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Touch Me Not: A Dystopian Dark Romance
Prepare to be offended. Please read TW's before proceeding.You can't break something you can't touch.
My name is Malaya. It means "freedom," like some cruel joke. I escaped one cage only to crawl into the jaws of another.
Alessandro didn’t save me. He took advantage of my desperation. He wrapped it in a mask of mercy, a marriage to his nephew. Papers signed in silence. A roof over my head. Outside, it looks like paradise, but to me, it’s hell.
Every word out of his lips is a lie wrapped in expensive gifts. His praise is poison. I was never family. I was a house fixture locked in his fortress.
I’m his delicate doll. Untouched. Unsullied. As if a single breath would ruin the fantasy he’s built in his head. He watches me like I’m already his. Every inch. His. An unwrapped possession.
He confesses his sins to me like I would absolve him of them. Before he bids me good night, he sheds his gloves like a ritual. With hands that have killed, they brush my skin, gentle and wrong. His lips find the back of my hands. Like a prayer, he begs for my obedience.
He tells me it’s to protect me. That I’m better this way, but I see the hunger in his eyes. The trepidation. He’s not afraid I’ll break. He’s afraid he will.
But Is this all I’ll measure up to? I won’t let the dust settle on this doll. He’s built his world out of rules and lies. Me?
I will set every one of them on fire.
My name is Malaya. It means "freedom," like some cruel joke. I escaped one cage only to crawl into the jaws of another.
Alessandro didn’t save me. He took advantage of my desperation. He wrapped it in a mask of mercy, a marriage to his nephew. Papers signed in silence. A roof over my head. Outside, it looks like paradise, but to me, it’s hell.
Every word out of his lips is a lie wrapped in expensive gifts. His praise is poison. I was never family. I was a house fixture locked in his fortress.
I’m his delicate doll. Untouched. Unsullied. As if a single breath would ruin the fantasy he’s built in his head. He watches me like I’m already his. Every inch. His. An unwrapped possession.
He confesses his sins to me like I would absolve him of them. Before he bids me good night, he sheds his gloves like a ritual. With hands that have killed, they brush my skin, gentle and wrong. His lips find the back of my hands. Like a prayer, he begs for my obedience.
He tells me it’s to protect me. That I’m better this way, but I see the hunger in his eyes. The trepidation. He’s not afraid I’ll break. He’s afraid he will.
But Is this all I’ll measure up to? I won’t let the dust settle on this doll. He’s built his world out of rules and lies. Me?
I will set every one of them on fire.
456 pages, Paperback
Published October 9, 2025
25 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Kate D. Pirate
16 books76 followers🇵🇭 A romantic with a twisted mind✍🏼 Accused Book-Pusher. 💟 Writing as K. Sparrow for dark sci-romantasy genre/Goldpunk. Grimm Darke in psych horror🏴☠️
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 6, 2025
Wowweee I love a good dark romance that blends with psychological horror. Because HORROR it is in the best way, unsettling & compelling at the same time.
I love the writing & this author doesn’t shy away from difficult dark themes. Trauma, power dynamics & of course obsession, all things that make for an incredibly morally complex love story. I FELT for Malaya and everything she’s going through IT’S ROUGH PEOPLE but I’m also in love with Allesandro & his dangerous desire, you just KNOW something is wrong with him 😵💫
Not for the faint of heart so check those triggers 💥
Thank you for letting me ARC read this beauty ❤️
I love the writing & this author doesn’t shy away from difficult dark themes. Trauma, power dynamics & of course obsession, all things that make for an incredibly morally complex love story. I FELT for Malaya and everything she’s going through IT’S ROUGH PEOPLE but I’m also in love with Allesandro & his dangerous desire, you just KNOW something is wrong with him 😵💫
Not for the faint of heart so check those triggers 💥
Thank you for letting me ARC read this beauty ❤️
September 1, 2025
ARC Review
What did I just read? Everything that happens in this book is so crazy. All the characters, including the author, need to see a therapist. Me too, of course.
I don't know what to say, but not much happens in this story until Malaya gets kidnapped and things really turned for the worst as if her previous situation is not already worse enough. Poor Malaya. Triggers warnings are already there for those who can't digest this kind of content.
This book is actually short and simple and the pacing is also very good. Only the first 10–15 chapters felt a bit draggy to me.
And I like that the author made Alessandro very, very strong and weak at the same time. He's an alpha male but not everything is under his control. Malaya? Girl, I need to talk to you about trust system. You trust so easily, and I'm not sure about your decision at the end of this book.
4/5 stars.
Very interesting read indeed.
What did I just read? Everything that happens in this book is so crazy. All the characters, including the author, need to see a therapist. Me too, of course.
I don't know what to say, but not much happens in this story until Malaya gets kidnapped and things really turned for the worst as if her previous situation is not already worse enough. Poor Malaya. Triggers warnings are already there for those who can't digest this kind of content.
This book is actually short and simple and the pacing is also very good. Only the first 10–15 chapters felt a bit draggy to me.
And I like that the author made Alessandro very, very strong and weak at the same time. He's an alpha male but not everything is under his control. Malaya? Girl, I need to talk to you about trust system. You trust so easily, and I'm not sure about your decision at the end of this book.
4/5 stars.
Very interesting read indeed.
July 29, 2025
‼️ARC / STREET TEAM READ, SPOILERS‼️
I have been DYING to read this book for months, I’m so freaking excited. I feel like Alessandro is falling for Malaya but doesn’t want to admit it to himself. I will admit, I was a little confused at first but once I continued to read, it became really clear and omg this book is insane, Alessandro is insane but I love him lmaoo. Malaya, I just want to give her a hug and just be her therapist and friend lol. A bookstore hidden in a coffee shop?? Yes please, send me the address ASAP!! Who is this Cam person and wyd girl? Who are you?? I’m a little suspicious. Omg this book just keeps getting crazier and crazier, I’m so excited to see how it finishes. Oooh Alessandro’s pissed and it’s not pretty when he’s mad.. I’m lowkey excited to see what he does. Someone bring Alessandro’s father back to life.. just so I can have one “conversation” with him, just one. Kate, ily and you’re amazing but WHATT?? I absolutely loved this book, from the characters to the storyline. This book made me want to cry, throw up, stand up and applaud, throw my kindle at the wall, everything. It brings out emotions that you didn't even know you had. I highly recommend it.
Rate: 5/5.
Favorite Quotes:
• ”I crave Malaya like a drug.”
• ”You and your wide-eyed wonder is amazing.”
• ”I’m not calm, sweetheart. Far from it.”
I have been DYING to read this book for months, I’m so freaking excited. I feel like Alessandro is falling for Malaya but doesn’t want to admit it to himself. I will admit, I was a little confused at first but once I continued to read, it became really clear and omg this book is insane, Alessandro is insane but I love him lmaoo. Malaya, I just want to give her a hug and just be her therapist and friend lol. A bookstore hidden in a coffee shop?? Yes please, send me the address ASAP!! Who is this Cam person and wyd girl? Who are you?? I’m a little suspicious. Omg this book just keeps getting crazier and crazier, I’m so excited to see how it finishes. Oooh Alessandro’s pissed and it’s not pretty when he’s mad.. I’m lowkey excited to see what he does. Someone bring Alessandro’s father back to life.. just so I can have one “conversation” with him, just one. Kate, ily and you’re amazing but WHATT?? I absolutely loved this book, from the characters to the storyline. This book made me want to cry, throw up, stand up and applaud, throw my kindle at the wall, everything. It brings out emotions that you didn't even know you had. I highly recommend it.
Rate: 5/5.
Favorite Quotes:
• ”I crave Malaya like a drug.”
• ”You and your wide-eyed wonder is amazing.”
• ”I’m not calm, sweetheart. Far from it.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
WHAT. THE. ACTUAL. FFFF???
First off... please take the trigger list VERY seriously. I read and reread the triggers of this book and I still felt sickened and caught off guard by the depravity of this novel at times.
The way my mouth was open the entire time I read this book. My jaw was literally on the floor with every page turn because it was so absolutely unhinged. And just when I thought it couldn't get any worse I felt like I would have to literally unhinge my own jaw to open it wider because what even was that ending?! Was I shocked or was I screaming? I am honestly not sure because Touch Me Not had me feeling as insane as the main characters of this book.
Kate has consistently been one of my favorite authors. I absolutely love her writing style. The way everything is structured and worded feels like living inside the head of the character whose POV you are reading from and this worked ESPECIALLY well for this dark dystopian psychological horror novel.
Every book from this author gets better and better. I am shamelessly frothing at the mouth for the next book in this dualogy. I need it now. I can't wait to find out what happens next for these toxic, unhinged and addictive MCs.
First off... please take the trigger list VERY seriously. I read and reread the triggers of this book and I still felt sickened and caught off guard by the depravity of this novel at times.
The way my mouth was open the entire time I read this book. My jaw was literally on the floor with every page turn because it was so absolutely unhinged. And just when I thought it couldn't get any worse I felt like I would have to literally unhinge my own jaw to open it wider because what even was that ending?! Was I shocked or was I screaming? I am honestly not sure because Touch Me Not had me feeling as insane as the main characters of this book.
Kate has consistently been one of my favorite authors. I absolutely love her writing style. The way everything is structured and worded feels like living inside the head of the character whose POV you are reading from and this worked ESPECIALLY well for this dark dystopian psychological horror novel.
Every book from this author gets better and better. I am shamelessly frothing at the mouth for the next book in this dualogy. I need it now. I can't wait to find out what happens next for these toxic, unhinged and addictive MCs.
October 12, 2025
I was instantly intrigued after reading the blurb, and diving into this world again reminded me why I love Kate D. Pirate’s storytelling. The male lead is a complex character. Difficult to understand, yet somehow I could empathize with him. The female lead, on the other hand, completely captured my admiration. She may appear innocent, but her strength and resilience truly shine through.
As the story unfolds, I found myself constantly questioning everything. Is he truly bad or good? Who can be trusted? I also felt deeply for the FMC, especially as she struggled with her feelings and the uncertainty of her place in the MMC’s life. Despite their growing bond, their relationship is shadowed by secrets, doubt, and the weight of their circumstances.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Intense, dark, heartbreaking, and yet deeply human. The ending left me shocked and heartbroken, but also eager for the next installment.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: Violence, sexual assault, abuse of women, pregnancy-related trauma.
As the story unfolds, I found myself constantly questioning everything. Is he truly bad or good? Who can be trusted? I also felt deeply for the FMC, especially as she struggled with her feelings and the uncertainty of her place in the MMC’s life. Despite their growing bond, their relationship is shadowed by secrets, doubt, and the weight of their circumstances.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Intense, dark, heartbreaking, and yet deeply human. The ending left me shocked and heartbroken, but also eager for the next installment.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: Violence, sexual assault, abuse of women, pregnancy-related trauma.
September 29, 2025
I love books that push boundaries. Books like this which tread on the taboo will either be repulsive or eye-opening and this was, without a doubt, the latter.
Now, this is not a book that you can read lightly. It is filled with agonizing and complex emotions –raw and multi-layered – as it tackles topics that most people will not be able to read through . So again, please read the TW carefully before attempting this one.
I love that I was able to understand the many facets of what makes the character who they are. This is perhaps the most important part of a psychological horror for me.
As I progress and peel the story layer by layer, it gets more intense and unsettling- like a foreboding, waiting for sh*t to hit the fan. What happened left me with heavy emotions thinking that although this dark romance book is fiction, it pains me when I remember that somebody in the deepest darkest corner of the world is experiencing or has experienced all this.
Now, this is not a book that you can read lightly. It is filled with agonizing and complex emotions –raw and multi-layered – as it tackles topics that most people will not be able to read through . So again, please read the TW carefully before attempting this one.
I love that I was able to understand the many facets of what makes the character who they are. This is perhaps the most important part of a psychological horror for me.
As I progress and peel the story layer by layer, it gets more intense and unsettling- like a foreboding, waiting for sh*t to hit the fan. What happened left me with heavy emotions thinking that although this dark romance book is fiction, it pains me when I remember that somebody in the deepest darkest corner of the world is experiencing or has experienced all this.
August 5, 2025
This, this book - you aren't ready for this book but you have to get it!
Alessandro is something else, two sides of the same coin and as much as I had decided I didn't like him at the start, by the end I had completely changed my mind.
This is a character who carried a lot and as strong, confident and powerful as he may seem - he has a vulnerable side that draws you in and makes you want to fix him.
Enter Malaya, so trusting and full of love for her family that she will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
But when does doing what it takes become less going through the motions and more falling for someone you shouldn't.
This is an unreal read and there is so much more to it - the ups/downs, the secrets, the politics, the fears..... It is just something else and I cannot wait until the next instalment.
Alessandro is something else, two sides of the same coin and as much as I had decided I didn't like him at the start, by the end I had completely changed my mind.
This is a character who carried a lot and as strong, confident and powerful as he may seem - he has a vulnerable side that draws you in and makes you want to fix him.
Enter Malaya, so trusting and full of love for her family that she will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
But when does doing what it takes become less going through the motions and more falling for someone you shouldn't.
This is an unreal read and there is so much more to it - the ups/downs, the secrets, the politics, the fears..... It is just something else and I cannot wait until the next instalment.
October 10, 2025
OMG this was the first book I read from this author and I was thrilled🙈💖. It's a psychological thriller with a touch of horror. I loved the complexity of the main characters and the s!ck dystopian world. The MC has a double personality which intrigued me. There is so much more to him to unravel. The FL shows an amazing strength despite the situations she finds herself in. There is a strange but undeniable connection between them, which needs to polish itself. The book ends in a cliffhanger, so I can't wait to read the second one.
❗I recommend reading the triggers before starting it.
Love💖💓💕
Milena
❗I recommend reading the triggers before starting it.
Love💖💓💕
Milena
October 29, 2025
First, Kate, I adore you! You are amazing person and writer!
This world you have created is absolutely amazingly written and that imagination you have, love!
This book, like others, was so freaking good! The characters, the darkness, world and everything is what i love about this!
There is so much to love, i fell in love with all of your characters. And that hierargy in this book, i mean, how can anyone write this good! Plot was well written, no boring moments and I would have devoured this book at one sitting! But life got in my way, i don’t really have a life but still something kept just coming on my way. Someway it was a blessing because that way I had a chance to live in this world longer.
Honestly can’t wait more from you! You have a fan, and I am not going anywhere!
This world you have created is absolutely amazingly written and that imagination you have, love!
This book, like others, was so freaking good! The characters, the darkness, world and everything is what i love about this!
There is so much to love, i fell in love with all of your characters. And that hierargy in this book, i mean, how can anyone write this good! Plot was well written, no boring moments and I would have devoured this book at one sitting! But life got in my way, i don’t really have a life but still something kept just coming on my way. Someway it was a blessing because that way I had a chance to live in this world longer.
Honestly can’t wait more from you! You have a fan, and I am not going anywhere!
September 28, 2025
🖤Touch Me Not🖤
✍🏼: @ksparrowauthor / @kate.thepirate
(ARC)
📍Ratings
5⭐️
2🌶️
4.5🖤
📍ARC Review
Let’s start by saying that I’ll need a couple of days to recover. I’m trying to find the right words to describe this book, but I think that dark, twisted, and ready to play with your mind is the best description.
If I’ve learned anything from reading dark, pitch-black literature and the occasional horror book, it’s that nothing is what it seems, and this book is no exception. We encounter unique, somewhat crazy characters, who played with me from the beginning. The author intentionally plays with your mind by portraying the characters as morally ambiguous, but then taking it much further than that.
Let me tell you, you better be prepared because you won’t see anything that happens coming. The deeper you get into the book, the more you realize that it could either be an exceptionally crazy reality, or a very dark lie. But, it’s hard to know which. A couple of times I DM the author saying that I was in love with the MMC (which I still am), but no one told me that it would be the beginning of the end for me.
The range of emotions I went through was in tune with our MCs: madness, instability, paranoia, and the desire to know what is real and what is fake.
Both characters are people to be reckoned with; just because one may be gentler than the other, does not mean they have less control than the one who appears to be bigger and more feared. Manipulation is a major driver for both these characters, and they both have concise goals: survival on a grand scale.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and to say that I need to read the rest of her books is an understatement, but first, I need the second book in this series. I need more of these characters, as I’ve apparently become obsessed with them.
📍Do I recommend it?
Of course, but this is more for my girls who are already into the darker side of dark romance. Those girls who are looking to find out how dark the genre can go. Something more psychological, closer to horror.
Something I always like to emphasize is to always to read the trigger warnings before you start reading something; this is not a light book. However, it’s a book that makes you eager to find out what will happen, fills your head with doubts, makes you wonder things are happening, makes you wonder what world you’ve entered, and if what you’re reading is real or if the author is playing with your mind.
So if you’ve made it this far and curiosity still grips you, this is the book for you!
But, as always, remember to come back to me and tell me about it.
There is one last thing I need to ask,
Sandro or Alessandro?
✍🏼: @ksparrowauthor / @kate.thepirate
(ARC)
📍Ratings
5⭐️
2🌶️
4.5🖤
📍ARC Review
Let’s start by saying that I’ll need a couple of days to recover. I’m trying to find the right words to describe this book, but I think that dark, twisted, and ready to play with your mind is the best description.
If I’ve learned anything from reading dark, pitch-black literature and the occasional horror book, it’s that nothing is what it seems, and this book is no exception. We encounter unique, somewhat crazy characters, who played with me from the beginning. The author intentionally plays with your mind by portraying the characters as morally ambiguous, but then taking it much further than that.
Let me tell you, you better be prepared because you won’t see anything that happens coming. The deeper you get into the book, the more you realize that it could either be an exceptionally crazy reality, or a very dark lie. But, it’s hard to know which. A couple of times I DM the author saying that I was in love with the MMC (which I still am), but no one told me that it would be the beginning of the end for me.
The range of emotions I went through was in tune with our MCs: madness, instability, paranoia, and the desire to know what is real and what is fake.
Both characters are people to be reckoned with; just because one may be gentler than the other, does not mean they have less control than the one who appears to be bigger and more feared. Manipulation is a major driver for both these characters, and they both have concise goals: survival on a grand scale.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and to say that I need to read the rest of her books is an understatement, but first, I need the second book in this series. I need more of these characters, as I’ve apparently become obsessed with them.
📍Do I recommend it?
Of course, but this is more for my girls who are already into the darker side of dark romance. Those girls who are looking to find out how dark the genre can go. Something more psychological, closer to horror.
Something I always like to emphasize is to always to read the trigger warnings before you start reading something; this is not a light book. However, it’s a book that makes you eager to find out what will happen, fills your head with doubts, makes you wonder things are happening, makes you wonder what world you’ve entered, and if what you’re reading is real or if the author is playing with your mind.
So if you’ve made it this far and curiosity still grips you, this is the book for you!
But, as always, remember to come back to me and tell me about it.
There is one last thing I need to ask,
Sandro or Alessandro?
October 9, 2025
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC
“Touch me not” is a depiction of cruelty that people suffer from their upbringing. Set in the same dystopian world as the “Muse” series, Alessandro and Malaya are both victims of society and what it does to a person.
Alessandro is a powerful man, and he has learnt how to bend the rules in his favour in order to thrive in a sick society. He suffers from a psychological disorder where the man wishes Malaya to be his and the monsters that want Malaya to keep pure and untouched. Both man and monster see Malaya as something rare in their world, someone that calms their beast because while pure, she is not scared by both.
Malaya has learnt how to survive in a place that is unforgiven to the poor. She survives paycheck to paycheck to help her family in need. Alessandro is a distraction she does not want, and she recognizes how much trouble he is the first time he sees her. She knows he is not someone to be denied, but she cannot resist the pull he has on her. Malaya, while someone that society has not corrupted, craves what Alessandro cannot give her: his heart and his love.
“Touch me not” is unforgiving to its characters. It throws them into a terrible world and makes us watch them struggle to do something as simple as love. Alessandro feels everything to the extreme. He lusts after Malaya with a lot of passion, but he’s also capable of hurting her. He begs her to get somewhere safe, but sees her undone and loses his temper. “Touch me not” is brutal to Alessandro by pointing him someone that can see him for who he is, but he can never fully have, and Malaya by meeting the man who destroys her barrier and will do everything for her, but can be the most tyranical person.
There are a lot of twists and turns, and I hope book two will bring more darkness to Malaya’s world but also salvation to Alessandro. They both deserve a happy ending in the middle of the chaos that is their world. I love that I can already identify that it’s a Kate D. Pirate book by the writing style but also how she portrays raw emotions.
“Touch me not” is a depiction of cruelty that people suffer from their upbringing. Set in the same dystopian world as the “Muse” series, Alessandro and Malaya are both victims of society and what it does to a person.
Alessandro is a powerful man, and he has learnt how to bend the rules in his favour in order to thrive in a sick society. He suffers from a psychological disorder where the man wishes Malaya to be his and the monsters that want Malaya to keep pure and untouched. Both man and monster see Malaya as something rare in their world, someone that calms their beast because while pure, she is not scared by both.
Malaya has learnt how to survive in a place that is unforgiven to the poor. She survives paycheck to paycheck to help her family in need. Alessandro is a distraction she does not want, and she recognizes how much trouble he is the first time he sees her. She knows he is not someone to be denied, but she cannot resist the pull he has on her. Malaya, while someone that society has not corrupted, craves what Alessandro cannot give her: his heart and his love.
“Touch me not” is unforgiving to its characters. It throws them into a terrible world and makes us watch them struggle to do something as simple as love. Alessandro feels everything to the extreme. He lusts after Malaya with a lot of passion, but he’s also capable of hurting her. He begs her to get somewhere safe, but sees her undone and loses his temper. “Touch me not” is brutal to Alessandro by pointing him someone that can see him for who he is, but he can never fully have, and Malaya by meeting the man who destroys her barrier and will do everything for her, but can be the most tyranical person.
There are a lot of twists and turns, and I hope book two will bring more darkness to Malaya’s world but also salvation to Alessandro. They both deserve a happy ending in the middle of the chaos that is their world. I love that I can already identify that it’s a Kate D. Pirate book by the writing style but also how she portrays raw emotions.
September 25, 2025
ARC Book Review: Touch Me Not by Kate D. Pirate. Thank you for choosing me as an ARC reader in exchange for an honest review! This book is set to release on October 10, 2025
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
Recommendation: Touch Me Not is a completely unhinged and layered dark dark romance that isn’t for everyone, but if you’re open to a “what the f did I just read?” kind of story, it’s perfect. Especially for spooky season. It’s a book that makes you think, keeps you on edge, and rewards readers who enjoy complexity in both characters and story. As always *check trigger warnings*.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emotional Damage: ☠️☠️☠️/5
Originality : 🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️ /5
Writing: 🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀/5
Likes: As a Filipino American, it should be no surprise that one of the standout aspects for me was the Filipino representation. I love when books naturally incorporate culture without feeling like a forced lesson. The story itself is completely and utterly unhinged but so well-written with main characters who are complex and compelling. The interplay between the characters and the intricacies of the plot made it such an interesting read. The seamless genre blending was done exceptionally well. This is exactly why I love bookstagram—without it, I probably wouldn’t have discovered this author or picked up a book like this randomly at a store.
Dislikes: I wish Gio had more scenes. Not really a dislike, but I did wish there was more backstory on how the world became dystopian. I know it wasn’t central to the story, but it made me curious. Also, some parts gave off strong gothic horror vibes, and in an alternate universe, I wish the story leaned fully in that direction. That said, I still really liked the direction the book took.
═══⊹⊱≼≽⊰⊹═══
Genre: Dystopian Dark Romance, Psychological Horror
Tropes: Twisted Secrets, Arranged Marriage, Found Family, Mental health rep, Marriage in Crisis.a
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
Recommendation: Touch Me Not is a completely unhinged and layered dark dark romance that isn’t for everyone, but if you’re open to a “what the f did I just read?” kind of story, it’s perfect. Especially for spooky season. It’s a book that makes you think, keeps you on edge, and rewards readers who enjoy complexity in both characters and story. As always *check trigger warnings*.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emotional Damage: ☠️☠️☠️/5
Originality : 🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️ /5
Writing: 🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀/5
Likes: As a Filipino American, it should be no surprise that one of the standout aspects for me was the Filipino representation. I love when books naturally incorporate culture without feeling like a forced lesson. The story itself is completely and utterly unhinged but so well-written with main characters who are complex and compelling. The interplay between the characters and the intricacies of the plot made it such an interesting read. The seamless genre blending was done exceptionally well. This is exactly why I love bookstagram—without it, I probably wouldn’t have discovered this author or picked up a book like this randomly at a store.
Dislikes: I wish Gio had more scenes. Not really a dislike, but I did wish there was more backstory on how the world became dystopian. I know it wasn’t central to the story, but it made me curious. Also, some parts gave off strong gothic horror vibes, and in an alternate universe, I wish the story leaned fully in that direction. That said, I still really liked the direction the book took.
═══⊹⊱≼≽⊰⊹═══
Genre: Dystopian Dark Romance, Psychological Horror
Tropes: Twisted Secrets, Arranged Marriage, Found Family, Mental health rep, Marriage in Crisis.a
July 29, 2025
4.5/5 stars - A lot to unpack here, buckle up.
🌑🌑🌑🌑/5 - darkness level
🌶️🌶️.5 - spice
🩸🩸🩸🩸 - genital frolicking filth
Let me just preface that I don’t post a lot of reviews. I only review when it’s made an impact on me. Good or bad. The ending made me want to chuck this piece of priceless trash far, far away.
To begin, the things I liked was:
☠️Well-written despite being an unedited copy.
☠️The Symbolism and self-awareness.
☠️It’s a good book, good concept, unfiltered take on the life from the slums in the Philippines. I loved that there was no sugarcoating.
☠️I like that the book didn’t take itself too seriously and had enough looseness and humor (satire or otherwise) to take away from the overall gloomy setting. If it didn’t, it would have been a very different, depressing read.
The rest of it is just a wreck. I can’t tell you how many times I had to ask myself who was going crazy here--Malaya, one of Alessandro’s personalities, or me?
And why did I feel personally attacked by the writer for ending it that way?
☠️The Necrophile & his delusions
In real life, known necrophiles are a hard pass for me.
Alessandro, though? Listen... People change. This is the power of the transformative nature of humanity. Sometimes, they seek “warmth” he says it in such a morbidly romantic way, that even I had to think twice.
☠️In the end, It pissed me off Not because it was bad. It took “don’t overexplain the monster” too well. I hated the fact despite everything that’s happened, there’s still more to come. Main character can’t get a break.
If you’re looking for a beautiful love story, this isn’t it. But it will leave a mark. Will I re-read it? No, thank you.
🌑🌑🌑🌑/5 - darkness level
🌶️🌶️.5 - spice
🩸🩸🩸🩸 - genital frolicking filth
Let me just preface that I don’t post a lot of reviews. I only review when it’s made an impact on me. Good or bad. The ending made me want to chuck this piece of priceless trash far, far away.
To begin, the things I liked was:
☠️Well-written despite being an unedited copy.
☠️The Symbolism and self-awareness.
☠️It’s a good book, good concept, unfiltered take on the life from the slums in the Philippines. I loved that there was no sugarcoating.
☠️I like that the book didn’t take itself too seriously and had enough looseness and humor (satire or otherwise) to take away from the overall gloomy setting. If it didn’t, it would have been a very different, depressing read.
The rest of it is just a wreck. I can’t tell you how many times I had to ask myself who was going crazy here--Malaya, one of Alessandro’s personalities, or me?
And why did I feel personally attacked by the writer for ending it that way?
☠️The Necrophile & his delusions
In real life, known necrophiles are a hard pass for me.
Alessandro, though? Listen... People change. This is the power of the transformative nature of humanity. Sometimes, they seek “warmth” he says it in such a morbidly romantic way, that even I had to think twice.
☠️In the end, It pissed me off Not because it was bad. It took “don’t overexplain the monster” too well. I hated the fact despite everything that’s happened, there’s still more to come. Main character can’t get a break.
If you’re looking for a beautiful love story, this isn’t it. But it will leave a mark. Will I re-read it? No, thank you.
October 2, 2025
Touch Me Not - Kate D. Pirate
This is dark dystopian set in the same universe as the Muse Series. I really enjoyed seeing Konstantin and him being referenced. This author knows how to write interesting and engaging universes with complex and dynamic characters. I really love horror and thrillers, especially psychological ones and this book being a mix of that and dark romance was just so that I had to read. Malaya and Alessandro it was just such an interesting couple to read. I’ll think I’ve ever read anything like them. I can’t wait to find out what happens in book 2.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 459 pages
Release Date 🌟 10/10/25
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Malaya Duet, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ dystopian, psychological, thriller, colts, husband’s uncle, Filipino representation, interracial relationship, arranged, marriage, mafia-esque, slow burn, dark romance, Jekyll and Hyde
Favorite Character ☀️ Malaya
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘Could fear coat your skin? It did. It came in the form of gooseflesh that ran deeper, leaving you chilled to the bones even if your heart was racing from trepidation.’
‘I didn’t think I’d been more uncomfortable than I was right now’
“Will he sleep in his suit and tie tonight”
“Exactly what a cult leader would say.”
“Follow him. Do it for the plot.”
This is dark dystopian set in the same universe as the Muse Series. I really enjoyed seeing Konstantin and him being referenced. This author knows how to write interesting and engaging universes with complex and dynamic characters. I really love horror and thrillers, especially psychological ones and this book being a mix of that and dark romance was just so that I had to read. Malaya and Alessandro it was just such an interesting couple to read. I’ll think I’ve ever read anything like them. I can’t wait to find out what happens in book 2.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
🌶️ / Spice Rating ☀️
# of Pages 🌙 459 pages
Release Date 🌟 10/10/25
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Malaya Duet, #1
Genre/Tropes ✨ dystopian, psychological, thriller, colts, husband’s uncle, Filipino representation, interracial relationship, arranged, marriage, mafia-esque, slow burn, dark romance, Jekyll and Hyde
Favorite Character ☀️ Malaya
Favorite Line 🌟 ‘Could fear coat your skin? It did. It came in the form of gooseflesh that ran deeper, leaving you chilled to the bones even if your heart was racing from trepidation.’
‘I didn’t think I’d been more uncomfortable than I was right now’
“Will he sleep in his suit and tie tonight”
“Exactly what a cult leader would say.”
“Follow him. Do it for the plot.”
August 3, 2025
First and foremost, PLEASE HEED THE TRIGGER WARNINGS! IT IS THERE FOR A VERY OBVIOUS REASON!
Good grief, my head hurts. It took me a couple of days to finish this book. It has some heavy scenes that I needed a break in between parts to digest it.
I'm not a stranger to horror, but I've never read anything like this. You witness how a good character gets broken down until they become what they hate the most, but also feeling like they have leveled up in some way? If that makes sense. Like it was her destiny to be what she became. There's a lot of clues and foreshadowing, but you just need to pay very close attention.
To nitpick, the story has a tendency to point out "they're like in a book or movie" although I think this is how the author writes. Very meta.
I came into this book ready and armored, but I still came out staggering and broken. No HEA at all, but I believe there's a second book. My heart broke when Alessandro asked "Will you forget about me, sweetheart?"
Yeah, just fking k!ll me already. Lobotomize me please because I obviously need to be mentally put down when I cried at that little scene. Despite everything, I'm still rooting for him and Malaya.
Good grief, my head hurts. It took me a couple of days to finish this book. It has some heavy scenes that I needed a break in between parts to digest it.
I'm not a stranger to horror, but I've never read anything like this. You witness how a good character gets broken down until they become what they hate the most, but also feeling like they have leveled up in some way? If that makes sense. Like it was her destiny to be what she became. There's a lot of clues and foreshadowing, but you just need to pay very close attention.
To nitpick, the story has a tendency to point out "they're like in a book or movie" although I think this is how the author writes. Very meta.
I came into this book ready and armored, but I still came out staggering and broken. No HEA at all, but I believe there's a second book. My heart broke when Alessandro asked "Will you forget about me, sweetheart?"
Yeah, just fking k!ll me already. Lobotomize me please because I obviously need to be mentally put down when I cried at that little scene. Despite everything, I'm still rooting for him and Malaya.
October 10, 2025
Please read the trigger warnings. Seriously.
I read them—twice—and still found myself sickened, disturbed, and completely unprepared for how dark this book gets. And yet… I couldn’t stop reading.
From page one, my jaw was on the floor. Every chapter left me more unhinged than the last. Just when I thought it couldn’t get worse—it did. That ending?? I still don’t know if I was screaming or just silently imploding.
Kate’s writing is so immersive, it feels like living inside the mind of someone unraveling. I love books that mess with your head, and this one absolutely did. The characters are toxic, obsessive, manipulative—and somehow, I’m obsessed with them. This is dark romance pushed to its psychological horror limits, and I need the sequel yesterday.
This book isn't for everyone. But if you love twisted stories, unreliable narrators, and walking away emotionally wrecked… then yeah, this one’s for you.
One last thing:
Sandro or Alessandro?
I’m still not okay.
I read them—twice—and still found myself sickened, disturbed, and completely unprepared for how dark this book gets. And yet… I couldn’t stop reading.
From page one, my jaw was on the floor. Every chapter left me more unhinged than the last. Just when I thought it couldn’t get worse—it did. That ending?? I still don’t know if I was screaming or just silently imploding.
Kate’s writing is so immersive, it feels like living inside the mind of someone unraveling. I love books that mess with your head, and this one absolutely did. The characters are toxic, obsessive, manipulative—and somehow, I’m obsessed with them. This is dark romance pushed to its psychological horror limits, and I need the sequel yesterday.
This book isn't for everyone. But if you love twisted stories, unreliable narrators, and walking away emotionally wrecked… then yeah, this one’s for you.
One last thing:
Sandro or Alessandro?
I’m still not okay.
September 27, 2025
This book was intense, and dark. Alessandro was complicated, sometimes cruel and sometimes fragile, and that mix made him unforgettable. At first I thought I would not like him, but by the end I was completely invested. He carried so much pain, and behind his power there was a vulnerable side that pulled me in. Malaya was strong, loyal, and so full of love for her family, and I admired how she kept her courage. The connection between Alessandro and Malaya was strange, and yet magnetic. The writing made me uncomfortable in the best way, and scenes that were both shocking and emotional. I loved how it mixed psychological depth, horror vibe, and dark emotions. By the end I was broken, but also amazed. Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
October 1, 2025
what pose would you want to be immortalized in as a statue?
Jokes asideor is it, it's a really thought-provoking read. In the sense that it challenges you to your core. What can you take, what can you swallow? When you learn the deepest darkest, most convoluted secret from someone you saw as your savior--how would you react?
There's a fine line between love and need. And in this book, love is harsh. It is raw. It is messy. Would you love in spite of or love because of? Would you see their ascendance as a struggle to survive and go past it or would you see only the black hidden behind growing darker against the light? How would you accept it? Would you accept it? Or do you endure it?
Not for the faint-hearted. Nothing truly explicit and on-page (except for the spice ofc), but everything is still implied. Prioritize yourselves.
Jokes aside
There's a fine line between love and need. And in this book, love is harsh. It is raw. It is messy. Would you love in spite of or love because of? Would you see their ascendance as a struggle to survive and go past it or would you see only the black hidden behind growing darker against the light? How would you accept it? Would you accept it? Or do you endure it?
Not for the faint-hearted. Nothing truly explicit and on-page (except for the spice ofc), but everything is still implied. Prioritize yourselves.
October 14, 2025
Even after reading the triggers, knowing what the book was marketed for, I still was not prepared for this book! What tub the efff did I just read!?!
This book absouletly blew me out of the water. PLEAS CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!!
These characters were so complex and written so well, i was just blown away with how everything was written and how everything worked so well.
Our FMC, just let me hold her, she’s been through it and from that ending, she isn’t done going through it…..
Our MMC was dark and dangerous but obsessive and unhinged also.
This is a toxic love story,psychological thriller mindf**k, something I was left sitting there with my jaw on the floor over.
Again CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS! But do pick this book up. Also prepare yourself for that ending….
This book absouletly blew me out of the water. PLEAS CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!!
These characters were so complex and written so well, i was just blown away with how everything was written and how everything worked so well.
Our FMC, just let me hold her, she’s been through it and from that ending, she isn’t done going through it…..
Our MMC was dark and dangerous but obsessive and unhinged also.
This is a toxic love story,psychological thriller mindf**k, something I was left sitting there with my jaw on the floor over.
Again CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS! But do pick this book up. Also prepare yourself for that ending….
September 24, 2025
what the actual f....... did i just read?!
this was INSANE! 🤯 (the scene with the baby had me like 👀)
i liked the characters and their absolutely crazy dynamic. what they have together and how they are with eachother... It is soooo wrong, so toxic, and yet.... I kind of want what they have (maybe i'm not so well myself 😅)
i must admit that i at times got a bit confused with the jumping back and forth in time. but it is a really great story!
i did not see all the plot twists that came again and again. really unpredictable!
kate, girl... you need a therapist (and so do i) 😂
i also need to read your other books now 🤌🏼
this was INSANE! 🤯 (the scene with the baby had me like 👀)
i liked the characters and their absolutely crazy dynamic. what they have together and how they are with eachother... It is soooo wrong, so toxic, and yet.... I kind of want what they have (maybe i'm not so well myself 😅)
i must admit that i at times got a bit confused with the jumping back and forth in time. but it is a really great story!
i did not see all the plot twists that came again and again. really unpredictable!
kate, girl... you need a therapist (and so do i) 😂
i also need to read your other books now 🤌🏼
October 2, 2025
ʏᴇᴘ, ɪ ɴᴇᴇᴅ ᴛʜᴇʀᴀᴘʏ ᴀғᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜɪs ᴏɴᴇ. sʜᴏᴏᴋ.
ᴘɪᴄᴛᴜʀᴇ ɪᴛ: ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʀᴀᴢɪᴇsᴛ, ᴜɴʜɪɴɢᴇᴅ, ᴘsʏᴄʜᴏᴛɪᴄ (ʟɪᴛᴇʀᴀʟʟʏ) ᴍᴄ’s ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇɴ ᴅᴏᴜʙʟᴇ ɪᴛ.
ᴛʜɪs ᴛᴏxɪᴄ “ʟᴏᴠᴇ“ sᴛᴏʀʏ ʜᴀᴅ ᴍᴇ sᴏ ɪɴᴠᴇsᴛᴇᴅ ɪ ᴡᴀs sɴᴇᴀᴋ-ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴀᴛ ᴡᴏʀᴋ 🤫ᴊᴜsᴛ ᴡʜᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴋɴᴇᴡ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴡᴀs ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴɪɴɢ, ʙᴀᴍ sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴏᴜᴛᴛᴀ ʟᴇғᴛ ғɪᴇʟᴅ. ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴀᴛᴇ ɪᴛ ᴜᴘ. ᴍᴀʟᴀʏᴀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀʟᴇssᴀɴᴅʀᴏ--ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜᴘʟᴇ ɪs ᴅᴇʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴀɴʏᴡᴀʏ. ɪᴛs ᴍᴀᴅᴅᴇɴɪɴɢ ʟᴏʟ.
ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ᴅɪᴅɴ’ᴛ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴋɴᴏᴡ, ɪ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴋᴀᴛᴇ’s ᴡʀɪᴛɪɴɢ sᴛʏʟᴇ - sʜᴇ ɪs ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴀᴛ sᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ, ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ ʟɪᴋᴇᴀʙʟᴇ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs, ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ ɴᴜᴀɴᴄᴇs ʜᴇʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʙᴜɪʟᴅ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜsᴘᴇɴsᴇ ᴡʜɪʟᴇ ᴋᴇᴇᴘɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴏᴏᴋᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴍᴏʀᴇ.
✨𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬! ✨
ᴘɪᴄᴛᴜʀᴇ ɪᴛ: ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʀᴀᴢɪᴇsᴛ, ᴜɴʜɪɴɢᴇᴅ, ᴘsʏᴄʜᴏᴛɪᴄ (ʟɪᴛᴇʀᴀʟʟʏ) ᴍᴄ’s ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇɴ ᴅᴏᴜʙʟᴇ ɪᴛ.
ᴛʜɪs ᴛᴏxɪᴄ “ʟᴏᴠᴇ“ sᴛᴏʀʏ ʜᴀᴅ ᴍᴇ sᴏ ɪɴᴠᴇsᴛᴇᴅ ɪ ᴡᴀs sɴᴇᴀᴋ-ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ɪᴛ ᴀᴛ ᴡᴏʀᴋ 🤫ᴊᴜsᴛ ᴡʜᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴋɴᴇᴡ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴡᴀs ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴɪɴɢ, ʙᴀᴍ sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴏᴜᴛᴛᴀ ʟᴇғᴛ ғɪᴇʟᴅ. ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴀᴛᴇ ɪᴛ ᴜᴘ. ᴍᴀʟᴀʏᴀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀʟᴇssᴀɴᴅʀᴏ--ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜᴘʟᴇ ɪs ᴅᴇʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴀɴʏᴡᴀʏ. ɪᴛs ᴍᴀᴅᴅᴇɴɪɴɢ ʟᴏʟ.
ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ᴅɪᴅɴ’ᴛ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴋɴᴏᴡ, ɪ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴋᴀᴛᴇ’s ᴡʀɪᴛɪɴɢ sᴛʏʟᴇ - sʜᴇ ɪs ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ ᴀᴛ sᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ, ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ ʟɪᴋᴇᴀʙʟᴇ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs, ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ ɴᴜᴀɴᴄᴇs ʜᴇʀᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʙᴜɪʟᴅ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜsᴘᴇɴsᴇ ᴡʜɪʟᴇ ᴋᴇᴇᴘɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴏᴏᴋᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴍᴏʀᴇ.
✨𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬! ✨
October 10, 2025
another amazing read
This is SUPER dark but it was also really gripping. Malaya was a really interesting character and I enjoyed seeing her change throughout the course of the story. Alessandro was really scary but also really endearing at times. There were some super horrific things done to Malaya during the book and I loved seeing her get retribution for the wrongs done to her. The spice in this(consensual) was incredibly hot and I loved the fact that the narrator was unreliable because I never knew who I could trust or if I could trust anyone at all. The way this ended was amazing and I can’t wait to read what’s next.
This is SUPER dark but it was also really gripping. Malaya was a really interesting character and I enjoyed seeing her change throughout the course of the story. Alessandro was really scary but also really endearing at times. There were some super horrific things done to Malaya during the book and I loved seeing her get retribution for the wrongs done to her. The spice in this(consensual) was incredibly hot and I loved the fact that the narrator was unreliable because I never knew who I could trust or if I could trust anyone at all. The way this ended was amazing and I can’t wait to read what’s next.
September 22, 2025
First and foremost READ the trigger warnings.
This book is so different from other books that I have read.
In a good yet unhinged way. All the twists turns and what the hell did I just read is throughout the entire book.
And I'm here for it and more! Alessandro is, well I'm not sure what he truly is. Good bad evil or just a messed up lost soul.
This was a different read that had me hooked from the beginning and wanting/needing more.
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Story line ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This book is so different from other books that I have read.
In a good yet unhinged way. All the twists turns and what the hell did I just read is throughout the entire book.
And I'm here for it and more! Alessandro is, well I'm not sure what he truly is. Good bad evil or just a messed up lost soul.
This was a different read that had me hooked from the beginning and wanting/needing more.
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Story line ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
August 29, 2025
This was unlike anything I have ever read, it was hard to rate the spice because its not necessarily spicy in the way you think? The whole book is disturbing and the author does a grest job making you feel uncomfortbale. And it gets crazier as you read.
Psychological horror at its finest with a dark romance. Be sure to check your trigger warnings for this book.""** I am still trying to articulate how I feel. But I know I loved it.
Thank you Kate D Pirate for the arc
Allopinions are my own
Psychological horror at its finest with a dark romance. Be sure to check your trigger warnings for this book.""** I am still trying to articulate how I feel. But I know I loved it.
Thank you Kate D Pirate for the arc
Allopinions are my own
October 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kate omg my mind is blown away with this masterpiece like you made question so many things like I was flabbergasted and shocked I had to place my phone down multiple times trying to process everything. I literally screamed into my pillow like girl I need book 2 soon after I process the whole book like I need more of this book also happy release day. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your book and be part of your team.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kate omg my mind is blown away with this masterpiece like you made question so many things like I was flabbergasted and shocked I had to place my phone down multiple times trying to process everything. I literally screamed into my pillow like girl I need book 2 soon after I process the whole book like I need more of this book also happy release day. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your book and be part of your team.
Read
October 28, 2025arc review
Every now and then, I don't gravitate to a book. Sadly this happens to be one of these times. The read was definitely dysfunctional. This was not the issue. It was a traumatic read where the characters were traumatized. rules, hierarchy, flesh level, purity put to question - it was all here.
This would be a read for readers who have an open mind. This was not a walk in the park read where chocolates and flowers are given. Abuse is what is given, even death.
Every now and then, I don't gravitate to a book. Sadly this happens to be one of these times. The read was definitely dysfunctional. This was not the issue. It was a traumatic read where the characters were traumatized. rules, hierarchy, flesh level, purity put to question - it was all here.
This would be a read for readers who have an open mind. This was not a walk in the park read where chocolates and flowers are given. Abuse is what is given, even death.
November 12, 2025
Incredible unique story that I had no idea where the author was going to take it. Really cool world building where the dystopian future that the story is set in organically shows itself throughout the story. I cannot wait for the sequel. The FMC is super strong and independent and the MMC has my favourite trait of having two sides to himself xoxo I am definitely reading more by this author! I already have Muse on my bookshelf.
August 25, 2025
This was a very fascinating read. The book was very different from what I tend to usually read. The plot, the characters, the hooks, it was amazing. As an ARC reader, I stride for honesty, and this book was very alluring, very disturbing in all the right ways, and the spice was immaculate. I enjoyed this read -- and all its disturbing glory! 🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2025
Touch Me Not by Kate D. Pirate was phenomenal! The plot was so well done, the character development fit the story perfectly, and I was completely invested from page one. Then came the insane plot twist. I was so flabbergasted I had to read it twice just to believe it. And that ending? One hell of a cliffhanger that lives rent free in my head. I absolutely cannot wait for book two!
September 19, 2025
OMG this book was INSANE!!! I loved it! At first I had a hard time getting into it, I wasn't really sure what it was about. At around 15% I was hooked!! There are so many twists and turns and plot twists and depravity and it was all beautiful! I can't wait for the 2nd one. There were some little editing errors and some of the names thew me off, but other than that, it was really good!
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