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Somewhere in the Dark
There are much worse things than dying.
Growing up, I had always expected to find my escape outside of that trailer. Away from the screams that echo through the halls, away from the covered up bruises and hollow apologies. But life had other plans, dragging me back into the nightmare of my childhood home. And now I find myself torn between keeping my mother safe from the monster who haunts the house and finding freedom in the arms of a long lost childhood friend who is fighting his own ghosts.
My name is Nova Harper, and I promise you there are much worse things than dying.
Growing up, I had always expected to find my escape outside of that trailer. Away from the screams that echo through the halls, away from the covered up bruises and hollow apologies. But life had other plans, dragging me back into the nightmare of my childhood home. And now I find myself torn between keeping my mother safe from the monster who haunts the house and finding freedom in the arms of a long lost childhood friend who is fighting his own ghosts.
My name is Nova Harper, and I promise you there are much worse things than dying.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 18, 2026
10 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 9, 2025
FIVE FUCKING STARS.
This one got me good 😭💔
It was so good from the start and I literally couldn’t put it down today! I’m so beyond proud of O.D Emma. This one was incredible 🖤
Do yourself a favor and read it when it’s out, but just be aware that you WILL cry.
This one got me good 😭💔
It was so good from the start and I literally couldn’t put it down today! I’m so beyond proud of O.D Emma. This one was incredible 🖤
Do yourself a favor and read it when it’s out, but just be aware that you WILL cry.
November 1, 2025
i'm at a loss for words.
this book. is something unlike anything else. i can't quite believe that i got to read this and work on it as a collaborative venture of sorts and i can't quite put my whole feelings into a review i don't think.
to have read this from page 1 until the end,multiple times. i was in tears, every. single. time. i'm at a loss for words every time i go back over my highlights,this story means the most to me than anything i have ever read i think,in more ways than one,not only is the author my best friend but the personal touches i was able to leave behind as a reader will mean more to me than anything.
from my notes,through to the final copies and the readers who come after me,i hope you feel as touched as i did.
a story following a trio of main characters,but side characters just as important a like,from saint,to abigail,to jackson,to luke & to our special girl nova,they all played out in a way i'll never be able to explain and touched my heart in more ways than one,nova reminds me of myself,saint reminds me of my partner,luke reminds me of the toxic one that never seems to leave,abigail reminds me of olivia.. and im lucky to have my own version of abigail in olivia,how crazy she basically wrote a version of herself for me hey without even realising? and jackson, the best friend i wish i had, the ever so supportive,the special one,the one that is ride or die. the one we all wish to have. they grow together as a group & the. tragically get torn apart in the worst way.. this is the epitome of a romantic tradgey. it broke my heart,time and time again.
a plot line so strong i don't think i have ever read elsewhere,a story that isn't smut,that isn't spicy or gore, the plot line that defines all plot lines for me. because it's personal. it feels like a replay of my life and all the worst parts but hey somehow it is healing me,in every way. i read it as myself going through it and it made me realise my end was not meant to be the same, the out i was searching for was not the same as this story and reading it honestly made me realise this. it healed younger me,it showed me a story that could've been mine and most of all. it introduced me to a best friend i am ever so lucky to call my own. and this. is enough of a reason for me to never ever let go of this story.
i found my friend in olivia, i found myself in nova. and i hope you finding this story, you find your saint. and you remember, you are special,you are worthy, the world is better because of you. i love you.
i never rate in my personal reviews because i just couldn't, this one is a special one. but an easy ♾️⭐️ none the less.
life is special because of you,and i promise you... there is so much worse things than dying❤️🩹
this book. is something unlike anything else. i can't quite believe that i got to read this and work on it as a collaborative venture of sorts and i can't quite put my whole feelings into a review i don't think.
to have read this from page 1 until the end,multiple times. i was in tears, every. single. time. i'm at a loss for words every time i go back over my highlights,this story means the most to me than anything i have ever read i think,in more ways than one,not only is the author my best friend but the personal touches i was able to leave behind as a reader will mean more to me than anything.
from my notes,through to the final copies and the readers who come after me,i hope you feel as touched as i did.
a story following a trio of main characters,but side characters just as important a like,from saint,to abigail,to jackson,to luke & to our special girl nova,they all played out in a way i'll never be able to explain and touched my heart in more ways than one,nova reminds me of myself,saint reminds me of my partner,luke reminds me of the toxic one that never seems to leave,abigail reminds me of olivia.. and im lucky to have my own version of abigail in olivia,how crazy she basically wrote a version of herself for me hey without even realising? and jackson, the best friend i wish i had, the ever so supportive,the special one,the one that is ride or die. the one we all wish to have. they grow together as a group & the. tragically get torn apart in the worst way.. this is the epitome of a romantic tradgey. it broke my heart,time and time again.
a plot line so strong i don't think i have ever read elsewhere,a story that isn't smut,that isn't spicy or gore, the plot line that defines all plot lines for me. because it's personal. it feels like a replay of my life and all the worst parts but hey somehow it is healing me,in every way. i read it as myself going through it and it made me realise my end was not meant to be the same, the out i was searching for was not the same as this story and reading it honestly made me realise this. it healed younger me,it showed me a story that could've been mine and most of all. it introduced me to a best friend i am ever so lucky to call my own. and this. is enough of a reason for me to never ever let go of this story.
i found my friend in olivia, i found myself in nova. and i hope you finding this story, you find your saint. and you remember, you are special,you are worthy, the world is better because of you. i love you.
i never rate in my personal reviews because i just couldn't, this one is a special one. but an easy ♾️⭐️ none the less.
life is special because of you,and i promise you... there is so much worse things than dying❤️🩹
November 1, 2025
early arc review 🖤
♾️☆
“𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔥𝔞𝔱𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯𝔰𝔢𝔩𝔣 𝔰𝔬 𝔡𝔢𝔢𝔭𝔩𝔶, 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔡𝔬𝔫’𝔱 𝔩𝔢𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔯𝔬𝔬𝔪 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔞𝔫𝔶𝔬𝔫𝔢 𝔱𝔬 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲.”
this book is so real it hurts. i don’t think i will ever have the right words to describe how much i love this story. it is so full of pain, heartache, healing, breaking and suffocating, it was hard to breathe through some of these pages.
being inside this story felt like i was in the mind of our main character nova, and it was PAINFUL. everything she experienced and witnessed felt like i could see it right in front of me.
every character in this story is so human, so raw, and so broken, seeing them come together to form their little found family stitched up my broken pieces and left me lying in a pool of my own tears.
nova, my little dying star, you are enough. nothing you ever did warranted what you went through and i will love you until my dying breath. your soul is so bright, so loving and so beautiful.
and a little note for my baby luke, who burrowed his way into my heart deeper than the rest for some reason, i love you deeply 😭🖤
thank you so much, o.d emma, for sharing this story with me. i hope when the rest of the world gets their hands on it, they will hold these characters gently with the love they and you deserve. i am so beyond proud of you today and always. i love you 🖤
♾️☆
“𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔥𝔞𝔱𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯𝔰𝔢𝔩𝔣 𝔰𝔬 𝔡𝔢𝔢𝔭𝔩𝔶, 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔡𝔬𝔫’𝔱 𝔩𝔢𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔯𝔬𝔬𝔪 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔞𝔫𝔶𝔬𝔫𝔢 𝔱𝔬 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲.”
this book is so real it hurts. i don’t think i will ever have the right words to describe how much i love this story. it is so full of pain, heartache, healing, breaking and suffocating, it was hard to breathe through some of these pages.
being inside this story felt like i was in the mind of our main character nova, and it was PAINFUL. everything she experienced and witnessed felt like i could see it right in front of me.
every character in this story is so human, so raw, and so broken, seeing them come together to form their little found family stitched up my broken pieces and left me lying in a pool of my own tears.
nova, my little dying star, you are enough. nothing you ever did warranted what you went through and i will love you until my dying breath. your soul is so bright, so loving and so beautiful.
and a little note for my baby luke, who burrowed his way into my heart deeper than the rest for some reason, i love you deeply 😭🖤
thank you so much, o.d emma, for sharing this story with me. i hope when the rest of the world gets their hands on it, they will hold these characters gently with the love they and you deserve. i am so beyond proud of you today and always. i love you 🖤
January 9, 2026
I went into this book knowing only one thing… no HEA.
This is the 2nd book ever to have me SOBBING at the end😭 This was BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, it was poetic, emotional, realistic and overall PHENOMENAL. The ending took a turn I did NOT see coming😩 I DEVOURED THIS.
The book touches up on heavy topics such as suicide, addiction, domestic violence etc. so this is definitely not for everyone. Make sure you read the triggers before picking up this read
I don’t have any recollection applying for this ARC but it was the BEST surprise ARC EVER. I absolutely
This is the 2nd book ever to have me SOBBING at the end😭 This was BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, it was poetic, emotional, realistic and overall PHENOMENAL. The ending took a turn I did NOT see coming😩 I DEVOURED THIS.
The book touches up on heavy topics such as suicide, addiction, domestic violence etc. so this is definitely not for everyone. Make sure you read the triggers before picking up this read
I don’t have any recollection applying for this ARC but it was the BEST surprise ARC EVER. I absolutely
November 9, 2025
i feel robbed of my chest. this was so raw and real and everyone in this book deserves their moment. mental health is truly so important and it goes to show you don’t know someone is struggling with behind closed doors. beautifully written. if you need to feel something, this is it 😭💔
Review of advance copy received from Author
Talk about a whirlwind of emotions.. we start off straight jump into harsh reality... old saying it takes a person 7 times to leave an abusive relationship but we never hear about the trauma or issues out does to the children in those relationships... but today you will when reading!!
You learn the consequences for the children and so many others we see so many different sides of battles of so many forms! As always CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!.!!!!
You learn the consequences for the children and so many others we see so many different sides of battles of so many forms! As always CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!.!!!!
November 24, 2025
“You hate yourself so deeply, you don’t leave room for anyone to love you.” - Somewhere in the Dark by O.D Emma
✨Mental Health Rep
🖤Found Family
✨Virgin FMC
🖤Sharing is Caring Scene
✨Trauma
🖤Everyone Can See Their Love But Them
✨”you came?” “You called”
🖤He Eats Like it’s Hid Job
✨Childhood BFFS x Enemies x Lovers
🖤Pierced 🍆
Firstly I’d like to thank O.D Emma for writing this devastatingly beautiful story, for writing something so real and raw that will now forever be one of my favourite books of all time! As someone who has experienced a lot of the things our FMC Nova experiences, I felt this on a whole new level. Somewhere in the Dark connected with me on a soul deep level and for that I’m so grateful to you Olivia for writing a book that has helped heal parts of me that I didn’t think could be 🖤
O.D Emma transported me into Nova’s world, I truly felt like I was there with her, experiencing all the good and bad things that happened throughout this book and paired with the killer playlist, it all added to the emotional rollercoaster i went on while reading.
“My perfect dying star.”
Nova and Saint have my entire heart, I fell head over heels in love with both our MCs from the moment we meet them and I’ll definitely be thinking about them for a long time. Their love for each other was sometimes messy but the pure love they shared was unlike anything else.
For me a truly amazing book is one that can make me feel a lot emotions and best believe me, this one did. I went from kicking my feet and screaming to happy crying to full blown breakdown. I don’t think my heart will ever been the same again but I’m ok with that because it means I got to experience this true masterpiece of a book!
I truly believe that O.D. Emma went above and beyond with this story.
Im so incredibly proud of you Olivia for writing this book, you wrote from your heart and I felt it. This book means so much to me and I know it’s going to mean so much to so many people 🫂
Please remember to check TWs before reading as Somewhere in the Dark touches on some dark topics. Your mental health matters.
And to anyone who has/ is struggling with mental health, you are not alone, you are loved and your are strong. You got this 🫶🏼
✨Mental Health Rep
🖤Found Family
✨Virgin FMC
🖤Sharing is Caring Scene
✨Trauma
🖤Everyone Can See Their Love But Them
✨”you came?” “You called”
🖤He Eats Like it’s Hid Job
✨Childhood BFFS x Enemies x Lovers
🖤Pierced 🍆
Firstly I’d like to thank O.D Emma for writing this devastatingly beautiful story, for writing something so real and raw that will now forever be one of my favourite books of all time! As someone who has experienced a lot of the things our FMC Nova experiences, I felt this on a whole new level. Somewhere in the Dark connected with me on a soul deep level and for that I’m so grateful to you Olivia for writing a book that has helped heal parts of me that I didn’t think could be 🖤
O.D Emma transported me into Nova’s world, I truly felt like I was there with her, experiencing all the good and bad things that happened throughout this book and paired with the killer playlist, it all added to the emotional rollercoaster i went on while reading.
“My perfect dying star.”
Nova and Saint have my entire heart, I fell head over heels in love with both our MCs from the moment we meet them and I’ll definitely be thinking about them for a long time. Their love for each other was sometimes messy but the pure love they shared was unlike anything else.
For me a truly amazing book is one that can make me feel a lot emotions and best believe me, this one did. I went from kicking my feet and screaming to happy crying to full blown breakdown. I don’t think my heart will ever been the same again but I’m ok with that because it means I got to experience this true masterpiece of a book!
I truly believe that O.D. Emma went above and beyond with this story.
Im so incredibly proud of you Olivia for writing this book, you wrote from your heart and I felt it. This book means so much to me and I know it’s going to mean so much to so many people 🫂
Please remember to check TWs before reading as Somewhere in the Dark touches on some dark topics. Your mental health matters.
And to anyone who has/ is struggling with mental health, you are not alone, you are loved and your are strong. You got this 🫶🏼
November 6, 2025
I am sobbing at this book. I loved every minute of reading this. It does hit some hard topics, I was loving following Novas story and the ending had me sobbing. It's a beautifully written book, the characters are all wonderful and it really does hit you right in the feels.
I'd highly recommend this book, but remember to check trigger warnings before reading!
I'd highly recommend this book, but remember to check trigger warnings before reading!
November 30, 2025
ARC BOOK REVIEW
I'm in literal sobbing mode right now. Excuse me while my heart rips open.
But no seriously, I will recommend this book to absolutely everyone in the world!!!
Let me point out the triggers first before getting into the ARC read for this book.
- Dr*g involvement / overdosing references
- Alcoholi$m
- Ex best friends to enemies to lovers
- Physical abu$e
- Intimate encounters in details
- Mental health struggles
So let me get into this book now along with my personal connections. @o.d.emma captured everything I said with the triggers as perfectly clear as anyone could and brought so much emotion for her characters involved. I've got personal lived life experiences with several of these triggers as named above and I work in the mental health field along with being the Opioid Response and Harm Reduction Specialist for my agency; I literally could not put this read down. It sucked me in and I was entirely there for the ride. The world we live in is scary now with all of these things OD Emma incorporates into this book and I'm beyond proud that she was not afraid to take this full force. I feel like this book will touch lives, force more stigma out, and change perspectives. I personally feel seen now and like I'm not alone. This does not end in HEA and you are warned about that, but you should know that if you miss out on this book, you're missing out on an amazing book written by an amazing indie author.
I'm in literal sobbing mode right now. Excuse me while my heart rips open.
But no seriously, I will recommend this book to absolutely everyone in the world!!!
Let me point out the triggers first before getting into the ARC read for this book.
- Dr*g involvement / overdosing references
- Alcoholi$m
- Ex best friends to enemies to lovers
- Physical abu$e
- Intimate encounters in details
- Mental health struggles
So let me get into this book now along with my personal connections. @o.d.emma captured everything I said with the triggers as perfectly clear as anyone could and brought so much emotion for her characters involved. I've got personal lived life experiences with several of these triggers as named above and I work in the mental health field along with being the Opioid Response and Harm Reduction Specialist for my agency; I literally could not put this read down. It sucked me in and I was entirely there for the ride. The world we live in is scary now with all of these things OD Emma incorporates into this book and I'm beyond proud that she was not afraid to take this full force. I feel like this book will touch lives, force more stigma out, and change perspectives. I personally feel seen now and like I'm not alone. This does not end in HEA and you are warned about that, but you should know that if you miss out on this book, you're missing out on an amazing book written by an amazing indie author.
November 30, 2025
"You breathe life into what I thought was nothing more than a dull existence.”
This book is as hauntingly tragic as it is breathtakingly beautiful. I basically devoured it in one sitting, and it absolutely destroyed me in the best - and worst - way.
Nova has survived a childhood no one should ever endure. The weight of her past presses hard against her present, and all she wants is a moment of peace. After a devastating event, she returns to the place she once called home - a place where the monster still lingers. Surrounded by the ruins of her past, she’s forced to navigate a present filled with pain, choices, and consequences that cut deep.
I lost count of how many times I wanted to reach through the pages and wrap Nova (and everyone around her) in the biggest hug. The emotions in this story are raw and relentless. One minute I was sobbing, the next I was kicking my feet, laughing, tearing up with joy, and then suddenly feeling very hot and flustered.
The found family element is woven so beautifully throughout. Abbey and Jackson truly shine, bringing warmth and hope to the darker scenes. And Saint and Luke? My heart bleeds for them both.
The pacing, the plot, and everything in between was perfection. Six heart-breaking stars 🌟
The ending left me in a state of emotional ruin. And the epilogue? Absolutely shattering ❤️🩹
If you're craving a dark, tragic love story...brace yourself! It may be a shorter read, but it will take you on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster and your heart will pay the price. There is no HEA but this book will live rent free in my heart forever.
"But sometimes bad things just happen. They linger around us, a stark reminder of how truly out of control our lives are." ......
"All that we can do is grasp onto the moment while it’s in front of us, and cherish it while we can."
Very grateful that I had the privilege of ARC reading this masterpiece. Thank you O.D. Emma 🫶🏻
This book is as hauntingly tragic as it is breathtakingly beautiful. I basically devoured it in one sitting, and it absolutely destroyed me in the best - and worst - way.
Nova has survived a childhood no one should ever endure. The weight of her past presses hard against her present, and all she wants is a moment of peace. After a devastating event, she returns to the place she once called home - a place where the monster still lingers. Surrounded by the ruins of her past, she’s forced to navigate a present filled with pain, choices, and consequences that cut deep.
I lost count of how many times I wanted to reach through the pages and wrap Nova (and everyone around her) in the biggest hug. The emotions in this story are raw and relentless. One minute I was sobbing, the next I was kicking my feet, laughing, tearing up with joy, and then suddenly feeling very hot and flustered.
The found family element is woven so beautifully throughout. Abbey and Jackson truly shine, bringing warmth and hope to the darker scenes. And Saint and Luke? My heart bleeds for them both.
The pacing, the plot, and everything in between was perfection. Six heart-breaking stars 🌟
The ending left me in a state of emotional ruin. And the epilogue? Absolutely shattering ❤️🩹
If you're craving a dark, tragic love story...brace yourself! It may be a shorter read, but it will take you on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster and your heart will pay the price. There is no HEA but this book will live rent free in my heart forever.
"But sometimes bad things just happen. They linger around us, a stark reminder of how truly out of control our lives are." ......
"All that we can do is grasp onto the moment while it’s in front of us, and cherish it while we can."
Very grateful that I had the privilege of ARC reading this masterpiece. Thank you O.D. Emma 🫶🏻
December 22, 2025
A Shattering, Hauntingly Beautiful Masterpiece
First, I have to thank Olivia Emma for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing story. I related to this book on a deeply personal level, and I can say with certainty that Olivia is an amazing talent. Please, never stop writing!
Somewhere in the Dark is as hauntingly tragic as it is breathtakingly beautiful. This one "got me good"—it was so gripping from the start that I literally couldn’t put it down. This book is so real it hurts; it is so full of pain, heartache, healing, and breaking that it was actually hard to breathe through some of these pages.
Reading this felt like being inside the mind of our main character, Nova. It was painful, raw, and vivid—everything she witnessed felt like it was happening right in front of me. Every character in this story is so human and so broken. Seeing them come together to form their "found family"—with Abbey and Jackson truly shining—stitched up my own broken pieces, only to leave me lying in a pool of my own tears by the end.
Nova and Saint have my entire heart. I fell head over heels for them the moment we met, and their messy, pure, and deep love will stay with me for a long time. This story is a vital reminder that mental health is so important and that you never truly know what someone is carrying behind closed doors.
The ending left me in a state of emotional ruin, and the epilogue was absolutely shattering. I loved every minute of this journey, even the parts that broke me.
Love this:
“You hate yourself so deeply, you don’t leave room for anyone to love you.” - Somewhere in the Dark by O.D Emma
Note: Please remember to check the trigger warnings before reading, as this story touches on some very dark topics.
First, I have to thank Olivia Emma for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing story. I related to this book on a deeply personal level, and I can say with certainty that Olivia is an amazing talent. Please, never stop writing!
Somewhere in the Dark is as hauntingly tragic as it is breathtakingly beautiful. This one "got me good"—it was so gripping from the start that I literally couldn’t put it down. This book is so real it hurts; it is so full of pain, heartache, healing, and breaking that it was actually hard to breathe through some of these pages.
Reading this felt like being inside the mind of our main character, Nova. It was painful, raw, and vivid—everything she witnessed felt like it was happening right in front of me. Every character in this story is so human and so broken. Seeing them come together to form their "found family"—with Abbey and Jackson truly shining—stitched up my own broken pieces, only to leave me lying in a pool of my own tears by the end.
Nova and Saint have my entire heart. I fell head over heels for them the moment we met, and their messy, pure, and deep love will stay with me for a long time. This story is a vital reminder that mental health is so important and that you never truly know what someone is carrying behind closed doors.
The ending left me in a state of emotional ruin, and the epilogue was absolutely shattering. I loved every minute of this journey, even the parts that broke me.
Love this:
“You hate yourself so deeply, you don’t leave room for anyone to love you.” - Somewhere in the Dark by O.D Emma
Note: Please remember to check the trigger warnings before reading, as this story touches on some very dark topics.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
I just finished reading this and I’m in tears. This is my first time reading O.D Emma and honestly, it’s one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful books I’ve ever read. It’s written beautifully about tragic everyday, real life situations…..and I haven’t read anything quite like it.
Nova is a girl who’s struggled with depression, so much that a bottle of pills may be the answer. The result is a hospital stay and her mother picking her up to take her back home. But taking Nova home is taking her back to her father, an alcoholic, whose violence has always found a place with Nova and her mother. From one bad situation into another, life is like walking on eggshells, trying not to anger the monster living under the same roof.
Surrounding herself with new friends, Nova reconnects with Saint, the boy who was her best friend, who grew into everything she’s ever wanted. But life can be cruel, and Saint has demons of his own that emphasize with great care by the author, the real and dark side of drug addiction.
This story tells the twists of fate that can be damming, constantly asking what if I’d done this differently, or what if I’d done that differently, how something can be taken away only to realize the fairytale was just on the other side after all and that love is always a risk, but your choices are your own and if you choose to love, love endlessly.
This book deals with DV and drug addiction, its honest, its real and it’s a book I’ll remember and recommend for a long time.
And thank you Mum, for knowing when it was enough and getting us out xx
I just finished reading this and I’m in tears. This is my first time reading O.D Emma and honestly, it’s one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful books I’ve ever read. It’s written beautifully about tragic everyday, real life situations…..and I haven’t read anything quite like it.
Nova is a girl who’s struggled with depression, so much that a bottle of pills may be the answer. The result is a hospital stay and her mother picking her up to take her back home. But taking Nova home is taking her back to her father, an alcoholic, whose violence has always found a place with Nova and her mother. From one bad situation into another, life is like walking on eggshells, trying not to anger the monster living under the same roof.
Surrounding herself with new friends, Nova reconnects with Saint, the boy who was her best friend, who grew into everything she’s ever wanted. But life can be cruel, and Saint has demons of his own that emphasize with great care by the author, the real and dark side of drug addiction.
This story tells the twists of fate that can be damming, constantly asking what if I’d done this differently, or what if I’d done that differently, how something can be taken away only to realize the fairytale was just on the other side after all and that love is always a risk, but your choices are your own and if you choose to love, love endlessly.
This book deals with DV and drug addiction, its honest, its real and it’s a book I’ll remember and recommend for a long time.
And thank you Mum, for knowing when it was enough and getting us out xx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 28, 2025Absolutely Chilling and Unputdownable – 5 Stars
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for "Something in the Dark".
O.D. Emma has officially solidified herself as a queen of the "dark and gritty." I went into Something in the Dark expecting a standard thriller, but what I got was an atmospheric masterpiece that felt like it was wrapping its fingers around my throat from the very first chapter. If you are looking for a "safe" read, keep moving—but if you want a book that pushes boundaries and leaves you breathless, this is it!
O.D. Emma clearly has mastered the art of showing and not just telling. So many times I paused to sit with all the feelings and actions Nova was battling. I can not even remember how many times I was caught in a spiral of emotions that just paused and cried.
I ABSOLUTELY, 100% needed to read this book and let each page settle where it needed to. Having read her novellas, I believe this is the most emotionally driven book I've read all year and that along with the novella, O.D Emma proves she can shift her talents of showing not just telling in multiple genres. At the end of the day, what impressed me the most was I WANTED to hold Nova close because too much of her felt so utterly real that I didn't want my heart broken. But, this isn't a happy love story, and you could almost feel the path beneath your feet leading you into that darkness.
One hell of a novel that will live rent free in my head, and although heartbreaking I'll never forget how Nova rattled my heart to its core.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I must read.
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for "Something in the Dark".
O.D. Emma has officially solidified herself as a queen of the "dark and gritty." I went into Something in the Dark expecting a standard thriller, but what I got was an atmospheric masterpiece that felt like it was wrapping its fingers around my throat from the very first chapter. If you are looking for a "safe" read, keep moving—but if you want a book that pushes boundaries and leaves you breathless, this is it!
O.D. Emma clearly has mastered the art of showing and not just telling. So many times I paused to sit with all the feelings and actions Nova was battling. I can not even remember how many times I was caught in a spiral of emotions that just paused and cried.
I ABSOLUTELY, 100% needed to read this book and let each page settle where it needed to. Having read her novellas, I believe this is the most emotionally driven book I've read all year and that along with the novella, O.D Emma proves she can shift her talents of showing not just telling in multiple genres. At the end of the day, what impressed me the most was I WANTED to hold Nova close because too much of her felt so utterly real that I didn't want my heart broken. But, this isn't a happy love story, and you could almost feel the path beneath your feet leading you into that darkness.
One hell of a novel that will live rent free in my head, and although heartbreaking I'll never forget how Nova rattled my heart to its core.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I must read.
January 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/🌶️🌶️.5
“But whenever the dark moments of your life cloud your thoughts, it’s hard to remember when the sun shined. “
“You hate yourself so deeply, you don’t leave room for anyone to love you.”
I love when a book makes me feel something, and this one did just that. It was so real, emotional, and raw. O.D Emma’s writing was amazing. I felt like I was in the mind of our FMC and it was gut wrenching. I connected with her on so many levels, it hit very close to home. This poor soul had so much trauma. This book made me feel angry and devastated. It healed me and broke me.
Nova returns to her childhood home after trying to take her own life, she is met with the ghosts of her past. Saint her childhood best friend is still resentful that she left all those years ago. He tries to hold on to that anger but the two are drawn together. She is battling her childhood trauma and he is fighting his own demons. They soon find themselves clinging to each, but will their darkness swallow them?
Now Luke.. The side character that was somehow my favorite character. He deserved better and I truly will never recover. 😭😭😭
It’s been a while since a book made me sob. This was so beautifully raw. I still haven’t recovered and I’m not sure I will.
It gave mental health rep, virgin FMC, pierced MMC, found family, trauma, childhood best friend’s x enemies x lovers, and you came? You called.
Please check your triggers and if you or someone you know is struggling with mental help please seek help.
Suicide and Crisis hotline dial 988
November 1, 2025
* NO SPOILERS*
-There is always something better. I promise you, don’t lose hope.-
✷ I cried so much with this story. Not only is it beautifully dark but it’s something I can relate to. Unfortunately I have my own dark past and this book made me proud that I left an abusive household before IT WAS too late. Just my daughter and I. It was always for her. ✷
I don’t even know where to start and I don’t think there will be enough words to express how traumatic and psychologically heart wrenching this story is.
Nova (FMC) goes through many life experiences that you can’t even imagine, starting from a young child into adulthood.
Saint (MMC) was suppose to be her childhood best friend but had to deal with the separation from Nova.
She had to escape the abuse in her home no matter what!
Time goes by and Saint hears nothing from her.
But when she finally returns after years of her own turmoil, she finds Saint being happy.
Can he keep his mental walls up?
Can he ignore Nova?
Throughout this story friendships are formed, drugs are used to subside pain, sexual activity is performed but at the end is it enough once happiness is finally formed….. does the Death Moth finally come to collect?
.
.
🏵️Thank you IG: @o.d.emma for giving me the opportunity to read your stories. 🏵️
.
If you or someone you know is struggling with ✷Domestic Violence please call: 1-800-799-7233
✷Suicide & Crisis Hotline
988
-There is always something better. I promise you, don’t lose hope.-
✷ I cried so much with this story. Not only is it beautifully dark but it’s something I can relate to. Unfortunately I have my own dark past and this book made me proud that I left an abusive household before IT WAS too late. Just my daughter and I. It was always for her. ✷
I don’t even know where to start and I don’t think there will be enough words to express how traumatic and psychologically heart wrenching this story is.
Nova (FMC) goes through many life experiences that you can’t even imagine, starting from a young child into adulthood.
Saint (MMC) was suppose to be her childhood best friend but had to deal with the separation from Nova.
She had to escape the abuse in her home no matter what!
Time goes by and Saint hears nothing from her.
But when she finally returns after years of her own turmoil, she finds Saint being happy.
Can he keep his mental walls up?
Can he ignore Nova?
Throughout this story friendships are formed, drugs are used to subside pain, sexual activity is performed but at the end is it enough once happiness is finally formed….. does the Death Moth finally come to collect?
.
.
🏵️Thank you IG: @o.d.emma for giving me the opportunity to read your stories. 🏵️
.
If you or someone you know is struggling with ✷Domestic Violence please call: 1-800-799-7233
✷Suicide & Crisis Hotline
988
December 5, 2025
Check your trigger warnings!
I've read some dark reads that beautifully broke me, but Somewhere in the Dark left me speechless!
Nova was raised in a household with domestic violence and an alcoholic father. Her mother never chose to leave and Nova had a hard time trying to comprehend why. She left home, homeless for a year from being kicked out and never wanted to return. She became suicidal and when she tried to unalive herself, thats when she returned home.
Saint has been her bestfriend since childhood. When she left he tried to hate her buy couldn't. Even though he had a girlfriend, Abby, he always wanted to be with Nova,his true love.
His bestfriend Luke is a drug dealer and the town is having issues with over dosing. Their other friend is Jackson. They are like a small family. Saint and Nova finally get together trying to have their happy ending.
Nova and Saint has their demons that they fight everyday. Nova can't help herself from hearing the voices telling her she doesn't deserve happiness. She is always waiting for destruction.
This read destroyed me, leaving me speechless. The twist of learning Saint's demons and the epilougue was so heartbreaking. More than 5 ⭐️'s! Yes, there is spice, but it's the storyline that makes this a must-read! O.D Emma you did a phenomenal job! This read deserves a standing ovation! Thank you for including the domestic and suicidal/crisis hotline.
I've read some dark reads that beautifully broke me, but Somewhere in the Dark left me speechless!
Nova was raised in a household with domestic violence and an alcoholic father. Her mother never chose to leave and Nova had a hard time trying to comprehend why. She left home, homeless for a year from being kicked out and never wanted to return. She became suicidal and when she tried to unalive herself, thats when she returned home.
Saint has been her bestfriend since childhood. When she left he tried to hate her buy couldn't. Even though he had a girlfriend, Abby, he always wanted to be with Nova,his true love.
His bestfriend Luke is a drug dealer and the town is having issues with over dosing. Their other friend is Jackson. They are like a small family. Saint and Nova finally get together trying to have their happy ending.
Nova and Saint has their demons that they fight everyday. Nova can't help herself from hearing the voices telling her she doesn't deserve happiness. She is always waiting for destruction.
This read destroyed me, leaving me speechless. The twist of learning Saint's demons and the epilougue was so heartbreaking. More than 5 ⭐️'s! Yes, there is spice, but it's the storyline that makes this a must-read! O.D Emma you did a phenomenal job! This read deserves a standing ovation! Thank you for including the domestic and suicidal/crisis hotline.
January 18, 2026
A book that held me through the connections
What happens when a book, another world intertwines in places of your life that it literally takes your breath away and leaves you feeling speechless. Feeling that sting of pain within the moments you scream within your head “please let this happy moment last” or every “please no!!”. That’s me. That’s me wanting to hold Nova during the toughest moments and celebrate her during that happiest because I get it. I get her in more ways just from my own personal POV and whoever reads this review I can say you will too!! This world has awareness that touched my life within myself but also with those I love the most. I’m still reading but thank you OD Emma!! You are a precious soul that words cannot describe how amazing you are, your magick, your worlds to not only connect but hold me as well as may others too. Well, this book, this world holds so much power within awareness that needs to be read and screamed so loud so others will know Somewhere In The Dark by O. D Emma. I cannot put into words exactly what I want to say without giving anything away but if you want a powerful read one that might help you or someone you love; read this book and spread awareness of this book. Because this book may save yours or someone’s life!!
What happens when a book, another world intertwines in places of your life that it literally takes your breath away and leaves you feeling speechless. Feeling that sting of pain within the moments you scream within your head “please let this happy moment last” or every “please no!!”. That’s me. That’s me wanting to hold Nova during the toughest moments and celebrate her during that happiest because I get it. I get her in more ways just from my own personal POV and whoever reads this review I can say you will too!! This world has awareness that touched my life within myself but also with those I love the most. I’m still reading but thank you OD Emma!! You are a precious soul that words cannot describe how amazing you are, your magick, your worlds to not only connect but hold me as well as may others too. Well, this book, this world holds so much power within awareness that needs to be read and screamed so loud so others will know Somewhere In The Dark by O. D Emma. I cannot put into words exactly what I want to say without giving anything away but if you want a powerful read one that might help you or someone you love; read this book and spread awareness of this book. Because this book may save yours or someone’s life!!
November 6, 2025
✨️ARC Review✨️
♾️/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm a mess. Completely and utterly sobbing over this book. My Sweet girl, Nova. She just wanted to be loved and feel wanted. She's been trying so hard to keep it together but life got too hard for her and she needed an escape. I don't think I've ever related to a character more, between her mind telling her she's basically worthless to wanting her happily ever after. She just wanted her Daddy to hold her and tell her everything's gonna be alright.
Saint, Luke, Jackson and Abby were pretty much her found family. Not only was there an instant connection between Nova and the four others, they saved her from herself. She finally had people she could call hers with a bond like no other.
The topics of overdosing and addiction quite literally gutted me because that's something I have dealt with in my life. Sometimes, even after you try again and again to get help, the battles consume you and you're holding onto that last thread of hope just struggling to stay afloat. This book is raw and real and definitely shows the story of how one deals with addiction, bad thoughts and attempts. I will be carrying Nova's story in my heart forever. I think we all have a little bit of SuperNova in us that's waiting to be set free.
♾️/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm a mess. Completely and utterly sobbing over this book. My Sweet girl, Nova. She just wanted to be loved and feel wanted. She's been trying so hard to keep it together but life got too hard for her and she needed an escape. I don't think I've ever related to a character more, between her mind telling her she's basically worthless to wanting her happily ever after. She just wanted her Daddy to hold her and tell her everything's gonna be alright.
Saint, Luke, Jackson and Abby were pretty much her found family. Not only was there an instant connection between Nova and the four others, they saved her from herself. She finally had people she could call hers with a bond like no other.
The topics of overdosing and addiction quite literally gutted me because that's something I have dealt with in my life. Sometimes, even after you try again and again to get help, the battles consume you and you're holding onto that last thread of hope just struggling to stay afloat. This book is raw and real and definitely shows the story of how one deals with addiction, bad thoughts and attempts. I will be carrying Nova's story in my heart forever. I think we all have a little bit of SuperNova in us that's waiting to be set free.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book shattered me. I was sobbing in bed by the end of it. This book hurt me, it took a piece of me. This book made me feel seen, made me feel heard. Even as I try to tell you about Somewhere in the Dark, it brings tears to my eyes because of the huge emotional impact it had on me.
I often see pieces of myself in a lot of fmc's but the connection I had and felt with Nova was insanely strong, but I guess trauma will do that to you.
Somewhere in the Dark is a heartbreakingly beautiful story of friends to enemies to lovers. This book tells a tale of childhood best friends overcoming their traumas, so they can build a new life together.
Somewhere in the Dark is story of a broken girl with mental health issues who, despite her past or what's going on in her head, the mmc still loves her so deeply. This book serves as a reminder that no matter what demons you have faced or are still facing, you deserve love and your person is out there - whether you believe it in the moment or not.
Saint holds a special place in my heart and he always will.
O.D. Emma wrote a haunting romantic tragedy, and I will thank her everyday for writing this story and sharing it with us, no matter how much it made me cry. Thank you for healing a little piece of me.
I often see pieces of myself in a lot of fmc's but the connection I had and felt with Nova was insanely strong, but I guess trauma will do that to you.
Somewhere in the Dark is a heartbreakingly beautiful story of friends to enemies to lovers. This book tells a tale of childhood best friends overcoming their traumas, so they can build a new life together.
Somewhere in the Dark is story of a broken girl with mental health issues who, despite her past or what's going on in her head, the mmc still loves her so deeply. This book serves as a reminder that no matter what demons you have faced or are still facing, you deserve love and your person is out there - whether you believe it in the moment or not.
Saint holds a special place in my heart and he always will.
O.D. Emma wrote a haunting romantic tragedy, and I will thank her everyday for writing this story and sharing it with us, no matter how much it made me cry. Thank you for healing a little piece of me.
January 18, 2026
“Somewhere in the dark where I can be his, even if only for a little while.”
My heart…consider it completely shattered!
This story was so much more than just words on paper. 📝 it reached out into the abyss and stole my heart, making me fall in love with the characters. I instantly felt a pull towards Nova. She just wanted to be loved by the ones who are supposed to love & nurture you, no matter what.
And then there’s Saint. The man who hasn’t been the same since Nova left town. Now she’s back and all of the long lost feeling were actually never lost. They were just pushed down, & now they’re flooding back. He’s supposed to be her fairytale ending, & shes his dying star. But do fairytales actually ever have a happy ending? ❤️🩹
O.D Emma pulled me in head first with this one, & left me with my jaw & my tears on the floor. Grab your tissues and get ready for to read a beautifully tragic love story with a hint of substance abuse and parental neglect.
*read the TW before starting, your mental health matters!*🖤
“I promise Nova, I’ll search for you. I’ll give you your fairytale ending, even if that means I have to be the boy who was raised by trolls.”
My heart…consider it completely shattered!
This story was so much more than just words on paper. 📝 it reached out into the abyss and stole my heart, making me fall in love with the characters. I instantly felt a pull towards Nova. She just wanted to be loved by the ones who are supposed to love & nurture you, no matter what.
And then there’s Saint. The man who hasn’t been the same since Nova left town. Now she’s back and all of the long lost feeling were actually never lost. They were just pushed down, & now they’re flooding back. He’s supposed to be her fairytale ending, & shes his dying star. But do fairytales actually ever have a happy ending? ❤️🩹
O.D Emma pulled me in head first with this one, & left me with my jaw & my tears on the floor. Grab your tissues and get ready for to read a beautifully tragic love story with a hint of substance abuse and parental neglect.
*read the TW before starting, your mental health matters!*🖤
“I promise Nova, I’ll search for you. I’ll give you your fairytale ending, even if that means I have to be the boy who was raised by trolls.”
November 8, 2025
Somewhere in the Dark by O.D. Emma isn’t just a story to be read.
it’s an emotional autopsy. Every page peels back another layer of pain, love, and survival until you’re left raw because it’s so real so human.
The writing is haunting and intimate, the kind that crawls into your chest and refuses to leave. Watching the FMC claw her way through grief and fear, finding slivers of strength in places she thought were long dead, was both beautiful and agonizing. Her growth felt so real, so earned, that you can’t help but ache with her.
And then that ending. I swear, O.D. Emma reached into my chest and shattered something I didn’t know could still break. It’s devastating in the most human way. No neat resolutions, no softened edges, just truth that cuts and lingers. I finished this book feeling hollowed out, ruined, and somehow grateful for the ache it left behind. I’ll be curled in fetal position for a while I so I can process this read over and over.
Definitely check trigger warning before diving in.
it’s an emotional autopsy. Every page peels back another layer of pain, love, and survival until you’re left raw because it’s so real so human.
The writing is haunting and intimate, the kind that crawls into your chest and refuses to leave. Watching the FMC claw her way through grief and fear, finding slivers of strength in places she thought were long dead, was both beautiful and agonizing. Her growth felt so real, so earned, that you can’t help but ache with her.
And then that ending. I swear, O.D. Emma reached into my chest and shattered something I didn’t know could still break. It’s devastating in the most human way. No neat resolutions, no softened edges, just truth that cuts and lingers. I finished this book feeling hollowed out, ruined, and somehow grateful for the ache it left behind. I’ll be curled in fetal position for a while I so I can process this read over and over.
Definitely check trigger warning before diving in.
January 6, 2026
𝓲 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓽𝓸𝓸 𝓶𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓫𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 💫
this was the first book i read in a month and my god.. i was in tears when i finished. this one got me good. dare i say it has pulled me out of my slump?
OD EMMA come to the front of the class now. cause how dare you 🫴🏻😭 my heart hurts. i read this book in a few hours. i was hooked. the topics and themes in this book are tough though. it’s not a light book, but it’s a very real one.
the last chapter broke me but the epilogue made me feel like i was stabbed in the chest. i mean tears were all over my kindle as i was trying to finish reading it. 😩
somewhere in the dark is just a beautiful yet devastating book. i genuinely don’t know what to say without spoilers. but the trio main characters are so so loved. saint, luke, and nova 🫀 have my heart!! i also loved the side characters. everyone played their part in the story so well. everyone was needed. but… not everyone was loved.. iykyk. the plot was so good and well written and the spice was great too. i will definitely recommend this one.
this was the first book i read in a month and my god.. i was in tears when i finished. this one got me good. dare i say it has pulled me out of my slump?
OD EMMA come to the front of the class now. cause how dare you 🫴🏻😭 my heart hurts. i read this book in a few hours. i was hooked. the topics and themes in this book are tough though. it’s not a light book, but it’s a very real one.
the last chapter broke me but the epilogue made me feel like i was stabbed in the chest. i mean tears were all over my kindle as i was trying to finish reading it. 😩
somewhere in the dark is just a beautiful yet devastating book. i genuinely don’t know what to say without spoilers. but the trio main characters are so so loved. saint, luke, and nova 🫀 have my heart!! i also loved the side characters. everyone played their part in the story so well. everyone was needed. but… not everyone was loved.. iykyk. the plot was so good and well written and the spice was great too. i will definitely recommend this one.
January 9, 2026
this was my first book from O.D Emma and it won’t be the last! this book and the characters have my heart. Nova, Saint, Luke, Jackson and Abby, i love y’all 🫶🏻 this story is so raw, real, heart breaking. there’s so much pain, trauma but also healing in some ways. i love the found family, they deserve all the love 🥹 the ending really ripped my heart out, i don’t think i stopped crying until i finished it..and the stared at my ceiling. really i was emotional throughout the entire book bc i relate to Nova in a lot of ways and my heart hurt for this sweet bby 🫂 i love a good beautiful tragedy love story and this one was incredible 🖤
︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶
two of my fav quotes from the book:
“In some way, our souls have always been tied to one another, destined to entangle.”
“I had spent my entire life fighting to be worthy of love, and here he is, handing it to me so freely. Saint does nothing but prove that while I might be broken to others, I’m perfect for him. All my jagged edges match his so seamlessly.”
︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶
two of my fav quotes from the book:
“In some way, our souls have always been tied to one another, destined to entangle.”
“I had spent my entire life fighting to be worthy of love, and here he is, handing it to me so freely. Saint does nothing but prove that while I might be broken to others, I’m perfect for him. All my jagged edges match his so seamlessly.”
November 1, 2025
Yall. This book broke my heart so much more than anything I've ever read. When O.D Emma said this is a Romantic Tragedy, she meant it. I cried big slow tears throughout the whole book almost, then the last few chapters released the floodgates. I'm still not over it, if I see anyone from the team posting about it I get emotional again 😭 I loved Nova, Saint, and their friend group SO much.
Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully written and a very beautiful story. It has some very happy moments too, but it's very dark, very raw, and deals with addiction, and domestic abuse. So definitely check the triggers 🖤
"I wouldn’t tell her about how desperate I am to die. How the only reason I’m still alive is to keep those, who are the reason I want to kill myself, happy."
As someone who has been suicidal many times starting in my teens, I felt this deep in my soul. 🖤💜
*I received this ARC as part of Olivias team and I'm voluntarily written this review*
Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully written and a very beautiful story. It has some very happy moments too, but it's very dark, very raw, and deals with addiction, and domestic abuse. So definitely check the triggers 🖤
"I wouldn’t tell her about how desperate I am to die. How the only reason I’m still alive is to keep those, who are the reason I want to kill myself, happy."
As someone who has been suicidal many times starting in my teens, I felt this deep in my soul. 🖤💜
*I received this ARC as part of Olivias team and I'm voluntarily written this review*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Note to self: don’t read this at 3 am or you’ll wake up with a migraine from the tears and emotional turmoil.
This was my first time reading a novel from O.D. Emma as I’ve been wanting to read her stories for a while now. (The neverending TBR kicks my ass, man) and honestly, I went through a whole rollercoaster of emotions reading through it. I definitely am going to try my best to get my hands on some more of her books.
The start of the book definitely took me a moment to get through. Nova reminded me a lot of my younger self. I had to take a few moments to just breathe and ground myself before starting back up again.
There was so much raw emotion and it all read to me as so human and so imperfect. The story as a whole was perfectly imperfect in terms of the characters and their life. The ending threw me off so much but honestly, the ending was perfect for how the story was moving.
Even during your happiest moments, not everything is happily ever after.
This was my first time reading a novel from O.D. Emma as I’ve been wanting to read her stories for a while now. (The neverending TBR kicks my ass, man) and honestly, I went through a whole rollercoaster of emotions reading through it. I definitely am going to try my best to get my hands on some more of her books.
The start of the book definitely took me a moment to get through. Nova reminded me a lot of my younger self. I had to take a few moments to just breathe and ground myself before starting back up again.
There was so much raw emotion and it all read to me as so human and so imperfect. The story as a whole was perfectly imperfect in terms of the characters and their life. The ending threw me off so much but honestly, the ending was perfect for how the story was moving.
Even during your happiest moments, not everything is happily ever after.
November 22, 2025
Somewhere in the Dark is one of those books that reaches in, grabs your heart, and squeezes without warning. From the atmosphere to the character dynamics to the emotional depth, everything about this story pulled me in.
The connection between the FMC and the pierced, tattooed MMC is absolutely electric. Their journey—from childhood best friends, to enemies, to reluctant, aching lovers—felt so real and so heavy with emotion. Every interaction between them carries history, hurt, and this painfully tender sense of “we were always meant for this.”
This book handles mental health with nuance and care, weaving it seamlessly into the story rather than treating it as an afterthought. The characters’ trauma and growth feel authentic, and the darker tone of the book only makes the softer moments shine brighter.
The connection between the FMC and the pierced, tattooed MMC is absolutely electric. Their journey—from childhood best friends, to enemies, to reluctant, aching lovers—felt so real and so heavy with emotion. Every interaction between them carries history, hurt, and this painfully tender sense of “we were always meant for this.”
This book handles mental health with nuance and care, weaving it seamlessly into the story rather than treating it as an afterthought. The characters’ trauma and growth feel authentic, and the darker tone of the book only makes the softer moments shine brighter.
November 7, 2025
WHEN I TELL YOU I SOBBED, OMFG, I SOBBED.
Okay, bear with me while I try to find words to convey what I’m feeling. Because what I’m feeling is heavy.
5 beautiful fucking stars.
This book has some very heavy topics so please take care of your mental health first and know what you’re going into before going into it.
Nova & Saint were my forever. I absolutely loved them. My heart broke, healed, and broke again.
This book hit home for me in more ways than I’d like to admit, but it was something I didn’t know I needed.
I devoured this book & stayed up till 3am to finish it. I was ugly crying for hours after. I still get so emotional thinking about it.
I’m so happy to have been chosen to read this arc copy. I will cherish and love it for a lifetime 🥹🖤
November 2, 2025
I don’t even know where to start with this one. I’m an absolute wreck right now. This book got under my skin in a way I didn’t expect. I saw so much of myself in Nova, her thoughts, her past, the way she tries to hold it all together. It felt real. Her connection with Saint was rough but raw, the kind that hurts before it heals. Their pasts coming to the surface brought so much pain, but it also made their bond stronger in the end. It’s emotional, heavy, and it lingers long after you’re done. The ending destroyed me. As much as it hurt, this was the book I needed. Everyone needs to read this one.
November 16, 2025
Oh my goodness.... I truly was not ready for this book. None of the trigger warnings could have prepared me for this. I was a sobbing mess AT THE BEGINNING OF THE BOOK! I was sad, angry, distraught, in love, and so many other emotions. This was a true rollercoaster for me. I had to put it down a few times and have my husband cuddle me for a bit before I could go back into it. A truly phenomenal job. Very happy to have gotten to experience it and live in the story you created for a little while. Most certainly an author to follow for me!
November 8, 2025
Talk about a whirlwind of emotions.. we start off straight jump into harsh reality.. old saying it takes a person 7 times to leave an abusive relationship but we never hear about the trauma or issues out does to the children in those relationships… but today you will when reading!! You learn the consequences for the children and so many others we see so many different sides of battles of so many forms! As always CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!!!!!
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