Plagued

by Conway Titty, Eliza Nunez (Illustrator)

In the time of pestilence, love is the most dangerous contagion.

Plagued is an unforgettable and enthralling journey where love, persistence, and duplicity intertwine. This historical fiction novel is replete with vivid, atmospheric details that drag readers into a haunting romance that will hold them in a vice of dread and elation.

Set against the backdrop of the 14th century, during one of the most devastating times in the Bubonic Plague. It tells the story of Rosannah Vanali, a barmaid in Messina, Italy, where the sickness has just arrived. She must navigate a world ravaged by fear, death and despair, all while trying to escape the relentless grip of the plague that threatens to take everything she has ever known.

During this tumultuous time, an intense, forbidden love blossoms that defies the darkness of the world around it. Rosannah encounters a complex and beguiling figure who may alter her existence forever. These two souls find each other amidst the carnage, grief, and contracts, where each moment could be their last. As they fight to survive, their love becomes both a beacon of hope and a dangerous temptation. In a time when love can be as fleeting as life itself, their connection just might be a love story that lasts for eternity.

For fans of romance, historical drama and stories of survival in the face of unimaginable horror. This debut novel will guide you through a harrowing descent into the deepest chambers of the heart as you follow these characters' journeys across the onset of catastrophe.

This book is meant for 18+ and has a list of 75 trigger warnings. Reader discretion is advised.

Genres: Historical, Dark

341 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

About the author

Conway Titty is a country-western, Native American creator living in Oklahoma. For the past decade, she has worked as a sex worker and content creator, building a community with a mix of humor, grit, and organic honesty. A lifelong passion for reading and writing began in childhood and has grown into the dream of publishing novels that resonate with authenticity, something she considers deeply important in both life and art. Beyond writing, Conway enjoys video games and regularly streams them, using gaming as another way to connect with people. With an eye always on the horizon, she dreams of one day owning a bison ranch, a place that represents freedom, legacy, and a life built on staying true to oneself. Whether through storytelling, streaming, or chasing prairie dreams, Conway’s voice remains unapologetically fearless, sincere, and wild.

Reviews

[Elizabeth Stegman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free advanced reader copy of Plagued in exchange for an honest review.

I DEVOURED this book, such a good story, and the writing was so well done. I felt like I was there with the characters living it, cheering for them, heartbroken for them. Reading about the 14th century is out of my normal reading, but this book was so worth stepping out of my comfort zone. Definitely recommend reading it, make sure to check the menu.... I mean trigger warnings before reading.

[Cheyenne Coup · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plagued is based in the 1400s and my goodness did the author did an incredible job on researching this era and the environment because while reading you truly feel like you’ve been transported to this time frame.

The fmc was a short independent woman with buried anger and a best friend who dreamed big. The man was 6’5 with mix matched eyes (need I say more?!) I mean come on how could you not fall for the shadow masked man.

This book was spicy, and complex and emotional all wrapped up into a perfect little bow. I did not expect this book to touch me so deeply and make me feel every emotion they felt. I did not expect this book to linger with me so long after closing.

This book was truly incredible not only in the story but the emotions and the beauty in life and death and how it can linger with you for a long time and I just know without a doubt I will be picking it up again soon.

I received a free advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review. I hope you guys loved this as much as I did.

[Amber H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as a free advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

I never expected to fall into a story about a barmaid falling in love with a grim reaper during the plague but surprisingly, it worked beautifully. The characters felt relatable and real: Rosannah, a woman yearning for love, and Adra, a reaper torn between his duty and his growing affection for her. Their tension and chemistry kept me turning pages, and I was invested in seeing how their choices would play out.

This unique blend of historical atmosphere, romance, and supernatural elements made for a compelling read, and I’m excited to see what this author creates next.

[Conway Titty · Rating 5 out of 5]

HEAR YE! HEAR YE! 📜

I am proud to present my debut novel! I hope yall enjoy it as much as I loved writing it. Thank you for considering my book whether you finish it or not. This book is made for 18+. It has a list of 75 trigger warnings. I hope you enjoy this horny, tragic, & tumultuous tale.

Thank you for being apart of my author journey!
HUZZAH! 🦠🐀💫

Much love🖤
Conway Titty

[Silence Staats · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I wanted to say a big thankful to Conway for allowing me to read this before the release date. I was immediately sold of the idea of a sensual romance set in the time during the Bubonic Plague. But Plagued was more than that. Plagued was a beautifully complex written work. It touches on illness, death, grief, love, and finding a love so entirely, that you can survive off of memories alone. The scenery? Descriptions? The language? All gorgeous, gorgeously done, and easy to follow along with. Conway, you’re going to have a constant reader in me, with anything you publish.

[Victoria Coburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

The author definitely did her research and was very detailed and descriptive. I felt immersed in the story especially in the rooms where the characters were in. The MMC was hot as hell with his mix matched eyes and tall and broad frame. The MMC just wanted love her whole life and when she finally found it, the man was head over heels for her. It was a great read and I’m excited to read more from this author.

[Danielle McGuire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plagued by Conway Titty is a historical romance that takes place in the 14th century. We meet Rosannah, a bar maid in Italy where a sickness has just arrived. At the same time we meet Adrastus who caries an air of mystery about himself. A forbidden love blossoms between the two. The stakes were high stakes in the romance and kept me on the edge of the seat. The passion between Adrastus and Rosannah is otherworldly and unmatched.

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

[Kassie Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not how i saw that ending 😩

Our poor Adra. What a beautifully heartbreaking book

[iesha Bright · Rating 5 out of 5]

my first by this author and it wont be the last.
check triggers cuz there are quite a bit.

so this book was something i didnt expect. i truly felt all the emotions while reading this. i hadnt expected to feel so much. every emotion was like a an explosion, every moment like a movie scene in my mind. i wasnt expecting to shed tears. truly an amazing book. i can def see me picking it up for a reread.

[Bonnie Cabral · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gothic, sexy, and soul touching do I need to say more ? The way the book touches feeling in a way you wouldn’t expect it too is truly magnificent the writing is so beyond beautiful. Beauty in death and beauty in life ! This is my first 5 star read of September and I honestly would give it more if I could, go add this to your TBR right now and if you don’t you’re truly missing out !

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

i felt every detail, every moment so deep in my soul. beauty in life and love. beauty in loss. i’m sitting here in silence just in awe of this book and the way it was written. truly magnificent💫

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review✨

[Hallie Raine · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

plagued is set in the 14th century bubonic plagues era. adra the mmc is like a grim reaper. a s0ul collector, not from this realm. rosannah is a mortal bar tender. adra has never fallen for a mortal until now.

a ship ports with all the passengers already over taken by the plague. adra and his fellows collect the s0uls. the plague is overtaking every town. adra is trying to help rosannah escape the plague, so they run away and he’s breaking his contract to be with her.

it’s a spicy read. i enjoyed reading adra and rosannahs story!! its different than most books ive read, and totally worth it. be sure to get your copy on october 1st!!

[MangaBanshee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touched me in ways I didn’t expect. I felt every emotion so deeply, every moment so vividly—and for the very first time, a book actually brought me to tears. It’s a story that lingers in your heart long after you finish, and I already know I’ll be reading it again. Truly a must-read. (I read this book in one day!)
-I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.-

[Cayla Pitts · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐ rounding up to 4⭐

Plagued is a hauntingly atmospheric dark historical romance with paranormal and monster elements, set against the backdrop of early 14th-century Italy as the plague begins to spread. Rosannah, a barmaid with a hopelessly romantic heart, finds herself entangled in a story that is equal parts tragic and tender.

Conway does a fantastic job pulling you into the time period—the sights, smells, and fears of the plague years feel vivid and well-researched. At times, the descriptions leaned a bit heavy, and I found the pacing dipped in the middle. That said, the raw, gut-wrenching emotion of the final chapters more than made up for it. I was literally sobbing in bed while my husband patted my back like, “It’s okay, babe.”

For a debut, this is an impressive and ambitious story. If you’re in the mood for a spicy, heartbreaking love story wrapped in historical horror and paranormal intrigue, Plagued deserves a spot on your TBR.

[Kiwi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

Here is my review of this book. Where do I even start? Going into this, when I first found out about the book, I was intrigued by the cover alone. This is the second ARC reading I've done, and I have to say this has been one of the best ones so far. The story of Rosannah and Adra really pulls you in. You can also tell that Conway really did her research on the topic. and all the emotions she felt, as well as what she wants the reader to feel. I highly suggest this book if you are a historical smut-loving person of any gender! Just get ready for a rollercoaster and a plot twist.

The Book officially comes out on October 1st, so go get yourself a copy. I know I will be buying a physical copy of this book for my trophy shelf. I cannot wait to read more by you, keep up the great work!

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

It’s so difficult for me to even put together words about this book, but in the best way. The story came to life and I truly FELT everything in this book. I laughed, I cried, I audibly gasped in shock, I felt the HEAT of the love the main characters shared, and so much more. The detail and care that was poured into this book is abundantly clear. I’m so shocked that this is the author’s debut! I can’t wait to see what this author puts out next!

[Simply alenaaaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

what can I say!? I got totally wrapped into the story of Rosannah and Adra it was beautiful and at times very dark but there was always light in those dark moments. I laughed, SOBBED, blushed, basically felt every emotion while reading. It's not fair to say this is just a book because it gave me so much more than a good time. It gave me hope and healed parts of me I didn't know were still wounded.

I'm so thankful to have arc read this. Conway has truly made a masterpiece that I'll carry with me for eternity.

[Johnnya Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean…wow! I never had a book make me cry like this one did. The details, the emotions, the passion and depth of this story was so breathtaking and heartbreaking all at the same time. If you want to be swept away to another reality , please read this book. You would not regret it, even with 75 trigger warnings. But what Ms. Conway gave, it was needed. Who knew a historical fiction book could make me feel love and both death at the same time .

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

[Molly G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadow daddy but make it bubonic.

This book was touching (emotionally and also they were touching each other… a lot *wink wink*). I didn’t know a book about feisty barmaid and a mysterious man wearing a plague doctor mask would make me feel so many emotions. I laughed, I cried, I marveled at the author’s beautiful writing and dedication to making this book feel so real.

Thank you Conway for the ARC!

[Rebecca Peart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book shows a love that is beyond just a human love. It had me crying, screaming, and so turned on! It shows the B,ack death in a way I have never seen. I love history and this brought it into a light never seen before! Absolutely stunning Morning Star!!!

[Tamara Stephenson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 ⭐

Mortal Barmaid FMC
Reaper Shadow Daddy MMC
Dual Pov
Tragic Forbidden Love
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
75 trigger warnings


The story takes place in the 1400s at the start of the Bubonic Plague. Rosannah , FMC, is a barmaid who lives a life lacking what she wants most: love. She has one pleasure in life, her best friend Gia, that is until Adra sweeps into her life.


From the moment Rosannah and Adra lay eyes on one another, the chemistry and yearning is instant. The two join together in a race against time against the rapid spread of the plague, which is why Shadow Daddy himself is there: to fulfill a contract ordered by his master, Death. That's right, Rosannah is on the run with one of the immortal reapers of souls. Adra, does everything in his power to shield and protect Rosannah from the horrified plague....even until......until....you gotta read the book. BE PREPARED FOR ALL THE EMOTIONS AT THE END 😭

The reason I gave the read a 3.5 is because it was a very easy read with a good amount of blood, gore, justice against injustice and smut. The reason why I didn't give it more than 3.5 is because it was more smut than substance. Don't get me wrong, I love a good smut read smothered, covered and scattered in trigger warnings 🫦 tbh, the more the merrier (I may have a problem 👁️👄👁️)...but I also love a good meaty center that paints a fantastic picture making it fulfilling. I would have loved a deeper dive into the potential conflict with Death that Adra risked by falling in love with a mortal. There was even a set up where Adra had a conversation with another reaper concerning Rosannah. A chance for Adra to potentially be confronted by Death over his mortal, aka a battle of the underworld. It just seemed the story flew once the FMC met the MMC.

Bar-plague-instant love-sex-more sex- great sex-the end.

Overall, I enjoyed the read and recommend you also take the dive. I had a good time here. I was privileged to win this book directly from the author via her tictok. I hope she continues to write and pour herself into her writing. I will definitely read her next book shall she proceeds to write one.

❤️

[Angela Griffin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was 3 1/2⭐️ for me. This story is about the Bubonic plague and a woman desperate for someone to love and love her. It’s a love story between Rosannah and a mysterious man named Adrastus. She is a barmaid and he is a collector of souls. This book was just ok for me. There was a lot of spice and a lot of emotions, but I felt like there could’ve been more action or plot to it. I appreciate the opportunity to read this as an ARC, but it just wasn’t for me.

[Anna Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review. 🫶🏻
•
•
“You breathed life into a being that never knew what life really was. You made me realize how hollow I was, how utterly meaningless my existence had been before you.” 😭

my heart!!!!!!!! my goodness, the full and overwhelming feeling of love and grief felt was truly something- I could feel everything that they were feeling as if I were a fly on the wall and I adored it 😭 To choose a setting like this in the 14th Century is interesting and was executed so well, truly I felt the fear of the unknown rushing through the characters but also, created such raw and tangible emotions I felt horrified for them experiencing the time of the Black Death.

But, Rosannah, sweet girl I just want to hug her 😭 her feelings were loud and inviting and oh so real- to feel so related to someone is an indescribable feeling. She truly deserved everything Adra offered her whether it was his brute strength in protection or his perfectly honed bedroom experience;) and definitely his eloquent expression of his love for her!!!!! My favorite parts were truly his unraveling of love for her, to her, and about her!!!!!🥹🖤 and damn it did it hurt at the end, I just knew it was coming but hoping it wasn’t 😭😭😭😭 bc immortal beings deserve love too!

I have followed Conway on socials for a while now, since about 2017 and to see the growth to this point has been so fun and inspiring to see!!! If you do see this, I love your expression and absolute badass way you live your wild & fun life, I can’t wait to see more of what you do!!!🫶🏻

I truly was SO thankful for receiving an ARC, I was GEEKED to see this coming to life, THANK YOU!!!!!!🖤🖤🖤

[Amanda L. Panda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trope:
Barmaid FMC
Immoral MMC
tragic love story
Forbidden love
Size difference
Dual POV

Plagued is based in the 14th century. I love the book cover. It’s beautiful .
Reading about the 14th century is out of my normal reading, the author did an incredible job on researching for her story. This is the second different century book, I picked up,that is somewhat in the same era. The writing style is significant better for the story it’s supposed to be in. I was not disappointed.
This story is about the Bubonic plague and a woman desperate for someone to love and love her.
I’m not a fan of InstaLove but mutually yearning is wonders .
There was a lot of spice and a lot of emotions. A forbidden love blossoms between the two. I did not expect this book to linger with me so long after closing. It did take me a while to read this, not the books fault.
My favorite quote, “After everything you’re endured you still shine. You’re still you. Bright, kind, resilient, and more remarkable than I could ever put into words” Pg 183

**Spoilers***
It’s unfortunate on what happened to Gia, I was just thinking if there’s was a second book connected to this series mid-read at 50%, I would’ve liked Gia’s story. 90% got me sad on how tragic it had ended.
The Fmc died from the plague, and the MMC is left in a drowning grief for eternity . I am not Okay

Definitely recommend reading it,
The raw emotions gave a refreshing feel towards the book. Advised to make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading. I look forward to the next books.

[Jessica Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free advanced reader copy of Plagued in exchange for an honest review.

This book surprised me in the best way. It’s set in 14th-century Messina during the Black Death, which already gives it a heavy, haunting atmosphere, but the author also manages to weave in a really tender and complicated romance. I liked how the love story didn’t feel out of place if anything, it made the darker moments hit harder because there was actually something at stake beyond survival.

Rosannah was a character I connected with right away. She’s tough but still vulnerable, and her choices felt believable given everything collapsing around her. The romance itself is both comforting and risky, which kept me hooked.

I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because a few sections slowed down for me, and there were moments where I could kind of see where things were headed. But overall, it was gripping, emotional, and way more immersive than I expected. If you like historical fiction that leans into tragedy but still leaves you with something hopeful, I’d definitely recommend it.

[Megan Harvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first, I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.

Secondly… I need to gather myself.

Okay, let’s do it. I struggled at the beginning, I have followed Conway for almost 10 years at this point and really wanted to support this adventure so I stuck through it and I’m SOOOO GLADD I did. I struggled with the amount of adjectives and (what I felt were) unnecessary words and descriptions. However, I’m not the professional here. I LOVED the inner dialogue and ADHD friendly (side notes).

This book left me in tears, which doesn’t happen often. Read the trigger warnings and kink list. It won’t be for everyone and that’s okay. If you get past those pages, strap on your corset and 14th century get up for a quick but beautiful love story. 💚

[St3phAmongBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

“One gaze upon her exposed flesh has me crumbling like a cathedral under the weight of sin”-Adra 🫠 first of all I do want to say I did receive Plagued by Conway Titty as an ARC for an honest review with that being said…sweet baby Jesus what a damn ride! Loved this book loved the writing loved the spice! I should have listened when someone said to have tissues close by! Imagine falling in love during the Bubonic plague….im not going to spoil anything but all I can say is get the book! It comes out tomorrow! Also keep in mind this book does have darkness and comes with 75 trigger warnings so please make sure to review those before starting. Now make sure yall get it tomorrow guys cuz holy shit! Conway Titty you did your damn thing with this book BRAVO!

[Isabel Cooley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a FREE advanced reader copy of Plagued from Conway Titty in exchange for an honest review.
This story took a moment to grip me but once it did it wouldn't let go. Rosannah's bright spirit, determination, and ability to keep moving forward made her a delight to read. Adra was a force in himself and there relationship developed in a way that delighted. It was a sexy fun read that pulled my hear out set against the backdrop of the plague. The reapers were excellent and I enjoyed the world building so much. My only gripe was some of the word choices threw me. That said, I would reccomend to lovers of doomed romances and spice.

[Gil-Lana Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Early Reader Copy.

Plagued by Conway Titty is a gritty and emotional debut set in 14th-century Italy during the Black Death. Through the eyes of Rosannah Vanali, a barmaid fighting to survive, the story blends historical detail with romance and heartbreak. The atmosphere is vivid, the stakes feel real, and the love story adds urgency to the despair. While the pacing can be uneven and some side characters could use more depth, the novel’s raw emotion and haunting setting make it a memorable read. ★★★★☆

[Acacia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark, bold, and unforgettable.

This is a gothic story set in medieval Messina, where we follow Rosannah, a tavern worker caught up in unrequited love, jealousy, and her own complicated desires. At the same time, a strange, plague-like darkness begins to spread through the city, adding an eerie sense of dread.

The writing is lush and paints a picture, you can almost smell the tavern and feel the sea air. It’s bold, sensual, sometimes even shocking.

A daring debut that balances beauty with darkness. I have a feeling Rosannah and her world will stick with me for a while.