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You're No Saint, Nick
Welcome to Church and Lakes, North Carolina. Who cares?
One year ago, the love of my life left me. There was no goodbye, no signs anything was wrong. He kissed me goodbye and acted like it was any other day. By that night, he was gone.
It's been a long year… one I’ve spent largely as a recluse. All my friends moved away, and moved on. Meanwhile, I’ve thrown myself into helping care for my younger siblings. But they’re home for the holidays, and looking to pay tribute to the friend we all lost.
It feels good, at first, to reconnect with friends who used to mean everything to us… until things get out of hand, and one brutal night leads to discovering a truth that some people would rather stay buried.
Justice must be served- for what happened a year ago, for what happened when the truth came out, and for what happened long before the rest of it.
Welcome to Church and Lakes. Whatever the population is, it's about to get a bit lighter.
You’re No Saint, Nick Is, first and foremost, a horror story. While there is a romantic thread, it is not a romance and should not be read as such. There is an unconventional happily ever after, but this book is not intended for all readers. Please heed the content warnings.
One year ago, the love of my life left me. There was no goodbye, no signs anything was wrong. He kissed me goodbye and acted like it was any other day. By that night, he was gone.
It's been a long year… one I’ve spent largely as a recluse. All my friends moved away, and moved on. Meanwhile, I’ve thrown myself into helping care for my younger siblings. But they’re home for the holidays, and looking to pay tribute to the friend we all lost.
It feels good, at first, to reconnect with friends who used to mean everything to us… until things get out of hand, and one brutal night leads to discovering a truth that some people would rather stay buried.
Justice must be served- for what happened a year ago, for what happened when the truth came out, and for what happened long before the rest of it.
Welcome to Church and Lakes. Whatever the population is, it's about to get a bit lighter.
You’re No Saint, Nick Is, first and foremost, a horror story. While there is a romantic thread, it is not a romance and should not be read as such. There is an unconventional happily ever after, but this book is not intended for all readers. Please heed the content warnings.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2025
3 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
December 20, 2025
Revenge Is a Dish Best Served at Christmas..?
After spending a year mourning the loss of her boyfriend Nikki agrees to go to a memorial for him with some old friends...what happens next is nothing short of twisted with an unhealthy sprinkle of religious trauma for sh!ts n giggles.
I absolutely LOVE tales of revenge! Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned and all that...get it in my eyeballs immediately!
I did get worried around 50% that the author or I (or both) had had a stroke and entered the twilight zone or something...but fear not, things quickly got back on track.
Sometimes, it's just really nice to read about the worst people getting their comeuppance in sick and twisted ways ya know, a proper soothing balm for the soul 🤪
Check TWs before reading as this is an erotic horror novella and will be triggering for some.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
After spending a year mourning the loss of her boyfriend Nikki agrees to go to a memorial for him with some old friends...what happens next is nothing short of twisted with an unhealthy sprinkle of religious trauma for sh!ts n giggles.
I absolutely LOVE tales of revenge! Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned and all that...get it in my eyeballs immediately!
I did get worried around 50% that the author or I (or both) had had a stroke and entered the twilight zone or something...but fear not, things quickly got back on track.
Sometimes, it's just really nice to read about the worst people getting their comeuppance in sick and twisted ways ya know, a proper soothing balm for the soul 🤪
Check TWs before reading as this is an erotic horror novella and will be triggering for some.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
January 14, 2026
You’re No Saint, Nick!
Is an extremely dark erotic horror with an unconventional HEA.
Carly Claire’s dark books challenge you and bring you into the dark side of erotic horror. Pitch Black.
Strong FMC characters, deep religious trauma and payback is a b*tch, are very strong themes in this book. There are multiple triggers and themes in this book, tread cautiously and always take care of your mental health first.
I think this book was well written and the story was devastating, depraved and empowering. Nikki takes back her control and her power, and heals a part of her that needed to be healed.
Keywords: religious trauma, dark romance, erotic horror, unconventional HEA, strong fmc, triggers galore, Carly Claire
Is an extremely dark erotic horror with an unconventional HEA.
Carly Claire’s dark books challenge you and bring you into the dark side of erotic horror. Pitch Black.
Strong FMC characters, deep religious trauma and payback is a b*tch, are very strong themes in this book. There are multiple triggers and themes in this book, tread cautiously and always take care of your mental health first.
I think this book was well written and the story was devastating, depraved and empowering. Nikki takes back her control and her power, and heals a part of her that needed to be healed.
Keywords: religious trauma, dark romance, erotic horror, unconventional HEA, strong fmc, triggers galore, Carly Claire
January 12, 2026
yeeesss Nikki!!!! she was THAT girl!!! I loved this one!!! Carly is amazing at her novellas!! byyeeee Nick
January 15, 2026
Gotta love a good revenge story inspired by feminine rage! This novella like Carly Claire’s Halloween “Are You Scared Krowe?” novella was a hauntingly good time, for those of us who enjoy DARK romance. I am also not saying dark as in some light BDSM or bullying. Like with all of Carly Claire’s books review the trigger warnings before jumping in. But if you are like me and don’t have any triggers then you will enjoy this short read with a Xmas spin. It really got me into the holiday spirit, that spirit being dark and depraved, but the spirit nonetheless.
January 15, 2026
ARCs are my fav but Carly just gets the unhinged side of my brain. Nick and friends def got what they deserved, and this sweet Snow Angel got her happy ever after. Granted there was a little hickup and her body may be taking a long swim nap. But really you dont need a body for revenge okay? You cant really expect Santa to come when you've been naughty so Nikki delivered the Cole 😉
She deserved the happy ever after, and once she got her Noah back she was able to do just that.
She deserved the happy ever after, and once she got her Noah back she was able to do just that.
December 22, 2025
I think I’ve just stumbled upon a new favorite genre and trope! I’m all for erotic horror with female rage! 😭 This was definitely a self-discovery for me, and I’m so grateful my friends encouraged me to apply for this arc. I nearly threw my phone out of frustration more times than I can count. I wanted to scream out loud, but I couldn’t because people were sleeping. I wanted to rage hard on behalf of the Nikki. I had the privilege of buddy reading with my friend, and I had to blow her up because I couldn’t release my frustration.
I had such a great time with this! I’ve realized that if I get some kind of justice for the awful things I’ve seen (since the authors are making me guilty by association through reading lol), I can deal with the gore and other warnings.
This book is definitely not a cozy, fluffy read, and it’s true that Nick isn’t a saint. I’ve had to say “f*** you” quite a few times while reading, and since I couldn’t verbally crash out, I made notes of it throughout the book.
I feel very satisfied that I am no longer an assessory by witness (all this is in jest of course) to redrum (read backwards and thank you Chiara for this way of saying it❤️🤣) and other criminal activities.
I received this book as an ARC. All my thoughts are my own!
I had such a great time with this! I’ve realized that if I get some kind of justice for the awful things I’ve seen (since the authors are making me guilty by association through reading lol), I can deal with the gore and other warnings.
This book is definitely not a cozy, fluffy read, and it’s true that Nick isn’t a saint. I’ve had to say “f*** you” quite a few times while reading, and since I couldn’t verbally crash out, I made notes of it throughout the book.
I feel very satisfied that I am no longer an assessory by witness (all this is in jest of course) to redrum (read backwards and thank you Chiara for this way of saying it❤️🤣) and other criminal activities.
I received this book as an ARC. All my thoughts are my own!
January 10, 2026
Definitely on the darker side of a seasonal read -- which we were absolutely warned about -- but a VERY good read, nonetheless! (Make sure you read those TWs!!!)
In the town of Church and Lakes, North Carolina, something dark is already there... Something so dark that I'm shocked that Krampus himself didn't show up! If I'm being honest, I think he'd be a little scared to XD
Carly takes us through one heck of a wild tale. I knew going in that there was going to be a serious twist during the course of this book, but MAN, she still left me with some whiplash!!
Nikki hasn't had the easiest life. While she's got a loving family, she is still locked in limbo after losing someone was near and dear to her heart. When we meet her, things take an EXTREME turn.
That traumatic experience encourages Nikki to reach into that fiery rage and transform herself into a being that is determined to make things right, no matter what it takes.
I was literally on the edge of my seat the whole time, rooting for Nikki. I could NOT put this book down and I am DEFINITELY looking forward to getting a paperback. Gotta have some darker reads for the season, too! ;)
Buckle up, y'all. It is going to be one WILD ride.
(OBVIOUSLY, I recommend this book. Make sure you check those TWs, though!)
In the town of Church and Lakes, North Carolina, something dark is already there... Something so dark that I'm shocked that Krampus himself didn't show up! If I'm being honest, I think he'd be a little scared to XD
Carly takes us through one heck of a wild tale. I knew going in that there was going to be a serious twist during the course of this book, but MAN, she still left me with some whiplash!!
Nikki hasn't had the easiest life. While she's got a loving family, she is still locked in limbo after losing someone was near and dear to her heart. When we meet her, things take an EXTREME turn.
That traumatic experience encourages Nikki to reach into that fiery rage and transform herself into a being that is determined to make things right, no matter what it takes.
I was literally on the edge of my seat the whole time, rooting for Nikki. I could NOT put this book down and I am DEFINITELY looking forward to getting a paperback. Gotta have some darker reads for the season, too! ;)
Buckle up, y'all. It is going to be one WILD ride.
(OBVIOUSLY, I recommend this book. Make sure you check those TWs, though!)
January 16, 2026
At first, I was not liking this book. The beginning was hard to stomach, and this is from someone that does not really have any trigger warning. However, it was just hard to read so vividly what someone would go through in that situation. Terrible. So that was really hard. But it was necessary for the story, so I understand.
But then, after it's over, we get to the GOOD stuff! Because now you have pissed her off, and now she is going to get revenge. If you like unhinged female rage un-aliveing, then this is the book for you! It was glorious to read how she enacted her revenge on her perpetrators. The best line in the whole book is "I'm not mental, I'm MAD!". Ha!!!
Ok, so let me synopsis for you. Our FMC, Nikki is invited to a memorial for her boyfriend who committed suicide the year before. A few friends are getting together to remember him, so she goes and reminisces. One of the friends is her childhood best friend, Nick. Eggnog is drank, things happen and Nikki dies accidently (*allegedly). So now, Nikki is a ghost and woe unto you!
This book was great, but PLEASE read your trigger warnings kids! 4.3 stars.
But then, after it's over, we get to the GOOD stuff! Because now you have pissed her off, and now she is going to get revenge. If you like unhinged female rage un-aliveing, then this is the book for you! It was glorious to read how she enacted her revenge on her perpetrators. The best line in the whole book is "I'm not mental, I'm MAD!". Ha!!!
Ok, so let me synopsis for you. Our FMC, Nikki is invited to a memorial for her boyfriend who committed suicide the year before. A few friends are getting together to remember him, so she goes and reminisces. One of the friends is her childhood best friend, Nick. Eggnog is drank, things happen and Nikki dies accidently (*allegedly). So now, Nikki is a ghost and woe unto you!
This book was great, but PLEASE read your trigger warnings kids! 4.3 stars.
December 16, 2025
You’re No Saint, Nick is not here to comfort you. It’s here to grab you by the throat, drag you into the snow, and make you sit with the ugly truth about grief, betrayal, and monsters who hide in plain sight.
Set in a deeply religious, snow-choked small town, this Christmas novella follows Nikki as she attends a private memorial for her late boyfriend — a night meant for closure that quickly curdles into something deeply wrong. What starts as nostalgia and shared mourning slowly tightens into dread, and the tension is masterfully done. You feel it before you fully understand it.
This book leans hard into horror, not romance, and that choice is exactly what makes it work. Without spoiling the turn, I’ll say this: the rage is earned, the shift is cathartic, and the payoff is savage. If you love stories that reclaim power through blood, fire, and moral ruin, this delivers in spades. It doesn’t sanitize trauma, and it doesn’t offer forgiveness where it isn’t deserved.
Never felt that revenge tasted better!
Set in a deeply religious, snow-choked small town, this Christmas novella follows Nikki as she attends a private memorial for her late boyfriend — a night meant for closure that quickly curdles into something deeply wrong. What starts as nostalgia and shared mourning slowly tightens into dread, and the tension is masterfully done. You feel it before you fully understand it.
This book leans hard into horror, not romance, and that choice is exactly what makes it work. Without spoiling the turn, I’ll say this: the rage is earned, the shift is cathartic, and the payoff is savage. If you love stories that reclaim power through blood, fire, and moral ruin, this delivers in spades. It doesn’t sanitize trauma, and it doesn’t offer forgiveness where it isn’t deserved.
Never felt that revenge tasted better!
December 18, 2025
🌟🌟ARC review🌟🌟
You're no saint, Nick had me hooked from the first line. Set in the small town of Church and Lakes, North Carolina, it’s a story that blends heartbreak, mystery, and a slow-burning tension that keeps you turning pages. The FMC journey through grief, isolation, and responsibility for her younger siblings feels raw and real, and the way the story explores friendships rekindled during the holidays adds an emotional layer that hits hard.
Just when you think you’ve figured out the dynamics, the plot twists—especially the brutal night and the buried truths—throw you for a loop. Justice, revenge, and secrets are all woven together beautifully, making the story gripping, dark, and satisfying.
It’s a mix of heartache, suspense, and a touch of small-town intrigue that I didn’t want to put down. The ending left me thinking about the cost of hidden truths and the resilience it takes to face them. A strong recommendation for fans of dark contemporary fiction with a hint of mystery.
You're no saint, Nick had me hooked from the first line. Set in the small town of Church and Lakes, North Carolina, it’s a story that blends heartbreak, mystery, and a slow-burning tension that keeps you turning pages. The FMC journey through grief, isolation, and responsibility for her younger siblings feels raw and real, and the way the story explores friendships rekindled during the holidays adds an emotional layer that hits hard.
Just when you think you’ve figured out the dynamics, the plot twists—especially the brutal night and the buried truths—throw you for a loop. Justice, revenge, and secrets are all woven together beautifully, making the story gripping, dark, and satisfying.
It’s a mix of heartache, suspense, and a touch of small-town intrigue that I didn’t want to put down. The ending left me thinking about the cost of hidden truths and the resilience it takes to face them. A strong recommendation for fans of dark contemporary fiction with a hint of mystery.
December 27, 2025
🖤 ARC Review 🖤
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, and it genuinely left me shaken.
This is not a soft story about grief. It follows Nikki, a woman consumed by the loss of her boyfriend, barely holding herself together. When she reunites with old friends to honour his memory, what unfolds is brutal, unhinged and deeply disturbing — a moment that shatters everything she thought she knew.
From that point on, the story plunges into darkness. Grief twists into rage, and Nikki transforms into someone driven by revenge at any cost. The emotional intensity is raw, the choices are ruthless and the consequences are chilling.
This was my first book by this author, and it absolutely won’t be my last. The writing is bold, unapologetically dark and infused with spice that only heightens the tension.
⚠️ Please read the trigger warnings before starting — this book does not hold back.
If you enjoy dark romance that pushes boundaries and leaves you unsettled long after the final page this one is definitely worth picking up.
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book, and it genuinely left me shaken.
This is not a soft story about grief. It follows Nikki, a woman consumed by the loss of her boyfriend, barely holding herself together. When she reunites with old friends to honour his memory, what unfolds is brutal, unhinged and deeply disturbing — a moment that shatters everything she thought she knew.
From that point on, the story plunges into darkness. Grief twists into rage, and Nikki transforms into someone driven by revenge at any cost. The emotional intensity is raw, the choices are ruthless and the consequences are chilling.
This was my first book by this author, and it absolutely won’t be my last. The writing is bold, unapologetically dark and infused with spice that only heightens the tension.
⚠️ Please read the trigger warnings before starting — this book does not hold back.
If you enjoy dark romance that pushes boundaries and leaves you unsettled long after the final page this one is definitely worth picking up.
December 16, 2025
It’s not a fluffy Christmas read 🤭
Nikki, has spent a year trying to pull herself together. Tonight, she ventures out for the first time to a memorial with friends she thought she’d lost. Nick, collects her and takes her to the church they all attend though Nick not so much as she hasn’t seen him for a while, even though they used to be childhood friends. They meet up with four others, a group that they used to spend time with, they drink, they reminisce but the night doesn’t end the way Nikki thought it would!!!
ι нανє qυєѕтισηѕ, вυт яιgнт ησω, тнєу'яє αℓℓ ѕтυ¢к ση тнє тιρ σƒ му тσηgυє, αη∂ ηι¢к ιѕ נυѕт ωαт¢нιηg мє.
If you want a dark read with no remorse this is it. I really enjoyed this read, it’s got a lot happening within its pages and Carly has a way of writing that ensures you don’t miss out 👀 For me it was hauntingly depraved. I can’t possibly give you anymore without spoiling it 😉 Do read the trigger warnings ‼️
Nikki, has spent a year trying to pull herself together. Tonight, she ventures out for the first time to a memorial with friends she thought she’d lost. Nick, collects her and takes her to the church they all attend though Nick not so much as she hasn’t seen him for a while, even though they used to be childhood friends. They meet up with four others, a group that they used to spend time with, they drink, they reminisce but the night doesn’t end the way Nikki thought it would!!!
ι нανє qυєѕтισηѕ, вυт яιgнт ησω, тнєу'яє αℓℓ ѕтυ¢к ση тнє тιρ σƒ му тσηgυє, αη∂ ηι¢к ιѕ נυѕт ωαт¢нιηg мє.
If you want a dark read with no remorse this is it. I really enjoyed this read, it’s got a lot happening within its pages and Carly has a way of writing that ensures you don’t miss out 👀 For me it was hauntingly depraved. I can’t possibly give you anymore without spoiling it 😉 Do read the trigger warnings ‼️
December 20, 2025
You're No Saint, Nick by Carly Claire. First of all Carly girl, girl you had me going through it i. This book. I have never cheered so hard for Revenge in my entire life for characters in a book .I did not see where this was going nor know where this was going. I enjoyed the short ride however the disclaimer needed a disclaimer. This was a fusion of horror, dark romance, revenge romance, twisted holiday romance, and drama. It had everything in it. It was the very flip side of what you normally see as a happy holiday book. It had a ton of religious references in it as well.
Five stars out of five stars I like Claire's quirky writing style. I understood why Nikki and Noah did what they did and how Nick and friends just fell off the rails. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and definitely will be reading more especially if there are more writing styles like this. This made me a horror genre fan.
Five stars out of five stars I like Claire's quirky writing style. I understood why Nikki and Noah did what they did and how Nick and friends just fell off the rails. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and definitely will be reading more especially if there are more writing styles like this. This made me a horror genre fan.
December 21, 2025
Holiday Horror With A LOT of Bite!
OMG besties… "You’re No Saint, Nick" is... DARK dark. It's less romance and more holiday horror soaked in rage, grief, and bloody justice. Nikki’s pain is raw and relentless, and watching the truth unravel in Church and Lakes, NC had me glued to the page.
Let’s talk MMCs. Noah? A precious cinnamon roll wrapped in trauma. That snow globe scene absolutely wrecked me 🖤. Nick, however? D€ath. A HORRIBLE one. There has never been a man I wanted to personally yeet into the sun more. I DESPISED him with my whole chest.
This novella is brutal, twisted, spicy in the most uncomfortable way, and wildly unforgettable. The religious trauma, revenge, and unconventional HEA hit hard. Read the TWs, Besties... this is NOT for the faint of heart.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
OMG besties… "You’re No Saint, Nick" is... DARK dark. It's less romance and more holiday horror soaked in rage, grief, and bloody justice. Nikki’s pain is raw and relentless, and watching the truth unravel in Church and Lakes, NC had me glued to the page.
Let’s talk MMCs. Noah? A precious cinnamon roll wrapped in trauma. That snow globe scene absolutely wrecked me 🖤. Nick, however? D€ath. A HORRIBLE one. There has never been a man I wanted to personally yeet into the sun more. I DESPISED him with my whole chest.
This novella is brutal, twisted, spicy in the most uncomfortable way, and wildly unforgettable. The religious trauma, revenge, and unconventional HEA hit hard. Read the TWs, Besties... this is NOT for the faint of heart.
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
December 28, 2025
"We've been connected through life and death. Our souls are twined in every iteration they exist in."
The only good is the relationship between Nikki and Noah. Because what occurs between Nick and his friends with Nikki is horrific! The only thing, and I do mean ONLY thing, that will make me feel ok with what happened is revenge. Nick and his deranged friends need to suffer slowly and painfully! Even still there will never be peace and happiness for Nikki and Noah. Mainly because Nick stole that from them.
I did like the playing around with the word coal/Cole. Don't go into this novella thinking it's romantic. It's definitely more horror. This novella does have negative religious overtones. To me, the way Nikki felt was justified because, clearly, Nick is no Saint! Nick and others are the exact opposites of Saints. Keep in mind this novella is fiction.
Thanks to Carly Claire for the chance to read this ARC.
The only good is the relationship between Nikki and Noah. Because what occurs between Nick and his friends with Nikki is horrific! The only thing, and I do mean ONLY thing, that will make me feel ok with what happened is revenge. Nick and his deranged friends need to suffer slowly and painfully! Even still there will never be peace and happiness for Nikki and Noah. Mainly because Nick stole that from them.
I did like the playing around with the word coal/Cole. Don't go into this novella thinking it's romantic. It's definitely more horror. This novella does have negative religious overtones. To me, the way Nikki felt was justified because, clearly, Nick is no Saint! Nick and others are the exact opposites of Saints. Keep in mind this novella is fiction.
Thanks to Carly Claire for the chance to read this ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
This story is book 2 in a series (but perfectly fine as a standalone) and a very, very dark erotic horror-romance. Please check triggers before reading - there are plenty.
If you read Are You Scared, Krowe? by this author, the idea is much the same, but while Krowe was set at Halloween, this is set at Christmas. The atmospheric storytelling is excellent - the author sets the scene very well, and you can just feel the season and the environment of the small town as well as the twistedness of those in the town who take advantage of others.
Nikki's pain, first from losing her love Noah and then from the actions of her supposed friends, is traumatic but motivating - she turns her trauma into revenge, and the revenge arc is fabulous. The love between her and Noah and the mixture of complex emotions is beautiful to read, even if the story is super dark. And the element of religious trauma brought something extra to this story. I loved it.
If you read Are You Scared, Krowe? by this author, the idea is much the same, but while Krowe was set at Halloween, this is set at Christmas. The atmospheric storytelling is excellent - the author sets the scene very well, and you can just feel the season and the environment of the small town as well as the twistedness of those in the town who take advantage of others.
Nikki's pain, first from losing her love Noah and then from the actions of her supposed friends, is traumatic but motivating - she turns her trauma into revenge, and the revenge arc is fabulous. The love between her and Noah and the mixture of complex emotions is beautiful to read, even if the story is super dark. And the element of religious trauma brought something extra to this story. I loved it.
January 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 stars
🌶🌶 2 chilli peppers (for consensual relationship scenes only — this does not apply to the non-con content)
🖤🖤🖤🖤 4 dark hearts (darkness level)
This was an interesting and engaging read overall. The author’s note immediately hooked me and made me want to continue, which is always a great start. I really enjoyed the Twilight references, they added a fun touch.
The plot twists truly delivered — i was actually caught off guard, not predictable turns. I was especially satisfied with Nikki’s revenge, which felt earned and well-executed
I would recommend this book as a quick-read horror, perfect if you’re looking for something dark and intense that doesn’t drag. However, I strongly recommend checking the trigger warnings first. This book will definitely not be for everyone, even for readers who usually enjoy horror.
Overall, a dark, twisty read that left me satisfied — just be sure you know what you’re getting into.
🌶🌶 2 chilli peppers (for consensual relationship scenes only — this does not apply to the non-con content)
🖤🖤🖤🖤 4 dark hearts (darkness level)
This was an interesting and engaging read overall. The author’s note immediately hooked me and made me want to continue, which is always a great start. I really enjoyed the Twilight references, they added a fun touch.
The plot twists truly delivered — i was actually caught off guard, not predictable turns. I was especially satisfied with Nikki’s revenge, which felt earned and well-executed
I would recommend this book as a quick-read horror, perfect if you’re looking for something dark and intense that doesn’t drag. However, I strongly recommend checking the trigger warnings first. This book will definitely not be for everyone, even for readers who usually enjoy horror.
Overall, a dark, twisty read that left me satisfied — just be sure you know what you’re getting into.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2025
Some books don’t let you read quietly. This one had me rage scrolling, whisper-yelling at my phone, and texting friends like “I AM NOT OKAY???” in all caps. The energy is feral, angry, and deeply satisfying in that way where you feel slightly unhinged but also weirdly healed by the end.
This was my “oh… so this is my thing now” moment with erotic horror + female rage. It’s brutal, uncomfortable, and absolutely not here to hold your hand but that’s exactly why it works. I felt every emotion at max volume: grief, fury, disgust, and then that sharp sense of justice that makes you sit back and exhale like yeah… okay.
Not cozy. Not soft. Not trying to be nice. And honestly? Thank god. The horror hits, the emotions hit harder, and by the end I felt strangely… satisfied. Like the book looked me dead in the eye and said “I saw what you saw too.”
This was my “oh… so this is my thing now” moment with erotic horror + female rage. It’s brutal, uncomfortable, and absolutely not here to hold your hand but that’s exactly why it works. I felt every emotion at max volume: grief, fury, disgust, and then that sharp sense of justice that makes you sit back and exhale like yeah… okay.
Not cozy. Not soft. Not trying to be nice. And honestly? Thank god. The horror hits, the emotions hit harder, and by the end I felt strangely… satisfied. Like the book looked me dead in the eye and said “I saw what you saw too.”
December 17, 2025
Read an ARC copy.
Do read the author's warning and the trigger list! This is a very good book but it’s also very, very dark!
I knew this was more of a horror story when I started reading and I have read other books from this author that I love, so I knew what I got myself into. I was not disappointed! It is gory and brutal in the best way and the twists in the story didn’t feel forced.
I could lie and say I couldn’t put it down and that would be true in one sense, but I needed to take a couple of breaks to do something neutral to cleanse my mind. But that is a me thing and a sign that the book got under my skin.
I loved it! It is well written and makes me uncomfortable in the best way, (that’s a compliment).
Do read the author's warning and the trigger list! This is a very good book but it’s also very, very dark!
I knew this was more of a horror story when I started reading and I have read other books from this author that I love, so I knew what I got myself into. I was not disappointed! It is gory and brutal in the best way and the twists in the story didn’t feel forced.
I could lie and say I couldn’t put it down and that would be true in one sense, but I needed to take a couple of breaks to do something neutral to cleanse my mind. But that is a me thing and a sign that the book got under my skin.
I loved it! It is well written and makes me uncomfortable in the best way, (that’s a compliment).
December 20, 2025
I have so many thoughts about this one.
First of all, I know you should always check every TW listed on every book, right? Well, make sure you definitely do that here, cause just the first chapters are rough... in every sense of the word.
Now, I think I've read so many books where the FMC is mistreated so bad and usually, she has a knight in shinning armor (wheather morally green, grey, black or pitch black) to avenge her. But here, having Nikki getting that revange for herself in the most unhinged way possible? I might be wrong, but God, that felt so good to read.
And eventhough this is NOT a romance in any way, I really enjoyed how Nikki and Noah reconnected, it was such a beautiful way to see the afterlife.
Christmasy, but in a horrific way. Yet, totally worth it.
First of all, I know you should always check every TW listed on every book, right? Well, make sure you definitely do that here, cause just the first chapters are rough... in every sense of the word.
Now, I think I've read so many books where the FMC is mistreated so bad and usually, she has a knight in shinning armor (wheather morally green, grey, black or pitch black) to avenge her. But here, having Nikki getting that revange for herself in the most unhinged way possible? I might be wrong, but God, that felt so good to read.
And eventhough this is NOT a romance in any way, I really enjoyed how Nikki and Noah reconnected, it was such a beautiful way to see the afterlife.
Christmasy, but in a horrific way. Yet, totally worth it.
December 23, 2025
3 ⭐️
2 🌶️
ARC review
This was a very interesting concept for a Holiday Dark Romance novella!!
I went in fairly blind, being a little confused by the tropes list, and not having read the blurb since I signed up for the ARC - but in the end it really did all come together!
I really wasn't sure where things were going, since they progress so quickly in the first couple of chapters. It feels weird saying I "enjoyed" such a messed up story, but the unique concept mixed with Carly Claire's spicy writing and f-ed up mind, brought it all together!!
The Trigger/Content warnings did have me pausing for a moment before diving in - and if you are squeamish by anything in the CW/TW - proceed at your own risk.
2 🌶️
ARC review
This was a very interesting concept for a Holiday Dark Romance novella!!
I went in fairly blind, being a little confused by the tropes list, and not having read the blurb since I signed up for the ARC - but in the end it really did all come together!
I really wasn't sure where things were going, since they progress so quickly in the first couple of chapters. It feels weird saying I "enjoyed" such a messed up story, but the unique concept mixed with Carly Claire's spicy writing and f-ed up mind, brought it all together!!
The Trigger/Content warnings did have me pausing for a moment before diving in - and if you are squeamish by anything in the CW/TW - proceed at your own risk.
December 26, 2025
(In the best way possible)
What in the…?!?!?! What the…?!?!?! Ummm…excuse me…but what did I just read?!?!?!
I knew this was a Christmas erotic horror. That’s why I picked it up.
But did I miss something?!?!?!
Let me go reread the blurb.
Okay, so there was some foreshadowing about how the plot was going to go. But I wasn’t expecting ALL of that.
This one left me stunned and speechless 🤯and I’m here for it!!! It’s dark, depraved, unhinged, full of feminine rage, bloody revenge, and twisted Christmas cheer.
I’m going to leave it at this because you deserve to have a spoiler free experience with this one.
Please, please, please understand that this is a HORROR read. And I’d highly encourage you to check the content warnings.
What in the…?!?!?! What the…?!?!?! Ummm…excuse me…but what did I just read?!?!?!
I knew this was a Christmas erotic horror. That’s why I picked it up.
But did I miss something?!?!?!
Let me go reread the blurb.
Okay, so there was some foreshadowing about how the plot was going to go. But I wasn’t expecting ALL of that.
This one left me stunned and speechless 🤯and I’m here for it!!! It’s dark, depraved, unhinged, full of feminine rage, bloody revenge, and twisted Christmas cheer.
I’m going to leave it at this because you deserve to have a spoiler free experience with this one.
Please, please, please understand that this is a HORROR read. And I’d highly encourage you to check the content warnings.
December 28, 2025
This book was truly outstanding in every aspect. Carly is an exceptional author. It tells the story of Nikki, a woman overwhelmed by the grief of losing her boyfriend, struggling to keep it all together. When she reconnects with old friends to celebrate his memory, what follows is a harrowing, chaotic, and profoundly unsettling experience—one that shatters her understanding of everything. I felt heartbroken for what Nikki endured; she truly deserved a happy ending. Once she reunited with her Noah, she was finally able to find that happiness. If you decide to read this book, be sure to check the trigger warnings—it's definitely not for the faint of heart! Overall, this book was absolutely fantastic!
December 16, 2025
You’re No Saint, Nick by Carly Claire is a dark, moody holiday romance that leans hard into secrets, guilt, and moral ambiguity. The wintery small-town setting and church imagery create an eerie, unsettling atmosphere that never lets up. The badass FMC Nikki is everything! Revenge has never been so sweet! Plus who doesn’t love powerful FMCs anyway. I hate what happened to her and her love Noah. The chemistry between them is intense, the emotional conflict runs deep, and the story isn’t afraid to explore uncomfortable, taboo themes. This is a sharp, haunting read that lingers long after the final page. Make sure to check the trigger warnings though because there are a few heavy hitters.
December 19, 2025
Carly Claire has delivered something truly unique with You're No Saint, Nick. If you are looking for a Christmas story that trades the cheesy tinsel for genuine emotion, spooky suspense, and a love that transcends the grave, this is the book for you.
The atmosphere in this book is impeccable. Set in a small North Carolina town with its own local legends, the story balances the heaviness of grief with the hope of a second chance in a way that really pulls at your heartstrings. The "Ghost Romance" aspect is handled beautifully—it’s poignant, a little heartbreaking, but also filled with the kind of intense connection that makes you root for them against all odds.
The atmosphere in this book is impeccable. Set in a small North Carolina town with its own local legends, the story balances the heaviness of grief with the hope of a second chance in a way that really pulls at your heartstrings. The "Ghost Romance" aspect is handled beautifully—it’s poignant, a little heartbreaking, but also filled with the kind of intense connection that makes you root for them against all odds.
December 24, 2025
You're No Saint, Nick!!!!!!
This was a dark, twisted story full of pain and vengeance. Love Nikki and her vengeful methods but also my heart was hurting for her family. The story is short, but straight to the point, well written, and absolutely captivating. I was gut wrenched for what Nikki went through. The story pulled all the emotions from me.. but then we find out that it goes deeper than the three guys... and my jaw was on the floor. I also think had Noah and Nikki not been killed they would have been a serious power couple. They had such a great deep connection. I loved every moment of this.
This was a dark, twisted story full of pain and vengeance. Love Nikki and her vengeful methods but also my heart was hurting for her family. The story is short, but straight to the point, well written, and absolutely captivating. I was gut wrenched for what Nikki went through. The story pulled all the emotions from me.. but then we find out that it goes deeper than the three guys... and my jaw was on the floor. I also think had Noah and Nikki not been killed they would have been a serious power couple. They had such a great deep connection. I loved every moment of this.
December 27, 2025
ARCish Review:
4/5⭐️, 2.5/5🌶️
-Body Betrayal
-Bloody Revenge
-Love after Deǎth
-First Person POV: Dual
-Forced O’s
This takes unhinged to a whole new level. There is now soft and cozy love. It’s straight to revenge and taking back what she deserves. Nikki didn’t deserve anything that happened to her but i’m very happy with the way her story played out. It was almost sweet in a psychotic way. Carly Claire got everyone ready for the holidays in a completely different way. And for me it was the best. Which may make me sound a little crazy😂😂
Check all the TW’s beforehand!!
Otherwise I recommend!
4/5⭐️, 2.5/5🌶️
-Body Betrayal
-Bloody Revenge
-Love after Deǎth
-First Person POV: Dual
-Forced O’s
This takes unhinged to a whole new level. There is now soft and cozy love. It’s straight to revenge and taking back what she deserves. Nikki didn’t deserve anything that happened to her but i’m very happy with the way her story played out. It was almost sweet in a psychotic way. Carly Claire got everyone ready for the holidays in a completely different way. And for me it was the best. Which may make me sound a little crazy😂😂
Check all the TW’s beforehand!!
Otherwise I recommend!
December 31, 2025
I received a copy in return for my honest review.
Carly has done it again! You’re No Saint, Nick is dark dark—way less romance and way more holiday horror fueled by rage, grief, and brutal justice. Nikki’s pain is intense and unfiltered, and watching everything unravel had me locked in. I didn’t see any of this coming, but I couldn’t put the book down. It’s twisted, uncomfortable, and spicy in the worst-best way possible, and completely unforgettable. The religious trauma, revenge arc, and very unconventional HEA hit hard—so seriously, read the TW’s. This one is not for the faint of heart!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Carly has done it again! You’re No Saint, Nick is dark dark—way less romance and way more holiday horror fueled by rage, grief, and brutal justice. Nikki’s pain is intense and unfiltered, and watching everything unravel had me locked in. I didn’t see any of this coming, but I couldn’t put the book down. It’s twisted, uncomfortable, and spicy in the worst-best way possible, and completely unforgettable. The religious trauma, revenge arc, and very unconventional HEA hit hard—so seriously, read the TW’s. This one is not for the faint of heart!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
December 17, 2025
OKAY so, have you ever seen the movie(s) “I spit on your grave” because this has the same vibe and I absolutely love it. Just add ghosts and Christmas and you’ve got the movie in a small novella.
I absolutely loved this novella. At first it pulled at my heart strings, I lost the love of my life as a teenager so the pain was raw as I read the depression she went through. The fact she got to be with him again, and get the revenge she desperately needed and her man just.. helped and fell in love with her more?
Gah, I could’ve read way more than 150 pages of this book. 10/10 recommend!
I absolutely loved this novella. At first it pulled at my heart strings, I lost the love of my life as a teenager so the pain was raw as I read the depression she went through. The fact she got to be with him again, and get the revenge she desperately needed and her man just.. helped and fell in love with her more?
Gah, I could’ve read way more than 150 pages of this book. 10/10 recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
It was a 3.5⭐️ for me…I wanted to like it more, Nikki getting her revenge, loved that for her, but then I felt like some parts/pov’s were dragged out and just didn’t add much to the story. then there were some things that just weren’t consistent to parts already told and it wasn’t really explained so ended up not making sense to me how some things were possible. But then we get to the big reveal rushed in at the end as to explain why some earlier thing’s happened and then it wraps up in a HEA…I feel like others would really enjoy this one but it was just kinda eh for me
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