Queen of the Damned: Part One

by Emily Shore

For the bookish girlies who love dark romance, poor life choices, and have their therapist on speed dial...

BRIELLA
I ran through the woods with my abusive ex hunting me—until I found them.
Five masked men.
They dismembered him, dragged me into their abandoned mine, and shattered me.

The Initiation was meant to ruin me.
They never expected me to survive.

Now I'm trapped inside their off-the-grid compound, claimed by outlaws bound by blood and the kinship law of their leader, a literal psychopath. They call me their Queen.

But I will have revenge. I'll break these chains. And then, I'll run—before their darkness devours me.
I will never be theirs. And they will never be mine.

THE DAMNED
We are not heroes. We are monsters. We will never be redeemed.

The alpha—a calculating killer with a law written in blood.
The doctor—who stitches wounds and breaks bones in one breath.
The damaged ex-fighter—held together by rage, scars, and ink.
The sociopathic butcher—a rabid madhouse with no brakes.
The axeman—who laughs while splitting men in two.

She should have disappeared into the pit like the others.
Instead, she bleeds with us. Laughs with us. Burns with us. And bites back.

She was born for our darkness.

And if she runs, we will hunt her down and drag her back to hell.
If she chooses to rule, we will build her a throne of corpses.

Because there is no freedom without chains.

~ A morally-black, contemporary why choose romance for readers who fall for monsters, bleed in the dark, and find healing in the trauma. For mature readers only.

Genres: Dark Romance

Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 23, 2026

Reviews

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Queen of the Damned is brutal, feral, and unapologetically dark—a story that doesn’t pretend monsters want redemption or that survival comes without scars. From the first chase through the woods to the blood-soaked initiation, this book makes one thing clear: nothing here is safe, and no one is innocent.

Briella’s journey is harrowing and defiant. She doesn’t emerge from trauma magically healed or instantly empowered—she survives out of sheer will. Being claimed as “Queen” inside an off-the-grid compound ruled by violence and blood law is not a fantasy of comfort; it’s a cage disguised as a crown. What makes her compelling is her refusal to surrender her sense of self, even while surrounded by men who believe ownership is love and chains are freedom.

The Damned are exactly as promised—each one more unhinged than the last. They aren’t softened or excused. The alpha’s law is ruthless, the doctor’s duality chilling, and the rest of the brotherhood feels like controlled chaos barely held together by loyalty and bloodshed. Their collective voice is menacing and possessive, but it’s Briella’s ability to bite back that shifts the balance of power.

What elevates this book is its central question: is freedom something you escape with—or something you seize and reshape? The tension between running and ruling keeps the story sharp, making every interaction feel like a test of dominance, endurance, and choice.

This is not a romance for readers seeking gentleness or redemption arcs. Queen of the Damned is for those who want their dark romance raw, violent, and emotionally intense—where crowns are earned in blood and survival is the ultimate rebellion. 🖤🔥👑

[Reygan Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am officially unwell. Per usual when I get the amazing opportunity to alpha read for MY queen - Emily Shore🖤

PLEASE NOTE : This is a deeply dark romance with heavy themes and graphic content. Please, please check the trigger warnings and author’s notes before diving in. Your mental health comes first—this story is beautiful but intense!

Emily has this insane talent for writing stories that absolutely wreck you, only to put you back together in the most beautiful, twisted way possible.
Briella is such a powerhouse; watching her take her trauma and forge it into something new while surrounded by these five “monsters” was incredible. And speaking of monsters... the guys?
• Seth: I didn't think anyone could rival my love for my favorite psycho from the Monstrous Boys series, but Seth has officially done it. He is the 'cute psycho' I didn't know I needed.
• The Doctor: As a wife of a former army medic, this hit home. Seeing how that specific type of healing and trauma-bonding played out was so unique and touched my heart.
• Vinny: A man who is a butcher but loves animals? Chef’s kiss!

This isn't just a 'why choose' romance; it’s a gritty, dark exploration of survival. & I’m freaking here for it!
I’ve already bothered Emily for part 2 already - don’t worry yall! 🖤

[Olivia Tabb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind blown, this book will have you on edge, but what is a good book without a couple psychos in it that will match your crazy. This book is not for the faint of heart so if you have some unresolved trauma this one might not be for you. But if this is one of your genres this author delivered over time and prepare to have new book husbands because no one is ever who they seem to be, totally panties on the floor or maybe ceiling . It starts with Briella getting chased by an ex when she literally runs into a group of men that not only destroys her ex they chose her as their next project. I won’t spoil it but just know baby girl gives as good as she gets. I really fell in love with the book because I know each psycho touches something inside her. They are slowly falling so I can’t wait until more of their past is revealed but also I’m looking forward to seeing how Ralph will handle everything especially now. The cliff hanger kinda messed me up cause I was waiting but I’m sooo ready for part 2.

[Jacklyn B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished part one of Queen of the Damned and it was so good!! Yes it’s dark and unhinged and has an extensive TW list (some of us call it a menu) that starts with a “run” and masks and…an axe. That is just the very beginning…

Briella is so strong and smart and witty and a total badass. My heart broke for what she had been through and then again what she goes through. The men are ruthless and brutal and have no interest in redemption….I would definitely say they are morally black…but also sometimes maybe…something else?? There are so many layers to these characters and I feel like there is still so much to unpack!!

And that ending!!!! I can’t wait for book 2!

✨What To Expect:
❤️‍🔥Why Choose
🥀Morally Black MMCs
🖤Literal Psychopath
🩺Ex-Military Doctor
🥊Brooding Ex-Fighter
🪓Lumberjack
💋Badass FMC
👀Dark Humor
❤️‍🩹Trauma
🔥Unhinged, Possessive & Obsessive MMCs
💀Unconventional Ladder

[Priscilla]

This is my first time doing an ARC read and I was NOT disappointed lol! im very glad I read the authors note and Im also glad I really dont have any triggers. this is also my first Emily Shore book and again, not disappointed! the writing was wonderful and the wild gets going right away, which I loved. I'm dying to continue this read because WHAT HAPPENS!!!???? I can usually see the way a book is going to an extent but this had me wondering at every single turn. The characters alone are amazing and Im captivated by all of them and the way they are bonding to her in their own way. I NEED MORE!!!

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

TYPE OF REVIEW BASE: 🖤 1. Sensual Fiction

Title: Queen Of The Damned: Part 1 (Standalone)
Author: Emily Shore
Genre: Dark Romance
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

● Tropes: Primal, MxM, MxF, Trauma Rep, 'Trigger heavy' (if you need to check those)

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Thoughts:

● TONE & THEMES:
Queen of the Damned carries heavy themes of survival. This is a concept that appears again and again - not just through Briella, but through the entire circle of men. Each of them has deep, dark backstories that we have yet to fully explore.
Emily Shore has a way of writing stories that tug at the soul; stories that speak to the quiet ache many of us carry. That matters here. While we may not find ourselves in situations like the characters do, many of us recognise the feelings beneath them - not being good enough, having to fight for yourself, holding yourself together just enough to avoid breaking or falling too far.
Despite the content, these books can feel oddly comforting. Like being seen in a strange, unexpected way. Like coming home to something familiar, and fitting into a shared understanding you didn’t realise you needed.


● PLOT & PACING:
The book appears to span roughly three weeks, with two of those weeks passing quickly through a time jump (something not unfamiliar in Emily Shore’s work). This isn’t always a bad thing, but I’m personally not a huge fan of time skips when we’ve only had about a week of on-page interaction before jumping straight into Briella being healed and ready to act. It felt like we missed out on scenes that could have added depth or enjoyment.

Example: After the skip, Jude mentioned that Briella had the choice of staying in his cabin, but chose Rory's instead. Before that, we only see her sharing a cabin with Rory, Vincent, and Seth, which made me wonder whether the other two were bypassed during the two skipped weeks, or did she end up staying with them off-page? Seemed a shame to skip over the man she trusts most, and the leader whom she both fears and finds herself intrigued with. Within such a short timeline, these gaps can become confusing and feel a little open-ended, making it harder to understand where certain dynamics truly stand.

Plot-wise, the story is currently more focused on learning the group dynamics. The men share a tight bond and were actively seeking a 'Queen' to complete them - a Queen they ultimately find in Briella, following a brutal initiation. As mentioned under themes, survival plays a huge role in the plot: emotional, physical, and psychological survival. It feels very much like a breakdown, fall apart, and rise stronger kind of story, one that I expect will continue to unfold in the next part.

At least at this stage, there doesn’t seem to be a heavy plot beyond Briella becoming part of the group and learning how to survive within it -- but that feels intentional for where the story is right now.

● CHARACTERS:
There are many characters in this book, with the main focus on the five men - Raphael, Jude, Vincent, Rory, and Seth - alongside Briella as the new initiate. Without going through everyone individually, I’ll say this: it’s always impressive when an author can juggle so many main characters and still give each of them a distinct personality and role.

Each man has a unique dynamic with the others: Raphael and Jude, Rory and Seth, Vincent and Jude. Raphael has a hold over them all as the group’s leader or ‘Alpha’. And Briella, in turn, forms different connections with each of them.

I found the most enjoyment in Rory and Seth; their upbeat, chaotic energy and dialogue kept the story feeling light even when things turned very dark.
Raphael and Jude felt grounded, confident, authoritative, and capable of handling situations even when those choices didn’t always feel right to the reader.
Vincent sat somewhere in between nurturing and protective, but more reserved, clearly needing time and space to open up.

At first, I thought Briella might fall into the typical 'captured damsel’ role (that I can also appreciate in some stories) especially based on her reactions to her ex, but it quickly became clear that it wasn’t fully about her ex; it was about her trauma, her past, and everything she’s had to fight through to be free; the ex just happens to be tied to it.
Briella will fight tooth and nail (literally), and she gives as good as she gets. She’s a remarkable survivor: quick-witted, clever, and calculated in her own way. That said, she still has a lot to overcome, and I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for her in Part Two, especially as I hope we get more backstory for everyone.

● CHEMISTRY & SPICE:
This is a major part of the book. While the chemistry varies across the many relationships, what stands out most is 'kinship', a word that comes up often but feels perfectly suited to this group.

Individually, the spice is fun and engaging. Each character knows how to balance their partner(s), when to step in, and when to let the chaos run its course. The spice starts quite heavy, especially if you’re not used to reading this style, but softens over the book as Briella is given healing time. That shift isn’t a bad thing, for it allows space for the relationships themselves to develop without it all being based on smut.
I hope the next part continues this balance -- keeping the spice, but not losing the importance of communication and connection, especially given the short timeline.

There are MxM scenes throughout the book, and they never feel forced. The relationships between the men differ naturally, shaped by shared hardship, camaraderie, and loyalty. These bonds feel lived-in and believable, not mere showmanship.

Another side of chemistry comes through humour; in the pranks, banter, and dialogue -- particularly between Briella, Rory, and Seth. The nicknames, teasing, and tense-but-heated moments were some of my favourite scenes. They add so much personality, especially in a story where the plot is quieter.

● WRITING:
Given the fast pacing and large cast, a lot had to be packed into a short space, but it was handled well. Every character received multiple POV moments, so it never felt like anyone was consistently sidelined or forgotten. Not noticeably anyway.

The writing style was mostly smooth and engaging, and it held my attention throughout. There were only a few moments where I had to reread due to repeated actions (a mere double-throwing of a sponge, etc.) or slight confusion around positioning (at a dining table), but nothing that pulled me out of the story for long.

I LOVED the dialogue in this book. It was so beautifully written in many conversations or thoughts; Very poetic. It really brought the characters to life and gave each of them an individual voice, which I always appreciate in stories with such a heavy character focus.


● FINAL NOTES:
Overall, I found this to be a delightful read. My only real want is that the timelines in the Savage Stalker books were longer. Across all of these books, things move very quickly; sometimes it feels like there isn’t quite enough space to sit with one scene before we’re thrown into the next -- often with emotions or dynamics already shifted.

That said, I’m still invested and very curious to see where the story goes next.

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QUOTES:
1.

“He bit me. I bit him back. Simple as that.”

2.

“Five Gods among men who have conquered hell and brought you down to meet all your lovely, dark demons.”

3.

“She's a beautiful little soul carrying a ghost. One that has seen horrors, perhaps darker than ours.”

4.

“We were born in blood, sharing the same trauma bonds, the same damnation. We clawed, spit, and scraped through that hellhole together, and what we couldn't kill, we carried. They're not just brothers. They're my chains and my scars.”

5.

“She's not ready to run. But she will. And when she does, I will hunt her like I hunt all my prey.”

6.

“...but it's still a cage. Isn't it? God, it's dangerous how easily it creeps in. Safety, Security, things I haven't had in so long. I forgot what it felt like to not flinch at every sound.”

[Hannah Middaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

🖤⛏️ 4-STAR REVIEW: Queen of the Damned by Emily Shore ⛏️🖤

Queen of the Damned is not a light read—and it’s not meant to be. From the very beginning, this book throws you straight into the dark and never lets up. If you’re looking for morally black characters, brutal circumstances, and a story that sits heavy in your chest the entire time, this one absolutely delivers.

The pacing surprised me in the best way. It started at what I can only describe as a solid level 5 of intensity and ended at a level 10. There is no easing into this world—Emily Shore drops you into the mine with Briella and dares you to survive alongside her.

Briella has already been through hell long before the five men enter her life, and while her situation only gets more horrifying, her resilience stood out. Watching her adapt, endure, and slowly reclaim pieces of herself was compelling, even when everything around her was brutal and suffocating.

As for the Damned themselves—every single one of them is morally black and deeply unwell. These men don’t pretend to be heroes, and the story never asks you to excuse their actions. The moments where they show humanity or decency are few and far between, but when they do happen, they hit harder because of it. By the end, I found myself unexpectedly drawn to one or two of them—and that realization really underscored how well the author captured Briella’s emotional shift. A great author makes you feel what the main character feels, and as Briella slowly begins to fall for all five men despite everything, I felt that internal conflict right alongside her.

The atmosphere is oppressive, violent, and intense, but it’s also immersive. The off-the-grid compound, the twisted kinship law, and the power dynamics all work together to create a world that feels inescapable—and that’s exactly the point.

The cliffhanger ending? Cruel. Effective. I immediately needed the next book.

Overall, Queen of the Damned is dark, relentless, and emotionally heavy. It’s not an easy read, and it won’t be for everyone, but it does exactly what it sets out to do. I’m absolutely continuing the series, because I need to know where Briella’s story goes from here.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 4 — Brutal, immersive, and unapologetically dark.

[Leisel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of those books that completely consumed me — the kind where you tell yourself you’ll just read the synopsis in preparation for tomorrow… and then suddenly it’s the middle of the night and you’re still turning pages.

My original plan was to simply get a feel for the story before starting properly the next day. Instead, my need to see just how dark and twisted Briella’s journey would become kept me awake far longer than intended. I had to know not only how she would survive that first night, but how she would begin to process — and ultimately accept — the sheer darkness and depravity her five “monsters” unleashed.
As with all true dark romances, this story comes with triggers that readers should absolutely be mindful of. There are scenes that strike hard and bring the narrative to its emotional pulse point. This is not a light read. It is raw, confronting, and unapologetically intense.

The characters are compelling in the most unsettling way — five deeply troubled, morally complex dark alphas paired with a young woman who carries her own shadows. Their histories add layers that make the story far more than shock value. It becomes complex, psychological, and emotionally charged. You find yourself questioning how you can enjoy something so morally twisted — and yet you do.

This is not a fluffy marshmallow romance. It will test your resolve, push your comfort zones, and challenge your emotional limits. But somehow, within all that darkness, it still delivers a strange sense of satisfaction and anticipation.
I absolutely loved Briella. She is flawed, scarred, yet fiercely resilient. There’s a quiet strength in her survival instinct that pulls you in and makes you desperate to see her rise.

As this is only Part One, be prepared — you will be left in the dark, hanging, wondering how everything will unfold for Briella and her five monsters. But one thing feels certain… the Queen is going to rise to her full power.
And I, for one, cannot wait for the next instalment. 🔥👑

[Michelle Starika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me preface this with saying that I’m trying to make my reviews better. I always feel that they’re not up to par. So, I’m trying.🙂

I read this book in one sitting. I couldn’t stop turning the pages. This got its hooks in me just by reading the blurb and knowing that Emily Shore wrote it.

I digress.
This is definitely in the morally black group with the why choose, unhinged, sexy af men with muscles that never end. And I’m pretty sure I need to be tested because I agree with some very questionable decisions. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Hopefully we’ll get a more in depth peek at the guys stories from their past that made them the way they are. I definitely want to know how Raphael saved his brothers—since that’s what made him the “Alpha”. All decisions are ran through him. He always has final say.

And Briella, in short, she’s a badass. Such a sassy sarcastic mouth. I think the guys needed someone who has been through it and understands. And still comes out standing tall. I think that without her past trauma, she’d never have made it through Initiation.

I thought that Initiation was rough. I thought it was more than well written. And it could’ve been much worse. But they wanted a Queen. Someone that’s strong willed, who wants to live. Someone who will surrender to them—to give them her jagged, broken pieces and let them re-make her—put her back together even stronger. So now Briella isn’t only a sassy badass, she’s their Queen. Now they just have to make her see it and believe it.

100% can’t wait to read the next part!

[Destiny Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dark, brutal, unhinged—and impossible to put down

Queen of the Damned is not a gentle read, and it doesn’t pretend to be. From the first page, Emily Shore drags you headfirst into a world of violence, trauma, and morally black characters—and then dares you to look away. I couldn’t.

Briella is a survivor in the rawest sense. Her journey isn’t pretty or easy, and that’s exactly what makes it compelling. She’s thrown into absolute darkness, surrounded by men who are unapologetically monsters, yet she refuses to stay broken. Watching her fight, adapt, and slowly reclaim power was both heartbreaking and addictive.

The Damned themselves are terrifying, fascinating, and disturbingly charismatic. Each one feels distinct, dangerous, and fully realized. There are no heroes here—only blood-soaked loyalty, twisted bonds, and a warped sense of protection that somehow feels earned. The “why choose” dynamic is intense, dark, and emotional, not just spicy for the sake of it.

This book leans hard into its themes: captivity, vengeance, trauma, and healing in the most unconventional ways. If you’re looking for soft romance or clear moral lines, this is not it. But if you love dark romance that commits, characters who bite back, and stories that make you uncomfortable in the best way—this book delivers.

Check the trigger warnings, clear your schedule, and maybe keep your therapist on speed dial.
Emily Shore absolutely understood the assignment.

[Persephone Roze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy bananas. This was a deliriously unhinged, nasty, formidable, fantastic work of art. I breathed this book like it was my only source of air.

Please take care of yourself, the menu - I mean trigger warning list - is so important in this dark trauma. The mental game is strong and this book will rip you apart, especially playing with your trauma demons.

I absolutely devoured this book. Brielle is a goddess, a spicy, sassy, breath of fresh air that made me giggle, made me breath deep with her strength and fight, and just brought me so much satisfaction. Our 5 unhinged dark gods were absolutely delicious, totally frustrating, diabolical, and just touched my core. The storyline, the trauma bonding, the overall character arcs were hard and sometimes I had to step back and breathe through my own struggle connections, but this story was powerful. I often find Emily's books help pieces of me heal that I didn't realize needed that. They speak to me and help me to see some truths. She never disappoints and I'm so grateful for her stories and that she doesn't hold back her own journey through them.

The smut in this book was off the charts, super extended scenes of steaminess between our unhinged characters. It did not feel like it was all smut, but the heat was fantastic. I could not put this book down and I am so deliriously needy for book 2. Very worth the read.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars, received ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am grateful for the opportunity since it has been a while since I ARC read.

I read this quite quickly since it was entertaining but was honestly expecting it to be darker with more smut lol. I did really enjoy the characters, esp the heroine who is literally a FIRECRACKER that matches the dudes' insane energy, and I am all for her banter with Rory lol. And the ear thing, IYKYK. The characters were great, distinct and fun to watch them interact. It is giving more dystopian vibes with the off grid cabin in the woods and cult themes, but I am here for it.

Overall, I had some issues with the long declarations of them being horrible people, devils, gods and queens and stuff but it didn't make me rate the book lower. I guess I am really messed up to think this was quite light lol, but darkness is a subjective scale, and I'd put this one in the darker dark romance category, not quite pitch black.

I am interested in reading the sequel when I get the ARC though, wanting to see how it ends and all of them really coming together.

[Kamisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think its important to state that this book has extreme trigger warnings. Please, please, please look at them first!

Briella meets the 5 MMCs when she is running away from her ex-fiance through a redwood forest. They decide to keep her and put her through a brutal Initiation that no other woman has survived. What follows is the push and pull of Briella coming to terms with the trauma and hate she feels for these 5 guys while also feeling like she has found a place where she belongs and can be herself, demons and all.

Some of the things that took away from the story was the fact that it did seem a bit repetitive in the dialogue and the conversations over “Kinship law”. I also wish there was a bit more background. I felt like the majority of the book was the Initiation, and I really wanted to feel more of a connection to the MC’s.

I enjoyed this book even though some scenes were pretty intense. I like it enough to read the second book because I like each of the MMCs individually and want to know how it ends (first book ends on a cliffhanger).

With that said, I plan to read the next book as soon as possible!

Thank you to the author for this e-ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before reading PLEASE check the trigger warnings. This book is dark and depraved and not for everyone. Your mental health matters.

Once again Emily Shore has stolen my sleep. I could not put this book down. House work went undone and stayed up late until it was finished. The book hangover was worth it though.
Briella is the main female character. Sassy and with a wicked sense of humour. The pranks she pulls on everyone, especially Rory, are pure diabolical.
There are 5 men, who she doesn’t have to choose between. Each with their own messed up background that has made them who they are. Raphael, Vincent, Seth, Rory and Jude. The sociopath, ex underground fighter, lumberjack, psycho, and ex combat medic. An eclectic mix that keeps you captivated until the very last page.
The smut is off the charts. I’m talking chapters of smexy scenes but with lots of plot too. This book will make you laugh out loud, feel hot and bothered and pull on the heartstrings. Book 2 can’t come out soon enough.

[Gabrielle Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please be aware and read the trigger warnings for this book. This story is not for the faint of heart. There is no unicorns and rainbow romance to be found and no redemptions.

Briella is a survivor and what these men put her through is brutal. You will not like these men in the beginning but you will see that there is something there that Briella begins to awaken in them. She is strong woman and will not go down without a fight. I enjoyed seeing Briella begin to bring the humanity out in these men. Each man is different and their scars and personalities are deep. This book moves at a good pace and pulled me in right from the start. I hope that we get to see more from each character’s past to understand why they are the way they are and how they got to where they are now. The men have a strong bond and as crazy as they are, in their own way Briana is safe with them, up to a point. This first book gives the readers the introduction of how Briella came in to their world and I am eager to see what will happen next.

[Mikayla Morales · Rating 4 out of 5]

** ARC REVIEW **

This book is DARK and I’m here for it. Check the trigger warnings because this one will fuck you up if you’re not prepared. This book also has a lot of same sex relations which some people may or may not like. I wasn’t prepared for those scenes but I didn’t mind them.

Briella’s character was well written. I loved the wittiness, her banter with Rory, her purple hair and appearance description. The relationships described with each character made me forget what actually happened and why they should not be redeemable people. The initiation is definitely difficult to read (if you have triggers; thankfully i don’t). The details of the scenes in this book is gruesome but i loved it.

I wish the book went into more detail and explained the Kinship Laws better and just lay them out. I want to know about the brothers and why Raphael is the leader and what he did to make the others just fall in line so easily. I want to know more about Briella’s background. I need book number two like NOW.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of the Damned: Part One - Consider this your book if trigger warnings are menu options to be selected. ⚠️⚠️⚠️

I read this book in less than 24 hours!! There is excellent characters, storyline, tons and tons, and well TONS of sex - morally gray men, sword crossing, dark themes, but Emily kept me turning pages from start to finish for what happens next.

I’m not so patiently waiting for the arrival of Part Two. This will forever remain in one of my top favorite dark romance, reverse harem, morally dark gray books. This masterpiece is a must read for 2026 if you love any or all the above themes.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Please don’t forget to read the menu….or trigger warnings LOL

My small final warning - this isn’t for those who are faint of heart, no pearl clutching readers. Emily Shore as usual delivers excellent storylines, characters, vivid smut scenes, and the splashes of humor I have loved.

I NEED Part 2! 😂🤣😂

[Bethany Bednar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Queen of The Damned Part One. This story sucked me in and held me captive until the end... and I still can't get it out of my head!
I absolutely love the characters, and how distinct they are. I've read a lot of books when all of the men are kinda the same and very similar. Well, these boys are very distinct!
Sweet Jude the medic. Unhinged Rory loves liquor and ass. The night he shared a bed with Briella!! Sweet and funny Sethy baby with his tools. Quiet and caring Vinny with his sparkly jacket. Raphael, the big boss of them all. His whole old school mobster look had me swooning!
And finally Briella herself. Just as unhinged as the men. The pranks she pulls had me squealing and kicking my legs! I have never met a FMC like Briella darling. Refuses to back down against any of them.
Cliffhangers piss me off, only because I don't have part two readily available! I am telling you, I screamed at the end. Almost threw my phone and cried. I need more!

[Beckreadz25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my f-ing God! I received this book as an ARC, and I was hooked from page 1.

5 broken, beautiful demons and 1 physically and emotionally damaged woman collide in a hot, erotic, and at times disturbing ways that bind them together.

Briella thinks she's unworthy of being wanted or loved. Raphael, Jude, Seth, Rory, and Vincent are monsters, black-hearted brothers straight out of Hell who live only for each other....until her.

This book is not for the faint of heart. You see triggers, I see a black menu of giddy up we're in for a ride! It has CNC, BDSM, torture, and every kind of fluid play. Murder, mayhem, and even some sadistic pranks. Nothing is off the table.

I couldn't put this book down, and I am dying to know what is next for Briella and her men. Another gem from Emily! March can't cone fast enough!

[Chevyionnie Akeem · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟ARC REVIEWER🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Im a person who like the darkest of dark books and have no triggers but this book… this book right here i couldnt put down. I was throughly intrigued.

These Characters are not redeemable in the traditional sense but it works for them. I would of liked a little more on Joah to understand his part a little better though, i also would of liked the kinship laws spelled out a little better though.

Brielle is witty and hilarious. I love her personality. I seen parts of myself with each character and it was a bit comforting to read (weird ik) all in all. I will be purchasing a physical copy and cant wait for book 2!!!

The spice 5 🌶️ the story 5 ⭐️ I personally would’ve liked for the kinship laws to be spelled out a little more.

I CANT STRESS THIS ENOUGH PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGERS BEFORE READING

[Ellie Meachem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 13 of 2026
(ETA review..)
ARC read for @emilybshore only 13% in but woahhhh.. I love a slow burn, world/character building read but every now and then a STRAIGHT TO IT book stops me in my tracks!

Review… This book took me only hours to get through, I couldn’t put it down! TRIGGER WARNINGS THOUGH PEOPLE! Pitch black read, NOT for the faint of heart, but I loved it!
Hook, line and sinker I was done.There’s no messing around with this one you are thrown right in the deep end immediately and left on an absolute cliffhanger from hell BUT one full of deadly promise. If you love a deadly, darker than dark read then this one’s for you. I don’t like to give away what goes on in a book but have to say this is unlike any I’ve read yet! Itching for part two!!!

#pitchblack #darkromance #reading #bookstagrammer #triggerwarning

[Krista Plaugher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me in a chokehold from chapter one.

When I say morally black, I mean morally BLACK. No apologies. No softening the edges. Just raw, dark, delicious chaos — and I ate it up. The tension? Filthy. The power dynamics? Unhinged in the best way. The forbidden elements? Exactly the kind that make you whisper “I shouldn’t like this…” while turning the page anyway.

But let’s be real — this is not a fluffy romance. If you struggle with heavy triggers or can’t separate yourself from the heroine’s experience, this might hit too hard. It’s intense. It’s messy. It’s dark in a way that doesn’t blink.

I finished this in one day because I physically could not put it down. Every chapter ended with me saying “just one more” until suddenly it was 2 a.m.

I need book two immediately. Like… yesterday.

[Sarah Poquette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book... What can I say about this book.... First of all, please, PLEASE, for your sanity and mental health double check the trigger warnings. Yes, they are there. Yes, the author made sure to put them *in detail* to be certain you are warned. If you fail to read them you can't go back and say you didn't know.

That being said I am in LOVE with this book. The characters jump off the page, the writing draws you in and pulls emotions from you that you didn't think was possible, only to ravage your emotions with the next page. Thankfully the author knew we would need head pats and soft murmurs in between. I am in awe of what I felt, of the tears that were shed over fantasy characters and the desire to find out the rest of the story that ended far too soon. I can't wait for the next! And to you, Emily Shore, I tip my news cap :)

[Jomy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Queen of the Damned by Emily Shore completely swept me into its dark, powerful world. The atmosphere is intense and immersive, filled with tension, ambition, and that constant sense of looming danger. From the very beginning, the stakes feel high, and the emotional weight behind every decision makes the story impossible to ignore. I was fully locked in, needing to see how everything would unfold.

The characters are fierce, layered, and driven, especially the queen at the center of it all. There’s strength, vulnerability, and a sharp edge that makes every interaction feel meaningful. The blend of power struggles, loyalty, and dark romance creates a story that feels bold and unforgettable. If you love fantasy with intensity, emotion, and a commanding female lead, this one absolutely delivers

[Leslie Soch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the pleasure of reading many of Emily's books.  This book hooked me so fast, and I consumed it, just like it consumed me.

Please be aware of all trigger warnings, and keep your mental health intact!
This is book 1 of 2, and it does not disappoint!

This is an RH with 5 crazy, strong, intoxicating men, and 1 fiercely strong woman. 

Brielle has had a tough life, we learn bits and pieces of what she has endured.  Raphael, Jude, Vincent, Rory and Seth have a bond(s) that cannot be ruined.  They find Briella running from her ex through the forest, and save her - or do they damn her instead??

Emily Shore has a way of bringing you completely into the worlds she creates, and I cannot wait for part 2 of this story!

[Amanda Schaperow · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I had the pleasure of reading this book as an ARC**

First and foremost please read the trigger warning or as I call them my shopping list

FMC- Briella is such a strong woman who had overcome some trauma that we have not been told yet in book one but the way she reacts to these men you can tell that she is a survivor.

I can see why this is a why choose- the men in this book have had some crazy trauma as well but live their lives with no f*cks given. Red and Vinny are my fave in this book.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat and so intrigued In the story that I could not put it down and read it in one day.

**Emily - Bravo on another amazing story , I cannot wait to see what happens in Book 2 ❤️❤️ you are one of my top 3 favorite authors

[Alisha Pascual · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, unhinged, depraved. There was more of it than in the first two books in this series. When I read the tropes, I was not expecting it to surpass the other books on how dark this went! I loved the characters so much! The alpha MMC, Raphael—a literal psychopath and a commanding hunter. His second-in-command, Jude—an ex-military calculating doctor, followed by Vincent—tortured and broody ex-fighter, Rory—sociopathic, crazy, butcher/cook, and Seth—intense, nice guy lumberjack. And Briella, the broken but not broken FMC that has had a traumatic past like the others but trying to find her place amongst the world. So much unhinged and depraved things being done and said. And so much emotions. Argh I can’t wait for book 2! Loved

[Sarah Van Vleet · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with any book that comes with trigger warnings, please please please check them over. Your mental health always comes first.

That being said, I had the utmost pleasure of arc reading this jewel of a book. I was kept on the edge, waiting to see how Briella handled the men, her sass always had me laughing. This is a two part book and I cannot wait for the second book to come out fast enough.

The FMC has been through a lot and it shows with how strong she has to be to survive. Each of the men come with their own trauma, which makes them live their lives by their rules. The men’s reckoning comes in female form, after what they put her through. Her pranks against Red become priceless, she could live her life as their queen, if she decides to stop running and stay.

[Dakota Sinkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is phenomenal. It has so many different tropes (the main ones being why choose and reverse harem). The FMCs past and what she’s currently going thru is very dark. The MMCs are so dark and broody. The inner turmoil of the characters is well written and sucks you in to the plot. Without giving any spoilers I would recommend checking the trigger warnings because this book isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s not the darkest book I’ve read but it is dark. But at the same time it’s also funny. The banter is well written and made me laugh to the point of forgetting how dark the beginning of the book was. It gets lighter as the book goes on but based on how the book ended I think part 2 will be darker and more serious. Part 1 obviously ends on a cliff hanger and I can’t wait for part 2!

[Valeria Rangel · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMGOSH!!!! Where to begin on this review, without giving away too many details. This was my first read by this author, and wow just wow. I loved every minute of it and found that I really liked Briella. I loved how she got back at Rory. Loved the pit chapter and how she became crafty with what she had on hand. I liked how the author gave each of the guys their time in the light and how detailed she was on their roles in the group. Her deep connection with Raphael is what intrigues me the most. I kind of figured that she would self sabotage, as many of us tend to do when happiness is within reach. I am definitely interested in being a part of the ARC for part 2 of this book. I want to see how their relationships evolve and how they intend to put each other back together after breaking.