UnWholly Night

by Alicia Ramos

Riley Kingston…
The love of my life.
My Protector.
I asked him to retire the mask so we could move on and heal. Rebuild what was stolen from us.
But any sane person knows that keeping him on a leash was next to impossible.

It was only a matter of time…

Little did I know I would become part of his twisted game.
Tonight, we’d bathe in blood and I’d love every minute of it.


*This novella is part of Riley and Maya's duet in the Crestview Cardinals dark hockey universe and can be read as a standalone*


Due to the heavy themes of this story it is for 18+

Genres: Dark Romance, Novella

107 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 16, 2026

About the author

Alicia is a dark romance author was born and raised in Buffalo NY and spent most of her days as a child reading books and enjoying the outdoors. As the oldest of 5, she enjoys spending time with her family including her Daughter and Australian shepherd.

When she isn't writing you can find her enjoying nature or curling up to a good book. Alicia enjoys being part of the community and being involved with causes such as mental health and domestic violence awareness.

Despite being a fiery Saggitarius she is calm at heart, opting to dig out her telescope and look for worlds far away or lay on the grass letting music speak to her. She travels frequently using her sense of adventure and love of history to research and find inspiration for her writing.

Her hope in writing is for her readers to not only find entertainment but in some cases to find healing and spread awareness within its pages.

Reviews

[Sandra's Book Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ARC REVIEW ✨️

This was a fast read. You have as much dark romance and bdsm you can handle in this short novella! Check your triggers. This was very spicy!
Thank you for this ARC, for my honest opinion.

[Kellysbookishbliss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when king is coming to play.
But don't think this is a sweet game.
This is a game of survival, trauma's and emotions.

And the game doesn't stop, it's just about to start with no limits. I looking forward to the next part of this story.

I love them both, the bond they have and the monsters they share.

read trigger warnings ⚠️

[Blondies Book Binge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read everything Alicia has ever written and because of that feel like I’m a great litmus to review this book. This is by far my favorite novella of any of her stories. The rawness and vulnerability and character depth shined through here while still sticking to the bones of dark romance and its bdsm roots. I cannot wait for the final part of this duet. I need it. I loved this. “Tell me what you are, Maya.” I won’t spoil the story and speak for her but I know what I am. A fiend for this duo.
“She is mine, always mine. Forever mine.” Well I’m jealous. This book was everything. I’m not sure how 109 pages can pack so much punch but they did. This book is for the survivors. For the warriors. And for the ones who despite all odds and circumstances still believe there’s love out there for everyone. I loved it and I am anxious for the finale of this story. Slow claps for the author and cast of characters she created. This was a raw and real one.

[MaeBae]

Update: I read this as a standalone, but I just found out this is technically book 1.5. I will be going back to read book 1 first, and honestly? I have a feeling it is going to change my whole perspective on this one. I will and my new notes afterwards :)

Thanks so much Alicia Ramos and Naughty Nook PR for the book. I was gifted this book as an advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am leaving this review completely voluntarily.

If you are looking for a read you can finish in one sitting, this one definitely delivers. Coming in at under 100 pages, it wastes absolutely no time getting started. You are thrown into the deep end almost immediately, with very little breathing room to ease into the world or get to know the characters before things start moving. The pacing is fast, everything unfolds quickly, and there is not a lot of space to pause and process what is happening. Whether that works for you will honestly depend on what you are looking for.

One thing I do want to flag before you dive in: this is a dark story. Go in prepared for heavier themes. If intense dynamics and darker romance are your thing, there is definitely something here for you.

For me personally, though, this one landed at 2 stars. Not because it is poorly written, because it is not. Every chapter clearly has a purpose, nothing feels like filler, and the chemistry between the two leads is obvious and easy to root for from the start. The author clearly knew what kind of story they were telling.

My issue really comes down to the length. I wanted more time with these characters. I wanted to understand their relationship better and actually feel invested in where things were going. With such a short format, everything felt a bit rushed, and that made it harder for me to connect.
I can absolutely see this clicking for readers who love quick, punchy, dark reads. It just was not my cup of tea.

Happy reading friends,
~ Maebae 💚

I’m a fellow book lover reviewing the good, the bad, and everything bookish in-between. All thoughts, opinions, and reactions are completely my own. I wasn’t paid, sponsored, or influenced in any way.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, thank you for allowing me to ARC read this and share my honest thoughts. I always appreciate the opportunity to read a book early and support new releases, so I’m grateful I got the chance to experience this one.

Going into the story, I did feel a bit like I had been dropped into the middle of something already in progress. At times it felt less like starting a brand-new book and more like stepping into the middle of an ongoing story or series where certain events or backstories had already happened. It took me a little while to orient myself and fully understand the dynamics and history between the characters.

That being said, once I settled into the story, I still found myself enjoying it. The characters were complex and layered, which made them interesting to follow. Both the MMC and the FMC had depth to them, and their personalities brought a lot of intensity to the story. Their relationship especially stood out—it wasn’t simple or straightforward, and that complexity made their connection feel more realistic and engaging.

I also enjoyed the chemistry between them. The spice was definitely there, and it added to the tension and emotional pull between the characters. Their interactions carried both heat and emotion, which helped keep the story compelling even when I was still piecing together some of the background.

Overall, even though the beginning felt a bit like I had stepped into the middle of the story, I still found it to be an enjoyable read. The characters, the relationship dynamics, and the spice all made it a book that kept my attention and made the journey worthwhile.

[OooLaLa Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed With This Twisted Night

I had the pleasure of beta reading this before release, and besties… seeing the final polished version? Illegal levels of good. 🫠

"UnWholly Night" drops us right back into Maya and Riley’s little world after "Unwholly Angels" , and let me just say… if you haven’t started this series yet, what are you even doing with your life?! Go add it to your TBR. Now!

This novella gives us a dark, delicious glimpse into Maya and Riley’s life while we impatiently wait for the next book. Maya wants healing. Riley aka King? Well… King is a masked man with revenge in his veins, and keeping him “retired” from his violent tendencies was never going to last. The tension between love, trauma, and their shared darkness is intense.

And when the night turns into a brutal game of hide & seek? Ohhhhhh Besties… it’s bloody, unhinged, and so addictive. The “Who did this to you?” energy mixed with primal play, revenge, and King’s feral protectiveness had me fully locked in.

Yes, it’s violent. Yes, it’s dark. Yes, it’s spicy. And honestly? I devoured every second of it. Just make sure to check those trigger warnings first.

If dark romance with masked chaos and ride-or-d!e devotion is your vibe… trust me, you need this one. 😉

My Ratings:  ⭐ 5/5  ▪︎  🥵 4/5

🥀 For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤

[Stephanie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely INCREDIBLE!! Riley and Maya are a TOTAL power couple and this book proves it even more!!

🥰❤️📖🏒💀🏒📖❤️🥰

From their fun and sweet banter in the beginning, to their erotic games after dark, they are truly couple goals...and did I mention they're also a couple who slays together...?

Maya has a dark past, leaving her with the scars and memories of having been sexually abused and assaulted...Riley not only sees but also feels her pain and what those memories do to her...his solution?

Hunt down the individuals responsible and make them pay...in blood...
...but...he is a hockey player for the Crestview Cardinals, and one of if not the best...so why not make it a game...?

Slipping on a hockey mask and taking on an alter ego persona, Riley/King then creates an unforgettable night not only for both his and Maya's pleasure, but also the chance to help the girl he loves heal...

What to Expect:

❤️ Who Did This to You?
🏒 Se*ual Healing
❤️ Touch Her and 💀
🏒 Masked MMC
❤️ Revenge
🏒 Established Couple
❤️ Er*tic Hide 'n Seek
🏒 Hockey Elements
❤️ Primal
🏒 Bonus Scene

Trigger Warnings:

⚠️ Mention and Use of a
Chastity Belt
⚠️ Mention and Use of a
Crucifix
⚠️ Mention of Blood/Killing

Definitely ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ +!!
I totally recommend "UnWholly Night" by Alicia Ramos!!

And be sure to check out "Deviant Secrets" and "UnWholly Angels," also in the Crestview Cardinals Series by Alicia Ramos!!

🥰❤️📖🏒💀🏒📖❤️🥰

[Darian · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you read Unwholly Angels and fell in love with Riley and Maya then you know their story was far from over and you don't want to miss this.
Alicia brought us back to continue their story and to watch them come to life. In this novella, we will see the true darkness coming out of King. This was so haunting and beautifully intense. It made you hold your breath and keep you on the edge of your seat.
The love this author puts into these characters is truly felt. This isn't just another book, another story, no these characters will come to life before your eyes as you read.

Their story is one of true loyalty, a never ending sacrifice for one another and a bond that can never be broken or stolen. The love they have for one another, and the love that she put into this book will stay with you long after you finish the last page.

The true care and love that these two have for one another burns so hot that they will refuse to let anything stand in their way. They are always willing to fight for each other through everything that they each go through and deal with. This novella was a true emotional punch as we see them faced with demons from their past.

This was such an incredible read. I am so glad I got to read this. Alicia did so amazing. Take heed to those trigger warnings though they are their for good reasons.

[Nicole W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought Riley “King” and Maya “Freckles” couldn’t pull me in any deeper, along came Unwholly Night.
While this novella can be read as a standalone, to really understand everything I followed the suggestion to read Unwholly Angels first (which I loved, by the way) and I’m really glad I did because it provides so much insight into the story.
It is again very deep in so many ways and does contain more than a few possible triggers for some readers, so definitely check the list beforehand.
I really enjoyed this follow up novella, and honestly my only complaint is that I wish it had been longer because I am fully invested in the story of Riley and Maya. It again leaves you on a cliffhanger that has me ready for book three because I need to know what happens next!
It’s still dark, emotional, and addictive. There’s violence, 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, love, teamwork, and all the intensity that Unwholly Angels had. It follows the aftermath of what happened there and shows just how far Riley will go to protect the woman he loves.
Once again, bravo to Alicia Ramos for keeping Riley and Maya’s story strong and so damn addictive.
The 🌶️🌶️🌶️ is completely off the charts and it’s a 5/5 for me again!

[Kam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Alicia for the ARC! So, I think that I would have liked this book more if I had read the others in this series. When I signed up for this ARC, it was recommended to read the other books in the series beforehand, but not required. The requirements to ARC read this book should be switched so readers are required to read the rest of the series beforehand. Reading it without the context of the previous book meant that I had little to no details about who the characters were, what "trauma" they previously experienced, or honestly, what was going on in general.

In general, I didn't like that the MMC kept putting himself and the FMC in situations that obviously further traumatized her immensely. I don't have any triggers typically or anything that bothers me in dark romance, but the spicy scenes bothered me. Not in a triggering way, but in a way that made me feel like the MMC didn't respect the FMC or understand her soul enough to know that she wasn't comfortable. When he did realize she was uncomfortable, yes he checked on her, but then he continued instead of pivoting to something else.

Again, thank you Alicia for the ARC!

[Shay's book corner · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's been advised that this can be read as a standalone but I think that should be changed as I feel I would have understood the characters a lot better had I read unwholly angels beforehand


🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🖤🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤Unwholly night
🖤by-@alicia Ramos
🖤Novella
🖤Edging
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Hide and seek
🖤 Hockey elements
🖤 Unhinged MMC
🖤 Masked MMC
This is a dark novella, so definitely check the trigger warnings before going in.
I do feel like I probably should have read Unwholly Angels first to fully understand the characters and everything they went through before this story.
The MMC is very focused on revenge and making everyone who hurt her pay, and he does that through torture and killing them. While it’s clear he’s doing it because of what they did to her, there were moments where it felt like he didn’t really consider how uncomfortable it made the FMC. Even though he checked in on her, it still felt like watching everything happen might have affected her mentally more than he realised.
I also think reading Unwholly Angels first would have helped me understand their backstory better.
Overall this is definitely a check your triggers kind of novella. Dark and intense.

[Nicole Wolstenholme · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received UnWholly night by Alicia Ramos as an ARC. I don’t even know where to begin. I enjoyed this book so much I gave this book a 4.2 stars just because it was a Novella, but I cannot wait to read more of her work.

This book is a king and Maya Novella. I guess there is a book before this one, but you do not have to read it to be able to read this one. I did feel like I probably should have read the first one to understand more but I still enjoyed this one. I will be going back to read the first one. In this Novella, we follow King and Maya and how the relationship has developed since the first story Riley our king was asked to retire the mass, but you shouldn’t have to worry he has not finished his work to rebuild what was stolen from him, and Maya this book has a lot of emotions, trauma and survival.
Maya and King play what she thinks is just a sexual game to ease some tension but at the end of the night she learns it’s more than that kind of game. Revenge is finally giving but more work still needs to be done. This book leaves you wanting more and ends on a cliffhanger so be prepared for that.

[Theughost · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book!😫 thank you Alicia for letting me ARC read this novella. First off, Rocco can go f himself and secondly absolute masterpiece. Chefs kiss. I feel like you could write about paint drying and I would still read it. 5/5⭐️ and I’d say spice was 🌶️🌶️.

This novella is a part of the Crestview series but can be read as a standalone, we get to follow Riley (King) and Maya again, I can really see how much trauma is inside them when reading. It’s not characters to me, but people who have suffered and now are fighting back so they can stop looking over their shoulders. How? Together. Because despite that they found love. Also that ending?! I can’t wait to read book two and see how it goes!

I love how caring they are about each other and can see each others tells, be there for each other. But also know when to push those boundaries, or step back. Maya and Riley for life!❤️ this novella is just such a lovely read, so if you haven’t read this yet. Do it!! 100% worth it, this was also one of the books that finally got me out of my reading slump. So thank you!❤️

[De Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one read I refused to put down until I finished. It was crammed full of dark romance and kink and tension and suspense. I wasn’t sure who was getting edged - Maya or me. King truly came out to play and I loved it. The connection these two share is intense and pushes the limits. The raw nature and deep conversations these two show makes them even more endearing than they were before. I needed for them to be ok. I needed for them to connect and overcome. There’s violence and blood and brutality, but there’s also protection and love and care. And oh the way Riley will always make sure he has consent and that Maya is ok is *chef’s kiss* But it was that ending…the moment father and partner know there’s no going back and things are in place. The manner in which Riley stood his ground for her, willing to do what’s necessary, was the moment everything changed. He was willing to burn the world before. And now he’s willing to burn with the world. I immediately wanted more and I will not so patiently sit here and wait for the next book to come from this author.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unwholly Night : Crestview Cardinals) 🖤Novella 🏒Hockey Elements 🔥Revenge 🖤Unhinged MC’s 🔥Edging 🖤Masked Men 🔥Established Couple 🖤Hide and seek !!
After reading and falling completely in love with Riley and Maya in Unwholly Angels , I hoped it was not over because I can’t even describe how much I absolutely loved loved loved these two . I was left craving so much more .. well thank gosh their story was not over . We finally get the continuation and oh man what an emotional rollercoaster it was . Haunting, beautiful, extremely emotionally and utterly addictive. A story of loyalty sacrifices and a bond / love like no other . I loved that these two are full of so many different layers and complexities. I loved that their story was far from easy . I just adored the way they protected one another and would do absolutely anything and everything to support each other . This story was just exceptional and I quote Frankly I get not devour it fast enough. Alicia has once again blown my mind and exceeded all my expectations in every way possible.

[Lennon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya and Riley are the definition of a ride-or-die couple and this novella only solidifies that even more.❤️‍🔥 Their connection is intense, unbreakable, and built on a shared understanding of each other’s darkness. This novella leans heavily into Maya’s past, her trauma, and the scars she’s still carrying, giving more depth to her character and showing just how much she’s still working through. King (aka Riley) steps in the only way he knows how, bringing his own brand of chaos and devotion to help her face it head-on.

The balance between love, pain, and healing is what really stands out here. Their relationship isn’t soft or simple...it’s raw, consuming, and fiercely loyal. The darker elements, mixed with the emotional weight of their journey, make this a gripping and intense read that pulls you deeper into their world. If you were already invested in their story, this novella is a must! It adds layers, raises the stakes, and reminds you exactly why they’re such an unforgettable pair.

[Athena, the goddess of books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Alicia Ramos, for the wonderful opportunity to read and review this book. I applied because I liked the tropes even though I haven't read anything by this author and I am super glad that I did because I absolutely loved the story. From here I’ll go back to the reading cave to start the rest of the series and see where all started. Your universe is incredible, and now I’m so curious to learn more about all the characters. I hope everyone enjoys this story as much as I did!

As Alicia shares, this is a bonus novella that works as a standalone, though it’s best enjoyed after Unwholly Angels, I haven’t read the previous book yet, and I still thoroughly enjoyed this one because it actually made me curious about the rest of the books.

For me, the story between Maya and Riley was intriguing and loved how Riley was protective of Maya, it also didn't hurt that the story has other key ingredients. I’m looking forward to discovering what else Alicia has in store for us.

[V Brown LetsBeRealBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

UnWholly Night, Alicia Ramos's novella, is a sequel to UnWholly Angel and focuses on the story of A King and Maya.

Fans of dark hockey romance will appreciate this. If you enjoy unhinged narratives, you will love this. Remember to check Trigger warnings ⚠️. Your mental health matters.

UnWholly Night should be read after UnWholly Angel. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, which was dark, twisted, and, at times, utterly unhinged in all the right ways. If you have read UnWholly Angel, be prepared for a thrilling ride, as this novella will leave you gasping for air and grasping for anything to hold onto. This story takes place months after the cliffhanger in UnWholly Angel and explores places and characters involved in Maya's abuse. The novella concludes with another cliffhanger, so be prepared, and there are still some missing pieces to the story that I am eager to see resolved in the next book, which I am now anxiously awaiting.

@Alicia ll Dark Romance Author
#unwhollynight

[Melissa Mejia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This book was packed with dark romance and bdsm and well written for only 109 pages. Please watch your triggers as this is a game of survival with trauma and lots of emotions. What an emotional roller coaster that I absolutely loved and can’t wait for the next book!

“Riley Kingston…
The love of my life.
My Protector.
I asked him to retire the mask so we could move on and heal. Rebuild what was stolen from us.
But any sane person knows that keeping him on a leash was next to impossible.

It was only a matter of time…

Little did I know I would become part of his twisted game.
Tonight, we’d bathe in blood and I’d love every minute of it.

*This novella is part of Riley and Maya's duet in the Crestview Cardinals dark hockey universe and can be read as a standalone*


Due to the heavy themes of this story it is for 18+”

[Dary Pamias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of an Advanced Reader Copy – UnWholly Night by Alicia Ramos

I received this book as an ARC, and for a novella, it really packed a punch. Riley and Maya’s story immediately pulled me in. From the very first pages, their connection and the tension surrounding their situation had me completely invested.

At times, I did feel like I was dropped right into the middle of a larger story. It left me curious about what happened before and wanting more of their world and their past. And when I turned the final page and realized that was it, my immediate reaction was: noooo, I need more!

This novella does touch on some serious and sensitive topics, including assault and human trafficking, which adds depth and intensity to the story. Despite its short length, it delivers strong emotions and a compelling dynamic between Riley and Maya.

Overall, it’s a powerful little read that definitely leaves you wanting more. I would absolutely read a longer book about these characters.

[Nikki B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unwholly Night is a short little novella that is a spicy dark romance.
While this could be read as a standalone, it felt a little off for me personally. I haven't read any of the other books in the series, so going into this little novella blind felt like walking into a room mid conversation. Nonetheless, nothing of importance from the series is brought into this novella, so it definitely could be a standalone.
For this being a standalone, it s very well written. The chemistry between Freckles/Maya and King/Riley is off the charts. I love that he always checks for consent first, no matter what. Riley wants to hunt down the individuals responsible for the trauma in Maya's past. Being a hockey player, he puts on his mask and becomes a whole other person. He wants to turn his revenge, into a game.
This story is dark, so be sure to check the trigger warnings before getting into this one.

[Jomy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unwholly Night by Alicia Ramos completely pulled me in from the start. The story has such a dark, intense atmosphere that keeps you hooked the entire time. There’s a strong mix of suspense, emotional tension, and complicated character dynamics that make every chapter feel gripping. The writing does a great job building the mood of the story, making the world feel mysterious, heavy, and impossible to walk away from.

What really stood out to me was the emotional depth of the characters and the way their relationships develop through all the chaos and secrets. The connections feel messy, raw, and real, which makes the story even more addictive. If you enjoy darker romances with tension, drama, and characters that make you feel every emotion, Unwholly Night is definitely a book worth adding to your

[Lorena Garcia -- Brittany's Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

The conclusion to Riley and Maya was one brutal one!

Riley has been recovering from what he went through six months prior and Maya has been an angel, she's been by his side and just being patient for him to be comfortable with himself again.

The way they play (in their dungeon), phew, I can't see myself doing all that. But they fit perfectly together, they both enjoy the same things and they are both very sinister. She is just as depraved as he is and he's not going to stop hunting down the men who caused her harm and she'll be waiting until the day comes and she has to step in and help him with their demise.

It was short, dark and one heck of a conclusion. I totally recommend this duet to anyone who loves all the triggers because let me tell ya ... there are a lot of triggers but it was such a good story!

[Nicole Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unholly Night is dark, haunting, and beautifully intense from beginning to end. Alicia Ramos delivers a novella that feels both raw and poetic, weaving love, devotion, and danger into something that lingers long after the final page.
The connection between King and Maya is powerful and consuming, built on loyalty, sacrifice, and a bond that refuses to break even in the face of darkness. The atmosphere is rich and almost cinematic, heavy with symbolism and emotion that pulls you deeper with every chapter.
For a novella, it packs a surprising emotional punch. It is gritty yet tender, brutal yet vulnerable. If you love dark romance with gothic undertones and high stakes passion, this one is absolutely worth the read.

[SinfulReadsByV · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a tasty little novella, the perfect, delectable addition to King and Maya’s storyline. Can read solo but for the full King effect, read UnWholly Angels so you can fully appreciate everything.
King has a certain way he loves to play, and I am absolutely here for it. He always has his tricks… and Maya? She’s the best kind of treat. Their dynamic just works so well.
And those last few pages? I was in a full chokehold. How much longer until book two?! 😩
If you loved UnWholly Angels, you’ll devour this steamy, slightly crazy appetizer while we wait (impatiently) for what’s next. What a night this was!

*Revenge
*Novella
*Hide & Seek
*Edging
*Masked MMC
*Hockey elements
*Unhinged MC's

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a bonus story for Maya and Riley . Although it says it's a bonus story that can be read as a standalone it does make more sense if you have read UnWholly Angel.

Riley / King is looking for revenge of anyone that has hurt Maya and he does it in the kinky way that King loves. He knows when Maya has had enough and when he can push her a little more.

It did take me a minute to remember why Maya was said when Chloe has the kids over. I maybe should have done a re-read to have it fresher in my mind.

I was a little gutted for that kid having to go back to the home especially know what Maya and Riley had been through there. I really hope that in book 3 they can save him and eliminate the Rocco size pest problem once and for all.

[Theresa Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed the entire Crestview Cardinals Universe so far, and UnWholly Night was no exception. Even though it’s a novella, it still manages to deliver the same intensity, emotion, and tension that make this world so compelling. King and Maya continue to be such complex, damaged, and fiercely loyal characters. Their relationship isn’t simple or easy, which is part of what makes their story so addictive to follow. This installment adds another layer to their journey and keeps the dark, gritty tone that the series does so well.

I also appreciate how even the shorter stories still feel meaningful to the overall arc of the characters and the world. Nothing feels like filler—it all builds on what we already know and love about them.Overall, I really enjoyed this addition to the series and flew through it. If you’ve been following King and Maya, this one is definitely worth the read (if you haven’t you seriously should be!). I’m eagerly waiting for the remaining books set in this world and can’t wait to see where the story goes next.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s dark, intense, and completely gripping from the moment you start. I thought I’d read a little and come back later but nope… I ended up finishing it in one go.

Riley and Maya as a duo are seriously addictive to read about. The connection between them feels fierce, emotional, and a little chaotic in the best way. There’s so much intensity wrapped into their dynamic that every scene feels charged with emotion. I couldn’t look away from it.

What really impressed me was how much depth was packed into such a short story. It still managed to feel raw and powerful while keeping that dark romance energy that makes the whole thing so compelling. I’m definitely invested in seeing where their story goes next because now I need the rest of it.

[Jen Wiggins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Freckles and King, or Maya and Riley. Either name that you want to call them they are a power couple that truly understands one another. This novella gives a short glimpse into their lives and past struggles, and leaves me wanting to read the previous book and the upcoming. Alicia weaves a story that shows that you can heal from past trauma and find someone who will understand what you need and help you discover yourself. King says to Maya “Those before me never mattered because I am the only one who gets to touch your soul.” I felt this deep in my soul, and reading it again, it resonates through me.

This standalone can be read without reading the first book in Crestview Cardinals series. I would suggest reading the TW before delving into this book because it is a darker romance.

[Rima Ayoub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unwholly Night by Alicia Ramos was a quick but powerful read! I didn’t realize going in that this was a novella/short story connected to the Crestview Cardinals series, and now I’m honestly hooked. I need to know more about Riley and Maya. Their dynamic pulled me in immediately, and I’m so curious about their past and everything they went through to get to this point.

Even as a short story, this still delivered a full, intense plot that kept me engaged from start to finish. Definitely check your triggers before diving in, because it does explore some heavy themes.

I really enjoyed this read and now I’m excited to explore more of Alicia Ramos’s work. Her storytelling has me wanting more! Xo 💋