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Larva
Would you leave everything for a real change? Think twice. Running from your old life might be the most dangerous decision you'll ever make.
For Lisa, it is no different. She is drowning in a life that has lost all meaning. Desperate for a moment of stillness, she slips away to an abandoned park in the middle of the night — just to breathe.
The last thing she expects is to meet a stranger who sits beside her out of nowhere, with an offer that cuts straight to the heart of everything she's been running from. His words sound too strange to take seriously, but it takes only a few more days before the proposition grows harder to ignore.
There is only one condition. Everything she is, everything she was — must be left behind. Lisa thinks of it as a fresh start. He calls it something else entirely.
SACRIFICE
For Lisa, it is no different. She is drowning in a life that has lost all meaning. Desperate for a moment of stillness, she slips away to an abandoned park in the middle of the night — just to breathe.
The last thing she expects is to meet a stranger who sits beside her out of nowhere, with an offer that cuts straight to the heart of everything she's been running from. His words sound too strange to take seriously, but it takes only a few more days before the proposition grows harder to ignore.
There is only one condition. Everything she is, everything she was — must be left behind. Lisa thinks of it as a fresh start. He calls it something else entirely.
SACRIFICE
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 12, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Not quite sure what to feel, but I think I need therapy after this book.
It had some wild moments and left me utterly perplexed. Is this a cult or a full-blown conspiracy?
Lisa is an outstanding character. Her constant doubt had me nodding along like, yep, same girl, same. She's a strong, selfless character.
Simon, on the other hand, was the human version of nails on a chalkboard.
This book had me on edge, and there were times I wanted to shake Lisa silly.  It was well-written and fast-paced. I enjoyed this.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
Not quite sure what to feel, but I think I need therapy after this book.
It had some wild moments and left me utterly perplexed. Is this a cult or a full-blown conspiracy?
Lisa is an outstanding character. Her constant doubt had me nodding along like, yep, same girl, same. She's a strong, selfless character.
Simon, on the other hand, was the human version of nails on a chalkboard.
This book had me on edge, and there were times I wanted to shake Lisa silly.  It was well-written and fast-paced. I enjoyed this.
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
June 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Curiosity is a powerful force, and let me tell you that by the time I finished this book, my main thought was: What the hell did I just read?
Our main character, Lisa, has lost her way. Stuck in the monotony and chaos of everyday life, she is approached by a stranger who promises to "enlighten" her and help her see beyond her current existence. As the story unfolds, I found myself nodding along with Lisa's reactions. The situations she found herself in felt believable, and I understood many of her responses, even when events took increasingly unsettling turns.
This book is intense in the most delicious way—equal parts unsettling, thought-provoking, and impossible to put down. It constantly challenged me to question what was happening and where the story was headed next.
While I wouldn't call the ending a cliffhanger, there is clearly more to this story. Questions remain, and I am hopeful that this is not the last we've seen of these characters. I would absolutely continue reading if the story continues.
Curiosity is a powerful force, and let me tell you that by the time I finished this book, my main thought was: What the hell did I just read?
Our main character, Lisa, has lost her way. Stuck in the monotony and chaos of everyday life, she is approached by a stranger who promises to "enlighten" her and help her see beyond her current existence. As the story unfolds, I found myself nodding along with Lisa's reactions. The situations she found herself in felt believable, and I understood many of her responses, even when events took increasingly unsettling turns.
This book is intense in the most delicious way—equal parts unsettling, thought-provoking, and impossible to put down. It constantly challenged me to question what was happening and where the story was headed next.
While I wouldn't call the ending a cliffhanger, there is clearly more to this story. Questions remain, and I am hopeful that this is not the last we've seen of these characters. I would absolutely continue reading if the story continues.
July 23, 2026
i received this novel as an ARC and although i was unable to finish it prior to publication due to life getting in the way, i am happy to say i have finally finished! this book was a wild ride. it started a little slow, but once things picked up i literally could not put the book down. all the twists and turns always had me guessing what would come next. i’m not even sure what to compare this book to, since i’ve never read anything like it. super weird (which i love) and unsettling in the best of ways. i am so so excited to see what comes next. big thank you to both the author and netgalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this book!
June 9, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this novel.
This was exactly what I needed to break out of a reading slump. I had been struggling to find a book that could truly surprise me, but this one kept me engaged from beginning to end.
The story is fast-paced, layered, and full of clever misdirection. And then there's the ending - it left me with so many questions and a strong desire to know what happens next. Readers who enjoy suspenseful, unpredictable cult stories will likely find this a compelling and satisfying read.
Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this novel.
This was exactly what I needed to break out of a reading slump. I had been struggling to find a book that could truly surprise me, but this one kept me engaged from beginning to end.
The story is fast-paced, layered, and full of clever misdirection. And then there's the ending - it left me with so many questions and a strong desire to know what happens next. Readers who enjoy suspenseful, unpredictable cult stories will likely find this a compelling and satisfying read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2026
Wow this book!!!! There are so many twists and turns in it! Definitely a must read especially if you like topics that involve cults!
June 18, 2026
lisa will return in avengers: doomsday
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
4.5 stars 🌟
First and foremost, thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing and Luca Goodwill, the author, for this ARC!
This story had been utterly hooked from the get go. Lisa, the FMC, felt totally relatable, and this in turn lulled me into comfort and security being able to follow the story from her POV.
I’ve always had such a fascination with cults, and the way in which their leaders and followers are able to manage, manipulate, and ultimately control the mindsets and behaviours of new recruits.. and this story showed this with such clarity, and also compassion for Lisa and her turbulent emotions through the indoctrination process.
Some scenes I did audibly gasp at… like hello?? ADAM REALLY DID THAT??! The ups and downs of the story really had me on the edge of my seat at times and I really did not want to but it down.
I have only marked lower due to the way the story ended. It frustrated me how the safety Lisa thought she had secured wasn’t actually so, and her saviours actually were all part of the greater plan … very clever and I did not see this coming, but frustrating nonetheless. Her response also irked me… it just didn’t seem to match any of her beliefs and thoughts throughout (I can see where the author was trying to go with this, but it wasn’t clear enough to feel right, if that makes any sense?)
Either way, I really really hope this isn’t the end of Lisa and her story with the cult, as I cannot wait to see where this story goes.
First and foremost, thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing and Luca Goodwill, the author, for this ARC!
This story had been utterly hooked from the get go. Lisa, the FMC, felt totally relatable, and this in turn lulled me into comfort and security being able to follow the story from her POV.
I’ve always had such a fascination with cults, and the way in which their leaders and followers are able to manage, manipulate, and ultimately control the mindsets and behaviours of new recruits.. and this story showed this with such clarity, and also compassion for Lisa and her turbulent emotions through the indoctrination process.
Some scenes I did audibly gasp at… like hello?? ADAM REALLY DID THAT??! The ups and downs of the story really had me on the edge of my seat at times and I really did not want to but it down.
I have only marked lower due to the way the story ended. It frustrated me how the safety Lisa thought she had secured wasn’t actually so, and her saviours actually were all part of the greater plan … very clever and I did not see this coming, but frustrating nonetheless. Her response also irked me… it just didn’t seem to match any of her beliefs and thoughts throughout (I can see where the author was trying to go with this, but it wasn’t clear enough to feel right, if that makes any sense?)
Either way, I really really hope this isn’t the end of Lisa and her story with the cult, as I cannot wait to see where this story goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This psychological thriller, recently devoured in one go, keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, unravelling the story in the most unexpected ways and delivering a tense, immersive experience. Hinging on a protagonist fleeing their past, catapulted into a world fraught with unknowns and surprises, is an enjoyable read. I’m yearning for deeper psychological insight and an immersive character study; the forthcoming sequels may provide the richer textures that this initial volume hints at. This book is the first in a series, and I am very eager to read the future instalments.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2026
The woman was too stunned to speak
June 23, 2026
★★★★☆
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Larva was one of those books that grabbed my attention immediately and refused to let go. I picked it up intending to read a little at a time, and before I knew it, I had finished the entire thing in one sitting. For me, that's always a good sign.
The story follows Lisa, a woman who feels trapped in a life that no longer has meaning. When she encounters a mysterious stranger offering her the chance for a completely different existence, she is faced with a choice that sounds tempting but comes with a cost she doesn't fully understand. What follows is a dark, unsettling journey that kept me curious from beginning to end.
One of the strongest aspects of this book was the pacing. There is very little downtime, and the story moves forward with purpose. Every chapter seemed to reveal something new or raise another question, making it difficult to put down. I constantly wanted to know where the story was heading and what would happen next.
I also loved the unsettling atmosphere that runs throughout the novel. There is a lingering sense that something isn't quite right, even in the quieter moments. The author does an excellent job creating tension without relying on constant action. Instead, much of the unease comes from uncertainty, anticipation, and the feeling that danger is always lurking just beneath the surface.
The central idea was fascinating. The concept of abandoning everything for a fresh start sounds appealing on the surface, but the story quickly explores how complicated that desire can become. It raises questions about identity, sacrifice, and whether escaping your life is ever truly possible. I found myself thinking about those themes long after I finished reading.
Lisa was easy to connect with because her struggles felt relatable. Even though her circumstances become increasingly strange, her desire for change and her dissatisfaction with her current life felt very real. Watching her navigate the consequences of her choices kept me invested throughout the story.
The ending left me wanting more, and I genuinely hope this isn't the last time we see this world. There is so much potential for additional stories, and I would absolutely pick up another book connected to it.
Overall, Larva is a fast-paced, thought-provoking, and unsettling read that blends psychological tension with deeper questions about identity and transformation. It kept me engaged from the first page to the last and delivered an experience that was both entertaining and memorable.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely. If you enjoy unsettling fiction, mysterious strangers, psychological tension, and stories that make you question how far someone would go for a chance at a different life, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Larva was one of those books that grabbed my attention immediately and refused to let go. I picked it up intending to read a little at a time, and before I knew it, I had finished the entire thing in one sitting. For me, that's always a good sign.
The story follows Lisa, a woman who feels trapped in a life that no longer has meaning. When she encounters a mysterious stranger offering her the chance for a completely different existence, she is faced with a choice that sounds tempting but comes with a cost she doesn't fully understand. What follows is a dark, unsettling journey that kept me curious from beginning to end.
One of the strongest aspects of this book was the pacing. There is very little downtime, and the story moves forward with purpose. Every chapter seemed to reveal something new or raise another question, making it difficult to put down. I constantly wanted to know where the story was heading and what would happen next.
I also loved the unsettling atmosphere that runs throughout the novel. There is a lingering sense that something isn't quite right, even in the quieter moments. The author does an excellent job creating tension without relying on constant action. Instead, much of the unease comes from uncertainty, anticipation, and the feeling that danger is always lurking just beneath the surface.
The central idea was fascinating. The concept of abandoning everything for a fresh start sounds appealing on the surface, but the story quickly explores how complicated that desire can become. It raises questions about identity, sacrifice, and whether escaping your life is ever truly possible. I found myself thinking about those themes long after I finished reading.
Lisa was easy to connect with because her struggles felt relatable. Even though her circumstances become increasingly strange, her desire for change and her dissatisfaction with her current life felt very real. Watching her navigate the consequences of her choices kept me invested throughout the story.
The ending left me wanting more, and I genuinely hope this isn't the last time we see this world. There is so much potential for additional stories, and I would absolutely pick up another book connected to it.
Overall, Larva is a fast-paced, thought-provoking, and unsettling read that blends psychological tension with deeper questions about identity and transformation. It kept me engaged from the first page to the last and delivered an experience that was both entertaining and memorable.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely. If you enjoy unsettling fiction, mysterious strangers, psychological tension, and stories that make you question how far someone would go for a chance at a different life, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐ 3.5 stars ⭐
Thank you NetGalley, Victory Editing and Luca Goodwill for the ARC.
I have many feelings on this book. Larva was a real deep dive into how easy it is to be influenced by a mind stronger than your own. Although there were times I was mentally shouting at Lisa, our main character, "DON'T LISTEN TO HIM, IT'S A CULT", it's really not difficult to see the appeal and reason behind Simon's words, especially with how logical and empathetic he was in almost every interaction. I can totally see how easy it was for her to be swept away with the love-bombing by him (and the others), that sense of belonging and feeling special being so immensely bright, blinding her judgement. As frustrated as I felt with some of her choices and behaviour, you can't help but feel bad for Lisa as she's clearly conflicted and brainwashed into this "haven", which rapidly spirals into a suffocating nightmare. The moment the narrative took a turn for the worse, it truly switched and became a psychological horror I was very much hooked by.
A couple issues I had that surfaced whilst reading this:
- I noticed there are a few times in the book where it felt like phrases/sentences were being repeated too often. I understand that sometimes it is required to make certain points prominent but I did not think they were necessary. Not too big of a concern, but just personally annoyed me as a reader
- The plot twist and ending. I have to admit, I was disappointed; it took a complete turn (not a bad thing!) however I don't know if landed in the way the author intended. I was already a bit irritated by Lisa's unstable hero complex and her decision to return after her escape, but then the reveal of the cult's origins and purpose felt a bit rushed and confusing. I understand that there will be a sequel and appreciate this could be a way to set up a cliffhanger for it, but I also wished it was saved for the beginning of the next one and giving it a proper introduction.
Overall, an enjoyable and captivating read with a front row seat to charismatic manipulation, misguided self-worth and cringe-worthy sacrifices.
Thank you NetGalley, Victory Editing and Luca Goodwill for the ARC.
I have many feelings on this book. Larva was a real deep dive into how easy it is to be influenced by a mind stronger than your own. Although there were times I was mentally shouting at Lisa, our main character, "DON'T LISTEN TO HIM, IT'S A CULT", it's really not difficult to see the appeal and reason behind Simon's words, especially with how logical and empathetic he was in almost every interaction. I can totally see how easy it was for her to be swept away with the love-bombing by him (and the others), that sense of belonging and feeling special being so immensely bright, blinding her judgement. As frustrated as I felt with some of her choices and behaviour, you can't help but feel bad for Lisa as she's clearly conflicted and brainwashed into this "haven", which rapidly spirals into a suffocating nightmare. The moment the narrative took a turn for the worse, it truly switched and became a psychological horror I was very much hooked by.
A couple issues I had that surfaced whilst reading this:
- I noticed there are a few times in the book where it felt like phrases/sentences were being repeated too often. I understand that sometimes it is required to make certain points prominent but I did not think they were necessary. Not too big of a concern, but just personally annoyed me as a reader
- The plot twist and ending. I have to admit, I was disappointed; it took a complete turn (not a bad thing!) however I don't know if landed in the way the author intended. I was already a bit irritated by Lisa's unstable hero complex and her decision to return after her escape, but then the reveal of the cult's origins and purpose felt a bit rushed and confusing. I understand that there will be a sequel and appreciate this could be a way to set up a cliffhanger for it, but I also wished it was saved for the beginning of the next one and giving it a proper introduction.
Overall, an enjoyable and captivating read with a front row seat to charismatic manipulation, misguided self-worth and cringe-worthy sacrifices.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2026
Rating: 4.5⭐
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Thank you @netgalley for the review copy.
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Synopsis:
Would you leave everything for a real change? Think twice. Running from your old life might be the most dangerous decision you'll ever make.
Lisa feels stuck in a life that no longer means anything to her. One night, while sitting alone in an abandoned park, she meets a stranger who offers her something she has been craving, a real escape, a fresh start. But there’s one condition: she must leave everything behind. What Lisa sees as freedom, he calls sacrifice.
.
I was hooked from the start. This was such a fast paced, thought provoking, and unsettling read.
.
It has everything I enjoy in a psychological thriller, suspense, creepy atmosphere, and that constant feeling that something is very wrong. I’ve always enjoyed cult thrillers, so this was right up my alley.
.
Some scenes involving Adam…ermmm hello?? I genuinely felt sick. I need to throw up. Those parts were disturbing.
.
I also found Lisa very relatable as a main character. I could understand her emotions, frustrations, and why she made certain decisions, which made the story even more intense.
.
And that ending…..I was stunned. I need more. I seriously need to know what happened after that.
.
Thank you @netgalley for the review copy.
.
Synopsis:
Would you leave everything for a real change? Think twice. Running from your old life might be the most dangerous decision you'll ever make.
Lisa feels stuck in a life that no longer means anything to her. One night, while sitting alone in an abandoned park, she meets a stranger who offers her something she has been craving, a real escape, a fresh start. But there’s one condition: she must leave everything behind. What Lisa sees as freedom, he calls sacrifice.
.
I was hooked from the start. This was such a fast paced, thought provoking, and unsettling read.
.
It has everything I enjoy in a psychological thriller, suspense, creepy atmosphere, and that constant feeling that something is very wrong. I’ve always enjoyed cult thrillers, so this was right up my alley.
.
Some scenes involving Adam…ermmm hello?? I genuinely felt sick. I need to throw up. Those parts were disturbing.
.
I also found Lisa very relatable as a main character. I could understand her emotions, frustrations, and why she made certain decisions, which made the story even more intense.
.
And that ending…..I was stunned. I need more. I seriously need to know what happened after that.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley and Luca Goodwill for this ARC!
4.5 stars from me.
Right from the beginning I could feel this was going to get twisty and I had no doubt I would not see the way it would end. So many times my internal monologue would be “well that’s a little creepy” “oh no this is giving cult vibes” “girl you are in DANGER!”. And while experiencing those thoughts I could also put myself in Lisa’s POV and how easy it was for her to be manipulated. I myself tend to chameleon to a point that I am very easy to influence and manipulate and not know who I really am.
Seeing that all play out on page almost felt like being seen. If the right person had found me could I be pulled into a cult with a smile of wonderment on my face? I think that is what makes the psychological aspects of this book really hit.
Now I did take away .5 star because while the ending was unexpected, it wasn’t the unexpected I expected and felt just a little rushed. Knowing that there will be another book helps but I think a little more fleshing out of the last page or two could really make this ka-pow. Either way my mind has been effed and my flabbers fully ghasted, so thank you for that!
4.5 stars from me.
Right from the beginning I could feel this was going to get twisty and I had no doubt I would not see the way it would end. So many times my internal monologue would be “well that’s a little creepy” “oh no this is giving cult vibes” “girl you are in DANGER!”. And while experiencing those thoughts I could also put myself in Lisa’s POV and how easy it was for her to be manipulated. I myself tend to chameleon to a point that I am very easy to influence and manipulate and not know who I really am.
Seeing that all play out on page almost felt like being seen. If the right person had found me could I be pulled into a cult with a smile of wonderment on my face? I think that is what makes the psychological aspects of this book really hit.
Now I did take away .5 star because while the ending was unexpected, it wasn’t the unexpected I expected and felt just a little rushed. Knowing that there will be another book helps but I think a little more fleshing out of the last page or two could really make this ka-pow. Either way my mind has been effed and my flabbers fully ghasted, so thank you for that!
June 7, 2026
Larva by Luca Goodwill is a hard to put down thriller that kept me guessing throughout. The story is unpredictable and full of misdirection, and the author skillfully develops the characters especially by creating a heroine in Lisa who is both flawed and valiant in equal measure. The supporting cast is equally well drawn, ranging from menacing and manipulative to genuinely sympathetic. My only reservation is the ending, which left some plot points unresolved. A little more resolution would have been satisfying while still leaving readers eager for the next installment. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys atmospheric thrillers with complex characters that keep you guessing until the final page.
July 10, 2026
This book is beautiful written. The imagery totally comes alive off the page and the eerie feelings never let up. The author writes this cautionary tale that follows the seduction of hope. How the need to belong clouds judgement and how easily it would be to fall prey when you’re at your lowest or stuck in the monotony of everyday life. I found myself screaming at the main character to make different choices but also respecting why she made those choices. This is a deeply conflicting book and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
July 31, 2026
Larva is a slow burn, deeply unsettling psychological thriller that hits you right in the nerves. The premise is instantly gripping. Lisa is drowning in a life that's lost all meaning when a stranger in a park makes her an impossible offer a complete reset, on the condition that she leaves her old identity behind entirely. What starts as a desperate hope for a fresh start quickly devolves into a nightmare of manipulation, obsession, and cult dynamics. The tension builds steadily, making you feel Lisa's claustrophobia as the trap closes around her.
Review of advance copy
Lava, the cocoon of life outside our understanding. Strip back layers of human conditioning and find ourselves
To discover ourselves and then the world.
Is this a journey of self discovery or a nightmare in the making?
Imagine your dull life, would you change it?
Control, mind games and pleasure, life is not always better, or is it.
Fabulous read.
To discover ourselves and then the world.
Is this a journey of self discovery or a nightmare in the making?
Imagine your dull life, would you change it?
Control, mind games and pleasure, life is not always better, or is it.
Fabulous read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The prologue had me hooked. Great development in describing the characters. You can tell he did his homework on the plot. Would be a great read for an airplane trip or for a lazy weekend.
The prologue had me hooked. Great development in describing the characters. You can tell he did his homework on the plot. Would be a great read for an airplane trip or for a lazy weekend.
June 15, 2026
Larva is an intense story with up and down events that leave you breathless. At times, I questioned if I wanted to finish it but kept on to see where this reading adventure was taking me. It certainly did not end up where I expected it to. Yikes, what a reading ride.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews