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Halloween Craving : A Death Valley Ridge Story
Welcome to Death Valley Ridge!Dahlia Crowe has a bakery to run, a Halloween festival to survive, and absolutely no time to develop an unhealthy fascination with her ridiculously attractive new upstairs neighbor.
Unfortunately, nobody told her heart that once she meets Vincent Poe.
Nobody told the crow either.
One keeps teasing her, flirting with her, and catching her staring when she should know better. The other keeps appearing outside her bakery with black feathers and shiny little presents like some kind of spooky secret admirer.
Dahlia is becoming dangerously fond of both.
With Halloween approaching and Death Valley Ridge disappearing beneath its familiar blanket of fog, Dahlia is starting to wonder if there might be more to her her mysterious new neighbor and the crow that seems determined to keep her.
After all, everyone knows crows remember the people they like.
Unfortunately, nobody told her heart that once she meets Vincent Poe.
Nobody told the crow either.
One keeps teasing her, flirting with her, and catching her staring when she should know better. The other keeps appearing outside her bakery with black feathers and shiny little presents like some kind of spooky secret admirer.
Dahlia is becoming dangerously fond of both.
With Halloween approaching and Death Valley Ridge disappearing beneath its familiar blanket of fog, Dahlia is starting to wonder if there might be more to her her mysterious new neighbor and the crow that seems determined to keep her.
After all, everyone knows crows remember the people they like.
143 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Halloween Craving by C.M. Leigh
Halloween Craving was the adorable, funny story this anthology needed. After some of the darker trips through Death Valley Ridge, Dahlia and her little bakery felt like the perfect change of pace.
Dahlia is an absolute sweetheart, and I loved her pretty much immediately. Then Vincent comes along with his sweet, sneaky self, living above the bakery and bringing all that cute banter with him. Their whole dynamic was just fun and ridiculously easy to love.
And those crow feathers? 👀 I KNEW there had to be something going on with them. I kept wondering if they were connected to Vincent somehow, and when everything started coming together, I was sitting there like I KNEW IT.
This was such a cute paranormal meet-cute with just enough Death Valley Ridge weirdness mixed in. Baked goods, flirting, mysterious feathers, a suspiciously involved crow, and a man with a few secrets? Apparently that's all I need. 💜
Halloween Craving by C.M. Leigh
Halloween Craving was the adorable, funny story this anthology needed. After some of the darker trips through Death Valley Ridge, Dahlia and her little bakery felt like the perfect change of pace.
Dahlia is an absolute sweetheart, and I loved her pretty much immediately. Then Vincent comes along with his sweet, sneaky self, living above the bakery and bringing all that cute banter with him. Their whole dynamic was just fun and ridiculously easy to love.
And those crow feathers? 👀 I KNEW there had to be something going on with them. I kept wondering if they were connected to Vincent somehow, and when everything started coming together, I was sitting there like I KNEW IT.
This was such a cute paranormal meet-cute with just enough Death Valley Ridge weirdness mixed in. Baked goods, flirting, mysterious feathers, a suspiciously involved crow, and a man with a few secrets? Apparently that's all I need. 💜
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Halloween Craving, and I absolutely LOVED this book!
A charming little Halloween town, a sassy baker, and a murder of crows that seem a little too intelligent for their own good? I was immediately invested!
What really made this book stand out was the banter. There is ZERO spice, and honestly, I never missed it. The witty dialogue, entertaining characters, and their interactions kept me hooked from beginning to end.
I loved the spooky atmosphere, the humor, and the little bit of mystery woven throughout. It was the perfect combination of Halloween charm and lighthearted fun.
Sometimes you pick up a book expecting a cute seasonal read and end up loving it even more than you anticipated. This was definitely one of those books!
A charming little Halloween town, a sassy baker, and a murder of crows that seem a little too intelligent for their own good? I was immediately invested!
What really made this book stand out was the banter. There is ZERO spice, and honestly, I never missed it. The witty dialogue, entertaining characters, and their interactions kept me hooked from beginning to end.
I loved the spooky atmosphere, the humor, and the little bit of mystery woven throughout. It was the perfect combination of Halloween charm and lighthearted fun.
Sometimes you pick up a book expecting a cute seasonal read and end up loving it even more than you anticipated. This was definitely one of those books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an adorable story. It was just what the Anthology needed. Dahlia runs a bakery and has the same routine. The crows were just too cute. I enjoyed the story and the darkness that was brought up about Death Valley Ridge.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Dahlia and her neighbor Vincent. It was cute that she had the bakery and the crier would come to visit and was getting a lot of treats. This was a sweet and fun little Halloween tidbit. I really enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So far, I think this is my favorite of the series!
I love Dahlia and Vincent and I hope to see a second book!
I love Dahlia and Vincent and I hope to see a second book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all I want to send a really, but really big thank you to the author for allowing me to read and review this because I absolutely loved it!
It was short, fun, slightly creepy, and just enough to make me completely curious about Dahlia and everything happening around her. I loved the whole dynamic with Vincent, the baked goods, the feathers, the little gifts, and that feeling that there was always something more going on beneath the cute Halloween atmosphere.
But with that ending you did me dirty! You cannot casually have Dahlia heading toward the graveyard and then just leave me there. Now I need to know who she was meeting and why I have this feeling that there might be more to Dahlia than we currently know because there were enough little crumbs throughout the story to make me suspicious, and now my curiosity has completely taken over and hopefully I don't have to wait much to learn more about them.
I would genuinely love a full book about these characters because this felt like the perfect little Halloween treat, but instead of satisfying the craving, it only made me want more. I have questions, I have theories, and most importantly, I need to know what was waiting for Dahlia in that graveyard!
It was short, fun, slightly creepy, and just enough to make me completely curious about Dahlia and everything happening around her. I loved the whole dynamic with Vincent, the baked goods, the feathers, the little gifts, and that feeling that there was always something more going on beneath the cute Halloween atmosphere.
But with that ending you did me dirty! You cannot casually have Dahlia heading toward the graveyard and then just leave me there. Now I need to know who she was meeting and why I have this feeling that there might be more to Dahlia than we currently know because there were enough little crumbs throughout the story to make me suspicious, and now my curiosity has completely taken over and hopefully I don't have to wait much to learn more about them.
I would genuinely love a full book about these characters because this felt like the perfect little Halloween treat, but instead of satisfying the craving, it only made me want more. I have questions, I have theories, and most importantly, I need to know what was waiting for Dahlia in that graveyard!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2026
Dahlia loves running the town bakery, and has her routine down to a science, including time to count the crows. The only thing that’s managed to distract her, is the appearance of her handsome upstairs neighbour, and soon she finds herself changing her routine to keep an eye on his comings and goings, making sure to offer him treats to welcome him to town.
But while Vincent teases her and keeps catching her staring, she also starts to receive shiny gifts from one of the crows, and soon she finds herself watching for both of them equally, but as curiosity turns into interest, she may be getting more than she bargained for.
I received an early copy of this book through the Death Valley Ridge shared universe and really enjoyed it. I loved the flirty banter between Dahlia and Vincent, watching them overcome their own awkwardness hinting at the potential of more. From the beginning it’s clear someone, or something is watching her though, and the crow doesn’t seem to keen on giving her up. The little twist at the end made things even more interesting, and I would honestly love to see what happens next.
But while Vincent teases her and keeps catching her staring, she also starts to receive shiny gifts from one of the crows, and soon she finds herself watching for both of them equally, but as curiosity turns into interest, she may be getting more than she bargained for.
I received an early copy of this book through the Death Valley Ridge shared universe and really enjoyed it. I loved the flirty banter between Dahlia and Vincent, watching them overcome their own awkwardness hinting at the potential of more. From the beginning it’s clear someone, or something is watching her though, and the crow doesn’t seem to keen on giving her up. The little twist at the end made things even more interesting, and I would honestly love to see what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is absolutely adorable !! Each bit that CM has brought into the book, added a new layer into which a short Halloween novella. There was playful banter, mystery, slow-burn and plots that you thought you knew but couldn’t wait to see how they would turn out.
Dahlia is the sweetest character as a baker owner who pours her heart into what she does while also feeling all of the aspects of Death Ridge at the same time! There are other characters that I don’t want to spoil so I won’t mention specifically, but each aspect was written in perfectly to fit the story and the connection with Dahlia ! I loved this sweet Halloween novella !
Dahlia is the sweetest character as a baker owner who pours her heart into what she does while also feeling all of the aspects of Death Ridge at the same time! There are other characters that I don’t want to spoil so I won’t mention specifically, but each aspect was written in perfectly to fit the story and the connection with Dahlia ! I loved this sweet Halloween novella !
September 12, 2026
Okay, Halloween Craving was ADORABLE… in the wonderfully weird Death Valley Ridge kind of way. 😂🐦⬛
Dahlia and Vincent had me from the start, but honestly, the mysterious crow appearing with his increasingly ridiculous little gifts was one of my favourite things. Add in the bakery, paranormal romance, plenty of chemistry and that perfect spooky-season feel, and I ate this one up.
I loved how different this felt from the other books I’ve read in the collaboration while still fitting perfectly into our strange little town. 🫶
Another five stars from me!
Thank you to C.M. Leigh for the ARC! 🎃
Dahlia and Vincent had me from the start, but honestly, the mysterious crow appearing with his increasingly ridiculous little gifts was one of my favourite things. Add in the bakery, paranormal romance, plenty of chemistry and that perfect spooky-season feel, and I ate this one up.
I loved how different this felt from the other books I’ve read in the collaboration while still fitting perfectly into our strange little town. 🫶
Another five stars from me!
Thank you to C.M. Leigh for the ARC! 🎃
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to be able to get an advanced reader copy of this book!
The tension and chemistry between the two main characters is such a fun and playful story line to follow. It feels very natural and doesn’t drag out the inevitable which is greatly appreciated.
Also, the treat descriptions alone will make you crave a treat mid-chapter.
The twist is unexpected, but also makes you realize that all the little breadcrumbs throughout the story now make perfect sense.
Leaving on a cliff hanger?? Rude but also very well executed. Absolutely will be reading all of the Death Valley Ridge books.
My TBR list just got a little longer lol
The tension and chemistry between the two main characters is such a fun and playful story line to follow. It feels very natural and doesn’t drag out the inevitable which is greatly appreciated.
Also, the treat descriptions alone will make you crave a treat mid-chapter.
The twist is unexpected, but also makes you realize that all the little breadcrumbs throughout the story now make perfect sense.
Leaving on a cliff hanger?? Rude but also very well executed. Absolutely will be reading all of the Death Valley Ridge books.
My TBR list just got a little longer lol
Review of advance copy received from Author
Devoured this novella- just like I want to do to every treat described in the bakery in the book! They all sound so delicious!!!!
Honestly though, this was a sweet novella about a bakery owner who becomes slightly obsessed with the man who moves in to the apartment above her bakery. I love the awkward banter between them straight up until the end.
And with that ending - I would love to see where they go next - what is Dahlias reaction going to be when she finds out Vincent’s secret?!
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy & am writing this review voluntarily
Honestly though, this was a sweet novella about a bakery owner who becomes slightly obsessed with the man who moves in to the apartment above her bakery. I love the awkward banter between them straight up until the end.
And with that ending - I would love to see where they go next - what is Dahlias reaction going to be when she finds out Vincent’s secret?!
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy & am writing this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
A very unique Halloween Story about a Bakery owner Dahila. She always baking , cleaning, then home. Then she noticed crows and one in particular near by. The crow would leave a feather for her. She would talk to the crow and laugh cause she talking to a bird.
Then one day a man catches her attention. She became a little stalker and an obsession I feel. But the man ate it up.
The book was a page turner than The End came and I wanted to message the author and tell her she better writing book 2 ASAP lol
Then one day a man catches her attention. She became a little stalker and an obsession I feel. But the man ate it up.
The book was a page turner than The End came and I wanted to message the author and tell her she better writing book 2 ASAP lol
October 14, 2026
Oh this one was cute story, but my question the whole time is whose shadow? I seriously have no idea what that is and I need to know! Because what!?!?! And I had a feeling I would know what the ending was, but man I wish there was more! Because I loved Dahlia, she sounds so sweet and nice! And some of the recipes, um I wanna try! In this book she a baker who loves making dessert and they sound so good!!Il I literally need to read the other books because I'm really liking this series! If you haven't read it, I would say read them!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so grateful to be given an advanced reader copy of this book. It was so good and obsessive to read. At first I thought Vincent and the crow were 2 separate people but near the end I finally pieced it together.
The plot was so cute, sweet and unique. It's not everyday you meet a crow shifter. I was low-key jealous of Vincent for getting all of her delicious sweet treats. Like damn I'd kill for that chocolate cake and them cookies.
I also loved the banter and flirtyness with Vincent it had me blushing and like "YOU GO GIRL" He's one fine ass snack I'd definitely devour up and it was so cute him leaving her gifts and getting offended she threw his first feather away.
The plot was so cute, sweet and unique. It's not everyday you meet a crow shifter. I was low-key jealous of Vincent for getting all of her delicious sweet treats. Like damn I'd kill for that chocolate cake and them cookies.
I also loved the banter and flirtyness with Vincent it had me blushing and like "YOU GO GIRL" He's one fine ass snack I'd definitely devour up and it was so cute him leaving her gifts and getting offended she threw his first feather away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness!! If you love a little bit of mystery with a little bit of wholesome fun you will love this short story!! The setting, characters and story are well written and developed as well as easy to read. I giggled and wondered and theorized right up to the end.
The first page caught my attention and the story held it all the way through.
It’s fun, light and perfect for an October read!!
I can’t wait to share it with my book loving daughters!!
The first page caught my attention and the story held it all the way through.
It’s fun, light and perfect for an October read!!
I can’t wait to share it with my book loving daughters!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love that this was my kickoff into my death valley ridge journey❤️
This met-cute paranormal romance was everthing I needed and more!
The gifts the crow gave were so adorable, and the banter, flirting energy between the characters was delicious.
I am so excited to see what comes next for Dahlia and Vincent!
This met-cute paranormal romance was everthing I needed and more!
The gifts the crow gave were so adorable, and the banter, flirting energy between the characters was delicious.
I am so excited to see what comes next for Dahlia and Vincent!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I actually adored this book.
The depth it goes into whilst only being a small novella is amazing. I loved Vincent and Dahlia. And the twist at the end had me shook - I genuinely didn’t make the connection with the shadow! It was a really beautiful read.
4 ⭐️
Thanks for the ARC read, I loved giving my personal review on it.
The depth it goes into whilst only being a small novella is amazing. I loved Vincent and Dahlia. And the twist at the end had me shook - I genuinely didn’t make the connection with the shadow! It was a really beautiful read.
4 ⭐️
Thanks for the ARC read, I loved giving my personal review on it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this one. Dahlia and Vincent made a brilliant pair.
I loved Dahlia’s little chat with the crow and I was surprised his wee chunky ass could fly after all his treats.
The fact that for a short book you could feel the sparks from the 2 of them I would love to read these 2 as a full novel.
Crows and spooky season go hand in hand just like black cats and witches.
I loved Dahlia’s little chat with the crow and I was surprised his wee chunky ass could fly after all his treats.
The fact that for a short book you could feel the sparks from the 2 of them I would love to read these 2 as a full novel.
Crows and spooky season go hand in hand just like black cats and witches.
October 14, 2026
This was a quick read and one I’m so glad I picked it up. It was adorable. And so intriguing. Dahlia and Vincent were amazing. I was laughing and swooning and everything in between. These two were hilarious together. The banter was unmatched. It had me rolling. Everything about this was easy to read and love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was genuinely a pleasure to read. I loved the slow burn romance, the sarcastic humour from Dahlia (my kinda girl), and the little gothic references sprinkled into the story.
Leigh's writing style was absolutely beautiful too. I look forward to reading more from her.
Leigh's writing style was absolutely beautiful too. I look forward to reading more from her.
September 20, 2026
This was sweet! See what I did there? Lol . A fun little read about a spook lil town and a baker and her bakery. I kept seeing crows today and not one left me a feather! Bastards! Perfect read to set your cozy spooky season vibe!
October 4, 2026
Halloween Craving is the cutest, coziest cafe story I have read. I absolutely adored this book. Crow shifters?!?! This is a first for me. I also loved the fact that characters from other stories in this world were brought up!
Read
October 5, 2026I absolutely loved this and want more of the couple! Such a cute story with an unexpected twist at the end that I had a feeling it was what I thought. Absolutely brought out the Halloween vibe and really makes me want a pumpkin cinnamon roll!
October 13, 2026
A charmingly spooky, humorous read with a darker romantic twist. I would recommend it to readers looking for a Halloween-themed romance with quirky humor, mysterious characters, and plenty of seasonal atmosphere.
October 13, 2026
Aaawwwwww y'all this story was sooo stinking cute!!!! I absolutely loved Dahlia, Vincent and Shadow. Also y'all don't go into this story hungry because lord have mercy Dahlia will have you starving and drooling all over yourself by the end of the story hehehe
October 14, 2026
This was cute with an element of the paranormal thrown in. As soon as I knew his name I knew it was a nod to someone famous and well known. Didn’t really get the whole bad stalker vibe though I still enjoyed it.
October 17, 2026
So cute
This was a spooky, small town read, And dare I say possible, nope it will ruin the story. Though this was a short read, I would love to see it in full length. Really good story line and leaves it open for more
This was a spooky, small town read, And dare I say possible, nope it will ruin the story. Though this was a short read, I would love to see it in full length. Really good story line and leaves it open for more
October 18, 2026
This was so good. I loved her natural pull to him, their immediate chemistry with each other. I loved that he waited for her to come to him before he really did anything. Just so good. I only wish it was longer.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The characters Dahlia and Vincent are so adorable and the fact that she bakes for him!! Love it! I loved all the things he leaves her and she has no idea!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I like the slow burn romance between Dahlia and Vincent. Throw in the sassiness, sarcastic humor and you have a great cute novella story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews