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Venomous
He doesn't just love, he claims and consumes....
They call me The Southern Poisoner—contract killer, legend, monster in a tailored suit.
I was supposed to be on vacation. Two years of blood and bodies had earned me that much.
Then I found her.
Chained. Feral. Spitting fire even as she begged for freedom.
I should’ve walked away. I’m not the hero.
But I set her free.
Now she haunts me. Fights me. Tempts the monster in me to play nice.
I thought I was the one in control.
I am The Southern Poisoner.
But somehow… I think I’m the one being poisoned.
*Although Venomous is focused on Venom & Ivy, it is still recommended to read The Bone Reaper first, where Venom is first introduced and plays an important role in Reaper & Charlotte's story. In the author's opinion, this will assist in having full context and a better experience when reading Venomous.*
*Please be aware of content warning before divining in. Some content may be disturbing or triggering to some. Reader discretion advised.*
They call me The Southern Poisoner—contract killer, legend, monster in a tailored suit.
I was supposed to be on vacation. Two years of blood and bodies had earned me that much.
Then I found her.
Chained. Feral. Spitting fire even as she begged for freedom.
I should’ve walked away. I’m not the hero.
But I set her free.
Now she haunts me. Fights me. Tempts the monster in me to play nice.
I thought I was the one in control.
I am The Southern Poisoner.
But somehow… I think I’m the one being poisoned.
*Although Venomous is focused on Venom & Ivy, it is still recommended to read The Bone Reaper first, where Venom is first introduced and plays an important role in Reaper & Charlotte's story. In the author's opinion, this will assist in having full context and a better experience when reading Venomous.*
*Please be aware of content warning before divining in. Some content may be disturbing or triggering to some. Reader discretion advised.*
- GenresDark Romance
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2025
18 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 24, 2025
5 ⭐️ ♾️
Venomous (Visceral Duet #2) by Kayla Marie
What a ride. Venomous is the kind of story that sinks its teeth into you and doesn’t let go.
This book has it all: sharp banter, tearful moments, raw vulnerability, exotic creatures and plants, brutal gore, the heartbreak of misfortune, the salvation of lost souls, scorching intimacy, and revenge served deliciously cold. There are even sweet endearments tucked in between the chaos.
Venom himself is unforgettable: a southern poisoner, part mad scientist, part dark seducer. His obsession with plants, snakes, and toxins makes him dangerous, but his charm is even more potent. He seeps under your skin, possessive and intoxicating, until you’re left craving his antidote.
And then there’s Ivy—fierce, combative, and scarred by a brutal past. Watching her shed her old skin, piece by piece, as she grows into her new life with Venom’s help and teachings, is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Kayla Marie balances darkness and light beautifully. One moment you’re laughing, the next you’re crying, and then suddenly you’re grinning like a fool over the giddiness of it all. Venomous is sexy, alluring, and addictive—a story that keeps you on edge, page after page, without a single dull moment.
This duet is visceral in every sense of the word—pure torture in the best of ways and I’ll be thinking about it for a long, long time.
***Beta Read Review for the Author***
Venomous (Visceral Duet #2) by Kayla Marie
What a ride. Venomous is the kind of story that sinks its teeth into you and doesn’t let go.
This book has it all: sharp banter, tearful moments, raw vulnerability, exotic creatures and plants, brutal gore, the heartbreak of misfortune, the salvation of lost souls, scorching intimacy, and revenge served deliciously cold. There are even sweet endearments tucked in between the chaos.
Venom himself is unforgettable: a southern poisoner, part mad scientist, part dark seducer. His obsession with plants, snakes, and toxins makes him dangerous, but his charm is even more potent. He seeps under your skin, possessive and intoxicating, until you’re left craving his antidote.
And then there’s Ivy—fierce, combative, and scarred by a brutal past. Watching her shed her old skin, piece by piece, as she grows into her new life with Venom’s help and teachings, is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Kayla Marie balances darkness and light beautifully. One moment you’re laughing, the next you’re crying, and then suddenly you’re grinning like a fool over the giddiness of it all. Venomous is sexy, alluring, and addictive—a story that keeps you on edge, page after page, without a single dull moment.
This duet is visceral in every sense of the word—pure torture in the best of ways and I’ll be thinking about it for a long, long time.
***Beta Read Review for the Author***
October 5, 2025
I LOVED THIS BOOK. Venom has officially dethroned my #1 book boyfriend. The swagger, the sass, the arrogance- I’m fully obsessed. This story was driven by pure plot, super sharp banter, the unraveling of past trauma, and a strong FMC who shines without being overshadowed. The romance had spice, but it was a garnish, not the main course and it was perfect that way. Venom is seriously my favorite anti-hero like I'm feral for him.
October 27, 2025
ARC Review:
when i finished THE BONE REAPER and met venom for the first time i was already done for 🤭 and then kayla told me he was getting his own book i knew he was gonna serve and HE DID 😮💨 blonde, tall and sassy with a tragic backstory is my type fr 😌🖤
when i finished THE BONE REAPER and met venom for the first time i was already done for 🤭 and then kayla told me he was getting his own book i knew he was gonna serve and HE DID 😮💨 blonde, tall and sassy with a tragic backstory is my type fr 😌🖤
October 28, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Ya’ll need to quit sleeping on this author. Cause’ when I say I’m obsessed with the writing, I like, really mean it. After the 1st book in this duet (Bone Reaper), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Venom’s book. Anti-hero turns hero with a sweet (*wink wink) Southern hospitality, and I loved the reintroduction of Reaper and Charlotte. Truly hope this won’t be the last we see of these characters! I’m not ready to say goodbye!
Ya’ll need to quit sleeping on this author. Cause’ when I say I’m obsessed with the writing, I like, really mean it. After the 1st book in this duet (Bone Reaper), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Venom’s book. Anti-hero turns hero with a sweet (*wink wink) Southern hospitality, and I loved the reintroduction of Reaper and Charlotte. Truly hope this won’t be the last we see of these characters! I’m not ready to say goodbye!
October 28, 2025
I’ve been dying for more Venom! I’m glad Kayla gave him a book. And the dedication - perfection 😍🤭
His name is a warning and a giant red flag. But I don’t care. As dangerous and deadly as he is, he’s even more addicting. Venom has that southern gentlemen charm and swagger that will make you melt.
There’s something alluring about watching a woman bring a man like Venom to his knees. Ivy kills it. She’s strong, guarded, witty, and a touch vulnerable.
Watching these two open up and eventually fall was captivating. I love their banter and tension. I enjoyed the way that Ivy and Venom play off one another and the growth that occurs.
I found myself wanting to yell at them several times. I might have nearly tossed this book across the room out of frustration (but the good kind). There were anxious moments causing some nail biting and a few tears too. Just know you’re in for an emotional rollercoaster. It’s not a simple and easy love story. But it couldn’t happen any other way; I wouldn’t have wanted their story written differently.
I highly recommend reading The Bone Reaper before this book, even though this could be a read as a standalone. Venom is first introduced in that book. It’s another amazing story full of tension, a masked morally grey man, a woman who finds her strength, and a beautiful slow burn romance.
His name is a warning and a giant red flag. But I don’t care. As dangerous and deadly as he is, he’s even more addicting. Venom has that southern gentlemen charm and swagger that will make you melt.
There’s something alluring about watching a woman bring a man like Venom to his knees. Ivy kills it. She’s strong, guarded, witty, and a touch vulnerable.
Watching these two open up and eventually fall was captivating. I love their banter and tension. I enjoyed the way that Ivy and Venom play off one another and the growth that occurs.
I found myself wanting to yell at them several times. I might have nearly tossed this book across the room out of frustration (but the good kind). There were anxious moments causing some nail biting and a few tears too. Just know you’re in for an emotional rollercoaster. It’s not a simple and easy love story. But it couldn’t happen any other way; I wouldn’t have wanted their story written differently.
I highly recommend reading The Bone Reaper before this book, even though this could be a read as a standalone. Venom is first introduced in that book. It’s another amazing story full of tension, a masked morally grey man, a woman who finds her strength, and a beautiful slow burn romance.
September 30, 2025
I absolutely Loved Bone Reaper- the chemistry and story between Charlotte and Reaper was sinfully fun. And then here comes Kayla gifting us with Venom & Ivy and I'm just DONE for. Venom's cameo in The Bone Reaper was absolutely divine, and she brought that magic through to us again. But GD if we didn't also get a tragic backstory for him that made his targets for killing make sense. It was painful, it was devastating, and it was what we needed to understand him. Ivy's own life was just as broken until she met Venom. But together... they were beautifully broken together. Ivy had teeth and Venom liked her beast.
Venom's quips and deadpan one-liners had me chuckling every chapter. And the guest appearance towards the end! Gasp! Another banger from Kayla Marie.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC
Venom's quips and deadpan one-liners had me chuckling every chapter. And the guest appearance towards the end! Gasp! Another banger from Kayla Marie.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC
October 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Venom
This was his last job before he was set to go on a well deserved vacation. It was supposed to go smoothly get in and out no complications. Never in his wildest dreams did he ever consider coming across her.
Ivy
For nine months she was locked in a greenhouse basement by a couple that sold her to the highest bidder. She thought she glimpse a chance of freedom when he unlocked her chains but little did she know she was leaving one nightmare for the venomous claws of another.
“I might prefer killing women, but I will end a man just as quickly for letting his eyes roam all over what is mine.”
Venom mission is to remove all females that are apart of sex trafficking. He weapon of choice is venom especailly snake venom. His mom was the first women to be present in his life and also the one that caused him the most trauma. Since a young age he has struggled with women and never been in a real relationship.
Ivy was in and out of foster homes, filled with parents who did not truly care for her. Once she escaped them she fell into the hands of another Toxic person. She has never been able to experience the joys and pleasures a relationship can bring.
They both have had troubling past that have caused their walls to be iron clad and very tall. I loved watching the relationship grow between these two. It was unfamiliar territory for both of them. Watching them be what each other needed. I also love Evelyn. The relationship between all three of them is so sweet. Evelyn is the perfect motherly figure that neither Ivy or Venom got to experience growing up.
Venom
This was his last job before he was set to go on a well deserved vacation. It was supposed to go smoothly get in and out no complications. Never in his wildest dreams did he ever consider coming across her.
Ivy
For nine months she was locked in a greenhouse basement by a couple that sold her to the highest bidder. She thought she glimpse a chance of freedom when he unlocked her chains but little did she know she was leaving one nightmare for the venomous claws of another.
“I might prefer killing women, but I will end a man just as quickly for letting his eyes roam all over what is mine.”
Venom mission is to remove all females that are apart of sex trafficking. He weapon of choice is venom especailly snake venom. His mom was the first women to be present in his life and also the one that caused him the most trauma. Since a young age he has struggled with women and never been in a real relationship.
Ivy was in and out of foster homes, filled with parents who did not truly care for her. Once she escaped them she fell into the hands of another Toxic person. She has never been able to experience the joys and pleasures a relationship can bring.
They both have had troubling past that have caused their walls to be iron clad and very tall. I loved watching the relationship grow between these two. It was unfamiliar territory for both of them. Watching them be what each other needed. I also love Evelyn. The relationship between all three of them is so sweet. Evelyn is the perfect motherly figure that neither Ivy or Venom got to experience growing up.
December 2, 2025
Couldn’t put this down, but I definitely wanted to smack Venom a handful of times and yell, “Are you fucking kidding me?!” (À la Kristen Wiig in Bridesmaids) in the beginning of this story. Considering Venom’s past, his behavior did make sense and by the end I wanted to hug him and destroy everyone who hurt him. A lot of traumatic events are described in this sequel, and at times I had to give myself a little pause. *Check your trigger warnings, friends*
Some moments felt rushed but overall, I really enjoyed this story. Venom + Ivy’s story was totally unhinged and beautiful, and I’m relieved they got their happily ever after…with a delicious side of revenge.
🐍 Captor/Captive
🌱 Hate to Love
🐍 Touch Her and Die
🌱 Found Family
🐍 Snakes
🌱 Trauma
🐍 Trauma
🌱 Trauma
Some moments felt rushed but overall, I really enjoyed this story. Venom + Ivy’s story was totally unhinged and beautiful, and I’m relieved they got their happily ever after…with a delicious side of revenge.
🐍 Captor/Captive
🌱 Hate to Love
🐍 Touch Her and Die
🌱 Found Family
🐍 Snakes
🌱 Trauma
🐍 Trauma
🌱 Trauma
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Venom is literally the most UNHINGED man. He’s psycho, funny as hell and fiercely loyal to the people he loves.
This book had me giggling and saying “oh my god” practically the ENTIRE book.
If you like dark romance, unhinged MMCs, bratty FMCs and tortuous spice, you will devour this book just like I did!!
🐍🍑
FAOFB: “ You really are as pretty as a peach, but something tells me if I were to take a bit of you darlin’, I’d end up choking on a type of poison I’m not immune to.”
-Venom
🥵🥵🥵
October 8, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin.
I’ve never wanted to be a FMC more.
I love Ivy first of all.
Second, I wanna be loved by Venom 🤣🤌🫠
Is he a little unhinged? Sure
But who doesn’t love a little crazy 🤪
Also, if i could live anywhere, it would be in Venom’s green house! It is literal perfection! And if you can’t imagine what it might be like… just take a look at the cover and imagine that + more!
I most definitely recommend reading The Bone Reaper first. You’ll have a way better picture and idea of who everyone is and how they are connected.
Thank you SO much Kayla for the opportunity to be an omega reader. I’ll be here for as long as you have me!
🐍🌺
Tropes:
Captive/captor
Forced proximity
Hate to love
Assassin/hitman/poisoner
Touch-starved
Sadomasochist
Touch her & 💀
I’ve never wanted to be a FMC more.
I love Ivy first of all.
Second, I wanna be loved by Venom 🤣🤌🫠
Is he a little unhinged? Sure
But who doesn’t love a little crazy 🤪
Also, if i could live anywhere, it would be in Venom’s green house! It is literal perfection! And if you can’t imagine what it might be like… just take a look at the cover and imagine that + more!
I most definitely recommend reading The Bone Reaper first. You’ll have a way better picture and idea of who everyone is and how they are connected.
Thank you SO much Kayla for the opportunity to be an omega reader. I’ll be here for as long as you have me!
🐍🌺
Tropes:
Captive/captor
Forced proximity
Hate to love
Assassin/hitman/poisoner
Touch-starved
Sadomasochist
Touch her & 💀
October 20, 2025
Venomous by Kayla Marie continues the dark, intense world introduced in The Bone Reaper, blending passion, trauma, and redemption with the author’s signature edge. The premise is intriguing and the emotional themes—healing, obsession, and identity—had a lot of potential.That said, Venomous didn’t fully meet my expectations. I was hoping for a stronger plot and tighter writing to match the power of the story’s concept. Some scenes felt rushed, and the pacing occasionally made it hard to connect as deeply with the characters as I wanted to. Still, there were bright spots: flashes of chemistry between the leads, emotionally charged dialogue, and glimpses of the vulnerability that made the first book compelling.Despite its flaws, Venomous has heart and will likely resonate with readers who enjoy dark, character-driven romances full of grit and tension. While it wasn’t quite the standout I hoped for, I still appreciate the emotion and ambition behind it. Three stars for solid effort and moments that shine through
October 25, 2025
Venomous is the second book of the Visceral Love Duet. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
We first meet Venom in the Bone Reaper, so it is recommended to read this book first. He saves Logan and Charlotte.
Venomous takes place five months after the events of the Bone Reaper. Venom was going on vacation after a job he was doing but those plans were put on hold when he found Ivy, who happened to be kidnapped by Venoms targets. He takes her back to his home because she had nowhere to go but it wasn't done out of pity. Ivy somewhat became prisoner to Venom, she became his captive.
Ivy though battered and bruised from her ordeal in Venoms eyes she was both mesmerising and beautiful.
Venom and Ivy both carry the emotional and physical abuse from their childhoods and I think is why Venom feels the way he does about Ivy. They are both survivors.
Slowly Venom introduces Ivy to his way of life, like meeting his pet snakes and his greenhouse where he makes his poison, Ivy ended getting into danger because of this.
I love the way the relationship between Ivy and Venom developed throughout the story and the chemistry between them even when they were fighting was 🥵 Ivy begins to crave Venom as much as he craves her.
Even though Venom likes to portray himself as a villain, he cares for Ivy because he still gave her an out, he gave her the option to leave.
This story had me gripped from the beginning, I loved the main characters, they went through so much in their childhoods but I was so happy they met each other, even though the circumstances of how they met weren't normal. Ivy felt like the sweetest poison to him. " I crave her". I didn't want it to end.
🐍Found family
🖤Touch her and Die
🐍Snakes
🖤Knife Play
🐍Obsession
🖤Past Trauma
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
We first meet Venom in the Bone Reaper, so it is recommended to read this book first. He saves Logan and Charlotte.
Venomous takes place five months after the events of the Bone Reaper. Venom was going on vacation after a job he was doing but those plans were put on hold when he found Ivy, who happened to be kidnapped by Venoms targets. He takes her back to his home because she had nowhere to go but it wasn't done out of pity. Ivy somewhat became prisoner to Venom, she became his captive.
Ivy though battered and bruised from her ordeal in Venoms eyes she was both mesmerising and beautiful.
Venom and Ivy both carry the emotional and physical abuse from their childhoods and I think is why Venom feels the way he does about Ivy. They are both survivors.
Slowly Venom introduces Ivy to his way of life, like meeting his pet snakes and his greenhouse where he makes his poison, Ivy ended getting into danger because of this.
I love the way the relationship between Ivy and Venom developed throughout the story and the chemistry between them even when they were fighting was 🥵 Ivy begins to crave Venom as much as he craves her.
Even though Venom likes to portray himself as a villain, he cares for Ivy because he still gave her an out, he gave her the option to leave.
This story had me gripped from the beginning, I loved the main characters, they went through so much in their childhoods but I was so happy they met each other, even though the circumstances of how they met weren't normal. Ivy felt like the sweetest poison to him. " I crave her". I didn't want it to end.
🐍Found family
🖤Touch her and Die
🐍Snakes
🖤Knife Play
🐍Obsession
🖤Past Trauma
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2025
4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
3 1/2 🌶️🌶️🌶️💫
Ahhh Venom, the man that you are. The Southern Poisoner. I loved this character when we met him in Bone Reaper and I’d hoped he’d have his own book….and here we are. His charm is infectious, his cocky behavior still falls into the charming category and his looks are deadly….and he’s not shy about telling you how good looking he is. Well, when you’re right, you’re right….
Venom is immune to poisons but knows how to whip up the most deadly in his mission to kill women that he gets paid to assassinate. On a mundane job, he finds to his surprise, a red headed, chained up woman in the home of a couple he was sent to dispose of, her name is Ivy and against his better judgment, Venom takes her to his home.
A tug and pull of banter and wits ensue from the moment they reach the house and the banter is witty and on point. Ivy has a troubled past and Venom wants to know how she came locked up in a couple of degenerates basement. Venom has his own painful secrets and his back is a map of scars that are only half his story…
With time, can an understanding be reached as a close proximity and a shared love for dangerous flowers in a tropical oasis in a greenhouse in Venoms house, bring them closer each day or can Venom even allow himself to let any woman close to him?
Highly recommend. The banter and tension between these two was fantastic and Venom is the PERFECT Southern Gentleman 😈
3 1/2 🌶️🌶️🌶️💫
Ahhh Venom, the man that you are. The Southern Poisoner. I loved this character when we met him in Bone Reaper and I’d hoped he’d have his own book….and here we are. His charm is infectious, his cocky behavior still falls into the charming category and his looks are deadly….and he’s not shy about telling you how good looking he is. Well, when you’re right, you’re right….
Venom is immune to poisons but knows how to whip up the most deadly in his mission to kill women that he gets paid to assassinate. On a mundane job, he finds to his surprise, a red headed, chained up woman in the home of a couple he was sent to dispose of, her name is Ivy and against his better judgment, Venom takes her to his home.
A tug and pull of banter and wits ensue from the moment they reach the house and the banter is witty and on point. Ivy has a troubled past and Venom wants to know how she came locked up in a couple of degenerates basement. Venom has his own painful secrets and his back is a map of scars that are only half his story…
With time, can an understanding be reached as a close proximity and a shared love for dangerous flowers in a tropical oasis in a greenhouse in Venoms house, bring them closer each day or can Venom even allow himself to let any woman close to him?
Highly recommend. The banter and tension between these two was fantastic and Venom is the PERFECT Southern Gentleman 😈
December 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖤Captor x Captive (but he actually saves her)
❤️🔥Touch Her and Be Poisoned!
❤️🩹Emotional and Physical Scarring
🩶Morally Grey MMC
💔 "Who Hurt You?"
Venom...is...intoxicating! Deliciously charismatic, c0cky, flirty, wicked smart, a blonde haired devil with piercing blue eyes and a smirk to match. He's like a twisty alchemist, unaliver with bits of Eric Northman...the swagger, the magnetism, the danger...but then he uses his boisterous persona to sometimes hide his pain, his past, and feelings that begin to emerge for the woman he saves.
I loved the little bitty reveals to his past and hers. Ivy has the perfect amount of spunk too! I just really liked her very fast, and how she is still a fighter but is also genuinely taken by Venom as she notices his behavior towards her becoming protective and subtly caring.
It builds their relationship quite elegantly and compelling, with dark humor, banter, moments of tenderness and vulnerability that is quite touching. And then we also get some exciting action set pieces, which I always am happy to see (along with can cameos by some beloved characters). Such a solid read, with excellent pace, and a couple you find irresistible (but especially Venom! Just so darn s3xy and addictive).
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖤Captor x Captive (but he actually saves her)
❤️🔥Touch Her and Be Poisoned!
❤️🩹Emotional and Physical Scarring
🩶Morally Grey MMC
💔 "Who Hurt You?"
Venom...is...intoxicating! Deliciously charismatic, c0cky, flirty, wicked smart, a blonde haired devil with piercing blue eyes and a smirk to match. He's like a twisty alchemist, unaliver with bits of Eric Northman...the swagger, the magnetism, the danger...but then he uses his boisterous persona to sometimes hide his pain, his past, and feelings that begin to emerge for the woman he saves.
I loved the little bitty reveals to his past and hers. Ivy has the perfect amount of spunk too! I just really liked her very fast, and how she is still a fighter but is also genuinely taken by Venom as she notices his behavior towards her becoming protective and subtly caring.
It builds their relationship quite elegantly and compelling, with dark humor, banter, moments of tenderness and vulnerability that is quite touching. And then we also get some exciting action set pieces, which I always am happy to see (along with can cameos by some beloved characters). Such a solid read, with excellent pace, and a couple you find irresistible (but especially Venom! Just so darn s3xy and addictive).
January 14, 2026
Wow! This book had all the elements for a perfect dark romance!! The sharp banter, gore, raw vulnerability and revenge, and chaos, topped with the level of intimacy that burns! Whew! Perfect!!!
Venom himself was and probably will forever be my new favorite book boyfriend!! He was unforgettable!! He has a charm about him that is so dangerous! His obsession with plants, snakes and the toxins that make him dangerous is intoxicating!! He gets into your blood and there’s no cure for him!! He’s potent and so delicious!!
Ivy’s fierce, scarred by her brutal past and watching her shed her old skin was absolutely heartbreaking! With Venom’s help and guidance she becomes stronger and more powerful! It’s a beautiful transformation!
The author takes you on an emotional roller coaster throughout this book, one minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying and then you’re smiling like a fool! This book is a perfect balance between light and darkness!! It was sexy and addictive, and it keeps edging you from page to page!! Highly recommend this read!! It was pure torture and never a dull moment!!
Venom himself was and probably will forever be my new favorite book boyfriend!! He was unforgettable!! He has a charm about him that is so dangerous! His obsession with plants, snakes and the toxins that make him dangerous is intoxicating!! He gets into your blood and there’s no cure for him!! He’s potent and so delicious!!
Ivy’s fierce, scarred by her brutal past and watching her shed her old skin was absolutely heartbreaking! With Venom’s help and guidance she becomes stronger and more powerful! It’s a beautiful transformation!
The author takes you on an emotional roller coaster throughout this book, one minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying and then you’re smiling like a fool! This book is a perfect balance between light and darkness!! It was sexy and addictive, and it keeps edging you from page to page!! Highly recommend this read!! It was pure torture and never a dull moment!!
September 30, 2025
Wow! I literally can't stop saying it. When I say I couldn't put it down, I really couldn't. I can't get enough of him and Ivy. I thought that Reaper was it for me. Venom said "Darlin." and I said Reaper who? I never ever want someone to call me darlin except for Venom.
I absolutely loved the wittiness and the quips. I laughed so many times. The story was perfect. I had no idea what was going to happen next. The past of the characters will tug at your heart and make you angry and upset for them. You understand how the monster is formed and why it rears its ugly head. Seeing the growth and the walls come down was cathartic. The emotions that I felt while reading shows the talent of the author. To be able to actually feel the anger, the fear, the loss, and the happiness while reading is truly something that, as a reader, I absolutely need. To feel that connection to the characters makes the book that much more special. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the release. Everyone is going to fall in love with Ivy and Venom.
I absolutely loved the wittiness and the quips. I laughed so many times. The story was perfect. I had no idea what was going to happen next. The past of the characters will tug at your heart and make you angry and upset for them. You understand how the monster is formed and why it rears its ugly head. Seeing the growth and the walls come down was cathartic. The emotions that I felt while reading shows the talent of the author. To be able to actually feel the anger, the fear, the loss, and the happiness while reading is truly something that, as a reader, I absolutely need. To feel that connection to the characters makes the book that much more special. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the release. Everyone is going to fall in love with Ivy and Venom.
November 6, 2025
He said “I love you” but Venom said “…you’ve managed to sink your vicious teeth into me, releasing a type of poison I’m not immune to. It pumps through my veins, the chambers of my heart. Your delicious poison has filled my lungs; your wicked touch tames the flames inside me and silences my demons. Make no mistake, sweet beast, you are deep within me…”
Author Kayla Marie may not have planned to write this book but I hope she knows this book was a much appreciated surprise. I didn’t know I needed Venoms point of view but I loved every minute of it! Also I was downright happy to see that Venom got his happy ending. That man deserves it!! So ma’am, this may not have been the plan but I think you knocked it out of the park! I am obsessed.
If you have not already read The Bone Reaper, I recommend starting there and then pick up Venomous. But if you’re like me and you have met Reaper, then its time to meet Venom. I promise its worth it for all of my dark romance girlies!!!
Author Kayla Marie may not have planned to write this book but I hope she knows this book was a much appreciated surprise. I didn’t know I needed Venoms point of view but I loved every minute of it! Also I was downright happy to see that Venom got his happy ending. That man deserves it!! So ma’am, this may not have been the plan but I think you knocked it out of the park! I am obsessed.
If you have not already read The Bone Reaper, I recommend starting there and then pick up Venomous. But if you’re like me and you have met Reaper, then its time to meet Venom. I promise its worth it for all of my dark romance girlies!!!
November 23, 2025
Venomous by Kayla Marie is a deliciously dark and depraved conclusion to the Visceral Love duet. I was so excited for Venom's story and I was not disappointed!
Picking up shortly after when The Bone Reaper left of, we are quickly hurled back into the gritty, and gruesome world of the ever so charming Southern Poisoner.
I fell in love with Venom in The Bone Reaper, so I was so excited to read his story, as heartbreaking as his origin was. That's what makes him and Ivy perfect for one another. Two damaged souls, learning to love, and healing together.
Although Venomous is focused on Venom & Ivy, it is still recommended to read The Bone Reaper first, where Venom is first introduced and plays an important role in Reaper & Charlotte's story. This will assist in having full context and a better experience when reading Venomous.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings mentioned before diving in. This book is not for the faint-hearted. Your mental health matters.
Picking up shortly after when The Bone Reaper left of, we are quickly hurled back into the gritty, and gruesome world of the ever so charming Southern Poisoner.
I fell in love with Venom in The Bone Reaper, so I was so excited to read his story, as heartbreaking as his origin was. That's what makes him and Ivy perfect for one another. Two damaged souls, learning to love, and healing together.
Although Venomous is focused on Venom & Ivy, it is still recommended to read The Bone Reaper first, where Venom is first introduced and plays an important role in Reaper & Charlotte's story. This will assist in having full context and a better experience when reading Venomous.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings mentioned before diving in. This book is not for the faint-hearted. Your mental health matters.
August 25, 2025
🐍BETA REVIEW🐍
“My lips part at the sight of him—hard, dangerous, utterly venomous.”
“It truly is a beautiful thing. Life and Death. These hands plant, nurture and give life. These hands also create death from my very own garden of life.”
“I’m a man addicted to whatever poison she’s injected in me. I don’t care if it’s finally the lethal dose that kills me.”
Kayla melds darkness, trauma and romance together beautifully. The plot is seamless and the spice is PERFECTION. I laughed, I cried and I blushed. HIGHLY recommend. And while you wait for the release date, go read book 1 in The Visceral Love Duet, The Bone Reaper ☠️
Thank you @enchanted.shelf for the opportunity to BETA read for you. I can’t wait for the world to fall in love with Venom and Ivy the way that I have 🐍🌿
“My lips part at the sight of him—hard, dangerous, utterly venomous.”
“It truly is a beautiful thing. Life and Death. These hands plant, nurture and give life. These hands also create death from my very own garden of life.”
“I’m a man addicted to whatever poison she’s injected in me. I don’t care if it’s finally the lethal dose that kills me.”
Kayla melds darkness, trauma and romance together beautifully. The plot is seamless and the spice is PERFECTION. I laughed, I cried and I blushed. HIGHLY recommend. And while you wait for the release date, go read book 1 in The Visceral Love Duet, The Bone Reaper ☠️
Thank you @enchanted.shelf for the opportunity to BETA read for you. I can’t wait for the world to fall in love with Venom and Ivy the way that I have 🐍🌿
October 31, 2025
I beta read Venomous and even in its unfinished form, it was my top read of the month. The story of Venom and Ivy is perfection. The banter is top tier. Venom is a sympathetic anti-hero who you will have no choice but to fall in love with. His story is truly heartbreaking and him finding healing through Ivy is truly beautiful to read.
Ivy is perfect for Venom and she matches his energy at every turn. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and everything Kayla writes is the ultimate slump killer. Reaper and Venom have invaded my book boyfriend rotation. I am just in love with these characters.
The spice, the banter, the action, the heartbreak…it all adds up to a super fun ride and a beautiful love story!!
Ivy is perfect for Venom and she matches his energy at every turn. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and everything Kayla writes is the ultimate slump killer. Reaper and Venom have invaded my book boyfriend rotation. I am just in love with these characters.
The spice, the banter, the action, the heartbreak…it all adds up to a super fun ride and a beautiful love story!!
November 4, 2025
Well, well, well. If I didn't love Marcus from the brief encounter of him in The Bone Reaper, I certainly am in love with him now. What woman doesn't love a southern gentleman who will end anyone who even so much as breathes in your direction? And holy death. The ways he can end a person? Insane and insanely hot, I won't lie. I am obsessed with this couple and I also love that Charlotte and Reaper made an appearance as well. Even sporting a new spine whip to boot. I don't love snakes, but the amount of snake forward books that I have read this year is wild. These two have such a fiery connection that it is nonstop from the moment that they meet. I loved every minute of this one, and I absolutely recommend.
November 1, 2025
Venomous by Kayla Marie
🖤Captive/captor
⭐️Forced proximity
🖤Hate to love
⭐️Assassin/hitman/poisoner
🖤Touch her & 💀
ARC review:
I’m SO glad Venom received his own book!
We first meet Venom in the Bone Reaper, so it is recommended to read this book first. He saves Logan and Charlotte. Ivy — For nine months she was locked in a greenhouse basement by a couple that sold her to the highest bidder. Ivy is perfect for Venom and she matches his energy at every turn.
“I’m a man addicted to whatever poison she’s injected in me. I don’t care if it’s finally the lethal dose that kills me.”
🖤Captive/captor
⭐️Forced proximity
🖤Hate to love
⭐️Assassin/hitman/poisoner
🖤Touch her & 💀
ARC review:
I’m SO glad Venom received his own book!
We first meet Venom in the Bone Reaper, so it is recommended to read this book first. He saves Logan and Charlotte. Ivy — For nine months she was locked in a greenhouse basement by a couple that sold her to the highest bidder. Ivy is perfect for Venom and she matches his energy at every turn.
“I’m a man addicted to whatever poison she’s injected in me. I don’t care if it’s finally the lethal dose that kills me.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2025
OVERALL: 4.5
SPICE:3
TROPES:
CAPTIVE/CAPTOR
FORCED PROXIMITY
FOUND FAMILY
ASSASSIN
TOUCH HER AND DIE
I was a HUGE fan of Venom in the Bone Reaper and Kayla giving him his own book and telling his story just cemented my feelings...he is one of my favorite villains. Make no mistake, he is a southern charmer, but he is still the villain. However, I promise you will be ok with it.
His origin story is tough, and Ivy's is no better. But what is not to love about 2 broken/damaged souls healing together?
I have loved Kayla's writing from the start. If you have not read anything of hers, you my friend are missing out.
Please be sure to read The Bone Reaper first though!
SPICE:3
TROPES:
CAPTIVE/CAPTOR
FORCED PROXIMITY
FOUND FAMILY
ASSASSIN
TOUCH HER AND DIE
I was a HUGE fan of Venom in the Bone Reaper and Kayla giving him his own book and telling his story just cemented my feelings...he is one of my favorite villains. Make no mistake, he is a southern charmer, but he is still the villain. However, I promise you will be ok with it.
His origin story is tough, and Ivy's is no better. But what is not to love about 2 broken/damaged souls healing together?
I have loved Kayla's writing from the start. If you have not read anything of hers, you my friend are missing out.
Please be sure to read The Bone Reaper first though!
October 30, 2025
ARC Review
Earlier this year, I read The Bone Reaper and fell in love with The Southern Poisoner.
Hearing that Venom would be getting his own book can with joy and trepidation. Having devoured the story of Beauty finding his Beast, I am pleased to say that all of my expectations were met, including a few that I didn't know I had. the story, the art, the playlist... all perfection.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book. This has been an honest review, I don't rave about books that haven't hit the mark.
This one does.
Earlier this year, I read The Bone Reaper and fell in love with The Southern Poisoner.
Hearing that Venom would be getting his own book can with joy and trepidation. Having devoured the story of Beauty finding his Beast, I am pleased to say that all of my expectations were met, including a few that I didn't know I had. the story, the art, the playlist... all perfection.
Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book. This has been an honest review, I don't rave about books that haven't hit the mark.
This one does.
October 30, 2025
What can I say, I’m obsessed with these characters.
Everything about this book is amazing. The chemistry, the banter and how Venom and Ivy are just two poisonous beautiful plants in a greenhouse. I ate this story up like it was my last read. Also don’t get me started on venom he is one of my top book boyfriends now and was way before i got to read Venomous because from the little parts he was in while reading the bone reaper I knew he was already my type of guy. 🤭
Everything about this book is amazing. The chemistry, the banter and how Venom and Ivy are just two poisonous beautiful plants in a greenhouse. I ate this story up like it was my last read. Also don’t get me started on venom he is one of my top book boyfriends now and was way before i got to read Venomous because from the little parts he was in while reading the bone reaper I knew he was already my type of guy. 🤭
November 5, 2025
uuuuuuhhhg the ending had me in tears. this was amazingly addictive. I love Venom and Ivy. I cried some fat tears and I yelled "HELL YEAH!" at a certain part(revenge is amazing). I want more from them, from this world. i loved seeing the characters from the Bone weaver in there as well. I love the HEA
April 4, 2026
Boring - I need angst and drama
December 22, 2025
🐍ARC REVIEW🐍
“I’d gladly fall to my knees before you and beg if that’s what you want.”
Venomous by @enchanted.shelf
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kayla, you my friend know how to write the most unhinged men who fall at their woman’s feet…. Id literally crawl on glass to Venom.
This was chefs kiss. The chemistry, the pining, the banter 😘
The plot in this was phenomenal, and the darkness was just the perfect amount. These two were perfect for each other by pushing one another’s buttons giving us the best banter.
Venom is such an unhinged man & I was totally here for his witty banter & brooding attitude. He’s cool calm & collected. My sweet Ivy, she had such great character development. She had such a traumatic past & yet she became such a freaking queen. Yes, their story has some great spice, but the emotion through the darkness was so beautiful. Kayla really knows how to writes such beautiful stories.
Thank you Kayla for the copy. I really can’t wait to see what 2026 brings.
TROPES & TRIGGERS
🪴Dark Romance
🪴Hate To Love
🪴Assassin & Hitman
🪴Forced Proximity
🪴Found Family
🪴Poisoner
🪴Touch Her & ☠️
🪴Stabby FMC
🪴Captive x Capture
🪴🐍& 🔪 Play
🪴DubCon
🪴BDSM & Pain Play
🪴Obsession
🪴Revenge
🪴Morally Grey / Anti Hero
🪴Sadomasochist
🪴M*rder & Violence
🪴Physical Assault & Ab*se
🪴SA & NonCon (including of a minor (one scene shared in detail from past memory)
🪴Child Ab*se (by family)
🪴Human Trafficking
🪴HEA
#bookrecommendations #arcreader #darkromance #morallygrey
“I’d gladly fall to my knees before you and beg if that’s what you want.”
Venomous by @enchanted.shelf
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kayla, you my friend know how to write the most unhinged men who fall at their woman’s feet…. Id literally crawl on glass to Venom.
This was chefs kiss. The chemistry, the pining, the banter 😘
The plot in this was phenomenal, and the darkness was just the perfect amount. These two were perfect for each other by pushing one another’s buttons giving us the best banter.
Venom is such an unhinged man & I was totally here for his witty banter & brooding attitude. He’s cool calm & collected. My sweet Ivy, she had such great character development. She had such a traumatic past & yet she became such a freaking queen. Yes, their story has some great spice, but the emotion through the darkness was so beautiful. Kayla really knows how to writes such beautiful stories.
Thank you Kayla for the copy. I really can’t wait to see what 2026 brings.
TROPES & TRIGGERS
🪴Dark Romance
🪴Hate To Love
🪴Assassin & Hitman
🪴Forced Proximity
🪴Found Family
🪴Poisoner
🪴Touch Her & ☠️
🪴Stabby FMC
🪴Captive x Capture
🪴🐍& 🔪 Play
🪴DubCon
🪴BDSM & Pain Play
🪴Obsession
🪴Revenge
🪴Morally Grey / Anti Hero
🪴Sadomasochist
🪴M*rder & Violence
🪴Physical Assault & Ab*se
🪴SA & NonCon (including of a minor (one scene shared in detail from past memory)
🪴Child Ab*se (by family)
🪴Human Trafficking
🪴HEA
#bookrecommendations #arcreader #darkromance #morallygrey
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