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The Nightmare Bride
He’s planning their wedding. She’s planning his funeral.
Life in a remote, storm-wracked swamp isn’t all bad—Harlowe has a crumbling manor to call home, thread to patch her dresses (again), and almost enough to eat. Sure, the eldritch storms that sweep the bayou inflict hallucinatory nightmares on everyone in their path, but Harlowe would never dream of leaving. Not when her best friend, Amryssa, needs her.
Then Amryssa’s father arranges her marriage to a sadistic prince, and Harlowe does the she takes her friend’s place at the altar, determined to get close enough to drive her dagger through the prince’s heart.
Except Harlowe’s new husband isn’t what she expects. Instead of cruelty, she finds charm, a quick wit, and a sparkling gaze that makes her pulse quicken. Worse, the prince proves inexplicably immune to the storms. But if he isn’t the monster everyone fears...who is he?
As the nightmares increase and threaten Amryssa’s very existence, Harlowe races to uncover the manor’s secrets—and her husband’s. Soon, she must decide what matters the man she vowed to destroy, or the woman she swore to save.
Life in a remote, storm-wracked swamp isn’t all bad—Harlowe has a crumbling manor to call home, thread to patch her dresses (again), and almost enough to eat. Sure, the eldritch storms that sweep the bayou inflict hallucinatory nightmares on everyone in their path, but Harlowe would never dream of leaving. Not when her best friend, Amryssa, needs her.
Then Amryssa’s father arranges her marriage to a sadistic prince, and Harlowe does the she takes her friend’s place at the altar, determined to get close enough to drive her dagger through the prince’s heart.
Except Harlowe’s new husband isn’t what she expects. Instead of cruelty, she finds charm, a quick wit, and a sparkling gaze that makes her pulse quicken. Worse, the prince proves inexplicably immune to the storms. But if he isn’t the monster everyone fears...who is he?
As the nightmares increase and threaten Amryssa’s very existence, Harlowe races to uncover the manor’s secrets—and her husband’s. Soon, she must decide what matters the man she vowed to destroy, or the woman she swore to save.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
130 people are currently reading
1181 people want to read
About the author
Shaylin Gandhi
11 books412 followersShaylin Gandhi first fell in love with love stories when she started stealing grown-up books off her mother’s bookshelf at the age of ten. By twelve, she’d perfected the art of reading under the covers by flashlight, and in high school, she attempted her first novel. She now writes from the mountains of Golden, Colorado, where she lives with her husband and identical twin daughters. When not finagling words onto paper, Shaylin can be found hiking, scheming up ways to earn another passport stamp, or ingesting enough coffee to power a small city.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 12, 2026
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── 5 stars
truly might be my favourite romantasy books i've ever read.
the writing style in this book was just so immersive and beautiful, i am in love with her choice of storytelling. as this was single pov, you had to feel the yearning from the mmc and it's truly just a whole experience.
harlowe despises the prince she's married to, plans his murder and is plotting for a way to get rid of him. he's out here yearning for a touch from her and wanting her so much. the angst and betrayal in this book was so damn good. i'm so mad it's a standalone because i truly cannot get enough of these characters.
if you're a fan of yearning, marriage of convenience, gothic romantasy, betrayals and enemies to lovers im begging to you read this book !!!! out now on KU <3
thank you to shaylin and the nerd fam for an e-copy!
truly might be my favourite romantasy books i've ever read.
the writing style in this book was just so immersive and beautiful, i am in love with her choice of storytelling. as this was single pov, you had to feel the yearning from the mmc and it's truly just a whole experience.
harlowe despises the prince she's married to, plans his murder and is plotting for a way to get rid of him. he's out here yearning for a touch from her and wanting her so much. the angst and betrayal in this book was so damn good. i'm so mad it's a standalone because i truly cannot get enough of these characters.
if you're a fan of yearning, marriage of convenience, gothic romantasy, betrayals and enemies to lovers im begging to you read this book !!!! out now on KU <3
thank you to shaylin and the nerd fam for an e-copy!
December 7, 2025
“I’m a handful. Too much.”
“Well,” he said. “As one handful to another, I think you’re just enough.”
Truly a standalone, I'm kind of shocked?? The worldbuilding was unique, the romance a slow burn, the storyline was interesting and had some twists that kept me wanting to read more and more. I guessed one of them during the scene, but it was still a satisfying reveal.
Now, personally, I was so annoyed that they didn't just .
Another thing that kind of annoyed me was Harlowe never ever putting herself first, it was always Amryssa this, Amryssa that, the only selfish thing she did, was . On the other hand, her undying loyalty is admirable, and something anyone would want in a friend.
Some of the side characters could've used more development, but I did have a clear favourite nonetheless. I liked his little side romance, and that he got his own happy ending too.
Bonus points for making Ky a ginger (don't tell him I said that) and completely obsessed with Harlowe right from the start.
“Well,” he said. “As one handful to another, I think you’re just enough.”
Truly a standalone, I'm kind of shocked?? The worldbuilding was unique, the romance a slow burn, the storyline was interesting and had some twists that kept me wanting to read more and more. I guessed one of them during the scene, but it was still a satisfying reveal.
Now, personally, I was so annoyed that they didn't just .
Another thing that kind of annoyed me was Harlowe never ever putting herself first, it was always Amryssa this, Amryssa that, the only selfish thing she did, was . On the other hand, her undying loyalty is admirable, and something anyone would want in a friend.
Some of the side characters could've used more development, but I did have a clear favourite nonetheless. I liked his little side romance, and that he got his own happy ending too.
Bonus points for making Ky a ginger (don't tell him I said that) and completely obsessed with Harlowe right from the start.
January 4, 2026
The gothic atmosphere and charming-yet-mysterious prince had me hooked from the start, but the heroine changed my brain chemistry. Her journey from self sacrifice to finding the courage to be seen and loved—delivered via a sizzling hot romance—will stay in my heart forever. The Nightmare Bride is an immediate fave!
January 28, 2026
I really loved this book. Ky was everything and Harlowe needed him more than she thought. Some discoveries were really goofy (if you know which ones I'm talking about). The entire book was well written, I just wish we got to see more of some of the other characters like Amryssa.
September 24, 2025
6⭐️ this book really exceeded my expectations! 😍
The world building, mystery, and banter were all 10/10
I am interested in reading more from this author now
The world building, mystery, and banter were all 10/10
I am interested in reading more from this author now
November 10, 2025
This is a wonderful standalone romantasy. From the start of the story it intrigued me with the world building and magic. I really enjoyed the multiple plotlines woven together every thing fit perfectly. Harlowe is an absolute badass that would do anything for her friend Amryssa.
But she is so funny and has such a sharp tongue.
Ky is such a beautiful, proud and self-absorbed Prince that I would not mind sharing my bed with. The chemistry between the characters is so delicious.
thank you to Nerdfam and the author Shaylin Gandhi for trusting me with a copy of this book.
But she is so funny and has such a sharp tongue.
Ky is such a beautiful, proud and self-absorbed Prince that I would not mind sharing my bed with. The chemistry between the characters is so delicious.
thank you to Nerdfam and the author Shaylin Gandhi for trusting me with a copy of this book.
January 29, 2026
Holy crap, each book I’ve read by Shaylin Gandhi I’m drawn deeper and deeper into #1 fan position (Disclaimer: not meant in a stalker kind of way). The first two books were contemporary romance, and since I’ve recently been dipping my toes back into the fantasy realm, I knew I needed to check one of hers out. The Nightmare Bride kept me invested up until the last page and I was crying for more from our two lovebirds and the people introduced within their love story. Our FMC, Harlowe, was easy to like. Her dedication to her best friend, Amryssa, and keeping her safe was inspiring. She never gave up on her and I appreciated her spunk! The world built and the backstory of the Nightmares was clever, and the mystery of how to rid them was fun as each small clue is revealed. I liked the slower pacing, it fit with this story and never dragged. I skipped not one sentence and if some of us are honest, we do a tad bit of skipping at the boring, mundane parts. The banter between Harlowe and MMC, Kai, alternated between funny and sexy, without being over sugary. He wasn’t all Harlowe thought and this turns out to be in all the best ways. I liked the resolution at the end for all the players involved and will definitely check out Gandhi’s other fantasy books available.
November 6, 2025
Such a unique book in the best way possible!!! The flirty banter had me giggling and kicking my feet, I love a cocky MMC. The plot twists were sooo good, they had me GLUED to the pages. The FMC's insane overprotectiveness of Amryssa had me slightly annoyed at some point, but I love the character developement and how it all played out in the end. Would definitely recommend!!!
December 6, 2025
It didn’t grab me.
Sorry!
Sorry!
January 8, 2026
The Nightmare Bride
by Shaylin Gandhi
What an incredibly atmospheric read.
From the very first pages, I was completely drawn into this eerie, storm-wracked swamp setting. The crumbling manor, the storms, the nighmares, and the lingering sense of unease create such a rich, immersive backdrop that it’s impossible not to get swept up in the story. I genuinely enjoyed the plot, and I especially loved that the twists kept me guessing. I had theories, but none of them landed, and I always appreciate when a story surprises me like that.
The push and pull between the FMC and MMC was compelling, and I loved their dynamic overall. This is an extremely slow burn, though, and while I normally enjoy that, here it felt a little stretched. The tension is well written, but at times it felt like the story kept finding reasons to delay emotional progress, which made the payoff arrive later than I personally needed.
I also didn’t fully connect with the FMC, Harlowe, as much as I wanted to. While her motivations are explained, her absolute devotion to Amryssa didn’t completely click for me on an emotional level. That said, this is very much a personal preference rather than a flaw in the writing. On the other hand, I absolutely adored the MMC, Kay. His charm, wit, and confidence made him such a standout character.
Overall, this is a beautifully written, moody fantasy romance with a strong atmosphere, an engaging mystery, and a slow burn that will really work for the right reader. If you enjoy immersive settings, tension, and stories that take their time unfolding, this one is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Story: 4 stars
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you The NerdFam and Shaylin Gandhi for the review copy, all opinions are my own.
by Shaylin Gandhi
What an incredibly atmospheric read.
From the very first pages, I was completely drawn into this eerie, storm-wracked swamp setting. The crumbling manor, the storms, the nighmares, and the lingering sense of unease create such a rich, immersive backdrop that it’s impossible not to get swept up in the story. I genuinely enjoyed the plot, and I especially loved that the twists kept me guessing. I had theories, but none of them landed, and I always appreciate when a story surprises me like that.
The push and pull between the FMC and MMC was compelling, and I loved their dynamic overall. This is an extremely slow burn, though, and while I normally enjoy that, here it felt a little stretched. The tension is well written, but at times it felt like the story kept finding reasons to delay emotional progress, which made the payoff arrive later than I personally needed.
I also didn’t fully connect with the FMC, Harlowe, as much as I wanted to. While her motivations are explained, her absolute devotion to Amryssa didn’t completely click for me on an emotional level. That said, this is very much a personal preference rather than a flaw in the writing. On the other hand, I absolutely adored the MMC, Kay. His charm, wit, and confidence made him such a standout character.
Overall, this is a beautifully written, moody fantasy romance with a strong atmosphere, an engaging mystery, and a slow burn that will really work for the right reader. If you enjoy immersive settings, tension, and stories that take their time unfolding, this one is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Story: 4 stars
🌶️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you The NerdFam and Shaylin Gandhi for the review copy, all opinions are my own.
November 21, 2025
The Nightmare Bride was absolutely captivating in its dark, horrifying, nightmarish glory. He’s planning their wedding. She’s planning his funeral. And honestly? That alone had me immediately desperate for this ARC!!
There were so many elements I adored. Harlowe is the kind of FMC who is fiercely loyal to her core, even when that loyalty costs her peace and her own happiness. And Ky? Undeniably Ky, even before you fully understand him. He truly feels tailor-made for the Carrion Swift girlies.. quick-witted, morally delicious, sharp-tongued, and yes… falls first. The way “lioness” and “wife” rolled off his tongue??? I simply was NOT prepared. 😮💨
“If you had no desire to be conquered, you should never have conquered me, first.”
"You're a force of nature, lioness. Once you embrace that, nothing will stand in your way."
The friendship between Harlowe and Amryssa was equally beautiful, more sisters than friends. Two women trying so hard to protect and please one another when all they really needed was permission to choose themselves. It felt raw and real in the best way. & Lunk… oh my goodness. I didn’t even know I needed him as much as I did. The biggest, softest teddy bear. I would pay actual money for character art of him and a certain someone together ((;
Overall, this story pulled me in quickly and refused to let go. The twists genuinely shocked me (always my favorite), the magic system was intriguing, and the characters completely stole my heart. I just wanted to stay longer in this eerie, romantic world. I definitely recommend adding to tbr!!
There were so many elements I adored. Harlowe is the kind of FMC who is fiercely loyal to her core, even when that loyalty costs her peace and her own happiness. And Ky? Undeniably Ky, even before you fully understand him. He truly feels tailor-made for the Carrion Swift girlies.. quick-witted, morally delicious, sharp-tongued, and yes… falls first. The way “lioness” and “wife” rolled off his tongue??? I simply was NOT prepared. 😮💨
“If you had no desire to be conquered, you should never have conquered me, first.”
"You're a force of nature, lioness. Once you embrace that, nothing will stand in your way."
The friendship between Harlowe and Amryssa was equally beautiful, more sisters than friends. Two women trying so hard to protect and please one another when all they really needed was permission to choose themselves. It felt raw and real in the best way. & Lunk… oh my goodness. I didn’t even know I needed him as much as I did. The biggest, softest teddy bear. I would pay actual money for character art of him and a certain someone together ((;
Overall, this story pulled me in quickly and refused to let go. The twists genuinely shocked me (always my favorite), the magic system was intriguing, and the characters completely stole my heart. I just wanted to stay longer in this eerie, romantic world. I definitely recommend adding to tbr!!
December 15, 2025
This book is the stand alone Romantasy of my dreams!
A stabby FMC, an arranged marriage, convincing him to marry the wrong woman, a plot to unalive the husband, a magical dagger, nightmares that storm through the town, other man drama with the FMCs situationship, and the most delicious of slow burns.
Harlowe is the keymistress for a princess that is being married off to Prince Kyven of a neighboring kingdom. When Harlowe gets word from an old friend that the Price is a sadistic and evil man responsible for the disappearance of women in his Kingdom she decides to take matters into her own plans. She will marry the Prince in her friends place and unalive the Prince on their wedding night. But Kyven isn't anything like Harlowe was expecting; he's calm, helpful, and has one of the smartest mouths that rivals Harlowe's mouth.
The banter, the chemistry, the plot, the character building, everything was just so perfect! This is one of my favorite Romantasy reads of the year, and did I mention it's a STANDALOINE!!!!
Obsessed! I love this book with every fiber of my being and I just want everyone to read it.
Thank you again to The Nerd Fam and the Author for the gifted copy!
A stabby FMC, an arranged marriage, convincing him to marry the wrong woman, a plot to unalive the husband, a magical dagger, nightmares that storm through the town, other man drama with the FMCs situationship, and the most delicious of slow burns.
Harlowe is the keymistress for a princess that is being married off to Prince Kyven of a neighboring kingdom. When Harlowe gets word from an old friend that the Price is a sadistic and evil man responsible for the disappearance of women in his Kingdom she decides to take matters into her own plans. She will marry the Prince in her friends place and unalive the Prince on their wedding night. But Kyven isn't anything like Harlowe was expecting; he's calm, helpful, and has one of the smartest mouths that rivals Harlowe's mouth.
The banter, the chemistry, the plot, the character building, everything was just so perfect! This is one of my favorite Romantasy reads of the year, and did I mention it's a STANDALOINE!!!!
Obsessed! I love this book with every fiber of my being and I just want everyone to read it.
Thank you again to The Nerd Fam and the Author for the gifted copy!
January 2, 2026
Nightmares as a literal storm? A story of sisterly love and self-sacrifice? SIGN ME UP
I loved this standalone gothic romantasy! I love how creative it was and I also loved how Harlowe’s character made me feel so seen
I loved this standalone gothic romantasy! I love how creative it was and I also loved how Harlowe’s character made me feel so seen
January 13, 2026
3.5 ✨
Glad I found this on KU; it was an enjoyable read!
“Lioness” did make me cringe a bit ngl, despite how accurate the nickname is 🥹
Glad I found this on KU; it was an enjoyable read!
“Lioness” did make me cringe a bit ngl, despite how accurate the nickname is 🥹
November 11, 2025
Harlow has spent her entire life trying to protect her best friend, so when that means marrying a wicked prince in her friend's place to kill him on their wedding night, she does so readily. Except the prince isn't what she expected. And he has secrets that may save her home. And her best friend is going insane by the day, called into the swamp by magical nightmares. As the lines between wrong and right (and hatred and love) start to blur, Harlow must decide who she is really trying to protect and what she's willing to risk to do so.
The worldbuilding in The Nightmare Bride was incredibly unique and interesting. Nightmares that literally drive people crazy? Well that sounds like the perfect dash of magic in a crumbling castle at the edge of the world. No matter how much I loved the setting, I wished the characters and the plot had been fleshed out a little more. The two main leads were well developed, but everyone around them felt like shadows. The plot was also paced a bit oddly, and everything resolved too quickly. That being said, I still enjoyed the story and would recommended for fans of short gothic romances.
Read if you like...
🗡️Enemies-to-lovers because of circumstance
🗡️Haunted castles and dark forests
🗡️He isn't afraid of her sharp edges
🗡️Learning to live without fear
🗡️Arranged marriages that get turned on their head
🗡️"Lioness." / "Prince."
🗡️Ghosts and sleeping gods
🗡️Forbidden love (despite being married)
Thank you to the NerdFam and the author for an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
The worldbuilding in The Nightmare Bride was incredibly unique and interesting. Nightmares that literally drive people crazy? Well that sounds like the perfect dash of magic in a crumbling castle at the edge of the world. No matter how much I loved the setting, I wished the characters and the plot had been fleshed out a little more. The two main leads were well developed, but everyone around them felt like shadows. The plot was also paced a bit oddly, and everything resolved too quickly. That being said, I still enjoyed the story and would recommended for fans of short gothic romances.
Read if you like...
🗡️Enemies-to-lovers because of circumstance
🗡️Haunted castles and dark forests
🗡️He isn't afraid of her sharp edges
🗡️Learning to live without fear
🗡️Arranged marriages that get turned on their head
🗡️"Lioness." / "Prince."
🗡️Ghosts and sleeping gods
🗡️Forbidden love (despite being married)
Thank you to the NerdFam and the author for an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
December 2, 2025
Oh my gosh???? This was so good, WHAT!!! I mean, I loved the cover so had to request it on The Nerd Fam but I never have high expectations, and this one exceeded them. I was so intrigued with the characters and the unique world that I read this in one sitting!
Things I loved:
🥀Like I said above, the world was unique. It didn't feel like standard Medieval fantasy, and while we didn't get too in depth with the magic or anything (def more romance focused), I understood it just fine and liked it.
🥀I LOVEDDDDDD Ky. What a refreshing change from Shadow Daddies. He was fun, he was flirty, he knew exactly how to charm away my distrust. Like I love a man who is on his knees, and he was definitely on them for her.
🥀She was lowkey selfless but also a bitch and I really resonated with that
🥀Ky deserves another bullet just thinking about him
🥀The spice!!! Tension was built up properly so while the spice scenes were nothing crazy, they were worth it
My only teeny tiny thing was that I also got annoyed with her friend. I get why she was loyal to Amyrssa but also... let a girl die at some point and get back to Ky. And I wish we would have had a little more resolution with the FMC's parents, but I get that those things aren't always resolved so I forgive that. And I still really really liked this one
5 stars because if you read it in one sitting, it's either amazing or terrible, and we know which one I choose.
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝑵𝒆𝒓𝒅𝑭𝒂𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝒆𝒕𝒈𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏 ✮⋆˙
Things I loved:
🥀Like I said above, the world was unique. It didn't feel like standard Medieval fantasy, and while we didn't get too in depth with the magic or anything (def more romance focused), I understood it just fine and liked it.
🥀I LOVEDDDDDD Ky. What a refreshing change from Shadow Daddies. He was fun, he was flirty, he knew exactly how to charm away my distrust. Like I love a man who is on his knees, and he was definitely on them for her.
🥀She was lowkey selfless but also a bitch and I really resonated with that
🥀Ky deserves another bullet just thinking about him
🥀The spice!!! Tension was built up properly so while the spice scenes were nothing crazy, they were worth it
My only teeny tiny thing was that I also got annoyed with her friend. I get why she was loyal to Amyrssa but also... let a girl die at some point and get back to Ky. And I wish we would have had a little more resolution with the FMC's parents, but I get that those things aren't always resolved so I forgive that. And I still really really liked this one
5 stars because if you read it in one sitting, it's either amazing or terrible, and we know which one I choose.
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓, 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝑵𝒆𝒓𝒅𝑭𝒂𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝒆𝒕𝒈𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏 ✮⋆˙
January 16, 2026
Let me preface by saying I was in a reading slump while reading this book. I liked the beginning, was lost in the middle (not because I didn't understand, but it just wasn't grabbing my attention), and enjoyed it toward the end.
The nightmares and how they correlated with her friend Amyrssa hooked me, and I wished it had explored that more. I wanted to get to know more about Anakisr and the other side characters. I liked how Harlowe didn't quickly fall for Kyven. Yes, he was charming, but she was trying hard to resist that charm. Her main focus was always on Amryssa. She was loyal to a fault, which was understandable because Amryssa was there when Harlowe was at her lowest. I enjoyed seeing their friendship and how much they cared for each other.
I had mixed feelings about the romance. I couldn't take him seriously because he was always flirting and bantering with Harlowe. I wanted a little more tension and a deeper connection. Funny enough, I really liked their bantering and romance after their consummation. Harlowe realizing that she doesn't have to push those who care away and to choose herself is what made the relationship work for me, and I started to believe in it more. But that happens more toward the end. I wanted it to happen sooner so I could've enjoyed the romance better.
The story was intriguing, the characters were likable (except Amryssa's grumpy father), and I grew to like the romance. Overall, I would recommend it.
I'm only giving it a 3 because of how long it took me to finish it, but it's really a 3.5⭐️.
Thank you Nerd Fam and Shaylin Gandhi for the review copy.
The nightmares and how they correlated with her friend Amyrssa hooked me, and I wished it had explored that more. I wanted to get to know more about Anakisr and the other side characters. I liked how Harlowe didn't quickly fall for Kyven. Yes, he was charming, but she was trying hard to resist that charm. Her main focus was always on Amryssa. She was loyal to a fault, which was understandable because Amryssa was there when Harlowe was at her lowest. I enjoyed seeing their friendship and how much they cared for each other.
I had mixed feelings about the romance. I couldn't take him seriously because he was always flirting and bantering with Harlowe. I wanted a little more tension and a deeper connection. Funny enough, I really liked their bantering and romance after their consummation. Harlowe realizing that she doesn't have to push those who care away and to choose herself is what made the relationship work for me, and I started to believe in it more. But that happens more toward the end. I wanted it to happen sooner so I could've enjoyed the romance better.
The story was intriguing, the characters were likable (except Amryssa's grumpy father), and I grew to like the romance. Overall, I would recommend it.
I'm only giving it a 3 because of how long it took me to finish it, but it's really a 3.5⭐️.
Thank you Nerd Fam and Shaylin Gandhi for the review copy.
December 1, 2025
Thank you The Nerd Fam for this ARC, I am leaving my honest review in exchange! 3.5 stars, rounded to 4!
So, I love me a good enemies-to-lovers arc. I was excited to pick this up when I read the blurb plus the cover is gorgeous, which is a huge thing for me.
This is my first meeting with Shaylin Gandhi and it's been an interesting ride. Finishing this book, I have some mixed opinions, but they are leaning toward positive.
I will start with the writing style. The use of dramatic and short sentences is really not my thing. There were multiple one-word sentences that did nothing for the suspense, but made me cringe and gave a clumpy feel to the text. I feel like more editing could've served this story well.
Also, when the world is Victorian-inspired I want the characters to feel authentic in their speech and reactions, which doesn't bode with some jokes or reactions put down. They felt very modern and casual. The swearing burnt the 'ingredients' put down, which made them not very tasty.
The premise of the plot is fantastic. The beginning felt like a horror story, not a romantasy, but I wished more of that remained, because about 30% in, I think that element got lost. The MMC was part of the mystery, but even before the review, I was sure he isn't what he was supposed to be. Now, the concept of Nightmares was very fun. Truly a piece of gothic in there, but I wished the rest of the vibes in the book matched it.
The FMC... well, I have issues with her. While she is a compelling protagonist, I felt like something was missing. Her motivations were a bit clouded for me, I understand that loyalty drives her, but I didn't feel it justified. Her relationship with Amryssa at first was less platonic in the beginning to me — also a puzzling thing. In the end, I liked the sacrifice made and the roles being reversed. Bit further in the story, as the romance developed, I felt like she lost her edge, which was probably intended, but by the end she felt like all the other heroines who'd been 'tamed' by their love interest.
I imagined the arranged part of the marriage going differently, but there were many unique takes on that sort of relationship. I congratulate the author on her creativity.
The MMC was simple, but fun. I enjoyed him, I like my men simping! I won't say more, to not spoil it.
The spice leve is 2/5. Though, there was some fun tension.
For me, this was a light-hearted read. If you like stabby heroines and simping men AND arranged marriages, this might be the book for you!
So, I love me a good enemies-to-lovers arc. I was excited to pick this up when I read the blurb plus the cover is gorgeous, which is a huge thing for me.
This is my first meeting with Shaylin Gandhi and it's been an interesting ride. Finishing this book, I have some mixed opinions, but they are leaning toward positive.
I will start with the writing style. The use of dramatic and short sentences is really not my thing. There were multiple one-word sentences that did nothing for the suspense, but made me cringe and gave a clumpy feel to the text. I feel like more editing could've served this story well.
Also, when the world is Victorian-inspired I want the characters to feel authentic in their speech and reactions, which doesn't bode with some jokes or reactions put down. They felt very modern and casual. The swearing burnt the 'ingredients' put down, which made them not very tasty.
The premise of the plot is fantastic. The beginning felt like a horror story, not a romantasy, but I wished more of that remained, because about 30% in, I think that element got lost. The MMC was part of the mystery, but even before the review, I was sure he isn't what he was supposed to be. Now, the concept of Nightmares was very fun. Truly a piece of gothic in there, but I wished the rest of the vibes in the book matched it.
The FMC... well, I have issues with her. While she is a compelling protagonist, I felt like something was missing. Her motivations were a bit clouded for me, I understand that loyalty drives her, but I didn't feel it justified. Her relationship with Amryssa at first was less platonic in the beginning to me — also a puzzling thing. In the end, I liked the sacrifice made and the roles being reversed. Bit further in the story, as the romance developed, I felt like she lost her edge, which was probably intended, but by the end she felt like all the other heroines who'd been 'tamed' by their love interest.
I imagined the arranged part of the marriage going differently, but there were many unique takes on that sort of relationship. I congratulate the author on her creativity.
The MMC was simple, but fun. I enjoyed him, I like my men simping! I won't say more, to not spoil it.
The spice leve is 2/5. Though, there was some fun tension.
For me, this was a light-hearted read. If you like stabby heroines and simping men AND arranged marriages, this might be the book for you!
November 9, 2025
☆ℕ𝕖𝕣𝕕 𝔽𝕒𝕞 𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨☆
4.5⭐
The tag line of "a gothic romantasy standalone" really drew me into wanting to read The Nightmare Bride, and I loved every minute of it. Shaylin does an amazing job of immersing you into the story and has such a beautifully descriptive way of writing.
I adored Harlowe's devotion and loyalty to Amryssa, their friendship bond is so strong and the fact that she would do anything in her power to help her - even if it is to her detriment - was so heartwarming and special.
I fell in love with Ky instantly! His cocky, confident personality won me over from the start. He doesn't fall into the stereotypical MMC in romantasy stories, he feels refreshing in his devotion to Harlowe without coming across as overbearing. I'm adding him to my book boyfriend list 🤭🥰
4.5⭐
The tag line of "a gothic romantasy standalone" really drew me into wanting to read The Nightmare Bride, and I loved every minute of it. Shaylin does an amazing job of immersing you into the story and has such a beautifully descriptive way of writing.
I adored Harlowe's devotion and loyalty to Amryssa, their friendship bond is so strong and the fact that she would do anything in her power to help her - even if it is to her detriment - was so heartwarming and special.
I fell in love with Ky instantly! His cocky, confident personality won me over from the start. He doesn't fall into the stereotypical MMC in romantasy stories, he feels refreshing in his devotion to Harlowe without coming across as overbearing. I'm adding him to my book boyfriend list 🤭🥰
November 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Thank you to the Nerd Fam for the ARC!
"He's planning their wedding, but she's planning his funeral."
Prince Kyven is sent to Oceansgate, where nightmares come to life, to marry Amryssa. Harlowe has heard terrible things about Kyven, and vows to marry him instead to protect her best friend.
I enjoyed the banter and the friendship in this book. The world was unique, and I really enjoyed the overall plot. I wish some parts had moved a little faster.
Tropes:
banter and yearning
gothic vibes
sentient dagger
unique world
"He's planning their wedding, but she's planning his funeral."
Prince Kyven is sent to Oceansgate, where nightmares come to life, to marry Amryssa. Harlowe has heard terrible things about Kyven, and vows to marry him instead to protect her best friend.
I enjoyed the banter and the friendship in this book. The world was unique, and I really enjoyed the overall plot. I wish some parts had moved a little faster.
Tropes:
banter and yearning
gothic vibes
sentient dagger
unique world
December 4, 2025
Thank you to Nerdfam for this ARC, I just wish I was able to enjoy it more.
It kind of felt like the author was going for something along the lines of Anathema and/or One Dark Window but it didn’t quite work. The language seemed too modern for the setting which took me out of it a bit, and Harlowe’s obsession with keeping after her grown ass friend was infuriating. The book as a whole read as very juvenile to me.
It kind of felt like the author was going for something along the lines of Anathema and/or One Dark Window but it didn’t quite work. The language seemed too modern for the setting which took me out of it a bit, and Harlowe’s obsession with keeping after her grown ass friend was infuriating. The book as a whole read as very juvenile to me.
Read
November 12, 2025dnf :(
I got this as an arc from Nerd Fam, but unfortunately have to dnf after reading over 50% of it.
I don’t know if it is just the wrong time, but I didn’t find myself invested in the plot. I didn’t feel the chemistry of our characters and life is too short to not love what you’re reading. So maybe I’ll pick it up again at a later time!
I got this as an arc from Nerd Fam, but unfortunately have to dnf after reading over 50% of it.
I don’t know if it is just the wrong time, but I didn’t find myself invested in the plot. I didn’t feel the chemistry of our characters and life is too short to not love what you’re reading. So maybe I’ll pick it up again at a later time!
December 13, 2025
3.5⭐️
this was so unexpectedly good! the characters were super developed and the plot was well thought out.
harlowe and kai are such a black cat-golden retriever vibe and it was done very well. i saw the twist very far off (even though i also thought that maybe )
also lunkkkk. what a sweetheart! him and the chef's relationship was adorable and although we didn't see much of him, his character was so well done- amryssa's comrade, kai's brother figure.
the main problem with this book was that it is a standalone. this author had a great story with an incredible outline which could have been a duology. the conflict was solved in around 20 pages :/
but the vibes were there! my first gothic book, and it was great!
post-read
YESSSS
"you're worth dreaming about. you're the only one in this godforsaken place that is"
this was so unexpectedly good! the characters were super developed and the plot was well thought out.
harlowe and kai are such a black cat-golden retriever vibe and it was done very well. i saw the twist very far off (even though i also thought that maybe )
also lunkkkk. what a sweetheart! him and the chef's relationship was adorable and although we didn't see much of him, his character was so well done- amryssa's comrade, kai's brother figure.
the main problem with this book was that it is a standalone. this author had a great story with an incredible outline which could have been a duology. the conflict was solved in around 20 pages :/
but the vibes were there! my first gothic book, and it was great!
post-read
YESSSS
January 4, 2026
Unique storyline- the world building & banter between the MMC & FMC really drew me in.
4 star because plot was a bit uneven- wrapped up too quickly in the end, some characters felt a bit flat & some language felt out of place for the time period.
Definitely a fun, interesting, slow-burn romantasy.
4 star because plot was a bit uneven- wrapped up too quickly in the end, some characters felt a bit flat & some language felt out of place for the time period.
Definitely a fun, interesting, slow-burn romantasy.
September 11, 2025
Good read!
I happily stumbled upon this book being recommended on TikTok! I was sooo happy that I did! A cute book with some romance, adventures, and a few secrets and fights along the way
I happily stumbled upon this book being recommended on TikTok! I was sooo happy that I did! A cute book with some romance, adventures, and a few secrets and fights along the way
January 17, 2026
I loved this. Slow burn, light fantasy. Made my heart sing and got me out of a reading slump.
January 9, 2026
Gothic crumbling castle, marriage of convenience, mystery and curses what’s not to enjoy. Throw in a feisty FMC and a slow burn romance and it’s an enjoyable read.
September 10, 2025
Rating: 5+ stars / Spice: 2.5/5 peppers
Gods and Goddesses, a forsaken land, Nightmare storms that cause madness… This book was SO unique and immersive - I couldn't put it down! I adored our prickly, protective FMC and her cocky, carefree groom. Their banter was incredible and the slow burn was delicious! I was seriously invested in them both, as well as the side characters and their stories. At one point I was sure I had the mystery figured out, but I was wrong! Such an amazingly enchanting Fantasy Romance with gorgeous writing!
What to expect: - Marriage of Convenience - Hidden Identity - Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine - One Bed - "My Wife" - Hate to Love - Mystery and Secrets - Standalone Novel
Gods and Goddesses, a forsaken land, Nightmare storms that cause madness… This book was SO unique and immersive - I couldn't put it down! I adored our prickly, protective FMC and her cocky, carefree groom. Their banter was incredible and the slow burn was delicious! I was seriously invested in them both, as well as the side characters and their stories. At one point I was sure I had the mystery figured out, but I was wrong! Such an amazingly enchanting Fantasy Romance with gorgeous writing!
What to expect: - Marriage of Convenience - Hidden Identity - Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine - One Bed - "My Wife" - Hate to Love - Mystery and Secrets - Standalone Novel
February 13, 2026
Synopsis: Harlowe lives in a remote swampland manor haunted by deadly magical storms, but she can’t leave because she has to protect her fragile best friend, Amryssa. When Amryssa’s father forces her to marry a cruel prince, Harlow secretly takes her place - but the prince isn’t at all what she expected.
Thoughts: I always love Shaylin’s beautiful writing style, and this immersive and unique romantasy is no exception. The world building and strange magic storms intrigued me from the beginning, and I love how complete the world feels, especially for a standalone fantasy. The romance is so fun, with excellent banter and chemistry. Harlowe is the kind of main character I love to root for. This one kept me invested from start to finish, and I’m honestly a little sad that it’s a standalone because I would love to read more of this world!
Read this if you like:
🌩️ arranged marriage
🌩️ mistaken identity
🌩️ enemies to lovers
🌩️ slow burn
🌩️ unique world building
Thoughts: I always love Shaylin’s beautiful writing style, and this immersive and unique romantasy is no exception. The world building and strange magic storms intrigued me from the beginning, and I love how complete the world feels, especially for a standalone fantasy. The romance is so fun, with excellent banter and chemistry. Harlowe is the kind of main character I love to root for. This one kept me invested from start to finish, and I’m honestly a little sad that it’s a standalone because I would love to read more of this world!
Read this if you like:
🌩️ arranged marriage
🌩️ mistaken identity
🌩️ enemies to lovers
🌩️ slow burn
🌩️ unique world building
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