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A Symphony of Shattered Souls: The Overture
In one breath, one moment, everything can change.
Briar Tudstad is a single mother, struggling to provide a life for her ten-year-old daughter, Lysa. The day starts like any other. Wake up, see Lysa off to school, go to work... until the small town of Greenville is torn apart.
Accompanied by the enigmatic Kaelen, Bri will do anything to get to her daughter. But Kaelen has his own agenda. As the supernatural world sinks its claws in, she’s haunted by a Demon in her mind and another that wants to claim her body.
How do you keep the person you love most safe from a world you have no control over? And at what cost?
Briar Tudstad is a single mother, struggling to provide a life for her ten-year-old daughter, Lysa. The day starts like any other. Wake up, see Lysa off to school, go to work... until the small town of Greenville is torn apart.
Accompanied by the enigmatic Kaelen, Bri will do anything to get to her daughter. But Kaelen has his own agenda. As the supernatural world sinks its claws in, she’s haunted by a Demon in her mind and another that wants to claim her body.
How do you keep the person you love most safe from a world you have no control over? And at what cost?
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2026
5 people are currently reading
4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Review of advance copy
I absolutely love this book! I couldn't put it down and finished it in one day! The dynamic between Bri and Kaelen is great.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so addictive! The writing style hooked me from the start! I was a little nervous at first, given that there was a 10 year old as part of the characters, but Lysa was written in perfectly! The story is action packed and fast paced. I loved all the characters and can not wait to see how their story unfolds!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book delivers a raw, unapologetic dive into dark fantasy romance, where the line between passion and peril is razor-thin. LaRue's prose is visceral and immersive, excelling in tense action sequences and emotional depth—Bri's maternal ferocity feels authentic and heart-wrenching, making her a standout protagonist amid the chaos. The supernatural lore is creative, blending ancient curses, soul bonds, and demonic hierarchies into a compelling backdrop that hints at deeper world-building to come. The explicit content (including aggressive sex, gore, and manipulation) aligns with the trigger warnings and adds to the story's intensity without feeling gratuitous, though it may overwhelm readers sensitive to such themes.
On the downside, the pacing occasionally stumbles, with early chapters focusing heavily on Bri's mundane life before accelerating into nonstop supernatural drama. Some character motivations (like Theo's role or Malikai's vendetta) could use more early fleshing out, and the cliffhanger ending, while effective, leaves several threads dangling. Still, it's a bold overture that doesn't shy from politically incorrect or edgy elements, substantiated by strong thematic ties to trauma, redemption, and forbidden love. Fans of authors like Jennifer L. Armentrout or Laura Thalassa will find it addictive. I'd rate it 4 out of 5 stars—solid for a debut in the series, with potential for even stronger sequels.
On the downside, the pacing occasionally stumbles, with early chapters focusing heavily on Bri's mundane life before accelerating into nonstop supernatural drama. Some character motivations (like Theo's role or Malikai's vendetta) could use more early fleshing out, and the cliffhanger ending, while effective, leaves several threads dangling. Still, it's a bold overture that doesn't shy from politically incorrect or edgy elements, substantiated by strong thematic ties to trauma, redemption, and forbidden love. Fans of authors like Jennifer L. Armentrout or Laura Thalassa will find it addictive. I'd rate it 4 out of 5 stars—solid for a debut in the series, with potential for even stronger sequels.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC. Just wow! I could not put this book down. It was so well written and I kept reading and reading and reading until I finished it!
This writing style was so easy to follow, it felt like you were within the story. I didn't feel like an outsider looking in, I felt IMMERSED within the story.
The FMC, Bri, from the very start was so relatable, and as a mother, her concerns, worry and guilt, I completely identified with her right off the bat. She had her moments where she doubted herself, but it didn't feel whiney, or done too much. Her love for her daughter captivated me and her need to protect her or save her at all costs felt true to a mother daughter relationship.
The physical relationship between Bri and Kaelen was intense, but no overly ridiculous. It felt like it built appropriately, the lust was there, but the tension and attraction felt believable.
I am so intrigued by the spiritual connection and relationship between Bri and Devos, and I cannot wait to learn more about their connection. The world building in the book was superbly done. While I was left with some questions, since this is a first in a series, I wasn't left wanting. The authors ability to bring the hellscape world to life was "chef's kiss."
This was absolutely amazing and it will absolutely be a re-read and comfort read for me in the future.
This writing style was so easy to follow, it felt like you were within the story. I didn't feel like an outsider looking in, I felt IMMERSED within the story.
The FMC, Bri, from the very start was so relatable, and as a mother, her concerns, worry and guilt, I completely identified with her right off the bat. She had her moments where she doubted herself, but it didn't feel whiney, or done too much. Her love for her daughter captivated me and her need to protect her or save her at all costs felt true to a mother daughter relationship.
The physical relationship between Bri and Kaelen was intense, but no overly ridiculous. It felt like it built appropriately, the lust was there, but the tension and attraction felt believable.
I am so intrigued by the spiritual connection and relationship between Bri and Devos, and I cannot wait to learn more about their connection. The world building in the book was superbly done. While I was left with some questions, since this is a first in a series, I wasn't left wanting. The authors ability to bring the hellscape world to life was "chef's kiss."
This was absolutely amazing and it will absolutely be a re-read and comfort read for me in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
2026 Reading is started with a BANG!
Devoured this book in less than 6 hours. Seniorita, D. LaRue wrote a story that just took hold of me and didn’t let me go until I finished it. ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED IT.
The story line is a one that is so unique and quite refreshing. I was throughly impressed with MC’s and how well they were thought out. I truly enjoyed the interaction of the FMC and her daughter. I can say that I was not only able to identify with the FMC in all aspects but also that of her daughter. D LaRue help me remember how much of a pain and quick witted I was as a child.
The two MMC’s this author writes in this story are beautifully written. I truly enjoyed the interaction of the MMC that is currently physically interacting with her and her daughter, while having me yearn for the other. Needless to say I celebrated when he appeared. The twist and turns kept me guessing the entire time, which is refreshing since I tend to anticipate 95% of the time what is coming next.
Oh and the spice level is amazing and then there is one moment that is pure “Chef Kiss”
I truly can’t believe this is a debut novel for this author. A MUST READ!
Devoured this book in less than 6 hours. Seniorita, D. LaRue wrote a story that just took hold of me and didn’t let me go until I finished it. ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED IT.
The story line is a one that is so unique and quite refreshing. I was throughly impressed with MC’s and how well they were thought out. I truly enjoyed the interaction of the FMC and her daughter. I can say that I was not only able to identify with the FMC in all aspects but also that of her daughter. D LaRue help me remember how much of a pain and quick witted I was as a child.
The two MMC’s this author writes in this story are beautifully written. I truly enjoyed the interaction of the MMC that is currently physically interacting with her and her daughter, while having me yearn for the other. Needless to say I celebrated when he appeared. The twist and turns kept me guessing the entire time, which is refreshing since I tend to anticipate 95% of the time what is coming next.
Oh and the spice level is amazing and then there is one moment that is pure “Chef Kiss”
I truly can’t believe this is a debut novel for this author. A MUST READ!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC.
I was hooked from the beginning and once I started reading I couldn't stop.
First the writing style drew me in. It was written in that way that captivates you and transports you to a new world.
Bri was extremely relatable. She was an incredible mom, had attitude to high heaven, but struggled with self-doubt and insecurity. She wasn't a stock character but someone that felt real with strengths and flaws.
All of the characters had unique relationships. A common thread was that everyone was protective of Bri’s daughter. And the love between Bri & Lysa was obvious.
I also liked the progression of the relationship between Kaelen and Bri- while they were physically intimate quickly, there was a buildup to true intimacy.
The world building may have been my favorite part. Learning about where Kaelen came from- the “red district” and the fact that there is obviously a culture. It wasn't written as a typical hellscape where either everyone is being tortured or it's a free for all.
In short: this book was incredible and I can't wait for the next one.
I was hooked from the beginning and once I started reading I couldn't stop.
First the writing style drew me in. It was written in that way that captivates you and transports you to a new world.
Bri was extremely relatable. She was an incredible mom, had attitude to high heaven, but struggled with self-doubt and insecurity. She wasn't a stock character but someone that felt real with strengths and flaws.
All of the characters had unique relationships. A common thread was that everyone was protective of Bri’s daughter. And the love between Bri & Lysa was obvious.
I also liked the progression of the relationship between Kaelen and Bri- while they were physically intimate quickly, there was a buildup to true intimacy.
The world building may have been my favorite part. Learning about where Kaelen came from- the “red district” and the fact that there is obviously a culture. It wasn't written as a typical hellscape where either everyone is being tortured or it's a free for all.
In short: this book was incredible and I can't wait for the next one.
February 7, 2026
I was fortunate enough to read an ARC copy of this book, and WOWZA, it did not disappoint! From the beginning, I was swept away by the story of Bri and the men who swept into her life while the town around her dove into despair. I really found myself pulling for her and her desire to save her daughter, while trying to resist the pull of the mysterious stranger who suddenly appeared. I’ve never read such an intriguing character as Kaelen. Did I like him? Did I hate him? It changed from chapter to chapter. By the end I thought I was decided, but the story took another mind-bending twist. LaRue’s writing is intense and fast-paced, pulling you along helplessly for the ride. Lots of smut and a really fun book. I can’t wait for more!
February 6, 2026
I received this book as an ARC
I was hooked from the beginning and once I starled reading it, I couldnt put it down.
First: the writing style drew me in.
It was written in a way that captivates and transports you into a new world. Now I will be honest. There were a few times where the writing was a little confusing and i had to read it several times to finally understand what was happening. But the storyline was so unique and very refreshing. The twists & turns always kept me guessing. In short, this book was incredible and I absolutely can't wait for the next one.
I was hooked from the beginning and once I starled reading it, I couldnt put it down.
First: the writing style drew me in.
It was written in a way that captivates and transports you into a new world. Now I will be honest. There were a few times where the writing was a little confusing and i had to read it several times to finally understand what was happening. But the storyline was so unique and very refreshing. The twists & turns always kept me guessing. In short, this book was incredible and I absolutely can't wait for the next one.
February 8, 2026
What I was not expecting all that I got in this book. Cuz what happened at the very beginning!?!? Like that was intense to say the least. The fear she felt about possibly not making it to her daughter in time during the first attack was intense and I felt it coming off the page. I only paused in my reading due to having to adult otherwise I was ignoring everyone. I need to know what happens next like yesterday.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this book and once I started to read it I couldn't put it down all the characters are very beautifully written and my favorite character is bri and she is very beautifully written and I really enjoyed this book and it was one of my favorite reads for 2026. And the author did a great job with the multiple povs. This book hooked me and kept me hooked all the way through.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Symphony of Shattered Souls: The Overture was absolutely amazing and I highly recommend it! This book hooked me from chapter one. Full of action, suspense, dark monsters, and plenty of spice, I promise you will not be able to put it down. It is easy to connect with the characters and feel all the feels. I am 100% obsessed and can’t wait to see what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC read.
This was an interesting fast paced story interweaving humans, angels and demons.
Plenty of jeopardy for the FMC and a cliff hanger ending. Check your trigger warnings before reading
This was an interesting fast paced story interweaving humans, angels and demons.
Plenty of jeopardy for the FMC and a cliff hanger ending. Check your trigger warnings before reading
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews