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Miserable Marionette: A Dark Romantic Tragedy
“Some obsessions don’t fade; they fester.”
There are few things more painful than losing a friend when you're a child. Losing someone who you created make-believe worlds with and told all your secrets to. For me, that person was the little boy who lived in his family’s funeral home across the street. He was strange and always serious, but he was my friend, and I was his. Inseparable, until we weren’t.
When he left, I thought I would never recover, but I did. I grew up, and life moved on. Only now that little boy is back, and he's not so little anymore. This man has secrets, secrets I no longer know. That endearing awkwardness was traded for intensity, and I think something might be wrong with him. I'm also not sure that I care, I never had before. Far away under the bright lights of the city he lived in, bodies of women have been popping up, women fashioned into living dolls, puppets. But here he is, reopening wounds that never fully healed. That man isn’t the little boy from my memories. He’s changed, everything has changed, and I think I’m next.
Miserable Marionette is NOT a safe romance. It is a true crime, pitch black romantic tragedy. it won’t have a happily ever after where the characters ride off into the sunset and everything is right with the world but if you trust me, I promise to give you the ending that was right for them. Even if it hurts, and it will hurt. The content behind these pages is not suitable for everyone. It’s not a book for those who are faint of heart or have a strong moral code. Or any moral code at all, really. A love like this is about inevitability, obsession, and the tragedy of childhood promise that couldn’t survive its own darkness. For a detailed list of debauchery, check out the content warnings tab on my author website www.authorcalliemoss.com
There are few things more painful than losing a friend when you're a child. Losing someone who you created make-believe worlds with and told all your secrets to. For me, that person was the little boy who lived in his family’s funeral home across the street. He was strange and always serious, but he was my friend, and I was his. Inseparable, until we weren’t.
When he left, I thought I would never recover, but I did. I grew up, and life moved on. Only now that little boy is back, and he's not so little anymore. This man has secrets, secrets I no longer know. That endearing awkwardness was traded for intensity, and I think something might be wrong with him. I'm also not sure that I care, I never had before. Far away under the bright lights of the city he lived in, bodies of women have been popping up, women fashioned into living dolls, puppets. But here he is, reopening wounds that never fully healed. That man isn’t the little boy from my memories. He’s changed, everything has changed, and I think I’m next.
Miserable Marionette is NOT a safe romance. It is a true crime, pitch black romantic tragedy. it won’t have a happily ever after where the characters ride off into the sunset and everything is right with the world but if you trust me, I promise to give you the ending that was right for them. Even if it hurts, and it will hurt. The content behind these pages is not suitable for everyone. It’s not a book for those who are faint of heart or have a strong moral code. Or any moral code at all, really. A love like this is about inevitability, obsession, and the tragedy of childhood promise that couldn’t survive its own darkness. For a detailed list of debauchery, check out the content warnings tab on my author website www.authorcalliemoss.com
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2026
About the author
Callie Moss
16 books423 followersCallie Moss is an indie author. She published her first book Surviving December in January 2022. Callie has overcome a lot after being diagnosed with Graves Disease at twenty-three. She's a chronic daydreamer, lover of dark gritty romance that makes you clutch your pearls and forsake well rounded men. She's a married, stay-at-home mom, surrogate, and cosplayer that likes to spend her time reading, writing, and listening to true crime podcasts. She grew up in the Midwest, where she always felt like an outcast. Never quite fitting in with the kids at school, she was bullied for her macabre tastes. Relentless imagination and her obsession with a particular sparkling vampire. She found solace in escapism and learned the profound effect a good story can have on someone. She wants to give her readers the same experience, creating worlds you can lose yourself in, if only for a moment.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 3, 2026
This is a book that will stick with me for a long, long time. It’s definitely in my top reads for the year! I’ve read three books of Callie’s so far, and she is so freaking talented. There’s such an emotional pull with her books, and Miserable Marionette is my favorite so far! I’m glad she’s writing dark fiction again.
I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I also preordered the book! This is my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read, Callie!
September 2, 2026
A bubbly girl meets a strange boy, her new neighbor, living in a funeral home. How peculiar. They go into the woods to play. She falls, violently hits her head. She bleeds quite a lot, calls to him. But the boy has a rock in his hands. He stares and stares at the oblivious, crying little girl. He makes a life changing decision that day: he lets go of the rock. From now on, he makes the girl the center of his world. He will orbit around her, only him can take good care of his puppet. So they will be the best of friends, regardless of everything. The obsession will grow, he will have to leave, breaking her heart, to finally come back years later and let that obsession run free.
Miserable Marionnette was intense. It was tremendously filled with creeping tension. It was also beautiful and moving, although it feels uncomfortable to say. But it was beautifully tragic, I cannot say otherwise.
Something was wrong with both Audrey and Gideon. In Audrey’s case, it was more childish than chilling, contrary to Gideon, but it was nonetheless uneasy, creepy to witness in both instances. It was always them and no one else, since they were kids up until their adulthood. Them in their own bubble.
Their dynamic was toxic, oddly sweet. Through present time and flashbacks, we got glimpses of their obsession with each other, disturbing as it is, from the start. How it evolved. What made them tick in each other, what the other could provide, etc. How strong their feelings were, even after all this time. Like I said, it was pretty intense and I loved it. It’s not a fun read per se (although it’s subjective), it was raw, unfiltered and authentic to the characters. Disturbing sometimes, because what do you mean Gideon did that?
I’ve loved every book I’ve read from Callie Moss so far, Miserable Marionnette is definitely one of them. If you like to hurt, you should check it out.
Thank you so much to Callie for the arc.
4.5 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔯𝔰
𝔖𝔭𝔦𝔠𝔶
Keywords: true crime, pitch black, no HEA, dolls, funeral home, obsession, puppet.
Miserable Marionnette was intense. It was tremendously filled with creeping tension. It was also beautiful and moving, although it feels uncomfortable to say. But it was beautifully tragic, I cannot say otherwise.
Something was wrong with both Audrey and Gideon. In Audrey’s case, it was more childish than chilling, contrary to Gideon, but it was nonetheless uneasy, creepy to witness in both instances. It was always them and no one else, since they were kids up until their adulthood. Them in their own bubble.
Their dynamic was toxic, oddly sweet. Through present time and flashbacks, we got glimpses of their obsession with each other, disturbing as it is, from the start. How it evolved. What made them tick in each other, what the other could provide, etc. How strong their feelings were, even after all this time. Like I said, it was pretty intense and I loved it. It’s not a fun read per se (although it’s subjective), it was raw, unfiltered and authentic to the characters. Disturbing sometimes, because what do you mean Gideon did that?
I’ve loved every book I’ve read from Callie Moss so far, Miserable Marionnette is definitely one of them. If you like to hurt, you should check it out.
Thank you so much to Callie for the arc.
4.5 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔯𝔰
𝔖𝔭𝔦𝔠𝔶
Keywords: true crime, pitch black, no HEA, dolls, funeral home, obsession, puppet.
September 3, 2026
Miserable Marionette is an absolute powerhouse of a book, but go in prepared: it is intense, deeply uncomfortable, and wildly addictive.
The story centers on Gideon and Audrey, beginning in 1975 when Audrey’s family moves across the street from the Bell Funeral Home in the quiet town of Swindon, Michigan. As two lonely, sibling-less kids—he the dark outcast, she the bright, doll-loving sunshine—they form an instant, unbreakable connection. The narrative shifts effortlessly between past and present, weaving a dual POV that tracks how their childhood bond warps into an all-consuming, terrifyingly codependent bubble.
What makes this book work so well is how unfiltered and raw the character writing is. There is something deeply wrong with both leads. Audrey’s issues lean more childish and desperate, driven by an unquenchable need for love and validation that leaves her blind to the red flags surrounding her. Gideon, on the other hand, is a genuinely chilling portrait of a child sociopath. He is scary, disturbing, and completely ruthless in his devotion. Their dynamic is undeniably toxic, yet somehow manages to be sweet and moving in the most twisted way possible. You’ll catch yourself feeling for Gideon and trying to justify his actions, even when you're actively horrified by what he's doing.
The author doesn't pull any punches, dropping jaw-dropping moments right from the start. You might enter the story knowing there isn't a Happily Ever After, thinking you've figured out where the tragedy lands, but the ending completely shatters those expectations. It is brutal, haunting, and guaranteed to leave you a sobbing mess.
It’s definitely not a light or cozy read, and readers should check the trigger warnings beforehand because the emotional weight is heavy. But if you’re looking for a beautifully tragic, haunting romance that stays with you long after the final page, this is an absolute must-read.
The story centers on Gideon and Audrey, beginning in 1975 when Audrey’s family moves across the street from the Bell Funeral Home in the quiet town of Swindon, Michigan. As two lonely, sibling-less kids—he the dark outcast, she the bright, doll-loving sunshine—they form an instant, unbreakable connection. The narrative shifts effortlessly between past and present, weaving a dual POV that tracks how their childhood bond warps into an all-consuming, terrifyingly codependent bubble.
What makes this book work so well is how unfiltered and raw the character writing is. There is something deeply wrong with both leads. Audrey’s issues lean more childish and desperate, driven by an unquenchable need for love and validation that leaves her blind to the red flags surrounding her. Gideon, on the other hand, is a genuinely chilling portrait of a child sociopath. He is scary, disturbing, and completely ruthless in his devotion. Their dynamic is undeniably toxic, yet somehow manages to be sweet and moving in the most twisted way possible. You’ll catch yourself feeling for Gideon and trying to justify his actions, even when you're actively horrified by what he's doing.
The author doesn't pull any punches, dropping jaw-dropping moments right from the start. You might enter the story knowing there isn't a Happily Ever After, thinking you've figured out where the tragedy lands, but the ending completely shatters those expectations. It is brutal, haunting, and guaranteed to leave you a sobbing mess.
It’s definitely not a light or cozy read, and readers should check the trigger warnings beforehand because the emotional weight is heavy. But if you’re looking for a beautifully tragic, haunting romance that stays with you long after the final page, this is an absolute must-read.
August 24, 2026
🖤ARC REVIEW🖤Miserable Marionette by Callie Moss
⭐️𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5 / 5
🔥𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 2.5 / 5
💧𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬: 4 / 5
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 9/3/26
“𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
I’m not ok! This book was a literal rollercoaster of emotions! Callie Moss thank you so much for letting me ARC read this! This story & your writing blew me away!
This is the story of Gideon & Audrey. In 1975, Audrey’s dad gets a new job in Swindon, Michigan, the family moves across the street from Bell Funeral Home / Bell Residence. The only funeral home in town. Dark & quiet little Gideon meets sunshine & dolls little Audrey. Neither has siblings & with Gideon being an outcast, they instantly form a bond. That bond becomes unbreakable & no one will come between them. Literally. Their story is told in present day & flashback dual POVs & it just flowed so perfectly.
The author hits you immediately with holy shit moments. She wrote a child sociopath with such realism that I truly was creeped out. Gideon is extremely disturbing & scary af with his behavior. And Audrey was so young, & in need of love & attention that she was so blinded by so many things, even as she got older. And before you ask, yes I was feeling sorry for him & justifying a lot of his actions…we listen & we don’t judge around here. LOL!
I knew this didn’t have an HEA and even before I read the epilogue I had convinced myself I knew how it was going to end but I was so wrong and I was a blubbering baby. It was heartbreaking, brutal, frustrating, haunting yet so raw & beautiful. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! But please CHECK TW!! It’s very heavy!
This is one of my top reads of the year! I will never forget Gideon and Audrey 🥺💔
⭐️𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5 / 5
🔥𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 2.5 / 5
💧𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬: 4 / 5
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 9/3/26
“𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
I’m not ok! This book was a literal rollercoaster of emotions! Callie Moss thank you so much for letting me ARC read this! This story & your writing blew me away!
This is the story of Gideon & Audrey. In 1975, Audrey’s dad gets a new job in Swindon, Michigan, the family moves across the street from Bell Funeral Home / Bell Residence. The only funeral home in town. Dark & quiet little Gideon meets sunshine & dolls little Audrey. Neither has siblings & with Gideon being an outcast, they instantly form a bond. That bond becomes unbreakable & no one will come between them. Literally. Their story is told in present day & flashback dual POVs & it just flowed so perfectly.
The author hits you immediately with holy shit moments. She wrote a child sociopath with such realism that I truly was creeped out. Gideon is extremely disturbing & scary af with his behavior. And Audrey was so young, & in need of love & attention that she was so blinded by so many things, even as she got older. And before you ask, yes I was feeling sorry for him & justifying a lot of his actions…we listen & we don’t judge around here. LOL!
I knew this didn’t have an HEA and even before I read the epilogue I had convinced myself I knew how it was going to end but I was so wrong and I was a blubbering baby. It was heartbreaking, brutal, frustrating, haunting yet so raw & beautiful. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! But please CHECK TW!! It’s very heavy!
This is one of my top reads of the year! I will never forget Gideon and Audrey 🥺💔
September 3, 2026
Callie Ma’am you always seem to do if,
Just when I think you can’t shock me anymore, you tend to accept the challenge.
GET THE BOOK!
Check your TRIGGER WARNINGS! Callie’s aim did not miss.
This book was so good that I am rereading it.
This book is perfect for the season, you need a good thrill, then look no further.
A perfect storm of emotions, I can’t explain the roller coaster I went on, this book is not for the faint of heart, it will leave you flabbergasted and in need of a box of tissues.
We have Audrey a girl who just loves drawing and her doll, who moves due to her fathers promotion, upon moving to her new town she meets a boy Gideon, Gideon and Audrey become obsessed with one another, through early child hood to teen years they are inseparable, Audrey falls and gets injured and from that day Gideon continues to care for Audrey and her doll so much so he even makes her doll new dresses.
This book is dark, it’s suspenseful, it’s tragic and beautiful, this read has left me lost for words in ways I didn’t know I could be. There is an Erie feel that comes out through Callie’s writing during this whole book and you tend to forget the time and get lost in the pages.
This book has it all! I want to continue to talk about this book to everyone, I need more people to take this ride with me, because wtf! “Say it puppet” is probably one of my favorite lines in this book.
I WILL BE GETTING A PAPERBACK copy I need this physically in my collection!
Callie if I could give you a standing ovation this is it! I may argue this is your best work yet! I can’t wait to see what that beautiful mind spits out next!
Just when I think you can’t shock me anymore, you tend to accept the challenge.
GET THE BOOK!
Check your TRIGGER WARNINGS! Callie’s aim did not miss.
This book was so good that I am rereading it.
This book is perfect for the season, you need a good thrill, then look no further.
A perfect storm of emotions, I can’t explain the roller coaster I went on, this book is not for the faint of heart, it will leave you flabbergasted and in need of a box of tissues.
We have Audrey a girl who just loves drawing and her doll, who moves due to her fathers promotion, upon moving to her new town she meets a boy Gideon, Gideon and Audrey become obsessed with one another, through early child hood to teen years they are inseparable, Audrey falls and gets injured and from that day Gideon continues to care for Audrey and her doll so much so he even makes her doll new dresses.
This book is dark, it’s suspenseful, it’s tragic and beautiful, this read has left me lost for words in ways I didn’t know I could be. There is an Erie feel that comes out through Callie’s writing during this whole book and you tend to forget the time and get lost in the pages.
This book has it all! I want to continue to talk about this book to everyone, I need more people to take this ride with me, because wtf! “Say it puppet” is probably one of my favorite lines in this book.
I WILL BE GETTING A PAPERBACK copy I need this physically in my collection!
Callie if I could give you a standing ovation this is it! I may argue this is your best work yet! I can’t wait to see what that beautiful mind spits out next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I need a paperback copy of this book IMMEDIATELY. I am as obsessed with this book as Gideon is with Audrey. Jk, that’s taking it a little far. But really, this was fantastic. I made myself stop reading several times because I wasn’t ready for it to be over. It ripped me wide open from start to finish.
Gideon Bell (whose dad’s name is Jason iykyk) has so many things wrong with him but somehow I managed to love each and every one. His clear devotion was evident early on and never once wavered. I loved the way he loved Audrey. Nineteen (!!!) years of devotion. I loved their childhood memories, and their mutual desperation for each other from the moment they met.
Audrey was also broken in her own ways, and struggled a lot in the story. There were a lot of tragic moments with our girl, but she was strong and just kept swimming.
The plot was glorious. I was fckn HOOKED. I loved how certain details were revealed as you got further into the story. The setting was really cool, a little dreary and definitely spooky. This book was dark and twisted and sometimes gross, but so fun. It had some wretchedly heartbreaking moments, and some that filled in the cracks of those breaks. Gideon has me in a chokehold. He is everything and I won’t be forgetting him anytime soon. The ending was exactly what I had hoped for and I couldn’t be happier with it.
Thank you so very much to the author for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC, I am beyond grateful. This was such a special book.
Gideon Bell (whose dad’s name is Jason iykyk) has so many things wrong with him but somehow I managed to love each and every one. His clear devotion was evident early on and never once wavered. I loved the way he loved Audrey. Nineteen (!!!) years of devotion. I loved their childhood memories, and their mutual desperation for each other from the moment they met.
Audrey was also broken in her own ways, and struggled a lot in the story. There were a lot of tragic moments with our girl, but she was strong and just kept swimming.
The plot was glorious. I was fckn HOOKED. I loved how certain details were revealed as you got further into the story. The setting was really cool, a little dreary and definitely spooky. This book was dark and twisted and sometimes gross, but so fun. It had some wretchedly heartbreaking moments, and some that filled in the cracks of those breaks. Gideon has me in a chokehold. He is everything and I won’t be forgetting him anytime soon. The ending was exactly what I had hoped for and I couldn’t be happier with it.
Thank you so very much to the author for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC, I am beyond grateful. This was such a special book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Without a doubt this is her best work to date! The emotional connection I felt for these characters was tragically and beautifully done. Did I cry, yes, did I love it, also yes!
If you love mentally damaged main characters with a more than tragic love story, I beg of you to read this work! I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about this book and what these characters experienced alone and together. It might be the most beautifully done book I have even read getting inside of the characters thoughts and feelings while feeling so much for them and feeling so fucking bad for them too throughout this story.
And that last fucking chapter just gutted me, like I understood the story and was prepared, but reading that just pushed it over the edge for me as I sat there sobbing. So thank you for this amazing story and allowing me to read the ARC. I deeply and truly loved reading The Miserable Marionette.
PLEASE check the trigger warnings for this one and if you are ok to read this, then please do yourself a favor and read it.
If you love mentally damaged main characters with a more than tragic love story, I beg of you to read this work! I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about this book and what these characters experienced alone and together. It might be the most beautifully done book I have even read getting inside of the characters thoughts and feelings while feeling so much for them and feeling so fucking bad for them too throughout this story.
And that last fucking chapter just gutted me, like I understood the story and was prepared, but reading that just pushed it over the edge for me as I sat there sobbing. So thank you for this amazing story and allowing me to read the ARC. I deeply and truly loved reading The Miserable Marionette.
PLEASE check the trigger warnings for this one and if you are ok to read this, then please do yourself a favor and read it.
September 2, 2026
"Say it, puppet. Tell me you're my miserable little marionette."
i am gutted. gutted over that ending. gutted over the tragic, painfully devastating story of these two. i don't know what to do after finishing this one other than to just stare at my wall and let this one emotionally destroy me in peace...
i knew going into this one that i wasn't going to survive it - i just didn't know it would wreck me THIS badly. it's intense, nerve wracking, and twistingly dark. i truly don't even know where to find the words for this one.
if there's one quote that really struck me, it has to be:
"And I'll never stop wondering how something as beautiful as love could become so terrifying." because THAT was Gideon and Audrey's love. terrifying, obsessive, all-consuming. written SO beautifully while being so incredibly brutal to watch unfold... i don't think i will ever get this story unburnt from my mind. it's going to stay there, seared into my brain forever!!
i am gutted. gutted over that ending. gutted over the tragic, painfully devastating story of these two. i don't know what to do after finishing this one other than to just stare at my wall and let this one emotionally destroy me in peace...
i knew going into this one that i wasn't going to survive it - i just didn't know it would wreck me THIS badly. it's intense, nerve wracking, and twistingly dark. i truly don't even know where to find the words for this one.
if there's one quote that really struck me, it has to be:
"And I'll never stop wondering how something as beautiful as love could become so terrifying." because THAT was Gideon and Audrey's love. terrifying, obsessive, all-consuming. written SO beautifully while being so incredibly brutal to watch unfold... i don't think i will ever get this story unburnt from my mind. it's going to stay there, seared into my brain forever!!
September 3, 2026
Well I really was just taken on the ride of my life and completely blown away in every way possible. Please be aware of your triggers prior to going in . Please know that this is an extremely dark / pitch black story . That being said, if you’re feeling brave !! I can guarantee that this is one of the absolute best books you’ll read this year . Gideon and Audrey captivated me from the very beginning. Not only were they so multi dimensional/ layered, but they were filled with so many complexities. They were mentally damaged and I was so there for it all . There are some stories that just have the ability to grab onto you and make you feel so many unexpected emotions, that even when it’s finished you still find yourself thinking about . This is most definitely one of those and so much more. Friends to lovers , obsession, serial killers , tragedy, love , emotional turmoil, dark and twisted , nerve wracking, unforgettable and unputdownable. I cannot recommend this book highly enough
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly think this is some of Callie’s best work.
Going into the story knowing there was no HEA, yet still somehow expecting it? That's such a testament to how incredibly talented she is as a writer.
Gideon gave such .... insanely creepy vibes from the jump. The way she wrote a CHILD sociopath in such detail? Brilliant.
An Audrey? Sweet, broken angel baby, who just fell in love with the boy who was so far gone for everyone but her. I know us dark romance girlies love the touch her and die, or the he hates everyone but her trope, but this one was just so much MORE.
When she said this was a panic attack from cover to cover she was not joking. This was so intense, and I loved every minute.
Absolutely LOVED this Callie. It was brutal, and raw, and oddly healing that there wasn't a HEA.
Can't wait to see more of her work!
Going into the story knowing there was no HEA, yet still somehow expecting it? That's such a testament to how incredibly talented she is as a writer.
Gideon gave such .... insanely creepy vibes from the jump. The way she wrote a CHILD sociopath in such detail? Brilliant.
An Audrey? Sweet, broken angel baby, who just fell in love with the boy who was so far gone for everyone but her. I know us dark romance girlies love the touch her and die, or the he hates everyone but her trope, but this one was just so much MORE.
When she said this was a panic attack from cover to cover she was not joking. This was so intense, and I loved every minute.
Absolutely LOVED this Callie. It was brutal, and raw, and oddly healing that there wasn't a HEA.
Can't wait to see more of her work!
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝕴𝖋 𝖌𝖍𝖔𝖘𝖙𝖘 𝖆𝖗𝖊 𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖑, 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖓 𝖒𝖞 𝖔𝖇𝖘𝖊𝖘𝖘𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝖜𝖎𝖙𝖍 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖌𝖎𝖗𝖑 𝖎𝖘 𝖆 𝖕𝖔𝖑𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖌𝖊𝖎𝖘𝖙.
This book was INSANE!
The obsession. This book was not overly dark on page (that’s my opinion I still suggest checking triggers). But instead it was dark in the sense of the way the MMCs obsession to OWN the FMC was. She was his from the minute he saw her. And will be forever.
The concept was so fun. While reading this I realized I read a lot of books that take place in mortuary’s or have morticians in them…but every single one is different. The story is NEVER the same!
And this one did not disappoint.
Watching the MMC and his descent and his unraveling was intense. And the FMC was everything she should be…his “puppet”.
Callie did it again and honestly she writes OBSESSION so well I always find myself fully immersed and lost in the story.
5 AMAZING STARS
This book was INSANE!
The obsession. This book was not overly dark on page (that’s my opinion I still suggest checking triggers). But instead it was dark in the sense of the way the MMCs obsession to OWN the FMC was. She was his from the minute he saw her. And will be forever.
The concept was so fun. While reading this I realized I read a lot of books that take place in mortuary’s or have morticians in them…but every single one is different. The story is NEVER the same!
And this one did not disappoint.
Watching the MMC and his descent and his unraveling was intense. And the FMC was everything she should be…his “puppet”.
Callie did it again and honestly she writes OBSESSION so well I always find myself fully immersed and lost in the story.
5 AMAZING STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMG!! This was an AMAZING story! It's Gideon & Audrey's story & it was intense in the most beautiful & tragic way. They met each other when they were young & practically grew up together; they were always best friends. He has issues & he really didn't have friends except her; his obsession with her only grew & became everything he lived for. Unfortunately, he moves away for a long time which devastates them both. When he comes back everything has changed & his issues have only gotten worse. She goes through some trauma as well & tries to stay away from him; they have unresolved feelings between them. Their love was toxic & obsession has a whole new meaning. This doesn't have a traditional HEA, but it was perfect for them & couldn't have ended any other way. Please keep in mind this is a DARK book. Highly recommend this book & author!
September 3, 2026
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~Miserable Marionette~Callie Moss~
"Whatever is right in Audrey always finds a way to fix whatever is wrong in me."
♡If your man isn't as obsessed with you as Gideon Bell is with Audrey Fisher then I'm sorry to break it to you but he isn't the one.... Take that statement lightly because my therapist and I have a lot of unpacking to do regarding morals that I clearly don't possess and I think she mentioned something about being color blind? Since when did she become an eye doctor....
Any who this book was phenomenal & of course it doesn't have an HEA so be mindful going in...unless you're like me when you see no HEA you jump head first then obviously we should be besties!
I'm off to contemplate my life choices while being jealous that others get to read this book for the first time.♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~Miserable Marionette~Callie Moss~
"Whatever is right in Audrey always finds a way to fix whatever is wrong in me."
♡If your man isn't as obsessed with you as Gideon Bell is with Audrey Fisher then I'm sorry to break it to you but he isn't the one.... Take that statement lightly because my therapist and I have a lot of unpacking to do regarding morals that I clearly don't possess and I think she mentioned something about being color blind? Since when did she become an eye doctor....
Any who this book was phenomenal & of course it doesn't have an HEA so be mindful going in...unless you're like me when you see no HEA you jump head first then obviously we should be besties!
I'm off to contemplate my life choices while being jealous that others get to read this book for the first time.♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this heartbreaker in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. I absolutely loved it to the point that it pained me to finish it. The emotions I felt while reading this were so raw and real, it truly activated my anxiety. Callie Moss is an amazing writer who pours her heart out onto the pages. I fell in love with these two characters and I'm still thinking about them six days later. I also cried again this morning thinking about them...I cried multiple times while reading this. These two will definitely stay with me for a very long time, and I think this story is her best one yet.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I loved this book, because of and in spite of the darkness.
I really believed in the folie à deux between the main characters, how it would be possible for someone so sweet to love someone so cruel, and to fight it at times as well.
Not exactly a beach read, though I did read this at the beach, and was gripped from the beginning!
{I read the book as an ARC and my opinions in this review are genuine}
Serial K!ller
Small Town
Power Imbalance
Obsession
Psychopath MMC
Dubc0n
Alcoholism
Parental Abuse / Neglect
I really believed in the folie à deux between the main characters, how it would be possible for someone so sweet to love someone so cruel, and to fight it at times as well.
Not exactly a beach read, though I did read this at the beach, and was gripped from the beginning!
{I read the book as an ARC and my opinions in this review are genuine}
Serial K!ller
Small Town
Power Imbalance
Obsession
Psychopath MMC
Dubc0n
Alcoholism
Parental Abuse / Neglect
August 23, 2026
@darkauthorcal firstly Thankyou for the ARC and letting me experience this story, Gideon and Audrey’s story is on that is hauntingly beautiful and heartbreaking, the contrasting POVS on how each character sees the world made my heart hurt for Gideon and empathise with Audrey throughout, this story will haunt me forever, some parts became difficult to read and I felt like putting it in the freezer and letting them have their happy ending but would it really be happy? I would recommend fully, just take your time and prepare for heart break ☠️🪦⚰️
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off,
I first got introduced to Callie moss from her Germaphobe book with Cohen and Reagan and instantly fell in love with her writing and stories. When I found out a new book was coming out based on childhood friends, I knew this was a book I HAD TO READ, and I’m so glad I got chosen for the ARC review!
This book had me all in my feels and in the next biting my nails. So well written, so well thought of. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, and how odd Gideon Bell is. Truly a great book from start to finish. No one does a GOOD horror romance like Callie does!
I first got introduced to Callie moss from her Germaphobe book with Cohen and Reagan and instantly fell in love with her writing and stories. When I found out a new book was coming out based on childhood friends, I knew this was a book I HAD TO READ, and I’m so glad I got chosen for the ARC review!
This book had me all in my feels and in the next biting my nails. So well written, so well thought of. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, and how odd Gideon Bell is. Truly a great book from start to finish. No one does a GOOD horror romance like Callie does!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm a person that normally stays away from books without hea but this author is pretty much an auto read for me. She has never did me wrong when it comes to books and she didn't disappoint this time either. The ending is sad but it does fit the characters very well. I couldn't help but fall in love with these characters It is dark but the characters love for each other is actually very sweet and it starts at a young age. This is absolutely one of my favorite reads of this year so far.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew ahead of time this would not have a HEA so I prepared for that. this was an intense and beautiful. This book had me in my feels and it was so well written too. even if this had no HEA and broke my heart this was still a beautiful love story. I loved the premise of this book so I had to pick it up and this did not disappoint. this was a page turner for sure. I can not wait to read more by Callie Moss.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love isn’t always kind.
Audrey is so pure and sweet while Gideon is cold to everyone but softens for her.
I don’t know what else to say other than this is 100% worth the read.
There isn’t a HEA but, the ending was perfect for them. And yet, I’m still left thinking ‘What if?’
I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Audrey is so pure and sweet while Gideon is cold to everyone but softens for her.
I don’t know what else to say other than this is 100% worth the read.
There isn’t a HEA but, the ending was perfect for them. And yet, I’m still left thinking ‘What if?’
I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Man… Gideon and Audrey story broken my heart in too many tiny pieces! Their story was one heartbreaking read. Their obsession their love it was so dark but in their world it was the light that they needed more than anything else. I just wish they had a different ending but I think that in a twisted way it was the perfect ending for them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Going into this book I knew there was no HEA but it did not keep me from being so engrossed in the story. This was one of those dark romances that kept you on the edge of your seat and you just had to know what was going to happen and why. The premise of this book yet very dark, was so different in the way it was told it made for a heck of a gut punch and page turner.
Review of advance copy
Gideon and Audrey were childhood friends after moving near each other as kids, theirbshared lonelyness made them bond but this story isnt a sweet romance, its a heart breaker from the start, knowing theres no HEA yet still hoping for something more, the dark themes, twists and desires hold you through past and present povs.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is dark, disturbing, and probably will be hard to swallow for a lot of people - and I absolutely loved it.
The content is dark, yes, but it's not in your face. There isn't a lot of guts and gore, or thrilling chases and scary moments, it's a silent type of horror that starts from the very beginning and continues throughout. It creates the kind of dread that builds and builds and sticks with you long after you've closed those pages. It's a love story yes, and an epic one at that, but it's the kind of love that eats away at a person - and eats away at the reader. Miserable Marionette is not for the faint of heart, but if you want a devastatingly beautiful story that will make you question the characters sanity and your own, go ahead and give this a read.
The content is dark, yes, but it's not in your face. There isn't a lot of guts and gore, or thrilling chases and scary moments, it's a silent type of horror that starts from the very beginning and continues throughout. It creates the kind of dread that builds and builds and sticks with you long after you've closed those pages. It's a love story yes, and an epic one at that, but it's the kind of love that eats away at a person - and eats away at the reader. Miserable Marionette is not for the faint of heart, but if you want a devastatingly beautiful story that will make you question the characters sanity and your own, go ahead and give this a read.
August 24, 2026
This is without a doubt a beautiful love story showcasing how far, dark, twisted, and obsessed one’s love can go.
There is no HEA but I don’t think there would have been a better ending to wrap up this story.
There is no HEA but I don’t think there would have been a better ending to wrap up this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
THIS IS NOT A BOOK; THIS IS A PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS TEST!
and I fucking ate it up!!!
and I fucking ate it up!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC received for review
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