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Cruel Honey
She wanted a rich man. She got a killer deal.
Cassidy Finch thought she was signing up for easy money: a week on a billionaire’s private island, forgoing her life as a starving med student while she pretends to be Juniper, the girlfriend of the dangerously charming Denning Rothschild. Sex, cocktails, couture—her tuition and rent paid with one vacation.
But paradise comes at a price.
The guests are too beautiful, the rituals too strange, and the hosts are supernaturally wealthy. When the games turn violent, Cassidy must shed her old life and embrace the one role that might keep her alive:
She came for luxury. She found carnage. And she’ll have to fight her way off the island, blade in hand, if she wants to survive.
Cassidy Finch thought she was signing up for easy money: a week on a billionaire’s private island, forgoing her life as a starving med student while she pretends to be Juniper, the girlfriend of the dangerously charming Denning Rothschild. Sex, cocktails, couture—her tuition and rent paid with one vacation.
But paradise comes at a price.
The guests are too beautiful, the rituals too strange, and the hosts are supernaturally wealthy. When the games turn violent, Cassidy must shed her old life and embrace the one role that might keep her alive:
She came for luxury. She found carnage. And she’ll have to fight her way off the island, blade in hand, if she wants to survive.
- GenresHorror
246 pages, Paperback
Published September 28, 2025
44 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Piper C.J.
21 books2,797 followersFantasy author with an M.A. in Folklore, who loves to take pictures, eat french fries, and live my life as an all-around creative forest nymph! I'm so excited to bring you with me on my journey as I step out of our everyday lives and into the new fantasy world within The Night and Its Moon fantasy series!
I wrote these books for an audience of one, and that audience was me. I wanted to see bi representation, love, mental health struggles, religious trauma, and overcoming the of obstacles that I needed to be modeled in my own life. At the end of the day I'm so proud of myself for creating the series that I'd always hoped I could read, and I hope someone is able to connect with them in a way that I have.
I wrote these books for an audience of one, and that audience was me. I wanted to see bi representation, love, mental health struggles, religious trauma, and overcoming the of obstacles that I needed to be modeled in my own life. At the end of the day I'm so proud of myself for creating the series that I'd always hoped I could read, and I hope someone is able to connect with them in a way that I have.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 21, 2025
I have yet to be disappointed by a Piper CJ book, and Cruel Honey was no exception! First of all, the name? *chef kiss* From the first page to the last, I was hooked by the inexplicable way CJ manages to make you feel, taste, and smell everything like you’re the MC. While this is CJ’s first slasher, the incorporation of her folklore knowledge gave this novella a unique twist that felt both fresh and very Piper CJ. I read the entire thing in a day and, as with all of her novellas, I would love a sequel, but the ending felt just right. The pace was perfect, the spice was hot hot hot, and the tension and horror aspects were glorious. Though this is an island slasher, I will definitely be rereading this every spooky season to get in the horror mood. 10/10 recommend!
December 31, 2025
Piper CJ has out done herself in her first foray into slashers. Cruel Honey was a fantastic blend of comedy, horror, spice, and mythology. Cruel Honey features Cassidy, a broke med student, who puts out a sugar baby ad to cover her bills. She meets Denning, who wants to pay for the girlfriend experience on a private island near Indonesia. But Cassidy’s time on the tropical paradise surrounded by the ultra rich turns stabby. Piper does an amazing job of slowing increasing Cassidy’s paranoia and ramping up the tension. As always, CJ seemlessly mixes tension with humor and spice to keep readers on their toes. As a biology nerd, I enjoyed the anatomically correct stabbing. If you’re a fan of Promising Young Woman or Ready or Not, you’ll love this book.
Want to read
January 16, 2026I'll read this eventually, but with the deluxe edition coming out and Piper including a four-page rant about how she's so anti-AI, I must comment.
I think these two images speak for themselves. (Piper is a pathological liar.)
In addition to this, there's her novella This Book Sucks, which has a cover that was traced from AI art. Piper was called out for that, but doubled down that it was neither traced nor AI and still has it as her cover.
--
YOOO YOOOO IMMA WRITE A FULL REVIEW SOON, BUT I COULDN'T HOLD BACK. PIPER REALLY FUCKING NAMED HER VILLAIN, WHO PARTICIPATES IN FUCKING BLOOD LIBEL, NATHANIEL ROTHSCHILD. IS SHE LITERALLY THAT FUCKING STUPID????!?!?!?!?!
I'll come back later to review the actual novella. :)
I think these two images speak for themselves. (Piper is a pathological liar.)
In addition to this, there's her novella This Book Sucks, which has a cover that was traced from AI art. Piper was called out for that, but doubled down that it was neither traced nor AI and still has it as her cover.
--
YOOO YOOOO IMMA WRITE A FULL REVIEW SOON, BUT I COULDN'T HOLD BACK. PIPER REALLY FUCKING NAMED HER VILLAIN, WHO PARTICIPATES IN FUCKING BLOOD LIBEL, NATHANIEL ROTHSCHILD. IS SHE LITERALLY THAT FUCKING STUPID????!?!?!?!?!
I'll come back later to review the actual novella. :)
September 24, 2025
I was riveted to this book. I didn't want to stop reading. This whole little world Piper has built is intoxicating and I could feel the tension in every page, the humidity, the sights and smells. she did such an excellent job of making this story alive. It was a wild ride and I loved it. I usually don't like scary thrillers or final girl stuff because I'm a scaredy cat but this was so good and my heart rate was so fast at the end. A deeply deeply satisfying read.
September 20, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
Piper CJs first foray into Horror and she killed it (literally 😏)
Carrie X Midsummer X Ready or Not
Cruel Honey gives us a FMC who is struggling to keep the roof over her head while going through a breakup and Med School in Denver in the middle of winter. When she stumbles across a sugar baby website and gets an offer to play fake gf with rich people for a week on an island, who wouldn't go? Equal parts funny, gorey, and sexy, this slasher is perfect for the spooky season. Juniper/Cassidy has had it with the filthy rich and their scheming and turns from submissive/nice girl to final girl. For fans of Piper CJ, you'll find her signature story telling and even fantasy you've come to love.
So who wants to come on an island getaway? Scream responsibly babes
Piper CJs first foray into Horror and she killed it (literally 😏)
Carrie X Midsummer X Ready or Not
Cruel Honey gives us a FMC who is struggling to keep the roof over her head while going through a breakup and Med School in Denver in the middle of winter. When she stumbles across a sugar baby website and gets an offer to play fake gf with rich people for a week on an island, who wouldn't go? Equal parts funny, gorey, and sexy, this slasher is perfect for the spooky season. Juniper/Cassidy has had it with the filthy rich and their scheming and turns from submissive/nice girl to final girl. For fans of Piper CJ, you'll find her signature story telling and even fantasy you've come to love.
So who wants to come on an island getaway? Scream responsibly babes
September 23, 2025
Is "f*ck the rich" meant to be literal or metaphorical? This book says "why not both 😏"
Luxury island vibes with something more sinister brewing just out of sight, the writing and characters had me hooked from the start. Sexy, funny, and fully delivering on the blood and guts with an ending that left me wanting more in the best way, I loved it from start to finish!
Luxury island vibes with something more sinister brewing just out of sight, the writing and characters had me hooked from the start. Sexy, funny, and fully delivering on the blood and guts with an ending that left me wanting more in the best way, I loved it from start to finish!
January 11, 2026
Life isn't going the best for Cassidy Finch. Shes short on love, money, and opportunity. Her world is currently revolving around struggling to pay rent and keep it all together after her long-term girlfriend left her for someone else. Shes in medschool and has big aspirations but is struggling to get there.
But then one night she takes a chance and puts herself out there... as a sugar baby. She figures easy money and a life of luxury all for an act she will put on with a billionaire. Its only a week, how bad could it be? But paradise comes at a price.
I haven't read any slashers before this one and Piper has set the bar HIGH. The blending of Hindu mythology was truly the icing on top. This is the perfect late summer early spooky season read.
But then one night she takes a chance and puts herself out there... as a sugar baby. She figures easy money and a life of luxury all for an act she will put on with a billionaire. Its only a week, how bad could it be? But paradise comes at a price.
I haven't read any slashers before this one and Piper has set the bar HIGH. The blending of Hindu mythology was truly the icing on top. This is the perfect late summer early spooky season read.
September 21, 2025
From sugar baby to survivalist, Cassidy had no idea her “once in a lifetime” vacation, may end up costing her, her life.
A broke med student, Cassidy is short on rent (again) and having to evaluate moving back in with her parents. The ones that didn’t think she should go to med school in the first place. You can imagine how that might play out. As with many of us desperate for cash, she turns to the Internet. But instead of selling feet pics, Cassidy jumps straight to sugar baby sites.
Her friend Jenna isn’t judging but is absolutely concerned when Cassidy’s first date experience turns into a once in a lifetime island vacation offer. The only ask is for Cassidy to piss off the ex wife of a devastatingly handsome sugar daddy. Upon hearing the island has less than consistent cell service, Jenna loses her shit and beseeches the gods that her bestie won’t get murdered.
Little does she know how involved the gods actually are.
—-
A tropical slasher combined with mythology?! I’m in love. The layering of the title is one of my favorites pieces of this story. Rather than a typical quick hit novella, I found the characters to have depths and layering that I was intrigued by before the true chaos erupted.
I was privileged to receive an ARC of this book and have been honest in my review of it. I did not receive anything in exchange for my review.
A broke med student, Cassidy is short on rent (again) and having to evaluate moving back in with her parents. The ones that didn’t think she should go to med school in the first place. You can imagine how that might play out. As with many of us desperate for cash, she turns to the Internet. But instead of selling feet pics, Cassidy jumps straight to sugar baby sites.
Her friend Jenna isn’t judging but is absolutely concerned when Cassidy’s first date experience turns into a once in a lifetime island vacation offer. The only ask is for Cassidy to piss off the ex wife of a devastatingly handsome sugar daddy. Upon hearing the island has less than consistent cell service, Jenna loses her shit and beseeches the gods that her bestie won’t get murdered.
Little does she know how involved the gods actually are.
—-
A tropical slasher combined with mythology?! I’m in love. The layering of the title is one of my favorites pieces of this story. Rather than a typical quick hit novella, I found the characters to have depths and layering that I was intrigued by before the true chaos erupted.
I was privileged to receive an ARC of this book and have been honest in my review of it. I did not receive anything in exchange for my review.
September 24, 2025
If you’re looking for something spicy and stabby, LOOK NO FURTHER!
Piper absolutely nailed it with this island horror novella! It had everything I love about a good slasher- ominous energy mixed with humor, adrenaline and a KILLER final girl. Piper managed to take the familiar structure of slasher horror and make it her own with a folklore twist. Did I mention the spice!? Do yourself a favor and start your spooky season off right with a little island vacation.
Piper absolutely nailed it with this island horror novella! It had everything I love about a good slasher- ominous energy mixed with humor, adrenaline and a KILLER final girl. Piper managed to take the familiar structure of slasher horror and make it her own with a folklore twist. Did I mention the spice!? Do yourself a favor and start your spooky season off right with a little island vacation.
September 23, 2025
I received the ARC copy to post an honest review.
I absolutely loved this book! This is definitely my favorite of her 3 novellas.
Cassidy is a medical student with nothing to lose. Her whole life is falling apart, bills are due, rent is overdue, her girlfriend left her and her job has no shifts for her. In a desperate move she makes a profile on a sugar baby website and to her surprise she gets a response. In comes this gorgeous man who wants her to pose as his girlfriend for a week away at an island with his ex-wife and hot ultra rich friends. She has to learn fast, sink or swim in this whirlwind of power, lust and pampering, something terrible lurks watching, waiting and the island will have whatever it wants!
This is a fantastic blend of modern times mixed with the elder Gods.
It's the perfect way to say goodbye to summer while celebrating the upcoming spooky season with this island slasher!
I absolutely loved this book! This is definitely my favorite of her 3 novellas.
Cassidy is a medical student with nothing to lose. Her whole life is falling apart, bills are due, rent is overdue, her girlfriend left her and her job has no shifts for her. In a desperate move she makes a profile on a sugar baby website and to her surprise she gets a response. In comes this gorgeous man who wants her to pose as his girlfriend for a week away at an island with his ex-wife and hot ultra rich friends. She has to learn fast, sink or swim in this whirlwind of power, lust and pampering, something terrible lurks watching, waiting and the island will have whatever it wants!
This is a fantastic blend of modern times mixed with the elder Gods.
It's the perfect way to say goodbye to summer while celebrating the upcoming spooky season with this island slasher!
September 21, 2025
Cassidy was barely keeping her head above water in Piper CJ's first slasher. Presented with a chance to make life-changing funds and have the vacation of a lifetime, she transitions herself into Juniper and takes off with a man that is almost too good to be true. little does she know, keeping her head above water may be the least of her problems!
What happens with this mysterious man in paradise?
Does Cassidy/Juniper make the money she needs to survive?
How much blood will be spilled?
Grab your copy ASAP to find out for yourself!!
What happens with this mysterious man in paradise?
Does Cassidy/Juniper make the money she needs to survive?
How much blood will be spilled?
Grab your copy ASAP to find out for yourself!!
September 24, 2025
Cassidy is a down on her luck med student who's decided it's time to try being a sugar baby to help get out of debt. Enter Denning who is looking for someone to play the part of his girlfriend on an annual tropical getaway with his friends. Cassidy accepts the part and soon finds the tropical extravagance more lush than she expected. When things take a dark turn will she be able to sacrifice her opportunity for a better life?
If you like the following in your reads, then you're sure to like this story!
- Rich people being messy
- Strange voices saying a name no one should know
- Bad people getting their comeuppance
- Questioning sanity, aka only the FMC can see a person
- Goddesses who like to cause chaos
- A bit of blood and gore
The voice of this novella is so uniquely Piper, just in a different genre than normal. The mix of mythology, a tension filled paradise, a bit of sex, and the fight to stay alive, made this such an entertaining read. It's fast-paced and full of chaotic characters, in the best way.
Thanks to the author for an ARC to review.
If you like the following in your reads, then you're sure to like this story!
- Rich people being messy
- Strange voices saying a name no one should know
- Bad people getting their comeuppance
- Questioning sanity, aka only the FMC can see a person
- Goddesses who like to cause chaos
- A bit of blood and gore
The voice of this novella is so uniquely Piper, just in a different genre than normal. The mix of mythology, a tension filled paradise, a bit of sex, and the fight to stay alive, made this such an entertaining read. It's fast-paced and full of chaotic characters, in the best way.
Thanks to the author for an ARC to review.
September 22, 2025
I didn't know I needed a folklore-based slasher this spooky season, but it hit the spot I didn't even know I needed. This is a quick read—I finished it in one sitting—and it is the perfect Halloween story.
Piper's writing is just some of my favorite. Everything she writes, and this is no exception.
I loved that this story took on a life of its own in my mind—I was so invested I forgot I didn't need to actually gasp every time a new twist came to light.
This book gave White Lotus vibes in the best way. Everything was a bit too carefree, a bit too perfect, a bit too smiley, you know?
The cracks show more notably when the world is so bright.
I love Cassidy Finch. I want more of Cassidy Finch. Cassidy Finch just might be one of my all time favorite Piper C.J. characters.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶🌶.5/5
Piper's writing is just some of my favorite. Everything she writes, and this is no exception.
I loved that this story took on a life of its own in my mind—I was so invested I forgot I didn't need to actually gasp every time a new twist came to light.
This book gave White Lotus vibes in the best way. Everything was a bit too carefree, a bit too perfect, a bit too smiley, you know?
The cracks show more notably when the world is so bright.
I love Cassidy Finch. I want more of Cassidy Finch. Cassidy Finch just might be one of my all time favorite Piper C.J. characters.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶🌶.5/5
September 23, 2025
A slasher for the ages!
Piper CJ never fails to write a story that grips you from start to finish and this is no exception. Quite literally read this in one sitting and stayed up far into the night to see how my girl Cassidy handled BUSINESS on this island. I could feel the sand between my toes, the champagne bubbles in my head, and the RAGE in my veins. Definitely not one to miss especially as we head into the spooky season! A perfect gift for yourself and any other slasher fans in your life!
Piper CJ never fails to write a story that grips you from start to finish and this is no exception. Quite literally read this in one sitting and stayed up far into the night to see how my girl Cassidy handled BUSINESS on this island. I could feel the sand between my toes, the champagne bubbles in my head, and the RAGE in my veins. Definitely not one to miss especially as we head into the spooky season! A perfect gift for yourself and any other slasher fans in your life!
September 23, 2025
I LOVED EVERY SECOND! Cruel Honey follows Cassidy, a broke medical student who stumbles across a sugar baby website & decides to try her luck with Denning, who needs a fake girlfriend for a tropical island getaway with his ridiculously wealthy (& attractive) friends. Everything seems a little too perfect, & Piper does an INCREDIBLE job of using the beauty of the setting to build the tension. This novella is gory, sexy, funny (I laughed out loud SEVERAL times), & the perfect read for the start of spooky season!
Welcome to paradise. Scream responsibly. 😘
Welcome to paradise. Scream responsibly. 😘
January 1, 2026
⭐️ - This was my first Piper CJ book and it will also be my last. I wouldn’t normally be drawn to the genres she writes, but I do enjoy the occasional horror moment and thought a k*ll the rich slasher sounded on brand for me after it was recommended a friend.
Unfortunately, I got bored before we even got to the first slash. I took a long break and came back determined to finish the book in the final few days of the year. I ended up skimming the final 30% because I couldn’t stand hearing about the never-ending monsoon backdrop anymore, and also felt like the whole goddesses thing turned from mysterious and intriguing to ridiculous.
Why were these goddesses talking with the same dumb valley girl tone as the rich brats they were tired of? I also felt uncomfortable with the use of real goddesses from a real religion. I can only imagine the multiple ways that this was immensely appropriative and problematic (I just can’t even be bothered to invest that much thought to deconstruct that at this point).
I was ready to maybe give this book 2⭐️ for the portions I did enjoy, but it is overflowing with embarrassing typos - multiple incorrect to/too/twos (are you kidding me?!), ‘delt’ when she meant ‘dealt,’ ‘vice’ where it should have been ‘vise’ more than once… I could go on… I feel like these glaring errors also got worse and more frequent as the book progressed.
All in all, a concept for a book that I loved in theory, but was disappointed in how it was brought to life on the page.
Unfortunately, I got bored before we even got to the first slash. I took a long break and came back determined to finish the book in the final few days of the year. I ended up skimming the final 30% because I couldn’t stand hearing about the never-ending monsoon backdrop anymore, and also felt like the whole goddesses thing turned from mysterious and intriguing to ridiculous.
Why were these goddesses talking with the same dumb valley girl tone as the rich brats they were tired of? I also felt uncomfortable with the use of real goddesses from a real religion. I can only imagine the multiple ways that this was immensely appropriative and problematic (I just can’t even be bothered to invest that much thought to deconstruct that at this point).
I was ready to maybe give this book 2⭐️ for the portions I did enjoy, but it is overflowing with embarrassing typos - multiple incorrect to/too/twos (are you kidding me?!), ‘delt’ when she meant ‘dealt,’ ‘vice’ where it should have been ‘vise’ more than once… I could go on… I feel like these glaring errors also got worse and more frequent as the book progressed.
All in all, a concept for a book that I loved in theory, but was disappointed in how it was brought to life on the page.
October 12, 2025
Couldn’t have been more impressed with this. I’ve yet to read something from Piper CJ that I don’t love wholeheartedly and give 5 stars to emphatically. The crash of desperation, wishing there was more, anticipating another book in a series, etc. is a true hallmark of my experience with her work. This one would make an excellent film, as well.
All in all, LOVE this bitch. Thanks for the representation and chaos embracing our community and those we support. Also, can February hurry up already? So looking forward to The Serpent and the Siren!
<3 Always craving more
All in all, LOVE this bitch. Thanks for the representation and chaos embracing our community and those we support. Also, can February hurry up already? So looking forward to The Serpent and the Siren!
<3 Always craving more
September 30, 2025
Okay, wow. Cruel Honey is one of those books that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go — equal parts dark, seductive, and absolutely unhinged in the best way.
The spice level? Off the charts. Exhibition, group scenes, and plenty of “oh my god, did that just happen?!” moments that had me fanning myself and rereading lines just to make sure I didn’t imagine them. It’s not just steamy — it’s transgressive, the kind of book that pushes boundaries and dares you to sit in the discomfort while still being hot as hell.
But what made this really hit for me was the twist into the supernatural. The island isn’t just a playground — it’s hungry, demanding blood, and watching Juniper rise from sugar baby to survivor is both chilling and oddly empowering. The spoiled rich kids get exactly what they deserve, while Juniper becomes the goddesses’ chosen. Talk about a glow-up.
If you want something sweet and safe, this is not that book. But if you’re looking for spice turned all the way up, with a razor-sharp edge of horror and myth, Cruel Honey is absolutely worth the ride.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 for me — docking half a star only because my jaw is still on the floor).
The spice level? Off the charts. Exhibition, group scenes, and plenty of “oh my god, did that just happen?!” moments that had me fanning myself and rereading lines just to make sure I didn’t imagine them. It’s not just steamy — it’s transgressive, the kind of book that pushes boundaries and dares you to sit in the discomfort while still being hot as hell.
But what made this really hit for me was the twist into the supernatural. The island isn’t just a playground — it’s hungry, demanding blood, and watching Juniper rise from sugar baby to survivor is both chilling and oddly empowering. The spoiled rich kids get exactly what they deserve, while Juniper becomes the goddesses’ chosen. Talk about a glow-up.
If you want something sweet and safe, this is not that book. But if you’re looking for spice turned all the way up, with a razor-sharp edge of horror and myth, Cruel Honey is absolutely worth the ride.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 for me — docking half a star only because my jaw is still on the floor).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2025
Piper cj does it again!
I loved the story, the characters, and the plot. It's a classic tale of a woman surviving a harrowing week of debauchery. I loved every minute!
I loved the story, the characters, and the plot. It's a classic tale of a woman surviving a harrowing week of debauchery. I loved every minute!
October 1, 2025
How is it possible that this is Piper CJ’s first ever slasher and it checks EVERY box?! Incredible setting, killer final girl (get it?), sexy, stabby, mysterious, with mythology, and a gorgeous cast of characters. The dread had me in a chokehold from the very beginning and would NOT let me put it down. This book has stunning imagery and did I mention how sexy it is?! I hope we get to see more horror from PCJ because after this, I need so much more.
October 1, 2025
This horror novella is one of the best short reads I've come across in a long time. It's fast paced and easy to read in just a few hours. From "sugar baby to final girl" has to be the newest slasher slogan! The location setting and goddess aspects are such a good touch and really brings everything together. Just in time for spooky season this is a must read!! 🏝🔪🩸
September 25, 2025
What do you get when you combine slasher horror with comedy, some spice and Pipers signature folklore? Pipers CJs best book yet!
What does one do when they are in med school, recently dumped and on the verge of eviction? You post an add on discrete arrangements, and when a hot guy answers and offers to pay you enough to cover your tuition and rent for the next couple months in exchange for you spending a week on his private island pretending to be his girlfriend? You obviously say yes because what could possibly go wrong?
What does one do when they are in med school, recently dumped and on the verge of eviction? You post an add on discrete arrangements, and when a hot guy answers and offers to pay you enough to cover your tuition and rent for the next couple months in exchange for you spending a week on his private island pretending to be his girlfriend? You obviously say yes because what could possibly go wrong?
September 28, 2025
“… had tumbled fingers-first into her coworker,”
The sentence where I knew this would be a 5 star read.
You can’t get better than this sexy and stabby, final girl novella. Piper always hits the spot with every genre she writes.
Cruel Honey is no exception. It has the more than vivid descriptions, steamy encounters and mythology we expect from her.
If you want to be invested thrilled and slightly horny, here we have the perfect, end of summer thrill.
The sentence where I knew this would be a 5 star read.
You can’t get better than this sexy and stabby, final girl novella. Piper always hits the spot with every genre she writes.
Cruel Honey is no exception. It has the more than vivid descriptions, steamy encounters and mythology we expect from her.
If you want to be invested thrilled and slightly horny, here we have the perfect, end of summer thrill.
October 10, 2025
This was an easy/quick enough read and some of it was alright, but I feel like I didn't get exactly what I was promised.
Nothing much happens for far too many pages and while I understand what the author was going for, it fell kind of flat for me.
'The rituals too strange', is something the blurb tells us, but the rituals seem to just be... orgies? They just all... fuck each other? I guess? Play truth or dare? Kind of boring. I guess it's 'explained' near the end - they needed her happy or something - but... eh. Other than a few moments where she encounters weirdness in the trees or runs into strangers or one time she stumbles upon workers doing something unnerving... it just wasn't entirely what I thought I was getting from the promo!
Also I don't really mind mistakes in books at all, even traditionally published books have plenty, but I did notice a LOT in this, like so many that I think it could have used another pass or two before publishing. Also, her editor surely should have caught 'dawned' instead of 'donned'? Perhaps a new editor is needed as I've seen the same reviews about typos and mistakes in her other indie novellas.
Cassidy isn't technically a final girl, either, so I didn't *exactly* get what I was promised.
We also didn't get a satisfying explanation for Denning at the end? He'd apparently tried to save her the whole time but he dropped the 'act' and called her a c*nt at the end so she could stab him or whatever? Why? What was he pretending for? What were his motivations? He can't have developed feelings for her because, Christ, all he did was smirk at her half the time.
Nothing much happens for far too many pages and while I understand what the author was going for, it fell kind of flat for me.
'The rituals too strange', is something the blurb tells us, but the rituals seem to just be... orgies? They just all... fuck each other? I guess? Play truth or dare? Kind of boring. I guess it's 'explained' near the end - they needed her happy or something - but... eh. Other than a few moments where she encounters weirdness in the trees or runs into strangers or one time she stumbles upon workers doing something unnerving... it just wasn't entirely what I thought I was getting from the promo!
Also I don't really mind mistakes in books at all, even traditionally published books have plenty, but I did notice a LOT in this, like so many that I think it could have used another pass or two before publishing. Also, her editor surely should have caught 'dawned' instead of 'donned'? Perhaps a new editor is needed as I've seen the same reviews about typos and mistakes in her other indie novellas.
Cassidy isn't technically a final girl, either, so I didn't *exactly* get what I was promised.
We also didn't get a satisfying explanation for Denning at the end? He'd apparently tried to save her the whole time but he dropped the 'act' and called her a c*nt at the end so she could stab him or whatever? Why? What was he pretending for? What were his motivations? He can't have developed feelings for her because, Christ, all he did was smirk at her half the time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
Something wasn’t right
The beginning was boring. So much build up, only to have a very abrupt end to it all. I feel like the author was trying too hard with the tattoos. I understand the intent was to make them suspicious, but it just made Cassidy come across as paranoid with her hyper-fixation on them.
It was your typical American slasher, but the author made it a battle between a bunch of silver spooned adults, instead of a bunch of arrogant teenagers. The book could’ve been more fun if Cassidy had been a bit more likable, and the fight scenes a bit more realistic. Something about this book just didn’t land right, and I don’t have the mental capacity right now to figure out what.
The beginning was boring. So much build up, only to have a very abrupt end to it all. I feel like the author was trying too hard with the tattoos. I understand the intent was to make them suspicious, but it just made Cassidy come across as paranoid with her hyper-fixation on them.
It was your typical American slasher, but the author made it a battle between a bunch of silver spooned adults, instead of a bunch of arrogant teenagers. The book could’ve been more fun if Cassidy had been a bit more likable, and the fight scenes a bit more realistic. Something about this book just didn’t land right, and I don’t have the mental capacity right now to figure out what.
September 24, 2025
Spooky season is coming up, you say? I say it’s resort season. Also, my favorite time of year, Piper CJ novella season. This fast, fun, and freaky 5 star read will take you on a ride going from heartbreak and hopelessness, then a chance to maybe experience some of paradise and rub heartbreak in a certain someone’s face. Never was it expected that it would be so hot there.
Cassidy knows she needs money, and spending time with Denning, who is also sexy and wealthy, on a private tropical island seems like a win/win situation. I mean, could he be a serial unaliver? Ok, maybe. If not, though...what an experience this could be! Play a role, make exes jealous, and get some sun. How hard could it be? Well...at least her medical school training will pay off when things take a turn.
It is an absolutely bloody good read, even if things can get a little sour or catty at times. You know how the wealthy can be, and it does give an excellent argument for “eat the rich”. It will fly by, and goddess knows what a warrior you need to be to fight for your worth. Piper taking a stab at writing a slasher pays off, and a reminder to know when to start fighting for your life.
For fans of slasher horror, vacation escapes, dark romance, and survival thrillers, Cruel Honey is:
-Sugar baby to final girl
-Fans of “Revenge”, “American Mary”, “Death of Me”, “Influencer”, and “Promising Young Woman���
-stabstabstabstabstab
-Billionaire decadence gone rotten
-Mythology, ritual, and blood
-eat the rich
Thank you to Piper and Laura for trusting us to be a part of the Street Team and read the ARC. This review was optional, and my own words and opinions.
Cassidy knows she needs money, and spending time with Denning, who is also sexy and wealthy, on a private tropical island seems like a win/win situation. I mean, could he be a serial unaliver? Ok, maybe. If not, though...what an experience this could be! Play a role, make exes jealous, and get some sun. How hard could it be? Well...at least her medical school training will pay off when things take a turn.
It is an absolutely bloody good read, even if things can get a little sour or catty at times. You know how the wealthy can be, and it does give an excellent argument for “eat the rich”. It will fly by, and goddess knows what a warrior you need to be to fight for your worth. Piper taking a stab at writing a slasher pays off, and a reminder to know when to start fighting for your life.
For fans of slasher horror, vacation escapes, dark romance, and survival thrillers, Cruel Honey is:
-Sugar baby to final girl
-Fans of “Revenge”, “American Mary”, “Death of Me”, “Influencer”, and “Promising Young Woman���
-stabstabstabstabstab
-Billionaire decadence gone rotten
-Mythology, ritual, and blood
-eat the rich
Thank you to Piper and Laura for trusting us to be a part of the Street Team and read the ARC. This review was optional, and my own words and opinions.
September 24, 2025
The beginning sets the scene beautifully. Our main girl is broke, depressed, has very few supports, and is desperate for any way out of her financial and mental slump. If you’ve been there before, you will understand Cassidy / “Juniper” perfectly. The writing is VERY intentional. There is so much attention to detail in every single line. From the beginning, you can feel the suspense building. It filled me with so much anxiety, and the eeriness of the “beautiful but poison underneath” theme is executed very well. It is reminiscent of the feeling of looking at something horrifying but being unable to tear your eyes away from it. I couldn’t wait to figure out what happened next with every turn of the page. Sooo incredibly hot. Spicy scenes were written so perfectly you could drown in them. The mythology is bloody and beautiful and rich.
The horrors persist but so does cassidy/juniper. The way the second half of the novella rose like a crescendo, building in suspense and anticipation, then erupted was incredibly satiating. I was kicking my feet in delight while simultaneously being so anxious to find out what would happen next. Everything happened exactly as you would hope it would but never in the way I expected. I was kept on my toes until the very end.
The horrors persist but so does cassidy/juniper. The way the second half of the novella rose like a crescendo, building in suspense and anticipation, then erupted was incredibly satiating. I was kicking my feet in delight while simultaneously being so anxious to find out what would happen next. Everything happened exactly as you would hope it would but never in the way I expected. I was kept on my toes until the very end.
October 1, 2025
Slasher, but make it Piper.
If you're new to slashers, this is a great book to start with. If you're new to Piper, this is also a great book to start with.
We've got a broke student who just wants to pay rent and a group of wealthy people on a island in the sun. The island isn't just about glamour and poolside mai-tais, there is a darker secret...
If you're new to slashers, this is a great book to start with. If you're new to Piper, this is also a great book to start with.
We've got a broke student who just wants to pay rent and a group of wealthy people on a island in the sun. The island isn't just about glamour and poolside mai-tais, there is a darker secret...
October 7, 2025
Appropraitely-Hyped
Would I recommend - Maybe
Overall - 3.86⭐️
Character - 4⭐️
Setting - 4⭐️
Plot - 4⭐️
Themes - 3⭐️
Writing - 5⭐️
Emotions - 4⭐️
Enjoyment - 3⭐️
Delivered just as promised. Loved the folklore —way more depth than your typical slasher. All the 🌶️s.
Would I recommend - Maybe
Overall - 3.86⭐️
Character - 4⭐️
Setting - 4⭐️
Plot - 4⭐️
Themes - 3⭐️
Writing - 5⭐️
Emotions - 4⭐️
Enjoyment - 3⭐️
Delivered just as promised. Loved the folklore —way more depth than your typical slasher. All the 🌶️s.
October 23, 2025
This was such a fun slasher!!
The first half was building towards the slashing, starting out picturesque and how I think I'd feel if I got a look into the lifestyles of the rich and the famous. Slowly, and then more noticeably, the writing changes. The picture is being painted subtly differently, building until pieces start slotting into place and we start to see the real story behind the island and these people.
There's a little spice while things are still fun on the island, but the way Piper writes the slashing scenes is just excellent and descriptive but still fast paced, I'm almost watching a movie in my head as I read!
I've read a few books by Piper now, and I'm really loving her writing style! She paints a vivid scene, both visually and emotionally, but it never feels bogged down. Also the way she mixes in gods and belief systems, and how she writes peoples reactions to them, is always so interesting and I'm always in love with it!
Definitely read this!
The first half was building towards the slashing, starting out picturesque and how I think I'd feel if I got a look into the lifestyles of the rich and the famous. Slowly, and then more noticeably, the writing changes. The picture is being painted subtly differently, building until pieces start slotting into place and we start to see the real story behind the island and these people.
There's a little spice while things are still fun on the island, but the way Piper writes the slashing scenes is just excellent and descriptive but still fast paced, I'm almost watching a movie in my head as I read!
I've read a few books by Piper now, and I'm really loving her writing style! She paints a vivid scene, both visually and emotionally, but it never feels bogged down. Also the way she mixes in gods and belief systems, and how she writes peoples reactions to them, is always so interesting and I'm always in love with it!
Definitely read this!
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