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Squid Ward
At hell’s heart a desperate choice is made to have a baby.
Motherhood has always been out of reach and after years of loss and grief, Dory Angler believed she would never hold her own child in her arms.
When a charming doctor comes into her life with a promise of finally becoming a mother, hope inspires Dory to go to all lengths, including undergoing a revolutionary procedure for one last shot at pregnancy.
Post surgery, Dory is changed forever. Will she give birth or is this the worst mistake of her life?
“A glorious, unexpected, twisted and thrilling read! Get your jigs ready! We are going squidding!” – B.J. Twigg, Indieverse Award Winning Author of Can’t Refuse Him
“Squid Ward is a dark and twisted sci-fi horror with unexpected stakes and raw emotional turmoil. I was captivated by every page of Dory’s desperate journey to motherhood.” – Brendan Arnold, Award Winning Author of Rise of the Phoenix
Motherhood has always been out of reach and after years of loss and grief, Dory Angler believed she would never hold her own child in her arms.
When a charming doctor comes into her life with a promise of finally becoming a mother, hope inspires Dory to go to all lengths, including undergoing a revolutionary procedure for one last shot at pregnancy.
Post surgery, Dory is changed forever. Will she give birth or is this the worst mistake of her life?
“A glorious, unexpected, twisted and thrilling read! Get your jigs ready! We are going squidding!” – B.J. Twigg, Indieverse Award Winning Author of Can’t Refuse Him
“Squid Ward is a dark and twisted sci-fi horror with unexpected stakes and raw emotional turmoil. I was captivated by every page of Dory’s desperate journey to motherhood.” – Brendan Arnold, Award Winning Author of Rise of the Phoenix
149 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 17, 2026
This was a WTF did I just read & why did I like it so much moment!? 🤯🤣
I can safely say I’ve never read anything like this before. I’m new to the horror genre & Chloe has done a fabulous job of sucking me in.
I wanted to keep reading & the end had me absolutely shook.
I also really loved the awareness it brings around infertility & the struggles that people experience + the lengths that people will go to in order to get something they desire more than anything.
Overall a really awesome short read & I would recommend it if you’re open to some craziness and quality puns!
I can safely say I’ve never read anything like this before. I’m new to the horror genre & Chloe has done a fabulous job of sucking me in.
I wanted to keep reading & the end had me absolutely shook.
I also really loved the awareness it brings around infertility & the struggles that people experience + the lengths that people will go to in order to get something they desire more than anything.
Overall a really awesome short read & I would recommend it if you’re open to some craziness and quality puns!
April 15, 2026
If chaos had a pulse and body horror learned how to flirt, you’d get Squid Ward by Chloe Jayne.
I’ve had the absolute privilege of watching this story grow from its baby stages into the fully-formed, tentacled fever dream it is now, and let me tell you… this book did not come to play. It came to consume.
What starts as something raw and painfully real, especially in its exploration of fertility struggles and the emotional weight carried by women navigating that space, quickly spirals into something unhinged in the best possible way. The kind of unhinged where you’re equal parts invested, horrified, and whispering “girl… no…” while still turning the page like your life depends on it.
And Chloe’s writing? It grabs you by the throat from page one. You’re not just reading, you’re either in the character’s skin or perched like Jiminy Cricket, wide-eyed and eavesdropping on something you probably shouldn’t be witnessing. It’s intimate, invasive, and wildly immersive. You don’t get a choice. You’re in it.
And then the sci-fi kicks in.
Not gently. Not politely. It crashes through the door, dripping and strange and absolutely relentless.
This book doesn’t just hit. It keeps hitting. It’s deliciously grotesque. It’s wet, it’s sloppy, it’s what did I just read energy wrapped in sharp humour that sneaks up on you between moments of pure “ewww, EWWW, WHY??” face-scrunching horror.
You will cringe. You will laugh. You will question your life choices.
And the worst part?
You won’t be able to look away.
By the time you close the book, you’re sitting there in stunned silence, emotionally wrung out, possibly spiralling a little, and then it hits you:
“Oh my god… that was actually incredible.”
This isn’t a story you casually read. It’s a story you experience… like being dragged into the deep ocean and realizing too late you kind of love it there.
Proceed with caution. Or don’t.
Just know once you start, you’re not escaping the tentacles. 🦑🦑
I’ve had the absolute privilege of watching this story grow from its baby stages into the fully-formed, tentacled fever dream it is now, and let me tell you… this book did not come to play. It came to consume.
What starts as something raw and painfully real, especially in its exploration of fertility struggles and the emotional weight carried by women navigating that space, quickly spirals into something unhinged in the best possible way. The kind of unhinged where you’re equal parts invested, horrified, and whispering “girl… no…” while still turning the page like your life depends on it.
And Chloe’s writing? It grabs you by the throat from page one. You’re not just reading, you’re either in the character’s skin or perched like Jiminy Cricket, wide-eyed and eavesdropping on something you probably shouldn’t be witnessing. It’s intimate, invasive, and wildly immersive. You don’t get a choice. You’re in it.
And then the sci-fi kicks in.
Not gently. Not politely. It crashes through the door, dripping and strange and absolutely relentless.
This book doesn’t just hit. It keeps hitting. It’s deliciously grotesque. It’s wet, it’s sloppy, it’s what did I just read energy wrapped in sharp humour that sneaks up on you between moments of pure “ewww, EWWW, WHY??” face-scrunching horror.
You will cringe. You will laugh. You will question your life choices.
And the worst part?
You won’t be able to look away.
By the time you close the book, you’re sitting there in stunned silence, emotionally wrung out, possibly spiralling a little, and then it hits you:
“Oh my god… that was actually incredible.”
This isn’t a story you casually read. It’s a story you experience… like being dragged into the deep ocean and realizing too late you kind of love it there.
Proceed with caution. Or don’t.
Just know once you start, you’re not escaping the tentacles. 🦑🦑
May 28, 2026
What a wild ride. I immensely enjoyed every gross and crude description, all of which were saturated with sarcasm and witty humor. Chloe Jayne’s writing is highly amusing and full of metaphors and other figurative language that I couldn’t get enough of. The lightness of the humor contrasts well with the darkness of the content, making an interesting read. I essentially finished this is a day or so (kept wanting more!).
I purposefully avoided reviews and only read very broad plot points so I went into this just knowing there was something about a squid/octopus and a horror/sci-fi twist. And what a eye-widening and mouth-gaping read! The main FMC is great, totally someone I would be friends with. Her agony and heartache over struggling to have children is relatable and soul wrenching. You feel for her. Her desperation puts her over the edge though, but more like way wayyy wayyyy over the edge. I won’t reveal anymore, but let’s just say there are trigger warnings for a reason. The plot builds tension all in the right ways, and everything comes to a head in the end, somewhat similar to how Stephen King novels are structured (This is a good thing; I love Stephen King!).
This book keeps circulating in my brain, and I keep replaying all of my silly reactions to it. Smiling and giggling and then throwing my head back in utter disgust and surprise while saying loudly out loud “What?!!” Lots of squinting at my kindle and dramatically tilting my head. Lots of exclamations of “Ohhh wow that’s happening now!” Like I said, it was a crazy, fun, and shocking read. And, I have a tendency to laugh at the awful and horrible. So there you go.
When the story ended, I wanted more. To put it bluntly, I would love for it be longer. That’s really my only personal critique. I liked it so much that I could have kept reading. I’ll definitely be on the eye out for works from Chloe Jayne! Thank you so much for the ARC; I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.
I purposefully avoided reviews and only read very broad plot points so I went into this just knowing there was something about a squid/octopus and a horror/sci-fi twist. And what a eye-widening and mouth-gaping read! The main FMC is great, totally someone I would be friends with. Her agony and heartache over struggling to have children is relatable and soul wrenching. You feel for her. Her desperation puts her over the edge though, but more like way wayyy wayyyy over the edge. I won’t reveal anymore, but let’s just say there are trigger warnings for a reason. The plot builds tension all in the right ways, and everything comes to a head in the end, somewhat similar to how Stephen King novels are structured (This is a good thing; I love Stephen King!).
This book keeps circulating in my brain, and I keep replaying all of my silly reactions to it. Smiling and giggling and then throwing my head back in utter disgust and surprise while saying loudly out loud “What?!!” Lots of squinting at my kindle and dramatically tilting my head. Lots of exclamations of “Ohhh wow that’s happening now!” Like I said, it was a crazy, fun, and shocking read. And, I have a tendency to laugh at the awful and horrible. So there you go.
When the story ended, I wanted more. To put it bluntly, I would love for it be longer. That’s really my only personal critique. I liked it so much that I could have kept reading. I’ll definitely be on the eye out for works from Chloe Jayne! Thank you so much for the ARC; I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.
August 1, 2026
I read this in one sitting. I could not stop. I was frustrated and sad for Dory from the start. I wanted to smash people's faces in on her behalf. I slowly became more and more horrified as the story went on. I found the story unsettling and gripping and I couldn't look away. The writing really made me empathise with Dory and I was never quite sure if she was actually crazy or if what was going on was real.
Not my usual read but enjoyed it.
Not my usual read but enjoyed it.
April 22, 2026
ARC Review ~
Squid Ward will sink its hooks into your brain and refuse to let go until you’re left emotionally shipwrecked, staring into the abyss and wondering what in the absurdist deep-sea horror trench you just experienced.
Horror isn’t usually my natural habitat (I’m normally paddling in calmer reading waters), but when the opportunity came along, I couldn’t resist diving in.
At its core, this is a raw, echoing scream into the void about infertility, miscarriage, grief, and the crushing undertow of losing hope. It explores the kind of loss that drags you under and leaves you gasping for air.
For a debut novel, Chloe has made an absolutely tidal splash. The writing feels authentic, immersive, and emotionally sharp enough to leave you feeling like you’ve surfaced too quickly from deep water — breathless and a little disoriented (in the best way) 🫧📖
And I loved the ongoing thread of ocean-themed humour woven through the story. The puns were shore-ly top-tier and added just enough levity to keep things from getting completely abyss-level heavy.
Squid Ward will sink its hooks into your brain and refuse to let go until you’re left emotionally shipwrecked, staring into the abyss and wondering what in the absurdist deep-sea horror trench you just experienced.
Horror isn’t usually my natural habitat (I’m normally paddling in calmer reading waters), but when the opportunity came along, I couldn’t resist diving in.
At its core, this is a raw, echoing scream into the void about infertility, miscarriage, grief, and the crushing undertow of losing hope. It explores the kind of loss that drags you under and leaves you gasping for air.
For a debut novel, Chloe has made an absolutely tidal splash. The writing feels authentic, immersive, and emotionally sharp enough to leave you feeling like you’ve surfaced too quickly from deep water — breathless and a little disoriented (in the best way) 🫧📖
And I loved the ongoing thread of ocean-themed humour woven through the story. The puns were shore-ly top-tier and added just enough levity to keep things from getting completely abyss-level heavy.
April 21, 2026
Super thankful to Chloe and being selected to be on her street team for this ARC copy 🥰
Squid ward is a beautifully heartbreaking horror filled story of Dory who is so desperately trying to become a mother. A woman who will take extreme measures to get a baby and do whatever she needs to complete her biggest goal. I loved the culture ties, struggles and story telling that Squid ward gave.
Check your triggers as does mention loss of children but sharing this story is so powerful and needed in a community where many women suffer this same fate.
Congrats Chloe on your first book published 🥰 I hope this is a beautiful start to your writing career ♥️
Squid ward is a beautifully heartbreaking horror filled story of Dory who is so desperately trying to become a mother. A woman who will take extreme measures to get a baby and do whatever she needs to complete her biggest goal. I loved the culture ties, struggles and story telling that Squid ward gave.
Check your triggers as does mention loss of children but sharing this story is so powerful and needed in a community where many women suffer this same fate.
Congrats Chloe on your first book published 🥰 I hope this is a beautiful start to your writing career ♥️
June 4, 2026
This story, at its heart, is a story of heartbreak, desperation, and trauma. It’s also a story about getting more than we bargained for, and the horrors of individuals with nefarious purposes.
From the first pages, you feel the emotional weight of Dory’s pain as she wrestles with infertility. Her partner, Taylor, is as supportive as he can be. But he will never truly know how Dory feels, and how the guilt of each failed pregnancy weighs her down. She is also becoming increasingly more determined to have a child, and she doesn’t care how she does it. That mindset will be her undoing.
As the story moves from hopelessness to hopeful, it seems like things might finally pan out, even as we, the readers, know that this will end badly. And in the blink of an eye, the true horror begins. Chloe goes full body horror on us, and paints a gruesome picture of the rapid changes happening to Dory. It starts giving off Aliens vibes-black goo, body takeover…you get the idea. And by the time you get to the end, you only asking one question-what is she really pregnant with?
This debut came in with a bang. It’s well written, has characters you emotionally connect with, and makes you squirm. I also love all the names that are sea puns. If you enjoy body, and aquatic, horror, this one’s for you. 4.25 stars
Thank you Chloe for my copy of your arc. My opinion is my own.
From the first pages, you feel the emotional weight of Dory’s pain as she wrestles with infertility. Her partner, Taylor, is as supportive as he can be. But he will never truly know how Dory feels, and how the guilt of each failed pregnancy weighs her down. She is also becoming increasingly more determined to have a child, and she doesn’t care how she does it. That mindset will be her undoing.
As the story moves from hopelessness to hopeful, it seems like things might finally pan out, even as we, the readers, know that this will end badly. And in the blink of an eye, the true horror begins. Chloe goes full body horror on us, and paints a gruesome picture of the rapid changes happening to Dory. It starts giving off Aliens vibes-black goo, body takeover…you get the idea. And by the time you get to the end, you only asking one question-what is she really pregnant with?
This debut came in with a bang. It’s well written, has characters you emotionally connect with, and makes you squirm. I also love all the names that are sea puns. If you enjoy body, and aquatic, horror, this one’s for you. 4.25 stars
Thank you Chloe for my copy of your arc. My opinion is my own.
April 29, 2026
This debut book is about how far one would go to get what they truly want.
Punchy with dark humour, I was hooked line and sinker (to stick with the ocean water references lol 😂) yet it’s also incredibly touching and real. I could feel Chloe’s heart and soul placed into her words on the pages.
As someone who’s gone through the fertility issues, I’ve been asked the same awkward questions again and again so I couldn’t help but relate to Dory. It made me root for her, I wanted her to get her baby, to get her happily ever after, but in this book it wasn’t as straight forward as that.
Being that it’s a sci-fi horror novel you know it’s not smooth sailing, it’s graphic, it’s obscure and it’s horrifying (but in a fun way lol)
An epic argument over dinner table, quoting of an Eminem and Queen songs, LOTR jokes, dogs trying to eat steak off your plate and of cause the enjoyable fishy puns throughout, this is just as a sampler of the joy this book brought me.
I couldn’t help but feel all the emotions reading this one- I was smiling one minute and then gasping in horror at the next chapter.. What a journey! (That epilogue… oh. my. god!)
*** Please as a warning, check out the tropes before diving into this one.. big trigger warnings! ***
But if you can get past them you are in for a fin-tastic debut no trout about it!! 😅🐠🐙
I couldn’t recommend this gem anymore!!! Xoxo
Thanks so much Chloe for selecting me to receive an ARC copy, you really knocked it out the park with this one, still thinking about this one long after it’s done. Go preorder now!!! Xoxo
Punchy with dark humour, I was hooked line and sinker (to stick with the ocean water references lol 😂) yet it’s also incredibly touching and real. I could feel Chloe’s heart and soul placed into her words on the pages.
As someone who’s gone through the fertility issues, I’ve been asked the same awkward questions again and again so I couldn’t help but relate to Dory. It made me root for her, I wanted her to get her baby, to get her happily ever after, but in this book it wasn’t as straight forward as that.
Being that it’s a sci-fi horror novel you know it’s not smooth sailing, it’s graphic, it’s obscure and it’s horrifying (but in a fun way lol)
An epic argument over dinner table, quoting of an Eminem and Queen songs, LOTR jokes, dogs trying to eat steak off your plate and of cause the enjoyable fishy puns throughout, this is just as a sampler of the joy this book brought me.
I couldn’t help but feel all the emotions reading this one- I was smiling one minute and then gasping in horror at the next chapter.. What a journey! (That epilogue… oh. my. god!)
*** Please as a warning, check out the tropes before diving into this one.. big trigger warnings! ***
But if you can get past them you are in for a fin-tastic debut no trout about it!! 😅🐠🐙
I couldn’t recommend this gem anymore!!! Xoxo
Thanks so much Chloe for selecting me to receive an ARC copy, you really knocked it out the park with this one, still thinking about this one long after it’s done. Go preorder now!!! Xoxo
Review of advance copy
Squid Ward by Chloe Jayne is a gripping debut sci-fi horror novella that dives into the emotional depths of infertility, grief, and the fierce longing for motherhood. The story follows Dory Angler, a woman exhausted by failed attempts to conceive and seizes a final chance through an experimental procedure offered by the charming Dr. Barry Cuda. What starts as a grounded, heartbreaking look at medical struggles and strained relationships quickly descends into surreal body horror and grotesque transformations filled with sea-creature imagery and dark humor.
What makes this book especially powerful is how Chloe Jayne draws directly from her own experiences with infertility and the challenges of navigating medical systems. You can feel that personal investment in the raw authenticity of the early chapters such as the dismissal at appointments, the compounding grief following a miscarriage, and the quiet desperation that builds when hope feels like the only thing left.
Chloe has openly shared that writing the novella was part of processing her grief, and this comes through in scenes that carry a visceral honesty rarely seen in horror. It turns the speculative elements into something more than shock value; they amplify the real psychological and physical toll of feeling betrayed by your own body and by systems that are meant to help.
Readers are duly warned about the graphic nature of the book. It does not hold back on explicit depictions of miscarriage, medical procedures, intense body horror, gore, violence, and transformation. These unflinching moments serve the story’s themes around desperation, bodily autonomy, and societal pressures surrounding motherhood and can be confronting. If topics of infertility, pregnancy or infant loss, depression, or extreme horror are sensitive for you, approach with care and heed the content warnings.
Having said that, I admire that Chloe refuses to offer the reader easy comfort, offering instead a bold unfiltered exploration of how far longing can push someone and the monstrous places it might lead. For those ready for the intensity, it’s a memorable and thought provoking dive. To end on a lighter note, I loved how the story was peppered with humor and the fishy names of the characters. Well done Chloe!
What makes this book especially powerful is how Chloe Jayne draws directly from her own experiences with infertility and the challenges of navigating medical systems. You can feel that personal investment in the raw authenticity of the early chapters such as the dismissal at appointments, the compounding grief following a miscarriage, and the quiet desperation that builds when hope feels like the only thing left.
Chloe has openly shared that writing the novella was part of processing her grief, and this comes through in scenes that carry a visceral honesty rarely seen in horror. It turns the speculative elements into something more than shock value; they amplify the real psychological and physical toll of feeling betrayed by your own body and by systems that are meant to help.
Readers are duly warned about the graphic nature of the book. It does not hold back on explicit depictions of miscarriage, medical procedures, intense body horror, gore, violence, and transformation. These unflinching moments serve the story’s themes around desperation, bodily autonomy, and societal pressures surrounding motherhood and can be confronting. If topics of infertility, pregnancy or infant loss, depression, or extreme horror are sensitive for you, approach with care and heed the content warnings.
Having said that, I admire that Chloe refuses to offer the reader easy comfort, offering instead a bold unfiltered exploration of how far longing can push someone and the monstrous places it might lead. For those ready for the intensity, it’s a memorable and thought provoking dive. To end on a lighter note, I loved how the story was peppered with humor and the fishy names of the characters. Well done Chloe!
July 4, 2026
Debut horror
She said she’d do anything to have a baby in Squid Ward.
Dory is desperate for a child. After multiple miscarriages, her options are running out as fast as her finances. Then a late night internet search brings her to an obstetrician recruiting patients for an experimental trial. Despite her misgivings (and the multiple red flags), she jumps at the chance to participate.
…and that’s when things get weird.
Newly pregnant, Dory experiences symptoms that are outside of the norm for pregnancy - like lactating ink, and craving raw fish. Then there are the disturbing dreams about an octopus getting a little *too* close for her liking. With her pregnancy moving faster than expected, it won’t be long until Dory is finally a mother. But at what cost?
This debut horror novella was fascinating. While I am not typically a horror fan, it was very readable and easy to connect to emotionally. The desperation to become a mother is incredibly relatable, and it is easy to see how choices can move from appalling to appealing.
The story is filled with fish and nautical jokes (Dory is short for Dorothy; she borrows money from S. Hark Financing). Set in Australia, we see Dory’s strained relationships with the casually racist non-Aboriginal parts of her family. Her struggle with infertility is graphic at times, but it helps the reader to understand the gut wrenching despair Dory feels.
This is not a romance. There is spiciness of varying degrees in the book (including a pretty disturbing impregnation scene). There’s some pretty heavy themes in the story including body horror, on page miscarriage and racism. It is definitely a check your warnings kind of read.
If horror books are your scene, get behind a brand new Aussie author and add Squid Ward to your TBR.
She said she’d do anything to have a baby in Squid Ward.
Dory is desperate for a child. After multiple miscarriages, her options are running out as fast as her finances. Then a late night internet search brings her to an obstetrician recruiting patients for an experimental trial. Despite her misgivings (and the multiple red flags), she jumps at the chance to participate.
…and that’s when things get weird.
Newly pregnant, Dory experiences symptoms that are outside of the norm for pregnancy - like lactating ink, and craving raw fish. Then there are the disturbing dreams about an octopus getting a little *too* close for her liking. With her pregnancy moving faster than expected, it won’t be long until Dory is finally a mother. But at what cost?
This debut horror novella was fascinating. While I am not typically a horror fan, it was very readable and easy to connect to emotionally. The desperation to become a mother is incredibly relatable, and it is easy to see how choices can move from appalling to appealing.
The story is filled with fish and nautical jokes (Dory is short for Dorothy; she borrows money from S. Hark Financing). Set in Australia, we see Dory’s strained relationships with the casually racist non-Aboriginal parts of her family. Her struggle with infertility is graphic at times, but it helps the reader to understand the gut wrenching despair Dory feels.
This is not a romance. There is spiciness of varying degrees in the book (including a pretty disturbing impregnation scene). There’s some pretty heavy themes in the story including body horror, on page miscarriage and racism. It is definitely a check your warnings kind of read.
If horror books are your scene, get behind a brand new Aussie author and add Squid Ward to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ARC REVIEW✨️
"The ease of this movement and the apparent calmness of the octopus in tow indicate this is a well-practiced one with a familial bond between man and cephalopod."
First of all I want to thank @thelabrarian with all my heart (and tentacles) for this arc opportunity. Its been such a pleasure being a Squid Warden. 🫶🏻
This story is such a unique way to express the struggles and heartache women go through during infertility and pregnancy loss and is also related to what some of us experience as we are cast aside by medical professionals because we are women or a person of colour. The deep undertones really saying "something ain't right here and it really shouldn't be this way." ✊🏾 The writing is so well done to the point I could feel the hurt, grief and yearning alongside Dory. 😢
A story that blends deep raw topics, mixed with an insane experiment, that is oozing with dark humor and includes a trawler full of puns really takes you on the craziest of rides. I don't even know how to explain it... It grossed me out and made me teary on multplie occasions. The laughs and shock factor were very entertaining. 👏🏻 Also... That ending WHAT THE HELL? I could not deal I was a stunned mullet. Jaw was dropped! 😱
A truly one of a kind reading experience and I would do it all over again tentacles and all! 🦑
Well done, Chloe you absolutely did the damn thing with this story. I can feel you put alot of your self into these pages and for that I have so much respect. I am in awe of how strong you are. For a debut this is insanely good. I can’t wait to see where your next voyage takes you. 💛
"The ease of this movement and the apparent calmness of the octopus in tow indicate this is a well-practiced one with a familial bond between man and cephalopod."
First of all I want to thank @thelabrarian with all my heart (and tentacles) for this arc opportunity. Its been such a pleasure being a Squid Warden. 🫶🏻
This story is such a unique way to express the struggles and heartache women go through during infertility and pregnancy loss and is also related to what some of us experience as we are cast aside by medical professionals because we are women or a person of colour. The deep undertones really saying "something ain't right here and it really shouldn't be this way." ✊🏾 The writing is so well done to the point I could feel the hurt, grief and yearning alongside Dory. 😢
A story that blends deep raw topics, mixed with an insane experiment, that is oozing with dark humor and includes a trawler full of puns really takes you on the craziest of rides. I don't even know how to explain it... It grossed me out and made me teary on multplie occasions. The laughs and shock factor were very entertaining. 👏🏻 Also... That ending WHAT THE HELL? I could not deal I was a stunned mullet. Jaw was dropped! 😱
A truly one of a kind reading experience and I would do it all over again tentacles and all! 🦑
Well done, Chloe you absolutely did the damn thing with this story. I can feel you put alot of your self into these pages and for that I have so much respect. I am in awe of how strong you are. For a debut this is insanely good. I can’t wait to see where your next voyage takes you. 💛
Review of advance copy received from Author
The perils of women, no one wants to understand and no one wants to listen. How beautifully has Chloe portrayed it through this dark horror novella. Women are strong, resilient and heavily underestimated. Especially when it comes to our bodies and our babies our strength and sheer will knows no bounds. We can literally go to hells gate just to become a mother and then for the protection of our child.
This novel is dark, emotional and sadly relatable. At every point you’d be faced with a “yeah been there” especially if you’re a woman. She has layered this fictional story with the horrors of real life. I read it in one setting and I cried from the first page. Actually from the dedication page. Chloe is a natural author. I’d be keen to see what she writes next. It’s such a gripping and interesting story! Very unique!
Dory wants to be a mother. But nature probably didn’t plan this for her. Even with a supportive husband, she’s lonely because no one can truly what she’s going through. But at last she finds a doctor who’s willing to try something different for her to fall pregnant. And that she does. But something’s different. And when she finds out what, it’s already too late. Because at hell’s gate she gained a baby.
This story will stay with me for a long time! Please preorder the book not only because this is a must read novella but also because proceeds from each preorder will be donated towards Bears of Hope - an Australian organisation that provides support for families that have gone through pregnancy and infant loss.
Thank you Chloe for a chance to review your book prerelease! So much love for you!
This novel is dark, emotional and sadly relatable. At every point you’d be faced with a “yeah been there” especially if you’re a woman. She has layered this fictional story with the horrors of real life. I read it in one setting and I cried from the first page. Actually from the dedication page. Chloe is a natural author. I’d be keen to see what she writes next. It’s such a gripping and interesting story! Very unique!
Dory wants to be a mother. But nature probably didn’t plan this for her. Even with a supportive husband, she’s lonely because no one can truly what she’s going through. But at last she finds a doctor who’s willing to try something different for her to fall pregnant. And that she does. But something’s different. And when she finds out what, it’s already too late. Because at hell’s gate she gained a baby.
This story will stay with me for a long time! Please preorder the book not only because this is a must read novella but also because proceeds from each preorder will be donated towards Bears of Hope - an Australian organisation that provides support for families that have gone through pregnancy and infant loss.
Thank you Chloe for a chance to review your book prerelease! So much love for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Chloe has pulled together the utter anguish of wanting a child, the fear and terror that it will never happen, interspersed with some realistic hitting scenes then unravelling it all with body horror that tests everyone's sanity.
In other words, this is a raw and gritty story about loss, desires and the lengths someone will go for their version of happily ever after.
I'm not going to lie, this book is uncomfortable in places, I had to stop and look away from the words in certain scenes, but always immediately looked back and kept reading. It was compelling in its dirtiness, it's awful truths and the decisions our main character Dory makes.
Even though I don't agree with some of Dory's choices, I could understand why they were made, and Chloe has done an incredible job of stretching reality, eking out that sense of dread so it stays just under the surface of your skin and creating a FMC who is strong, unique and full of resolve. You can't help the connection you'll feel to Dory (and the want inside that she'll be successful in her endeavour, even as her world falls apart around her).
So are you brave enough to dive into Dory's world as she navigates the waters with an experimental procedure that could land her in the deep end? (You'll appreciate my water puns once you've read it!)
If you enjoy reading about:
- body horror
- pregnancy loss and infertility
- experimental procedures
- puns and play on aquatic words
- questionable medical staff
- grief and trauma
- BIPOC rep
- a sense of dread
Then pick this one up as soon as you can! I read this prior to official publication date.
In other words, this is a raw and gritty story about loss, desires and the lengths someone will go for their version of happily ever after.
I'm not going to lie, this book is uncomfortable in places, I had to stop and look away from the words in certain scenes, but always immediately looked back and kept reading. It was compelling in its dirtiness, it's awful truths and the decisions our main character Dory makes.
Even though I don't agree with some of Dory's choices, I could understand why they were made, and Chloe has done an incredible job of stretching reality, eking out that sense of dread so it stays just under the surface of your skin and creating a FMC who is strong, unique and full of resolve. You can't help the connection you'll feel to Dory (and the want inside that she'll be successful in her endeavour, even as her world falls apart around her).
So are you brave enough to dive into Dory's world as she navigates the waters with an experimental procedure that could land her in the deep end? (You'll appreciate my water puns once you've read it!)
If you enjoy reading about:
- body horror
- pregnancy loss and infertility
- experimental procedures
- puns and play on aquatic words
- questionable medical staff
- grief and trauma
- BIPOC rep
- a sense of dread
Then pick this one up as soon as you can! I read this prior to official publication date.
June 21, 2026
After years of heartbreak and loss, Dory Angler has accepted that motherhood may never be hers. When a charismatic doctor offers her a final chance through a groundbreaking fertility procedure, hope drives her to take the biggest risk of her life. But after the surgery, Dory must face a terrifying question: is she carrying a miracle or a nightmare?
As someone who has gone through many of these experiences myself, and who is at an age where people either pity or judge you for not having children, this novella struck a deep chord. It brilliantly explores the societal expectations placed on women and the extent women go through to become mothers, but with a darkly horrific twist that makes the story all the more compelling.
I loved the character names and how cleverly they connected to the story. The dark humour and satire were highly entertaining and added another layer to the narrative without taking away from the suspense, horror, or the difficult decisions Dory is forced to make throughout her journey.
The body horror is exceptional. Knowing the physical and emotional toll that women often endure in the pursuit of motherhood, this story takes those realities and amplifies them into something truly unsettling. It also deals heavily with loss and grief, and it is clear that the author has a deep understanding of these themes. The extensive trigger warnings are very much appreciated!!
A huge thank you to Chloe for reaching out and providing me with an ARC copy. I was incredibly excited to read this debut, and it absolutely lived up to my expectations. 4/5
Available on the 3rd July 2026.
As someone who has gone through many of these experiences myself, and who is at an age where people either pity or judge you for not having children, this novella struck a deep chord. It brilliantly explores the societal expectations placed on women and the extent women go through to become mothers, but with a darkly horrific twist that makes the story all the more compelling.
I loved the character names and how cleverly they connected to the story. The dark humour and satire were highly entertaining and added another layer to the narrative without taking away from the suspense, horror, or the difficult decisions Dory is forced to make throughout her journey.
The body horror is exceptional. Knowing the physical and emotional toll that women often endure in the pursuit of motherhood, this story takes those realities and amplifies them into something truly unsettling. It also deals heavily with loss and grief, and it is clear that the author has a deep understanding of these themes. The extensive trigger warnings are very much appreciated!!
A huge thank you to Chloe for reaching out and providing me with an ARC copy. I was incredibly excited to read this debut, and it absolutely lived up to my expectations. 4/5
Available on the 3rd July 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Squid Ward 🦑 - ARC REVIEW
This one was definitely a unique and memorable read, that’s for sure.
As someone who has lived through infertility - it took me 12 years to have my son, 11 miscarriages, multiple surgeries, losing an ovary, many medicated cycles and IVF… parts of this story hit incredibly close to home and tears were shed. The desperation, the longing, the emotional toll — those elements felt very real and raw.
I really enjoyed the Aussie humour woven throughout, it added moments of lightness amongst some super heavy themes. And Dory had some standout moments, I loved seeing her stand her ground and find her voice - get it tids!
For a debut novel, it’s clear Chloe isn’t afraid to take risks and explore darker, more confronting ideas, which I always admire in an author. One thing that Chloe did so remarkably well was touch on the racism we First Nations woman get on the daily, as soon as they see that boxed ticked we are often dismissed and we can even receive this racism from within our own families and to see this written in such a powerful story? I was in awe.
The writing is so incredibly vivid and you can tell a lot of heart and soul went into this story.
Horror isn’t my go-to genre at all but this, I finished in under 12 hours even while being a busy mumma…it kept me turning the pages to see where it would go next.
Huge congratulations to Chloe on your debut 🫶🏼 from one indigenous woman to another, I am so proud of you sis!
🖤💛❤️
This one was definitely a unique and memorable read, that’s for sure.
As someone who has lived through infertility - it took me 12 years to have my son, 11 miscarriages, multiple surgeries, losing an ovary, many medicated cycles and IVF… parts of this story hit incredibly close to home and tears were shed. The desperation, the longing, the emotional toll — those elements felt very real and raw.
I really enjoyed the Aussie humour woven throughout, it added moments of lightness amongst some super heavy themes. And Dory had some standout moments, I loved seeing her stand her ground and find her voice - get it tids!
For a debut novel, it’s clear Chloe isn’t afraid to take risks and explore darker, more confronting ideas, which I always admire in an author. One thing that Chloe did so remarkably well was touch on the racism we First Nations woman get on the daily, as soon as they see that boxed ticked we are often dismissed and we can even receive this racism from within our own families and to see this written in such a powerful story? I was in awe.
The writing is so incredibly vivid and you can tell a lot of heart and soul went into this story.
Horror isn’t my go-to genre at all but this, I finished in under 12 hours even while being a busy mumma…it kept me turning the pages to see where it would go next.
Huge congratulations to Chloe on your debut 🫶🏼 from one indigenous woman to another, I am so proud of you sis!
🖤💛❤️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
🐙 SQUID WARD 🐙 by Chloe Jayne @thelabrarian coming July 3rd
.
This tasty spec fic, tentacled horror fest was a delight to read. I burned through the novella pretty quick, keen to see how it all unravelled.
.
The writing danced a really fun line of evocative, dramatic, dark and funny, spicy and grief filled. Never holding back, it got gritty and saucy, and ultimately deadly.
.
I swear all the puns made every page better. From Dr Barry Mundi, to Dory herself, Ann Chovy and the one and only Dr Barry Cuda, there is an ocean themed pun for every occasion.
.
Definitely grab a copy if youre looking for a quick, gnarly horror. But check your trigger warnings for this wild and salty (very adult) ride 🌊
.
🍿 scale: nicely mid range for me. Its heavy in some of the content, but so wild and absurd that it still lands in the snack aisle.
.
👻 scale: we got a lot of tentacles and undesirable men, but nothing thats gonna keep you up at night 🐙
.
📖 BLURB 📖
.
At hell’s heart a desperate choice is made to have a baby.
Motherhood has always been out of reach and after years of loss and grief, Dory Angler believed she would never hold her own child in her arms.
When a charming doctor comes into her life with a promise of finally becoming a mother, hope inspires Dory to go to all lengths, including undergoing a revolutionary procedure for one last shot at pregnancy.
Post surgery, Dory is changed forever. Will she give birth or is this the worst mistake of her life?
.
This tasty spec fic, tentacled horror fest was a delight to read. I burned through the novella pretty quick, keen to see how it all unravelled.
.
The writing danced a really fun line of evocative, dramatic, dark and funny, spicy and grief filled. Never holding back, it got gritty and saucy, and ultimately deadly.
.
I swear all the puns made every page better. From Dr Barry Mundi, to Dory herself, Ann Chovy and the one and only Dr Barry Cuda, there is an ocean themed pun for every occasion.
.
Definitely grab a copy if youre looking for a quick, gnarly horror. But check your trigger warnings for this wild and salty (very adult) ride 🌊
.
🍿 scale: nicely mid range for me. Its heavy in some of the content, but so wild and absurd that it still lands in the snack aisle.
.
👻 scale: we got a lot of tentacles and undesirable men, but nothing thats gonna keep you up at night 🐙
.
📖 BLURB 📖
.
At hell’s heart a desperate choice is made to have a baby.
Motherhood has always been out of reach and after years of loss and grief, Dory Angler believed she would never hold her own child in her arms.
When a charming doctor comes into her life with a promise of finally becoming a mother, hope inspires Dory to go to all lengths, including undergoing a revolutionary procedure for one last shot at pregnancy.
Post surgery, Dory is changed forever. Will she give birth or is this the worst mistake of her life?
July 2, 2026
• BOOK REVIEW •
NEW ARC READ!
Date of Publication : 3rd July 2026!!!
Date : 2nd July 2026
Book : Squid Ward
Author : Chloe Jayne
Genre : Sci-Fi / Bodily Horror
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*THIS BOOK CONTAINS TRIGGER WARNINGS*
This book was interesting for sure. It had relatable issues with fertility, to steamy scenes and to bodily horror! It all played a part to make a really good storyline honestly (including the steamy scenes) because it showed the emotional connection and depth between the characters.
This book is about a woman named Dory. Her husband and her have been trying for so many years to have a child and they have had so many miscarriages. But despite it all, their love and loyalty towards each other is still intact and they know despite the financial constraint, they are still gonna try make it happen.
That is until Dory is offered a discounted fee on an experimental procedure that would guarantee a child. Would you jump on this when all else fails? How desperate would you go to have a kid of your own?
This was an extremely fast paced read with only 138 pages, guys! All I could think of while reading this book was the movie ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ and ‘Aliens’😂
Thank you to the author for reaching out and letting me give my honest review and thoughts on this book! 🦑
#bookstagram #bookrecs #squidward #scifi #horror • sci-fi • bodily horror • grief • infertility • hope and desperation •
NEW ARC READ!
Date of Publication : 3rd July 2026!!!
Date : 2nd July 2026
Book : Squid Ward
Author : Chloe Jayne
Genre : Sci-Fi / Bodily Horror
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*THIS BOOK CONTAINS TRIGGER WARNINGS*
This book was interesting for sure. It had relatable issues with fertility, to steamy scenes and to bodily horror! It all played a part to make a really good storyline honestly (including the steamy scenes) because it showed the emotional connection and depth between the characters.
This book is about a woman named Dory. Her husband and her have been trying for so many years to have a child and they have had so many miscarriages. But despite it all, their love and loyalty towards each other is still intact and they know despite the financial constraint, they are still gonna try make it happen.
That is until Dory is offered a discounted fee on an experimental procedure that would guarantee a child. Would you jump on this when all else fails? How desperate would you go to have a kid of your own?
This was an extremely fast paced read with only 138 pages, guys! All I could think of while reading this book was the movie ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ and ‘Aliens’😂
Thank you to the author for reaching out and letting me give my honest review and thoughts on this book! 🦑
#bookstagram #bookrecs #squidward #scifi #horror • sci-fi • bodily horror • grief • infertility • hope and desperation •
July 3, 2026
I’m truly impressed by this short tale that takes on a very sensitive topic transforming it into a twisty and shocking read with plenty of dark humour.
I was instantly taken by the author’s writing, which is full of sarcasm and very easy to read, right to the choice of names, which made me chuckle a lot. As mentioned above, the subject at the centre of the book is one that is considered taboo, and it is certainly not talked about enough, but that people struggle with every day, often in silence and with a lot of pain.
Dory and her partner in fact have struggled for years with having a baby and when finally Dory takes matters into her own hands, she couldn’t be happier. She finally has a baby growing inside her, although things don’t seem as normal as they should.
This little sci-fi story packs a lot in terms of emotions, but also twists.. I was surprised by the pace and how the plot was tackled by the author, keeping the reader on their toes right until the end. And even then, there is a massive twist that the reader knows it’s coming in some way, but can’t imagine just what it could be.
Right at the end, the author managed to play me well, and I had a complete change of heart towards one of the characters, totally unexpected.
Whilst the story is a great sci-fi with lots of body horror, it also leaves the reader with a lot of food for thought and a heightened empathic state.
Thanks to the author for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
I was instantly taken by the author’s writing, which is full of sarcasm and very easy to read, right to the choice of names, which made me chuckle a lot. As mentioned above, the subject at the centre of the book is one that is considered taboo, and it is certainly not talked about enough, but that people struggle with every day, often in silence and with a lot of pain.
Dory and her partner in fact have struggled for years with having a baby and when finally Dory takes matters into her own hands, she couldn’t be happier. She finally has a baby growing inside her, although things don’t seem as normal as they should.
This little sci-fi story packs a lot in terms of emotions, but also twists.. I was surprised by the pace and how the plot was tackled by the author, keeping the reader on their toes right until the end. And even then, there is a massive twist that the reader knows it’s coming in some way, but can’t imagine just what it could be.
Right at the end, the author managed to play me well, and I had a complete change of heart towards one of the characters, totally unexpected.
Whilst the story is a great sci-fi with lots of body horror, it also leaves the reader with a lot of food for thought and a heightened empathic state.
Thanks to the author for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
July 19, 2026
🐙 Sci-fi horror that tears at the heartstrings and makes you feel gutted for the main character? Well, this one pretty much lingers... so have with you a stiff drink.
Chloe Jayne has built a story around the loss of pregnancies and the lengths a woman would go to for a child, wrapping it all in an underwater theme that offers just enough distance to make the darker moments bearable.
As a debut, the prose is confident and the plot pulls hard enough that you’ll be bargaining with yourself over “just one more chapter’ at 1am.
Squid Ward is not an easy read for anyone triggered by the subject matter, and the warnings are there for good reason, but if you can sit still with the main character, Dory’s, decisions without needing to agree with them, you’re in for a wild ride (the kind where you occasionally have to stare at the wall for a minute and reassess your own life choices).
The ocean-themed names for every character are a small delight, and are genuinely creative touches throughout; the nods to Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings woven in landed perfectly.
Some parts sit uncomfortably, and I found myself asking why, why, why more than once. But once you factor in the main character’s psychological thinking, it makes sense: want, desire and need override everything else.
Chloe Jayne has built a story around the loss of pregnancies and the lengths a woman would go to for a child, wrapping it all in an underwater theme that offers just enough distance to make the darker moments bearable.
As a debut, the prose is confident and the plot pulls hard enough that you’ll be bargaining with yourself over “just one more chapter’ at 1am.
Squid Ward is not an easy read for anyone triggered by the subject matter, and the warnings are there for good reason, but if you can sit still with the main character, Dory’s, decisions without needing to agree with them, you’re in for a wild ride (the kind where you occasionally have to stare at the wall for a minute and reassess your own life choices).
The ocean-themed names for every character are a small delight, and are genuinely creative touches throughout; the nods to Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings woven in landed perfectly.
Some parts sit uncomfortably, and I found myself asking why, why, why more than once. But once you factor in the main character’s psychological thinking, it makes sense: want, desire and need override everything else.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A short, fast paced read that will have you squirming.
You can tell this is a topic close to the author and when you put the horror aspects aside this is a real look into what drives people and the lengths they will go to to achieve their dreams of becoming a parent.
It breaks my heart that when i asked Chloe about a certain scene in the book, she confirmed it was a first hand experience. While i have never endured infertility or pregnancy loss, i can certainly relate to being cast aside by medical professionals and the whole thing really grinds my gears.
Take the trigger warnings seriously because this story takes a really hard turn into some pretty wild stuff and Chloe refuses to give you a life jacket as you dive into the deep end. I was grimacing and laughing and quite grossed out.
Emotional turmoil and horror aside, this was also very humorous. I was highlighting funny little quips right the way through and believe i will now try to insert the following statement into my daily life somewhere.
𝙄𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙠.
Congratulations and Thankyou to Chloe Jayne for the opportunity to read an early copy of Squid Ward
You can tell this is a topic close to the author and when you put the horror aspects aside this is a real look into what drives people and the lengths they will go to to achieve their dreams of becoming a parent.
It breaks my heart that when i asked Chloe about a certain scene in the book, she confirmed it was a first hand experience. While i have never endured infertility or pregnancy loss, i can certainly relate to being cast aside by medical professionals and the whole thing really grinds my gears.
Take the trigger warnings seriously because this story takes a really hard turn into some pretty wild stuff and Chloe refuses to give you a life jacket as you dive into the deep end. I was grimacing and laughing and quite grossed out.
Emotional turmoil and horror aside, this was also very humorous. I was highlighting funny little quips right the way through and believe i will now try to insert the following statement into my daily life somewhere.
𝙄𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙠.
Congratulations and Thankyou to Chloe Jayne for the opportunity to read an early copy of Squid Ward
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alright, listen up!
Squid Ward is this wild, heart wrenching ride about Dory, a woman who’s ready to throw caution to the sea and do absolutely anything for a baby. Seriously, we're talking about some extreme measures here, and it's both hilarious and downright disturbing. Chloe dives deep into this emotional ocean of infertility, heartache, and motherhood cravings with a splash of sea creature madness. It’s like if someone mixed medical struggles with a horror movie and threw a fishing net full of dark humor right in your face!
I mean, you can feel Chloe's own pain pouring out through Dory. It’s raw, it’s real, and honestly, it hits you right in the gut. From the frustrating medical appointments to that gut wrenching grief that comes crashing down like a rogue wave; it's intense!
And don’t even get me started on the ending! It’s like a punch to the gut that left me totally floored.
This story is a rollercoaster of emotions, with a few drops of belly laughs and a whole lot of “what the heck?” moments that’ll leave you reeling. It'll gross you out while making you tear up. It’s a mixed bag, but wow, what a crazy, beautiful mess!
Squid Ward is this wild, heart wrenching ride about Dory, a woman who’s ready to throw caution to the sea and do absolutely anything for a baby. Seriously, we're talking about some extreme measures here, and it's both hilarious and downright disturbing. Chloe dives deep into this emotional ocean of infertility, heartache, and motherhood cravings with a splash of sea creature madness. It’s like if someone mixed medical struggles with a horror movie and threw a fishing net full of dark humor right in your face!
I mean, you can feel Chloe's own pain pouring out through Dory. It’s raw, it’s real, and honestly, it hits you right in the gut. From the frustrating medical appointments to that gut wrenching grief that comes crashing down like a rogue wave; it's intense!
And don’t even get me started on the ending! It’s like a punch to the gut that left me totally floored.
This story is a rollercoaster of emotions, with a few drops of belly laughs and a whole lot of “what the heck?” moments that’ll leave you reeling. It'll gross you out while making you tear up. It’s a mixed bag, but wow, what a crazy, beautiful mess!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one is best described as absurdist horror. There is zero realism, but if you embrace the chaos, it becomes a wildly bizarre and unforgettable ride.
Dory Angler, after years of infertility and loss, agrees to an experimental procedure offered by the charming Dr Barry Cuda 🐟 in a final attempt to become a mother. What follows is a descent into fever-dream madness filled with sea creatures and a finale that is as gruesome as it is surreal.
This story hit close to home for me. Having experienced infertility, pregnancy loss, and endometriosis, Dory’s desperation felt deeply real. The miscarriage scene was graphic and emotional, making this a confronting but powerful read. Thankfully, I now have my miracle, which added an extra layer of emotion to the experience.
Dark humour and clever puns provide brief moments of levity before the story spirals into complete chaos. Emotional at the start and utterly bizarre by the end, this is a must for readers who enjoy strange, boundary-pushing horror.
Thank you to Chloe @thelabrarian for the opportunity to read Squid Ward in ARC format.
Dory Angler, after years of infertility and loss, agrees to an experimental procedure offered by the charming Dr Barry Cuda 🐟 in a final attempt to become a mother. What follows is a descent into fever-dream madness filled with sea creatures and a finale that is as gruesome as it is surreal.
This story hit close to home for me. Having experienced infertility, pregnancy loss, and endometriosis, Dory’s desperation felt deeply real. The miscarriage scene was graphic and emotional, making this a confronting but powerful read. Thankfully, I now have my miracle, which added an extra layer of emotion to the experience.
Dark humour and clever puns provide brief moments of levity before the story spirals into complete chaos. Emotional at the start and utterly bizarre by the end, this is a must for readers who enjoy strange, boundary-pushing horror.
Thank you to Chloe @thelabrarian for the opportunity to read Squid Ward in ARC format.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A story filled with grief, longing and a woman who will do anything to get that happy ending, and well don't expect that.
Wow, Chloe that for a debut? Goodness me, the heart you poured onto that page was phenomenal. The heartache I felt for Dory was exponential and just hurt me, in a good way.
Please check trigger warnings, you're in for a white water rafting experience so please make sure you check them and keep yourself safe.
PS. The names in this book, the puns and the constant references to the water was a great addition! Lighten the mood when it got heavy.
Dory just wanted one thing and everyone around her fell apart because of it and it was heartbreaking to read. This mixed with the horror of what Dr Barry Cudi (love the names btw) did but also understanding what he went through? Goodness, what a book.
Thank you for writing Squid Ward and I know for a fact many women out there will cheer you on for writing something so brave but healing too. 🫶🏻
Wow, Chloe that for a debut? Goodness me, the heart you poured onto that page was phenomenal. The heartache I felt for Dory was exponential and just hurt me, in a good way.
Please check trigger warnings, you're in for a white water rafting experience so please make sure you check them and keep yourself safe.
PS. The names in this book, the puns and the constant references to the water was a great addition! Lighten the mood when it got heavy.
Dory just wanted one thing and everyone around her fell apart because of it and it was heartbreaking to read. This mixed with the horror of what Dr Barry Cudi (love the names btw) did but also understanding what he went through? Goodness, what a book.
Thank you for writing Squid Ward and I know for a fact many women out there will cheer you on for writing something so brave but healing too. 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
Chloe Jayne's SQUID WARD is an absolute fever dream.
I thought I knew what I was getting into: body horror, experimental medical procedures, and the very human desire to have a child when you feel all hope has been lost. Despite knowing this, I was still shocked in all the best possible ways. There were times I had to put the book down and give myself a moment to process what had just happened, and by the end of it all I'm left reeling. No matter what you read about this book, nothing will prepare you for the reality of it. And I love that!
I'm usually the kind of person who will dive into a book blind, but given the sensitive topics Chloe addresses in this one, I absolutely recommend reading the trigger warnings/trope list. This book will not be for everyone.
SQUID WARD is a little on the shorter side - so much so that I was left begging for more - but it overall feels like a well-rounded, complete story.
And it absolutely increased my irrational fear of squid.
I thought I knew what I was getting into: body horror, experimental medical procedures, and the very human desire to have a child when you feel all hope has been lost. Despite knowing this, I was still shocked in all the best possible ways. There were times I had to put the book down and give myself a moment to process what had just happened, and by the end of it all I'm left reeling. No matter what you read about this book, nothing will prepare you for the reality of it. And I love that!
I'm usually the kind of person who will dive into a book blind, but given the sensitive topics Chloe addresses in this one, I absolutely recommend reading the trigger warnings/trope list. This book will not be for everyone.
SQUID WARD is a little on the shorter side - so much so that I was left begging for more - but it overall feels like a well-rounded, complete story.
And it absolutely increased my irrational fear of squid.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn't know what I was getting on board with, but Chloe's debut horror novella suckered me in!
So, about me...
I've been pregnant nine times!
I have four amazing children.
Pregnancy loss is a part of my journey.
Chapter 2 threw me back to a moment in time. I could still remember those emotions, feel that pain. I had to sit back from the book for a moment to digest that part of my past.
I would urge readers to check the triggers, know your own emotional state, dive in with care.
Chloe weaves an emotional tale of loss and desperation with a tidal wave of ocean references and puns that strangely help to lighten the chaos.
We have intrique and horror that swirl together effortlessly (with a delicious sinister undercurrent).
It kept my ink-terest piqued!
I was reeled in, hook, line and sinker!
So, about me...
I've been pregnant nine times!
I have four amazing children.
Pregnancy loss is a part of my journey.
Chapter 2 threw me back to a moment in time. I could still remember those emotions, feel that pain. I had to sit back from the book for a moment to digest that part of my past.
I would urge readers to check the triggers, know your own emotional state, dive in with care.
Chloe weaves an emotional tale of loss and desperation with a tidal wave of ocean references and puns that strangely help to lighten the chaos.
We have intrique and horror that swirl together effortlessly (with a delicious sinister undercurrent).
It kept my ink-terest piqued!
I was reeled in, hook, line and sinker!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm not much of a horror reader because my imagination is incredible all on its own and needs zero encouragement!
I feel funny saying I 'enjoyed' this story because although it has horror elements it's firmly based on the heartbreaking reality and the desperation to conceive that many people live through on a daily basis.
There were scenes in this that I imagine many women have experienced while battling infertility and they are truly heartbreaking. Miscarriage, being disregarded by doctors and dealing with insensitive people and their opinions are just a couple of the topics covered and done in a way that is both confronting but also extremely honest.
An incredible debut that had my heart breaking but also grossed me out and also gave me the occasional giggle!!
Congratulations Chloe 🖤
I feel funny saying I 'enjoyed' this story because although it has horror elements it's firmly based on the heartbreaking reality and the desperation to conceive that many people live through on a daily basis.
There were scenes in this that I imagine many women have experienced while battling infertility and they are truly heartbreaking. Miscarriage, being disregarded by doctors and dealing with insensitive people and their opinions are just a couple of the topics covered and done in a way that is both confronting but also extremely honest.
An incredible debut that had my heart breaking but also grossed me out and also gave me the occasional giggle!!
Congratulations Chloe 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
A GLORIOUS, UNEXPECTED, TWISTED AND THRILLING READ! GET YOUR JIGS READY! WE ARE GOING SQUIDDING!
Chloe Jayne has written probably my favourite horror book of 2026!!! The visceral imagery, the anguish Dory experiences!!! I honestly was blown away by this story! I may be biased as I am Chloe’s friend but I’m also a hard reader to impress.
This was a phenomenal, dark and twisted ride about woman’s autonomy, the journey to go to any lengths to have a child and how desire can change you forever!
I support women’s rights and wrongs! And this book is just one in the many stories coming from Chloe that I am excited to watch her craft grow!!
Chloe Jayne has written probably my favourite horror book of 2026!!! The visceral imagery, the anguish Dory experiences!!! I honestly was blown away by this story! I may be biased as I am Chloe’s friend but I’m also a hard reader to impress.
This was a phenomenal, dark and twisted ride about woman’s autonomy, the journey to go to any lengths to have a child and how desire can change you forever!
I support women’s rights and wrongs! And this book is just one in the many stories coming from Chloe that I am excited to watch her craft grow!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this story as an ARC and was yanked hook, line and sinker into Dory’s story of grief and desperation. Chloe’s briny expedition into the shady ins and out of Dr Barry Cuda and his little shop of obstetric horrors was positively gruesome at times, and left me squirming like a fish out of water in my seat. As someone who has battled the fertility white whale once before, this tail [sic] felt close to home and tackled a subject so many go through and yet is not often discussed. If you enjoy body horror, fish puns and top shelf references to pop culture, you will love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First person POV books are always a bit of a struggle for me. But I genuinely enjoyed this read. You can feel the raw emotion that Chloe puts into her writing, and if you've ever been on the wrong side of fertility issues, this will hit home.
There are some fantastic moments in the book, ones that will have you cringing, crying, laughing, and horrified, sometimes all of the above #theultrasound, which is a testament to the story. That blend of science fiction and reality is a an artform, and Chloe has a knack for it.
There are some fantastic moments in the book, ones that will have you cringing, crying, laughing, and horrified, sometimes all of the above #theultrasound, which is a testament to the story. That blend of science fiction and reality is a an artform, and Chloe has a knack for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This fantastic sci-fi horror will have you on the edge of your seat.
Chloe Jayne writes cleverly in this novella, adding themes of grief and loss twisted into desire and horror.
This is the first book I have read that really dives into the subject of infertility and pregnancy loss, and Chloe masters this at great personal cost, making it all the more inspiring to read.
If you're a fan of Stephen King, keep on the watch for Chloe Jayne – the next biggest writer in horror fiction.
Chloe Jayne writes cleverly in this novella, adding themes of grief and loss twisted into desire and horror.
This is the first book I have read that really dives into the subject of infertility and pregnancy loss, and Chloe masters this at great personal cost, making it all the more inspiring to read.
If you're a fan of Stephen King, keep on the watch for Chloe Jayne – the next biggest writer in horror fiction.
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