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The Colony Carnivale #16
Ensnared
Not yet published
Expected 16 Oct 26They say The Colony Carnivale appears without warning—rolling into forgotten towns under blood-red skies, offering laughter, lights, and salvation for the bored and broken. But beneath the painted tents, hides a different sin, each act a different obsession. Lust. Power. Revenge. Fear. The Carnivale feeds on it all—and so do the souls trapped inside..
The games are rigged, the prizes are cursed, and the performers aren’t quite human. So buy your ticket, brave the insanity, and pray the lights go out after you do. Because once you enter, the show owns you.
Welcome to The Colony Carnivale—where the fun never dies, it just screams louder.
The games are rigged, the prizes are cursed, and the performers aren’t quite human. So buy your ticket, brave the insanity, and pray the lights go out after you do. Because once you enter, the show owns you.
Welcome to The Colony Carnivale—where the fun never dies, it just screams louder.
75 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 16, 2026
About the author
Amaya Jax
8 books72 followersAmaya Jax is a Flemish author from Belgium whose work explores the shadows between love and fear.
She mostly writes under this pen name, Dark romance/Fantasy and Horror Erotic stories.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading with a cat curled up beside her or playing video games.
She mostly writes under this pen name, Dark romance/Fantasy and Horror Erotic stories.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading with a cat curled up beside her or playing video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 17, 2026
Sixteenth book in the series 🎪
Penny is sold by her father, to a man at the Carnivale. She is r@ped, stealing her virginity but never fear Penny is a feisty one and both the guys end up 🔪💀 She makes her escape but as we know this Carnivale no-one escapes. Penny is drawn to an arcade where she meets Astra…
I enjoyed the writing of this one, the telling of a story without giving us it all making it all the more intense. Of course your brain does all the work to ensure it fills in the gaps.
FF | SA | Violence | C@nnibalism | Manipulation | Non Con | Substance Abuse | Gore
Penny is sold by her father, to a man at the Carnivale. She is r@ped, stealing her virginity but never fear Penny is a feisty one and both the guys end up 🔪💀 She makes her escape but as we know this Carnivale no-one escapes. Penny is drawn to an arcade where she meets Astra…
I enjoyed the writing of this one, the telling of a story without giving us it all making it all the more intense. Of course your brain does all the work to ensure it fills in the gaps.
FF | SA | Violence | C@nnibalism | Manipulation | Non Con | Substance Abuse | Gore
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Ensnared completely blew me away. Watching Penny go from being sold out by her own father to unleashing absolute, blood-soaked feminine rage was insanely cathartic to read. The dynamic when she stumbles into the arcade and meets Astra the carny running a game no one wins is dynamic perfection. Astra despises the wealthy, yet both women ended up in the Carnivale through similar circumstances, making their manipulation tactics and pull toward each other so fascinating. The writing keeps you guessing, letting your imagination fill in the dark gaps while delivering top-tier FF dark romance. Plus, the included artwork is incredible
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trapped… and never wanting to be set free.
Amaya Jax weaves pure magic with Ensnared, and I was caught from the very first page. The opening hits so hard: realizing the father you trusted isn’t the man you thought, running from horrors too close to home, seeking shelter in a carnival that may be dangerous… but nowhere near as dangerous as the world outside.
Every path twists back. Every exit is another trap. And then, her. The carny who runs the game no one has ever won. One look and everything shifts: the danger doesn’t feel like something to escape anymore. It feels like something to step into. The pull between them is undeniable, electric, and utterly addictive, she knows the rules, she knows the stakes, and yet… she doesn’t want to win. Not if winning means walking away.
It’s that surrender that makes this book sing, the quiet, terrifying realization that safety isn’t what you’re looking for anymore. It’s her. The writing is lush, atmospheric, and charged with that signature Carnivale darkness: beautiful, seductive, and impossible to outrun.
Another perfect entry in a series that just keeps getting bolder, sweeter, and infinitely more dangerous. You’ll be ensnared too, guaranteed. 💀✨
Amaya Jax weaves pure magic with Ensnared, and I was caught from the very first page. The opening hits so hard: realizing the father you trusted isn’t the man you thought, running from horrors too close to home, seeking shelter in a carnival that may be dangerous… but nowhere near as dangerous as the world outside.
Every path twists back. Every exit is another trap. And then, her. The carny who runs the game no one has ever won. One look and everything shifts: the danger doesn’t feel like something to escape anymore. It feels like something to step into. The pull between them is undeniable, electric, and utterly addictive, she knows the rules, she knows the stakes, and yet… she doesn’t want to win. Not if winning means walking away.
It’s that surrender that makes this book sing, the quiet, terrifying realization that safety isn’t what you’re looking for anymore. It’s her. The writing is lush, atmospheric, and charged with that signature Carnivale darkness: beautiful, seductive, and impossible to outrun.
Another perfect entry in a series that just keeps getting bolder, sweeter, and infinitely more dangerous. You’ll be ensnared too, guaranteed. 💀✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story follows Penny. She absolutely was not a willing particular to the Carnivale, seeing as her father sold her to whims of whatever. So we need not dabble in those occurrences. However, feminine rage is a beautiful thing, and we absolutely get to see it in its blood filled form. Penny stumbles along towards Astra, and that's where the max amount of manipulation one can take begins. The irony here is Astra dislikes the rich for how she was raised up. However, they both ended up at the Carnivale because of the same things just done differently. My my how things could be different for people if they could see things from an outside perspective. Anywho, if you like erotic horror mixed with a healthy dose of feminine rage, here ya go! There is also some really beautiful artwork in there for you to enjoy!
September 25, 2026
Disclaimer: I'm reading these novels as a set of ARCs! Please note that they are dark, and come with a lot of trigger warnings! I'm quite new to dark novels, and they seem to hit me one of two ways - either I have the reaction of being grossly fascinated and unable to look away (a bit like when humans see an accident and can't help but side eye), or it turns my stomach and makes me flinch - both reactions I find interesting as a reader, but I tend to prefer the horror of the first! What type of dark reader you are with your own preferences/triggers, will no doubt affect how you find each of these reads and you should always check your trigger warnings first.
I LOVE the dark reads where the characters really come into power, and feast off all of their dark past, just owning it, and then taking retribution and this was one of those awesome reads! The start of it was a hard read for me, for my own personal triggers, but I absolutely loved Penny, and the plot immediately ensnared me (pun intended :P )! I was so happy to see some FF romance, and Astra was such a fun, dark romance interest. It's about desire clouding your judgement, trusting those dark aspects of your psyche, and manipulation.
The artwork was such an amazing bonus!! This one is going up there in my top 3 of the carnivale journey!
I LOVE the dark reads where the characters really come into power, and feast off all of their dark past, just owning it, and then taking retribution and this was one of those awesome reads! The start of it was a hard read for me, for my own personal triggers, but I absolutely loved Penny, and the plot immediately ensnared me (pun intended :P )! I was so happy to see some FF romance, and Astra was such a fun, dark romance interest. It's about desire clouding your judgement, trusting those dark aspects of your psyche, and manipulation.
The artwork was such an amazing bonus!! This one is going up there in my top 3 of the carnivale journey!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okkkk not only did I devour this one in one sitting but it left me wanting so soooo much more! I devoured this story, it was just too good! Seeing Penny go through everything that her father put her through and then completely owning her darkness. I would probably eat Astras cookies and ask for seconds 🫣😂 I have never read an Amaya Jax book before but this was a darn good introduction to her work and I will absolutely 100% be checking more out! I hope we get to hear more of about penny later on in the carnivale because I definitely need to know more!
September 28, 2026
Disclaimer: I am reading these books as a set of ARCS. Note they are dark and come with quite a bit of trigger warnings.
This was Book 16 of The Colony Carnivale. Astra and Penny’s story was very rare; I would even say even sweet in its own way especially when dealing with Dario. This Carnivale keeps getting better and better and just as soon as you think you have things figured out something changes and you realize you do not.
I highly suggest you read the series! This book was wonderful.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was Book 16 of The Colony Carnivale. Astra and Penny’s story was very rare; I would even say even sweet in its own way especially when dealing with Dario. This Carnivale keeps getting better and better and just as soon as you think you have things figured out something changes and you realize you do not.
I highly suggest you read the series! This book was wonderful.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ensnared was really good.
As always I love giving the reminder I am currently reading a set of arcs that is for 31 days and apart of the Colony carnivale.
What does that mean for these?
Oooohh I'm so glad you asked.
This storyline follows Penny who was currently being sold by her father. A terrible man just allowing to do this to his child. She's a grown adult but still. She meets Astra and just the easiest way to put it. She is bewitched by this woman and completely in love.
You want more? Go check it out 😘
As always I love giving the reminder I am currently reading a set of arcs that is for 31 days and apart of the Colony carnivale.
What does that mean for these?
Oooohh I'm so glad you asked.
This storyline follows Penny who was currently being sold by her father. A terrible man just allowing to do this to his child. She's a grown adult but still. She meets Astra and just the easiest way to put it. She is bewitched by this woman and completely in love.
You want more? Go check it out 😘
Review of advance copy
Of Amaya you did not expect this oh my God damn this was desired fight just all kind of boring construction going on in this book and Penny she let her desire cloud her judgment like the moment she ate that first cookie I knew she was done for it in at the end we got there I knew she wasn't gonna escape we know Dario loves collecting as many people as he can oh my gosh this book was amazing I loved the spice I love the Chase and all of it it 🖤😌😈
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is novella #16 in the series. Amaya Jax gives us manipulation, cannibalism, trauma and more. Please check the tropes and trigger warnings if that is something you typically do. Ensnared introduces us to Penny and Astra. The feminine rage is strong in this story. It also wasn't super spicy. Overall Amaya did a good job! I will be reviewing all novellas in the series and they can be found on my profile!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Short, sapphic erotic horror and damn did this one hit.
Poor Penny. 😭 I really felt for her throughout this, and that ending was somehow heartbreaking and bittersweet at the same time.
This was brutal, punchy, sexy, and managed to pack a hell of a lot into such a short read. Exactly the kind of novella I can absolutely inhale in one sitting.
Another fantastic addition to the Carnival and an easy 5 ⭐ from me. 🖤
Poor Penny. 😭 I really felt for her throughout this, and that ending was somehow heartbreaking and bittersweet at the same time.
This was brutal, punchy, sexy, and managed to pack a hell of a lot into such a short read. Exactly the kind of novella I can absolutely inhale in one sitting.
Another fantastic addition to the Carnival and an easy 5 ⭐ from me. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ensnared pulled me completely under.
Amaya Jax creates such a claustrophobic and addictive atmosphere. The writing is rich, and the mix of obsession, danger, and twisted heat had me turning the pages quickly.
This one is short, intense, and stays with you. Definitely one of the more memorable reads in this part of the series
Amaya Jax creates such a claustrophobic and addictive atmosphere. The writing is rich, and the mix of obsession, danger, and twisted heat had me turning the pages quickly.
This one is short, intense, and stays with you. Definitely one of the more memorable reads in this part of the series
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 16 of The Colony Carnivale. This was an interesting story. It follows Penny who gets sold into the Carnivale by her father. This had the right amount of gore and feminine rage. We get to meet Astra who runs an arcade tent for the Carnivale. This story had my attention through the whole thing wanting to know what was going to happen.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ensnared, # 16 in the Colony Carnivale series was another fun, quick read!
This time, the Carnivale takes Penny hostage, and unbeknownst to her, everything changes when she meets Astra. Suddenly, nothing else matters. She couldn’t be happier to find herself exactly where she belongs—another member of the wonderfully unhinged Carnivale. I am loving my journey through this crazy Carnivale series.
This time, the Carnivale takes Penny hostage, and unbeknownst to her, everything changes when she meets Astra. Suddenly, nothing else matters. She couldn’t be happier to find herself exactly where she belongs—another member of the wonderfully unhinged Carnivale. I am loving my journey through this crazy Carnivale series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT'S THE END?! I need more! I so badly need to see these two again, and that chase scene?! 👀 Babe, never doubt that you're a baddie because you are a fucking baddie!
Once again, if you want to know what the hell I'm talking about, read this book, because holy hell, I'm in my feelings and I NEED MORE OF THESE TWO! 😭🔥
Once again, if you want to know what the hell I'm talking about, read this book, because holy hell, I'm in my feelings and I NEED MORE OF THESE TWO! 😭🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Number 16 in the series and we are introduced to Penny and Astra. Penny is brought to the carnivale by her father who sells her. Her virginity taken from her and as she kills the men and escapes, she meets Astra.
We learn how Astra was brought to the carnivale and the horrors that Penny must go through to stay with Astra.
Amaya brought the spice and the lesbian vibes!
We learn how Astra was brought to the carnivale and the horrors that Penny must go through to stay with Astra.
Amaya brought the spice and the lesbian vibes!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 16 of the Colony Carnivale...
Oh innocent Penny, your father has sold you to the devil! How ever will you deal with this?
Penny grows a pair of massive balls and takes her fate into her own hands. Love this baddie!
Entering an arcade she meets Astra who, with Dario's help, puts our Penny girl to the ultimate test.
Will Penny become the next victim of the Carnivale? Read to find out! xoxo
Oh innocent Penny, your father has sold you to the devil! How ever will you deal with this?
Penny grows a pair of massive balls and takes her fate into her own hands. Love this baddie!
Entering an arcade she meets Astra who, with Dario's help, puts our Penny girl to the ultimate test.
Will Penny become the next victim of the Carnivale? Read to find out! xoxo
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this! It's Penny & Astra's story & it was heartbreaking & liberating. Penny has been in a horrible situation at home. Her dad sales her & she has so much trauma; but she gets her revenge very quickly & when Astra takes her in, well the carnage is inescapable; the Carnivale never lets anyone go. This is a dark book, recommend this novella & author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 16 of the colony carnivale.
First I love the pictures that popped up. This book hits the heart. A father that sells her to a guy that steals her vCard. But don't worry, her rage makes up for a lot. 😜 Pete. S. Cannibalism, non-con and more.
First I love the pictures that popped up. This book hits the heart. A father that sells her to a guy that steals her vCard. But don't worry, her rage makes up for a lot. 😜 Pete. S. Cannibalism, non-con and more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yup yup yup. I would gladly eat Astra's cookies any day.
Ensnared was fast paced and hard to put down.
Penny is a little baddie with a knife and the insta-lust w Astra was to die for. The character art in this was *chef's kiss*
Ensnared was fast paced and hard to put down.
Penny is a little baddie with a knife and the insta-lust w Astra was to die for. The character art in this was *chef's kiss*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pretty Penny ... oh , I loved this one.
She's a badass with those knives , she's fierce until she's submissive .
Want a cookie? The hunt ... yea, you wanna keep reading this series. So good . So wrong, but so right. Read the books.
She's a badass with those knives , she's fierce until she's submissive .
Want a cookie? The hunt ... yea, you wanna keep reading this series. So good . So wrong, but so right. Read the books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The vivid details that went into this story with the heart and dragging you in, is immaculate. Ugh, I need the character art ASAP.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the arc opportunity!
This was a fun, quick read and I really enjoyed my read! It was compelling with intriguing characters and great writing.
This was a fun, quick read and I really enjoyed my read! It was compelling with intriguing characters and great writing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The gore man....I am so here for it all!!!! Definitely check the warnings for these before diving in they are pretty dark and heavy but I am loving them!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story was fun to read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really dark and spicy
Quick ff read
I hope the author does more ff books 🥹😍
Quick ff read
I hope the author does more ff books 🥹😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOODNESS CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS
Wow!!! Love this book! the gore the spice all of it!!
Wow!!! Love this book! the gore the spice all of it!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fantastic book! Feminine rage at its best 🙌🏻
Appreciated this twist on lotus-eaters 😏
PLEASE BE MINDFUL OF THE TRIGGERS!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Appreciated this twist on lotus-eaters 😏
PLEASE BE MINDFUL OF THE TRIGGERS!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
A nice, quick read. A tale about how quick things can change. Things can never be taken at face value at the Carnivale.
Review of advance copy
Arc reader review.
This one was pretty good. Our dear sweet Penny being sold only to find herself being ensnared by a beautiful woman who just wanted to taste love. I loved the arts too.
This one was pretty good. Our dear sweet Penny being sold only to find herself being ensnared by a beautiful woman who just wanted to taste love. I loved the arts too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews