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A Dream of the Forest
“Who do you want to be? The predator or the prey?”
Gideon
Ten years ago, Ivy Myste was dragged out of my life, and I’ve been waiting for her ever since. So when she moves into the farmhouse on the edge of my family’s East Texas estate, I’m already ready for her.
You see, there’s a darkness in these deep woods that’s haunted my family for decades. It’s already poisoned me and my brother.
And I’m the only one who can stop it from poisoning her, too.
Xavier
Gideon thinks he owns her. But Ivy is mine and always has been. I just need to claim her for good.
Now that she’s back in Texas, I have my chance. Gideon thinks he stands in my way. But he’s wrong.
That darkness he’s so afraid of? I know how to control it. How to use it to get what I want.
And what I want is Ivy Myste.
Ivy
All my life, I’ve dreamed of the Hartshorn estate, and the brothers who live there.
But when I inherit my estranged grandmother’s house, the last thing I expect is to reconnect with either of them.
Not strong and protective Gideon.
Not cruel and calculating Xavier.
But together, they leave a trail of blood and magic through the darkest parts of the forest.
And I have no choice but to follow.
A Dream of the Forest is the first book in the Court of the Earth duet. This two-part dark gothic horror romance story features paranormal elements, morally black MMCs, and an HEA. (Although please note that Book 1 ends on a cliffhanger).
It also contains material that some readers may find disturbing. Please review the full list of content notes on the author’s website.
Gideon
Ten years ago, Ivy Myste was dragged out of my life, and I’ve been waiting for her ever since. So when she moves into the farmhouse on the edge of my family’s East Texas estate, I’m already ready for her.
You see, there’s a darkness in these deep woods that’s haunted my family for decades. It’s already poisoned me and my brother.
And I’m the only one who can stop it from poisoning her, too.
Xavier
Gideon thinks he owns her. But Ivy is mine and always has been. I just need to claim her for good.
Now that she’s back in Texas, I have my chance. Gideon thinks he stands in my way. But he’s wrong.
That darkness he’s so afraid of? I know how to control it. How to use it to get what I want.
And what I want is Ivy Myste.
Ivy
All my life, I’ve dreamed of the Hartshorn estate, and the brothers who live there.
But when I inherit my estranged grandmother’s house, the last thing I expect is to reconnect with either of them.
Not strong and protective Gideon.
Not cruel and calculating Xavier.
But together, they leave a trail of blood and magic through the darkest parts of the forest.
And I have no choice but to follow.
A Dream of the Forest is the first book in the Court of the Earth duet. This two-part dark gothic horror romance story features paranormal elements, morally black MMCs, and an HEA. (Although please note that Book 1 ends on a cliffhanger).
It also contains material that some readers may find disturbing. Please review the full list of content notes on the author’s website.
- GenresDark RomanceSmut
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 6, 2025
I’m going to start off by saying Rose Bitterly writes AMAZING horror romance books! This book was suspenseful and the spicy scenes had me gasping out loud (and I’m usually pretty good at keeping a straight face while I’m reading). I loved the characters, especially how different the two brothers were and how they fought all the time was a little funny 😅 I flew through this book, I couldn’t put it down! The spice did not take away from the plot at all, the story was amazing. Don’t get me wrong, the spice was 10/10, especially at the end.
If you like horror and spicy books (best combination in my opinion) add this to your TBR!
If you like horror and spicy books (best combination in my opinion) add this to your TBR!
September 9, 2025
Once again, I cannot sing Rose’s praises enough!
Her writing is so emotive and visceral as she brings to life her characters and their relationships. Reading A Dream of the Forest echoed that feeling I had the first time reading Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, you become immersed in the world of Hartshorn and bear witness to the grotesque.
The story itself hits all the right spots for dark romance, and where I usually detest cliffhangers it feels right that we leave off as we do in the story (a continuation of that same unsettled feeling experienced throughout the book).
Thank you Rose, I absolutely loved your book.
Her writing is so emotive and visceral as she brings to life her characters and their relationships. Reading A Dream of the Forest echoed that feeling I had the first time reading Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, you become immersed in the world of Hartshorn and bear witness to the grotesque.
The story itself hits all the right spots for dark romance, and where I usually detest cliffhangers it feels right that we leave off as we do in the story (a continuation of that same unsettled feeling experienced throughout the book).
Thank you Rose, I absolutely loved your book.
September 7, 2025
oh my gosh, this book was scary, smutty and exhilarating. I had so much fun reading this and I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at the ending. I love Rose Bitterly’s dark romance (with erotic horror vibes), and when I read the blurb, I knew I had to read this. She definitely didn’t disappoint, and this may be one of her darkest books that I’ve read so far. I love all the dark witchy forest vibes, and all the cult rituals made it even delightfully creepier. I loved this plot, it was intense, eerie with strong romance and paranormal elements. I loved how the big physically stronger MMA fighter brother (Gideon) is the softer and sweeter one, while the thinner but manipulative younger brother Xavier is a sadist and pretty damn evil too. I loved both of them though Xavier is definitely the crazier one. His stuff even had me going “what the actual freak?!” Also please check your trigger warnings because yes there’s Watersports, iykyk. And honestly I’m still not too sure what they are yet and I’m damn anxious to find out. Ivy is ok, we just don’t get a lot from her, because there’s a lot of confusion and mind warping at work. But her chemistry with the guys in the Chapel ritual scene was undeniably amazing. Honestly, be warned! The villain might not be who you expected it to be… I really enjoyed this and give it a 4.5/5
September 7, 2025
It's been nine years, three weeks, and five days, and Ivy Myste has finally come back - Gideon.
Oh my God, Gideon!! 🥵
As you all know, witchy stories aren't usually my thing, but this book bewitched me in all the right ways 🪄 and somehow, your girl just fell straight into this one's spell 🧙♀️
From page one, Ivy's past keeps teasing. Fragments slip through her mind, real or imagined. Pieces of a life she barely remembers, or maybe never lived. Flashes that might be real, might be illusions. I don't know, but I can't turn away 🖤
And then these two men are fighting over her, each desperate to claim her as theirs. I can't shake the feeling that fate or something darker is pulling the strings, letting the shadows of darkness wrap around her heart, thrilling and tempting her at every turn ❤️🔥
Honestly, I can't stop flipping the pages, powerless against my curiosity and desperate to uncover all the secrets 😅
A 5☆ read, and if a scratch and a hint of crimson thrills you, then he's about to make obsession feels like a delicious wound you can't resist 🫦
⚠️ Proceed with caution. Check those trigger warnings. Your mental health matters 🌼
Add this gem to your TBR and summon all your courage to preorder 🪄 Trust me, it'll be worth every spellbinding page 🫶🏻
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this early 🖤 Can't wait to dive deeper into their world 🥰
Oh my God, Gideon!! 🥵
As you all know, witchy stories aren't usually my thing, but this book bewitched me in all the right ways 🪄 and somehow, your girl just fell straight into this one's spell 🧙♀️
From page one, Ivy's past keeps teasing. Fragments slip through her mind, real or imagined. Pieces of a life she barely remembers, or maybe never lived. Flashes that might be real, might be illusions. I don't know, but I can't turn away 🖤
And then these two men are fighting over her, each desperate to claim her as theirs. I can't shake the feeling that fate or something darker is pulling the strings, letting the shadows of darkness wrap around her heart, thrilling and tempting her at every turn ❤️🔥
Honestly, I can't stop flipping the pages, powerless against my curiosity and desperate to uncover all the secrets 😅
A 5☆ read, and if a scratch and a hint of crimson thrills you, then he's about to make obsession feels like a delicious wound you can't resist 🫦
⚠️ Proceed with caution. Check those trigger warnings. Your mental health matters 🌼
Add this gem to your TBR and summon all your courage to preorder 🪄 Trust me, it'll be worth every spellbinding page 🫶🏻
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this early 🖤 Can't wait to dive deeper into their world 🥰
September 16, 2025
This book is honestly so good. The only reason I didn't give it 5 Stars is because I HATE XAVIER. I have no issue with morally black/corrupt men. there's plenty that I love. my issue is that he only wanted Ivy for selfish reasons. He's like a daddy's money guy who never takes no for an answer. I usually love both men in a MFM but I cant with him. I hope she only chooses Gideon in the next one. Hell, I hope she chooses anyone but Xavier.
Things I loved about the book:
-folk-ish horror
-magic
-spice
-Gnocchi
-Gideon
Things I did not like about the book:
-XAVIER
Things I loved about the book:
-folk-ish horror
-magic
-spice
-Gnocchi
-Gideon
Things I did not like about the book:
-XAVIER
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
Dark, Magical, and Deliciously Twisted
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a repeat ARC reader for Rose Bitterly, and any time I get the chance, I sign up. Her Hunter’s Heart series hooked me, so when I saw she had a brand-new series with A Dream of the Forest, I was beyond excited to dive in. And honestly? She did not disappoint.
We’re introduced to Ivy Myste, who has just inherited her estranged grandmother’s house. From the start, there’s this eerie, enchanting vibe—flashbacks of a town Ivy doesn’t consciously remember, whispers of magic and forgotten memories, and of course, the promise of men who are more than they seem. Mystery? Magic? Hidden history tangled up with broody men? I was all in from page one.
Enter Gideon. He’s intense, magnetic, and tied to Ivy in a way she doesn’t fully remember—but he does. The long-buried feelings he harbors for her make their connection crackle from the very beginning. And then there’s Xavier, whose entrance is… let’s say, unforgettable. The tension between the brothers is thick, and neither is subtle about their desire for Ivy. I found myself torn right alongside her—Gideon feels like the one who could actually love her, while Xavier brings the kind of danger and fire that’s impossible to ignore.
Rose Bitterly has this talent for blending the whimsical and the wicked. Ivy’s side of the story has this ethereal quality, but it’s constantly shadowed by the darker undertones of Gideon and Xavier. That contrast is what keeps me coming back to Bitterly’s books. She writes romance that isn’t afraid to walk the edge, and this one leans into some intense tropes: secret societies, witchcraft, magic-induced amnesia, sibling rivalry, and a fair share of kinks. It’s definitely not a slow burn—things between Ivy and Gideon heat up fast—but it’s written in such a fluid, evocative way that it feels natural for the world and the characters.
As always, her prose is easy to sink into. It’s smooth, imaginative, and full of emotion. I kept highlighting passages because they pulled me deeper into this strange, secretive town. And even when the spice went places not everyone may be comfortable with, I appreciated how unflinchingly Bitterly leans into her stories.
By the end, I was left reeling. The cliffhanger is chef’s kiss—sharp, deliberate, and begging for the next installment. Ivy’s caught between two very different brothers, and I can’t wait to see how Rose Bitterly twists that tension into the next book. Dark, depraved, and utterly delicious—this is why I’ll keep reading anything she writes.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a repeat ARC reader for Rose Bitterly, and any time I get the chance, I sign up. Her Hunter’s Heart series hooked me, so when I saw she had a brand-new series with A Dream of the Forest, I was beyond excited to dive in. And honestly? She did not disappoint.
We’re introduced to Ivy Myste, who has just inherited her estranged grandmother’s house. From the start, there’s this eerie, enchanting vibe—flashbacks of a town Ivy doesn’t consciously remember, whispers of magic and forgotten memories, and of course, the promise of men who are more than they seem. Mystery? Magic? Hidden history tangled up with broody men? I was all in from page one.
Enter Gideon. He’s intense, magnetic, and tied to Ivy in a way she doesn’t fully remember—but he does. The long-buried feelings he harbors for her make their connection crackle from the very beginning. And then there’s Xavier, whose entrance is… let’s say, unforgettable. The tension between the brothers is thick, and neither is subtle about their desire for Ivy. I found myself torn right alongside her—Gideon feels like the one who could actually love her, while Xavier brings the kind of danger and fire that’s impossible to ignore.
Rose Bitterly has this talent for blending the whimsical and the wicked. Ivy’s side of the story has this ethereal quality, but it’s constantly shadowed by the darker undertones of Gideon and Xavier. That contrast is what keeps me coming back to Bitterly’s books. She writes romance that isn’t afraid to walk the edge, and this one leans into some intense tropes: secret societies, witchcraft, magic-induced amnesia, sibling rivalry, and a fair share of kinks. It’s definitely not a slow burn—things between Ivy and Gideon heat up fast—but it’s written in such a fluid, evocative way that it feels natural for the world and the characters.
As always, her prose is easy to sink into. It’s smooth, imaginative, and full of emotion. I kept highlighting passages because they pulled me deeper into this strange, secretive town. And even when the spice went places not everyone may be comfortable with, I appreciated how unflinchingly Bitterly leans into her stories.
By the end, I was left reeling. The cliffhanger is chef’s kiss—sharp, deliberate, and begging for the next installment. Ivy’s caught between two very different brothers, and I can’t wait to see how Rose Bitterly twists that tension into the next book. Dark, depraved, and utterly delicious—this is why I’ll keep reading anything she writes.
September 12, 2025
AMAZING READ FROM START TO FINISH!!!
Dark Romance Meets Supernatural..
** SMALL SPOILER AT THE END OF THIS REVIEW**
This author has a way of pulling you in from the start with her books. She did not disappoint with this one. The way she describes the scenery, surroundings, and characters makes you feel like you are part of that world. I was hooked before the end of the first chapter. If I say too much about the characters I will give away major spoilers. I will say Ivy, the MFC, isn’t a pushover which is something I can’t stand in books. Gideon and Xavier, the MMCs, are unhinged and obsessive when it comes to Ivy. The fact they are full grown men still terrified of their grandmother’s retributions is hilarious. The mysteries surrounding the Hartshorn House and all the characters are absorbing and compelling. The spicy scenes are just that- SPICY 🥵 🥵 🌶️ 🌶️. There is a perfect balance between the plot and spicy scenes. The book does end on a major cliffhanger and the second book can NOT come fast enough!!! It’s listed to come out March 13, 2026 and if it’s written as beautifully as this book I know the wait will be 100% worth it!!!
** SMALL SPOILER BELOW**
I’m anxious the entire length of a book if one of the characters has a 4 legged pet. If you are like me and get very emotional if the pet is harmed/dies just know that at the end of this book Gnocchi is alive and happy 😸
Dark Romance Meets Supernatural..
** SMALL SPOILER AT THE END OF THIS REVIEW**
This author has a way of pulling you in from the start with her books. She did not disappoint with this one. The way she describes the scenery, surroundings, and characters makes you feel like you are part of that world. I was hooked before the end of the first chapter. If I say too much about the characters I will give away major spoilers. I will say Ivy, the MFC, isn’t a pushover which is something I can’t stand in books. Gideon and Xavier, the MMCs, are unhinged and obsessive when it comes to Ivy. The fact they are full grown men still terrified of their grandmother’s retributions is hilarious. The mysteries surrounding the Hartshorn House and all the characters are absorbing and compelling. The spicy scenes are just that- SPICY 🥵 🥵 🌶️ 🌶️. There is a perfect balance between the plot and spicy scenes. The book does end on a major cliffhanger and the second book can NOT come fast enough!!! It’s listed to come out March 13, 2026 and if it’s written as beautifully as this book I know the wait will be 100% worth it!!!
** SMALL SPOILER BELOW**
I’m anxious the entire length of a book if one of the characters has a 4 legged pet. If you are like me and get very emotional if the pet is harmed/dies just know that at the end of this book Gnocchi is alive and happy 😸
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
This was absolutely the first time I had to sit and think, "Am I not the target audience?" And then in my ear I heard, "Excuse me, but how are you 𝘯𝘰𝘵 the target audience?" Like, wow, okay. After much thought, I realize the reaction was due to the combination of two extremes in one book—much more in one scene.
However, I will say that I did enjoy this book. It hit every aspect of what it was going for. The mystery surrounding the land, the voice rustling with the wind, and the compelling urge to listen when He calls. The secrets. Oh, the secrets. It never ended. Many questions unanswered, leading to much intrigue and tension coiling in your veins—rattling in your head, begging to be answered.
There was so much I did love about this. How nature comes alive with every push and pull. How human instinct tries to prevail when the illogical side always tends to go about their merry way. How the horrors are real. It comes in waves. A comment here, a nudge there—and it unravels and shows you the ugliest side against your will.
But you don't have a choice, do you? After all. You walked right into it. You wanted to know. And then comes the consequences of your own actions.
However, I will say that I did enjoy this book. It hit every aspect of what it was going for. The mystery surrounding the land, the voice rustling with the wind, and the compelling urge to listen when He calls. The secrets. Oh, the secrets. It never ended. Many questions unanswered, leading to much intrigue and tension coiling in your veins—rattling in your head, begging to be answered.
There was so much I did love about this. How nature comes alive with every push and pull. How human instinct tries to prevail when the illogical side always tends to go about their merry way. How the horrors are real. It comes in waves. A comment here, a nudge there—and it unravels and shows you the ugliest side against your will.
But you don't have a choice, do you? After all. You walked right into it. You wanted to know. And then comes the consequences of your own actions.
September 12, 2025
Omg I have no words! I wanna tell so much about this book, but I can't. You just need to read this for yourself. If you love an MFM, with lots of kinks, stalking/obsession, witchy folk horror, and murder family. This is your book!
Just the whole book. The writing. The story, The way it's built and the details. The characters. The spice. I absolutely loved it!
From chapter one, there are secrets and situations that happens and it kept me reading, wanting to know the answers.
The FMC's are brothers but couldn't be any more different from each other than they are. But they have one thing in common, Ivy.
Ivy feels a pull that takes her back to the place where her mother absolutely doesn't want her to go. But the pull is too strong, and no, I'm definitely not giving any spoiler, and she is definitely finding out why.
I did know there was a cliffhanger at the end of book 1. Do I like it definitely not haha thank you for this ARC opportunity, and I can't wait for the next book.
P.s. where can I find myself a Gideon
Just the whole book. The writing. The story, The way it's built and the details. The characters. The spice. I absolutely loved it!
From chapter one, there are secrets and situations that happens and it kept me reading, wanting to know the answers.
The FMC's are brothers but couldn't be any more different from each other than they are. But they have one thing in common, Ivy.
Ivy feels a pull that takes her back to the place where her mother absolutely doesn't want her to go. But the pull is too strong, and no, I'm definitely not giving any spoiler, and she is definitely finding out why.
I did know there was a cliffhanger at the end of book 1. Do I like it definitely not haha thank you for this ARC opportunity, and I can't wait for the next book.
P.s. where can I find myself a Gideon
September 14, 2025
A Dream of the Forest by Rose Bitterly is a gorgeously written, emotionally immersive tale that lingers long after the final page. Bitterly’s prose is lyrical and haunting, weaving a story that feels both intimate and mythic. The forest setting is richly atmospheric—almost sentient—and the way grief, memory, and longing are entwined with the natural world is breathtaking. I was completely absorbed by the quiet dread and aching beauty that permeate every chapter.
The characters are deeply flawed and painfully human, navigating trauma and secrets with raw vulnerability. Bitterly doesn’t shy away from darkness, but she renders it with such poetic grace that even the most unsettling moments feel strangely tender. If you love slow-burning, character-driven stories with a touch of the uncanny and a heavy dose of mood, this book is a must-read. It’s one of those rare novels that feels like a dream you’re not quite ready to wake from.
The characters are deeply flawed and painfully human, navigating trauma and secrets with raw vulnerability. Bitterly doesn’t shy away from darkness, but she renders it with such poetic grace that even the most unsettling moments feel strangely tender. If you love slow-burning, character-driven stories with a touch of the uncanny and a heavy dose of mood, this book is a must-read. It’s one of those rare novels that feels like a dream you’re not quite ready to wake from.
December 7, 2025
Another great horror romance by Rose Bitterly! I love the way the story unfolds. I loved the witchcraft element in this story, it definitely made things darker. I really loved Gideon. Yes, he’s this big, scary looking guy, but he truly loves Ivy and just wants to take care of her.
Then there’s Xavier. He’s the one part of this story I didn’t like lol. I get it’s why choose, but I do wish it had been more of a love triangle instead so she could choose Gideon. I mean, In her heart, she loves Gideon much more, and there’s more gentleness between them. Xavier is such a jerk to Ivy. I hate the way he talks to her and treats her. He seems to want her just to “win” rather than actually love her, whereas it’s clear Gideon loves her and gives her the choice of choosing just him or choosing both of them.
The cliffhanger was pretty crazy, but I am excited for the next book!
Then there’s Xavier. He’s the one part of this story I didn’t like lol. I get it’s why choose, but I do wish it had been more of a love triangle instead so she could choose Gideon. I mean, In her heart, she loves Gideon much more, and there’s more gentleness between them. Xavier is such a jerk to Ivy. I hate the way he talks to her and treats her. He seems to want her just to “win” rather than actually love her, whereas it’s clear Gideon loves her and gives her the choice of choosing just him or choosing both of them.
The cliffhanger was pretty crazy, but I am excited for the next book!
September 4, 2025
Okay, wow… A Dream of the Forest is everything I could want in a dark horror romance. From the first chapter, I was completely sucked into the eerie, witchy vibe of Hartshorn and the dangerous pull of the brothers who haunt it.
Gideon is the soft but secretly dangerous type (and ohhh, when that darkness shows 👀), while Xavier is pure chaos and cruelty in the most addictive way. The tension between them all is chef’s kiss.
The writing is hauntingly beautiful, the atmosphere feels like walking through a cursed forest at midnight, and the mix of blood, magic, and secrets kept me wanting more. And that cliffhanger?!! I need book two yesterday.
***check your trigger warnings.
thank you so much Rose Biterly for the gifted e arc
all opinions are my own.
Gideon is the soft but secretly dangerous type (and ohhh, when that darkness shows 👀), while Xavier is pure chaos and cruelty in the most addictive way. The tension between them all is chef’s kiss.
The writing is hauntingly beautiful, the atmosphere feels like walking through a cursed forest at midnight, and the mix of blood, magic, and secrets kept me wanting more. And that cliffhanger?!! I need book two yesterday.
***check your trigger warnings.
thank you so much Rose Biterly for the gifted e arc
all opinions are my own.
September 10, 2025
Wow! That’s all I can really say.
I’ve loved horror books since I was 8 years old and read my first Stephen King novel. Then I was introduced to dark romance as a teen. This book captured every ounce of interest and held it captive throughout. It really has the best of both worlds. The spice is a solid 10/10, especially as the story progresses. The plot is amazing and will keep you guessing.
I loved Gideon. I hated Xavier. I’m still not sure how I feel about Gloria and Judith. I have many questions and eagerly await the next book release.
Please, read the trigger warnings! There was one scene, specifically, that I was triggered by and I had to step back for a moment. Be aware of the type of book your are choosing to read.
I’ve loved horror books since I was 8 years old and read my first Stephen King novel. Then I was introduced to dark romance as a teen. This book captured every ounce of interest and held it captive throughout. It really has the best of both worlds. The spice is a solid 10/10, especially as the story progresses. The plot is amazing and will keep you guessing.
I loved Gideon. I hated Xavier. I’m still not sure how I feel about Gloria and Judith. I have many questions and eagerly await the next book release.
Please, read the trigger warnings! There was one scene, specifically, that I was triggered by and I had to step back for a moment. Be aware of the type of book your are choosing to read.
February 28, 2026
What an amazing read by Rose Bitterly. I'm not really familiar with this author's work, having only read one of her short stories in an anthology which I thoroughly enjoyed. This book is dark and twisted and so freaking good. The characters are so well defined. Gideon and Xavier are intense MMC's who have both loved the same girl since they were young. Ivy loved them both as well but now that she's an adult she can't seem to remember certain parts of her past. She's drawn to Hartshorn and she's drawn to Gideon and Xavier too. She just can't remember them. Will they claim her before her memory returns? You'll want to read this one to find out. It's full of darkness and magic and shadows and sacrifice. It'll definitely keep you turning the pages. I loved it!
September 10, 2025
I was provided a copy of this book for review.
This book was almost... almost a five star read and then the author wrote about one of the brothers urinating inside of the FMC. While the warnings include watersports (non consumption) I wasn't expecting that. It was my only real ick of the book that I pushed past it to finish.
I do wish that both brothers were getting equal affection (but that may be just me being more partial to Xavier.) I'm hoping that the second book (notes to be an HEA) ends well for all three of them and all three together.
excited for book two of this duology.
3.75/5
This book was almost... almost a five star read and then the author wrote about one of the brothers urinating inside of the FMC. While the warnings include watersports (non consumption) I wasn't expecting that. It was my only real ick of the book that I pushed past it to finish.
I do wish that both brothers were getting equal affection (but that may be just me being more partial to Xavier.) I'm hoping that the second book (notes to be an HEA) ends well for all three of them and all three together.
excited for book two of this duology.
3.75/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
And Rose did it again... left me with my mouth hanging open and questioning my sanity and my kinks! This book has now taken the place of best book of 2025!! The MMCs are both absolutely unhinged its like they try and compete on whos the most unhinged its amazing and so hot! The MFC is strong and pretty damn brave! The spice is so hot and definitely 5 chili peppers!! Rose this book is definitely chefs kiss,but you did us so wrong with that cliffhanger! I am drooling for more and can’t wait for the second book!!(Make sure you read the triggers!) ~Nikki PBW
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
And Rose did it again... left me with my mouth hanging open and questioning my sanity and my kinks! This book has now taken the place of best book of 2025!! The MMCs are both absolutely unhinged its like they try and compete on whos the most unhinged its amazing and so hot! The MFC is strong and pretty damn brave! The spice is so hot and definitely 5 chili peppers!! Rose this book is definitely chefs kiss,but you did us so wrong with that cliffhanger! I am drooling for more and can’t wait for the second book!!(Make sure you read the triggers!) ~Nikki PBW
September 8, 2025
I need book 2 now!
Rose Bitterly always makes me speechless with her writing.
I read all the trigger warnings, and I still wasn't prepared for what I just read.
This book definitely kept me on my toes, and I absolutely loved it.
Ivy is a teacher and just trying to make a living when she gets a call from her grandmother's landline. Unfortunately, her gran wasn't on the end of the other line.
Having now inherited her grans estate, she makes the time to visit Texas and stay for the weekend.
What transpired next was one hell of a ride.
I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did!
Rose Bitterly always makes me speechless with her writing.
I read all the trigger warnings, and I still wasn't prepared for what I just read.
This book definitely kept me on my toes, and I absolutely loved it.
Ivy is a teacher and just trying to make a living when she gets a call from her grandmother's landline. Unfortunately, her gran wasn't on the end of the other line.
Having now inherited her grans estate, she makes the time to visit Texas and stay for the weekend.
What transpired next was one hell of a ride.
I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did!
May 11, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ - I’m not sure how to rate this. I feel a little like this was a fever dream. This is a super dark, twisted mess. Very spicy. I would say it’s southern gothic with a disturbing god-worshipping cult. I kind of went in blind but was drawn to it because I love gothic romance and why choose. I think the fact that I read it quickly speaks to how much it sucked me in. It’s really weird but also, I had to know what happens. So yeah, I’m giving this 4.5 stars for messing with my mind and making me need to know what happens in book 2.
September 13, 2025
This was so freaking good! I’ve read all of Rose’s books and it seems like they get better and better each time. I love that this one is a duet so we get more time with the characters and the story. Ivy is kind of dumb but I still love her and her men. This is very dark so please read the triggers before reading it. I’m super excited for the next book.
✝️Cult/Murd3r family
💞MFM
🖤Dark Romance
🧠Amnesia
🔮Magic
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
✝️Cult/Murd3r family
💞MFM
🖤Dark Romance
🧠Amnesia
🔮Magic
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
February 12, 2026
Ok, first of all - DAYUM THAT CLIFFHANGER UGHH. But what a hauntingly delicious novel. It felt like a fever dream and with Rose’s way of writing you just feel sooo immersed in the world whether you want to be or not. Horror vibes? Check! Smug vibes? Triple check! Story? So good. TBR pile worthy of sure.
September 12, 2025
I loved it so so so much, the writing is captivating. I adored the characters so much. The author really wraps you up into this world. It's dark, creepy and romantic. She made such interesting characters and she just set this series up to be amazing. I can not wait for the second book.
September 16, 2025
Sure an amazing book. A little slow in the beginning but I could not put it down for the 2nd half! I look forward to the next book. Rose Bitterly is such a great writer, she can really pull you into a story and make you feel like what the characters are feeling.
September 28, 2025
Oh this book was additive! Rose Bitterly has done an amazing job in creating this dark and eerie horror romance.
I loved the plot it is definitely interesting and characters were also really well written.
So many elements had me glued to the pages. Witchy forest vibes blended with enemies to lovers (and lovers to enemies), why choose (MFM, two brothers), cult rituals, and an interesting take of fated mates this is a must read for lovers of dark and mysterious.
Can’t praise it enough and after the cliffhanger ending I’m excited to see more in the next book
I loved the plot it is definitely interesting and characters were also really well written.
So many elements had me glued to the pages. Witchy forest vibes blended with enemies to lovers (and lovers to enemies), why choose (MFM, two brothers), cult rituals, and an interesting take of fated mates this is a must read for lovers of dark and mysterious.
Can’t praise it enough and after the cliffhanger ending I’m excited to see more in the next book
September 14, 2025
RESPECTFULLY. WTF DID I JUST READ! AND WHY DID IT END LIKE THAT!
ROSE DID IT ONCE AGAIN AND COMPLETELY BLEW MY MIND, IM SPEECHLESS.
THIS IS NOW MY MOST FAVORITE READ OF 2025 IF NOT EVER AND IT'S DEFINITELY THE PERFECT BOOK TO KICK OFF THE SPOOKY SEASON WITH!!
ROSE DID IT ONCE AGAIN AND COMPLETELY BLEW MY MIND, IM SPEECHLESS.
THIS IS NOW MY MOST FAVORITE READ OF 2025 IF NOT EVER AND IT'S DEFINITELY THE PERFECT BOOK TO KICK OFF THE SPOOKY SEASON WITH!!
June 21, 2026
Ivy, Gideon, Xavier.
Was excited to receive an ARC for this book and for me Rose Bitterly can do no wrong, and this does not disappoint. I love a spooky season book and this is the perfect bridge between the end of summer and beginning of spooky time.
We meet Ivy, a young woman who out of the blue gets a call that her estranged grandmother has died and has left her house in East Texas to Ivy. Ivy, who has very little memory of ever spending time at her grandmother’s house, heads there and re-meets the residents of the neighboring house. She barely remembers them from her childhood but she has an undeniable connection to both brothers and the Hartshorn property.
Also I love a why choose so this hit.
Was excited to receive an ARC for this book and for me Rose Bitterly can do no wrong, and this does not disappoint. I love a spooky season book and this is the perfect bridge between the end of summer and beginning of spooky time.
We meet Ivy, a young woman who out of the blue gets a call that her estranged grandmother has died and has left her house in East Texas to Ivy. Ivy, who has very little memory of ever spending time at her grandmother’s house, heads there and re-meets the residents of the neighboring house. She barely remembers them from her childhood but she has an undeniable connection to both brothers and the Hartshorn property.
Also I love a why choose so this hit.
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