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Velvet Thorns
Ten years ago, Phoenix Cassidy ripped my heart out and left me humiliated.
Tonight, I’m here to return the favor.
It’s Halloween.
One night.
One school reunion.
One perfectly laid trap.
I disappeared after what he did. I changed my name, buried the past, and swore I’d never let him touch a single part of me again. But standing in front of him again, it all comes rushing back.
The ache.
The betrayal.
The fire.
He doesn’t recognize the girl he destroyed. But by the time tonight ends, he’ll remember everything.
Tonight, I’m here to return the favor.
It’s Halloween.
One night.
One school reunion.
One perfectly laid trap.
I disappeared after what he did. I changed my name, buried the past, and swore I’d never let him touch a single part of me again. But standing in front of him again, it all comes rushing back.
The ache.
The betrayal.
The fire.
He doesn’t recognize the girl he destroyed. But by the time tonight ends, he’ll remember everything.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
49 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
February 25, 2026
Are you looking for high tension, fast paced novella that will have you giggling but also brings the spice? Here it is! @learose has gone to the dark side and I could not be happier about it!
When I say I devoured this arc... I mean I ate it all up in one sitting and left no crumbs.
The one liners had me giggling and the chemistry was off the charts. I've got 49 highlights and this book is short 🙈
Honestly, Pheonix is the ultimate morally grey MMC. Think Kade Mitchell vibes 🫣 and you know I don't say that lightly! I loved this sooooo much! I'm not sure how I'm going to hold out till book two!
You've got:
🖤 stalking
🖤 revenge
🖤 obsession
🖤 novella
🖤 secret tattoo
You can read it yourself on the 1st October! Trust me, you don't want to sleep on this one!
***I'll be back with a review once I pull myself together again 🫣😂
When I say I devoured this arc... I mean I ate it all up in one sitting and left no crumbs.
The one liners had me giggling and the chemistry was off the charts. I've got 49 highlights and this book is short 🙈
Honestly, Pheonix is the ultimate morally grey MMC. Think Kade Mitchell vibes 🫣 and you know I don't say that lightly! I loved this sooooo much! I'm not sure how I'm going to hold out till book two!
You've got:
🖤 stalking
🖤 revenge
🖤 obsession
🖤 novella
🖤 secret tattoo
You can read it yourself on the 1st October! Trust me, you don't want to sleep on this one!
***I'll be back with a review once I pull myself together again 🫣😂
December 29, 2025
This book was absolutely awesome. Even though it was short with only 12 chapters I didn't miss a beat of the plot. This book has everything. Yearning, stalking, female rage, and obsession wrapped up in desperation. I. AM. HOOKED.
Phoenix- I don't think unhinged isn't enough to define him and his desire for Shannon. His desire for her is unmatched in anything I have read yet.
Shannon-She is empowerment wrapped up in fiery red hair and her sinful looks. I love her fight and her determination to make something of herself. She is definitely a perfect match for her Phoenix.
5/5 ⭐️ 5/5 🌶️ (There was very little to almost no scenes since he is a virgin but let me tell you the TENSION is erotic so for me I rated it 5/5 for spicy level when there is literally no scenes between them.)
Phoenix- I don't think unhinged isn't enough to define him and his desire for Shannon. His desire for her is unmatched in anything I have read yet.
Shannon-She is empowerment wrapped up in fiery red hair and her sinful looks. I love her fight and her determination to make something of herself. She is definitely a perfect match for her Phoenix.
5/5 ⭐️ 5/5 🌶️ (There was very little to almost no scenes since he is a virgin but let me tell you the TENSION is erotic so for me I rated it 5/5 for spicy level when there is literally no scenes between them.)
September 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lea rose does it again!!!
Note: before reading please make sure to check the trigger warnings
When Shannen has her chance to confront all those from high school at a Halloween themed reunion she doesn’t pass it up. But little does she know what she is really walking into.
The tension between Phoenix and Shannen 🥵🥵
I am completely OBSESSED with phoenix.
The obsession.
The unhinged
The hurt her and you die vibes
BUT the cliffhanger is just rude. Now I have to wait?!
“You know that’s not our safe word.” OOF the way my mouth dropped open! 😏
This isn’t lust. It’s a sickness. It’s years of silence and pain, twisted up in his relentless, psychotic obsession and my own desperate need to feel something that isn’t hollow.“
Tropes:
💀friends to enemies
💀st@alker
💀novella
💀revenge
💀masked FMC
Lea rose does it again!!!
Note: before reading please make sure to check the trigger warnings
When Shannen has her chance to confront all those from high school at a Halloween themed reunion she doesn’t pass it up. But little does she know what she is really walking into.
The tension between Phoenix and Shannen 🥵🥵
I am completely OBSESSED with phoenix.
The obsession.
The unhinged
The hurt her and you die vibes
BUT the cliffhanger is just rude. Now I have to wait?!
“You know that’s not our safe word.” OOF the way my mouth dropped open! 😏
This isn’t lust. It’s a sickness. It’s years of silence and pain, twisted up in his relentless, psychotic obsession and my own desperate need to feel something that isn’t hollow.“
Tropes:
💀friends to enemies
💀st@alker
💀novella
💀revenge
💀masked FMC
February 24, 2026
If you’re looking for the perfect, dark romance, halloween novella … look no further is is the ONE
Our MCs are high school best friends, but our MMC Phoenix abandons her when he becomes the quarterback choses popularity over her.
10 years later Shannen receives an invite to a high school reunion, and she sees it as the perfect opportunity to seek some light revenge - showing her bullies how far she has come, and how successful she is.
Her fire, sass and strength is incredible, Lea is able to tread the line between hate and love so well, that you’re left second guessing everything. With secrets unveiled and boundaries pushed, I could not put this down and oh my god I cannot wait for book 2 ?!!
I adore everything Lea writes, this is no different but with the new genre switch I was surprised how much i loved this considering its a novella, Lea is able to draw emotions, character depth and betrayal out so easily.
Velvet Thorns is out October 1st
“We’re bound by something darker than love, something stronger than death, and if the world ends tomorrow, I’ll die with her name on my lips. And whatever comes after, whether it’s fire or oblivion or whatever version of the afterlife l’ve got to look forward to, I’ll still be looking for her because letting her go was never part of the story.”
Our MCs are high school best friends, but our MMC Phoenix abandons her when he becomes the quarterback choses popularity over her.
10 years later Shannen receives an invite to a high school reunion, and she sees it as the perfect opportunity to seek some light revenge - showing her bullies how far she has come, and how successful she is.
Her fire, sass and strength is incredible, Lea is able to tread the line between hate and love so well, that you’re left second guessing everything. With secrets unveiled and boundaries pushed, I could not put this down and oh my god I cannot wait for book 2 ?!!
I adore everything Lea writes, this is no different but with the new genre switch I was surprised how much i loved this considering its a novella, Lea is able to draw emotions, character depth and betrayal out so easily.
Velvet Thorns is out October 1st
“We’re bound by something darker than love, something stronger than death, and if the world ends tomorrow, I’ll die with her name on my lips. And whatever comes after, whether it’s fire or oblivion or whatever version of the afterlife l’ve got to look forward to, I’ll still be looking for her because letting her go was never part of the story.”
September 25, 2025
Lea Rose has absolutely outdone herself with Velvet Thorns. If you're looking for a story that will grip you from the very first page and refuse to let go until you're left breathless, then look no further. This book is a perfectly crafted tale of revenge, simmering desire, and the enduring power of a past that refuses to stay buried.
The premise alone is enough to send shivers down your spine, ten years after being utterly broken and humiliated by Phoenix Cassidy, our protagonist is back, not seeking solace, but orchestrating a meticulously planned revenge. The setting a Halloween night and a school reunion adds an extra layer of delicious tension. It’s a single night, a singular opportunity, and our heroine has spent a decade preparing for this very moment.
Lea Rose masterfully builds the suspense from the outset. The opening lines immediately pull you into the protagonist's mindset, showcasing her determination and the burning embers of pain and anger that have fueled her for so long. The choice to disguise herself and adopt a new identity speaks volumes about the depth of her trauma and her unwavering resolve to reclaim her narrative, even if it's just for one night.
The reunion setting is a stroke of genius. It’s a powder keg of unresolved history and a playground for our protagonist’s carefully laid trap. The slow burn of recognition, or rather, the lack thereof, as Phoenix Cassidy encounters the woman he once wronged is agonizingly delicious. The internal monologue of our heroine as she navigates this reunion, reliving the ache, the betrayal, and the undeniable fire that still exists between them, is incredibly compelling. You feel every suppressed emotion, every calculated move, and every surge of adrenaline.
What truly elevates Velvet Thorns is the palpable chemistry between the main characters, even amidst the backdrop of revenge. The "fire" that our protagonist mentions isn't just anger; it's also the undeniable spark of attraction that time and distance haven't managed to extinguish. Lea Rose expertly weaves in the romantic tension, making it clear that this revenge is as much about reclaiming power as it is about confronting a past love that left an indelible mark.
The way the story unfolds is a testament to Lea Rose's skill as a storyteller. The pacing is perfect, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the intricate plan unfolds. You’ll find yourself rooting for our heroine, wanting her to succeed, and simultaneously holding your breath, wondering how Phoenix will react when the mask finally comes off. The payoff is, without a doubt, incredibly satisfying. By the end of the night, he won't just remember everything; he'll be consumed by it.
Velvet Thorns is more than just a revenge story; it's a powerful exploration of healing, resilience, and the complex emotions that arise when confronting past traumas. It's a story that reminds us that sometimes, the most beautiful things can grow from the sharpest pain.
If you're a fan of steamy romance, intricate plots, and characters who are as flawed as they are fierce, do yourself a favor and pick up Velvet Thorns. It's a five-star read that will leave you wanting more from Lea Rose! I'm already eagerly anticipating what she'll write next.
The premise alone is enough to send shivers down your spine, ten years after being utterly broken and humiliated by Phoenix Cassidy, our protagonist is back, not seeking solace, but orchestrating a meticulously planned revenge. The setting a Halloween night and a school reunion adds an extra layer of delicious tension. It’s a single night, a singular opportunity, and our heroine has spent a decade preparing for this very moment.
Lea Rose masterfully builds the suspense from the outset. The opening lines immediately pull you into the protagonist's mindset, showcasing her determination and the burning embers of pain and anger that have fueled her for so long. The choice to disguise herself and adopt a new identity speaks volumes about the depth of her trauma and her unwavering resolve to reclaim her narrative, even if it's just for one night.
The reunion setting is a stroke of genius. It’s a powder keg of unresolved history and a playground for our protagonist’s carefully laid trap. The slow burn of recognition, or rather, the lack thereof, as Phoenix Cassidy encounters the woman he once wronged is agonizingly delicious. The internal monologue of our heroine as she navigates this reunion, reliving the ache, the betrayal, and the undeniable fire that still exists between them, is incredibly compelling. You feel every suppressed emotion, every calculated move, and every surge of adrenaline.
What truly elevates Velvet Thorns is the palpable chemistry between the main characters, even amidst the backdrop of revenge. The "fire" that our protagonist mentions isn't just anger; it's also the undeniable spark of attraction that time and distance haven't managed to extinguish. Lea Rose expertly weaves in the romantic tension, making it clear that this revenge is as much about reclaiming power as it is about confronting a past love that left an indelible mark.
The way the story unfolds is a testament to Lea Rose's skill as a storyteller. The pacing is perfect, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the intricate plan unfolds. You’ll find yourself rooting for our heroine, wanting her to succeed, and simultaneously holding your breath, wondering how Phoenix will react when the mask finally comes off. The payoff is, without a doubt, incredibly satisfying. By the end of the night, he won't just remember everything; he'll be consumed by it.
Velvet Thorns is more than just a revenge story; it's a powerful exploration of healing, resilience, and the complex emotions that arise when confronting past traumas. It's a story that reminds us that sometimes, the most beautiful things can grow from the sharpest pain.
If you're a fan of steamy romance, intricate plots, and characters who are as flawed as they are fierce, do yourself a favor and pick up Velvet Thorns. It's a five-star read that will leave you wanting more from Lea Rose! I'm already eagerly anticipating what she'll write next.
September 29, 2025
⭐️Arc Review ⭐️
Velvet Thorns by @authorlearose
Book 1 in Broken Devotion Duet
Available 10.01
4/5⭐️
Cliffhanger alert! Just when things get really unhinged, it ends-and I need book 2 yesterday! 😭
Shannen and Phoenix were best friends in high school... until he made the football team and dropped her faster than you can say “Halloween.” What followed? Pure torment. Bullies, fire (literally - her hair caught on fire), and one final betrayal by Phoenix that pushed her to leave town and cut everyone off. ( more power to her! 👊🏼) Now, ten years later, an invite to the high school reunion arrives and Shannen sees the perfect chance for a little sweet, sexy revenge. She’s successful, powerful, and not here to play nice... unless it’s part of the plan.
Phoenix? Completely obsessed. Dangerously deranged. And honestly? I’m so in love with him I can’t even form proper sentences. He is the definition of deliciously unhinged and all his red flags are just screaming at me but they are ignored. Shannen is strong, and laser focused on revenge, even as her feelings start to creep in.
This spicy Halloween novella has it all: High tension, Delicious revenge, An obsessed, morally grey MMC , A badass heroine with a killer plan, honestly what more could a bookworm ask for?
The writing? So fun. The story? Addictive. Phoenix is unhinged in the best way, and Shannen is that girl. I am so ready for book 2!
I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Lea Rose on allowing me the pleasure to read Velvet Thorns as an ARC in exchange of my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Velvet Thorns by @authorlearose
Book 1 in Broken Devotion Duet
Available 10.01
4/5⭐️
Cliffhanger alert! Just when things get really unhinged, it ends-and I need book 2 yesterday! 😭
Shannen and Phoenix were best friends in high school... until he made the football team and dropped her faster than you can say “Halloween.” What followed? Pure torment. Bullies, fire (literally - her hair caught on fire), and one final betrayal by Phoenix that pushed her to leave town and cut everyone off. ( more power to her! 👊🏼) Now, ten years later, an invite to the high school reunion arrives and Shannen sees the perfect chance for a little sweet, sexy revenge. She’s successful, powerful, and not here to play nice... unless it’s part of the plan.
Phoenix? Completely obsessed. Dangerously deranged. And honestly? I’m so in love with him I can’t even form proper sentences. He is the definition of deliciously unhinged and all his red flags are just screaming at me but they are ignored. Shannen is strong, and laser focused on revenge, even as her feelings start to creep in.
This spicy Halloween novella has it all: High tension, Delicious revenge, An obsessed, morally grey MMC , A badass heroine with a killer plan, honestly what more could a bookworm ask for?
The writing? So fun. The story? Addictive. Phoenix is unhinged in the best way, and Shannen is that girl. I am so ready for book 2!
I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Lea Rose on allowing me the pleasure to read Velvet Thorns as an ARC in exchange of my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
September 15, 2025
Why did I want to cry like barely a few pages in?!
Lea always has a way of hitting home with the way life comes at us from all angles. This time - pure heartbreak with a first love, school bullies and a difficult childhood. Oh Shannen 😩
On a very serious note … HOW THE HELL AM I MEANT TO WAIT FOR BOOK 2??!! This is pure torture in itself and once again … Lea has us edged so badly that a small gust of wind will have us tipping over the edge 🫦
Phoenix baby, I need more of you 😍
Another 5* read from Lea, and another book boyfriend you know you can’t live without. Will Phoenix finally knock Tobias from the #1 spot in Lea’s fictional man offerings for me?! 🤭🤣
Lea always has a way of hitting home with the way life comes at us from all angles. This time - pure heartbreak with a first love, school bullies and a difficult childhood. Oh Shannen 😩
On a very serious note … HOW THE HELL AM I MEANT TO WAIT FOR BOOK 2??!! This is pure torture in itself and once again … Lea has us edged so badly that a small gust of wind will have us tipping over the edge 🫦
Phoenix baby, I need more of you 😍
Another 5* read from Lea, and another book boyfriend you know you can’t live without. Will Phoenix finally knock Tobias from the #1 spot in Lea’s fictional man offerings for me?! 🤭🤣
September 20, 2025
I inhaled this in one sitting and I’m absolutely OBSESSED!!!
The tension and angst between Pheonix & Shannen was THICKKKKK, my godddddd.
After ten years apart, Shannon is back with vengeance on making the man who shattered her heart pay. But when her plan has a sudden turn of events, everything unravels unexpectedly for her and I ate 👏🏻 it👏🏻 up 👏🏻
I am completely and unapologetically obsessed with Pheonix He is unhinged in all the best morally grey ways. Hes possessive, obsessive, and lives up to the “touch her & die” vibes.
That cliffhanger has me feral for more of their story to see how it all plays out. I need it like I need air.
Thank you so much, Lea Rose for this ARC🤍
The tension and angst between Pheonix & Shannen was THICKKKKK, my godddddd.
After ten years apart, Shannon is back with vengeance on making the man who shattered her heart pay. But when her plan has a sudden turn of events, everything unravels unexpectedly for her and I ate 👏🏻 it👏🏻 up 👏🏻
I am completely and unapologetically obsessed with Pheonix He is unhinged in all the best morally grey ways. Hes possessive, obsessive, and lives up to the “touch her & die” vibes.
That cliffhanger has me feral for more of their story to see how it all plays out. I need it like I need air.
Thank you so much, Lea Rose for this ARC🤍
September 21, 2025
First off, how am I meant to wait for book 2?! I need more of Phoenix and Shannen asap. I couldn't put this one down, sorry fam 🫣
This little novella packed a punch. Full of so much heartache and emotion. Lea really knows how to hook you right in with her stories. Then she went ahead and edged us so badly that I'm not sure what to do with myself now 😏
I'm as obsessed with Phoenix as he is with Shannen 🤭 he's morally grey with a side of stalking. Shannen had a crappy home life and high school wasn't kind to her. 10 years later, she's rocking up to her school reunion to show her bullies that they didn't keep her down. She's badass and I love her.
Looking forward to seeing how their story unfolds in book 2. Hoping I don't have to wait too long 🤞🏼
This little novella packed a punch. Full of so much heartache and emotion. Lea really knows how to hook you right in with her stories. Then she went ahead and edged us so badly that I'm not sure what to do with myself now 😏
I'm as obsessed with Phoenix as he is with Shannen 🤭 he's morally grey with a side of stalking. Shannen had a crappy home life and high school wasn't kind to her. 10 years later, she's rocking up to her school reunion to show her bullies that they didn't keep her down. She's badass and I love her.
Looking forward to seeing how their story unfolds in book 2. Hoping I don't have to wait too long 🤞🏼
October 5, 2025
ARC review:
This was not at all what i expected for a novella and it was great! There’s definitely some darker themes so check the TWs. I already love the dynamic between Phoenix and Shannen. Obsessed stalker romance?? Say less. Really looking forward to seeing how Phoenix and Shannen’s story shakes out in book 2. Excited to read more from Lea Rose!
This was not at all what i expected for a novella and it was great! There’s definitely some darker themes so check the TWs. I already love the dynamic between Phoenix and Shannen. Obsessed stalker romance?? Say less. Really looking forward to seeing how Phoenix and Shannen’s story shakes out in book 2. Excited to read more from Lea Rose!
October 6, 2025
I would like to start out by saying a huge thank you to Lea Rose for having me be apart of her ARC team again! This was another wonderful expierence!
I. AM. FERAL. Just know that in the meantime, I am clawing at the bars of my enclosure while foaming at the mouth until Lea announces the second book. This fckd me up on a spiritual level.
5 freaking unhinged stars baby! I ain’t got a single complaint! This was just a wickedly twisted good time. I was hooked from the first page. I don’t know what to say besides like Lea just knows how to rope me in immediately… like she sets the damn tone and keeps it 👏🏼. Lea wrote a quick but engaging plot.
This followed Pheonix and Shannen who started out as best friends in high school… but that friendship soured and Shannen set out for revenge at their 10 year high school reunion. If you know me, you know I love feminine rage… I fully support it actually in books and in real life so you know Maria was sat from page one all like 😇🍿. But oh the turn tables of this book! Like buckle tf up baby!!
Lea wrote really complex and unique characters. Although the book was not long, I really felt like I got to understand both characters (Shannen more so… and I hate to admit how much I literally relate to her). Regardless, I genuinely loved being inside both character’s heads 😈.
Now let’s talk about that freaking ending.. if you read this already, are you okay? Because I AM NOT. I need part two more than I need my next breath. Like I’m sorry but I am over here a gosh dang puddle on the ground for Pheonix and we end like that? I am over here swooning and then it just ends? AND LIKE THAT? Lea, let me know when the ARC sign ups go up for book two because I’m going to be just waiting like 🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️
Would I suggest this to a friend? Oh hell yeah. Will I do a reread before the second book gets released? CERTAINLY. Do I need a trophy? 109%, thank you.
⚠️ WARNING PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION!! Here are my unhinged reading notes! Please proceed with caution as there may be minor spoilers! ⚠️
I love feminine rage. And I support it.
@ 52% and I just realized it is 52% and I only took a single note. With that being said, oh the turn tables and I. Am. Here. For. It.
You know I love feminine rage.. but do you know what I really love? A man obsessed.
I shouldn’t swoon over this… but like I’m down bad.
@ 63% Shannen, just give it up. He seems like a good guy. This is not fck boy material.
@ 65% I’m swooning.
“I should be running, calling the police, or screaming for a restraining order.” And I love this for us. Don’t call the cops.
@ 66% I don’t think that this is supposed to be a dark rom com but I’m giggling.
This guy is down BAD and I’m kicking my feet because I might be down WORSE.
I mean, the guy has charm ✨
@ 76% but daddy I love him. IYKYK.
@ 80% listen Shannen is mad.. but me? I’m not mad. I’m just a hopeless romantic.
I am sorry but we’re just going to end like this?? Where I am literally FERAL FOR PHEONIX??? When does the second come out??? I’m not well. Check on me when book two gets announced. K bye.
I. AM. FERAL. Just know that in the meantime, I am clawing at the bars of my enclosure while foaming at the mouth until Lea announces the second book. This fckd me up on a spiritual level.
5 freaking unhinged stars baby! I ain’t got a single complaint! This was just a wickedly twisted good time. I was hooked from the first page. I don’t know what to say besides like Lea just knows how to rope me in immediately… like she sets the damn tone and keeps it 👏🏼. Lea wrote a quick but engaging plot.
This followed Pheonix and Shannen who started out as best friends in high school… but that friendship soured and Shannen set out for revenge at their 10 year high school reunion. If you know me, you know I love feminine rage… I fully support it actually in books and in real life so you know Maria was sat from page one all like 😇🍿. But oh the turn tables of this book! Like buckle tf up baby!!
Lea wrote really complex and unique characters. Although the book was not long, I really felt like I got to understand both characters (Shannen more so… and I hate to admit how much I literally relate to her). Regardless, I genuinely loved being inside both character’s heads 😈.
Now let’s talk about that freaking ending.. if you read this already, are you okay? Because I AM NOT. I need part two more than I need my next breath. Like I’m sorry but I am over here a gosh dang puddle on the ground for Pheonix and we end like that? I am over here swooning and then it just ends? AND LIKE THAT? Lea, let me know when the ARC sign ups go up for book two because I’m going to be just waiting like 🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️
Would I suggest this to a friend? Oh hell yeah. Will I do a reread before the second book gets released? CERTAINLY. Do I need a trophy? 109%, thank you.
⚠️ WARNING PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION!! Here are my unhinged reading notes! Please proceed with caution as there may be minor spoilers! ⚠️
I love feminine rage. And I support it.
@ 52% and I just realized it is 52% and I only took a single note. With that being said, oh the turn tables and I. Am. Here. For. It.
You know I love feminine rage.. but do you know what I really love? A man obsessed.
I shouldn’t swoon over this… but like I’m down bad.
@ 63% Shannen, just give it up. He seems like a good guy. This is not fck boy material.
@ 65% I’m swooning.
“I should be running, calling the police, or screaming for a restraining order.” And I love this for us. Don’t call the cops.
@ 66% I don’t think that this is supposed to be a dark rom com but I’m giggling.
This guy is down BAD and I’m kicking my feet because I might be down WORSE.
I mean, the guy has charm ✨
@ 76% but daddy I love him. IYKYK.
@ 80% listen Shannen is mad.. but me? I’m not mad. I’m just a hopeless romantic.
I am sorry but we’re just going to end like this?? Where I am literally FERAL FOR PHEONIX??? When does the second come out??? I’m not well. Check on me when book two gets announced. K bye.
September 21, 2025
Oh my god y’all, this was so good!! I’m literally as obsessed with this duet as Phoenix is with Shannen!!
First of all, Lea Rose writes vibes and emotions so well! Despite this being a novella, I was gripped with emotions from the very first to the very last page. I found myself having to actively remember to breathe while reading because my body was so tense diving into all the feelings of this story in the most delicious ways. From the revenge and wrath that simmered within Shannen to the grief, remorse, and obsession that flowed through Phoenix’s blood, there was no shortage of passion in our characters. Their connection both as high schoolers and then again as adults 10 years later, was so gosh darn palpable that I was kicking my feet in anticipation of the f*ck it moment the whole book!!
Speaking of Shannen, I absolutely loved what a badass she was. She grew up in a very terrible situation, was bullied through high school, even by who she thought was her best friend, and she rose above it all to become a powerhouse who owns “one of the most successful graphic and web design companies in the country”. She is the epitome of an underdog who grew up to win the day, in Louboutins no less.
And Phoenix! OMFG do I love an obsessed MMC. From a lost boy who tossed aside his best friend to take the popular route to the very assured man who has stalked her for the last 10 years (while not touching anyone else mind you!), he is the men we love in books but would absolutely run from in real life…which basically means he’s a perfect book boyfriend 😊 While telling her everything heinous he had done, he KNEW it was overwhelming (actually unaliving people for her!), but he was so patient with her. How sure he is in their happy ending makes me confident in it as well, despite the cliffhanger ending!
I can’t wait until Lea blesses us with the next book in this duet!!
Thank you to Lea Rose for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
First of all, Lea Rose writes vibes and emotions so well! Despite this being a novella, I was gripped with emotions from the very first to the very last page. I found myself having to actively remember to breathe while reading because my body was so tense diving into all the feelings of this story in the most delicious ways. From the revenge and wrath that simmered within Shannen to the grief, remorse, and obsession that flowed through Phoenix’s blood, there was no shortage of passion in our characters. Their connection both as high schoolers and then again as adults 10 years later, was so gosh darn palpable that I was kicking my feet in anticipation of the f*ck it moment the whole book!!
Speaking of Shannen, I absolutely loved what a badass she was. She grew up in a very terrible situation, was bullied through high school, even by who she thought was her best friend, and she rose above it all to become a powerhouse who owns “one of the most successful graphic and web design companies in the country”. She is the epitome of an underdog who grew up to win the day, in Louboutins no less.
And Phoenix! OMFG do I love an obsessed MMC. From a lost boy who tossed aside his best friend to take the popular route to the very assured man who has stalked her for the last 10 years (while not touching anyone else mind you!), he is the men we love in books but would absolutely run from in real life…which basically means he’s a perfect book boyfriend 😊 While telling her everything heinous he had done, he KNEW it was overwhelming (actually unaliving people for her!), but he was so patient with her. How sure he is in their happy ending makes me confident in it as well, despite the cliffhanger ending!
I can’t wait until Lea blesses us with the next book in this duet!!
Thank you to Lea Rose for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
September 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶
"We’re bound by something darker than love, something stronger than death, and if the world ends tomorrow, I’ll die with her name on my lips. And whatever comes after, whether it’s fire or oblivion or whatever version of the afterlife I’ve got to look forward to, I’ll still be looking for her because letting her go was never part of the story."
Lea Rose what have you done to me AGAIN? This amazing woman never ceases to amaze me. And I honestly think she adds crack to her books, because i get addicted more and more everytime i read any of her books. Call me Phoenix 2.0 because I am obsessed.
I ate this up. Like plate was cleared up, nothing left. I loved everything about this. I'm convinced I also highlighted every single thing just because this book kind of ruined me. And that brutal cliffhanger, what are you doing to me woman? How am i supposed to wait? It's genuinely pure torture having to wait till 2026. And you know what's crazy, i'll probably finish it in one night when book 2 is up, knowing full well, i might end up in another slump after I finish it. I hope that was clear enough without me mentioning that, this book did in fact put me in a slump because of how short, sweet, captivating (and agonising with that ending) it was.
Let's talk plots, I'm gonna be honest and say i was blindsided. The revenge plot was done amazingly and the plot twist, believe me when I say I was left staring at my blank wall for 10 minutes before I went to reread again because I couldn't believe my eyes. I thought they deceived me until I read it again and found out that it was indeed the truth.
Best believe I was crying for Shannen in the prologue. They literally put her through hell, and she had no one at her side.
But as Lianna said she grew up and glowed up, and made them realise that "karma's not a bitch, she's a bombshell". She became a better and successful version of herself.
And her version of revenge, what a baddie!
Plus what made me respect her even more, was that ending when she chose herself. Because if i was in that position, trust me I would cave and go back. So for her to do that, we gotta give her the massive bouquet she deserves.
I can explain. I promise I can. Because I'm in love with Phoenix Cassidy. Like the more I read about his deep obsession, the more I got high off him. Like he literally has me on a freaking chokehold. I know he does questionable stuff, but look at the brighter side, he did it for her and to keep her safe. Sooooo, no Phoenix slander accepted here. Because I'm his number one defender forever.
But I still don't support how much of an asshole he was to Shannen in high school. He still needs to grovel.
Also, I'm here hoping we get a Lianna book. Because she got to my head with the few chapters she was in. I need her to crack me up. Plus the things she says, I fully back her up, mostly the twin brother thing😉.
I'm desperate for book two, it's not even a joke at this point. I need Shannen and Phoenix to ruin me even more.
Thank you so much to Lea for gracing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
🌶
"We’re bound by something darker than love, something stronger than death, and if the world ends tomorrow, I’ll die with her name on my lips. And whatever comes after, whether it’s fire or oblivion or whatever version of the afterlife I’ve got to look forward to, I’ll still be looking for her because letting her go was never part of the story."
Lea Rose what have you done to me AGAIN? This amazing woman never ceases to amaze me. And I honestly think she adds crack to her books, because i get addicted more and more everytime i read any of her books. Call me Phoenix 2.0 because I am obsessed.
I ate this up. Like plate was cleared up, nothing left. I loved everything about this. I'm convinced I also highlighted every single thing just because this book kind of ruined me. And that brutal cliffhanger, what are you doing to me woman? How am i supposed to wait? It's genuinely pure torture having to wait till 2026. And you know what's crazy, i'll probably finish it in one night when book 2 is up, knowing full well, i might end up in another slump after I finish it. I hope that was clear enough without me mentioning that, this book did in fact put me in a slump because of how short, sweet, captivating (and agonising with that ending) it was.
Let's talk plots, I'm gonna be honest and say i was blindsided. The revenge plot was done amazingly and the plot twist, believe me when I say I was left staring at my blank wall for 10 minutes before I went to reread again because I couldn't believe my eyes. I thought they deceived me until I read it again and found out that it was indeed the truth.
Best believe I was crying for Shannen in the prologue. They literally put her through hell, and she had no one at her side.
But as Lianna said she grew up and glowed up, and made them realise that "karma's not a bitch, she's a bombshell". She became a better and successful version of herself.
And her version of revenge, what a baddie!
Plus what made me respect her even more, was that ending when she chose herself. Because if i was in that position, trust me I would cave and go back. So for her to do that, we gotta give her the massive bouquet she deserves.
I can explain. I promise I can. Because I'm in love with Phoenix Cassidy. Like the more I read about his deep obsession, the more I got high off him. Like he literally has me on a freaking chokehold. I know he does questionable stuff, but look at the brighter side, he did it for her and to keep her safe. Sooooo, no Phoenix slander accepted here. Because I'm his number one defender forever.
But I still don't support how much of an asshole he was to Shannen in high school. He still needs to grovel.
Also, I'm here hoping we get a Lianna book. Because she got to my head with the few chapters she was in. I need her to crack me up. Plus the things she says, I fully back her up, mostly the twin brother thing😉.
I'm desperate for book two, it's not even a joke at this point. I need Shannen and Phoenix to ruin me even more.
Thank you so much to Lea for gracing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 7, 2025
Lea has literally thrown me straight into the complex relationship of Phoenix and Shannen ..Both shared similar pain and trauma of the past but instead of being closer they were further apart than ever . Shannen had the worst time at school , her safe space , by the hands of popular kids and Phoenix (since becoming quarterback)
10 years late she received an invitation for a reunion , that was the perfect opportunity to have her revenge , payback for her suffering .she hatched an unhinged plan with her best friend to seek closure she was desperate for . An opportunity to heal from the pain of her past. Her fire and sass was something I liked about her !
There’s a fine line between love & hate and this book gives you that beautiful push and pull . Boundaries are pushed as truths and pent up emotions came to the surface .. Torn in an emotional battle of the wanting and needing to rejection and fear . Loss of control has never felt so dangerous ! Some say Phoenix might be obsessive but I’d say he was romantic
This cover screams secrets , dark desires & promises and that’s exactly what you get in this novella . First part of the duet and I am now needing part 2 like right about now !! An unhinged romance of two damaged people - that definitely fed my soul !!
✨Thank you Lea for an early access arc , you know how impatient we are about waiting for your book releases so the chance to read early was perfect !! ✨
10 years late she received an invitation for a reunion , that was the perfect opportunity to have her revenge , payback for her suffering .she hatched an unhinged plan with her best friend to seek closure she was desperate for . An opportunity to heal from the pain of her past. Her fire and sass was something I liked about her !
There’s a fine line between love & hate and this book gives you that beautiful push and pull . Boundaries are pushed as truths and pent up emotions came to the surface .. Torn in an emotional battle of the wanting and needing to rejection and fear . Loss of control has never felt so dangerous ! Some say Phoenix might be obsessive but I’d say he was romantic
This cover screams secrets , dark desires & promises and that’s exactly what you get in this novella . First part of the duet and I am now needing part 2 like right about now !! An unhinged romance of two damaged people - that definitely fed my soul !!
✨Thank you Lea for an early access arc , you know how impatient we are about waiting for your book releases so the chance to read early was perfect !! ✨
September 22, 2025
I will start this review by saying that Lea is brilliant. Her writing is magical. If you know me, you know I don't read books with cliffhangers, but I am so glad I made an exception for this one!
It blew my mind, and the twists and turns left me gasping for air.
Phoenix is deranged, there is no limit to his obsession! He is the most delicious unhinged character I've ever read.
I am so in love with him that I can not even find words to express it.
Shannen is a bada$$ FMC! She is strong and thirsty for revenge! The way she fights her feelings, shoving them aside to make sure her revenge goes perfectly is genius.
This book is just a small taste of what is coming next and let me tell you, I can not wait! These two are explosive, the banter is unmatched, and the tension is steaming!
Lea can write my obituary and I will come back just to rate it 5 stars! Sorry, not sorry! 🤣
It blew my mind, and the twists and turns left me gasping for air.
Phoenix is deranged, there is no limit to his obsession! He is the most delicious unhinged character I've ever read.
I am so in love with him that I can not even find words to express it.
Shannen is a bada$$ FMC! She is strong and thirsty for revenge! The way she fights her feelings, shoving them aside to make sure her revenge goes perfectly is genius.
This book is just a small taste of what is coming next and let me tell you, I can not wait! These two are explosive, the banter is unmatched, and the tension is steaming!
Lea can write my obituary and I will come back just to rate it 5 stars! Sorry, not sorry! 🤣
October 1, 2025
Wow, what a wild ride this book was. For a Novella this one was PACKED with emotions and secrets.
Phoenix and Shannen were best friends back in high school. It was them against the world until Phoenix betrayed her in a horrible way and my heart was hurting so much with what Shannen had to go through. When she gets invited to the Halloween themed high school reunion party, she comes up with a devilish plan for revenge.
I knew Phoenix was going to be UNHINGED, but we’ll have to come up with a new word just for him, because this man is unhinged multiplied with 100. He’s determined to right his wrongs and earn his redemption, and there’s literally NOTHING he wouldn’t do to get Shannen back. There is not much in books that can take me by surprise anymore, but Lea really got me good with this one, so I don’t want to reveal too much here.
Don’t be fooled by the lower spice rating! The first part of this duet novella is for big emotions and unhinged revelations, and Lea promised allll the spice for the second part of the duet. I already know it’s going to be explosive and FILTHY!
Phoenix and Shannen were best friends back in high school. It was them against the world until Phoenix betrayed her in a horrible way and my heart was hurting so much with what Shannen had to go through. When she gets invited to the Halloween themed high school reunion party, she comes up with a devilish plan for revenge.
I knew Phoenix was going to be UNHINGED, but we’ll have to come up with a new word just for him, because this man is unhinged multiplied with 100. He’s determined to right his wrongs and earn his redemption, and there’s literally NOTHING he wouldn’t do to get Shannen back. There is not much in books that can take me by surprise anymore, but Lea really got me good with this one, so I don’t want to reveal too much here.
Don’t be fooled by the lower spice rating! The first part of this duet novella is for big emotions and unhinged revelations, and Lea promised allll the spice for the second part of the duet. I already know it’s going to be explosive and FILTHY!
September 20, 2025
Lea has done it again—I was absolutely consumed by this book! From the first page, the darkness pulled me in, and the simmering tension—both mental and sexual—was explosive. Phoenix, our perfect dark prince, shattered me with his pain, his love, and those soul-gripping confessions.
The twists? I wasn’t ready. I couldn’t stop reading if I tried. I live for stories about broken characters carrying irreparable trauma, and Lea gave us exactly that—with an obsessive, all-consuming MMC who will go to any length for the woman he loves.
And now… how am I supposed to survive waiting for book two? The ending left me completely wrecked and desperate for more. Lea has us so edged that the smallest push will send us spiraling. Phoenix, baby—I need more of you.
The twists? I wasn’t ready. I couldn’t stop reading if I tried. I live for stories about broken characters carrying irreparable trauma, and Lea gave us exactly that—with an obsessive, all-consuming MMC who will go to any length for the woman he loves.
And now… how am I supposed to survive waiting for book two? The ending left me completely wrecked and desperate for more. Lea has us so edged that the smallest push will send us spiraling. Phoenix, baby—I need more of you.
February 11, 2026
Lea!!!!!! HELLO??? You cannot just drop a cliffhanger like that and stroll away like you didn’t just commit a felony against my nervous system. Straight to jail for you. No trial….your only get out of jail free card is handing me over Poison Petals to read right now because I NEED!!!
And don’t get me started over Shannen. You expect me to believe she’s icing out this sexy, unhinged, walking red flag but extremely hot man over a TEENAGE MISUNDERSTANDING??? I mean sure…he didn’t defend her at one point…ages ago…in another lifetime…. and sure he’s invaded her privacy ever since then without her knowing….small minor details….but he’s rewritten his entire DNA into “touch her and I’ll burn the world” and she’s still hesitating??? GET. ON. YOUR. KNEES… or move out of the way because I am feral for Phoenix Cassidy. 🥵
Counting down the days until I get to devour him again 🙌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And don’t get me started over Shannen. You expect me to believe she’s icing out this sexy, unhinged, walking red flag but extremely hot man over a TEENAGE MISUNDERSTANDING??? I mean sure…he didn’t defend her at one point…ages ago…in another lifetime…. and sure he’s invaded her privacy ever since then without her knowing….small minor details….but he’s rewritten his entire DNA into “touch her and I’ll burn the world” and she’s still hesitating??? GET. ON. YOUR. KNEES… or move out of the way because I am feral for Phoenix Cassidy. 🥵
Counting down the days until I get to devour him again 🙌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 13, 2025
Some things echo across continents and years. Some connections burn so deep they leave permanent scars on your soul.
This was a really quick read. But there is definitely a big punch to it.
When it comes to crazy, Shannen Clarke and Phoenix Cassidy are the definition of the word. However, something was missing. Something in all their insanity was missing.
On the lookout for book two...
“You call it insanity. I call it devotion.”
This was a really quick read. But there is definitely a big punch to it.
When it comes to crazy, Shannen Clarke and Phoenix Cassidy are the definition of the word. However, something was missing. Something in all their insanity was missing.
On the lookout for book two...
“You call it insanity. I call it devotion.”
October 2, 2025
Omg this duet was absolutely phenomenal. Pheonix pheonix phoenix what can I say, but hot damn. I couldn’t even put this book down, I devoured it in a day. I so can’t wait to see where the ever amazing Lea Rose takes us next with this series. A++++++++++ read
October 19, 2025
This was packed with everything I crave in a dark romance. Twisted tension, delicious spice, and a morally grey MMC who checks every box—broody, dangerous, and completely addictive. I devoured this in one sitting and now I’m feral for the next book. Bring on more chaos, please!
September 19, 2025
ARC REVIEW
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️
Lea Rose Just Entered Dark Romance, and Absolutely Crushed It
Lea Rose takes her first step into the dark romance world, and honestly? She nailed it. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but wow, I was completely hooked from page one. The story is intense, addictive, and packed with all the twists and tension you’d want in a dark romance.
And that plot twist? Mind. Blown. Just when I thought I had it figured out, Lea flipped everything upside down ,in the best way. What’s even better is that the twist doesn’t ruin the ending at all. If anything, it makes you crave the next book even more. Oh, and yes… There's a cliffhanger. A delicious, frustrating, perfectly executed cliffhanger that left me wide-eyed and screaming internally.
This book is everything I didn’t know I needed. If this is Lea Rose's debut in dark romance, then buckle up—because she’s about to take over the genre.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️
Lea Rose Just Entered Dark Romance, and Absolutely Crushed It
Lea Rose takes her first step into the dark romance world, and honestly? She nailed it. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but wow, I was completely hooked from page one. The story is intense, addictive, and packed with all the twists and tension you’d want in a dark romance.
And that plot twist? Mind. Blown. Just when I thought I had it figured out, Lea flipped everything upside down ,in the best way. What’s even better is that the twist doesn’t ruin the ending at all. If anything, it makes you crave the next book even more. Oh, and yes… There's a cliffhanger. A delicious, frustrating, perfectly executed cliffhanger that left me wide-eyed and screaming internally.
This book is everything I didn’t know I needed. If this is Lea Rose's debut in dark romance, then buckle up—because she’s about to take over the genre.
October 1, 2025
I devoured this in one sitting. Gobbled it up like a little gremlin.
Lea, you've done it again. Dishing out different genres like your handing out sweets.
The story between Phoenix and Shannen is full of depth and heartbreak. There's an undercurrent that sizzles all the way through keeping you on your toes and letting you know it isn't done yet.
It's angsty, obsessive, full of tension and pain. It's so worth it.
I'm part of the rare minority that loves a cliffhanger and will be eagerly waiting on the edge of my seat for book 2 to drop in March.
I'm privileged to have gotten this as an early copy, if you want in the ARC form is still live. If not, there isn't long to wait 😍
Lea, you've done it again. Dishing out different genres like your handing out sweets.
The story between Phoenix and Shannen is full of depth and heartbreak. There's an undercurrent that sizzles all the way through keeping you on your toes and letting you know it isn't done yet.
It's angsty, obsessive, full of tension and pain. It's so worth it.
I'm part of the rare minority that loves a cliffhanger and will be eagerly waiting on the edge of my seat for book 2 to drop in March.
I'm privileged to have gotten this as an early copy, if you want in the ARC form is still live. If not, there isn't long to wait 😍
February 14, 2026
Lea is in her dark romance era and I am here for it!
check your TWs and dive into this stalker dark romance. Everything starts so well, Shannon is the sweet girl born the wrong side of the tracks and she befriends Phoenix. They become each others support and best friends through their childhood, until Phoenix gets in with the wrong crowd,
cue horrible bullying that happens to Shannon (not directly from phoenix) it gets so bad that she leaves.
Fast forward years later and Shannen is a successful boss ass bitch! That girl succeeded though her high school still haunts her with Phoenix still taking up most of her thoughts.
when she finds out there’s a high school reunion happenin, she takes this as an opportunity for revenge. However when she comes face to face with her past specifically Phoenix she soon finds out things aren’t what they seem and Phoenix is harbouring a secret obsession - her.
the ending of this has me begging for more - Lea I’ve got to know what happens next 🙏🙏🙏🙏
check your TWs and dive into this stalker dark romance. Everything starts so well, Shannon is the sweet girl born the wrong side of the tracks and she befriends Phoenix. They become each others support and best friends through their childhood, until Phoenix gets in with the wrong crowd,
cue horrible bullying that happens to Shannon (not directly from phoenix) it gets so bad that she leaves.
Fast forward years later and Shannen is a successful boss ass bitch! That girl succeeded though her high school still haunts her with Phoenix still taking up most of her thoughts.
when she finds out there’s a high school reunion happenin, she takes this as an opportunity for revenge. However when she comes face to face with her past specifically Phoenix she soon finds out things aren’t what they seem and Phoenix is harbouring a secret obsession - her.
the ending of this has me begging for more - Lea I’ve got to know what happens next 🙏🙏🙏🙏
September 7, 2025
Lea fucking Rose!!!! Her first dip into Dark Romance and she smashed it out of the fucking park!!
I can't even describe how much I loved this new book....I literally read it in one sitting, which is very hard and unlikely for me to do. I was so invested in the story that I couldn't put it down.
Lea always, always, always writes drool worthy MMC and she did not disappoint. Phoenix Cassidy is the perfect definition of your Dark Romance, stalker, book boyfriend.
Shannen Rhodes is the feisty FMC who kicks ass and takes names!! I want to be her friend! She is definitely a strong independent female that everyone wishes to read about.
The ONLY thing I am screaming about is Velvet Thorns leaves you on a cliffhanger, so having to wait until the new year for book 2 is going to be torture!!
I can't even describe how much I loved this new book....I literally read it in one sitting, which is very hard and unlikely for me to do. I was so invested in the story that I couldn't put it down.
Lea always, always, always writes drool worthy MMC and she did not disappoint. Phoenix Cassidy is the perfect definition of your Dark Romance, stalker, book boyfriend.
Shannen Rhodes is the feisty FMC who kicks ass and takes names!! I want to be her friend! She is definitely a strong independent female that everyone wishes to read about.
The ONLY thing I am screaming about is Velvet Thorns leaves you on a cliffhanger, so having to wait until the new year for book 2 is going to be torture!!
October 1, 2025
Lea Rose is fast becoming one of my favorite authors and just gifted me a new book boyfriend In Phoenix Cassidy 🥵🥵
Do I like them a bit unhinged? Apparently. Do I like them obsessed with their girl? Absolutely. Do I LOVE that he’s still a virgin because she’s the only one he wants to touch him? That would be a resounding hell YES. Not gonna lie, that was the icing, the best bit, on the delicious Phoenix cupcake for me.
The story starts ten years prior in high school. Shannen is bullied. Mercilessly by the popular kids. The cheerleaders and football players make her life hell. They make fun of her clothes, where she lives, it’s not her fault her parents are dead beat junkies and she lives in a run down trailer on the wrong side of town.
It also doesn’t help that the boy she was friends with when they started school, both being from broken homes, changed as soon as he got on the football team. It was only ever Shannen and Phoenix, friends who protected each other….then Phoenixes life changed and he became one of the popular crowd….leaving Shannen behind.
But the popular kids teased Shannen constantly and Phoenix? Phoenix stood back and watched. He did nothing to stop it. Until one day, he finds Shannen under the bleachers and tells her he’s sorry….that he never should have left her and, that she was always more than just friendship to him. A kiss is sealed but circumstances follow and Shannen believes Phoenix set her up as some sort of a cruel prank, she runs away….and doesn’t stop for ten years.
Ten years later Shannen is invited to her high school reunion, convinced she won’t go because of how she was treated, she thinks nothing of it….until Phoenix enters her mind. The boy she loved who betrayed her. And suddenly revenge seems like a much better option than staying home.
With a new look and a new outlook, she sets out to bring the boy who broke her, down….but Phoenix isn’t the boy she remembers. Ten years can do a lot to a man. Including make his obsession and wants more irrational….and Phoenix has waited….ten long years and now it’s time to collect on what belongs to him, what ALWAYS belonged to him…..Shannen.
When I say Phoenix is hot, Phoenix has steam rolling off him. He’s perfection wrapped in a handsome face and a solid body with a new, never used sticker attached and honestly? SOLD.
But this does end on a cliffhanger 😭 so we do need to wait till the beginning of next year for the concluding part.
I loved this. Short, spicy (the Spice, SPICE hasn’t kicked off yet) but packed with sexual tension and a FMC who doesn’t just buckle at the first “baby.” Not like me. Because I absolutely would have. Folded like a lawn chair. Immediately.
Ms Rose, keep writing these men, because you write them so well 🖤
Do I like them a bit unhinged? Apparently. Do I like them obsessed with their girl? Absolutely. Do I LOVE that he’s still a virgin because she’s the only one he wants to touch him? That would be a resounding hell YES. Not gonna lie, that was the icing, the best bit, on the delicious Phoenix cupcake for me.
The story starts ten years prior in high school. Shannen is bullied. Mercilessly by the popular kids. The cheerleaders and football players make her life hell. They make fun of her clothes, where she lives, it’s not her fault her parents are dead beat junkies and she lives in a run down trailer on the wrong side of town.
It also doesn’t help that the boy she was friends with when they started school, both being from broken homes, changed as soon as he got on the football team. It was only ever Shannen and Phoenix, friends who protected each other….then Phoenixes life changed and he became one of the popular crowd….leaving Shannen behind.
But the popular kids teased Shannen constantly and Phoenix? Phoenix stood back and watched. He did nothing to stop it. Until one day, he finds Shannen under the bleachers and tells her he’s sorry….that he never should have left her and, that she was always more than just friendship to him. A kiss is sealed but circumstances follow and Shannen believes Phoenix set her up as some sort of a cruel prank, she runs away….and doesn’t stop for ten years.
Ten years later Shannen is invited to her high school reunion, convinced she won’t go because of how she was treated, she thinks nothing of it….until Phoenix enters her mind. The boy she loved who betrayed her. And suddenly revenge seems like a much better option than staying home.
With a new look and a new outlook, she sets out to bring the boy who broke her, down….but Phoenix isn’t the boy she remembers. Ten years can do a lot to a man. Including make his obsession and wants more irrational….and Phoenix has waited….ten long years and now it’s time to collect on what belongs to him, what ALWAYS belonged to him…..Shannen.
When I say Phoenix is hot, Phoenix has steam rolling off him. He’s perfection wrapped in a handsome face and a solid body with a new, never used sticker attached and honestly? SOLD.
But this does end on a cliffhanger 😭 so we do need to wait till the beginning of next year for the concluding part.
I loved this. Short, spicy (the Spice, SPICE hasn’t kicked off yet) but packed with sexual tension and a FMC who doesn’t just buckle at the first “baby.” Not like me. Because I absolutely would have. Folded like a lawn chair. Immediately.
Ms Rose, keep writing these men, because you write them so well 🖤
September 26, 2025
⭐️5 🌶️1 ARC Review “Hate. Fear. Want. Anticipation. Hurt. And buried under every jagged shard of pain is a fucked-up, feral ache that whispers, “You miss him.””- Shannen Mitchell
Well, oh fucking, WELL THEN!! Lea Rose you little genius!! When I first started reading this, loving the femme fatale vibes and all ‘girl gone savage’ I was blown away by Shannen’s strength and resilience. To push herself up from the dirt, to start over again and not just do well for herself, no - she BOSSED IT!! She dug herself out of that dead end and owned herself. And my girl crush just kept getting bigger. And then Phoenix appeared… and blew any feminist ideals out the fucking water!!
Not asking for a friend - where can I get my own Phoenix?? Seriously, dude is OBSESSED. Possessively so. Psychotically so. He’s a walking black flag wrapped up in tattoos and black leather jackets just BEGGING to be owned. He wants domination and to belong to only Shannen in an eternal, life altering way. So much in fact, that he is willing to remove anyone and everyone that so much as sniffs the same air as her.
Their past is so entangled and traumatic - both together and separately in their home lives - and I had so many feelings for each of them. I sympathised, I got angry, I had a few tears for Shannen and Phoenix got me all hot and bothered!
Lea’s writing is so compelling, so infatuating that you just cannot put the book down. She has a way with words that draws you in and hooks you from the first sentence. The way she flips the script here and makes you go from full on girl power bitch to pining for the morally black man with all his murderey ways made me feel like I’m the one with issues 🤣
And all these strong feelings from a little novella of 135 pages?! Honestly, the cliffhanger here left me down on my knees, scrambling for more from Shannen and Phoenix. I cannot wait for the next installment in their love story, to see a grown man wither and beg some more and a strong and fiesty woman make him work for it!
Well, oh fucking, WELL THEN!! Lea Rose you little genius!! When I first started reading this, loving the femme fatale vibes and all ‘girl gone savage’ I was blown away by Shannen’s strength and resilience. To push herself up from the dirt, to start over again and not just do well for herself, no - she BOSSED IT!! She dug herself out of that dead end and owned herself. And my girl crush just kept getting bigger. And then Phoenix appeared… and blew any feminist ideals out the fucking water!!
Not asking for a friend - where can I get my own Phoenix?? Seriously, dude is OBSESSED. Possessively so. Psychotically so. He’s a walking black flag wrapped up in tattoos and black leather jackets just BEGGING to be owned. He wants domination and to belong to only Shannen in an eternal, life altering way. So much in fact, that he is willing to remove anyone and everyone that so much as sniffs the same air as her.
Their past is so entangled and traumatic - both together and separately in their home lives - and I had so many feelings for each of them. I sympathised, I got angry, I had a few tears for Shannen and Phoenix got me all hot and bothered!
Lea’s writing is so compelling, so infatuating that you just cannot put the book down. She has a way with words that draws you in and hooks you from the first sentence. The way she flips the script here and makes you go from full on girl power bitch to pining for the morally black man with all his murderey ways made me feel like I’m the one with issues 🤣
And all these strong feelings from a little novella of 135 pages?! Honestly, the cliffhanger here left me down on my knees, scrambling for more from Shannen and Phoenix. I cannot wait for the next installment in their love story, to see a grown man wither and beg some more and a strong and fiesty woman make him work for it!
October 1, 2025
This novella was everything I wanted from a dark, Halloween read—sharp, savage, and emotionally charged. I devoured it and was left craving MORE.
If there was ever a perfect embodiment of feminine rage, it’s Shannen. She is the beating heart of this story—raw, relentless, and unapologetic. Life dealt her the worst kind of hand growing up, but instead of breaking, she sharpened herself into steel. She’s built a better life on her own terms, and when the invite to her high school reunion shows up, she doesn’t hesitate. She’s not going back to reminisce. She’s going back for revenge. Watching her walk into that room with fire in her veins and a plan in her pocket? Chef’s kiss. Shannen doesn’t just carry anger; she wields it like a weapon.
And then—enter Phoenix Cassidy. Her friend-turned-enemy, the boy who once stood by her side and then turned his back when she needed him most. That betrayal cut deeper than anything else, and you feel every ounce of her fury when their paths cross again.
But here’s the kicker: Phoenix never stopped loving her. For a decade, he’s been haunted, obsessed, and trying in his own twisted way to make up for the moment he failed her. His brand of devotion isn’t clean—stalking, hacking, keeping tabs from the shadows—but it’s all rooted in guilt and this feral need to protect her.
Their shared history is the gasoline that fuels this firestorm of a story. Every heated word between them carries the weight of ten years of pain, longing, and betrayal. They know exactly how to hurt each other, and exactly how to burn together. The chemistry between Shannen and Phoenix? Absolutely scorching. This isn’t a sweet second-chance romance—it’s a dark, rage-filled, obsession-soaked reckoning.
Lea Rose nailed the emotional intensity—rage, heartbreak, revenge, and longing—all wrapped in a darkly delicious package. By the end, I was screaming for more. I need more of Shannen and Phoenix, more closure, more chaos. Please, Lea, don’t leave us hanging.
If you’re into fast-paced, rage-fueled, obsession-drenched romances with a Halloween bite—Velvet Thorns is going to sink its teeth into you.
If there was ever a perfect embodiment of feminine rage, it’s Shannen. She is the beating heart of this story—raw, relentless, and unapologetic. Life dealt her the worst kind of hand growing up, but instead of breaking, she sharpened herself into steel. She’s built a better life on her own terms, and when the invite to her high school reunion shows up, she doesn’t hesitate. She’s not going back to reminisce. She’s going back for revenge. Watching her walk into that room with fire in her veins and a plan in her pocket? Chef’s kiss. Shannen doesn’t just carry anger; she wields it like a weapon.
And then—enter Phoenix Cassidy. Her friend-turned-enemy, the boy who once stood by her side and then turned his back when she needed him most. That betrayal cut deeper than anything else, and you feel every ounce of her fury when their paths cross again.
But here’s the kicker: Phoenix never stopped loving her. For a decade, he’s been haunted, obsessed, and trying in his own twisted way to make up for the moment he failed her. His brand of devotion isn’t clean—stalking, hacking, keeping tabs from the shadows—but it’s all rooted in guilt and this feral need to protect her.
Their shared history is the gasoline that fuels this firestorm of a story. Every heated word between them carries the weight of ten years of pain, longing, and betrayal. They know exactly how to hurt each other, and exactly how to burn together. The chemistry between Shannen and Phoenix? Absolutely scorching. This isn’t a sweet second-chance romance—it’s a dark, rage-filled, obsession-soaked reckoning.
Lea Rose nailed the emotional intensity—rage, heartbreak, revenge, and longing—all wrapped in a darkly delicious package. By the end, I was screaming for more. I need more of Shannen and Phoenix, more closure, more chaos. Please, Lea, don’t leave us hanging.
If you’re into fast-paced, rage-fueled, obsession-drenched romances with a Halloween bite—Velvet Thorns is going to sink its teeth into you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
I heard dark halloween novella and I ran as fast as possible to this book. And let me tell you.... holy unhinged but so hot. I devoured this book as fast as I possibly could and I'm still thinking about it days later. I need book 2 ASAP because I'm going through withdrawals. It should be a crime to leave such a well done cliffhanger. Is Phoenix a walking red flag, of course, but does the idea of someone being so obsessed you will always be safe and loved from the shadows also sound like the best thing ever? Also yes. I'll take 1 while I wait for book 2. That being said please check the trigger warnings before diving in.
"I broke the most beautiful thing I've ever touched and did it with my bare hands. That's on me."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
"You wanted me to hurt? I did. You wanted me to burn? Baby, I haven't been anything but f*cking ash since the moment you walked away from me."
🖤Halloween Novella
🖤Unhinged MMC
🖤Stalking
🖤Revenge Plot
🖤Obsession
🖤Trauma
🖤Ex Best Friends to Enemies
"You've spent so much time trying to forget me, but you never could. Instead, you made a home for me inside your hell, and I moved in. You just never knew it."
Shannen is a badass FMC, who has completely rebuilt her life and made a name for herself after a rough childhood. After being made fun of day after day because of the life she was dealt was only made better when she had her best friend Phoenix. But even that was too good to be true, as he ended up joining the popular kids and no longer stood up for her. From that moment on she cut Phoenix from her life, until she decided it was finally time to plot her revenge at her high school reunion Halloween party.
Phoenix however, is always two steps ahead. He has been in love with Shannen since being cut out of her life, but his obsession continued to grow once he knew she wasn't coming back. Planning to meet her at the Halloween party was his way of showing her just how obsessed he had become and his only hope of trying to get her back.
"I broke the most beautiful thing I've ever touched and did it with my bare hands. That's on me."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
"You wanted me to hurt? I did. You wanted me to burn? Baby, I haven't been anything but f*cking ash since the moment you walked away from me."
🖤Halloween Novella
🖤Unhinged MMC
🖤Stalking
🖤Revenge Plot
🖤Obsession
🖤Trauma
🖤Ex Best Friends to Enemies
"You've spent so much time trying to forget me, but you never could. Instead, you made a home for me inside your hell, and I moved in. You just never knew it."
Shannen is a badass FMC, who has completely rebuilt her life and made a name for herself after a rough childhood. After being made fun of day after day because of the life she was dealt was only made better when she had her best friend Phoenix. But even that was too good to be true, as he ended up joining the popular kids and no longer stood up for her. From that moment on she cut Phoenix from her life, until she decided it was finally time to plot her revenge at her high school reunion Halloween party.
Phoenix however, is always two steps ahead. He has been in love with Shannen since being cut out of her life, but his obsession continued to grow once he knew she wasn't coming back. Planning to meet her at the Halloween party was his way of showing her just how obsessed he had become and his only hope of trying to get her back.
October 4, 2025
Omg I need Book 2 like yesterday!!! This was such a great read, I ate this novella up!! I was drawn right back to high school and the absolute dread that came with it! I could 100% relate to the FMC and wanting to have that HS reunion glow up that could be thrown in the faces of the people you grew up with!! I was cheering so hard for Shannen!!
Shannen was the high school girl who was bullied relentlessly and always made to feel far less, by everyone. The only person that had seen her, befriended her and cared for her was Phoenix, that is until he became the HS quarterback and left her behind. When his friendship went away, she was even more vulnerable and completely alone. He had protected her and been there for her when her home life was miserable.
But when she is ultimately humiliated for the last time, she hides away, finally able to escape her life and goes on to reinvent herself! She sheds her old life completely and becomes this beautiful, badass business owner who doesn’t look back!! However when she gets an invitation to her 10 year reunion, she decides to attend and get her revenge on the one person who hurt her the most, Phoenix!!
Phoenix was the only friend that Shannen had, but when she encourages him to tryout for the football team and try to make something more of himself, he quickly betrays their friendship and finds an in with the popular crowd. He stops sticking up for Shannen, stands back and doesn’t say anything when she gets hurt, and essentially disappears from her life. When he realizes what he’s done and attempts to fix what’s broken, it all goes wrong, leading to Shannen’s most heartbreaking moment.
Includes:
💔 Bullying
🐦🔥 Revenge plot
💔 Stalking
🐦🔥 Obsessive MMC
💔 Glow up FMC
🐦🔥 Childhood trauma
💔 Unhinged MMC
🐦🔥 Masked FMC
💔 Strong FMC
🐦🔥 Bully her and with you were dead!!
💔 Virgin MMC
🐦🔥 Touch and die
💔 He kills for her
🐦🔥 Friends to Enemies
💔 CLIFFHANGER!! 😳
Shannen was the high school girl who was bullied relentlessly and always made to feel far less, by everyone. The only person that had seen her, befriended her and cared for her was Phoenix, that is until he became the HS quarterback and left her behind. When his friendship went away, she was even more vulnerable and completely alone. He had protected her and been there for her when her home life was miserable.
But when she is ultimately humiliated for the last time, she hides away, finally able to escape her life and goes on to reinvent herself! She sheds her old life completely and becomes this beautiful, badass business owner who doesn’t look back!! However when she gets an invitation to her 10 year reunion, she decides to attend and get her revenge on the one person who hurt her the most, Phoenix!!
Phoenix was the only friend that Shannen had, but when she encourages him to tryout for the football team and try to make something more of himself, he quickly betrays their friendship and finds an in with the popular crowd. He stops sticking up for Shannen, stands back and doesn’t say anything when she gets hurt, and essentially disappears from her life. When he realizes what he’s done and attempts to fix what’s broken, it all goes wrong, leading to Shannen’s most heartbreaking moment.
Includes:
💔 Bullying
🐦🔥 Revenge plot
💔 Stalking
🐦🔥 Obsessive MMC
💔 Glow up FMC
🐦🔥 Childhood trauma
💔 Unhinged MMC
🐦🔥 Masked FMC
💔 Strong FMC
🐦🔥 Bully her and with you were dead!!
💔 Virgin MMC
🐦🔥 Touch and die
💔 He kills for her
🐦🔥 Friends to Enemies
💔 CLIFFHANGER!! 😳
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