regretted finding you and bringing you home with me. You are my entire world, but I hope I'm not yours, that you can move on from my passing and create a new world."
.
.
Cain is such a gentle giant, and the way he took care of Bowen? Precious. 🥹💙 He never gave up trying, and that’s what I admired the most about him. 🥹❤️
.
.
"Anything he wanted, I'd give him — even if it meant giving him every part of myself. He could have it all."
.
.
Bowen, oh sweet little Bowen. 🥺 I don’t even know where to start. Saying that he had a rough start in life would be an understatement. 💔💔💔
Everything that happened to him — what cruel people did to him, what they made him believe he was — none of it was deserved. 😭
He grew up surrounded by people even more evil than the world itself.
I’m so happy he found Cain. 😭💙
.
.
"I freed him from his past, but he's done the same for me. He freed me from this solitude, had given me the companionship I'd been craving for so long."
.
.
This book was beautifully written. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop — I had to know what would happen next. I needed them to find a way to be on the same page. 🥹
It was very emotional — not dark, to me — but please check the trigger warnings! ⚠️
.
.
"Every part of him had been made to love every part of me."
.
.
I absolutely loved seeing Bowen become his real self, and the way he was so curious about everything Cain taught him. 🤭 The man had no filter and made me cackle more than once. 😂🤭🤭
Also, Lola? Yeah, we love a sweet little doggie 😍🐶❤️.
🐶 MM
🍎 Dystopia
🐶 Hurt/comfort
🍎 Teach me
🐶 Touch him and ☠️
🍎 Size difference
🐶 Grumpy x sunshine
October 9, 2025
Not going to lie, I nearly cried happy tears when I was offered the chance to beta read this one. Lyla Dane is SUCH an amazing author. I loved her other two books so so much and I knew I was going to adore this one as well. And I did!
My god, Lyla. Yes, it may be a bit different from her other work, with the dystopian setting and all, but honestly? It was amazing. Her writing is so so good and she perfectly captured the gritty and primal and hopelessness of the world around Three/Bowen. The atmosphere and vibes were on point, seriously.
For me, characters can make or break a story and Lyla has a real knack for writing amazing, emotionally complex characters that just sink their teeth into my soul and don’t let go. They’re always so easy to root for and love, no matter how messed up and broken they are or how awful the world around them is. Three/Bowen is such a feral little thing, but he’s also adorable and curious and he deserves all the good things. I instantly felt immensely protective over him. He’s my sweet baby and I adore him! Of course, Cain was also fantastic! Such a sweet, gentle giant who has a surprising savage side, ahahaha. Amazing. But I really felt his loneliness in the beginning, too. It made me want to hug him so bad. Both of them, honestly. I love these two so very much and their romance is everything and they will stay with me for a loooong time.
Highly recommend this, but do mind the trigger warnings and I'd like to add a warning that this book/series is not for those with a weak stomach.
I was a beta reader for this book, so I received an early copy to review. My thoughts are my own.
My god, Lyla. Yes, it may be a bit different from her other work, with the dystopian setting and all, but honestly? It was amazing. Her writing is so so good and she perfectly captured the gritty and primal and hopelessness of the world around Three/Bowen. The atmosphere and vibes were on point, seriously.
For me, characters can make or break a story and Lyla has a real knack for writing amazing, emotionally complex characters that just sink their teeth into my soul and don’t let go. They’re always so easy to root for and love, no matter how messed up and broken they are or how awful the world around them is. Three/Bowen is such a feral little thing, but he’s also adorable and curious and he deserves all the good things. I instantly felt immensely protective over him. He’s my sweet baby and I adore him! Of course, Cain was also fantastic! Such a sweet, gentle giant who has a surprising savage side, ahahaha. Amazing. But I really felt his loneliness in the beginning, too. It made me want to hug him so bad. Both of them, honestly. I love these two so very much and their romance is everything and they will stay with me for a loooong time.
Highly recommend this, but do mind the trigger warnings and I'd like to add a warning that this book/series is not for those with a weak stomach.
I was a beta reader for this book, so I received an early copy to review. My thoughts are my own.
October 28, 2025
I am so sad this series has come to an end, but what a way to end it. Cain is the sweetest, most gentle giant of a man with the absolute biggest heart, and I felt for him right of the go.
Three/Bowen how after everything he faced and everything he endured, he was able to find his place and happiness in life with his gentle Cain and, of course, Luna. And the ending was absolutely one of the sweetest.
Thank you for letting me be a part of the Arc teams for this series and helping share all the book love I have for this series 🩷
🌶🌶🌶
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Three/Bowen how after everything he faced and everything he endured, he was able to find his place and happiness in life with his gentle Cain and, of course, Luna. And the ending was absolutely one of the sweetest.
Thank you for letting me be a part of the Arc teams for this series and helping share all the book love I have for this series 🩷
🌶🌶🌶
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
November 7, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up!
3 stars would’ve been a more realistic rate, but so far I'm enjoying this series (I am not reading the books in order, it's not required nor necessary), I loved the contrast between the harsh world and the tender romance.
3 stars would’ve been a more realistic rate, but so far I'm enjoying this series (I am not reading the books in order, it's not required nor necessary), I loved the contrast between the harsh world and the tender romance.
January 15, 2026
3.75⭐, but rounding it down.
This series sounded good and the book was interesting enough for me to give it a try, but it felt like the author just almost got it. The story was really close to working, but it completely lost momentum after 70% in. It fell flat, and even the ending, including the epilogue, didn’t do much to save the whole thing.
🟢 Dystopian world, post red infected rain
🟣 A bloodhound / a lone lumberjack
🟠 Age 23/24
🟡 Some good angst, not much action in the second half
🔵 Hurt/comfort that could've been really good, but got too boring
🌶️ Little smut, could've been milked a lot more; both virgins; sex scenes are good, but some not that well developed; oral, kissing, fingering, penetrative; excl t/b
The story starts out quite strong, with Three, a bloodhound, carrying the red rain virus, is used in experiments to find a cure for it. He’s later sold to two brothers who use these humans and call them bloodhounds to hunt the corrupted (zombies), treating him terribly. Since childhood, Three has known nothing but pain and suffering. He can’t read or write, is kept restrained with a collar and muzzle, and eventually manages to escape into the wild.
Cain is a lonely man living in a dense, hidden forest whose parents died, leaving him a safe, well-stocked bunker deep in the woods. Having lost all sense of purpose, he’s on the verge of ending his life when he crosses paths with Three. Cain takes him in, names him Bowen, and both slowly begin to build a connection, getting to know each other. Cain cares for Bowen, he's feeding him, clothing him, and teaching him how to read.
"I lifted my head and froze. There was a man. A giant, naked man standing under a stream of water that was flowing down from above him into a small river that snaked through the trees."
"I’d never seen anyone so… so pretty. A shaft of sunlight illuminated half his face, making his left eye glint, the water on his skin sparkling in the light. He didn’t look real. Maybe he wasn’t."
Even though the romantic connection wasn't that well done, I really loved it, the first half was good and the author can write intimacy well, even though she's not developing scenes to the fullest sometimes, yet I was really hoping we'll get a good romantic story.
Cain is a golden retriever character, and I get that, but he was simply too nice, so much so that it started to feel like he had nothing else to offer but mush. He’s all man, he's tall, enormous, a gentle giant, yet in the last 30–40% of the book his character was starting to lack, Cain needed to be more fleshed out, the potential was right there. He's really young, yet he sounded about a decade or more older at times.
The sex was great, but it felt like the author held back from including more of it. Instead, those pages were filled with mundane, uninteresting things that just didn’t work for me.
And did they only have sex when the storm rolled in? It was confusing. I thought when the muzzle came off, they were gonna go at it and really explore each other, like sleep together, wake up together, do all kinds of things, everything Bowen never had, but it all happened off-page. I mean, that would be nice to read about instead of one reading and the other whittling all the time.
As good as it was at first, many things started bothering me, crucial one also being how long it took for Cain to remove Bowen's muzzle and collar. What was up with that? This is where Cain's character should've been more determined and solid.
There were also time jumps between events and things were only quickly told in passing, while other things were told in more detail and that was a wrong choice, the only focus should've been on Cain and Bowen and their intense feelings developing, yet it wasn't really there. I wasn't sold on them falling in love, I guess it could happen down the line, but we're hardly given lust, so the love part wasn't that believable, at least for me.
I guess I'll try another book from this series, but considering they're standalones, a lot more should be said about the world the characters live in.
This series sounded good and the book was interesting enough for me to give it a try, but it felt like the author just almost got it. The story was really close to working, but it completely lost momentum after 70% in. It fell flat, and even the ending, including the epilogue, didn’t do much to save the whole thing.
🟢 Dystopian world, post red infected rain
🟣 A bloodhound / a lone lumberjack
🟠 Age 23/24
🟡 Some good angst, not much action in the second half
🔵 Hurt/comfort that could've been really good, but got too boring
🌶️ Little smut, could've been milked a lot more; both virgins; sex scenes are good, but some not that well developed; oral, kissing, fingering, penetrative; excl t/b
The story starts out quite strong, with Three, a bloodhound, carrying the red rain virus, is used in experiments to find a cure for it. He’s later sold to two brothers who use these humans and call them bloodhounds to hunt the corrupted (zombies), treating him terribly. Since childhood, Three has known nothing but pain and suffering. He can’t read or write, is kept restrained with a collar and muzzle, and eventually manages to escape into the wild.
Cain is a lonely man living in a dense, hidden forest whose parents died, leaving him a safe, well-stocked bunker deep in the woods. Having lost all sense of purpose, he’s on the verge of ending his life when he crosses paths with Three. Cain takes him in, names him Bowen, and both slowly begin to build a connection, getting to know each other. Cain cares for Bowen, he's feeding him, clothing him, and teaching him how to read.
"I lifted my head and froze. There was a man. A giant, naked man standing under a stream of water that was flowing down from above him into a small river that snaked through the trees."
"I’d never seen anyone so… so pretty. A shaft of sunlight illuminated half his face, making his left eye glint, the water on his skin sparkling in the light. He didn’t look real. Maybe he wasn’t."
Even though the romantic connection wasn't that well done, I really loved it, the first half was good and the author can write intimacy well, even though she's not developing scenes to the fullest sometimes, yet I was really hoping we'll get a good romantic story.
Cain is a golden retriever character, and I get that, but he was simply too nice, so much so that it started to feel like he had nothing else to offer but mush. He’s all man, he's tall, enormous, a gentle giant, yet in the last 30–40% of the book his character was starting to lack, Cain needed to be more fleshed out, the potential was right there. He's really young, yet he sounded about a decade or more older at times.
The sex was great, but it felt like the author held back from including more of it. Instead, those pages were filled with mundane, uninteresting things that just didn’t work for me.
And did they only have sex when the storm rolled in? It was confusing. I thought when the muzzle came off, they were gonna go at it and really explore each other, like sleep together, wake up together, do all kinds of things, everything Bowen never had, but it all happened off-page. I mean, that would be nice to read about instead of one reading and the other whittling all the time.
As good as it was at first, many things started bothering me, crucial one also being how long it took for Cain to remove Bowen's muzzle and collar. What was up with that? This is where Cain's character should've been more determined and solid.
There were also time jumps between events and things were only quickly told in passing, while other things were told in more detail and that was a wrong choice, the only focus should've been on Cain and Bowen and their intense feelings developing, yet it wasn't really there. I wasn't sold on them falling in love, I guess it could happen down the line, but we're hardly given lust, so the love part wasn't that believable, at least for me.
I guess I'll try another book from this series, but considering they're standalones, a lot more should be said about the world the characters live in.
October 28, 2025
Bad Blood
Mayhem Manuscripts Season One: 1nf3ction
Lyla Dane
Cain & Bowen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Touch him and D1e
Care taking
Hurt / Comfort
Dystopian
“Teach Me”
Feral MC
Size difference
Obsessive/ Possessive/ Protective
Pretty sure I'm in love with this 🥺❤️💔😭
Sheesh, Bowen broke me
I cried sad tears but also wept in joy for them.
This was so sweet, tender and emotional.
Bowen has been through way too much. Kept as Hound in chains, in a cage and a muzzle on his face … 100% of the time…
I'm done. I'm out. Oh, my heart.
Bowen is able to escape, barely. And sweet gentle giant Cain finds him 😭❤️🥺
This was so good.
Cain is incredible. Immune and has his own sheer and was so lonely. Just him and his dog Luna.
This was so beautiful. Cain just wants to protect and take care of Bowen. Teach him things and just love him ❤️ 🥺❤️
I have loved every book in this series.
This was the sweetest.
I can't
I am so glad these two found each other and have their forever love now.
The way these two interacted lol they were so adorable when Cain was teaching him things lol
The carrying of Bowen 🥺❤️. Ugh my heart.
“I loved him. With every atom of my being, I loved this little ball of curious chaos that had barreled into my life and changed everything.”
They were perfect. This was incredible
Sweet, swoony, spicy and just tender and vulnerable.
“Every part of him had been made to love every part of me.”
In such a harsh world they live in they found love.
“I’d found someone special. He was eager and adorable, always positive and enthusiastic and unendingly curious. A little tiny sun that had wandered into my home, lighting up every dark corner. He was just…he was perfect.”
Just wow
Loved this
So thankful for this arc
Mayhem Manuscripts Season One: 1nf3ction
Lyla Dane
Cain & Bowen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Touch him and D1e
Care taking
Hurt / Comfort
Dystopian
“Teach Me”
Feral MC
Size difference
Obsessive/ Possessive/ Protective
Pretty sure I'm in love with this 🥺❤️💔😭
Sheesh, Bowen broke me
I cried sad tears but also wept in joy for them.
This was so sweet, tender and emotional.
Bowen has been through way too much. Kept as Hound in chains, in a cage and a muzzle on his face … 100% of the time…
I'm done. I'm out. Oh, my heart.
Bowen is able to escape, barely. And sweet gentle giant Cain finds him 😭❤️🥺
This was so good.
Cain is incredible. Immune and has his own sheer and was so lonely. Just him and his dog Luna.
This was so beautiful. Cain just wants to protect and take care of Bowen. Teach him things and just love him ❤️ 🥺❤️
I have loved every book in this series.
This was the sweetest.
I can't
I am so glad these two found each other and have their forever love now.
The way these two interacted lol they were so adorable when Cain was teaching him things lol
The carrying of Bowen 🥺❤️. Ugh my heart.
“I loved him. With every atom of my being, I loved this little ball of curious chaos that had barreled into my life and changed everything.”
They were perfect. This was incredible
Sweet, swoony, spicy and just tender and vulnerable.
“Every part of him had been made to love every part of me.”
In such a harsh world they live in they found love.
“I’d found someone special. He was eager and adorable, always positive and enthusiastic and unendingly curious. A little tiny sun that had wandered into my home, lighting up every dark corner. He was just…he was perfect.”
Just wow
Loved this
So thankful for this arc
November 24, 2025
I love a good post-apocalyptic romance so BAD BLOOD was a fun read and I liked the massive hurt/comfort vibes. Bowen and Cain made a cute, if slightly co-dependent couple and I really enjoyed seeing the progression of Bowen's trust. Cain was the softest, gentle giant and I did like his character though he felt a little too naive and sheltered for an apocalyptic situation. That being said he was sweet and the way he cared for Bowen and just wanted to make him happy was great.
Bowen was the complete opposite -- in both size and demeanor -- and he had a harder journey from being practically feral to only slightly less feral, lol. His past was traumatic and the way he just thought of himself as a monster or animal was heartbreaking. This was a slow burn on the spice and romance since Bowen was understandably cautious around strangers but it was worth the wait.
I'd recommend this to anyone who wants to read about a really dark world mixed with a fluffy relationship. It admittedly won't stick with me for months to come but it was fun.
Content Warning: captivity and medical experimentation against the MC's consent; brief suicidal thoughts and almost attempt (on page); one MC attacks the other (a symptom of the virus); somewhat questionable consent at first (mild); violence and gore
Bowen was the complete opposite -- in both size and demeanor -- and he had a harder journey from being practically feral to only slightly less feral, lol. His past was traumatic and the way he just thought of himself as a monster or animal was heartbreaking. This was a slow burn on the spice and romance since Bowen was understandably cautious around strangers but it was worth the wait.
I'd recommend this to anyone who wants to read about a really dark world mixed with a fluffy relationship. It admittedly won't stick with me for months to come but it was fun.
Content Warning: captivity and medical experimentation against the MC's consent; brief suicidal thoughts and almost attempt (on page); one MC attacks the other (a symptom of the virus); somewhat questionable consent at first (mild); violence and gore
October 27, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
With this book ends the 1nf3ction: Season 1 multi-author collab and what an ending it is 😍. I cannot gush about this book enough 🥹. It hurts, and it heals 🫶. It's so sweet and so spicy when the spice hits but ultimately it's a story about two individuals who are both hurting and both need healing in their own ways. Thankfully they find one another, but it's still a wild ride even when they find each other 🤯.
Bowen, is such a danger kitty. He bites and claws at everyone around him but ultimately just wants love and gentle touches 😭🥹, and he finds that in his gentle giant Cain. Cain who literally just wants to find someone to dote and love on, who has this big body built for protection and love and no one to give it to until a little captive with no name and walls the size of Mount Everest appears and falls into his pit 😮😈.
I loved the way their entire relationship unfolded, and how slowly but surely Three becomes Bowen and falls for his saviour 🥰. You definitely don't want to miss this last installment of the series! It's perfection in my eyes 👌🫣.
I've loved this world, I've loved the author's involved and the characters, and I cannot wait to catch up on some of the books I've missed AND for hopefully a new season eventually 😈💯.
With this book ends the 1nf3ction: Season 1 multi-author collab and what an ending it is 😍. I cannot gush about this book enough 🥹. It hurts, and it heals 🫶. It's so sweet and so spicy when the spice hits but ultimately it's a story about two individuals who are both hurting and both need healing in their own ways. Thankfully they find one another, but it's still a wild ride even when they find each other 🤯.
Bowen, is such a danger kitty. He bites and claws at everyone around him but ultimately just wants love and gentle touches 😭🥹, and he finds that in his gentle giant Cain. Cain who literally just wants to find someone to dote and love on, who has this big body built for protection and love and no one to give it to until a little captive with no name and walls the size of Mount Everest appears and falls into his pit 😮😈.
I loved the way their entire relationship unfolded, and how slowly but surely Three becomes Bowen and falls for his saviour 🥰. You definitely don't want to miss this last installment of the series! It's perfection in my eyes 👌🫣.
I've loved this world, I've loved the author's involved and the characters, and I cannot wait to catch up on some of the books I've missed AND for hopefully a new season eventually 😈💯.
November 3, 2025
4.5 stars
Ugh these two were so damn sweet together!! Poor Bowen and everything he’s been through!! I’m so happy he found Cain. Cain is like literal sunshine. He’s a golden retriever character who is just so perfect in every way. I loved him so much!! He would do absolutely anything for Bowen. I loved that Bowen became this possessive little thing.
I actually wish this was longer. It would have been nice to see them together a little more. It’s pretty much a slow burn as far as their relationship went so a little bit longer would have been nice. I’m glad there wasn’t too much violence after Bowen escaped because he’s honestly been through enough.
I would love to read more in this world. I know this is a multi author series based on the same thing but I want more of THIS particular world. Where we can see more of Cain and Bowen in the future.
TWs in the back of the book.
NO CHEATING, OP, OR SEPARATION IN ANY WAY. DUAL VIRGINS! THEY ARE EACH OTHERS FIRST EVERYTHING!! HEA/HFN? (Only because it’s hard to say with the world they live in but I tell myself it’s a HEA)
Ugh these two were so damn sweet together!! Poor Bowen and everything he’s been through!! I’m so happy he found Cain. Cain is like literal sunshine. He’s a golden retriever character who is just so perfect in every way. I loved him so much!! He would do absolutely anything for Bowen. I loved that Bowen became this possessive little thing.
I actually wish this was longer. It would have been nice to see them together a little more. It’s pretty much a slow burn as far as their relationship went so a little bit longer would have been nice. I’m glad there wasn’t too much violence after Bowen escaped because he’s honestly been through enough.
I would love to read more in this world. I know this is a multi author series based on the same thing but I want more of THIS particular world. Where we can see more of Cain and Bowen in the future.
TWs in the back of the book.
NO CHEATING, OP, OR SEPARATION IN ANY WAY. DUAL VIRGINS! THEY ARE EACH OTHERS FIRST EVERYTHING!! HEA/HFN? (Only because it’s hard to say with the world they live in but I tell myself it’s a HEA)
October 24, 2025
This book was absolutely everything I needed it to be and so much more, I adored these characters so much and Lyla's writing style pulled me in immediately and I truly did not want this book to end.
October 28, 2025
arc review
I was so excited for this one—I love Lyla Dane! Bad Blood was heartbreaking but also really sweet. Cain and Bowen met under some pretty rough circumstances, after Bowen been through so much that his mind is kind of all over the place. But despite all the pain, things eventually fell into place.
I loved that Cain never gave up on Bowen, no matter what. They needed each other in their own way, and it just made the story hit even harder.
“Every part of him had been made to love every part of me.”
I was so excited for this one—I love Lyla Dane! Bad Blood was heartbreaking but also really sweet. Cain and Bowen met under some pretty rough circumstances, after Bowen been through so much that his mind is kind of all over the place. But despite all the pain, things eventually fell into place.
I loved that Cain never gave up on Bowen, no matter what. They needed each other in their own way, and it just made the story hit even harder.
“Every part of him had been made to love every part of me.”
December 26, 2025
I loved this book. For how dark the themes were, it was incredibly freakin sweet.
October 20, 2025
I’ve never fallen in love with a feisty lil zombie babe so fast in my LIFE. Spice is top tier, plot is amazing, characters are even better. Happy fn birthday.
October 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
Probably my favourite couple in the INF3CTION series I’ve read so far!
Three is just one hound in a group of people who are abused and used to detect when the infected are near. When he escapes, he’s near death and completely feral. Our lucky boy ends up stumbling on Cain’s home, and right into one of his pit traps. Cain is a gigantic softie, and is willing to do anything to help heal this broken, rabid man.
The plot of this book is ALL focused on the characters’ relationship, and how Cain slowly wins Three’s love and trust. (yes he gets a real name later).
This book has:
-huge size difference
-lots of hurt/comfort
-healing & caretaking
-gentle giant caregiver x feral younger and smaller MC
-a cute dog
If you’re looking for a book with more of a plot, this one isn’t for you. But if you love relationship focused books with the sweetest characters ever, and beautiful writing quality, then this is absolutely for you. I adore Lyla Dane’s writing style. It’s so emotional and interesting, and perfectly paced. Cain is the greenest of green flag men. How he is such a good person in the middle of the apocalypse, I don’t know. But I love him for it! Cain and Three’s love is so simple and pure, despite the horrible situations Three has gone through.
My favourite scene is when Three gets his new name 🥺
Definitely read this one if the tropes resonate with you. It’s so good!
Probably my favourite couple in the INF3CTION series I’ve read so far!
Three is just one hound in a group of people who are abused and used to detect when the infected are near. When he escapes, he’s near death and completely feral. Our lucky boy ends up stumbling on Cain’s home, and right into one of his pit traps. Cain is a gigantic softie, and is willing to do anything to help heal this broken, rabid man.
The plot of this book is ALL focused on the characters’ relationship, and how Cain slowly wins Three’s love and trust. (yes he gets a real name later).
This book has:
-huge size difference
-lots of hurt/comfort
-healing & caretaking
-gentle giant caregiver x feral younger and smaller MC
-a cute dog
If you’re looking for a book with more of a plot, this one isn’t for you. But if you love relationship focused books with the sweetest characters ever, and beautiful writing quality, then this is absolutely for you. I adore Lyla Dane’s writing style. It’s so emotional and interesting, and perfectly paced. Cain is the greenest of green flag men. How he is such a good person in the middle of the apocalypse, I don’t know. But I love him for it! Cain and Three’s love is so simple and pure, despite the horrible situations Three has gone through.
My favourite scene is when Three gets his new name 🥺
Definitely read this one if the tropes resonate with you. It’s so good!
October 29, 2025
Bad Blood - Lyla Dane
5/5
I knew that when Lyla was part of this interconnected series that it was going to be worth the wait for sure. I wasn’t sure what I was even expecting but man, she had me in all my feelings, and I was here for every moment.
First off, I loved how Cain gave him the name Bowen. It was the absolute perfect name. When they first met, Bowen wasn’t used to people not wanting something in return or hurting him, and man, Cain was everything he needed and vice versa.
This story was everything I could ever want. All Bowen ever wanted was to be free and to be saved. Cain certainly does that and so much more. The caretaking and oh my goodness, the carrying had me smiling from ear to ear. The spice was so good and that didn’t surprise me because it was so good. The river scene was definitely one of my favorites.
I about cried when he was given a mirror. Ugh, that whole scene - both times, made me tear up. I really loved how Cain would burn the world for this man. And I loved how they fell in love. Also, can we just talk about how adorable Luna was when she first met Bowen?
I really didn’t want to finish this book because I was here for these two. You know a book is going to be good before you start it? Yup, that was this one!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5
I knew that when Lyla was part of this interconnected series that it was going to be worth the wait for sure. I wasn’t sure what I was even expecting but man, she had me in all my feelings, and I was here for every moment.
First off, I loved how Cain gave him the name Bowen. It was the absolute perfect name. When they first met, Bowen wasn’t used to people not wanting something in return or hurting him, and man, Cain was everything he needed and vice versa.
This story was everything I could ever want. All Bowen ever wanted was to be free and to be saved. Cain certainly does that and so much more. The caretaking and oh my goodness, the carrying had me smiling from ear to ear. The spice was so good and that didn’t surprise me because it was so good. The river scene was definitely one of my favorites.
I about cried when he was given a mirror. Ugh, that whole scene - both times, made me tear up. I really loved how Cain would burn the world for this man. And I loved how they fell in love. Also, can we just talk about how adorable Luna was when she first met Bowen?
I really didn’t want to finish this book because I was here for these two. You know a book is going to be good before you start it? Yup, that was this one!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
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