Monsters Masks & Mayhem

by Deann Soleil, M. Mitchell, E.N. Chanting

Mystery. Thrill. Desire. Temptation.
In the breathless hush of Halloween’s darkness, where masks conceal and shadows sigh, unseen monsters drift closer… and mayhem begins.

Monsters Masks & Mayhem is a charity anthology comprised of stories from various authors.

All proceeds from both the e-book and paperback will be donated to RAINN.

Monsters Masks & Mayhem includes stories from the following
Deann Soleil

Alicia Ramos
K.iller
Emily Klepp
Lily Anh Nam
MJ Keyes
Aryn Alyssabeth
Lillier Eros
Constantina Cristi
L.V Hernandez
EN Chanting
Megan Russ
Hollis Kay
M.M. Riott
Arianna Barton
Liza Bee
Isla Starling
Mae K. Knight
KM Rogness

719 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2025

About the author

Deann Soleil is a self-published author based in Virginia who focuses on writing forbidden romances. When not writing, she is a full-time social worker who works with victims of community violence to help them overcome their traumatic experiences. 

If you’re looking for short, fast-paced books, then look no further. 

Reviews

[Theughost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, this anthology was amazing! There were so many great authors and stories! I loved the concept of having multiple short stories in one book and will definitely be doing a re-read someday. The fact that I got to both beta and ARC read it only made it so much better! 🥹

This is an anthology which goes to the charity RAINN, if you don’t know what that is I highly recommend checking them out and I feel proud to have been a part of the process by beta & arc reading this anthology. Knowing it goes to a good cause just makes my heart melt. ❤️ it’s definitely a 5/5⭐️ read and I found both stories I loved, enjoyed and just felt wasn’t my type. But that’s what’s so fun with how mixed the stories are! And you really see how each author has their own style and voice! It’s really amazingly written and I found multiple stories sticking to me. Like please tell me we’re getting more of Astrid and Kenji who are from Lilyan Ham’s story “corrupt vows.”! Absolutely in love. But there were also so many others that caught my eye.

It had me giggling like a little girl but also sitting on the edge of my seat. Every story brought something new to the book and it was just absolutely amazing. So if this sounds like something you’d want to read I highly suggest reading it! Most were around 7-10 chapters but some could be less and more. But they are all short stories! Which made it super fun to read! So thank you for getting to ARC read this masterpiece! Go all authors who wrote a story! You’re amazing and I hope to see more stories from everyone involved!

[Laci · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ ARC Review ⭐

I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced reader’s copy of Monsters, Masks, and Mayhem, and I’m sharing my honest thoughts voluntarily. 🔥

First off, I have to highlight that 100% of the proceeds go to RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. It’s incredible to see a spine-tingling, chaotic collection also supporting such an important cause. 💜

Monsters, Masks, and Maybem releases on Halloween! 👻🖤

This anthology features multiple authors, each bringing their own unique voice and energy. From twisted and mysterious to unhinged, spicy, and downright chaotic — there’s something here for every dark fiction lover. Every story hooked me, each carrying its own tension, temptation, and eerie atmosphere that made it impossible to put down.

If you’re hunting for the perfect spooky season read, Monsters, Masks, and Mayhem should be at the top of your list. Red flags appear so often they practically turn green 😉 this is danger, intrigue, and deliciously dark fun all in one unforgettable collection.

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling collection of 17 spooky short stories, full of dark spice, haunting love, and unhinged characters.
This has primal chases, masked stalkers, hauntings, murderers, ghosts, demons, circus scares, and plenty of possessive, obsessive, and deranged MMC's.
If you like dark romance, erotic horror, and the paranormal and occult, this is the anthology to read.


"The Graveyard Party" by Deann Soeil

"UnWholly Night" by Alicia Ramos

"Morbid Fascination" by K. iller

"The Depths of Blackwater" by Emily Klepp

"Corrupt Vows" by Lily Anh Nam

"Look Closer" by MJ Keyes

"Lydia" by Aryn Alyssabeth

"Will You Scream? Jeepers and Tara" by Lillier Eros

"Ghosted on Shadow Wood Court" by Constantina Cristi

"Toiling for Trouble" by E N Chanting

"Friend of Jack" by Megan Russ

"Scored" by Hollis Kay

"Son of Sin: a Halloween short story" by M M Riott

"How to Lose Your Head on the First Date" by Liza Bee

"Mephisto’s Guest" by Mae K Knight

"Ophelia" by KM Rogness

"The Shadows" by Abby Woodland

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ophelia by K.M. Rogness ARC Review from Monsters, Masks, and Mayhem: A Halloween Charity Anthology

“She went into prison innocent… and came out craving blood.”

Wrongly convicted. Broken by betrayal. Reborn behind bars.

Ophelia’s story is pitch black erotic horror — a brutal mix of vengeance, obsession, and blood-stained desire.

When two guards cross every forbidden line, lust becomes survival and justice turns savage.

This story isn’t about redemption.
It’s about reclamation — and Ophelia claims every inch of it in blood.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology is full of 17 of the best spooky Halloween reads. Each one is short, spooky and spicy. I loved each of them so much. You will get a little of everything, from ghosts to demons, to stalkers and a little primal. And as always, obsessive, possessive men.

And all of the proceeds go to RAINN!

[OooLaLa Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, Dirty, and for a Good Cause

OMG Besties… this anthology is Halloween perfection! "Monsters Masks & Mayhem" serves up mystery, heat, and pure chaos! There are 17 short stories... each story darker and spicier than the last. From "The Graveyard Party" to "Ophelia", every author brings something twisted, s€xy, and haunting. Plus, 100% of proceeds go to RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-s€xual viol€nce organization, so you can indulge your dark side for a cause. Spooky, steamy, and unputdownable... this one’s a must-read treat!

The short stories & authors:
1- The Graveyard Party by Deann Soleil
2- UnWholly Night by Alicia Ramos
3- Morbid Fascination by K. Iller
4- The Depths of Blackwater by Emily Klepp
5- Corrupt Vows by Lily Anh Nam
6- Look Closer by M.J. Keyes
7- Lydia by Aryn Alyssabeth
8- Will You Scream? by Lillier Eros
9- Ghosted on Shadow Wood Court by Constantina Cristi
10- Toiling for Trouble by E.N. Chanting
11- Friend of Jack by Megan Russ
12- Scored by Hollis Kay
13- Son of Sin by M.M. Riott
14- How to Lose Your Head on the First Date by Liza Bee
15- Mephisto’s Guest by Mae K. Knight
16- Ophelia: A Pitch Black Erotic Horror by KM Rogness
17- The Shadows by Abby Woodland

My Ratings: ⭐ 5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 Varies

🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤

[Asulley4785 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Monsters Masks & Mayhem! From the very first page, I was completely drawn into this world where Halloween’s spooky charm meets dark, irresistible romance. The story kept me turning pages, full of twists, passion, and secrets hiding just beneath the surface.
What I really loved was how real and complex the characters felt. Each one had layers that made them intriguing, and I found myself rooting for them—even when their choices were risky or shocking. Soleil’s writing is so immersive that I could feel the tension, excitement, and even the eeriness of the masked chaos around them.
On top of that, knowing that all proceeds go to RAINN made this read feel even more meaningful. It’s rare to find a story that’s not only entertaining but also supports such an important cause.
If you love dark romance with a touch of suspense, mystery, and a bit of supernatural flair, this book is absolutely worth reading. I finished it feeling thrilled, satisfied, and already looking forward to what Deann Soleil writes next!

I received this as an ARC copy and this is my honest review.

[Crystal Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! I love a good anthology and this one was packed full or dark, creepy, unhinged, and ghostly goodness. Each story lured you in right away and had you begging for more when it came to an end. I love the dark romance, the intense passion, the unhinged moments, twists and turns along the way, and lots of spice. 17 amazing stories full of chases, unhinged men, primal chases, paranormal activity, some witches, demons and so much more.

I really loved that all proceeds go to RAINN, helping survivors of sexual violence. Makes this read all that more special and important.

"The Graveyard Party" by Deann Soeil
"UnWholly Night" by Alicia Ramos
"Morbid Fascination" by K. iller
"The Depths of Blackwater" by Emily Klepp
"Corrupt Vows" by Lily Anh Nam
"Look Closer" by MJ Keyes
"Lydia" by Aryn Alyssabeth
"Will You Scream? Jeepers and Tara" by Lillier Eros
"Ghosted on Shadow Wood Court" by Constantina Cristi
"Toiling for Trouble" by E N Chanting
"Friend of Jack" by Megan Russ
"Scored" by Hollis Kay
"Son of Sin: a Halloween short story" by M M Riott
"How to Lose Your Head on the First Date" by Liza Bee
"Mephisto's Guest" by Mae K Knight
"Ophelia" by KM Rogness
"The Shadows" by Abby Woodland

[Darkstellarlove · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first chilling tale to the last tantalising twist, *Monsters, Masks & Mayhem* delivers a Halloween-perfect blend of suspense, romance and darkness. The range of voices and styles keeps the anthology fresh and compelling:
Authors deliver short-form stories with satisfying emotional hooks, pleasingly dramatic beats and just enough horror to send a thrill down your spine.
The tone is clever — it doesn’t rely solely on gore but uses masks, secrets and monsters as metaphors for what’s hidden in the dark corners of desire and fear.
If there’s a minor caveat, it’s that with so many contributors, the quality and tone do vary. A few stories lean more romance-heavy than horror-heavy, which may surprise readers expecting a consistent terror ride. But for me, that variety is a strength — it gives something for both dark-romance fans and horror aficionados.
In all, this anthology is a crisp, fun, slightly twisted ride for the season. I’d happily recommend it to anyone looking for a spooky read that still delivers on emotion, atmosphere and style.

[MorallyDarkReadz · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Monsters, Masks, & Mayhem was the perfect Halloween read. It’s dark, sexy, mysterious, and full of twisted little tales that kept me hooked from the first page. Every story had its own vibe, some haunting, some hot, and all of them perfectly chaotic.

The mix of monsters, temptation, and danger was everything I wanted for spooky season. The writing pulled me in, and the spice? Yeah, these authors did not hold back. It was fun, eerie, and seductive all at once.

What makes this anthology even better is that it’s for an incredible cause. All proceeds go to RAINN, helping survivors of sexual violence, which makes it even more powerful and meaningful to read.

If you love dark romance with a little fear, a lot of temptation, and stories that make your heart race, this is one you can’t miss.

💫 5/5 stars
🔥 5/5 spice
Monsters, masks, and pure mayhem. The perfect mix of thrill and heat.

[Leslie Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is WOW!!! Monsters. Masks & Mayhem is a book that has sooo many small stories from some amazing Authors is PERFECT!! The compilation are perfect for the SPOOKY season. I dare say that they can even be read through out the year. Some of the stories made me giggle with the characters banter. I love that some of the. Stories are just quick preliminary intro to alater book from the perspective author.

I would like to add the each story has its own layer of complexity characters and the story line kept me engaged. Honestly I could not put this book down. It is truly perfect for my lifestyle, which is fast and chaotic. So I was able to read a story or two or. Three more and. Then comeback and read some more.

The icing for on the cake or the cherry on top, ALL proceeds of Monsters, Masks & Mayhem RAINN!!

So go support this book! Read it, buy it, talk about it. ETC

Excellent and. Meaningful Read

[Darian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Monsters, Masks, and Mayhem just really is the perfect read for a spooky season. The authors that put this together to give us a wonderful collection of 17 short stories did such a great job. I truly don’t know how to fully review this. This was filled with darkness, spice and added in a perfect blend of horror and paranormal. You definitely get a little bit of everything in this anthology; from your ghosts to demons, your stalkers and add in a little primal play. We can’t forget those obsessive, possessive, touch her and… type of men.
I loved that they were all short reads made getting through them fun and gave you a taste of so many author’s writing styles. I enjoyed that some authors took the route of making just a short story and others may just leave you hanging and wanting more! They really did a great job with this anthology and it was so exciting that this was my first one I’ve read and you definitely need to read it!
And all the proceeds go to RAINN!

[MaRissa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy I got the chance to read this.

I highly recommend this spooky, spicy anthology for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit with some spice. Each story brings something different to the table, filled with heat, twists, engaging plots, and great characters that keep you hooked.

What makes this book even more special is that it features a range of authors, each adding their own unique touch and creativity. It’s not just a collection of different short stories, but a collaboration of wonderful authors. Even better, all proceeds from this anthology go to RAINN, which adds an extra layer of meaning and purpose to the read.

Every author did an incredible job, and I truly enjoyed reading this. Just be sure to check the trigger warnings before you start, as some stories are dark.

[Christie Wilcox · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:
This anthology was great! There were so many great authors and stories! I loved the concept of having multiple short stories in one book.

The short stories & authors:
1- The Graveyard Party by Deann Soleil
2- UnWholly Night by Alicia Ramos
3- Morbid Fascination by K. Iller
4- The Depths of Blackwater by Emily Klepp
5- Corrupt Vows by Lily Anh Nam
6- Look Closer by M.J. Keyes
7- Lydia by Aryn Alyssabeth
8- Will You Scream? by Lillier Eros
9- Ghosted on Shadow Wood Court by Constantina Cristi
10- Toiling for Trouble by E.N. Chanting
11- Friend of Jack by Megan Russ
12- Scored by Hollis Kay
13- Son of Sin by M.M. Riott
14- How to Lose Your Head on the First Date by Liza Bee
15- Mephisto’s Guest by Mae K. Knight
16- Ophelia: A Pitch Black Erotic Horror by KM Rogness
17- The Shadows by Abby Woodland

[Chaotic Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an awesome anthology filled with so many talented authors.
Jammed packed with 17 short stories where each author has created a variety of unique dark, delicious, unhinged and spooky stories absolutely perfect for the Spook-tober season.
There is definitely something for everyone within the pages which had me absolutely hooked.
All in all a fantastic read and all for a great cause.
Each story has its own TW/CW so be mindful of those before diving in.


Stories Include:
The Graveyard Party - Deann Soleil
UnWholly Nights - Alicia Ramos
Morbid Fascination - K.iller
The Depths of Blackwater - Emily Klepp
Corrupt Vows - Lily Anh Nam
Look Closer - MJ Keyes
Lydia - Aryn Alyssabeth
Will You Scream? - Lillier Eros
Ghosted on Shadow Wood Court - Constantina Cristi
Toiling for Trouble - E.N. Chanting
Friend of Jack - Megan Russ
Scored - Hollis Kay
Son of Sin - M.M. Riott
How to Lose Your Head on the First Date - Liza Bee
Mephisto’s Guest - Mae K. Knight
Opehlia - KM Rogness
The Shadows - Abby Woodland

[Charlys Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Monsters, Masks & Mayhem is the perfect Halloween anthology, dark, seductive, and filled with just the right amount of chaos. Every story pulls you somewhere new: into haunted mansions, twisted love stories, dangerous games, and shadows that feel far too alive. Some stories make your heart race; others make it ache.

What makes this collection stand out is its balance, it’s not just about thrills and spice, but also the deeper emotions hiding beneath the masks. And knowing that 100% of proceeds go to RAINN makes every page feel even more meaningful. This isn’t just an anthology you read for the chills; it’s one you read to feel something.

🖤 Fav tropes you’ll find:
🎭 Touch her & ☠️
🩸 Primal play
💀 Forbidden desire
🔥 Dark secrets
🌒 Hidden monsters & haunting hearts

[Mariah Ayala · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology was such a wild, haunting ride! 🖤
A collection of 17 spooky short stories packed with dark spice, twisted love, and unhinged characters that kept me hooked from start to finish.

Each story brings something different — from primal chases and masked stalkers to demons, and circus horrors — and somehow it all works so well together. I loved how every story felt like its own little nightmare wrapped in desire.

The MMCs? Possessive, obsessive, deranged… basically everything I look for in a dark read 😈

If you love dark romance, erotic horror, and paranormal/occult themes, this anthology needs to be on your list. It’s chaotic, sexy, and a perfect read for spooky season (or honestly, any time of year).

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I only recently started on my "monster" romance journey!
What better way to continue that journey than with an anthology by many different authors!
Some are new to me, and some are favorites!

I love that these are one-sitting reads.

You can choose to read as many or as few as you like!
I split it up, reading one to two per evening!
What a delicious way to say goodnight.
Unless, of course, you're afraid of the dark, monsters in the closet, or under the bed!

Delicious.
Dark.
Captivating!

Like parents with their children, there is no way I'm going to name a favorite!
Each story was totally enjoyable, oh, and hot!

[Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monsters, Masks, and Maybem releases on Halloween! 👻🖤

This anthology is a collabiration with 17 amazing authors and all the proceeds are going to the charity RAINN

Each of the stories in this antholology are short but beautifully written, each individual story is uniquely diffrent some darker than others

Unhinged charaters

Stalking

Murder

Paranormal

Dark romamce

Erotic horror

Possesive & obsessive characters

I cant lie there were 1 or 2 that i really struggled with but i loved the variety and that theres something to suit each persons taste of dark

Definatly check your triggers

And prepare for an emotional rollercoaster

[Faiza BEGUM · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ - 5
🌶️ - 5

Idk how should I describe this book with words cause im speechless 🫠.

Monsters Masks & Mayhen anthology is the perfect read for spooky season. This book is filled with spice, twist, plot, fun and what not. I just couldn’t put this book down without finishing it. All those best books putting together was a great idea. And I was lucky enough to be able to read this book and enjoyed my spooky weeks 👻. I’m in love with this one.

People are gonna love this one. And I would recommend it to everyone.

[Lianna Belle]

What a ride!

This anthology is so well put together! Each story is unique, thrilling and some see downright scary at times! I'm familiar with a few authors who participated in this and others are new to me. It was very great to be introduced to new writers, especially in a format like this! The best Halloween read I've read so far. Highly recommend to anyone who's after some dark, spooky vibes.

[valley_girl_36 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out now !! This charity anthology is packed with dark and dirty short stories. There are 17 stories in all by different authors. This is the perfect pick up for just a sampling of these authors and certainly a great way to be introduced to a new to you writer. There are certainly a few new to me writers I will be seeking out more books from. Thrilling and spicy short reads easy to pickup and finish in a sitting!!

[Kenadhe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading an anthology and introducing new authors to my list. The only downside is waiting for the books to come out for the short stories that left off in cliffhangers. Which happens in this book, these Halloween stories were a great holiday read and I am now waiting for some of these characters to get their books. I do recommend reading it, I wish I could have a physical copy and not just the ebook.

[Micki-D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Monsters Masks & Mayhem is a charity anthology comprised of stories from various authors. If no other reason get it for that.

This was a good anthology from some great authors. It was a fun entertaining read with mystery, passion, temptation, & more. I always enjoy reading stories from authors I've yet to be introduced to it’s nice to find someone new to read. I cant wait to read some full length stories from new authors I discovered.

[Read, Run and Rescue · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great collection of short and sweet sometimes spicy stories. Each writer took a different approach and I really appreciated that we weren’t reading the same thing over and over. Mind your triggers some of them get a bit darker than others. I think the first story was my favorite but they were all really good.

[Cookiereadsalot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology had so many amazing stories by some of the most incredible authors! Every single story had you intrigued, and some even have me excited to read the full book because I needed more! They are also donating all proceeds to the RAINN foundation, which I absolutely loved, and a big reason why I wanted to support this anthology! You will not be disappointed in reading this!

[Dark Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great anthology for spooky season! And I love that the proceeds go to RAINN.

The short stories were all excellent, and we've got a bit of everything for the season, including some of my favorites - masked stalkers, primal chases, circus scenes, and unhinged MMCs. So much spice, and it was such a fun read to get me in the mood for the spookiest time of the year.

[Michelle Shamy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC of this amazing book and the even more amazing cause!

The dark, twisted, and hauntingly wickedness of this, was just being awesome! I loved every story in this. I loved the originality from each author, and all the craziness that they brought to put this together. A true masterpiece for those who love horror, twisted, and dark things.

[M3Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this collection of stories. Filled with men who are obsessed, possessive, protective, and willing to burn the world for the woman they love.
And the fact that all proceeds go to RAINN makes it even better. Who says you can't be charitable and depraved?

Check your TW, they vary but are listed before each story.

[Harley · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it!!

I love how there are mini novellas and different authors

So not only are we sticking with the theme of things you’re getting the chance to be introduced to a bunch of talented authors

I really enjoyed and A lot of the stories leave you needing more!

Highly recommend