What do you think?
Carmen: A Sapphic Psychological Thriller
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
V.R. Vesper
2 books8 followersV.R. Vesper writes sapphic psychological thrillers about women who feel too much, think too much, and make the kind of decisions they'll spend the rest of the book justifying to themselves. The protagonists tend to be self-aware enough to recognize their worst impulses and reckless enough to follow them anyway.
Vesper is the author of Marked and Carmen. They are currently working on a new thriller that's making both Lisa and Delil—sorry, Carmen—look reasonable.
When not writing characters who spiral into obsession, Vesper is poorly managing their own problems. There are plenty.
Vesper is the author of Marked and Carmen. They are currently working on a new thriller that's making both Lisa and Delil—sorry, Carmen—look reasonable.
When not writing characters who spiral into obsession, Vesper is poorly managing their own problems. There are plenty.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Goshh!!!
I loved this book! But I think it’s important to add that I’m generally a person who adores a well written, well researched ballet book.
The story between ‘Carmen’ and Anna is incredibly emotional (and romantic) but at the same time feelings like jealousy and literal sabotage follow their story.
What I really liked though was the way the romance was depicted and how the author didn’t shy away from using these heavier themes (aka sabotage, isolation etc) and actually showed unhealthy dynamics too (such as ‘Carmen’s unhealthy obsession with the ballet piece with the same name).
Moreover, I really liked ‘Carmen’s’ character development throughout the novel, though I think some things felt a bit questionable given the fact that she was so steadfast in her character and role and then able to change ‘so fast’ in the end (here I think it’s important to add that I did like how one saw actual setbacks too). Besides that, I liked the writing and the overall story building too but wished we would’ve gotten even more insight into the ballet world (but that’s me being very nitpicky).
Overall though, I really liked the story. And I would totally recommend it if you’re a fan of ballet romances and like the psychological thriller aspect as well.
Goshh!!!
I loved this book! But I think it’s important to add that I’m generally a person who adores a well written, well researched ballet book.
The story between ‘Carmen’ and Anna is incredibly emotional (and romantic) but at the same time feelings like jealousy and literal sabotage follow their story.
What I really liked though was the way the romance was depicted and how the author didn’t shy away from using these heavier themes (aka sabotage, isolation etc) and actually showed unhealthy dynamics too (such as ‘Carmen’s unhealthy obsession with the ballet piece with the same name).
Moreover, I really liked ‘Carmen’s’ character development throughout the novel, though I think some things felt a bit questionable given the fact that she was so steadfast in her character and role and then able to change ‘so fast’ in the end (here I think it’s important to add that I did like how one saw actual setbacks too). Besides that, I liked the writing and the overall story building too but wished we would’ve gotten even more insight into the ballet world (but that’s me being very nitpicky).
Overall though, I really liked the story. And I would totally recommend it if you’re a fan of ballet romances and like the psychological thriller aspect as well.
July 4, 2026
This story has a lot of tropes, but combining them worked well in this concept.
I’ve experience a lot of different emotions while reading this book, I would say it’s been an emotional roller coaster!
The writing style is very good, expressive and fluent, easy to follow. The characters are at least interesting … you either care or hate them… but it can change during the read.
This book has surprised me in a positive way and in the future I’d like to read more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve experience a lot of different emotions while reading this book, I would say it’s been an emotional roller coaster!
The writing style is very good, expressive and fluent, easy to follow. The characters are at least interesting … you either care or hate them… but it can change during the read.
This book has surprised me in a positive way and in the future I’d like to read more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2026
Raw. Rigid. Unrelenting.
I read. A lot. And this is one that will stick with me for years. It’s so very raw. And real. And anxiety inducing in all the best ways.
What starts as a slow burn feels like a consistent sharp burn on your heart that starts almost immediately and stays with you well past the last sentence.
I absolutely loved this story. I love the characters. I love the vulnerability. This is one I’ll revisit many times over the coming years. Always with the same reverence.
I read. A lot. And this is one that will stick with me for years. It’s so very raw. And real. And anxiety inducing in all the best ways.
What starts as a slow burn feels like a consistent sharp burn on your heart that starts almost immediately and stays with you well past the last sentence.
I absolutely loved this story. I love the characters. I love the vulnerability. This is one I’ll revisit many times over the coming years. Always with the same reverence.
June 6, 2026
3.5 wow finished this in just a day V.R Vesper did it again!!! I can’t wait for more books revolving these days”dark” female characters I love it, and when Anna finally said her name out loud wow!!! 🙂↕️
Read
June 27, 2026Carmen was enjoyable to read and a good story line. I would recommend this book.
First time l have rad anything from this autor l will.read anything again by V R Vesper
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving
First time l have rad anything from this autor l will.read anything again by V R Vesper
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving
June 21, 2026
First, I want to thank NetGalley and the author for giving me an ARC of this book. I really do appreciate being entrusted with this.
Unfortunately, it would seem that this book is not for me. I really wanted to like this book, but I had to DNF at 35%. I tried to push through but after so many fragmented sentences and paragraph after paragraph that sounded suspiciously like AI, I just couldn’t do it.
Even at 35%, there were so many grammatical errors/typos, I could no longer ignore them. I thought at first that the fragmented sentences might be a way to create the FMC’s voice, but there were so many that I don’t think they were an intentional writing device; I fear it may have just been bad writing.
There were also so many strange parts of the dialogue or thoughts in the FMC’s head, too many things that did not make sense. For example, the phrase “Beyond it, a cook worked over steam with the focus of someone who took soup more seriously than most people took their careers.” Well, soup is his career…of course he takes it seriously! And how the FMC ate her entire birthday cake in protest for not getting pointe shoes…that just didn’t make sense. Why would parents cave and buy shoes over a child eating their birthday cake? It’s just…odd. These may seem like small things, but so many of these things and phrases kept piling on, I had to put the book down.
As an opera singer myself, I did enjoy reading about the ballet world and thought that some phrases that described the art were quite beautiful. I especially enjoyed the Carmen references as I am very familiar with the operatic version of Carmen. However, even that could not salvage this read for me in the end.
Unfortunately, it would seem that this book is not for me. I really wanted to like this book, but I had to DNF at 35%. I tried to push through but after so many fragmented sentences and paragraph after paragraph that sounded suspiciously like AI, I just couldn’t do it.
Even at 35%, there were so many grammatical errors/typos, I could no longer ignore them. I thought at first that the fragmented sentences might be a way to create the FMC’s voice, but there were so many that I don’t think they were an intentional writing device; I fear it may have just been bad writing.
There were also so many strange parts of the dialogue or thoughts in the FMC’s head, too many things that did not make sense. For example, the phrase “Beyond it, a cook worked over steam with the focus of someone who took soup more seriously than most people took their careers.” Well, soup is his career…of course he takes it seriously! And how the FMC ate her entire birthday cake in protest for not getting pointe shoes…that just didn’t make sense. Why would parents cave and buy shoes over a child eating their birthday cake? It’s just…odd. These may seem like small things, but so many of these things and phrases kept piling on, I had to put the book down.
As an opera singer myself, I did enjoy reading about the ballet world and thought that some phrases that described the art were quite beautiful. I especially enjoyed the Carmen references as I am very familiar with the operatic version of Carmen. However, even that could not salvage this read for me in the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Carmen delivers an engaging mix of emotion, tension, and character-driven storytelling. The atmosphere and writing style kept me invested from beginning to end, and while there were a few moments when I found the FMC too insufferable, overall this was a strong and memorable read.
I have to say, V.R. Vesper’s writing style is really starting to grow on me now that I’ve read both of her books. Her writing is immersive and easy to get lost in, and the pacing stayed consistently engaging, especially throughout the middle section.
What I especially enjoyed was how, despite this being a psychological thriller, and you definitely feel that tension through both the main character and the supporting cast, we also got the opportunity to explore the world of ballet, which is something I’m completely unfamiliar with. I loved the way those two worlds collided, adding so much more tension and drama to the story and making everything feel even more intense. I never knew when, or if, something was going to happen.
It was truly fascinating to see what dancers go through and the amount of dedication and sacrifice required to reach that level, especially in ballet. The book gave me an even greater respect for the world of dance.
Overall, Carmen was a compelling and enjoyable read that I'd definitely recommend to readers who enjoy emotional character arcs, drama, and immersive storytelling. I can't wait to see what V.R. Vesper comes out with next.
Carmen delivers an engaging mix of emotion, tension, and character-driven storytelling. The atmosphere and writing style kept me invested from beginning to end, and while there were a few moments when I found the FMC too insufferable, overall this was a strong and memorable read.
I have to say, V.R. Vesper’s writing style is really starting to grow on me now that I’ve read both of her books. Her writing is immersive and easy to get lost in, and the pacing stayed consistently engaging, especially throughout the middle section.
What I especially enjoyed was how, despite this being a psychological thriller, and you definitely feel that tension through both the main character and the supporting cast, we also got the opportunity to explore the world of ballet, which is something I’m completely unfamiliar with. I loved the way those two worlds collided, adding so much more tension and drama to the story and making everything feel even more intense. I never knew when, or if, something was going to happen.
It was truly fascinating to see what dancers go through and the amount of dedication and sacrifice required to reach that level, especially in ballet. The book gave me an even greater respect for the world of dance.
Overall, Carmen was a compelling and enjoyable read that I'd definitely recommend to readers who enjoy emotional character arcs, drama, and immersive storytelling. I can't wait to see what V.R. Vesper comes out with next.
June 3, 2026
🩰🪞💔ARC REVIEW: Carmen by V.R. Vesper
I read “Carmen” as my first ever ARC and I am so excited it is officially out in the world!
“Carmen” follows two women in their competitive journey through the world of ballet, both with their own outlook on how to achieve greatness. The coveted role of “Carmen” was expected to fall to the long-standing studio leading lady, but everything changes when a new ballerina walks in the door. The new girl is intriguing in more ways than one, and the women find themselves pushing the boundaries of friends, competitors, and even lovers.
“Carmen” features very little dialogue, focusing mostly on the internal thoughts of the leading lady of the studio. V.R. Vesper captures readers in the mind of the narrator, truly making them share space with her paranoia and anxiety. This book is full of tension and will have you questioning everything. These two ladies are TOXIC which made for an entertaining read.
The little dialogue and lots of ballet jargon upfront was challenging to get through. It was a writing style I found myself skimming through at times. While it lends itself well to making readers understand the characters obsessive state of mind, there were lots of details of aching body parts and specific ballet elements that had me tune out from time to time.
If you’re into dark, twisted, psychological thrillers, “Carmen” can offer some twists and crazy moments! Thank you to Netgalley, and V.R. Vesper for the opportunity to read this eARC!
I read “Carmen” as my first ever ARC and I am so excited it is officially out in the world!
“Carmen” follows two women in their competitive journey through the world of ballet, both with their own outlook on how to achieve greatness. The coveted role of “Carmen” was expected to fall to the long-standing studio leading lady, but everything changes when a new ballerina walks in the door. The new girl is intriguing in more ways than one, and the women find themselves pushing the boundaries of friends, competitors, and even lovers.
“Carmen” features very little dialogue, focusing mostly on the internal thoughts of the leading lady of the studio. V.R. Vesper captures readers in the mind of the narrator, truly making them share space with her paranoia and anxiety. This book is full of tension and will have you questioning everything. These two ladies are TOXIC which made for an entertaining read.
The little dialogue and lots of ballet jargon upfront was challenging to get through. It was a writing style I found myself skimming through at times. While it lends itself well to making readers understand the characters obsessive state of mind, there were lots of details of aching body parts and specific ballet elements that had me tune out from time to time.
If you’re into dark, twisted, psychological thrillers, “Carmen” can offer some twists and crazy moments! Thank you to Netgalley, and V.R. Vesper for the opportunity to read this eARC!
June 28, 2026
Carmen is a psychological thriller revolving around two women vying for the prima ballerina spot for the company's adaptation of Carmen.
The story goes about with a dreary and lengthy monologue of 'Carmen' the FMC, whose real name is hardly ever spoken aloud. There was very little or no actual conversation with anyone else except for Anna and that is mostly one line sentences and the rest of the conversation if any, is provided by 'Carmen' through her monologue.
The pacing was extremely slow for me and I struggled to keep my attention on the story. Besides that, each chapter's story progression was reasonably predictable and there really wasn't anything much happening anyway.
The story did not stir up feelings of anticipation, suspense or tension but instead the feeling rising up was boredom. Even as the pace and tone of the last few chapters shifted slightly, it did not provide the satisfaction expected or perhaps, hoped for.
"Carmen' was someone very unlikeable. She was distant, arrogant and spiteful, feeling overly entitled and blaming everyone for her misfortune except herself.
The conclusion was inconclusive because we really don't know what Anna's real intention was since all we're ever given is 'Carmen''s perpetual monologue. And the glass issue was never really explained or resolved.
In summary it was a good story and I did quite enjoy it but it wasn't the best and I was dragging my feet to finish it.
I received a free copy from Booksprouts.
The story goes about with a dreary and lengthy monologue of 'Carmen' the FMC, whose real name is hardly ever spoken aloud. There was very little or no actual conversation with anyone else except for Anna and that is mostly one line sentences and the rest of the conversation if any, is provided by 'Carmen' through her monologue.
The pacing was extremely slow for me and I struggled to keep my attention on the story. Besides that, each chapter's story progression was reasonably predictable and there really wasn't anything much happening anyway.
The story did not stir up feelings of anticipation, suspense or tension but instead the feeling rising up was boredom. Even as the pace and tone of the last few chapters shifted slightly, it did not provide the satisfaction expected or perhaps, hoped for.
"Carmen' was someone very unlikeable. She was distant, arrogant and spiteful, feeling overly entitled and blaming everyone for her misfortune except herself.
The conclusion was inconclusive because we really don't know what Anna's real intention was since all we're ever given is 'Carmen''s perpetual monologue. And the glass issue was never really explained or resolved.
In summary it was a good story and I did quite enjoy it but it wasn't the best and I was dragging my feet to finish it.
I received a free copy from Booksprouts.
July 7, 2026
Carmen: A Sapphic Psychological Thriller by V. R. Vesper is a strange work, in terms of plot it resembles a memoir of a ballerina obsessed with her idea of breaking through on the big stage, after experiencing physical trauma. The book is mainly built in monologue with minimalist dialogues with her opponent, with the main focus being on the emotions and thoughts of the main character. This is an Enemies to Lovers story that follows the metamorphosis of the star in the small ballet company and her dance duel against the new addition to the team, who is beautiful, talented and the main contender for the role of Carmen in the ballet production of the same name. The author has presented the emotional torment of the heroine well, and although my personal taste tends to be towards less introspective monologues, the book was easy to read and kept my attention until the end. If you like emotional reads and a memoir is not out of your reading menu, you will like the book.
July 1, 2026
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of
Carmen
by
V. R. Vesper
through Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
Carmen is an engaging sapphic psychological thriller that perfectly captures the competitive, high-pressure world of professional ballet.
The pacing is strong and keeps the story moving at an exhilarating clip. I especially enjoyed seeing the dedication required for ballet collide with the darker, psychological aspects of the plot.
The writing is evocative and paints a vivid picture of the physical and mental toll these characters endure. It’s a fascinating look at what happens when two people are trained never to be the first to quit.
A strong, memorable read for those who enjoy complex, morally grey protagonists.
Carmen is an engaging sapphic psychological thriller that perfectly captures the competitive, high-pressure world of professional ballet.
The pacing is strong and keeps the story moving at an exhilarating clip. I especially enjoyed seeing the dedication required for ballet collide with the darker, psychological aspects of the plot.
The writing is evocative and paints a vivid picture of the physical and mental toll these characters endure. It’s a fascinating look at what happens when two people are trained never to be the first to quit.
A strong, memorable read for those who enjoy complex, morally grey protagonists.
Review of advance copy
Meet a dancer in a ballet company that has been her home for years. It’s HER home because no one is as good as her, and she makes sue everyone knows it. Her actual name doesn’t matter… she wants the role of Carmen, and nothing else matters.
Anna walks in- a cool, confident dancer. Is she going to be Carmen? What will SHE have to do to make sure the role is HERS?
A great thriller. A story of how much someone is willing to give up to achieve their dream, but was the dream the role of Carmen, or happiness at last? A fantastic novel.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Anna walks in- a cool, confident dancer. Is she going to be Carmen? What will SHE have to do to make sure the role is HERS?
A great thriller. A story of how much someone is willing to give up to achieve their dream, but was the dream the role of Carmen, or happiness at last? A fantastic novel.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 12, 2026
Thanks Booksprout for the free ARC! I really enjoyed this novel… the protagonist’s mental undoing was quite entertaining. I would definitely say this is a psychologically thrilling novel based on ambition and obsession. I would recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2026
That was insane - I really thought she was going to drink that tea.
August 11, 2026
Honestly this book wasn't bad at all. I thought I wasn't going to enjoy it because of the writing style but I quite enjoyed this book. I'm one for the dialogue, but this book was so well written it really didn't need it. Will have to look into her other books for sure!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews