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A Hemorrhage of Us
Rayne Dorne has always known she was different. She was never given the chance to consider herself anything else.
From the illness she hides beneath as many layers of clothes as she can, to the way people in Bury watch her like she’s a bad omen, the world has never let her forget it. She wanted to leave that town and its memory of her behind forever.
But her parents’ sudden deaths, and a strange call from her estranged brother, drag her back into the house she swore she’d never set foot in again.
A house that feels alive.
A house that remembers her.
The forest surrounding Bury, Pennsylvania, is haunted, and the whole town knows it. Just like everyone knows, you don’t wander after dark, and you never answer to the sound of your name once the sun goes down.
Hawthorne is one of the many entities that haunt those woods, woven from hunger and the dead of winter, and they seem to know her in ways no one ever has. With their eyes set on Rayne, she’s stepped into a dangerous game, whether she realizes it or not.
Spirits always collect on their debts.
What begins as a haunting becomes an unholy tether, and desire becomes a door.
And the thing that binds them both may be the very thing that destroys them.
A Hemorrhage of Us is a standalone folk-horror romance about grief, anger, and a love so monstrous it bleeds into the world. Perfect for fans of Deathless, Bones and All, and The Bear and the Nightingale
From the illness she hides beneath as many layers of clothes as she can, to the way people in Bury watch her like she’s a bad omen, the world has never let her forget it. She wanted to leave that town and its memory of her behind forever.
But her parents’ sudden deaths, and a strange call from her estranged brother, drag her back into the house she swore she’d never set foot in again.
A house that feels alive.
A house that remembers her.
The forest surrounding Bury, Pennsylvania, is haunted, and the whole town knows it. Just like everyone knows, you don’t wander after dark, and you never answer to the sound of your name once the sun goes down.
Hawthorne is one of the many entities that haunt those woods, woven from hunger and the dead of winter, and they seem to know her in ways no one ever has. With their eyes set on Rayne, she’s stepped into a dangerous game, whether she realizes it or not.
Spirits always collect on their debts.
What begins as a haunting becomes an unholy tether, and desire becomes a door.
And the thing that binds them both may be the very thing that destroys them.
A Hemorrhage of Us is a standalone folk-horror romance about grief, anger, and a love so monstrous it bleeds into the world. Perfect for fans of Deathless, Bones and All, and The Bear and the Nightingale
571 pages, Paperback
Published December 21, 2025
About the author
Roslyn Reed
2 books28 followersRoslyn Reed is an adult horror, romance, and speculative fiction author. Her work centers on character-driven stories, feminine rage, body horror, and the terror of falling in love. There is nothing she loves more than writing about terrible women and the monsters who adore them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 11, 2026
This was a super intense and well done book. Rayne was everything grumpy, traumatized and defensive. I deeply appreciated learning about a new-to-me rare skin condition and the way it impacted how she interacted with the world and the world interacted with her. Hawthorne was absolutely a villainous eldritch horror and I adored them for it. They were who they were and I appreciated the Rayne accepted all parts of them. Hawthorne helped Rayne embrace the feminine rage she’d been pushing down and become more authentically herself. House was an interesting side character that I couldn’t decide if I loved or hated for a lot of the book. The whole story was very much a horror romance. The complexities of interpersonal relationships, human vs eldritch mores, the cold realities of existing in an unforgiving world, were all delved into
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: body gore and horror, dismemberment, violence, blood, torture, murder, frequent mentions of a chronic disorder, emotional and verbal abuse, exploration of implied mental illness (depression, anxiety, CPTSD), memory loss, scenes of mass murder including of children, suicidal ideation, explorations of grief and loss as well as heavy mentions of religion, mentions of racism, bullying, enucleation, emesis, stalking, ostracism, claustrophobic scenario, grief, hunting
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: body gore and horror, dismemberment, violence, blood, torture, murder, frequent mentions of a chronic disorder, emotional and verbal abuse, exploration of implied mental illness (depression, anxiety, CPTSD), memory loss, scenes of mass murder including of children, suicidal ideation, explorations of grief and loss as well as heavy mentions of religion, mentions of racism, bullying, enucleation, emesis, stalking, ostracism, claustrophobic scenario, grief, hunting
April 1, 2026
I had to take a couple of days to process this book after reading it. It has embedded itself within me. There is this feeling that is hard to explain when you come from a family that truly doesn't care about you. There will always be someone saying, "But they're your family," as if that can erase the horrors they inflict. I feel like Rayne, and I would have gotten along smashingly based on similar backgrounds.
I remember when I first saw this book, it was described like, "Neither of these characters is a good person." Who determines what is good? Who determines who is good? Debatably, I do think that a lot of the people who got what was coming to them deserved it. Maybe some of the characters didn't deserve it, but most of them did.
Hawthorne's adoration of Rayne and oranges will live in my heart. I loved that they were always ready to eat any obstacles and that they wouldn't let Rayne diminish herself in their eyes.
This book was a delicious descent into darkness, and the ways in which it can cradle you.
I remember when I first saw this book, it was described like, "Neither of these characters is a good person." Who determines what is good? Who determines who is good? Debatably, I do think that a lot of the people who got what was coming to them deserved it. Maybe some of the characters didn't deserve it, but most of them did.
Hawthorne's adoration of Rayne and oranges will live in my heart. I loved that they were always ready to eat any obstacles and that they wouldn't let Rayne diminish herself in their eyes.
This book was a delicious descent into darkness, and the ways in which it can cradle you.
Read
December 31, 2025The author kindly gave me an advanced copy of the book for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
I’m sad to say that I was not able to get into this book and ultimately stopped reading around a third into it. This book is THICK and I think was trying to be a slow burn but it only came off as slow. There were also a lot of typos, wrong words, and awkward grammatical errors. That obviously can be fixed, and was not why I stopped reading. The plot just never seemed to actually start, instead showing our main character Rayne go to the grocery store multiple times. And the tension between Rayne and Hawthorne seemed forced. They went from wanting to kill Rayne to falling for her in the middle of a chapter.
I just think there needed to be another round of editing before publishing.
I so appreciate the author giving me the opportunity to read this book. I’m so sad that it didn’t work for me.
I’m sad to say that I was not able to get into this book and ultimately stopped reading around a third into it. This book is THICK and I think was trying to be a slow burn but it only came off as slow. There were also a lot of typos, wrong words, and awkward grammatical errors. That obviously can be fixed, and was not why I stopped reading. The plot just never seemed to actually start, instead showing our main character Rayne go to the grocery store multiple times. And the tension between Rayne and Hawthorne seemed forced. They went from wanting to kill Rayne to falling for her in the middle of a chapter.
I just think there needed to be another round of editing before publishing.
I so appreciate the author giving me the opportunity to read this book. I’m so sad that it didn’t work for me.
December 27, 2025
A slow descent into chaos. A thoughtful drowning in prose so decadent it must be broken into tiny pieces.
I’ve followed Roslyn for around two years & this story is what instantly yanked me into her orbit when it was simply a few teaser reels. Oh how the edging made the reward so much more… demented.
This story demands us to face the ugliest parts of ourselves in realization that true love doesn’t always prevail in roses & sunshine. Sometimes true love has claws that rip through the sinew of anyone who dares stand in its way.
I leave you with some of my favorite quotes:
“Eat me. Find the pearl of me and shuck it out.”
“She was hungry and selfish and wanting, but so too was her wolf. They gave as much as they took, but she would take more. She would not allow herself to be sated. She loved them, and she would inflict that love upon them. Her adoration would be nothing less than a plague.”
“I will be the wolf that eats you with care.”
I’ve followed Roslyn for around two years & this story is what instantly yanked me into her orbit when it was simply a few teaser reels. Oh how the edging made the reward so much more… demented.
This story demands us to face the ugliest parts of ourselves in realization that true love doesn’t always prevail in roses & sunshine. Sometimes true love has claws that rip through the sinew of anyone who dares stand in its way.
I leave you with some of my favorite quotes:
“Eat me. Find the pearl of me and shuck it out.”
“She was hungry and selfish and wanting, but so too was her wolf. They gave as much as they took, but she would take more. She would not allow herself to be sated. She loved them, and she would inflict that love upon them. Her adoration would be nothing less than a plague.”
“I will be the wolf that eats you with care.”
April 4, 2026
Moni’s lil’ spoiler free thoughts:
A Hemorrhage of Us by Roslyn Reed
“Do not think that you can dictate my vision of you. I can and do see you, Rayne. I will not allow you to diminish yourself right in front of me. Shrinking is for lesser beings.”
Thoughts: Raw, beautiful, and full of horrors, this story emotionally wrecked me in the best way possible. The two MCs were so tortured and full of emotional rage but never took it out on one another…true love, amiright!? No matter what was thrown at them and what they did…I was left rooting for them till the very end.
Key points: Folk horror romance. Mutual obsession where love is their curse.
Rating: 5⭐️s - highly recommend.
A Hemorrhage of Us by Roslyn Reed
“Do not think that you can dictate my vision of you. I can and do see you, Rayne. I will not allow you to diminish yourself right in front of me. Shrinking is for lesser beings.”
Thoughts: Raw, beautiful, and full of horrors, this story emotionally wrecked me in the best way possible. The two MCs were so tortured and full of emotional rage but never took it out on one another…true love, amiright!? No matter what was thrown at them and what they did…I was left rooting for them till the very end.
Key points: Folk horror romance. Mutual obsession where love is their curse.
Rating: 5⭐️s - highly recommend.
January 29, 2026
I love to see a chronically ill baddie falling in love with a dark entity and getting revenge against those who treated her terribly! Loved this story!!
August 6, 2026
While this book was entirely too long, in my opinion, and could have used some paring down, the story was very interesting and inventive. I never see folk horror romance with a Black FMC (Black/Indigenous in this case). So I love that!
The FMC was complicated...and at times I loved her, attitude and viciousness and all. However, sometimes she got way too weepy, woeful, and avoidant. She was a complicated character but I enjoyed reading her come into her own.
This was a VERY romantic story....the kind of love that would outlast the stars in the sky.
I do wish there had been more delving into certain aspects of the story....why did her family all ostracize and hate her so much? What happened that caused her to ask the MMC to wipe her memory? How did House become sentient when her mother had absolutely not been practicing Indigenous magic?
The FMC was complicated...and at times I loved her, attitude and viciousness and all. However, sometimes she got way too weepy, woeful, and avoidant. She was a complicated character but I enjoyed reading her come into her own.
This was a VERY romantic story....the kind of love that would outlast the stars in the sky.
I do wish there had been more delving into certain aspects of the story....why did her family all ostracize and hate her so much? What happened that caused her to ask the MMC to wipe her memory? How did House become sentient when her mother had absolutely not been practicing Indigenous magic?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I dont think I have ever read anything quite like this.The raw emotion depicted throughout the entire story is stunning. I was unable to put it down.
Rayne is such a strong character and the growth and change she endures is inspiring. Her entire story is so relatable. From her chronic illness to her troubled childhood. I really felt like I could see myself, in her.
Hawthornes transformation from raw hunger to human is beautifully written. And the way Rayne lets go of her humanity because of her love for them is *chefs kiss*
This folk/gothic/cryptid dark romance is so unique. I was blown away every time I turned the page. I felt like I was really there feeling everything the characters felt. The pure adoration and longing had me in tears. There is quite a bit of gore, but nothing super explicit. Roslyns world building is simple but powerful. It didnt drag on, but always set the stage beautifully.
The story moves quickly but leaves nothing out. The spice level was 🌶/10 for me. it felt like it added to the story, and helped you as the reader FEEL the adoration and love.
The way Roslyn RIPPED my heart from my chest sacrificing characters to the story. I was sobbing. I will never forgive her for it.
As a debute novel I am SCREAMING. Roslyn has officially made it onto my if she writes it, I will read it list. 🍊❤️
absolutely cannot wait to receive my physical copy. This will be an epic re-read.
Rayne is such a strong character and the growth and change she endures is inspiring. Her entire story is so relatable. From her chronic illness to her troubled childhood. I really felt like I could see myself, in her.
Hawthornes transformation from raw hunger to human is beautifully written. And the way Rayne lets go of her humanity because of her love for them is *chefs kiss*
This folk/gothic/cryptid dark romance is so unique. I was blown away every time I turned the page. I felt like I was really there feeling everything the characters felt. The pure adoration and longing had me in tears. There is quite a bit of gore, but nothing super explicit. Roslyns world building is simple but powerful. It didnt drag on, but always set the stage beautifully.
The story moves quickly but leaves nothing out. The spice level was 🌶/10 for me. it felt like it added to the story, and helped you as the reader FEEL the adoration and love.
The way Roslyn RIPPED my heart from my chest sacrificing characters to the story. I was sobbing. I will never forgive her for it.
As a debute novel I am SCREAMING. Roslyn has officially made it onto my if she writes it, I will read it list. 🍊❤️
absolutely cannot wait to receive my physical copy. This will be an epic re-read.
March 2, 2026
This one was a wild ride from start to finish.
The Appalachian setting was perfectly eerie.
The folklore horror elements were especially intriguing. That said, I do wish we had gotten a little more background information about the monsters. I wanted to dig even deeper into their origins and lore.
And the romance? Unhinged. But somehow… it worked.
Overall, there were things I liked, though I do think it could have been tightened up a bit. A slightly shorter runtime and a little more creature lore would have made it even stronger.
The Appalachian setting was perfectly eerie.
The folklore horror elements were especially intriguing. That said, I do wish we had gotten a little more background information about the monsters. I wanted to dig even deeper into their origins and lore.
And the romance? Unhinged. But somehow… it worked.
Overall, there were things I liked, though I do think it could have been tightened up a bit. A slightly shorter runtime and a little more creature lore would have made it even stronger.
Did Not Finish
March 25, 2026Sadly, I gave up at the end of Chapter 16 (25%/ page 168 out of 618 e-pages). The reason mainly being a lack of editing. I came across so many proofreading errors that kept interrupting my reading momentum. I also think that the plot got watered down from what initially began as a promising spooky story.
August 6, 2026
While this book was entirely too long, in my opinion, and could have used some paring down, the story was very interesting and inventive. I never see folk horror romance with a Black FMC (Black/Indigenous in this case). So I love that!
The FMC was complicated...and at times I loved her, attitude and viciousness and all. However, sometimes she got way too weepy, woeful, and avoidant. She was a complicated character but I enjoyed reading her come into her own.
This was a VERY romantic story....the kind of love that would outlast the stars in the sky.
I do wish there had been more delving into certain aspects of the story....why did her family all ostracize and hate her so much? What happened that caused her to ask the MMC to wipe her memory? How did House become sentient when her mother had absolutely not been practicing Indigenous magic?
The FMC was complicated...and at times I loved her, attitude and viciousness and all. However, sometimes she got way too weepy, woeful, and avoidant. She was a complicated character but I enjoyed reading her come into her own.
This was a VERY romantic story....the kind of love that would outlast the stars in the sky.
I do wish there had been more delving into certain aspects of the story....why did her family all ostracize and hate her so much? What happened that caused her to ask the MMC to wipe her memory? How did House become sentient when her mother had absolutely not been practicing Indigenous magic?
December 26, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
I’m speechless. This book…was a spiritual experience. Reading it was like carving open some thrashing, monstrous thing and being bathed in all the pain and love and grief and longing that poured out.
The main characters in this book? Brilliant. The author wrote them in such a way that their claws hook into you, making your root for “good” monsters in a way that feels disturbing yet oh-so-right.
The story? Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking, heart breaking, heart braking (and yes I mean all three). If any of the flavors of this story are familiar to you—a religious rural upbringing, the spirituality that so effortlessly blends with Black and indigenous everyday living, the mainstays of “old wives tales” and folklore as believed beads of wisdom—then this book will speak to you.
The overarching theme of love? I can’t even get into it or I’ll cry (again). You think you know love until you read this book. Until you see Rayne’s search for it in this book. Until you see the physical manifestation of “I will go to the ends of the earth for you” written out so beautifully in this book.
This book is incredible. The only reason it’s not a 5-star for me is because I think it could’ve used another round of copyediting. But don’t let that stop you from embarking on this deeply moving journey of a monstrous woman finding herself and the love she’s always deserved.
I’m speechless. This book…was a spiritual experience. Reading it was like carving open some thrashing, monstrous thing and being bathed in all the pain and love and grief and longing that poured out.
The main characters in this book? Brilliant. The author wrote them in such a way that their claws hook into you, making your root for “good” monsters in a way that feels disturbing yet oh-so-right.
The story? Heartbreaking. Heartbreaking, heart breaking, heart braking (and yes I mean all three). If any of the flavors of this story are familiar to you—a religious rural upbringing, the spirituality that so effortlessly blends with Black and indigenous everyday living, the mainstays of “old wives tales” and folklore as believed beads of wisdom—then this book will speak to you.
The overarching theme of love? I can’t even get into it or I’ll cry (again). You think you know love until you read this book. Until you see Rayne’s search for it in this book. Until you see the physical manifestation of “I will go to the ends of the earth for you” written out so beautifully in this book.
This book is incredible. The only reason it’s not a 5-star for me is because I think it could’ve used another round of copyediting. But don’t let that stop you from embarking on this deeply moving journey of a monstrous woman finding herself and the love she’s always deserved.
July 15, 2026
This book hooked me from the start.
There is something so poetic about how it is written, but not in a confusing way.
It was so refreshing having the main character with a chronic illness, as someone living with one, we don’t see it enough.
Hawthorne, I adore them in every way. They simply say it how it is, in fact where they are from, when we met their mother, it was the same. Why can’t we all just say how it is, no fluff needed.
Persimmon, I am so sorry. What a beautiful human. I understand why it had to happen but it broke me, as it broke Rayne.
Quotes:
For those who reached out in the dark and wished someone would reach back.
The Devil was not some cruel monster that sought to hurt her. No. The Devil was kind.
She had learned long ago that the difference between kindness and nice was an ocean one could drown in.
When I die, she thought, I want to come back a daffodil. Screw haunting houses, I’ll bloom in frozen ground alone in the snow. No parents to claim me.
Yes. We have a deal, Rayne Dorne.” “Okay. Good. Hey, Hawthorne?” “Yes?” “Get off of my porch,” she punctuated the sentence by slamming the inner door and locking it loudly. Laughter burst out of their chest so suddenly that they took a step back, startled by the sound. She made me laugh.
After settling in her Jeep, Rayne shifted the car in reverse, looking to her rearview mirror. Hawthorne sat curled in the back seat, a collection of smoke. “Hello.” Rayne screamed, slamming down on her brakes. Her body surged forward, and if it were not for the cushioned cover she had on her seatbelt, it would have cut her from throat to her navel
Something tugged at her foot, and she glanced back, assuming that her shoelace had snagged on the corner of something sharp, only to find Hawthorne’s fingers against her ankle. “There are oranges here,” they said, their voice the most emotive that she had heard thus far. It almost sounded like they were excited. Rayne looked to the display in front of her and slightly to her left; lemons, grapefruits, and of course, oranges. “Yeah. Grocery stores usually have those.” “All of them?” “I guess?” “I would like some.”
Memory was a gift and a curse for spirits. They could remember everything in perfect clarity, but with it came the knowledge that they could only experience something once. These remained ingrained in their kind long after things were rotting in the ground.
She opened the spice cabinet and made a show of rummaging around, much louder than she needed to be. “Onion powder, salt, pepper, fennel seed, garlic powder—“ “Those will do. Grab them all.” Rayne tossed them all onto the counter, folding her arms over her chest. “A bowl next, you’ll need to mix them.” “Good girl,” they purred when she grabbed one and placed it beside the stove. Rayne nearly dropped it, her knees trembling. She cleared her throat, praying that they didn’t notice.
Do not think that you can dictate my vision of you. I can and do see you, Rayne. I will not allow you to diminish yourself right in front of me. Shrinking is for lesser beings.”
Her grandmother had always taught her to take pride in her hair and to only allow those that loved her to touch it. Before she’d died, Rayne’s grandmother was the only person who’d ever touched her hair. After she’d died, Thelma had attempted but her touch was rough and often left Rayne crying. Since then, Rayne had never let anyone else touch a strand of her hair if it was unbraided.
My hands are not clean,” Hawthorne said from behind her, rubbing their hands against the thick material of their jeans. “I have no smoke to purify them. Are you sure you would still like for me to undo it?” Not trusting herself to speak, she nodded. It must be true, all of it. They have really known me all of my life.
That is not the question,” they said with that easy grin of theirs. “The question is what if I like what I see? What if your scars remind me of angry ocean waves or the bark of my favorite tree? What if they are beautiful to me, Rayne? What then?”
Husband? That’s rather gendered. She thought in their direction. I thought you didn’t like labels like that. I like the sound of it when it comes to you. And a husband is a role. I was going to refer to myself as your wife, but husband sounds much better, they replied, billowing into her mind like smoke. Do you not like it? Rayne didn’t like it, she realized. She loved it.
Their attention fell to Juniper. In the fading light, she saw their canines sharpening with the rest of their teeth, their jaw snapping as it unhinged. Rayne sat back in the snow as she watched Hawthorne tear into what was left of Juniper Stern. Over the crunching of bone and the slick sound of flesh and blood squelching between teeth, Rayne giggled.
I almost pity humans. It must be a special kind of torment to feel your body slowly becoming a corpse while you still occupy it.
All things change and fade away,” It said. “All will be by and by eventually. I will one day return to my roots and swell into the ground like spring rain. We will all be prey to something bigger. There is nothing so hungry as decay.”
Rayne pressed a kiss to the wall of her House, where her husband always did the same in greeting of their home. It irritated the House, though she was sure that it loved the attention much more than it let on. If she closed her eyes, it was almost like she was kissing Hawthorne again.
I will not be humbled,” she sang to herself. “I will quote Shakespeare and bleed onto the grass if I like. I’ve earned it.”
I do wish that you had told me. I would have liked to attend your nuptials. I bear no anger. I know how you are and I accept you. But that is how I know you have come to ask me for something.”
Their mother was Goddess of Where Land Meets Water and their father the God of Where Dark Meets Light. There were more, but Hawthorne knew little of them.
Hey. What’s wrong?” “She loves you,” Rayne swallowed, wiping at her cheek. “She’s doing this because she loves you.” Oh. Of course this would hurt her. Their wife had spent her entire life living outside of normal relationships, begging for scraps that were always begrudgingly given.
“It’s not fair, Ray. The way things worked out.” The sound of her voice nearly sent Rayne to her knees. She almost stopped. Persimmon. From the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a coyote keeping pace with her; its fur illuminating its face. Green eyes stayed fixed on her. “I loved my life, you know. I struggled and I worked so hard to make something that was mine, and after years, I finally had it. I was gonna adopt a kid, did you know that? I had so much love to give and I didn’t want to waste it on a relationship. I wanted to raise a child and teach them to be gentle and kind and good. But then I met you. I met you and it ruined my life.”
Rayne cast a quick glance at Hawthorne and gave their hand a squeeze in return. “I’ve had a change of heart. I will give back the eye.” Prim grinned, clapping in delight. “There’s a girl! Now—“ “As a favor to you,” Rayne finished. Oh, you mad, perfect, beautiful thing. Primrose’s grin fell and her eyes darkened,
Hawthorne swept the curtain of her hair out of her face, taking a moment to appreciate the ocean of white that lived within it now, like a meteor shower on a winter’s night. “I missed you too. You were the only thought that I could manage.”
All of this, for me. Everything she’s done to herself has been for me. Hawthorne stared, swallowing a sudden lump in their throat. They gripped the handle of the door hard but still their hands shook. The world blurred, smearing and bleeding into itself. What is wrong with my eyes?
Just at the edge of the tree line, a woman with starlight caught in her hair, streaking it white, stood perfectly still. Behind her, the shadows curled, wrapping around her, and the woman turned, stepping into them with open arms.
About the author:
There is nothing she loves more than writing about terrible women and the monsters who adore them.
There is something so poetic about how it is written, but not in a confusing way.
It was so refreshing having the main character with a chronic illness, as someone living with one, we don’t see it enough.
Hawthorne, I adore them in every way. They simply say it how it is, in fact where they are from, when we met their mother, it was the same. Why can’t we all just say how it is, no fluff needed.
Persimmon, I am so sorry. What a beautiful human. I understand why it had to happen but it broke me, as it broke Rayne.
Quotes:
For those who reached out in the dark and wished someone would reach back.
The Devil was not some cruel monster that sought to hurt her. No. The Devil was kind.
She had learned long ago that the difference between kindness and nice was an ocean one could drown in.
When I die, she thought, I want to come back a daffodil. Screw haunting houses, I’ll bloom in frozen ground alone in the snow. No parents to claim me.
Yes. We have a deal, Rayne Dorne.” “Okay. Good. Hey, Hawthorne?” “Yes?” “Get off of my porch,” she punctuated the sentence by slamming the inner door and locking it loudly. Laughter burst out of their chest so suddenly that they took a step back, startled by the sound. She made me laugh.
After settling in her Jeep, Rayne shifted the car in reverse, looking to her rearview mirror. Hawthorne sat curled in the back seat, a collection of smoke. “Hello.” Rayne screamed, slamming down on her brakes. Her body surged forward, and if it were not for the cushioned cover she had on her seatbelt, it would have cut her from throat to her navel
Something tugged at her foot, and she glanced back, assuming that her shoelace had snagged on the corner of something sharp, only to find Hawthorne’s fingers against her ankle. “There are oranges here,” they said, their voice the most emotive that she had heard thus far. It almost sounded like they were excited. Rayne looked to the display in front of her and slightly to her left; lemons, grapefruits, and of course, oranges. “Yeah. Grocery stores usually have those.” “All of them?” “I guess?” “I would like some.”
Memory was a gift and a curse for spirits. They could remember everything in perfect clarity, but with it came the knowledge that they could only experience something once. These remained ingrained in their kind long after things were rotting in the ground.
She opened the spice cabinet and made a show of rummaging around, much louder than she needed to be. “Onion powder, salt, pepper, fennel seed, garlic powder—“ “Those will do. Grab them all.” Rayne tossed them all onto the counter, folding her arms over her chest. “A bowl next, you’ll need to mix them.” “Good girl,” they purred when she grabbed one and placed it beside the stove. Rayne nearly dropped it, her knees trembling. She cleared her throat, praying that they didn’t notice.
Do not think that you can dictate my vision of you. I can and do see you, Rayne. I will not allow you to diminish yourself right in front of me. Shrinking is for lesser beings.”
Her grandmother had always taught her to take pride in her hair and to only allow those that loved her to touch it. Before she’d died, Rayne’s grandmother was the only person who’d ever touched her hair. After she’d died, Thelma had attempted but her touch was rough and often left Rayne crying. Since then, Rayne had never let anyone else touch a strand of her hair if it was unbraided.
My hands are not clean,” Hawthorne said from behind her, rubbing their hands against the thick material of their jeans. “I have no smoke to purify them. Are you sure you would still like for me to undo it?” Not trusting herself to speak, she nodded. It must be true, all of it. They have really known me all of my life.
That is not the question,” they said with that easy grin of theirs. “The question is what if I like what I see? What if your scars remind me of angry ocean waves or the bark of my favorite tree? What if they are beautiful to me, Rayne? What then?”
Husband? That’s rather gendered. She thought in their direction. I thought you didn’t like labels like that. I like the sound of it when it comes to you. And a husband is a role. I was going to refer to myself as your wife, but husband sounds much better, they replied, billowing into her mind like smoke. Do you not like it? Rayne didn’t like it, she realized. She loved it.
Their attention fell to Juniper. In the fading light, she saw their canines sharpening with the rest of their teeth, their jaw snapping as it unhinged. Rayne sat back in the snow as she watched Hawthorne tear into what was left of Juniper Stern. Over the crunching of bone and the slick sound of flesh and blood squelching between teeth, Rayne giggled.
I almost pity humans. It must be a special kind of torment to feel your body slowly becoming a corpse while you still occupy it.
All things change and fade away,” It said. “All will be by and by eventually. I will one day return to my roots and swell into the ground like spring rain. We will all be prey to something bigger. There is nothing so hungry as decay.”
Rayne pressed a kiss to the wall of her House, where her husband always did the same in greeting of their home. It irritated the House, though she was sure that it loved the attention much more than it let on. If she closed her eyes, it was almost like she was kissing Hawthorne again.
I will not be humbled,” she sang to herself. “I will quote Shakespeare and bleed onto the grass if I like. I’ve earned it.”
I do wish that you had told me. I would have liked to attend your nuptials. I bear no anger. I know how you are and I accept you. But that is how I know you have come to ask me for something.”
Their mother was Goddess of Where Land Meets Water and their father the God of Where Dark Meets Light. There were more, but Hawthorne knew little of them.
Hey. What’s wrong?” “She loves you,” Rayne swallowed, wiping at her cheek. “She’s doing this because she loves you.” Oh. Of course this would hurt her. Their wife had spent her entire life living outside of normal relationships, begging for scraps that were always begrudgingly given.
“It’s not fair, Ray. The way things worked out.” The sound of her voice nearly sent Rayne to her knees. She almost stopped. Persimmon. From the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a coyote keeping pace with her; its fur illuminating its face. Green eyes stayed fixed on her. “I loved my life, you know. I struggled and I worked so hard to make something that was mine, and after years, I finally had it. I was gonna adopt a kid, did you know that? I had so much love to give and I didn’t want to waste it on a relationship. I wanted to raise a child and teach them to be gentle and kind and good. But then I met you. I met you and it ruined my life.”
Rayne cast a quick glance at Hawthorne and gave their hand a squeeze in return. “I’ve had a change of heart. I will give back the eye.” Prim grinned, clapping in delight. “There’s a girl! Now—“ “As a favor to you,” Rayne finished. Oh, you mad, perfect, beautiful thing. Primrose’s grin fell and her eyes darkened,
Hawthorne swept the curtain of her hair out of her face, taking a moment to appreciate the ocean of white that lived within it now, like a meteor shower on a winter’s night. “I missed you too. You were the only thought that I could manage.”
All of this, for me. Everything she’s done to herself has been for me. Hawthorne stared, swallowing a sudden lump in their throat. They gripped the handle of the door hard but still their hands shook. The world blurred, smearing and bleeding into itself. What is wrong with my eyes?
Just at the edge of the tree line, a woman with starlight caught in her hair, streaking it white, stood perfectly still. Behind her, the shadows curled, wrapping around her, and the woman turned, stepping into them with open arms.
About the author:
There is nothing she loves more than writing about terrible women and the monsters who adore them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2026
Wowza, what a wild ride this book was…..
Did it need to be 600 pages? No. This author being brand new, they did a good job, but maybe narrow it down into a few different books? I wish it was more detailed about why certain things are this way or be more descriptive on what the characters look like, where they came from… backs story on them etc.
It felt a bit all over the place. Would I read it again, absolutely not. 🫣🫣
Did it need to be 600 pages? No. This author being brand new, they did a good job, but maybe narrow it down into a few different books? I wish it was more detailed about why certain things are this way or be more descriptive on what the characters look like, where they came from… backs story on them etc.
It felt a bit all over the place. Would I read it again, absolutely not. 🫣🫣
January 10, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ what a unique tale. twisted and romantic. the native/indigenous folklore added sm depth to the story and characters. Rayne is soooo relatable some thoughts of hers I’ve literally had about myself.
very immersive. very unsettling and uncomfortable at times. very much a horror-romance, both in equal measure.
I’ve never read anything like this I loved it.
very immersive. very unsettling and uncomfortable at times. very much a horror-romance, both in equal measure.
I’ve never read anything like this I loved it.
February 9, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book I loved it so much. The plot was interesting and the characters were so intriguing. I will say that the second half of the book wasn’t as exciting as the first half but I ate this book UP (pun intended iykyk) I loved the dynamic between the characters and it there were funny banter moments too. So well written and the plot was great!
January 5, 2026
This story is going to stick with me for a VERY long time. I absolutely adored every piece of it.
July 23, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐¾
A Hemorrhage of Us
By Roslyn Reed
A Hemorrhage of Us is a unique horrormance featuring Indigenous Eldritch gods, the Appalachian wilderness and a small town where something isn't right.
This is a villain origin story, full of spice and blood and HEART.
Reed has a rare disease, Epidermolysis Bullosa, which she shares with her FMC, Rayne. This is a very honest account of how carefully affected people have to live, how the simplest things can result in a horrible blistering and bandaging process and nasty scars. She goes into daily pain level on good days vs bad and the dysmorphia about the permanent scarring -- and the way other people act like you're contagious and avoid you or bully you.
To add to this, our FMC is an Indigenous and Black woman in a predominantly white town. She has always been alone, othered, even by those who should love her most like her own family.
It shouldn't be surprising, then, that when she finds love and friendship in the form of Hawthorne, a vaguely wolfish shadow monster/God, she leaps at the chance to finally be understood.
This is a book told in three parts, each more compelling than the last. Rayne and Hawthorne's adventures are strange, bloody, and often murderous, yet somehow despite it all you find yourself rooting for them anyway.
I LOVED how part three got into the lore about the gods and spirits and took us on a completely otherworldly adventure I didn't see coming.
I also thought the epilogue was the perfect touch.
This book is honest, horrifying, and strangely beautiful. Reed's descriptions were often so real I felt like I was there alongside the characters, wincing along with their pain and awestruck by it all.
I still have questions about the house, though!
A Hemorrhage of Us is not for the squeamish, but if you like Indigenous or folk horror and dark paranormal romance, I definitely recommend it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐¾
A Hemorrhage of Us
By Roslyn Reed
A Hemorrhage of Us is a unique horrormance featuring Indigenous Eldritch gods, the Appalachian wilderness and a small town where something isn't right.
This is a villain origin story, full of spice and blood and HEART.
Reed has a rare disease, Epidermolysis Bullosa, which she shares with her FMC, Rayne. This is a very honest account of how carefully affected people have to live, how the simplest things can result in a horrible blistering and bandaging process and nasty scars. She goes into daily pain level on good days vs bad and the dysmorphia about the permanent scarring -- and the way other people act like you're contagious and avoid you or bully you.
To add to this, our FMC is an Indigenous and Black woman in a predominantly white town. She has always been alone, othered, even by those who should love her most like her own family.
It shouldn't be surprising, then, that when she finds love and friendship in the form of Hawthorne, a vaguely wolfish shadow monster/God, she leaps at the chance to finally be understood.
This is a book told in three parts, each more compelling than the last. Rayne and Hawthorne's adventures are strange, bloody, and often murderous, yet somehow despite it all you find yourself rooting for them anyway.
I LOVED how part three got into the lore about the gods and spirits and took us on a completely otherworldly adventure I didn't see coming.
I also thought the epilogue was the perfect touch.
This book is honest, horrifying, and strangely beautiful. Reed's descriptions were often so real I felt like I was there alongside the characters, wincing along with their pain and awestruck by it all.
I still have questions about the house, though!
A Hemorrhage of Us is not for the squeamish, but if you like Indigenous or folk horror and dark paranormal romance, I definitely recommend it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐¾
July 10, 2026
"If it was to be the end of them, they would die by her side. Their blood would seep into the soil like a curse so that the earth might be plagued by their love."
I wasn't sure what to expect with a "horror romance", but that's exactly what this was. And it was exceptional.
There was so much lore going on here. Native American, Appalachian (I presume?), Christianity, and more.... All these stories and beliefs were weaved into a blended tapestry of faith and spirituality. And it's fascinating, because that's honestly what small towns are like. Everyone brings a bit of them to the pot.
I wasn't sure how to feel about Hawthorne at the start. Were they friend or foe? But as they grow and change within their proximity and relationship with Rayne, they really grew on me. For some kind of ancient minor Eldritch god.... You can't complain about them! And, as a side note, their love of oranges absolutely delighted me.
Watching Rayne grow into her literal and metaphorical skin was amazing. She was never weak, but she gets a chance to find her own power and embrace it, in so many ways. Her belief in herself, in House, in Hawthorne.... Even her belief in the people of Bury (and I mean that as offensively as possible). And her flourishing friendship (despite Rayne being blind) with Persimmon was so genuine. I really wanted more but..... Well, that didn't happen.
I'm really just in awe with the lore, to be honest. Crafting the hodgepodge (said lovingly) of spirits, haints, fae, and more? Genius. And really, how do we know what's right, in the end?
I wasn't sure what to expect with a "horror romance", but that's exactly what this was. And it was exceptional.
There was so much lore going on here. Native American, Appalachian (I presume?), Christianity, and more.... All these stories and beliefs were weaved into a blended tapestry of faith and spirituality. And it's fascinating, because that's honestly what small towns are like. Everyone brings a bit of them to the pot.
I wasn't sure how to feel about Hawthorne at the start. Were they friend or foe? But as they grow and change within their proximity and relationship with Rayne, they really grew on me. For some kind of ancient minor Eldritch god.... You can't complain about them! And, as a side note, their love of oranges absolutely delighted me.
Watching Rayne grow into her literal and metaphorical skin was amazing. She was never weak, but she gets a chance to find her own power and embrace it, in so many ways. Her belief in herself, in House, in Hawthorne.... Even her belief in the people of Bury (and I mean that as offensively as possible). And her flourishing friendship (despite Rayne being blind) with Persimmon was so genuine. I really wanted more but..... Well, that didn't happen.
I'm really just in awe with the lore, to be honest. Crafting the hodgepodge (said lovingly) of spirits, haints, fae, and more? Genius. And really, how do we know what's right, in the end?
April 10, 2026
This book is truly going to live in my bones. I went in pretty blind, and was immediately excited by what I found. The prose is so immersive and incredible. Rayne is complex and layered. She's really taken a beating from the world and that's allowed to have shaped her, without making her totally cold and closed off. Her disability is depicted with such care and consideration. Her cultural background is grounded and present, relevant to the story without taking it over completely. It's a perfect plent of Appalachian Folk, Horror, and monster romance.
Hawthorne is incredible, layered and interesting and unerringly Other. I love a good monster that gets to stay consistently Not Human, and even through all the character growth and changes, you're never allowed to forget that they are a monster.
The story is beautiful, the pacing is well done. I could hear and feel it. Hell, there were moments I could smell from the description alone. I will be rereading this, and I will get a hard copy to share it with anyone I can possibly convince to give it a try.
This is the sort of story you have to really sit and digest. Part One really builds the setting, the characters, and everything we need to know, all while letting us fall in love. Part Two allows us a moment to settle, to enjoy, to see the way they grow together. And Part Three reminds you who these characters are and the lengths they'll go to for their love in packed action.
I've never seen the most tender, private parts of myself reflected in a character the way I did with Rayne and seeing how she developed through the story was just absolutely incredible.
I am blown away. I will never shut up about this book. I am so excited to see what more this author can bring. This easily will sit in my top 10 for a long time to come.
Hawthorne is incredible, layered and interesting and unerringly Other. I love a good monster that gets to stay consistently Not Human, and even through all the character growth and changes, you're never allowed to forget that they are a monster.
The story is beautiful, the pacing is well done. I could hear and feel it. Hell, there were moments I could smell from the description alone. I will be rereading this, and I will get a hard copy to share it with anyone I can possibly convince to give it a try.
This is the sort of story you have to really sit and digest. Part One really builds the setting, the characters, and everything we need to know, all while letting us fall in love. Part Two allows us a moment to settle, to enjoy, to see the way they grow together. And Part Three reminds you who these characters are and the lengths they'll go to for their love in packed action.
I've never seen the most tender, private parts of myself reflected in a character the way I did with Rayne and seeing how she developed through the story was just absolutely incredible.
I am blown away. I will never shut up about this book. I am so excited to see what more this author can bring. This easily will sit in my top 10 for a long time to come.
March 12, 2026
A Hemorrhage of Us is a beautiful descent into madness, chaos, and destruction. Filled with loneliness, pain, and aching rage, Roslyn Reed crafts a world drenched in folk horror and a love bound in blood.
"Do I look as thought I've been chewed up and spit out by the world?"
After escaping her hometown of Bury, Rayne Dorne finds herself called back to the town, back to her own personal hell, filled with townsfolk who torment her and haunting childhood memories. But darkness lurks in the woods... and it has a taste for Rayne.
"You are the only hungry thing I want to be eaten by."
A Hemorrhage of Us has everything I want in a horror romance: A softer beginning with a main character who grows into her strength, themes of mental health and trauma, a gentle yet vicious romance, and a wash of blood and gore that soaks the pages in it's viscera.
"Even if it is to be a shared grave, you and I will be together again."
Coated in themes of terror and wanting, A Hemorrhage of Us fills that longing for a horror romance that bleeds as much as it cuts.
"I will peel back the flesh of the world for your, and in exchange, you will give me some of you. Your blood, your tears, your fear."
"Do I look as thought I've been chewed up and spit out by the world?"
After escaping her hometown of Bury, Rayne Dorne finds herself called back to the town, back to her own personal hell, filled with townsfolk who torment her and haunting childhood memories. But darkness lurks in the woods... and it has a taste for Rayne.
"You are the only hungry thing I want to be eaten by."
A Hemorrhage of Us has everything I want in a horror romance: A softer beginning with a main character who grows into her strength, themes of mental health and trauma, a gentle yet vicious romance, and a wash of blood and gore that soaks the pages in it's viscera.
"Even if it is to be a shared grave, you and I will be together again."
Coated in themes of terror and wanting, A Hemorrhage of Us fills that longing for a horror romance that bleeds as much as it cuts.
"I will peel back the flesh of the world for your, and in exchange, you will give me some of you. Your blood, your tears, your fear."
April 9, 2026
THIS BOOK!!! It ranks as my top five this year so far, hands down. I am obsessed with Hawthorne and by the end, even more so with Rayne. (It’s perfect that this is a fave name of mine too hehe) but Rayne has to endure SO MUCH in life and my heart hurt for her. And to see all that she sacrifices and fought SOO hard for in the end literally had me in tears. I don’t think I’ve come across a character written so beautifully as Rayne was.
Words honestly can’t describe her strength and willpower. She’s stubborn and will burn the world for her partner. Hawthorne is a gem as well and will just as likely burn the world for Rayne. Their story is heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once and I’m so happy with the ending.
If you love strong and protective characters, a dash of found family, magic and dark spooky vibes, and spicy romance with no limits as to what the characters will do for each other, this is your next read!
Please mind your triggers as this book does go into some dark themes and depicts violence and such.
Words honestly can’t describe her strength and willpower. She’s stubborn and will burn the world for her partner. Hawthorne is a gem as well and will just as likely burn the world for Rayne. Their story is heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once and I’m so happy with the ending.
If you love strong and protective characters, a dash of found family, magic and dark spooky vibes, and spicy romance with no limits as to what the characters will do for each other, this is your next read!
Please mind your triggers as this book does go into some dark themes and depicts violence and such.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Hemorrhage of Us by Roslyn Reed is a book that bleeds one onto the page, line by line, with prose so lyrical it often feels closer to poetry than conventional narrative. It is a story that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Unfortunately, I am not skilled at writing book reviews, so here is a list of my immediate thoughts:
- What truly elevates the book, in my opinion, is its commitment to character. The arcs in A Hemorrhage of Us are painstakingly constructed and deeply human. Each character feels shaped by their history in a way that’s palpable on the page. Growth is never rushed or cosmetic; it is earned through contradiction, failure, and difficult choices. Reed allows her characters to be sharp-edged and vulnerable at the same time, resisting easy redemption while still offering genuine hope. Watching them change feels less like observing a plot mechanic and more like witnessing real emotional evolution. Rayne's journey, in particular, feels so well-earned by the end of the story. She's a character you root for the entire way, and it's so satisfying to see how everything plays out. Hawth (the loml) is such a fascinating character to me. The contrast they provide to Rayne as an entity that is comfortable in who they are was absolutely delicious, and I did also appreciate the humor they brought to the page every so often (the scene with the Christmas decorations had me cackling.)
- House and Persi were also *chef's kiss.* I could gush about both of them for hours.
- Aside from the spectacular character writing, I think my favorite part of AHOU is the way that folklore is woven throughout it. The book is filled to the brim with magic without reading too much like a fantasy, which was a very interesting spin on things for me. It kept me constantly fascinated and I found myself constantly dying to know more about the magic of the world, and fortunately, Reed had it so interwoven to the story that everything was always eventually explained in a way that was natural, lacking overly informational expositions.
- Representation that is respectful and never performative. Rayne, as a black indigenous woman is so well represented. (And, as a side note, the way Hawth responded when Rayne asks them to undo her braid left me in shambles. It was so wholesome and sweet, dude.) Hawth's non-binary identity could be related to them being, well, an entity, but is done in a way that's so nonchalant that it's refreshing. They're just existing as a thing that goes beyond gender and I love that, personally. I do not personally know very much about the disease that Rayne has, so it was interesting to get to learn more about it!
- The horror elements were well-balanced with the mystical and the romantic ones, in my opinion. I, personally, am not a big fan of body-horror, but the scenes that included it were so well done that I was never at any point turned off from the story.
All in all, this is one of the few stories I've read that I wish I could give 6 stars. If you're a fan of works like Deathless, anything by Ethel Cain, or the story of Eurydice and Orpheus, then this is a book you need to get into your hands IMMEDIATELY.
Unfortunately, I am not skilled at writing book reviews, so here is a list of my immediate thoughts:
- What truly elevates the book, in my opinion, is its commitment to character. The arcs in A Hemorrhage of Us are painstakingly constructed and deeply human. Each character feels shaped by their history in a way that’s palpable on the page. Growth is never rushed or cosmetic; it is earned through contradiction, failure, and difficult choices. Reed allows her characters to be sharp-edged and vulnerable at the same time, resisting easy redemption while still offering genuine hope. Watching them change feels less like observing a plot mechanic and more like witnessing real emotional evolution. Rayne's journey, in particular, feels so well-earned by the end of the story. She's a character you root for the entire way, and it's so satisfying to see how everything plays out. Hawth (the loml) is such a fascinating character to me. The contrast they provide to Rayne as an entity that is comfortable in who they are was absolutely delicious, and I did also appreciate the humor they brought to the page every so often (the scene with the Christmas decorations had me cackling.)
- House and Persi were also *chef's kiss.* I could gush about both of them for hours.
- Aside from the spectacular character writing, I think my favorite part of AHOU is the way that folklore is woven throughout it. The book is filled to the brim with magic without reading too much like a fantasy, which was a very interesting spin on things for me. It kept me constantly fascinated and I found myself constantly dying to know more about the magic of the world, and fortunately, Reed had it so interwoven to the story that everything was always eventually explained in a way that was natural, lacking overly informational expositions.
- Representation that is respectful and never performative. Rayne, as a black indigenous woman is so well represented. (And, as a side note, the way Hawth responded when Rayne asks them to undo her braid left me in shambles. It was so wholesome and sweet, dude.) Hawth's non-binary identity could be related to them being, well, an entity, but is done in a way that's so nonchalant that it's refreshing. They're just existing as a thing that goes beyond gender and I love that, personally. I do not personally know very much about the disease that Rayne has, so it was interesting to get to learn more about it!
- The horror elements were well-balanced with the mystical and the romantic ones, in my opinion. I, personally, am not a big fan of body-horror, but the scenes that included it were so well done that I was never at any point turned off from the story.
All in all, this is one of the few stories I've read that I wish I could give 6 stars. If you're a fan of works like Deathless, anything by Ethel Cain, or the story of Eurydice and Orpheus, then this is a book you need to get into your hands IMMEDIATELY.
August 9, 2026
Conflicting, but ultimately worth reading!
I originally leaned toward a 3 star rating, because the first half of this book is SLOW. It is long and doesn’t feel like enough happens to justify it. However, once we hit about 45-50% through, a lot hit me at once - the context to understand Rayne’s defensiveness and tendency to lash out, Hawthorne’s place in the story, House (House, my beloved). While I do think the first half could have been streamlined more, now that I’ve finished the entire book, I feel confident in saying that AHOU’s strengths far outweigh its cons. The prose is delightful, the characters are really interesting (even the characters that aren’t fully fleshed out, like the Pastor, who I would have liked more about tbh), and the magic? The entities? The folklore? Honestly we could have done an even deeper dive into the spiritual world here because it is both fascinating and sinister (which is just how I like it). I also, admittedly, like that Rayne is a little feral and fits into the darkness of the world so well even though she tries to be wary of it.
One last thing I have to talk about: I WOULD DO LITERALLY ANYTHING FOR HOUSE. I love that you can’t fully trust it. I love that it speaks to Rayne so sweetly you feel like it’s got to be at least a little bit manipulative. I love the idea of sacrificing part of yourself to become one with your home in a way. I just love you, House, possessive service dom elements and all.
In conclusion: if you have the wherewithal to push through the first 1/3 or so (it’s not bad, just unnecessarily long), I absolutely recommend the rest of A Hemorrhage of Us.
I originally leaned toward a 3 star rating, because the first half of this book is SLOW. It is long and doesn’t feel like enough happens to justify it. However, once we hit about 45-50% through, a lot hit me at once - the context to understand Rayne’s defensiveness and tendency to lash out, Hawthorne’s place in the story, House (House, my beloved). While I do think the first half could have been streamlined more, now that I’ve finished the entire book, I feel confident in saying that AHOU’s strengths far outweigh its cons. The prose is delightful, the characters are really interesting (even the characters that aren’t fully fleshed out, like the Pastor, who I would have liked more about tbh), and the magic? The entities? The folklore? Honestly we could have done an even deeper dive into the spiritual world here because it is both fascinating and sinister (which is just how I like it). I also, admittedly, like that Rayne is a little feral and fits into the darkness of the world so well even though she tries to be wary of it.
One last thing I have to talk about: I WOULD DO LITERALLY ANYTHING FOR HOUSE. I love that you can’t fully trust it. I love that it speaks to Rayne so sweetly you feel like it’s got to be at least a little bit manipulative. I love the idea of sacrificing part of yourself to become one with your home in a way. I just love you, House, possessive service dom elements and all.
In conclusion: if you have the wherewithal to push through the first 1/3 or so (it’s not bad, just unnecessarily long), I absolutely recommend the rest of A Hemorrhage of Us.
July 9, 2026
such a beautiful tale!
it lost some of its momentum around the middle, but it was beautiful regardless!
i absolutely love how everything turned out, how she became the feared one from the scared one, the character development was unreal!!!
i absolutely love morally questionable characters so no complaints from me, that's for sure
was it gothic? i wouldn't say that. it was dark, tired to be spooky, but I'd say it's more of a folklore-inspired story. if you're looking for haunted house vibes, that's not it. BUT if you're into tALKING HOUSES and morally-grey characters PLEASE GO FOR IT YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED
i absolutely love how the romance never tried to be the center of this story. it was a part of it, a meaningful part, but it never tried to be a romance book
this tale doesn't ask you "will they get their happy ending?"
it asks you "will they survive their happy ending?" and I find this question much more meaningful
i love how Hawthorne remained a spirit using they/them pronouns. it makes so much sense and I found it really comforting to see that they never once tried to be "a man"
AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVED when they told her they're theirs before they could ever be hers. that's such a healthy, mature and beautiful view on love and relationships. because YES. YOU'RE YOUR OWN PERSON BEFORE YOU COULD EVER BE SOMEONE ELSE'S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rotten oranges absolutely broke my heart. BROKE IT
Jesus, this book was amazing. i cannot recommend this one enough
do yourself a favor and read this one
it lost some of its momentum around the middle, but it was beautiful regardless!
i absolutely love how everything turned out, how she became the feared one from the scared one, the character development was unreal!!!
i absolutely love morally questionable characters so no complaints from me, that's for sure
was it gothic? i wouldn't say that. it was dark, tired to be spooky, but I'd say it's more of a folklore-inspired story. if you're looking for haunted house vibes, that's not it. BUT if you're into tALKING HOUSES and morally-grey characters PLEASE GO FOR IT YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED
i absolutely love how the romance never tried to be the center of this story. it was a part of it, a meaningful part, but it never tried to be a romance book
this tale doesn't ask you "will they get their happy ending?"
it asks you "will they survive their happy ending?" and I find this question much more meaningful
i love how Hawthorne remained a spirit using they/them pronouns. it makes so much sense and I found it really comforting to see that they never once tried to be "a man"
AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVED when they told her they're theirs before they could ever be hers. that's such a healthy, mature and beautiful view on love and relationships. because YES. YOU'RE YOUR OWN PERSON BEFORE YOU COULD EVER BE SOMEONE ELSE'S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rotten oranges absolutely broke my heart. BROKE IT
Jesus, this book was amazing. i cannot recommend this one enough
do yourself a favor and read this one
August 9, 2026
6⭐
Whatever world exists in this book has to be one of the most unfair in the entire universe. I genuinely don't think I've ever been this angry on behalf of a character.
Even though I love horror, this was actually the first horror book I've read, and my heart was singing throughout the entire thing. I'm a huge fan of folk horror, so the folklore, the Lenape elements, and the connection to nature were incredibly immersive and fascinating.
Rayne's heartbreaking life made me want to scream and trash everything. For the first time in my reading journey, I wasn't just sad for a character - I was genuinely mad for them. I still can't comprehend why everyone hated a child so much. But then again, maybe that's the point - humans can be cruel without needing a reason.
And the romance… unconventional, wicked, and somehow still so beautiful and pure. Yes, pure. Even with everything they've done.
There were moments when I thought the book was getting too long and had too many pages, but somehow, every time it started to drag, it pulled me right back in. By the end, I was genuinely sad to close the book. The ending was hard to swallow. I didn't cry, but the lump in my throat made it feel like I couldn't breathe. Somehow it was both bittersweet and haunting. This book is going to stay with me for a long time and is definitely going straight onto my list of favourites.
I forgive you everything, dear Rayne...
Whatever world exists in this book has to be one of the most unfair in the entire universe. I genuinely don't think I've ever been this angry on behalf of a character.
Even though I love horror, this was actually the first horror book I've read, and my heart was singing throughout the entire thing. I'm a huge fan of folk horror, so the folklore, the Lenape elements, and the connection to nature were incredibly immersive and fascinating.
Rayne's heartbreaking life made me want to scream and trash everything. For the first time in my reading journey, I wasn't just sad for a character - I was genuinely mad for them. I still can't comprehend why everyone hated a child so much. But then again, maybe that's the point - humans can be cruel without needing a reason.
And the romance… unconventional, wicked, and somehow still so beautiful and pure. Yes, pure. Even with everything they've done.
There were moments when I thought the book was getting too long and had too many pages, but somehow, every time it started to drag, it pulled me right back in. By the end, I was genuinely sad to close the book. The ending was hard to swallow. I didn't cry, but the lump in my throat made it feel like I couldn't breathe. Somehow it was both bittersweet and haunting. This book is going to stay with me for a long time and is definitely going straight onto my list of favourites.
I forgive you everything, dear Rayne...
December 15, 2025
Whoa, where to begin?
First, thank you to the author for sharing an ARC with me. It’s always exciting and honoring to review new works!
Now, onto the story. This was a truly unique story about a girl and a shadow who lived in the forest. Pulling themes from Red Riding Hood, Lenape cultural stories, and rural Americana, this was truly a refreshing read. Couple that with a NB love interest, a Black-Indigenous FMC with something reminiscent to hemophilia, and a sentient house (and tree), and you’re in for a wild ride.
The story is long — 770+ pages and could have easily had another 100 or so to wrap up the ending a bit neater. The version I read also had quite a few formatting and grammatical errors, which can easily be resolved with another editorial review. Most of the errors I found were towards the back of the book, which makes me think that this was wrapped up quickly. Personally, I would have liked a bit more time spent on the ending to wrap up things nicely.
The story is a bit dark — so if you’re not into horror, you may want to skip this. However, if you do decide to read it, you’re in for a culturally-rich story of love and morally black decisions.
2.75 stars for this solid debut. Another editorial pass and this can be an easy 3.5-4 star read. Thanks again, Roslyn, for the ARC read!!
First, thank you to the author for sharing an ARC with me. It’s always exciting and honoring to review new works!
Now, onto the story. This was a truly unique story about a girl and a shadow who lived in the forest. Pulling themes from Red Riding Hood, Lenape cultural stories, and rural Americana, this was truly a refreshing read. Couple that with a NB love interest, a Black-Indigenous FMC with something reminiscent to hemophilia, and a sentient house (and tree), and you’re in for a wild ride.
The story is long — 770+ pages and could have easily had another 100 or so to wrap up the ending a bit neater. The version I read also had quite a few formatting and grammatical errors, which can easily be resolved with another editorial review. Most of the errors I found were towards the back of the book, which makes me think that this was wrapped up quickly. Personally, I would have liked a bit more time spent on the ending to wrap up things nicely.
The story is a bit dark — so if you’re not into horror, you may want to skip this. However, if you do decide to read it, you’re in for a culturally-rich story of love and morally black decisions.
2.75 stars for this solid debut. Another editorial pass and this can be an easy 3.5-4 star read. Thanks again, Roslyn, for the ARC read!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The way that my heart sank into my butt several times while reading this should be studied. I love that everyone in this is flawed in a way that makes them so imperfectly perfect for the story they live in. There were times that I hated what they were doing because it was a bad idea but I couldn’t fault them for it. At no point was I thinking “no one would actually do that”. Like hell yeah I’d burn the world down if half of this plot happened to me. I don’t think I have gotten behind someone’s crash out this hard before.
The romance? Amazing. The supernatural and folklore points? Brilliant! The horror? Nauseating. I actually had to take a moment at several points just to chill. This book tugged at so many emotions during reading.
I was able to read the arc book for this and there are some things that could be polished. It’s a long book but it went by a lot quicker than I thought it would. If I had the bandwidth to sit and read this for a good chunk of time, it would probably only have taken two or three sittings. I do think that a lot of the little things will be picked up on in the last pass before it officially comes out so I’m not counting it too much against the book. For an indie debut novel, this was a very strong and lovable book!
I will absolutely be recommending this to anyone and everyone. A Hemerage Of Us will be living in my head rent free for a long while!
The romance? Amazing. The supernatural and folklore points? Brilliant! The horror? Nauseating. I actually had to take a moment at several points just to chill. This book tugged at so many emotions during reading.
I was able to read the arc book for this and there are some things that could be polished. It’s a long book but it went by a lot quicker than I thought it would. If I had the bandwidth to sit and read this for a good chunk of time, it would probably only have taken two or three sittings. I do think that a lot of the little things will be picked up on in the last pass before it officially comes out so I’m not counting it too much against the book. For an indie debut novel, this was a very strong and lovable book!
I will absolutely be recommending this to anyone and everyone. A Hemerage Of Us will be living in my head rent free for a long while!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be one of the ARC readers for this novel and I cannot even begin to tell you all how much I loved this book!!!
The narrative follows Rayne as she navigates the death of her parents, the inheritance of a home she does not want, and the seemingly futile hope she has of escaping her home town one more time after many years away. What Rayne doesn't know is that her hometown, and the spirits and monsters within it, have missed her and won't let her get away again.
This book will take you on the ride of your life. You will go through angst and yearning, incomparable love, grief, terror, and mystery. When you think you've surely experienced everything it has to offer, you'll discover it can get much, much darker, and much, much more dangerous, and you'll be thanking whatever deity you choose that there are still pages left (until there aren't).
If you're a fan of romance that makes your bones ache, magic that makes you remember to be afraid of the dark, love interests that will keep you awake at night, and female leads that exceed all of your expectations, then you'll love this book.
The narrative follows Rayne as she navigates the death of her parents, the inheritance of a home she does not want, and the seemingly futile hope she has of escaping her home town one more time after many years away. What Rayne doesn't know is that her hometown, and the spirits and monsters within it, have missed her and won't let her get away again.
This book will take you on the ride of your life. You will go through angst and yearning, incomparable love, grief, terror, and mystery. When you think you've surely experienced everything it has to offer, you'll discover it can get much, much darker, and much, much more dangerous, and you'll be thanking whatever deity you choose that there are still pages left (until there aren't).
If you're a fan of romance that makes your bones ache, magic that makes you remember to be afraid of the dark, love interests that will keep you awake at night, and female leads that exceed all of your expectations, then you'll love this book.
July 4, 2026
I don't usually read horror romance, but the cover of this book is so good I couldn't resist. And I enjoyed every moment of reading this. The plunge into revenge and darkness was exquisite. I was cheering on Rayne and Hawthorne.
The chronic illness rep was great, and I believe it's the first time I've read a book with a MC that had a skin condition like that. It was even better when I got to the end and realized that the author has it, too. It broke my heart reading the trauma and hate that Rayne received from people who should have loved and supported her. I can't imagine trying to exist and thrive in a town of people who either constantly bully or pity you.
Hawthorne's life and world was so interesting. And they've become one of my top favorite swoony monster MCs. I was very worried for them for a while there. Wasn't sure how they were going to get out of that pickle.
I, however, will forever hold the tiniest of grudges towards the author for the heartbreak she inflicted on me. I was ready to throw my kindle. If you've read this you probably know what I'm talking about. HOW DARE!
The chronic illness rep was great, and I believe it's the first time I've read a book with a MC that had a skin condition like that. It was even better when I got to the end and realized that the author has it, too. It broke my heart reading the trauma and hate that Rayne received from people who should have loved and supported her. I can't imagine trying to exist and thrive in a town of people who either constantly bully or pity you.
Hawthorne's life and world was so interesting. And they've become one of my top favorite swoony monster MCs. I was very worried for them for a while there. Wasn't sure how they were going to get out of that pickle.
I, however, will forever hold the tiniest of grudges towards the author for the heartbreak she inflicted on me. I was ready to throw my kindle. If you've read this you probably know what I'm talking about. HOW DARE!
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