What do you think?
Rate this book
Blackshear
Mackenzie Hamill has been running her entire life—from a past soaked in blood, and from a legacy that refuses to stay buried.
Camp Blackshear was supposed to be her sanctuary.
A place of summer dreams, stolen kisses, and first love.
For seven summers, her life becomes entangled with Max McKinnon, her best friend, her protector, her constant.
But the woods don’t forget.
And neither do the men who watch them.
As their connection deepens, the line between love and obsession fractures.
Protection sharpens into control.
And trust becomes a weapon that cuts both ways.
When the games turn deadly, survival demands loyalty, silence, and blood.
Facing the darkness together is the only rule,
until it isn’t.
At Camp Blackshear, first love doesn’t just linger.
It hunts.
Camp Blackshear was supposed to be her sanctuary.
A place of summer dreams, stolen kisses, and first love.
For seven summers, her life becomes entangled with Max McKinnon, her best friend, her protector, her constant.
But the woods don’t forget.
And neither do the men who watch them.
As their connection deepens, the line between love and obsession fractures.
Protection sharpens into control.
And trust becomes a weapon that cuts both ways.
When the games turn deadly, survival demands loyalty, silence, and blood.
Facing the darkness together is the only rule,
until it isn’t.
At Camp Blackshear, first love doesn’t just linger.
It hunts.
- GenresDark Romance
ebook
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
M.E. Mason
2 books19 followersM.E.Mason is an award-winning former journalist with over 15 years of experience in marketing, public relations, and writing for television, film, and nonprofit communications. Her work has been featured in over 100 magazines, newspapers, and local, national, and international news. A former homicide reporter, she spent years covering crime beats, giving her a front-row seat to the darker sides of human nature—experiences that now fuel her dark, twisty romances.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 9, 2026
3.25🌟, 3🌶️
I just wrapped up Blackshear, and honestly, I am still processing that wild ending.
The atmosphere at the camp is incredibly eerie and kept me on edge the entire time, which I absolutely loved. The slow-burn tension between the main characters was so addictive that I found myself ignoring everything else just to see where their relationship would go next.
That being said, it was a bit of a mixed bag for me. While the chemistry and suspense kept me hooked, the plot started to feel a little rushed toward the end and the bigger mystery felt somewhat underdeveloped. I also struggled with some of the characters' choices, though I suppose that intensity is expected given how young they are. It was a messy web, but I was definitely invested enough to keep reading through the bumps.
Even with those flaws, I really enjoyed the overall vibe of the story. It is not your typical romance, and the cliffhanger was absolutely brutal in a way that makes me want to jump into the next book immediately just for some answers.
If you can handle a darker, moody atmosphere with a side of mystery, this is definitely worth picking up for the drama alone.
~~~~
Special thanks to M. E. Mason and Happily Booked PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
I just wrapped up Blackshear, and honestly, I am still processing that wild ending.
The atmosphere at the camp is incredibly eerie and kept me on edge the entire time, which I absolutely loved. The slow-burn tension between the main characters was so addictive that I found myself ignoring everything else just to see where their relationship would go next.
That being said, it was a bit of a mixed bag for me. While the chemistry and suspense kept me hooked, the plot started to feel a little rushed toward the end and the bigger mystery felt somewhat underdeveloped. I also struggled with some of the characters' choices, though I suppose that intensity is expected given how young they are. It was a messy web, but I was definitely invested enough to keep reading through the bumps.
Even with those flaws, I really enjoyed the overall vibe of the story. It is not your typical romance, and the cliffhanger was absolutely brutal in a way that makes me want to jump into the next book immediately just for some answers.
If you can handle a darker, moody atmosphere with a side of mystery, this is definitely worth picking up for the drama alone.
~~~~
Special thanks to M. E. Mason and Happily Booked PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
June 25, 2026
I need a few more days to process this book because it took me on such an emotional rollercoaster. There was so much happening that I couldn’t stop reading. The mystery around MacKenzie’s past, the romance with Max that made me want to shout, “Just get together already!” and the suspense of someone always watching at Blackshear kept me turning the pages. I’m still upset about the ending, talk about a cliffhanger! Now I have to wait until 2027 to find out what happens next. I have so many questions, and I need book 2 now!
Thank you to Books and Bloom PR and M.E. Mason for the opportunity to review Blackshear. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Books and Bloom PR and M.E. Mason for the opportunity to review Blackshear. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 13, 2026
Thank you to M.E. Mason, Happily Booked PR, and the publisher for the ARC.
I don’t even know how to explain my feelings about this book 😭.
The atmosphere at Camp Blackshear was SO good. Creepy summer camp vibes, secrets everywhere, people acting suspicious… it immediately pulled me in.
And listen… I was INVESTED.
Every chapter felt like there was another secret, another twist, another person I couldn’t trust. I kept reading because I needed answers.
The problem is I’m not sure I actually got them 😂.
There were so many moving pieces by the end that I started feeling confused more than shocked. I kept waiting for that big moment where everything clicked together and instead I finished the book with about fifty questions.
And Mackenzie and Max?
Y’all are exhausting.
The amount of back and forth between them had me wanting to lock them in a room and tell them to figure it out already.
I really liked the mystery, the tension, and the creepy atmosphere, but I wanted more explanation about what was actually going on and how everything connected.
Still… the fact that I’m sitting here thinking about it means it did something right.
Will I be reading book two?
Absolutely.
Because now I need answers.
I don’t even know how to explain my feelings about this book 😭.
The atmosphere at Camp Blackshear was SO good. Creepy summer camp vibes, secrets everywhere, people acting suspicious… it immediately pulled me in.
And listen… I was INVESTED.
Every chapter felt like there was another secret, another twist, another person I couldn’t trust. I kept reading because I needed answers.
The problem is I’m not sure I actually got them 😂.
There were so many moving pieces by the end that I started feeling confused more than shocked. I kept waiting for that big moment where everything clicked together and instead I finished the book with about fifty questions.
And Mackenzie and Max?
Y’all are exhausting.
The amount of back and forth between them had me wanting to lock them in a room and tell them to figure it out already.
I really liked the mystery, the tension, and the creepy atmosphere, but I wanted more explanation about what was actually going on and how everything connected.
Still… the fact that I’m sitting here thinking about it means it did something right.
Will I be reading book two?
Absolutely.
Because now I need answers.
June 11, 2026
ARC Review
I ate this book up!!! The mystery, the thriller, the romance, the action! Sooooo good! I can’t wait to see what book two has to offer! I have so many questions that need answers!
I ate this book up!!! The mystery, the thriller, the romance, the action! Sooooo good! I can’t wait to see what book two has to offer! I have so many questions that need answers!
Read
June 5, 2026What a ride!! This book kept you on your toes the whole time! Keeps you wondering and guessing just what is going to happen and had me hooked!
June 19, 2026
Blackshear was an interesting and okay read 🤍 Max and Mackenzie have a clear connection, and though they try to fight and ignore it, that isn’t possible! The plot moves more on the quick side, with twists and turns that I didn’t see coming 😯 However, the characters were both quite flip-floppy when it came to their thoughts and feelings towards one another, and that was something I didn’t particularly like, along with bits of Max’s personality and how he treated Mackenzie and her feelings at times. There were also a few moments that didn’t fully make sense to me or felt difficult to believe, and some plot points left me wanting more clarity.
Mackenzie still has fight in her after everything she went through, and her strength is very admirable when she is still struggling with her past—in a very real and human way ❤️🩹 I found her to be strong however her character and thoughts did bother me a good bit. Instead of choosing to be with Max, it felt like Mackenzie wanted to fight their connection and push him away repeatedly. She has these negative thoughts about him leaving her if he learns more about her and her past, but I personally don’t understand how she could’ve felt that way, specifically with some of Max’s actions, but with some of his words too. Her thoughts and feelings towards Max were too back and forth for me, but I did like some parts of her character 🤍
Max is protective of Mackenzie and was funny and sweet at times 🤍 He has sensitive and vulnerable sides to him, and while sometimes they were sweet, sometimes heartbreaking, even though he is younger, I did feel sometimes he was acting more on the immature side. More so, I really, really didn’t like when he had the thought of “please don’t do this right now,” in response to Mackenzie looking jealous because another woman was right up against him… Especially when it was described as “her presence suffocatingly close.” I think Mackenzie was justified in her jealousy, and I didn’t appreciate that Max’s character seemed to disregard that multiple times throughout the story, with the same other woman too. He appears to care for Mackenzie, and has a clear and strong connection to her, and he did show that devotion and care at points, but regrettably I felt like some of his actions ended up portraying the direct opposite.
This was an alright read that had an interesting plot, with tension, mystery, and twists and turns 🤍 The story flowed at a quicker pace, but although I found the story interesting, I couldn’t connect with the characters, and wanted more from the plot itself. I really wanted them to get together once they started getting closer, but it felt like she kept stopping things and changing her mind about him. I also really did not like some aspects of Max’s character, and found them to be disrespectful towards Mackenzie.
Mackenzie still has fight in her after everything she went through, and her strength is very admirable when she is still struggling with her past—in a very real and human way ❤️🩹 I found her to be strong however her character and thoughts did bother me a good bit. Instead of choosing to be with Max, it felt like Mackenzie wanted to fight their connection and push him away repeatedly. She has these negative thoughts about him leaving her if he learns more about her and her past, but I personally don’t understand how she could’ve felt that way, specifically with some of Max’s actions, but with some of his words too. Her thoughts and feelings towards Max were too back and forth for me, but I did like some parts of her character 🤍
Max is protective of Mackenzie and was funny and sweet at times 🤍 He has sensitive and vulnerable sides to him, and while sometimes they were sweet, sometimes heartbreaking, even though he is younger, I did feel sometimes he was acting more on the immature side. More so, I really, really didn’t like when he had the thought of “please don’t do this right now,” in response to Mackenzie looking jealous because another woman was right up against him… Especially when it was described as “her presence suffocatingly close.” I think Mackenzie was justified in her jealousy, and I didn’t appreciate that Max’s character seemed to disregard that multiple times throughout the story, with the same other woman too. He appears to care for Mackenzie, and has a clear and strong connection to her, and he did show that devotion and care at points, but regrettably I felt like some of his actions ended up portraying the direct opposite.
This was an alright read that had an interesting plot, with tension, mystery, and twists and turns 🤍 The story flowed at a quicker pace, but although I found the story interesting, I couldn’t connect with the characters, and wanted more from the plot itself. I really wanted them to get together once they started getting closer, but it felt like she kept stopping things and changing her mind about him. I also really did not like some aspects of Max’s character, and found them to be disrespectful towards Mackenzie.
June 6, 2026
OH. MY. GOD! I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up Blackshear by M.E. Mason, but it delivered so much more than I imagined. What a wild ride! This is the first book in the A Shatter in the Woods series, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. Dark? Yes. Tension, danger, obsession? Also, yes. If you find yourself yelling, “Wait, what is happening?” or “NO, don’t do that!” while reading, just know that is part of the experience.
I can’t say too much more about the plot without giving things away, and this is definitely a book best experienced with as few spoilers as possible. I could not put it down.
Mackenzie is the daughter of a serial killer, and she and her mom are “rescued” by the FBI and placed into protection—which already felt suspicious, considering witness protection usually comes with a name change. She meets Max at a camp in Georgia when they are twelve, and over the years their friendship grows into something much deeper during their final summer there. I loved Mackenzie as the FMC. She is full of secrets, pain, survival instincts, and a quiet longing for a normal life. And her connection with Max was raw, emotional, possessive, heartbreaking, beautiful, and incredibly intense.
There’s some kind of evil society, government corruption, and teens and college-age kids forced to survive on their own. No one can trust anyone. And good lord, the secrets, the miscommunication, and the mistrust are everywhere. It was so good, but also frustrating and terrifying in the best way. Unhinged, but in a good way. The chemistry was excellent, the obsession was intense, and the back-and-forth kept me hooked. Every new reveal led to five more questions, and nothing felt predictable. The suspense had me reading straight through to the end.
The setting of Camp Blackshear also deserves its own acknowledgment: eerie, haunting, and the kind of atmosphere that lingers long after you turn the last page.
There were so many twists, turns, and spicy moments that I cannot wait to talk about this one with everyone else who has read it. Fair warning, though: there is a cliffhanger, and the next book is not out until 2027! I have already set myself a reminder because my need to piece together all the clues is very real.
If you love thrillers, suspense, second-chance romance, best friends to lovers, an obsessive and possessive MMC, secrets, secret societies, and trying to piece everything together, then you do not want to miss this one!
I can’t say too much more about the plot without giving things away, and this is definitely a book best experienced with as few spoilers as possible. I could not put it down.
Mackenzie is the daughter of a serial killer, and she and her mom are “rescued” by the FBI and placed into protection—which already felt suspicious, considering witness protection usually comes with a name change. She meets Max at a camp in Georgia when they are twelve, and over the years their friendship grows into something much deeper during their final summer there. I loved Mackenzie as the FMC. She is full of secrets, pain, survival instincts, and a quiet longing for a normal life. And her connection with Max was raw, emotional, possessive, heartbreaking, beautiful, and incredibly intense.
There’s some kind of evil society, government corruption, and teens and college-age kids forced to survive on their own. No one can trust anyone. And good lord, the secrets, the miscommunication, and the mistrust are everywhere. It was so good, but also frustrating and terrifying in the best way. Unhinged, but in a good way. The chemistry was excellent, the obsession was intense, and the back-and-forth kept me hooked. Every new reveal led to five more questions, and nothing felt predictable. The suspense had me reading straight through to the end.
The setting of Camp Blackshear also deserves its own acknowledgment: eerie, haunting, and the kind of atmosphere that lingers long after you turn the last page.
There were so many twists, turns, and spicy moments that I cannot wait to talk about this one with everyone else who has read it. Fair warning, though: there is a cliffhanger, and the next book is not out until 2027! I have already set myself a reminder because my need to piece together all the clues is very real.
If you love thrillers, suspense, second-chance romance, best friends to lovers, an obsessive and possessive MMC, secrets, secret societies, and trying to piece everything together, then you do not want to miss this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, thank you so much for allowing me to ARC read this in exchange for my honest review—I’m always grateful for the opportunity, but WOW… this book absolutely put me through it.
Secondly… ARGHHHHHHHH!!! THAT ENDING. Excuse me?! The emotional damage?! The audacity?! The wait for the next book is going to be absolutely brutal, and I already know I’m going to be over here impatiently suffering until I can get my hands on what comes next.
I went into this completely blind, which honestly might have been the best decision because all I knew was that it had stalker vibes… and let me just say: I do love a stalker boy. Give me obsessive, morally gray, “I’m watching you but make it dark romance” energy, and I am immediately seated.
But Mackenzie and Max? WHEW.
There are honestly so many things I want to say about these two, but I also refuse to spoil anything because this is one of those books that needs to be experienced firsthand. What I will say is… chef’s kiss. These two are absolutely on fire. The chemistry? Explosive. The tension? Unhinged in the best possible way. The obsession, the push and pull, the darkness woven through their connection? SO GOOD.
I’ve read dark romance before. Plenty of it. But this one? This one takes the cake. It had that perfect mix of tension, danger, obsession, and “what in the actual hell is happening?!” that kept me glued to the pages. The kind of book where you tell yourself one more chapter and suddenly it’s 3am and your sanity is questionable.
And the atmosphere? Deliciously dark. Every chapter felt like it was pulling me deeper into the chaos, and I was absolutely okay with it.
Mackenzie and Max completely consumed me, and now I’m left emotionally wrecked, desperate for answers, and questioning why I do this to myself with cliffhangers.
But was it
Secondly… ARGHHHHHHHH!!! THAT ENDING. Excuse me?! The emotional damage?! The audacity?! The wait for the next book is going to be absolutely brutal, and I already know I’m going to be over here impatiently suffering until I can get my hands on what comes next.
I went into this completely blind, which honestly might have been the best decision because all I knew was that it had stalker vibes… and let me just say: I do love a stalker boy. Give me obsessive, morally gray, “I’m watching you but make it dark romance” energy, and I am immediately seated.
But Mackenzie and Max? WHEW.
There are honestly so many things I want to say about these two, but I also refuse to spoil anything because this is one of those books that needs to be experienced firsthand. What I will say is… chef’s kiss. These two are absolutely on fire. The chemistry? Explosive. The tension? Unhinged in the best possible way. The obsession, the push and pull, the darkness woven through their connection? SO GOOD.
I’ve read dark romance before. Plenty of it. But this one? This one takes the cake. It had that perfect mix of tension, danger, obsession, and “what in the actual hell is happening?!” that kept me glued to the pages. The kind of book where you tell yourself one more chapter and suddenly it’s 3am and your sanity is questionable.
And the atmosphere? Deliciously dark. Every chapter felt like it was pulling me deeper into the chaos, and I was absolutely okay with it.
Mackenzie and Max completely consumed me, and now I’m left emotionally wrecked, desperate for answers, and questioning why I do this to myself with cliffhangers.
But was it
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Blackshear by M.E. Mason completely consumed me from the very first page. This story has that rare ability to make you feel like you're walking through the woods right alongside the characters, knowing something is wrong but being unable to look away.
Mackenzie is such a compelling heroine. Her past is layered with pain, secrets, and survival, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. Watching her relationship with Max evolve over the years was both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection felt raw, intense, and deeply emotional. What starts as friendship slowly transforms into something much darker, more possessive, and impossible to escape.
The atmosphere in this book deserves its own standing ovation. Camp Blackshear feels alive. The setting is haunting, eerie, and filled with tension that lingers long after you put the book down. Every chapter left me questioning who could be trusted and what danger was waiting around the next corner.
What I loved most was how the story blurred the lines between love, obsession, protection, and control. Nothing felt simple or predictable. The emotional depth combined with the suspense kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
M.E. Mason delivered a gripping story packed with mystery, danger, heartbreak, and a romance that is as beautiful as it is unsettling. Blackshear is dark, addictive, emotional, and impossible to forget. If you love atmospheric romance with secrets, suspense, and characters who stay with you long after the final page, this book absolutely belongs on your TBR.
An unforgettable read that hunted me long after I finished it.
Blackshear by M.E. Mason completely consumed me from the very first page. This story has that rare ability to make you feel like you're walking through the woods right alongside the characters, knowing something is wrong but being unable to look away.
Mackenzie is such a compelling heroine. Her past is layered with pain, secrets, and survival, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. Watching her relationship with Max evolve over the years was both beautiful and heartbreaking. Their connection felt raw, intense, and deeply emotional. What starts as friendship slowly transforms into something much darker, more possessive, and impossible to escape.
The atmosphere in this book deserves its own standing ovation. Camp Blackshear feels alive. The setting is haunting, eerie, and filled with tension that lingers long after you put the book down. Every chapter left me questioning who could be trusted and what danger was waiting around the next corner.
What I loved most was how the story blurred the lines between love, obsession, protection, and control. Nothing felt simple or predictable. The emotional depth combined with the suspense kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
M.E. Mason delivered a gripping story packed with mystery, danger, heartbreak, and a romance that is as beautiful as it is unsettling. Blackshear is dark, addictive, emotional, and impossible to forget. If you love atmospheric romance with secrets, suspense, and characters who stay with you long after the final page, this book absolutely belongs on your TBR.
An unforgettable read that hunted me long after I finished it.
June 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Books and Bloom
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
First of all I just want to thank Books and Bloom for allowing me to read an ARC of Blackshear
Tropes:
💗Best friends to lovers
🤌🏻Forced Proximity
🩶Morally grey hero
🌶️Slow burn
🔥Mutual obsession
Ok this book is WIIILLLDDDD!!!!!
This is the first (THE FIRST) in the A Shatter in the Woods series, if this is how the series starts, I’m low key terrified and overly excited about what’s to come.
I’m not going to give details as I fully believe that this book will be best experienced going in without preconceived thoughts.
What I will tell you is this, it’s dark, full of tension, secrets, serious amounts of danger, survival and OBSESSION 🔥that’s going to leave you rendered unable to put the book down.
When you think you’ve navigated all of the above you then have to contend with the twists and turns that are guaranteed to leave you with more questions than answers. It just consumes you until you reach the ending. THE ENDING!!!!! I was left considering unfriending my kindle because you I was angry that it ran out of words….irrational but fair warning, you’re going to feel the same.
Deliciously dark, completely chaotic and an absolute MUST READ! It’s a book I wish I could read for the first time again. I NEED BOOK 2
Favourite Quotes:
❤️🔥“He felt safe. And that was the most terrifying part. He felt like home, like belonging, and I had no idea what to with something so dangerous”
❤️🔥“You. Are. The. One, I want YOU. I want all of you, even the pieces you hide from me.
❤️🔥”You good baby?”
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
First of all I just want to thank Books and Bloom for allowing me to read an ARC of Blackshear
Tropes:
💗Best friends to lovers
🤌🏻Forced Proximity
🩶Morally grey hero
🌶️Slow burn
🔥Mutual obsession
Ok this book is WIIILLLDDDD!!!!!
This is the first (THE FIRST) in the A Shatter in the Woods series, if this is how the series starts, I’m low key terrified and overly excited about what’s to come.
I’m not going to give details as I fully believe that this book will be best experienced going in without preconceived thoughts.
What I will tell you is this, it’s dark, full of tension, secrets, serious amounts of danger, survival and OBSESSION 🔥that’s going to leave you rendered unable to put the book down.
When you think you’ve navigated all of the above you then have to contend with the twists and turns that are guaranteed to leave you with more questions than answers. It just consumes you until you reach the ending. THE ENDING!!!!! I was left considering unfriending my kindle because you I was angry that it ran out of words….irrational but fair warning, you’re going to feel the same.
Deliciously dark, completely chaotic and an absolute MUST READ! It’s a book I wish I could read for the first time again. I NEED BOOK 2
Favourite Quotes:
❤️🔥“He felt safe. And that was the most terrifying part. He felt like home, like belonging, and I had no idea what to with something so dangerous”
❤️🔥“You. Are. The. One, I want YOU. I want all of you, even the pieces you hide from me.
❤️🔥”You good baby?”
June 9, 2026
I have received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
4.5 ⭐
4 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
**Minus .5 of a star because that ending was MEAN! 😭**
Wow. Where do I even start with this book. I am STUNNED 🖤 This book was everything I expected and then some. And even more that I didn't expect if that's even possible. 💀
PLEASE check Trigger Warnings because this book is DARK 🖤 Red flags? More like Black Flags for daysssss 🏴🏴🏴
It introduces us to Mackenzie, a 12 year old with a dark past shrouded in secrets and red tape. Her one life line out of the darkness? Max.
Max is her best friend that she met at Camp Blackshear. Max is the person who she has spoken to every day, even multiple times a day since they were 12.
Now they are 18, going into their final summer of Blackshear Camp, but things are different this time. Mackenzie has started to notice things she's never noticed before about Max.
Max is starting to embrace the thoughts that you don't think about your best friend. Both of them are in for an explosive awakening where your best friend isn't just your best friend anymore. And if that isn't already enough, Mackenzie's past is coming back to Haunt her - but did it ever really leave? 😈
Honestly I just can't with this. It has kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, glued to the pages as the twists just kept coming and coming and just when I thought I had things figured out? Absolutely not. You cannot predict this book, it exceeds all wild expectations and then some. I am DYING for book 2 and that ending had messed me up in the ✨best✨ way.
4.5 ⭐
4 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
**Minus .5 of a star because that ending was MEAN! 😭**
Wow. Where do I even start with this book. I am STUNNED 🖤 This book was everything I expected and then some. And even more that I didn't expect if that's even possible. 💀
PLEASE check Trigger Warnings because this book is DARK 🖤 Red flags? More like Black Flags for daysssss 🏴🏴🏴
It introduces us to Mackenzie, a 12 year old with a dark past shrouded in secrets and red tape. Her one life line out of the darkness? Max.
Max is her best friend that she met at Camp Blackshear. Max is the person who she has spoken to every day, even multiple times a day since they were 12.
Now they are 18, going into their final summer of Blackshear Camp, but things are different this time. Mackenzie has started to notice things she's never noticed before about Max.
Max is starting to embrace the thoughts that you don't think about your best friend. Both of them are in for an explosive awakening where your best friend isn't just your best friend anymore. And if that isn't already enough, Mackenzie's past is coming back to Haunt her - but did it ever really leave? 😈
Honestly I just can't with this. It has kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, glued to the pages as the twists just kept coming and coming and just when I thought I had things figured out? Absolutely not. You cannot predict this book, it exceeds all wild expectations and then some. I am DYING for book 2 and that ending had messed me up in the ✨best✨ way.
June 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars
I just finished Blackshear by M.E. Mason, and overall, I really enjoyed this read.
The story follows Mackenzie, a young woman haunted by a traumatic past she can’t seem to escape. Her safe haven has always been Camp Blackshear, where she formed a deep friendship with Max. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the camp holds secrets of its own, and Mackenzie’s past isn’t as far behind her as she hoped.
The first half of this book completely pulled me in. The mystery surrounding the camp, Mackenzie’s history, and the growing tension kept me turning pages. I found the characters compelling, and I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen next.
While I enjoyed the twists and surprises throughout the story, the latter portion felt a bit rushed compared to the strong buildup. Some plot developments escalated quickly, and at times I felt the romance and spice took attention away from the mystery elements that initially captivated me. Even so, the story remained entertaining and kept me invested until the end.
Be aware that this is not a traditional happily-ever-after ending, and you’ll definitely need the sequel to get the full story. While I’m still deciding whether I’ll continue the series, I don’t regret picking this one up. If you enjoy dark secrets, suspense, friendship, romance, and unexpected twists, Blackshear is worth adding to your TBR.
I just finished Blackshear by M.E. Mason, and overall, I really enjoyed this read.
The story follows Mackenzie, a young woman haunted by a traumatic past she can’t seem to escape. Her safe haven has always been Camp Blackshear, where she formed a deep friendship with Max. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the camp holds secrets of its own, and Mackenzie’s past isn’t as far behind her as she hoped.
The first half of this book completely pulled me in. The mystery surrounding the camp, Mackenzie’s history, and the growing tension kept me turning pages. I found the characters compelling, and I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen next.
While I enjoyed the twists and surprises throughout the story, the latter portion felt a bit rushed compared to the strong buildup. Some plot developments escalated quickly, and at times I felt the romance and spice took attention away from the mystery elements that initially captivated me. Even so, the story remained entertaining and kept me invested until the end.
Be aware that this is not a traditional happily-ever-after ending, and you’ll definitely need the sequel to get the full story. While I’m still deciding whether I’ll continue the series, I don’t regret picking this one up. If you enjoy dark secrets, suspense, friendship, romance, and unexpected twists, Blackshear is worth adding to your TBR.
May 27, 2026
Thank you to Happily Booked PR & M.E. Mason for the ARC copy of Blackshear. This is my honest review for the book releasing on June 2nd.
OH MY GOSH. I started and finished this book today. When I say I was completely overtaken by this book & couldn’t put it down… I mean it. This was possibly the strangest form of dark romance I’ve ever read. I loved it to be honest. I also love that their is a playlist in the book(10/10 music wise)
Blackshear is a summer camp where Mackenzie Hamill & Max McKinnon meet when they are 12 years old. It’s the only place Mackenzie has found refuge from her life and it’s all because of Max, her best friend.
Max and Mackenzie are counselors 7 years later and they start to recognize their feelings for one another. The thing about Camp Blackshear is that someone is always watching. Will possession and obsession take over?
I will possibly be thinking about this whole book until the next one comes out. This is book one in A Shatter in the Woods series. There is so much going on this whole book. You will love some parts, hate some parts, and be absolutely flabbergasted by the end. This book is extremely dark and I would advise you check the trigger warnings. I genuinely hope you do check out the craziness of this story because it’s so captivating & you will have many questions at the end of all of this!! Thank you again for my ARC copy.
OH MY GOSH. I started and finished this book today. When I say I was completely overtaken by this book & couldn’t put it down… I mean it. This was possibly the strangest form of dark romance I’ve ever read. I loved it to be honest. I also love that their is a playlist in the book(10/10 music wise)
Blackshear is a summer camp where Mackenzie Hamill & Max McKinnon meet when they are 12 years old. It’s the only place Mackenzie has found refuge from her life and it’s all because of Max, her best friend.
Max and Mackenzie are counselors 7 years later and they start to recognize their feelings for one another. The thing about Camp Blackshear is that someone is always watching. Will possession and obsession take over?
I will possibly be thinking about this whole book until the next one comes out. This is book one in A Shatter in the Woods series. There is so much going on this whole book. You will love some parts, hate some parts, and be absolutely flabbergasted by the end. This book is extremely dark and I would advise you check the trigger warnings. I genuinely hope you do check out the craziness of this story because it’s so captivating & you will have many questions at the end of all of this!! Thank you again for my ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to say thank you for the Advanced Copy and letting me read! Get readyyyyyy😃
✨✨✨✨
I genuinely don’t even know where to begin with this book because WHAT did I just put myself through?!
This book consumed me. Like fully.
The kind of book where you say “one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 3am, your eye is twitching, and your entire personality revolves around fictional characters.
I went into this mostly blind, and honestly? Best decision ever. The tension, the obsession, the darkness woven into every interaction?? INSANE. It had me stressed, giggling, kicking my feet, and emotionally unwell all at once.
And the chemistry???
Absolutely feral.
The push and pull between these characters was addictive in the worst/best way possible. Every interaction had me sitting there like “…this is toxic” while simultaneously needing more immediately.
This wasn’t just romance — it was obsession, tension, chaos, emotional damage, and “what the hell is happening” energy wrapped into one book and I ate it UP.
And don’t even get me started on that ending because I am NOT okay.
Actually disrespectful. Criminal, even.
Now I get the hype.
I fear this book has permanently altered my brain chemistry. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨✨✨✨
I genuinely don’t even know where to begin with this book because WHAT did I just put myself through?!
This book consumed me. Like fully.
The kind of book where you say “one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 3am, your eye is twitching, and your entire personality revolves around fictional characters.
I went into this mostly blind, and honestly? Best decision ever. The tension, the obsession, the darkness woven into every interaction?? INSANE. It had me stressed, giggling, kicking my feet, and emotionally unwell all at once.
And the chemistry???
Absolutely feral.
The push and pull between these characters was addictive in the worst/best way possible. Every interaction had me sitting there like “…this is toxic” while simultaneously needing more immediately.
This wasn’t just romance — it was obsession, tension, chaos, emotional damage, and “what the hell is happening” energy wrapped into one book and I ate it UP.
And don’t even get me started on that ending because I am NOT okay.
Actually disrespectful. Criminal, even.
Now I get the hype.
I fear this book has permanently altered my brain chemistry. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 4, 2026
I really struggled with how to rate this book. There were some parts of this book I really liked and others that I didn't. I enjoyed the feeling of not being able to trust anyone and that at every corner there could be danger. I however feel like nothing connected that it was too wide of a web and hated how stupid the main characters were at times.
Spoilers beyond this point
Mackenzie's father is a serial killer who may have belonged to an organization or maybe they worship him? Who knows no one is to be believed in this story. Mackenzie is under fbi protection, but is also under watch by the cia and her cia handler just happens to be her best friend Max's father. Max of course finds this out because he's an expert hacker which his father taught him. Camp Blackshear was under fbi protection or was it being ran by The Alliance this entire time?
The main characters are too wrapped up in their will they won't they to notice they're being played like fiddles by everyone around them. Since everyone who is in their age range seems to have something to do with The Alliance, which we don't really get an explanation of what that is.
Towards cliffhanger was the same cliffhanger every dark romance experiences, they have now split up and he blames her for all of his issues.
Spoilers beyond this point
Mackenzie's father is a serial killer who may have belonged to an organization or maybe they worship him? Who knows no one is to be believed in this story. Mackenzie is under fbi protection, but is also under watch by the cia and her cia handler just happens to be her best friend Max's father. Max of course finds this out because he's an expert hacker which his father taught him. Camp Blackshear was under fbi protection or was it being ran by The Alliance this entire time?
The main characters are too wrapped up in their will they won't they to notice they're being played like fiddles by everyone around them. Since everyone who is in their age range seems to have something to do with The Alliance, which we don't really get an explanation of what that is.
Towards cliffhanger was the same cliffhanger every dark romance experiences, they have now split up and he blames her for all of his issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2026
Thank you to M.E. Mason, Happily Booked PR, and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book pulled me in almost immediately. The creepy summer camp setting was easily one of my favorite parts—there was an unsettling atmosphere hanging over everything, and it felt like every character was hiding something.
I was completely invested in the mystery from the start. Every chapter seemed to reveal another secret or raise a new question, and I kept turning the pages because I needed to know what was really going on.
That said, by the end I felt more confused than satisfied. There were so many moving pieces that I struggled to see how everything fit together, and I finished the book with quite a few unanswered questions.
As for Mackenzie and Max... they definitely tested my patience. The constant push and pull between them had me wishing they would just sit down and have an honest conversation already.
Even so, I really enjoyed the mystery, the tension, and the eerie camp atmosphere. While I would have liked more clarity in some of the reveals, this is one of those books that sticks with you after you've finished it.
And despite my questions, I'll absolutely be picking up book two—because now I need answers.
This book pulled me in almost immediately. The creepy summer camp setting was easily one of my favorite parts—there was an unsettling atmosphere hanging over everything, and it felt like every character was hiding something.
I was completely invested in the mystery from the start. Every chapter seemed to reveal another secret or raise a new question, and I kept turning the pages because I needed to know what was really going on.
That said, by the end I felt more confused than satisfied. There were so many moving pieces that I struggled to see how everything fit together, and I finished the book with quite a few unanswered questions.
As for Mackenzie and Max... they definitely tested my patience. The constant push and pull between them had me wishing they would just sit down and have an honest conversation already.
Even so, I really enjoyed the mystery, the tension, and the eerie camp atmosphere. While I would have liked more clarity in some of the reveals, this is one of those books that sticks with you after you've finished it.
And despite my questions, I'll absolutely be picking up book two—because now I need answers.
June 19, 2026
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
I was hooked from the very first page and completely devoured this book. The writing was so vivid that I could picture every scene perfectly and feel every emotion right alongside the characters. The eerie atmosphere was incredibly well done and had me completely immersed in the story.
The pacing was flawless every scene flowed seamlessly into the next making it impossible to put down. This book had me constantly needing to know what would happen next.
Mackenzie has been through so much, and my heart absolutely ached for her. Despite everything she's endured she's resilient, determined and incredibly strong. I loved her character and found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
And Max? Completely swoon-worthy. He was so gentle and patient with Mackenzie. And his love for her practically radiated off the page. The connection between them was intense, emotional and impossible not to get invested in.
The banter kept things entertaining and balanced out the darker moments perfectly. And the spice? Absolutely delivered.
That ending, though... I'm wrecked. 😭 The cliffhanger left me with so many questions, and now I desperately need book two. I have to know what happens next because I need answers immediately! I cannot wait until 2027!
I was hooked from the very first page and completely devoured this book. The writing was so vivid that I could picture every scene perfectly and feel every emotion right alongside the characters. The eerie atmosphere was incredibly well done and had me completely immersed in the story.
The pacing was flawless every scene flowed seamlessly into the next making it impossible to put down. This book had me constantly needing to know what would happen next.
Mackenzie has been through so much, and my heart absolutely ached for her. Despite everything she's endured she's resilient, determined and incredibly strong. I loved her character and found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
And Max? Completely swoon-worthy. He was so gentle and patient with Mackenzie. And his love for her practically radiated off the page. The connection between them was intense, emotional and impossible not to get invested in.
The banter kept things entertaining and balanced out the darker moments perfectly. And the spice? Absolutely delivered.
That ending, though... I'm wrecked. 😭 The cliffhanger left me with so many questions, and now I desperately need book two. I have to know what happens next because I need answers immediately! I cannot wait until 2027!
May 28, 2026
Holy Moly! The suspense plot in this one stole the show and I’m not mad about it!
Our story follows Mackenzie, the daughter of a serial killer, who has been in Witness Protection since she was 11.
Her only sense of normalcy is being able to go to summer camp every year. At Camp Blackshear is where she meets Max and she and he become best friends who every year get closer and closer…. This year all bets are off when she shows up at camp… Max’s stares are lingering longer and they are sharing a private bunk.. 👀… she thinks this is finally it!!! Until Jackson enters stage right… Jackson, the abusive crazy ex! As if that’s not already enough crazy to dive a girl bonkers…
There are whispers and shadows and she knows she can feel eyes on her…. The last night of camp will be a night to remember!
I really liked this book! The suspense plot kept me on the edge of my seat! I had quite a few gasping moments!
I do feel like the characters were really immature BUT they were all a bunch of 18 & 19 year olds so… they is really young! lol
The cliffhanger in this one is a brutal one! lol
I can’t wait for book 2!!!
Our story follows Mackenzie, the daughter of a serial killer, who has been in Witness Protection since she was 11.
Her only sense of normalcy is being able to go to summer camp every year. At Camp Blackshear is where she meets Max and she and he become best friends who every year get closer and closer…. This year all bets are off when she shows up at camp… Max’s stares are lingering longer and they are sharing a private bunk.. 👀… she thinks this is finally it!!! Until Jackson enters stage right… Jackson, the abusive crazy ex! As if that’s not already enough crazy to dive a girl bonkers…
There are whispers and shadows and she knows she can feel eyes on her…. The last night of camp will be a night to remember!
I really liked this book! The suspense plot kept me on the edge of my seat! I had quite a few gasping moments!
I do feel like the characters were really immature BUT they were all a bunch of 18 & 19 year olds so… they is really young! lol
The cliffhanger in this one is a brutal one! lol
I can’t wait for book 2!!!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
2.75/5...I wanted to love this more than I did. The atmosphere at Camp Blackshear is easily the strongest part of the book—there’s an eerie, nostalgic summer-camp vibe running through the entire story that really works. The author also does a solid job building tension in the relationships, especially between Mackenzie and Max, where affection and control blur in uncomfortable ways.A lot of the emotional intensity and darker themes would have worked better for me if the characters had been aged up slightly. There are moments where their younger ages absolutely make sense, especially in the coming-of-age elements and the messy intensity of first love, but other scenes felt difficult to fully buy into because of how young they were. The secret society storyline also felt underdeveloped. It adds intrigue and raises the stakes, but I kept waiting for more clarity and deeper exploration of how everything operated and connected to the larger mystery. There’s enough there to hook you, but not quite enough to feel fully satisfying by the end. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2026
Blackshear by @authormemason is now available!
What to expect:
🔪Best friends to lovers
🖤Second chance romance
🔪Slow burn
🖤Obsessive/possessive MMC
🔪Protective MMC
🖤Morally gray hero
🔪Only soft for her
🖤Mutual obsession
🔪Forced proximity
🖤Stalker ex
I had the pleasure of reading this book and let me tell you, this was a great read. It was dark and moody with that tension and yearning you are looking for.
Imagine being the daughter of a serial killer. All of the emotional complexities that can come with that are handled with great care and in the most compelling way that you don't want to put the book down. In a world where you don't know who to trust, you have to learn to trust yourself and your instincts.
The writing was descriptive. I could picture all of the eerieness of the woods and the setting of the camp. With secrets all around, you're not going to want to put this book down. This had a solid four out of five stars for me. Everyone needs to add this to their must read list.
What to expect:
🔪Best friends to lovers
🖤Second chance romance
🔪Slow burn
🖤Obsessive/possessive MMC
🔪Protective MMC
🖤Morally gray hero
🔪Only soft for her
🖤Mutual obsession
🔪Forced proximity
🖤Stalker ex
I had the pleasure of reading this book and let me tell you, this was a great read. It was dark and moody with that tension and yearning you are looking for.
Imagine being the daughter of a serial killer. All of the emotional complexities that can come with that are handled with great care and in the most compelling way that you don't want to put the book down. In a world where you don't know who to trust, you have to learn to trust yourself and your instincts.
The writing was descriptive. I could picture all of the eerieness of the woods and the setting of the camp. With secrets all around, you're not going to want to put this book down. This had a solid four out of five stars for me. Everyone needs to add this to their must read list.
June 11, 2026
Ok, wow, this book was something else! M.E. Mason can write dark romance like few others, swerving from dark passion to fear to feverish lust using evocative, gripping language. She has created vivid characters who are caught between the emotional tsunamis of their emotional and sexual yearnings and mysterious threats that keep the tension in the plot humming. The FMC Mackenzie is in the Witness Protection program and has been watched by the FBI since she was young. The threat? Her dad. It's intense.
Max is her best friend since childhood who falls hard for her, and does everything he can from the dark forces circling around her. I especially loved the first half of the book when Max and Mackenzie circle each other, wanting to know whether they can be together, while a domineering former boyfriend arrives at their camp, laying his claim on her and taunting Max. In the last third of the book, the plot takes several unexpected turns and things get really crazy. All in all, it is a visceral, gripping dark romance!
Max is her best friend since childhood who falls hard for her, and does everything he can from the dark forces circling around her. I especially loved the first half of the book when Max and Mackenzie circle each other, wanting to know whether they can be together, while a domineering former boyfriend arrives at their camp, laying his claim on her and taunting Max. In the last third of the book, the plot takes several unexpected turns and things get really crazy. All in all, it is a visceral, gripping dark romance!
June 28, 2026
*ARC REVIEW*
I don't know where to begin with this other than WOW. I received this from Happily Booked & M.E Mason and I didn't know what to think as the cover and title didn't give much away. But boy this is easily one of the favourite reads of all time, hands down.
The history of Mackenzie and Max is so beautiful to read and their sexual tension got me turning the page time and time again, even if I wanted them to just sit down and talk about their feelings at times. They were so well written and developed and I loved their complexity. Their love was inevitable and I absolutely loved that about them.
I also ate the intensity and eeriness of Blackshear up, the fact that it felt that someone was always watching kept me on edge throughout. I loved how the book challenged what characters you could trust and how I'm left with questions needing to be answered.
The fact that book 2 in the series will be out in 2027 is making me feel personally attacked as I need it right NOW 🤭
*All reviews are unbiased and completely my own
I don't know where to begin with this other than WOW. I received this from Happily Booked & M.E Mason and I didn't know what to think as the cover and title didn't give much away. But boy this is easily one of the favourite reads of all time, hands down.
The history of Mackenzie and Max is so beautiful to read and their sexual tension got me turning the page time and time again, even if I wanted them to just sit down and talk about their feelings at times. They were so well written and developed and I loved their complexity. Their love was inevitable and I absolutely loved that about them.
I also ate the intensity and eeriness of Blackshear up, the fact that it felt that someone was always watching kept me on edge throughout. I loved how the book challenged what characters you could trust and how I'm left with questions needing to be answered.
The fact that book 2 in the series will be out in 2027 is making me feel personally attacked as I need it right NOW 🤭
*All reviews are unbiased and completely my own
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I'm so thankful for the opportunity to be the ARC reviewer for this book.
Max and Makenzie... They have my whole heart. A warning to readers though, this book ends on a cliffhanger, and we all love a rabbit hole, so heck it. I jumped down.
Normally I don't prefer books with cliffhanger because I don't like waiting for a book to be released again and my mind going crazy for reading the next one.
But this time, I was proven wrong.
Max, God Oh God. Bless the author for creating him. When I say I like dark romance but not men in them, some are exceptions. Max is one of those exceptions. His love for Makenzie and the way he was ready to do anything and everything for her is 😭
I love Makenzie so much, she deserves everything (That is a normal life with Max)✨
I won't write any spoilers because I don't like that, but when it comes to trope like this, M. E. Mason, you're my new favourite 😭
Max and Makenzie... They have my whole heart. A warning to readers though, this book ends on a cliffhanger, and we all love a rabbit hole, so heck it. I jumped down.
Normally I don't prefer books with cliffhanger because I don't like waiting for a book to be released again and my mind going crazy for reading the next one.
But this time, I was proven wrong.
Max, God Oh God. Bless the author for creating him. When I say I like dark romance but not men in them, some are exceptions. Max is one of those exceptions. His love for Makenzie and the way he was ready to do anything and everything for her is 😭
I love Makenzie so much, she deserves everything (That is a normal life with Max)✨
I won't write any spoilers because I don't like that, but when it comes to trope like this, M. E. Mason, you're my new favourite 😭
May 28, 2026
I received this as an Advanced Reader Copy courtesy of Happily Booked.
This dark romance with a psychological thriller vibe is a must-read. Mackenzie Hamill attends summer camp at Camp Blackshear every summer after her life turns upside down and she and her mother are on the run. She meets her best friend, Max McKinnon. They have an instant connection, with the book starting at the beginning of their last summer at Camp. The reader is engulfed in their chemistry, where they eventually become lovers. But Mackenzie is running from a legacy that threatens to swallow Max up.
This book had everything I love about a psychological thriller with a mixture of dark romance. You have second chance romance, an obsessive/possessive MMC, mutual obsession and a stalker ex. I literally could not put this book down and now I’m impatiently waiting for Book 2. I could not give this book less than 5 stars!
This dark romance with a psychological thriller vibe is a must-read. Mackenzie Hamill attends summer camp at Camp Blackshear every summer after her life turns upside down and she and her mother are on the run. She meets her best friend, Max McKinnon. They have an instant connection, with the book starting at the beginning of their last summer at Camp. The reader is engulfed in their chemistry, where they eventually become lovers. But Mackenzie is running from a legacy that threatens to swallow Max up.
This book had everything I love about a psychological thriller with a mixture of dark romance. You have second chance romance, an obsessive/possessive MMC, mutual obsession and a stalker ex. I literally could not put this book down and now I’m impatiently waiting for Book 2. I could not give this book less than 5 stars!
Review of advance copy
Thank you so much to the author, M.E. Mason & to Happily Booked for allowing me to read this in advance!
🎉🎉 Happy launch day to M.E. Mason! 🎉🎉
Fasten your seatbelts babes, we’re going to camp Blackshear! This book is launching just in time for summerween!
Blackshear kept me on my toes from start to finish. This story follows Max and Mackenzie, two childhood friends that have attended camp together since they were 12, that are now young adults acting as counselors.
The tension and chemistry between them is insane! The push and pull for them to maintain their safe friendship, or cross every line into temptation had me giggling, screaming, and throwing my kindle across the bed.
You’ll get slasher summer vibes, friends to lovers, secret society, stalker ex bf, serial killer legacy, obsession, thrill, and a roller coaster of emotions. But FYI, this does end in a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to HappilyBooked and M.E. Mason for allowing me to arc read for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2026
Mackenize + Max
Blackshear is layered in so many emotions. Max + Mackenzie have been friends since their teens and now we've met them when they are going to be camp counselors together. But Camp Blackshear isn't what it seems. Over the course of this book we see Max and Mackenzie make choices to protect themselves and each other.
This does not begin with a happy start nor does it end on a positive note. We get a cliffhanger and honestly with the information given with the last 200 pages or so.. there is SO much more going on than we initially thought. Mackenzie might turn into the one thing she's been running from and Max has already succumbed to what he never wanted for himself.
I really dislike that we have to wait until 2027 for the conclusion but I did enjoy the plot, character arcs and overall jive of the book.
PS Please check the TW before diving in.. this one is a bit dark.
I received this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
Blackshear is layered in so many emotions. Max + Mackenzie have been friends since their teens and now we've met them when they are going to be camp counselors together. But Camp Blackshear isn't what it seems. Over the course of this book we see Max and Mackenzie make choices to protect themselves and each other.
This does not begin with a happy start nor does it end on a positive note. We get a cliffhanger and honestly with the information given with the last 200 pages or so.. there is SO much more going on than we initially thought. Mackenzie might turn into the one thing she's been running from and Max has already succumbed to what he never wanted for himself.
I really dislike that we have to wait until 2027 for the conclusion but I did enjoy the plot, character arcs and overall jive of the book.
PS Please check the TW before diving in.. this one is a bit dark.
I received this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
June 2, 2026
I truly don't even know where to begin with this one... one moment I had just started chapter one, and the next thing I knew I was finished and staring at the wall because WHAT DO YOU MEANNN?!?!
I was spiraling throughout this entire book. the eerie mystery surrounding Mackenzie's past hooks you from the start. every time I thought I was putting pieces of the puzzle together, another piece would appear and completely change the picture. it was addicting trying to solve it all lol.
and Max... Max is officially my yellow daffodil (sorry Mackenzie, you're going to have to share) I fell for their chemistry immediately. they challenged each other, drove each other mad, and somehow balanced each other perfectly. I ate up every second of it.
and then I get hit with the most diabolical cliffhanger EVER, because what do you mean I'm now expected to function normally after this one?! ABSOLUTELY NOT. I will remain feral and obsessed. I'm already itching to go back.
I was spiraling throughout this entire book. the eerie mystery surrounding Mackenzie's past hooks you from the start. every time I thought I was putting pieces of the puzzle together, another piece would appear and completely change the picture. it was addicting trying to solve it all lol.
and Max... Max is officially my yellow daffodil (sorry Mackenzie, you're going to have to share) I fell for their chemistry immediately. they challenged each other, drove each other mad, and somehow balanced each other perfectly. I ate up every second of it.
and then I get hit with the most diabolical cliffhanger EVER, because what do you mean I'm now expected to function normally after this one?! ABSOLUTELY NOT. I will remain feral and obsessed. I'm already itching to go back.
June 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5 Stars
Blackshear pulled me in from the very first chapter and refused to let go.
The isolated camp setting, dark woods, and constant feeling that something was lurking just beneath the surface created an atmosphere that was both eerie and completely immersive. @authormemason does an incredible job building tension, making it nearly impossible to know who to trust.
What I loved most was the way the mystery unfolded. Every answer seemed to lead to more questions, and I found myself constantly changing my theories as new secrets came to light. The suspense was steady, addictive, and kept me turning pages late into the night.
Beyond the mystery, the emotional stakes added another layer to the story. The relationships, loyalties, and betrayals felt genuine, making the twists hit even harder.
If you love dark woods, isolated settings, unsettling tension, and mysteries packed with secrets, Blackshear is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Blackshear pulled me in from the very first chapter and refused to let go.
The isolated camp setting, dark woods, and constant feeling that something was lurking just beneath the surface created an atmosphere that was both eerie and completely immersive. @authormemason does an incredible job building tension, making it nearly impossible to know who to trust.
What I loved most was the way the mystery unfolded. Every answer seemed to lead to more questions, and I found myself constantly changing my theories as new secrets came to light. The suspense was steady, addictive, and kept me turning pages late into the night.
Beyond the mystery, the emotional stakes added another layer to the story. The relationships, loyalties, and betrayals felt genuine, making the twists hit even harder.
If you love dark woods, isolated settings, unsettling tension, and mysteries packed with secrets, Blackshear is definitely one to add to your TBR.
June 24, 2026
Blackshear is book 1 in A Shatter in the Woods series. It is a dark romance with slasher vibes. When I tell you this story was an addicting, wild ride... I mean... whoa.
Mackenzie is placed into protection by the FBI after learning that her father is a serial killer. She later meets Max at Blackshear camp and they have been best friends ever since. Max seems obsessively in love with Mackenzie and protective. There is a lot of tension and back and forth between them. But behind the troubling romance story between Max and Mackenzie, there is a secret society running in the background. One that takes charge and basically takes over the entire story.
The story is dark but also gives that eerie atmospheric feel to it. I loved the mystery, the thrill, the emotions, the suspense. Everything. The ending left me on edge as we do end off on a bit of a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book.
Mackenzie is placed into protection by the FBI after learning that her father is a serial killer. She later meets Max at Blackshear camp and they have been best friends ever since. Max seems obsessively in love with Mackenzie and protective. There is a lot of tension and back and forth between them. But behind the troubling romance story between Max and Mackenzie, there is a secret society running in the background. One that takes charge and basically takes over the entire story.
The story is dark but also gives that eerie atmospheric feel to it. I loved the mystery, the thrill, the emotions, the suspense. Everything. The ending left me on edge as we do end off on a bit of a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Danger, betrayal, family secrets and sinister intentions create a thrilling tale of two friends who come together each year at Camp Blackshear—a place that holds some of their best memories growing up and created a bond that blooms into first love. Just when I thought I knew what was happening, another twist would turn the story upside down and leave my head spinning. I was entirely consumed by this book and finished it in one day!
Mackenzie’s character experiences a traumatic childhood as the daughter of ‘The Butcher’ taken into the isolating witness protection program which leaves her distrusting and damaged. I loved how Max always knew what she needed, and their memories of the time they spent with each other at camp were sweet and touched my heart. When these two finally get together, their love is explosive, obsessive, and possessive, and I need these two to be ok!
The camp itself felt like a safe haven for them—until I begin to realize that even the woods have eyes. The suspense was palpable from the start of the story. As I turned the pages, I just knew something big was coming, and when it did, I was screaming and wanting vengeance! I am entirely hooked and need the next book now! If you love thrilling suspense, second chance romances, best friends to lovers with a slow burn and an obsessive/possessive MMC, you do not want to miss this fast paced, suspense-filled thriller!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mackenzie’s character experiences a traumatic childhood as the daughter of ‘The Butcher’ taken into the isolating witness protection program which leaves her distrusting and damaged. I loved how Max always knew what she needed, and their memories of the time they spent with each other at camp were sweet and touched my heart. When these two finally get together, their love is explosive, obsessive, and possessive, and I need these two to be ok!
The camp itself felt like a safe haven for them—until I begin to realize that even the woods have eyes. The suspense was palpable from the start of the story. As I turned the pages, I just knew something big was coming, and when it did, I was screaming and wanting vengeance! I am entirely hooked and need the next book now! If you love thrilling suspense, second chance romances, best friends to lovers with a slow burn and an obsessive/possessive MMC, you do not want to miss this fast paced, suspense-filled thriller!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews