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Vengeance
For years, Tyrone Houston was known as the quiet, dependable man who ran the Houston Family Funeral Home and Crematorium. A pillar of the community. A devoted father. A man who saw the dead every day — and treated them with care.
Or so everyone thought.
When Tyrone dies, his children receive a shocking final a scavenger hunt through his past. Each clue leads them deeper into hidden rooms, secret records, and graves that shouldn’t exist. The truth waiting at the end is worse than any nightmare. Tyrone Houston wasn’t just burying the dead.
He was creating them.
And his daughters had no clue that a real life boogie man was living right in their home.
If you haven't gotten right with the Lord, now is the time. This is not for the faint of heart.
Or so everyone thought.
When Tyrone dies, his children receive a shocking final a scavenger hunt through his past. Each clue leads them deeper into hidden rooms, secret records, and graves that shouldn’t exist. The truth waiting at the end is worse than any nightmare. Tyrone Houston wasn’t just burying the dead.
He was creating them.
And his daughters had no clue that a real life boogie man was living right in their home.
If you haven't gotten right with the Lord, now is the time. This is not for the faint of heart.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
April 25, 2026
I’ve been really enjoying these short thriller novellas lately. Octavia Grant’s Cutthroat blew me away earlier this year. After that, Anna J’s The Hunt series equally impressed me. They both have a way of pulling you into the minds of their characters and somehow making you an accessory to murder(s). I find myself not only justifying this ruthless behavior but also low-key finding it satisfying, in a sadistic, Christian kind of way.
Olivia Renee Wallace is a new author to me, but I believe she writes romance. So, when someone asked me to read an ARC of Vengeance, I agreed. Two queens of the thriller genre with a slash of romance, and a title like Vengeance. Count me in.
For years, people knew Tyrone Houston as the quiet, dependable man who ran the Houston Family Funeral Home and Crematorium. He’s a pillar of the community, a devoted father, and a man who treated the dead with care. At least, that’s what everyone thought.
After he suddenly dies, his daughters receive a shocking final request. They must go on a scavenger hunt to uncover who their father really was. And what they find is worse than any nightmare. They’re now forced to make their own moral decisions.
This book is heavier than a backpack full of textbooks on the first day of school. Please check your trigger warnings. There’s a lot of blood, torture, and death. My favorite quote: “If you haven’t gotten right with the Lord, now is the time.”
I enjoyed this read, and my favorite part was the dialogue between the sisters, it felt so real. I also didn’t realize how hot getting busy in a funeral home, in the presence of the dead, could be… thanks, Olivia lol. Can’t wait for book two. Great job, ladies!
Olivia Renee Wallace is a new author to me, but I believe she writes romance. So, when someone asked me to read an ARC of Vengeance, I agreed. Two queens of the thriller genre with a slash of romance, and a title like Vengeance. Count me in.
For years, people knew Tyrone Houston as the quiet, dependable man who ran the Houston Family Funeral Home and Crematorium. He’s a pillar of the community, a devoted father, and a man who treated the dead with care. At least, that’s what everyone thought.
After he suddenly dies, his daughters receive a shocking final request. They must go on a scavenger hunt to uncover who their father really was. And what they find is worse than any nightmare. They’re now forced to make their own moral decisions.
This book is heavier than a backpack full of textbooks on the first day of school. Please check your trigger warnings. There’s a lot of blood, torture, and death. My favorite quote: “If you haven’t gotten right with the Lord, now is the time.”
I enjoyed this read, and my favorite part was the dialogue between the sisters, it felt so real. I also didn’t realize how hot getting busy in a funeral home, in the presence of the dead, could be… thanks, Olivia lol. Can’t wait for book two. Great job, ladies!
April 28, 2026
Dear Readers,
There has to be something a little off about me for how much I enjoyed Vengeance.
I’m serious.
Because this isn’t even the kind of story I say I like. I don’t reach for serial killer books. I don’t go looking for darkness on a shelf. And yet (somewhere in the background) I do. In documentaries. In late-night YouTube spirals. In podcasts I pretend aren’t part of me. So reading this felt like finally admitting something I usually keep quiet.
And maybe that’s why it worked.
Anna J didn’t ease into it. That first sentence? It grabbed me and didn’t let go. I told myself I’d just read a chapter. That turned into finishing the whole thing in one sitting. I didn’t want to look away, even when I probably should have.
There’s something deeply unsettling about the idea of inheriting a legacy like that. Not money. Not a house. But serial killer status. Something stained. The kind of truth that rewires how you see yourself.
And if I’m being honest, I wanted more of it.
That’s my only real issue, the length. It felt too short for what it could’ve been. I kept thinking about Millie, about the stories we didn’t get. There was more there. More depth, more darkness, more understanding that never fully unfolded. It left me curious in a way that felt slightly unfinished.
Still… it worked.
Maybe because it didn’t pretend to be anything else. It was sharp, fast, and a little addictive. The kind of book you don’t analyze while reading, you just keep going.
If you’re anything like me, someone who says “this isn’t my genre” but secretly leans into it anyway...you’ll probably get it. You’ll probably finish it faster than you meant to.
And maybe, like me, you’ll sit there after and think…
why did I enjoy that so much?
#ARCReview
From Love,
The Letters
There has to be something a little off about me for how much I enjoyed Vengeance.
I’m serious.
Because this isn’t even the kind of story I say I like. I don’t reach for serial killer books. I don’t go looking for darkness on a shelf. And yet (somewhere in the background) I do. In documentaries. In late-night YouTube spirals. In podcasts I pretend aren’t part of me. So reading this felt like finally admitting something I usually keep quiet.
And maybe that’s why it worked.
Anna J didn’t ease into it. That first sentence? It grabbed me and didn’t let go. I told myself I’d just read a chapter. That turned into finishing the whole thing in one sitting. I didn’t want to look away, even when I probably should have.
There’s something deeply unsettling about the idea of inheriting a legacy like that. Not money. Not a house. But serial killer status. Something stained. The kind of truth that rewires how you see yourself.
And if I’m being honest, I wanted more of it.
That’s my only real issue, the length. It felt too short for what it could’ve been. I kept thinking about Millie, about the stories we didn’t get. There was more there. More depth, more darkness, more understanding that never fully unfolded. It left me curious in a way that felt slightly unfinished.
Still… it worked.
Maybe because it didn’t pretend to be anything else. It was sharp, fast, and a little addictive. The kind of book you don’t analyze while reading, you just keep going.
If you’re anything like me, someone who says “this isn’t my genre” but secretly leans into it anyway...you’ll probably get it. You’ll probably finish it faster than you meant to.
And maybe, like me, you’ll sit there after and think…
why did I enjoy that so much?
#ARCReview
From Love,
The Letters
April 28, 2026
This was an ARC read.
Honestly I loved this little thriller. I think the author’s writing flowed cohesively. There were moments that could have been baked out a little more to add the depth needed to make it a little more plausible. However overall I enjoyed it.
Honestly I loved this little thriller. I think the author’s writing flowed cohesively. There were moments that could have been baked out a little more to add the depth needed to make it a little more plausible. However overall I enjoyed it.
June 12, 2026
The concept for this book is great, and while I really thought I’d love it, it was just OK. The strengths are the originality of the story, interesting characters, and the creepy factor. However, there were many more things that made this book less enjoyable than there were pluses.
For starters, the plot was all over the place and there was so much inconsistency and also repetition. At times the way characters talked seemed to change from one chapter to the next, especially Tyrone.
Organizationally, the past and present timeline and the years selected didn’t always match up and it made the story and connections that would help to understand the book and characters so confusing. There was a lot of complex relationships between generations in the Houston family that never got explored and so the motivations of the characters toward each other and in the main reveal regarding the business just did not hit. This is especially true between Cecil and Tyrone, but also between the sisters themselves and the relationships to each other and their parents.
The “code” for the business was all over the place in ways that undermined the whole vengeance narrative in that some things made sense as things characters might seek a specific kind of vengeance for and others were not along the same lines, but also treated as the same. The only explanation for that would be if the actions of the Houston’s are not necessarily always heroic — and they don’t have to be — but the book is resolved in ways that only draw that conclusion.
There were also some interesting characters that were introduced and also wasted, such as Darnell and Andre.
This was most evident with Millie, such that when she did come up it didn’t have the overall impact that would have been possible if she had been made a more fully realized character earlier.
I think almost everything I did not enjoy about this book could be explained by the challenge of coauthoring which requires a really sharp editor to bring cohesion and I just didn’t feel that happened here. I don’t regret reading the book. I read this book as a fan of Octavia Grant’s work, and I saw some of her in this book but it was missing the real suspense and payoff that is usual for her. I haven’t read the work of the other authors but I hope to try each just to get a sense of their own writing and if their other work is something that I would normally enjoy.
For starters, the plot was all over the place and there was so much inconsistency and also repetition. At times the way characters talked seemed to change from one chapter to the next, especially Tyrone.
Organizationally, the past and present timeline and the years selected didn’t always match up and it made the story and connections that would help to understand the book and characters so confusing. There was a lot of complex relationships between generations in the Houston family that never got explored and so the motivations of the characters toward each other and in the main reveal regarding the business just did not hit. This is especially true between Cecil and Tyrone, but also between the sisters themselves and the relationships to each other and their parents.
The “code” for the business was all over the place in ways that undermined the whole vengeance narrative in that some things made sense as things characters might seek a specific kind of vengeance for and others were not along the same lines, but also treated as the same. The only explanation for that would be if the actions of the Houston’s are not necessarily always heroic — and they don’t have to be — but the book is resolved in ways that only draw that conclusion.
There were also some interesting characters that were introduced and also wasted, such as Darnell and Andre.
This was most evident with Millie, such that when she did come up it didn’t have the overall impact that would have been possible if she had been made a more fully realized character earlier.
I think almost everything I did not enjoy about this book could be explained by the challenge of coauthoring which requires a really sharp editor to bring cohesion and I just didn’t feel that happened here. I don’t regret reading the book. I read this book as a fan of Octavia Grant’s work, and I saw some of her in this book but it was missing the real suspense and payoff that is usual for her. I haven’t read the work of the other authors but I hope to try each just to get a sense of their own writing and if their other work is something that I would normally enjoy.
April 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vengeance is dark, gruesome, and honestly kind of haunting. Set around a funeral home, it takes something that should feel solemn and turns it into a place full of secrets and unease.
This book leans hard into revenge—but not the satisfying kind. It’s messy, emotional, and pretty disturbing at times. The slow-burn pacing works well, peeling back layers of buried secrets little by little. I also liked that the characters aren’t clearly good or bad—it makes everything feel more intense and unpredictable.
Tropes: dark revenge, buried secrets, morally gray characters, slow-burn suspense, gothic horror vibes.
Definitely not a light read, but if you like eerie, atmospheric stories that stick with you, this one delivers!
Vengeance is dark, gruesome, and honestly kind of haunting. Set around a funeral home, it takes something that should feel solemn and turns it into a place full of secrets and unease.
This book leans hard into revenge—but not the satisfying kind. It’s messy, emotional, and pretty disturbing at times. The slow-burn pacing works well, peeling back layers of buried secrets little by little. I also liked that the characters aren’t clearly good or bad—it makes everything feel more intense and unpredictable.
Tropes: dark revenge, buried secrets, morally gray characters, slow-burn suspense, gothic horror vibes.
Definitely not a light read, but if you like eerie, atmospheric stories that stick with you, this one delivers!
May 13, 2026
The Boogeyman may not always be the villain… 👀
This felt like an episode of Criminal Minds. Creepy, chaotic, unsettling, and packed with the kind of unhinged energy only Octavia Grant can deliver. I was hooked from start to finish.
All three authors absolutely understood the assignment with this collab. Watching the MMC slowly unravel into a serial killer was disturbingly fascinating, and the psychological tension kept me locked in the entire time. His POV was EVERYTHING!
And honestly? For a novella, this delivered. The pacing was sharp, the story never felt rushed, and now I’m left wanting more from the Houston family. I would absolutely read a sequel that follows them and the funeral home business, because there’s still so much dark potential there.
This felt like an episode of Criminal Minds. Creepy, chaotic, unsettling, and packed with the kind of unhinged energy only Octavia Grant can deliver. I was hooked from start to finish.
All three authors absolutely understood the assignment with this collab. Watching the MMC slowly unravel into a serial killer was disturbingly fascinating, and the psychological tension kept me locked in the entire time. His POV was EVERYTHING!
And honestly? For a novella, this delivered. The pacing was sharp, the story never felt rushed, and now I’m left wanting more from the Houston family. I would absolutely read a sequel that follows them and the funeral home business, because there’s still so much dark potential there.
April 27, 2026
**ARC REVIEW **
Chiiilllllllleeeeeeeeeee....I'm so glad to be right with the Lord!
I appreciate the Trigger Warnings on this book. If you never watched/liked a Jigsaw movie then this book is not for you.
Having a serial killer be a mortician was a perfect crime cover up. The book had multiple typos, but overall I enjoyed this story. I have a feeling that Tyrone had something to do with the disappearing of the guys that killed Andre's brother.
Well Done Ladies!
Chiiilllllllleeeeeeeeeee....I'm so glad to be right with the Lord!
I appreciate the Trigger Warnings on this book. If you never watched/liked a Jigsaw movie then this book is not for you.
Having a serial killer be a mortician was a perfect crime cover up. The book had multiple typos, but overall I enjoyed this story. I have a feeling that Tyrone had something to do with the disappearing of the guys that killed Andre's brother.
Well Done Ladies!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2026
Vengeance by Anna J. I found this novella to be highly engaging. The dark and gruesome content is certainly not for the faint of heart. I was thoroughly captivated within the first 10 pages of the actual narrative. If you have a penchant for revenge stories, this one will linger in your mind, rated 4 stars.
April 27, 2026
Wow
Im am little lost for words on this one. I will come back and do a review a little later lol.
Im am little lost for words on this one. I will come back and do a review a little later lol.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As an ARC reader, I picked up Vengeance thinking I was getting a mystery thriller, but this one goes way darker than I expected—and I mean that in a good way if you like suspense with a disturbing edge.
The story centers on sisters trying to process the death of their father, who everyone believed was a respectable, low-key man running the family funeral home. He had the reputation of being dependable, a solid figure in the community, and a caring husband/father. But once he’s gone, that image starts to crack… fast.
Instead of a normal goodbye, he leaves his children with a twisted set of instructions that basically sends them digging through his past. What they uncover isn’t just secrets—it’s hidden spaces, buried records, and things that should have never been there in the first place. And the deeper they go, the more you realize this man was hiding something far more sinister than anyone could’ve imagined.
One thing I really liked was how the chapters shift between different perspectives. You get both sisters’ points of view, pieces from their father’s past, and… well, I’ll just let you find that part out for yourself when you read Vengeance. It adds another layer to the story and keeps you locked in because you’re constantly piecing things together.
The biggest strength for me was the tension between the sisters. You’ve got grief, old issues, and completely different ways of handling what’s being revealed. It keeps you wondering the whole time—are they going to come together through this, or is everything about to fall apart?
And when the truth really starts to come out… yeah, it’s unsettling. This isn’t just a “he had secrets” type of story—it’s darker, more disturbing, and honestly gives that “how did no one see this?” feeling. The idea that someone so close could be living a double life like that? That’s what makes it stick with you.
Also, I’ll just say this—this is not a light read. It leans into that eerie, almost horror-like space at times. If you like thrillers that push into uncomfortable territory, you’ll probably be hooked. If not… this might be a lot.
Overall, Vengeance delivers on suspense, family drama, and shock value. Just be ready—this one doesn’t hold back.
The story centers on sisters trying to process the death of their father, who everyone believed was a respectable, low-key man running the family funeral home. He had the reputation of being dependable, a solid figure in the community, and a caring husband/father. But once he’s gone, that image starts to crack… fast.
Instead of a normal goodbye, he leaves his children with a twisted set of instructions that basically sends them digging through his past. What they uncover isn’t just secrets—it’s hidden spaces, buried records, and things that should have never been there in the first place. And the deeper they go, the more you realize this man was hiding something far more sinister than anyone could’ve imagined.
One thing I really liked was how the chapters shift between different perspectives. You get both sisters’ points of view, pieces from their father’s past, and… well, I’ll just let you find that part out for yourself when you read Vengeance. It adds another layer to the story and keeps you locked in because you’re constantly piecing things together.
The biggest strength for me was the tension between the sisters. You’ve got grief, old issues, and completely different ways of handling what’s being revealed. It keeps you wondering the whole time—are they going to come together through this, or is everything about to fall apart?
And when the truth really starts to come out… yeah, it’s unsettling. This isn’t just a “he had secrets” type of story—it’s darker, more disturbing, and honestly gives that “how did no one see this?” feeling. The idea that someone so close could be living a double life like that? That’s what makes it stick with you.
Also, I’ll just say this—this is not a light read. It leans into that eerie, almost horror-like space at times. If you like thrillers that push into uncomfortable territory, you’ll probably be hooked. If not… this might be a lot.
Overall, Vengeance delivers on suspense, family drama, and shock value. Just be ready—this one doesn’t hold back.
April 23, 2026
This book was very entertaining from the very beginning and had me locked in almost immediately. Vengeance wastes no time pulling you into the chaos, and once it starts, it really doesn’t let up.
The storyline centers around a shocking discovery after the death of a seemingly respectable man, Tyrone Houston, whose children are forced to uncover dark, hidden truths about his life through a series of clues.  And let me just say… the deeper they dug, the more disturbing things became. This story definitely leans into that dark, unsettling, “what is actually happening right now?” type of vibe — and I was here for it.
What I really enjoyed — and what other readers tend to highlight as well — is how the story unravels like a layered mystery. Each reveal adds another level of shock, and it keeps you curious enough to keep turning pages. The whole “scavenger hunt through secrets” concept was such a creative way to move the plot forward and build suspense. 
The book is definitely dark, creepy, and a little unhinged, but in an entertaining way. It had me clutching my imaginary pearls more than once because some of the things being uncovered were just wild. The tension stayed high throughout, and I was fully invested in seeing how everything would come together.
I will say, some parts felt a little over-the-top or extreme, which might not work for everyone, but honestly, that added to the shock factor for me. And while I enjoyed the ride, I did feel like I wanted just a bit more depth in certain areas, especially when it came to fully exploring some of the reveals and character reactions.
Overall, this was a twisty, dark, and highly entertaining read that kept me hooked. If you enjoy messy family secrets, shocking twists, and stories that push the envelope a bit, this is definitely one to check out.
The storyline centers around a shocking discovery after the death of a seemingly respectable man, Tyrone Houston, whose children are forced to uncover dark, hidden truths about his life through a series of clues.  And let me just say… the deeper they dug, the more disturbing things became. This story definitely leans into that dark, unsettling, “what is actually happening right now?” type of vibe — and I was here for it.
What I really enjoyed — and what other readers tend to highlight as well — is how the story unravels like a layered mystery. Each reveal adds another level of shock, and it keeps you curious enough to keep turning pages. The whole “scavenger hunt through secrets” concept was such a creative way to move the plot forward and build suspense. 
The book is definitely dark, creepy, and a little unhinged, but in an entertaining way. It had me clutching my imaginary pearls more than once because some of the things being uncovered were just wild. The tension stayed high throughout, and I was fully invested in seeing how everything would come together.
I will say, some parts felt a little over-the-top or extreme, which might not work for everyone, but honestly, that added to the shock factor for me. And while I enjoyed the ride, I did feel like I wanted just a bit more depth in certain areas, especially when it came to fully exploring some of the reveals and character reactions.
Overall, this was a twisty, dark, and highly entertaining read that kept me hooked. If you enjoy messy family secrets, shocking twists, and stories that push the envelope a bit, this is definitely one to check out.
April 17, 2026
ARC Review
If you know anything about me, you know I’m a serial killer documentary watcher through and through—so Vengeance felt like it was written directly for readers like me.
This story is eerie, disturbing, and deeply layered in a way that keeps you fully invested from beginning to end. At the center is a family dealing with grief, but what unfolds is something far more sinister. The deeper the characters dig, the more unsettling the truth becomes—and it doesn’t hold back.
What stood out to me the most were the chapters from Tyrone’s point of view. Getting inside his mind and seeing how he justified his actions added a chilling depth to the story. It blurred the line between protector and threat in a way that felt uncomfortable—but incredibly compelling.
This isn’t just about shock value. The tension builds slowly, pulling you further into the story with every chapter. It has that same feeling you get watching a true crime documentary where you keep saying “there’s no way it gets worse than this”… and then it does.
Beyond the suspense, there’s also a strong emotional core centered around legacy, family, and the choices we make when faced with the truth. It adds weight to the story and makes it stick with you long after you finish.
This book is a gem. Dark, gripping, and hard to put down. If you’re a true crime or documentary lover, this one will absolutely pull you in.
If you know anything about me, you know I’m a serial killer documentary watcher through and through—so Vengeance felt like it was written directly for readers like me.
This story is eerie, disturbing, and deeply layered in a way that keeps you fully invested from beginning to end. At the center is a family dealing with grief, but what unfolds is something far more sinister. The deeper the characters dig, the more unsettling the truth becomes—and it doesn’t hold back.
What stood out to me the most were the chapters from Tyrone’s point of view. Getting inside his mind and seeing how he justified his actions added a chilling depth to the story. It blurred the line between protector and threat in a way that felt uncomfortable—but incredibly compelling.
This isn’t just about shock value. The tension builds slowly, pulling you further into the story with every chapter. It has that same feeling you get watching a true crime documentary where you keep saying “there’s no way it gets worse than this”… and then it does.
Beyond the suspense, there’s also a strong emotional core centered around legacy, family, and the choices we make when faced with the truth. It adds weight to the story and makes it stick with you long after you finish.
This book is a gem. Dark, gripping, and hard to put down. If you’re a true crime or documentary lover, this one will absolutely pull you in.
April 26, 2026
This is one of the best book collaborations I have ever read! The authors really did their thing, this book is seamless.
Following the death of Funeral Home Director and doting father (Tyrone Houston), the two daughters inherit what they believe is a prosperous and respectful community service business. Daddy Dearest actually leaves behind his own slice of neighborhood vengeance. The daughters begin to see the reason behind their Dad’s passion. But a deadly event, forces them both to confront what Daddy Dearest was really doing and to choose a side!
Vengeance is the definition of a good thriller. The banter and dialogue between characters was spot on and funny. The characters are flushed out enough to get a good idea of their background and motivation. Tyrone Houston was a man of few words, but of serious and vicious actions. I love this character! I wanted more on Millie, the mother. What was driving her actions are still a little mysterious. I would have loved a deeper dive into Mom’s life.
The Houston Family Funeral home is a great setting for this story- gave it credibility and the “spooky”factor. I like the flashbacks from Tyrone, it was a nice touch. The descriptive details of the Tyrone’s “punishments” are goood! You get a clear idea of what is going down and what the “sinner” is experiencing. And then the authors threw in some unexpected 🌶️🌶️! Everything goes in the funeral home business 😉 I hope there is a sequel with the girls taking the helm.
Following the death of Funeral Home Director and doting father (Tyrone Houston), the two daughters inherit what they believe is a prosperous and respectful community service business. Daddy Dearest actually leaves behind his own slice of neighborhood vengeance. The daughters begin to see the reason behind their Dad’s passion. But a deadly event, forces them both to confront what Daddy Dearest was really doing and to choose a side!
Vengeance is the definition of a good thriller. The banter and dialogue between characters was spot on and funny. The characters are flushed out enough to get a good idea of their background and motivation. Tyrone Houston was a man of few words, but of serious and vicious actions. I love this character! I wanted more on Millie, the mother. What was driving her actions are still a little mysterious. I would have loved a deeper dive into Mom’s life.
The Houston Family Funeral home is a great setting for this story- gave it credibility and the “spooky”factor. I like the flashbacks from Tyrone, it was a nice touch. The descriptive details of the Tyrone’s “punishments” are goood! You get a clear idea of what is going down and what the “sinner” is experiencing. And then the authors threw in some unexpected 🌶️🌶️! Everything goes in the funeral home business 😉 I hope there is a sequel with the girls taking the helm.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A dark, gripping thriller that blurs the line between protector and threat
This was one of those books that completely pulls you into its world and refuses to let go.
At its core is a fascinating and deeply layered character driven plot. Someone the community relies on, trusts without question. And yet, there’s an undercurrent of something far more dangerous operating just out of sight. That contrast is handled so well, creating a constant sense of tension that builds with every chapter.
The authors do an incredible job of maintaining suspense without relying on shock value. Instead, it’s the slow burn, the subtle details, and the unsettling feelings that arise within you and makes you realize that something isn’t quite right that makes this story so compelling.
What I appreciated most was the emotional depth woven into the narrative. Beneath the action mystery and suspense is a story about legacy, responsibility, and the weight of what we leave behind. It adds a haunting quality that really sticks with you.
If you enjoy thrillers that are character-driven, morally complex, and quietly intense, this is definitely one to add to your list. Last but certainly not least BLACK FEMALE INDIE AUTHOR get in to it!!!!!!!!!
June 6, 2026
The number of times I said "WTF?!" while reading this book should probably be studied. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was happening, something else came along and left me staring at the page in shock.
This book is wild, disturbing, and deeply unsettling...yet I couldn't put it down. I was completely invested from beginning to end. Did I enjoy this chaotic experience? Absolutely. Should I be concerned about that? Possibly. 😂
I'm new to Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace, but I've read Octavia Grant before. The moment I saw her name attached to this project, I already had an idea of the kind of ride I was signing up for...and somehow it was even crazier than expected.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart. It's heavy, dark, and packed with disturbing content. The authors put it best in the Trigger Warning page: "If you're sensitive, walk away now. EVERYTHING is fitna happen in this book. ALL THE TRIGGERS..." And they were not exaggerating.
If you don't think you can handle it, don't even try. But if dark, shocking, and completely unhinged stories are your thing? Buckle up and hold on tight, because this book takes you on one wild, crazy ride.
I received this as an ARC. This is is my honest review.
This book is wild, disturbing, and deeply unsettling...yet I couldn't put it down. I was completely invested from beginning to end. Did I enjoy this chaotic experience? Absolutely. Should I be concerned about that? Possibly. 😂
I'm new to Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace, but I've read Octavia Grant before. The moment I saw her name attached to this project, I already had an idea of the kind of ride I was signing up for...and somehow it was even crazier than expected.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart. It's heavy, dark, and packed with disturbing content. The authors put it best in the Trigger Warning page: "If you're sensitive, walk away now. EVERYTHING is fitna happen in this book. ALL THE TRIGGERS..." And they were not exaggerating.
If you don't think you can handle it, don't even try. But if dark, shocking, and completely unhinged stories are your thing? Buckle up and hold on tight, because this book takes you on one wild, crazy ride.
I received this as an ARC. This is is my honest review.
May 9, 2026
OMG!! 😱 The Houston Family Funeral Home is not the typical run of the mill funeral home that everyone thought that it was!! From the outside, it was a genuine, respectful funeral home business. However, deep within those walls held a deep dark secret. 🤔
After their father, Tyrone Houston, mortician and family funeral home owner passed. Sisters, Solana and Selene Houston, inherited the family’s funeral home business. Which leaves them unsure of what to do and how to navigate through it all. Then, random deliveries from their deceased father started to arrive….Yes, y’all packages from the grave!! 🫣
Imagine their shock and surprise that it included a letter that detailed a BIG secret which they never expected, that daddy dearest was the town’s infamous “boogie man” that was snatching bodies. Say what now!! 😲 The letters, ledger, and video tapes held instructions, dark secrets hidden within the family. Which sent them on a scavenger hunt to uncover it all.
The story unfolds from both sisters POV on how they felt and coped with this bombshell that has been dropped on them and possibly a new “norm” for them. I loved how we also got the father’s POV of how he became the “boogie man”. All while being a caring husband, father, and business owner in the community. Talk about the perfect cover of being a mortician of a funeral home while helping rid the community of the bad apples. Just make sure you’re right with the Lord if you find yourself on the table the Houston Family Funeral Home!! 🤭🙏🏽
After their father, Tyrone Houston, mortician and family funeral home owner passed. Sisters, Solana and Selene Houston, inherited the family’s funeral home business. Which leaves them unsure of what to do and how to navigate through it all. Then, random deliveries from their deceased father started to arrive….Yes, y’all packages from the grave!! 🫣
Imagine their shock and surprise that it included a letter that detailed a BIG secret which they never expected, that daddy dearest was the town’s infamous “boogie man” that was snatching bodies. Say what now!! 😲 The letters, ledger, and video tapes held instructions, dark secrets hidden within the family. Which sent them on a scavenger hunt to uncover it all.
The story unfolds from both sisters POV on how they felt and coped with this bombshell that has been dropped on them and possibly a new “norm” for them. I loved how we also got the father’s POV of how he became the “boogie man”. All while being a caring husband, father, and business owner in the community. Talk about the perfect cover of being a mortician of a funeral home while helping rid the community of the bad apples. Just make sure you’re right with the Lord if you find yourself on the table the Houston Family Funeral Home!! 🤭🙏🏽
May 5, 2026
They say all families have secrets …. Vengeance is a story of justice, family secrets and legacy. The Houston family was far from a typical family. On the outside looking in they looked like the perfect family running a perfect family business. Tyrone Houston is a loving father and husband, thrown into the family business despite his dreams of becoming a dentist. Under his fathers direction he finds determination in keeping the business alive, even after death.
Solana and Selene(love these names) are Tyrone’s daughters, who like him have been thrown into the family business. After their father’s passing they find themselves on a VHS scavenger hunt that unveils the past that will eventually shape their futures!
I came for Octavia Grant(iykyk), but this story pulled me in and now I have to explore the other two authors' catalogues! I loved the multiple POVs, especially Tyrone’s. I thought “how could someone get into this lifestyle”, but his POV shed light! If you like thriller and suspense, then you’ll love this story! Think The Boogieman, Dexter and the Cross series put together!
Solana and Selene(love these names) are Tyrone’s daughters, who like him have been thrown into the family business. After their father’s passing they find themselves on a VHS scavenger hunt that unveils the past that will eventually shape their futures!
I came for Octavia Grant(iykyk), but this story pulled me in and now I have to explore the other two authors' catalogues! I loved the multiple POVs, especially Tyrone’s. I thought “how could someone get into this lifestyle”, but his POV shed light! If you like thriller and suspense, then you’ll love this story! Think The Boogieman, Dexter and the Cross series put together!
April 16, 2026
“He sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. You thought your fuck shit would go unnoticed, and now your friends and family will be at your wake.”
If you are looking for a suspense fueled thriller to add to your TBR then this may be your next read.
-sisterhood
-repercussions of your actions
-Black generational wealth
-vivid violence & gore
-dark secrets
-funeral home
-the Boogeyman
-scavenger hunt to uncover dark truths
-dual timeline
-morally gray family values
-multiple POVs
-steady pacing
-189 pages
This was the true definition of “you reap what you sow”.
I couldn’t help but think about what I would’ve done if I were in Solana & Solene’s shoes after peeling back the layers about my dad. Just when you think you know the full character of someone, you can find out that you may not know them at all.
I had a fun time with this. Anna J & Octavia Grant never disappoint.
If you are looking for a suspense fueled thriller to add to your TBR then this may be your next read.
-sisterhood
-repercussions of your actions
-Black generational wealth
-vivid violence & gore
-dark secrets
-funeral home
-the Boogeyman
-scavenger hunt to uncover dark truths
-dual timeline
-morally gray family values
-multiple POVs
-steady pacing
-189 pages
This was the true definition of “you reap what you sow”.
I couldn’t help but think about what I would’ve done if I were in Solana & Solene’s shoes after peeling back the layers about my dad. Just when you think you know the full character of someone, you can find out that you may not know them at all.
I had a fun time with this. Anna J & Octavia Grant never disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
To the ones who wrote this book, y'all are a little crazy, but I think I am too because I loved this book so much, lol! From the first couple of chapters, I knew this book was likely going to be a pretty good book, but I didn't know what I was in for at all.
This was dark, creepy, and unsettling. I was intrigued the whole way through. You feel as though you're on this journey with the Houston sisters to uncover the truths of their family. Tyrone Houston's points of view were my favorite. His chapters were written so well and really made the story come alive. I honestly could have read another 50 pages or so of this story, but it wrapped up perfectly when I really think about it. This book will certainly stay with me forever.
If you love dark, disturbing thrillers that push the line, this is definitely the one to pick up.
To the ones who wrote this book, y'all are a little crazy, but I think I am too because I loved this book so much, lol! From the first couple of chapters, I knew this book was likely going to be a pretty good book, but I didn't know what I was in for at all.
This was dark, creepy, and unsettling. I was intrigued the whole way through. You feel as though you're on this journey with the Houston sisters to uncover the truths of their family. Tyrone Houston's points of view were my favorite. His chapters were written so well and really made the story come alive. I honestly could have read another 50 pages or so of this story, but it wrapped up perfectly when I really think about it. This book will certainly stay with me forever.
If you love dark, disturbing thrillers that push the line, this is definitely the one to pick up.
April 28, 2026
Strong Setup, Didn’t Quite Stick the Landing
I went into Vengeance as an Octavia Grant fan and got introduced to Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace at the same time.
The writing pulled me in right away. The setup is strong, and the idea of the scavenger hunt through Tyrone’s past had me locked in. Each clue peeling back another layer? Yeah, I was ready for that.
The build up is there. It keeps you reading, waiting for that moment where everything clicks into place. For me, that final stretch didn’t land the way I wanted it to. I was expecting something a little different, something that would really push it over the edge.
Still, the storytelling itself is solid. It holds your attention, and the concept alone makes it worth the read.
Overall, it’s a good story. Just didn’t fully hit where I thought it would
I went into Vengeance as an Octavia Grant fan and got introduced to Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace at the same time.
The writing pulled me in right away. The setup is strong, and the idea of the scavenger hunt through Tyrone’s past had me locked in. Each clue peeling back another layer? Yeah, I was ready for that.
The build up is there. It keeps you reading, waiting for that moment where everything clicks into place. For me, that final stretch didn’t land the way I wanted it to. I was expecting something a little different, something that would really push it over the edge.
Still, the storytelling itself is solid. It holds your attention, and the concept alone makes it worth the read.
Overall, it’s a good story. Just didn’t fully hit where I thought it would
May 5, 2026
I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was pulled in from chapter 1! Vengeance has a spot on my bookshelf! Getting Tyrone’s, Solana’s, and Selene’s perspectives helped the story flow well, especially with the mix of past and present. You go through a wide range of emotions when it comes to Tyrone, as you try to figure out with the sisters, “What was dad into?”. The story tugs at your heart in some places as you understand what led Tyrone to his path. Then there’s laughter as Solana and Selene are working through their grief of what they’ve both lost, more than just their dad. There was a surprise twist towards the end which added depth to the story. Although a novella, so much was laid out, making it a great quick read. On one hand I’d love to read more as the Houston’s move forward, on the other I was also satisfied. Great job ladies!!
I was pulled in from chapter 1! Vengeance has a spot on my bookshelf! Getting Tyrone’s, Solana’s, and Selene’s perspectives helped the story flow well, especially with the mix of past and present. You go through a wide range of emotions when it comes to Tyrone, as you try to figure out with the sisters, “What was dad into?”. The story tugs at your heart in some places as you understand what led Tyrone to his path. Then there’s laughter as Solana and Selene are working through their grief of what they’ve both lost, more than just their dad. There was a surprise twist towards the end which added depth to the story. Although a novella, so much was laid out, making it a great quick read. On one hand I’d love to read more as the Houston’s move forward, on the other I was also satisfied. Great job ladies!!
April 15, 2026
Have you ever watched other surgeons perform a surgery together? Well, these three writers have combined their talents and put together all kinds of crazy in one book. The setting of a funeral home is already creepy but add righteous vengeance to a calm person , you will have demented visions and spookiness. The Houston Funeral Home and Cremation Center are the inheritance of two beautiful sisters with secrets. You need to sit back and enjoy the mayhem of the inherited troubles. Also, it would don’t be a romance without some tantalizing smut. #annaj #octaviagrant #oliviareneewallace I look forward to seeing more of this. Thank you to #bookfunnel and Anna J for the advanced copy of #vengeance
April 21, 2026
“He sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. You thought you fuck shit would go unnoticed and now your friends and family will be at your wake”
Chile this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
What Erykah Badu say…”I think you better call Tyrone. Call him”Tyrone Tyrone Tyrone…That man right there was doing the Lords work. How could you not love him
Solana and Selene…My Sisters Keeper…When their father passed they decided to take over the family business “The Houston Family Funeral Home”. The last visual for families left in their hands. But if the walls could talk the secrets it would tell. When they see the ledger of bodies that have come through the morgue they are left speechless. When the walls move they question who their father really was. Then a FedEx box shows and it changes everything…Will they be able to keep the business going or will the secrets come out and ruin everything? But good ol Larry puts it all in perspective
Chile this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
What Erykah Badu say…”I think you better call Tyrone. Call him”Tyrone Tyrone Tyrone…That man right there was doing the Lords work. How could you not love him
Solana and Selene…My Sisters Keeper…When their father passed they decided to take over the family business “The Houston Family Funeral Home”. The last visual for families left in their hands. But if the walls could talk the secrets it would tell. When they see the ledger of bodies that have come through the morgue they are left speechless. When the walls move they question who their father really was. Then a FedEx box shows and it changes everything…Will they be able to keep the business going or will the secrets come out and ruin everything? But good ol Larry puts it all in perspective
Review of advance copy received from Author
I probably enjoyed this too much, but that is besides the point. Vengeance grabs you from the first paragraph and DOES NOT let you go. It took me 2 days to read, and it was only because life was lifing, but once I could sit down, I could not put it down!
What I enjoyed most was how the POV shifted. Seeing things from Tyrone's POV made it truly chilling but absolutely necessary. Solana and Selene having to navigate this while also mourning their father added a level of depth that was fantastic.
I have read a few of Octavia Grant's books, but I was unfamiliar with Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace. After this, they have a fan in me!
What I enjoyed most was how the POV shifted. Seeing things from Tyrone's POV made it truly chilling but absolutely necessary. Solana and Selene having to navigate this while also mourning their father added a level of depth that was fantastic.
I have read a few of Octavia Grant's books, but I was unfamiliar with Anna J and Olivia Renee Wallace. After this, they have a fan in me!
April 30, 2026
Welcome to the Houston Family Funeral Home and Crematorium, where you will be judged for your sins and justifiably punished. When Tyrone, the head of the family dies, his daughters learn more than they would like about the family business. Numerous secrets and the players behind them, will leave readers speechless.
This thriller is layered and had me on the edge of my seat page after bloody page. My favorite character was Tyrone, for reasons which you’ll have to read the book to find out, and my least favorite is the horrible mother. Let’s just say that I will NEVER look at a funeral home the same way again! Excellent job ladies…this was the collaboration that I didn’t know I needed.
This thriller is layered and had me on the edge of my seat page after bloody page. My favorite character was Tyrone, for reasons which you’ll have to read the book to find out, and my least favorite is the horrible mother. Let’s just say that I will NEVER look at a funeral home the same way again! Excellent job ladies…this was the collaboration that I didn’t know I needed.
June 29, 2026
I love a good vigilante, righting the wrongs of the world. Tyrone is a mortician and is using his profession to his advantage to exact revenge on those who need to pay for the choices they have made.
This short story (200ish pages) easily could have been a 5🌟 however I really disliked how the author portrayed the characters vocabulary. Tyrone and his daughters were all educated, intelligent people but their language did not match.
She also stated that Tyrone had originally wanted to be a dentist too many times.
I did enjoy the story, and want to warn it is DARK. If you are squeamish this one is not for you.
This short story (200ish pages) easily could have been a 5🌟 however I really disliked how the author portrayed the characters vocabulary. Tyrone and his daughters were all educated, intelligent people but their language did not match.
She also stated that Tyrone had originally wanted to be a dentist too many times.
I did enjoy the story, and want to warn it is DARK. If you are squeamish this one is not for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 - Thank you to the authors for this ARC.
Oh yes!! From the beginning i was hooked. That opening line was too funny. Loved the story telling, pacing and how the authors writing blended. I couldn’t tell who wrote what.
Tyrone Houston’s story was so good. I love the reason behind what the Houston family started and how they built wealth. With every chapter i was falling more in love with the characters, tension and mystery of what the sisters are going to do. Seeing the sister’s growth, emotions, fear, and acceptance was everything. I hope this turns into an audio.
Highly recommend.
Oh yes!! From the beginning i was hooked. That opening line was too funny. Loved the story telling, pacing and how the authors writing blended. I couldn’t tell who wrote what.
Tyrone Houston’s story was so good. I love the reason behind what the Houston family started and how they built wealth. With every chapter i was falling more in love with the characters, tension and mystery of what the sisters are going to do. Seeing the sister’s growth, emotions, fear, and acceptance was everything. I hope this turns into an audio.
Highly recommend.
April 26, 2026
This one was a good mix of suspense, twist, and drama. There’s a steady build of tension with family secrets and complicated family business at the center.
The story keeps you guessing, especially with a twist that I didn’t see coming.
I really enjoyed the sisters’ banter—it felt natural and added a nice balance to the story. I just wish we got more of Andre, wanted a little more from his character. But the little we did get of him was chef’s kiss.
Overall, a strong read that keep my attention and delivers on suspense and drama. I’d definitely recommend it.
The story keeps you guessing, especially with a twist that I didn’t see coming.
I really enjoyed the sisters’ banter—it felt natural and added a nice balance to the story. I just wish we got more of Andre, wanted a little more from his character. But the little we did get of him was chef’s kiss.
Overall, a strong read that keep my attention and delivers on suspense and drama. I’d definitely recommend it.
April 27, 2026
I'd be Solana 🤭
This book was a gripping one-sitting read packed with twists.
After their father’s death, Solana and Selene uncover shocking truths about their family’s funeral home—and the man they thought they knew. Let’s just say… the secrets he left behind were anything but ordinary.
The story blends psychological tension with crime in a way that keeps you hooked and side-eyeing every revelation.
If you found out your father had a hidden, dangerous double life… would you still see him the same? And would you carry on his legacy? 👀
This book was a gripping one-sitting read packed with twists.
After their father’s death, Solana and Selene uncover shocking truths about their family’s funeral home—and the man they thought they knew. Let’s just say… the secrets he left behind were anything but ordinary.
The story blends psychological tension with crime in a way that keeps you hooked and side-eyeing every revelation.
If you found out your father had a hidden, dangerous double life… would you still see him the same? And would you carry on his legacy? 👀
May 12, 2026
I’m hovering right between a 4 and a 5 on this one, so let’s call it a solid 4.5.
While the core plot of Vengeance felt a bit familiar—navigating themes and turns I’ve seen in the genre before—Anna J. manages to make it feel fresh through sheer storytelling quality. The pacing was spot on, and the emotional weight of the characters kept me hooked even when I thought I knew what was coming next.
Sometimes it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but about how well you drive the car. This was a gripping, well-crafted read that I’ll definitely be recommending.
While the core plot of Vengeance felt a bit familiar—navigating themes and turns I’ve seen in the genre before—Anna J. manages to make it feel fresh through sheer storytelling quality. The pacing was spot on, and the emotional weight of the characters kept me hooked even when I thought I knew what was coming next.
Sometimes it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but about how well you drive the car. This was a gripping, well-crafted read that I’ll definitely be recommending.
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