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Into Oblivion: A Modernized Retelling of the Tale of Medusa
“With every second I spent around these people, I was less concerned about otherworldly, unexplainable shit in the woods and way more concerned about the fucking monsters parading around town as humans.”
Everyone in Echo Rock, West Virginia knows there’s something out there. When you live in these mountains, you learn to accept the inexplicable things that are just part of life. To an outsider, though, finding a place within the secluded mountain town feels far more sinister than taking your chances with whatever lies beyond the edge of civilization.
After a string of unsolved disappearances spanning half a decade, U.S. Park Ranger Breylan Jones accepts a national park job in the wilds of West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains. He knows it won’t be easy; the previous ranger to hold the position is among Echo Rock’s lengthy list of missing persons; all of whom are assumed dead from the elements, wildlife, or any number of phenomena making these particular mountains uniquely dangerous.
As the new Fed in town, Breylan has questions the locals seem to avoid answering. The more he learns about the missing, the less he understands the town’s complacency. They seem to have just accepted an evil entity in the woods has claimed their loved ones, leaving no hope of finding even a single person. But Breylan’s a man of logic and law. He’s unwilling to accept that something inhumane in the woods is to be blamed for the presumed deaths of countless people.
Convinced there’s no evil on the planet worse than man, Breylan ignores the town officials’ resistance and ventures beyond the borders of Echo Rock in search of answers. What he finds will bring him to the edge of his own sanity. Sometimes the truth is more damning than the worst lie.
Into Oblivion is a modernized retelling of the tale of Medusa. This standalone dark romance features a dual perspective and is intended for readers eighteen years of age and older. Trigger/content warnings can be found within the first pages of the book. Please read and understand them before venturing further.
Everyone in Echo Rock, West Virginia knows there’s something out there. When you live in these mountains, you learn to accept the inexplicable things that are just part of life. To an outsider, though, finding a place within the secluded mountain town feels far more sinister than taking your chances with whatever lies beyond the edge of civilization.
After a string of unsolved disappearances spanning half a decade, U.S. Park Ranger Breylan Jones accepts a national park job in the wilds of West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains. He knows it won’t be easy; the previous ranger to hold the position is among Echo Rock’s lengthy list of missing persons; all of whom are assumed dead from the elements, wildlife, or any number of phenomena making these particular mountains uniquely dangerous.
As the new Fed in town, Breylan has questions the locals seem to avoid answering. The more he learns about the missing, the less he understands the town’s complacency. They seem to have just accepted an evil entity in the woods has claimed their loved ones, leaving no hope of finding even a single person. But Breylan’s a man of logic and law. He’s unwilling to accept that something inhumane in the woods is to be blamed for the presumed deaths of countless people.
Convinced there’s no evil on the planet worse than man, Breylan ignores the town officials’ resistance and ventures beyond the borders of Echo Rock in search of answers. What he finds will bring him to the edge of his own sanity. Sometimes the truth is more damning than the worst lie.
Into Oblivion is a modernized retelling of the tale of Medusa. This standalone dark romance features a dual perspective and is intended for readers eighteen years of age and older. Trigger/content warnings can be found within the first pages of the book. Please read and understand them before venturing further.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2026
About the author
Ember Nicole
7 books214 followersEmber Nicole crawled directly out of the fiery pits of hell and setup camp in the cornfields of Indiana to begin her writing career.
Now, you’re all plagued with her existence in your realm.
She might have a family.
Maybe even a pet.
But that’s none of your concern.
Mind your own business.
Ember rules as the chaos queen over her intense fan base of Heathen readers.
She lives on coffee (as long as it is not f’ing iced coffee), thrives on the emotional upheaval of her beloved Heathens, and writes in peace to the melodious screams of the condemned souls in her precious cornfields.
Find her on:
Instagram: @embernicole.author
TikTok: @embernicole.author
Facebook Reader Group: Ember Nicole’s Bad Ashes
Now, you’re all plagued with her existence in your realm.
She might have a family.
Maybe even a pet.
But that’s none of your concern.
Mind your own business.
Ember rules as the chaos queen over her intense fan base of Heathen readers.
She lives on coffee (as long as it is not f’ing iced coffee), thrives on the emotional upheaval of her beloved Heathens, and writes in peace to the melodious screams of the condemned souls in her precious cornfields.
Find her on:
Instagram: @embernicole.author
TikTok: @embernicole.author
Facebook Reader Group: Ember Nicole’s Bad Ashes
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 22, 2026
An absolute masterpiece of storytelling!! This book was so freaking good and left me wanting MORE MORE MORE! The modern retelling of Medusa was such a unique and refreshing take. The FMC was so easy to root for and SO strong…and the MMC was a dreamy & steamy man 😏 the small town horrors and the wildness of the Appalachians were so well written and I went through a rollercoaster of emotions throughout! A huge thank you to Ember for giving me to opportunity to arc read this, it was so memorable and I loved it! 😍
June 26, 2026
This was another Ember classic. I raged, I sobbed, I wanted more. This story highlights the evil of man using the medusa myth to protect Rhiannon once she escapes hell.
June 25, 2026
Medusa but make her bratty.
I’m so in love with it all. The characters - unhinged but lovable. The story - enthralling. The writing, the tone, all of it was perfect. Ember will always be an auto-read author for me, and this story of simmering feminine rage and a man secure enough to let her pop off is a prime example of why.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I’m so in love with it all. The characters - unhinged but lovable. The story - enthralling. The writing, the tone, all of it was perfect. Ember will always be an auto-read author for me, and this story of simmering feminine rage and a man secure enough to let her pop off is a prime example of why.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 4, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love Greek mythology, so when I saw this was a modern Medusa retelling, I jumped to read it. I really struggled with it. The story was not at all what I was expecting. It was more of a horror/mystery/thriller that just happened to have a Gorgon-esque creature. Calling it a Medusa retelling is really grasping at straws. The only similarities were the snakes in the hair. I know the point was likely feminine power and rising above the rules of men, but the myth was nothing like that. Medusa was beautiful and wanted by many, but she was a priestess who got caught her fooling around with Poseidon in the goddess' sacred temple. Medusa was cursed to become so grotesque that anyone who looked directly into her gaze would be turned to stone. It had nothing to do with good vs evil. Medusa was scorned, so she took it out on everyone.
The FMC Rhiannon was scorned by man and cursed by a witch, but that is where the similarities end. The snakes are not always present, and she keeps her beauty. She punishes only evil doers. Breylan was an odd MMC. His character was charming in an annoying sense. I enjoy sarcasm as much as the next person, but I can only take so many dad jokes. His character got significantly more tolerable as he made the jump to protector/hero. He was the saving grace of the book.
Their relationship felt so forced. I felt no chemistry at all. I like a good hate/enemies to lovers trope, but this was pushing the boundaries a little. It was like he would try and talk, they would argue, she ignored him or was incredibly rude, he tried to talk some more then they finally just said f-it no more talking let's screw. Don't get me wrong the sex scenes were hot, but they were somewhat ill-timed and overused to push along a flailing plot.
As a side note- I would have liked it better if there hadn't been so much focus on how disproportionate the FMC made the MMC out to be. She quite literally mocked his appearance and judged him but was angry when others did it to her. It was bully behavior and very hypocritical considering her views toward the town folk. I will note that she did became more understanding and tolerable later in the book, but it was well over the 60% mark.
The writing was choppy and immature at times, that I found it hard to keep going. The whole Deliverance style plot of the backwards town folk was creepy and didn't really fit in with the myth retelling. The setting seemed super out of place. Even the villian(s) got jipped on their arc.
The magic and folklore had such potential but were so underutilized, and the prine example of that was the snakes. They were judge, jury, and executioner. Sorry Charlie you punched a deviant who was up to nefarious things, you're a garden gnome now. WTF? There was just so much going on in so many many directions. I think the story would have been better if there was more cohesion.
The ending ft unfinished and was ultimately why I downgraded my rating from a 4 stars to 3 stars. It was a total copout without closure. Like you want people to read this book but you go and do that? It's like giving them the middle finger. The epilogue started off as a sweet view into the months following the events in the book, but it ended up being even more vague. It felt totally deliberate, and as a reader I was not appreciative considering I was led to believe that this book was going to end a certain way. It was definitely not an HEA, but more of an HFN. I am okay with that if I am aware in advance. I truly hope that the author in the future takes their editors and readers opinions into account more because it ultimately led me to downgrade my rating.
I love Greek mythology, so when I saw this was a modern Medusa retelling, I jumped to read it. I really struggled with it. The story was not at all what I was expecting. It was more of a horror/mystery/thriller that just happened to have a Gorgon-esque creature. Calling it a Medusa retelling is really grasping at straws. The only similarities were the snakes in the hair. I know the point was likely feminine power and rising above the rules of men, but the myth was nothing like that. Medusa was beautiful and wanted by many, but she was a priestess who got caught her fooling around with Poseidon in the goddess' sacred temple. Medusa was cursed to become so grotesque that anyone who looked directly into her gaze would be turned to stone. It had nothing to do with good vs evil. Medusa was scorned, so she took it out on everyone.
The FMC Rhiannon was scorned by man and cursed by a witch, but that is where the similarities end. The snakes are not always present, and she keeps her beauty. She punishes only evil doers. Breylan was an odd MMC. His character was charming in an annoying sense. I enjoy sarcasm as much as the next person, but I can only take so many dad jokes. His character got significantly more tolerable as he made the jump to protector/hero. He was the saving grace of the book.
Their relationship felt so forced. I felt no chemistry at all. I like a good hate/enemies to lovers trope, but this was pushing the boundaries a little. It was like he would try and talk, they would argue, she ignored him or was incredibly rude, he tried to talk some more then they finally just said f-it no more talking let's screw. Don't get me wrong the sex scenes were hot, but they were somewhat ill-timed and overused to push along a flailing plot.
As a side note- I would have liked it better if there hadn't been so much focus on how disproportionate the FMC made the MMC out to be. She quite literally mocked his appearance and judged him but was angry when others did it to her. It was bully behavior and very hypocritical considering her views toward the town folk. I will note that she did became more understanding and tolerable later in the book, but it was well over the 60% mark.
The writing was choppy and immature at times, that I found it hard to keep going. The whole Deliverance style plot of the backwards town folk was creepy and didn't really fit in with the myth retelling. The setting seemed super out of place. Even the villian(s) got jipped on their arc.
The magic and folklore had such potential but were so underutilized, and the prine example of that was the snakes. They were judge, jury, and executioner. Sorry Charlie you punched a deviant who was up to nefarious things, you're a garden gnome now. WTF? There was just so much going on in so many many directions. I think the story would have been better if there was more cohesion.
The ending ft unfinished and was ultimately why I downgraded my rating from a 4 stars to 3 stars. It was a total copout without closure. Like you want people to read this book but you go and do that? It's like giving them the middle finger. The epilogue started off as a sweet view into the months following the events in the book, but it ended up being even more vague. It felt totally deliberate, and as a reader I was not appreciative considering I was led to believe that this book was going to end a certain way. It was definitely not an HEA, but more of an HFN. I am okay with that if I am aware in advance. I truly hope that the author in the future takes their editors and readers opinions into account more because it ultimately led me to downgrade my rating.
July 20, 2026
I didn’t think I needed a Medusa retelling in my life until this baby landed on my kindle but let me tell you this one hit the spot!
Ember has a way of telling dark stories that tickle a part of my brain. And this was no different. It comes with a whole heap of triggers warnings so prepare yourself if you do take a trip into the Appalachian Mountains.
Rhiannon has been through so much (which tbh is an understatement of the century!) and is the embodiment of feminine rage. She lives through the horrific side effects of her curse but knows how to survive. It doesn’t break her but makes her stronger.
Breylan seems to be the exception to the rule at least that what it starts of being. He is only there to solve the mystery of the people who are going missing. But when he meets Rhiannon there is something that won’t let her go. He is determine to put things right.
Their relationship is a slow burn that is intertwined with their complex, volatile attraction to one another and balances the mythological foundations of the story. Couple that with the ending and I am on my knees begging for book 2!
4.25 stars
Ember has a way of telling dark stories that tickle a part of my brain. And this was no different. It comes with a whole heap of triggers warnings so prepare yourself if you do take a trip into the Appalachian Mountains.
Rhiannon has been through so much (which tbh is an understatement of the century!) and is the embodiment of feminine rage. She lives through the horrific side effects of her curse but knows how to survive. It doesn’t break her but makes her stronger.
Breylan seems to be the exception to the rule at least that what it starts of being. He is only there to solve the mystery of the people who are going missing. But when he meets Rhiannon there is something that won’t let her go. He is determine to put things right.
Their relationship is a slow burn that is intertwined with their complex, volatile attraction to one another and balances the mythological foundations of the story. Couple that with the ending and I am on my knees begging for book 2!
4.25 stars
July 22, 2026
Into Oblivion is a full send, beautifully executed, modern day retelling of Medusa. If you're new to this author, welcome! Ember is who I refer to as the Matriach of Darkness. EN is also referred to as the Heathen Mother, Tictac's Most Problematic 🍑, a connoisseur of anonymity, the Witchiest Witch, and a true wordsmith.
Rhi and Brey are sure to thaw even the iciest of hearts. While Echo Rock is a toxic plague of a town, somehow these two souls find solace through nature, ultimately leading them to one another. Don't go into this thinking it'll be a fluffy, light read. EN explores darker themes in her stories, and this book is no exception. If this story interests you, here's what you're in for: MCs deadset on righting wrongs through any means necessary, the occult, small-minded people in a backwoods town, and some delicious banter between our MCs. The story DOES NOT disappoint, and I can confirm there will be emotional turmoil. Tears are the currency we pay for Mother's stories.. 😭
Rhi and Brey are sure to thaw even the iciest of hearts. While Echo Rock is a toxic plague of a town, somehow these two souls find solace through nature, ultimately leading them to one another. Don't go into this thinking it'll be a fluffy, light read. EN explores darker themes in her stories, and this book is no exception. If this story interests you, here's what you're in for: MCs deadset on righting wrongs through any means necessary, the occult, small-minded people in a backwoods town, and some delicious banter between our MCs. The story DOES NOT disappoint, and I can confirm there will be emotional turmoil. Tears are the currency we pay for Mother's stories.. 😭
July 26, 2026
Ember strikes again with a book that not only drips with feminine rage but also puts enough emotional damage in it to hit you like a semi truck. This was better than anything I could’ve imagined coming from her brain and it just reiterates why she was always be an auto buy author and one of my top favorite authors. The chaos she created in this book was top tier just like both her MMC and FMC. There is nothing about this book that I didn’t absolutely love. You can also feel the amount of emotion she put into this book just like her others and it just pulls you in even more. I loved that she highlighted on being a woman when it’s not easy and unforgiving most of the time. It’s one of the many reasons why I love Ember as a person and as an author. If you’re looking for a Medusa retelling that is set in West Virginia’s Appalachian mountains and all things monsters and other things that go bump in the night then this is for you!
July 21, 2026
I want to start off by saying, I’ve never read this author before. But when I dare this come up as an ARC, I was all over it. Hope could I not be. The name, the cover. It was a must. And I was not disappointed. This story played beautifully on the Folklore of the Appalachians, and the mythology of Medusa. Mixing them together was a wild ride of perfection. I loved Rhi, she was fierce and told it like it was. And Brey let her have that lol. But this was such an intriguing story that pulled me in right from the beginning. Entering was weaved together so beautifully. Keeping me engaged from beginning to end. Awesome twists and turns. And that ending left me wanting more. This is an absolute must for yourTBR.
July 21, 2026
I'm honestly offended that 5 stars is the limit on these review platforms. How rude.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME EMBER?!
WHAT THE HELL?!
The absolute rollercoaster that this book just took me on. I DON'T EVEN LIKE ROLLERCOASTERS!
Literal perfection. Rhiannon was broken, terrified, isolated, angry (as she fucking should be), but still literally so damn brave, and honestly fucking hilarious.
Breylan. Just, no notes. All men should be men written by women. The banter between Brey and Rhiannon deserves an award.
I laughed, I cried, I was damn terrified half the time, and I need a cold shower.
I'm devastated in the best way possible. Top read of 2026. I will take no criticism.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME EMBER?!
WHAT THE HELL?!
The absolute rollercoaster that this book just took me on. I DON'T EVEN LIKE ROLLERCOASTERS!
Literal perfection. Rhiannon was broken, terrified, isolated, angry (as she fucking should be), but still literally so damn brave, and honestly fucking hilarious.
Breylan. Just, no notes. All men should be men written by women. The banter between Brey and Rhiannon deserves an award.
I laughed, I cried, I was damn terrified half the time, and I need a cold shower.
I'm devastated in the best way possible. Top read of 2026. I will take no criticism.
August 2, 2026
Woah…. This book is not at all what I expected but in a good way! Ember has this way of story telling that sucks you in, keeps you intrigued and somehow takes a piece of your soul by the end. (She’s magical like that). This book had me questioning my sanity, giving me nightmares but had me coming back for more. My biggest fear has always been the Appalachian’s. This story of the creatures that live within it is devastating, full of hard truths, & may or may not be filled with some badass women. I’m so intrigued for the next book in this world because I have so so so many questions and in true ember fashion she left us wanting more 😈
July 22, 2026
**𝓝𝓞 𝓢𝓟𝓞𝓘𝓛𝓔𝓡𝓢**
⚜️𝔻𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕠𝕗- Into Oblivion
⚜️ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤-
(out of 5 stars, my rating scale is at the end)
* 📚 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / 5
* 🌡️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 MF 🌶🌶🌶 / 5 -𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑐𝑘 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑦 𝐺𝑜𝑜𝑑𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑠 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑑𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠
* Which books have I also given this same rating? (𝑠𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑚𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑦𝑙𝑒𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑜𝑤𝑛)
5⭐️ Fourth wing / Bound by inked flame / Anathama / The Lies of Lena / Of silver and Curses
4.5⭐️ Bitten / The Female / Quicksilver / Bride / Lights Out / A Bargain so Bloody
4⭐️ Spellcaster / One Dark Window / From Blood and Ash / Phantasma / Butcher & Blackbird
3⭐️We Who Will Die / The Wolf King / Daughter of No Worlds / The Ex Hex
⚜️𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕀𝕟𝕗𝕠:
* Genre- Dark Fantasy
* 📖 403 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
* Dual 𝗣𝗢𝗩
* 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲- July 20, 2026
* 𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 or 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 driven? 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒶𝒸𝓉ℯ𝓇
* 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼- Standalone
* 𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 on 𝗞𝗨? ✅𝒴ℯ𝓈
* 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗲- 𝓌ℯ𝓁𝓁 𝓅𝒶𝒸ℯ𝒹 𝒻ℴ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓈𝓉ℴ𝓇𝓎
* 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲? ✅𝒴ℯ𝓈, ℐ 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇ℯ𝓂ℯ𝓂𝒷ℯ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓋𝒾𝒷ℯ𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒻ℯℯ𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝓁ℯ𝒻𝓉 𝓂ℯ 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 & ℐ𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇ℯ𝓂ℯ𝓂𝒷ℯ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒶𝒸𝓉ℯ𝓇𝓈 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 ℯ𝒶𝓈ℯ
* 𝐀𝐧𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧? (Disability, plus size, mental health etc...)✅ trauma
* ℳℴℴ𝒹𝓈; 𝑬𝒎𝒐𝒕𝑖𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍, 𝑴𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒌, 𝑻𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆, 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈
* 𝒟𝒾𝒹 𝒾 ℯ𝓃𝒿ℴ𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈?✅
* 𝒲𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓃ℯ𝓍𝓉 𝒷ℴℴ𝓀 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓈ℯ𝓇𝒾ℯ𝓈?✅
* 𝒲ℴ𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝒶𝓃𝓎𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 ℯ𝓁𝓈ℯ 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒶𝓊𝓉𝒽ℴ𝓇?✅
* 𝖂𝖍𝖔 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖎 𝖗𝖊𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖙𝖔? Those who love Greek mythology and those who love a truly dark feminine rage story with hot and heavy primal play spice!
🚨🅲︎🅷︎🅴︎🅲︎🅺︎ 🆃︎🅷︎🅴︎ 🆃︎🆆︎!🚨
⚜️𝕊ℙ𝔼ℂ𝕀𝔼𝕊 𝕀ℕ 𝕊𝕋𝕆ℝ𝕐:
💋𝐻𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑠
🧙♀️𝔚𝔦𝔱𝔠𝔥𝔢𝔰
👹𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘
⚜️𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖 𝔽𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕤:
🔥𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧
🥵𝒟𝒾𝓇𝓉𝓎 𝒯𝒶𝓁𝓀
🙏𝐻𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑠 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡
⚜️𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊
🏛️𝑀𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑠/𝐿𝑒𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔
🪦𝕳𝖔𝖗𝖗𝖔𝖗 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖘
🍭𝕊𝕦𝕟𝕟𝕪 𝕍 𝔾𝕣𝕦𝕞𝕡𝕪
🏹𝐁𝐚𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐌𝐂
🤬 Feminine Rage
🥊 Revenge
⏳𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐞𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬
✨ TᕼᗴᗰᗴՏ ✨
Modern Medusa retelling
📝Cliff Notes Review-
Into Oblivion completely captivated me with its haunting Appalachian setting, dark Medusa retelling, incredible atmosphere, unforgettable characters, and perfectly paced slow-burn romance. Rhiannon’s journey through trauma and feminine rage was powerful, and the spice was just as emotionally charged as it was steamy. My biggest struggle was the writing style, as too many mysteries, characters, and pieces of lore felt underexplored or left open to interpretation, leaving me with more confusion than satisfaction. Even so, this was a beautifully dark and unforgettable read.
🌍 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘:
Into Oblivion is one of those books that’s incredibly difficult for me to rate because I genuinely loved so much about it… while simultaneously struggling with the way it was told.
The premise completely hooked me. A dark Medusa retelling set deep within the Appalachian Mountains, blending mythology, folklore, mystery, horror and romance? It sounded like everything I love in a fantasy romance.
And honestly… the atmosphere was phenomenal.
Ember Nicole clearly has an incredible talent for writing darkness that feels almost tangible. The Appalachian setting is haunting, eerie and oppressive, creating this constant feeling that something is lurking just beyond the trees. The supernatural elements, folklore and creeping sense of unease were some of my favourite parts of the entire novel.
The spice deserves its own mention because… wow. It was incredibly well written. Emotional, intense and perfectly placed within the story.
Where I struggled was with the writing style itself.
I completely understand what I think the author was trying to achieve. There is a deliberate sense of uncertainty running through the entire novel. Information is withheld, events are left open to interpretation, and you’re never entirely sure whether what you’re reading can be trusted. It creates an unsettling atmosphere that absolutely fits the tone of the story.
Unfortunately, I’m the kind of reader who needs answers.
I like mysteries, but I also like enough breadcrumbs that I can begin piecing things together as I read. Instead, I often found myself feeling confused rather than intrigued because so many ideas, characters and pieces of history felt only partially explored. -The witch is probably the best example of this for me. She fascinated me from the moment she appeared, but by the end I felt like I understood her less than when she was first introduced. Her role, particularly during the final quarter of the book, I waited for her to round with warnings and threats, or to start cleaning up the mess but it never came, so that left me with so many questions. I really kept expecting certain moments to be explained or expanded upon, especially considering the magic involved, but instead those questions remained unanswered.
The wider mythology also left me wanting more. The other creatures and legends for example. The foundations are fantastic, but I wanted richer lore, more history, and more explanation about how everything fit together. I could see the potential for something enormous, yet I often felt like I was only being shown fragments of the bigger picture.
My feelings about the ending are equally conflicted.
The revenge itself was incredibly satisfying, and there were several twists that genuinely caught me off guard. The final revelations added another layer of tragedy to the story and completely changed how I viewed certain characters.
…However, I expected something slightly different from Rhiannon’s final arc. -After everything she’d endured, I thought her journey would become not only about revenge, but also about protecting and supporting other women who had suffered similar horrors. Instead, the conclusion leaned much more towards karmic justice than emotional healing. It certainly worked within the story, but I personally found myself longing for moments where victims felt seen, heard and understood, rather than simply avenged.
I also would have appreciated a little more closure. There were conversations I desperately wanted to happen, truths I wanted openly acknowledged, and confessions I felt would have made the emotional payoff even stronger.
This book stayed with me long after I finished it, and I genuinely admire what Ember Nicole created here. Her ability to write haunting atmosphere, emotionally scarred yet compelling characters, feminine rage, unsettling magic and addictive slow-burn romance is undeniable.
This was my first book by Ember Nicole, and although the writing style didn’t completely work for me, I’m absolutely interested in reading another of her books. I’m curious to see whether this fragmented, mysterious style was a deliberate choice for this particular story or simply her natural writing voice.
🧝♂️ ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤:
Rhiannon was easily my favourite part of the book. Everything she survives is horrific, and yet she never loses the fierce determination to keep going. She embodies feminine rage without allowing her trauma to completely define her. I loved watching her reclaim pieces of herself, even when her journey was painful, messy and devastating.
I struggled slightly with Rhiannon’s emotional journey surrounding intimacy. Considering everything she’d endured, I personally found some of the intimate scenes difficult to reconcile with her previous trauma. I wanted a little more exploration of how she reached that point emotionally because it felt like an important part of her healing journey.
Breylan was another highlight for me. His determination to uncover the truth and protect those around him made him incredibly easy to root for, and I loved that, despite arriving as an outsider, he seemed to care more about the people in this town than many of those who had lived there their entire lives.
Their romance was exactly the pace I enjoy. Slow-burning, full of tension, reluctant attraction and chemistry that simmered beneath every interaction. Even with the heavy themes surrounding the story, their connection provided moments of warmth that stopped the darkness from becoming overwhelming.
The side characters were so interesting, and the villains were also well written. I was drawn in immediately as all the characters we met had an important role to play in the story, no one was ‘stuck’ in the story for the sake of it. They all had a purpose and fulfilled it extremely well.
😥 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤?
I just couldn’t get along with the writing style and open questions.
⏳ 𝕎𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕚 𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕠𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕕?
Absolutely I would recommend this! But I wouldn’t re read it no.
🪧𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
Overall, Into Oblivion didn’t quite deliver the clarity or depth I personally crave in fantasy, but it excelled at creating mood, emotion, unforgettable characters and beautifully unsettling darkness. It may not have been a perfect read for me, but it’s certainly one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠;
𝕋𝕚𝕜𝕋𝕠𝕜
https://www.tiktok.com/@your_bookish_...
IᑎՏTᗩ
https://www.instagram.com/your_bookis...
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𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕤:
⭐️ DNF
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another author's hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish I didn't start this one as it didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetitive writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people, but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending it to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable. Even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!
SPICE SCALE:
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action
🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, playrooms, and more
⚜️𝔻𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕠𝕗- Into Oblivion
⚜️ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤-
(out of 5 stars, my rating scale is at the end)
* 📚 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / 5
* 🌡️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 MF 🌶🌶🌶 / 5 -𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑐𝑘 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑦 𝐺𝑜𝑜𝑑𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑠 𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑑𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠
* Which books have I also given this same rating? (𝑠𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑚𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑦𝑙𝑒𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑜𝑤𝑛)
5⭐️ Fourth wing / Bound by inked flame / Anathama / The Lies of Lena / Of silver and Curses
4.5⭐️ Bitten / The Female / Quicksilver / Bride / Lights Out / A Bargain so Bloody
4⭐️ Spellcaster / One Dark Window / From Blood and Ash / Phantasma / Butcher & Blackbird
3⭐️We Who Will Die / The Wolf King / Daughter of No Worlds / The Ex Hex
⚜️𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕀𝕟𝕗𝕠:
* Genre- Dark Fantasy
* 📖 403 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
* Dual 𝗣𝗢𝗩
* 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲- July 20, 2026
* 𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 or 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 driven? 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒶𝒸𝓉ℯ𝓇
* 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼- Standalone
* 𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 on 𝗞𝗨? ✅𝒴ℯ𝓈
* 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗲- 𝓌ℯ𝓁𝓁 𝓅𝒶𝒸ℯ𝒹 𝒻ℴ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓈𝓉ℴ𝓇𝓎
* 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲? ✅𝒴ℯ𝓈, ℐ 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇ℯ𝓂ℯ𝓂𝒷ℯ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓋𝒾𝒷ℯ𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒻ℯℯ𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝓁ℯ𝒻𝓉 𝓂ℯ 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 & ℐ𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇ℯ𝓂ℯ𝓂𝒷ℯ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒶𝒸𝓉ℯ𝓇𝓈 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 ℯ𝒶𝓈ℯ
* 𝐀𝐧𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧? (Disability, plus size, mental health etc...)✅ trauma
* ℳℴℴ𝒹𝓈; 𝑬𝒎𝒐𝒕𝑖𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍, 𝑴𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒌, 𝑻𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆, 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈
* 𝒟𝒾𝒹 𝒾 ℯ𝓃𝒿ℴ𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈?✅
* 𝒲𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓃ℯ𝓍𝓉 𝒷ℴℴ𝓀 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓈ℯ𝓇𝒾ℯ𝓈?✅
* 𝒲ℴ𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹 𝒶𝓃𝓎𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 ℯ𝓁𝓈ℯ 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒶𝓊𝓉𝒽ℴ𝓇?✅
* 𝖂𝖍𝖔 𝖜𝖔𝖚𝖑𝖉 𝖎 𝖗𝖊𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖙𝖔? Those who love Greek mythology and those who love a truly dark feminine rage story with hot and heavy primal play spice!
🚨🅲︎🅷︎🅴︎🅲︎🅺︎ 🆃︎🅷︎🅴︎ 🆃︎🆆︎!🚨
⚜️𝕊ℙ𝔼ℂ𝕀𝔼𝕊 𝕀ℕ 𝕊𝕋𝕆ℝ𝕐:
💋𝐻𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑠
🧙♀️𝔚𝔦𝔱𝔠𝔥𝔢𝔰
👹𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘
⚜️𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖 𝔽𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕤:
🔥𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧
🥵𝒟𝒾𝓇𝓉𝓎 𝒯𝒶𝓁𝓀
🙏𝐻𝑒 𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑠 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡
⚜️𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊
🏛️𝑀𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑠/𝐿𝑒𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔
🪦𝕳𝖔𝖗𝖗𝖔𝖗 𝕰𝖑𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖘
🍭𝕊𝕦𝕟𝕟𝕪 𝕍 𝔾𝕣𝕦𝕞𝕡𝕪
🏹𝐁𝐚𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐌𝐂
🤬 Feminine Rage
🥊 Revenge
⏳𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐞𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬
✨ TᕼᗴᗰᗴՏ ✨
Modern Medusa retelling
📝Cliff Notes Review-
Into Oblivion completely captivated me with its haunting Appalachian setting, dark Medusa retelling, incredible atmosphere, unforgettable characters, and perfectly paced slow-burn romance. Rhiannon’s journey through trauma and feminine rage was powerful, and the spice was just as emotionally charged as it was steamy. My biggest struggle was the writing style, as too many mysteries, characters, and pieces of lore felt underexplored or left open to interpretation, leaving me with more confusion than satisfaction. Even so, this was a beautifully dark and unforgettable read.
🌍 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘:
Into Oblivion is one of those books that’s incredibly difficult for me to rate because I genuinely loved so much about it… while simultaneously struggling with the way it was told.
The premise completely hooked me. A dark Medusa retelling set deep within the Appalachian Mountains, blending mythology, folklore, mystery, horror and romance? It sounded like everything I love in a fantasy romance.
And honestly… the atmosphere was phenomenal.
Ember Nicole clearly has an incredible talent for writing darkness that feels almost tangible. The Appalachian setting is haunting, eerie and oppressive, creating this constant feeling that something is lurking just beyond the trees. The supernatural elements, folklore and creeping sense of unease were some of my favourite parts of the entire novel.
The spice deserves its own mention because… wow. It was incredibly well written. Emotional, intense and perfectly placed within the story.
Where I struggled was with the writing style itself.
I completely understand what I think the author was trying to achieve. There is a deliberate sense of uncertainty running through the entire novel. Information is withheld, events are left open to interpretation, and you’re never entirely sure whether what you’re reading can be trusted. It creates an unsettling atmosphere that absolutely fits the tone of the story.
Unfortunately, I’m the kind of reader who needs answers.
I like mysteries, but I also like enough breadcrumbs that I can begin piecing things together as I read. Instead, I often found myself feeling confused rather than intrigued because so many ideas, characters and pieces of history felt only partially explored. -The witch is probably the best example of this for me. She fascinated me from the moment she appeared, but by the end I felt like I understood her less than when she was first introduced. Her role, particularly during the final quarter of the book, I waited for her to round with warnings and threats, or to start cleaning up the mess but it never came, so that left me with so many questions. I really kept expecting certain moments to be explained or expanded upon, especially considering the magic involved, but instead those questions remained unanswered.
The wider mythology also left me wanting more. The other creatures and legends for example. The foundations are fantastic, but I wanted richer lore, more history, and more explanation about how everything fit together. I could see the potential for something enormous, yet I often felt like I was only being shown fragments of the bigger picture.
My feelings about the ending are equally conflicted.
The revenge itself was incredibly satisfying, and there were several twists that genuinely caught me off guard. The final revelations added another layer of tragedy to the story and completely changed how I viewed certain characters.
…However, I expected something slightly different from Rhiannon’s final arc. -After everything she’d endured, I thought her journey would become not only about revenge, but also about protecting and supporting other women who had suffered similar horrors. Instead, the conclusion leaned much more towards karmic justice than emotional healing. It certainly worked within the story, but I personally found myself longing for moments where victims felt seen, heard and understood, rather than simply avenged.
I also would have appreciated a little more closure. There were conversations I desperately wanted to happen, truths I wanted openly acknowledged, and confessions I felt would have made the emotional payoff even stronger.
This book stayed with me long after I finished it, and I genuinely admire what Ember Nicole created here. Her ability to write haunting atmosphere, emotionally scarred yet compelling characters, feminine rage, unsettling magic and addictive slow-burn romance is undeniable.
This was my first book by Ember Nicole, and although the writing style didn’t completely work for me, I’m absolutely interested in reading another of her books. I’m curious to see whether this fragmented, mysterious style was a deliberate choice for this particular story or simply her natural writing voice.
🧝♂️ ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤:
Rhiannon was easily my favourite part of the book. Everything she survives is horrific, and yet she never loses the fierce determination to keep going. She embodies feminine rage without allowing her trauma to completely define her. I loved watching her reclaim pieces of herself, even when her journey was painful, messy and devastating.
I struggled slightly with Rhiannon’s emotional journey surrounding intimacy. Considering everything she’d endured, I personally found some of the intimate scenes difficult to reconcile with her previous trauma. I wanted a little more exploration of how she reached that point emotionally because it felt like an important part of her healing journey.
Breylan was another highlight for me. His determination to uncover the truth and protect those around him made him incredibly easy to root for, and I loved that, despite arriving as an outsider, he seemed to care more about the people in this town than many of those who had lived there their entire lives.
Their romance was exactly the pace I enjoy. Slow-burning, full of tension, reluctant attraction and chemistry that simmered beneath every interaction. Even with the heavy themes surrounding the story, their connection provided moments of warmth that stopped the darkness from becoming overwhelming.
The side characters were so interesting, and the villains were also well written. I was drawn in immediately as all the characters we met had an important role to play in the story, no one was ‘stuck’ in the story for the sake of it. They all had a purpose and fulfilled it extremely well.
😥 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤?
I just couldn’t get along with the writing style and open questions.
⏳ 𝕎𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕚 𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕠𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕕?
Absolutely I would recommend this! But I wouldn’t re read it no.
🪧𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
Overall, Into Oblivion didn’t quite deliver the clarity or depth I personally crave in fantasy, but it excelled at creating mood, emotion, unforgettable characters and beautifully unsettling darkness. It may not have been a perfect read for me, but it’s certainly one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠;
𝕋𝕚𝕜𝕋𝕠𝕜
https://www.tiktok.com/@your_bookish_...
IᑎՏTᗩ
https://www.instagram.com/your_bookis...
***********************
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕤:
⭐️ DNF
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another author's hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish I didn't start this one as it didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetitive writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people, but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending it to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable. Even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!
SPICE SCALE:
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action
🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, playrooms, and more
July 28, 2026
Honestly I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about the Medusa retelling but this was PERFECT. I loved it so much.
July 20, 2026
4.5 Stars
Into Oblivion, by Ember Nicole, is a dark, intense, atmospheric, and supernatural reimagining of the Medusa myth, set in the Appalachian Mountains. It blends Appalachian folklore, paranormal fantasy, mystery, and romance into something beautifully unsettling. Ember Nichole is no stranger to dark romance, as one of her original Heathens, I have been with her since her first release. Branching out into paranormal/fantasy was exciting!!
Breylan Jones arrives in the isolated town of Echo Rock as its new park ranger, determined to uncover the truth behind a series of disappearances that the locals have seemingly accepted as the work of something inhuman lurking in the mountains. He believes there is no monster more dangerous than man, but the deeper he ventures into the woods and the town’s secrets, the harder it becomes to separate superstition from reality.
Rhiannon was easily the heart of the story for me. She is a young woman who escapes a horrific kidnapping and torture plot in an isolated town in West Virginia. After surviving, she encounters someone who unlocks a power within her. This is no gift, but a painful curse. This is a beautiful story of feminine rage, shaped by cruelty, betrayal, survival, and the terrible things others have forced upon her.
The romance is a torturous slow burn, and it takes a back seat to the darker fantasy elements for portions of the book. They have a complex, volatile bond rooted in both physical attraction and the mutual realization that they are the only ones capable of confronting the town’s deep-seated rot.
Dark, magical, emotional, and filled with righteous feminine fury, Into Oblivion is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy morally complex characters, isolated mountain towns, witchcraft, paranormal mysteries, and retellings that empower misunderstood women to reclaim their own stories. I absolutely loved it!
Thanks to Ember Nicole for gifting me an eARC of Into Oblivion. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Into Oblivion, by Ember Nicole, is a dark, intense, atmospheric, and supernatural reimagining of the Medusa myth, set in the Appalachian Mountains. It blends Appalachian folklore, paranormal fantasy, mystery, and romance into something beautifully unsettling. Ember Nichole is no stranger to dark romance, as one of her original Heathens, I have been with her since her first release. Branching out into paranormal/fantasy was exciting!!
Breylan Jones arrives in the isolated town of Echo Rock as its new park ranger, determined to uncover the truth behind a series of disappearances that the locals have seemingly accepted as the work of something inhuman lurking in the mountains. He believes there is no monster more dangerous than man, but the deeper he ventures into the woods and the town’s secrets, the harder it becomes to separate superstition from reality.
Rhiannon was easily the heart of the story for me. She is a young woman who escapes a horrific kidnapping and torture plot in an isolated town in West Virginia. After surviving, she encounters someone who unlocks a power within her. This is no gift, but a painful curse. This is a beautiful story of feminine rage, shaped by cruelty, betrayal, survival, and the terrible things others have forced upon her.
The romance is a torturous slow burn, and it takes a back seat to the darker fantasy elements for portions of the book. They have a complex, volatile bond rooted in both physical attraction and the mutual realization that they are the only ones capable of confronting the town’s deep-seated rot.
Dark, magical, emotional, and filled with righteous feminine fury, Into Oblivion is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy morally complex characters, isolated mountain towns, witchcraft, paranormal mysteries, and retellings that empower misunderstood women to reclaim their own stories. I absolutely loved it!
Thanks to Ember Nicole for gifting me an eARC of Into Oblivion. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 11, 2026
3⭐️ 3🌶
This started off really good. REALLY good. I was convinced it was going to be a five-star read for me. I loved the beginning that gave us a glimpse into the "thing in the woods" the current timeline was leading to. I really liked the thriller/small town mystery style we got from Brey's first chapters. The build-up was really great.
When the MCs met, I was still into it. There was a lot of resistance from the FMC, which was very fitting, and I was excited for the push and pull that would surely go on for a while. But then . . . They're in love. Let's hump like rabbits and decide we're meant to be in the span of, like, a week, even though it doesn't really make sense. Don't get me wrong; the story build-up was leading to their eventual romance nicely, but there was no relationship build-up. At all. It needed more resistance, then some fracturing in control, then longing while still trying to resist. His little acts of kindness/protectiveness should have built toward that, but he only did the one thing that should've been just the first olive branch. But her trauma and hatred for men just flew away, and within a few days, they were obsessed with each other. For this story and the way it was built across the first 50%, the way the rest played out really didn't work.
Then it was spicy scene after spicy scene once they got together. I was skimming them at a certain point because we kept jumping back to spice, but with no reason for it except maybe to try convincing the reader they had chemistry, which they didn't have much of because it never got the chance to build. The chase scene felt so out of character and like the author just wanted it there to make the MMC edgy. I love a good chase scene in the woods. But this was forced, just like the whole relationship.
I liked the story itself, and it had potential. Unfortunately, after about halfway through, it lost its momentum, and everything it had so meticulously built up in the first half just fell really flat. That makes it more disappointing because of how great it started out.
This started off really good. REALLY good. I was convinced it was going to be a five-star read for me. I loved the beginning that gave us a glimpse into the "thing in the woods" the current timeline was leading to. I really liked the thriller/small town mystery style we got from Brey's first chapters. The build-up was really great.
When the MCs met, I was still into it. There was a lot of resistance from the FMC, which was very fitting, and I was excited for the push and pull that would surely go on for a while. But then . . . They're in love. Let's hump like rabbits and decide we're meant to be in the span of, like, a week, even though it doesn't really make sense. Don't get me wrong; the story build-up was leading to their eventual romance nicely, but there was no relationship build-up. At all. It needed more resistance, then some fracturing in control, then longing while still trying to resist. His little acts of kindness/protectiveness should have built toward that, but he only did the one thing that should've been just the first olive branch. But her trauma and hatred for men just flew away, and within a few days, they were obsessed with each other. For this story and the way it was built across the first 50%, the way the rest played out really didn't work.
Then it was spicy scene after spicy scene once they got together. I was skimming them at a certain point because we kept jumping back to spice, but with no reason for it except maybe to try convincing the reader they had chemistry, which they didn't have much of because it never got the chance to build. The chase scene felt so out of character and like the author just wanted it there to make the MMC edgy. I love a good chase scene in the woods. But this was forced, just like the whole relationship.
I liked the story itself, and it had potential. Unfortunately, after about halfway through, it lost its momentum, and everything it had so meticulously built up in the first half just fell really flat. That makes it more disappointing because of how great it started out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Take all the previous Medusa retellings you've read and expectations you have going into this book and toss it straight off a cliff. Trust me on this.
Ember writes this book in such a way that just exceeds beyond any expectations, any predictions, any theories you may have when you start this book.
It was absolutely fucking incredible.
Rhiannon, oh my gosh, how to even explain how much I love her character. I'm angry with her. I hurt with her. 😭 I just love her.
Obviously it being a Medusa story, Rhiannon's story is absolutely heart shattering and rage filled. But the twists and truths revealed it's on another level.
Then we have Breylan step into the picture. Who stirs the pot up in the small appalachian town full of secrets, lies, and fear. And he doesn't stop until he gets to the bottom of the truth. But what he finds....yea, definitely not what he expected.
The dynamics between them were just intense to say the least. But the way Breylan is with Rhiannon...he was respectful, but curious. Pushed every single of Rhiannon's buttons, but secretly she loves it without realizing it...till it's too late.🫣 and omg do things get HOT between them. 🥵🥵
I need to stop before I spoil anything.
There's also a witch. Which I also just adored.
Her character was just very intriguing and mysterious.
The ending had me just in such a chokehold, I couldn't stop crying. 😭😭😭😭
I wish I could say more, but I'm afraid I'd spoil things.
Just know you're in for a wild ride you just can't prepare for.
Also, you may want to clear your schedule, get a sitter for the kids, turn the phone off, grab some snacks, and tissues.(you'll need those 😭)so you can just read this uninterrupted.
Thank you Ember for the arc and the emotional ride you've yet again taken me on. 🫶🏻 this story means a lot to me.
Ember writes this book in such a way that just exceeds beyond any expectations, any predictions, any theories you may have when you start this book.
It was absolutely fucking incredible.
Rhiannon, oh my gosh, how to even explain how much I love her character. I'm angry with her. I hurt with her. 😭 I just love her.
Obviously it being a Medusa story, Rhiannon's story is absolutely heart shattering and rage filled. But the twists and truths revealed it's on another level.
Then we have Breylan step into the picture. Who stirs the pot up in the small appalachian town full of secrets, lies, and fear. And he doesn't stop until he gets to the bottom of the truth. But what he finds....yea, definitely not what he expected.
The dynamics between them were just intense to say the least. But the way Breylan is with Rhiannon...he was respectful, but curious. Pushed every single of Rhiannon's buttons, but secretly she loves it without realizing it...till it's too late.🫣 and omg do things get HOT between them. 🥵🥵
I need to stop before I spoil anything.
There's also a witch. Which I also just adored.
Her character was just very intriguing and mysterious.
The ending had me just in such a chokehold, I couldn't stop crying. 😭😭😭😭
I wish I could say more, but I'm afraid I'd spoil things.
Just know you're in for a wild ride you just can't prepare for.
Also, you may want to clear your schedule, get a sitter for the kids, turn the phone off, grab some snacks, and tissues.(you'll need those 😭)so you can just read this uninterrupted.
Thank you Ember for the arc and the emotional ride you've yet again taken me on. 🫶🏻 this story means a lot to me.
August 8, 2026
°.•☆•.°
𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑙𝑒 : into oblivion
𝑎𝑢𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑟 : ember nicole
𝑚𝑦 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 : ⭐️5/5
𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑟𝑒 : paranormal, dark romance, mythology, retelling
𝑎𝑟𝑐 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 : 🖤
📖 𝑎 𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝑠𝑦𝑛𝑜𝑝𝑠𝑖𝑠 :
A modern retelling of Medusa set in the Appalachian Mountains. When strange disappearances begin surrounding Echo Rock, park ranger Breylan Jones finds himself pulled into something much darker than he ever expected. As the mystery unfolds, an ancient story begins to take on a whole new form.
💬 𝑚𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠 :
Okay… this book was NOT what I expected. 😂
I knew Into Oblivion was a modern Medusa retelling, but I wasn’t prepared for how dark, strange, and emotional this story would become. I was hooked pretty quickly, and the Appalachian setting gave the entire book this creepy atmosphere that made me want to keep turning the pages.
I really loved seeing Medusa’s story reimagined in such a different way. There was so much feminine rage woven throughout the story, and I found myself becoming more and more invested in the characters and everything happening around them.
The atmosphere was definitely one of my favorite parts. There was this constant feeling that something was lurking just beneath the surface, and I loved that I never felt completely sure about where the story was going.
And that ending?? I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING. 😭
I finished this book with that wait… WHAT just happened? feeling, and honestly, those are some of my favorite endings.
This was such an unexpected and memorable read for me, and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it early. 🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
°.•☆•.°
𝑞𝑢𝑜𝑡𝑒:
“I’d rather be devastated this way by you than be saved by anyone else, sweetheart. Rip me apart and rebuild me over and over again to your liking if that’s what it takes to keep me here. To keep you safe.”
°.•☆•.°
𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑙𝑒 : into oblivion
𝑎𝑢𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑟 : ember nicole
𝑚𝑦 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 : ⭐️5/5
𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑟𝑒 : paranormal, dark romance, mythology, retelling
𝑎𝑟𝑐 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 : 🖤
📖 𝑎 𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝑠𝑦𝑛𝑜𝑝𝑠𝑖𝑠 :
A modern retelling of Medusa set in the Appalachian Mountains. When strange disappearances begin surrounding Echo Rock, park ranger Breylan Jones finds himself pulled into something much darker than he ever expected. As the mystery unfolds, an ancient story begins to take on a whole new form.
💬 𝑚𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠 :
Okay… this book was NOT what I expected. 😂
I knew Into Oblivion was a modern Medusa retelling, but I wasn’t prepared for how dark, strange, and emotional this story would become. I was hooked pretty quickly, and the Appalachian setting gave the entire book this creepy atmosphere that made me want to keep turning the pages.
I really loved seeing Medusa’s story reimagined in such a different way. There was so much feminine rage woven throughout the story, and I found myself becoming more and more invested in the characters and everything happening around them.
The atmosphere was definitely one of my favorite parts. There was this constant feeling that something was lurking just beneath the surface, and I loved that I never felt completely sure about where the story was going.
And that ending?? I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING. 😭
I finished this book with that wait… WHAT just happened? feeling, and honestly, those are some of my favorite endings.
This was such an unexpected and memorable read for me, and I’m so glad I got the chance to read it early. 🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
°.•☆•.°
𝑞𝑢𝑜𝑡𝑒:
“I’d rather be devastated this way by you than be saved by anyone else, sweetheart. Rip me apart and rebuild me over and over again to your liking if that’s what it takes to keep me here. To keep you safe.”
°.•☆•.°
August 26, 2026
3.75 ⭐ Rating - no spoilers!
Into Oblivion by Ember Nicole an interesting and dark take on the Medusa story, set in the modern Appalachian mountain backdrop. I love a good Medusa retelling and the Appalachian setting sounded intriguing to me, especially if the monsters in the town are worse than the monsters in the forest!
The premise of this book was super original and took me on a wild, and slightly confusing journey. I found myself asking "wtf is happening here" quite a bit, which I believe was the intention of the author. I had quite a few unanswered questions throughout and after this book, especially with the ending - I was not expecting that little bittersweet twist at the end, or the infuriating cliffhanger!
It is a slow burn beginning in the sense that it takes a bit for our MMC and FMC to meet, but when they do, it is a tinge insta-lust but the spice do be poppin! 🌶️
The story didn't hook me right off the bat and took a bit for me to get into. I can't say it gripped me by the throat the way I wanted it to - you know where a book keeps you up late just to read one more chapter, but I did enjoy it enough to finish it. I think where I struggled with this book is that the writing felt a little run-on, and I found myself zoning out reading paragraphs that felt like a lot of words to describe very little.
All in all, I enjoyed this Medusa retelling and would recommend it to anyone interested in those types of stories with a dark, gritty spin and some good spice. Although please be mindful of trigger warnings!
I was received this ARC from the author, Ember Nicole and BookSirens but this review is honest and freely written.
Into Oblivion by Ember Nicole an interesting and dark take on the Medusa story, set in the modern Appalachian mountain backdrop. I love a good Medusa retelling and the Appalachian setting sounded intriguing to me, especially if the monsters in the town are worse than the monsters in the forest!
The premise of this book was super original and took me on a wild, and slightly confusing journey. I found myself asking "wtf is happening here" quite a bit, which I believe was the intention of the author. I had quite a few unanswered questions throughout and after this book, especially with the ending - I was not expecting that little bittersweet twist at the end, or the infuriating cliffhanger!
It is a slow burn beginning in the sense that it takes a bit for our MMC and FMC to meet, but when they do, it is a tinge insta-lust but the spice do be poppin! 🌶️
The story didn't hook me right off the bat and took a bit for me to get into. I can't say it gripped me by the throat the way I wanted it to - you know where a book keeps you up late just to read one more chapter, but I did enjoy it enough to finish it. I think where I struggled with this book is that the writing felt a little run-on, and I found myself zoning out reading paragraphs that felt like a lot of words to describe very little.
All in all, I enjoyed this Medusa retelling and would recommend it to anyone interested in those types of stories with a dark, gritty spin and some good spice. Although please be mindful of trigger warnings!
I was received this ARC from the author, Ember Nicole and BookSirens but this review is honest and freely written.
July 18, 2026
📖Into Oblivion
By Ember Nicole
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💀 dark paranormal romance
🐍 witches, demons, magic
💀 age gap
🐍 enemies-to-lovers
💀 slow burn
🐍 dual POV
💀 unconventional HEA
🐍 a touch of forced proximity
💀 a dash of primal & blood play
🐍 an absolute fuck ton of feminine rage
I have read a lot of retellings or versions of Medusas story and this one was so unique.
Being a modern retelling, the beginning of this book built the Medusa lore quickly with the tragedy Rhiannon experienced. Her sheer will to live and rage towards the people of that town. Just ugh, I was angry for her. She should have brought down judgement day sooner on those 🤬s, they are all horrible people.
Ok, don’t want to give too many spoilers but I must talk about the Brey aka the Ranger. This grumpy loner wasn’t even in this town for one day and had done more for it than the people that grew up and lived there their entire lives. I absolutely loved the enemies to lovers but also kinda the thrilling mystery of how this story played out! I was so enthralled in how this story was going to play out, the spicy scenes felt like the background but still loved them anyways! That’s just how good the storyline was and I was hooked. Fantastic read! Thank you so much for adding me to your ARC team Ember! Would highly recommend.
By Ember Nicole
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💀 dark paranormal romance
🐍 witches, demons, magic
💀 age gap
🐍 enemies-to-lovers
💀 slow burn
🐍 dual POV
💀 unconventional HEA
🐍 a touch of forced proximity
💀 a dash of primal & blood play
🐍 an absolute fuck ton of feminine rage
I have read a lot of retellings or versions of Medusas story and this one was so unique.
Being a modern retelling, the beginning of this book built the Medusa lore quickly with the tragedy Rhiannon experienced. Her sheer will to live and rage towards the people of that town. Just ugh, I was angry for her. She should have brought down judgement day sooner on those 🤬s, they are all horrible people.
Ok, don’t want to give too many spoilers but I must talk about the Brey aka the Ranger. This grumpy loner wasn’t even in this town for one day and had done more for it than the people that grew up and lived there their entire lives. I absolutely loved the enemies to lovers but also kinda the thrilling mystery of how this story played out! I was so enthralled in how this story was going to play out, the spicy scenes felt like the background but still loved them anyways! That’s just how good the storyline was and I was hooked. Fantastic read! Thank you so much for adding me to your ARC team Ember! Would highly recommend.
August 10, 2026
really incredible Medusa retelling
This was such an amazing read. I haven’t read very many Medusa retellings but this one was so incredibly well done. The start of this book is pretty horrific, Rhiannon goes through some really awful things before she meets Witch and her circumstances change although they don’t become easy. Breylan comes to Echo Rock to try to investigate the string of unexplained disappearances of just about every person who enters the woods. I loved how much effort he put into uncovering the truth about the corruption in town and his quest for justice for Rhiannon. The spicy scenes with Rhiannon and Breylan are the gift that keeps on giving and it honestly seemed like they really helped to heal a lot of the emotional pain Rhiannon had been plagued with for years. The way these two pushed each other’s buttons was so funny and entertaining and I loved seeing them grow closer. After something happens to Breylan, Rhiannon goes full on nuclear against the responsible parties in Echo Rock and the vengeance is just extremely satisfying. I loved the way Breylan and Rhiannon both changed so much over the course of the story and the twists near the end will knock your socks off. This was completely amazing and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
This was such an amazing read. I haven’t read very many Medusa retellings but this one was so incredibly well done. The start of this book is pretty horrific, Rhiannon goes through some really awful things before she meets Witch and her circumstances change although they don’t become easy. Breylan comes to Echo Rock to try to investigate the string of unexplained disappearances of just about every person who enters the woods. I loved how much effort he put into uncovering the truth about the corruption in town and his quest for justice for Rhiannon. The spicy scenes with Rhiannon and Breylan are the gift that keeps on giving and it honestly seemed like they really helped to heal a lot of the emotional pain Rhiannon had been plagued with for years. The way these two pushed each other’s buttons was so funny and entertaining and I loved seeing them grow closer. After something happens to Breylan, Rhiannon goes full on nuclear against the responsible parties in Echo Rock and the vengeance is just extremely satisfying. I loved the way Breylan and Rhiannon both changed so much over the course of the story and the twists near the end will knock your socks off. This was completely amazing and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Into Oblivion 🐍🗿🖤- Ember Nicole
In this story we start with meeting Rhiannon, a girl who has a troubled past and finds herself running from home, and would rather risk her life with the dangers of the night things in the forest.😵💀 Only to discover herself being granted with a curse from a witch, to protect her from the evil that will come after her.✨ Years go by as she becomes one with this curse, only to have her routine mangled by a man, Breylan, that is not affected by her curse….and is just as stubborn as she is.🤭🫣 From bickering and pushing one another, to highly sensual tension and feelings she hasn’t felt in a while and never thought she would.🥴⛓️💥🥀
Will they find a way to change the lifestyle of this curse and way to live with it together?👀🤔😯
Okay so I think this book actually took a piece of my soul with it..😫I actually feel so attached to these two characters and NEED to know more of the ending of their story ASAP. I loved their dynamic and was just so indulged in their story. I binged this book so hard because I truly could not get enough.🤩🥹🖤 I think a part of me is now always with Rhiannon and Breylan and I’m sad I’ll never get to read this book for the first time again.😫😤🫠
In Every Lifetime♾️
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️⛓️💥
In this story we start with meeting Rhiannon, a girl who has a troubled past and finds herself running from home, and would rather risk her life with the dangers of the night things in the forest.😵💀 Only to discover herself being granted with a curse from a witch, to protect her from the evil that will come after her.✨ Years go by as she becomes one with this curse, only to have her routine mangled by a man, Breylan, that is not affected by her curse….and is just as stubborn as she is.🤭🫣 From bickering and pushing one another, to highly sensual tension and feelings she hasn’t felt in a while and never thought she would.🥴⛓️💥🥀
Will they find a way to change the lifestyle of this curse and way to live with it together?👀🤔😯
Okay so I think this book actually took a piece of my soul with it..😫I actually feel so attached to these two characters and NEED to know more of the ending of their story ASAP. I loved their dynamic and was just so indulged in their story. I binged this book so hard because I truly could not get enough.🤩🥹🖤 I think a part of me is now always with Rhiannon and Breylan and I’m sad I’ll never get to read this book for the first time again.😫😤🫠
In Every Lifetime♾️
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️⛓️💥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Into Oblivion quite literally sent my heart into oblivion.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and it completely exceeded every expectation I had. This is one of the most original, emotionally gripping paranormal romances I’ve read.
Every character felt fully realized. I found myself deeply invested in Rhi, Brey, Jason, and the Witch. Even the villains were so thoughtfully written that they added depth to every chapter rather than simply serving as obstacles.
The Appalachian setting was absolutely perfect. It created such an eerie, atmospheric backdrop that made every revelation and twist feel believable and haunting.
The romance stole my heart. It was tender, heartbreaking, and beautifully developed. Yes, cried.
The spice? Absolutely delicious. 10/10. No notes.
This has officially become my favorite paranormal romance. Between the unforgettable characters, emotional love story, shocking twists, and unique take on monster romance, I couldn’t put it down.
If you love dark fantasy, paranormal romance, or monster romance with plenty of heart, emotion, and spice, Into Oblivion is for you.
I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and it completely exceeded every expectation I had. This is one of the most original, emotionally gripping paranormal romances I’ve read.
Every character felt fully realized. I found myself deeply invested in Rhi, Brey, Jason, and the Witch. Even the villains were so thoughtfully written that they added depth to every chapter rather than simply serving as obstacles.
The Appalachian setting was absolutely perfect. It created such an eerie, atmospheric backdrop that made every revelation and twist feel believable and haunting.
The romance stole my heart. It was tender, heartbreaking, and beautifully developed. Yes, cried.
The spice? Absolutely delicious. 10/10. No notes.
This has officially become my favorite paranormal romance. Between the unforgettable characters, emotional love story, shocking twists, and unique take on monster romance, I couldn’t put it down.
If you love dark fantasy, paranormal romance, or monster romance with plenty of heart, emotion, and spice, Into Oblivion is for you.
July 21, 2026
Ember Nicole flies too close to the sun...and lives to tell!
Ember Nicole's writing style once again sets the world ablaze. Take Greek Mythology, urban legends, dark romance, paranormal, intense visual descriptions, small town settings and dump it into a cauldron, and you'll get your next favorite retelling of Medusa.
What I like most about Ember Nicole's books is how she weaves in and builds detail, and it truly leaves you on the edge of your seat. The main character? Love, hate, anger, empathy, rage... emotions so raw, real, and visceral. The 'romance', or 'intensity', is just right. In true fairy tale fashion, the main characters balance and compliment each other beautifully. It was impossible at times to set the book down. She has a style about her that really empowers and captivates her audience.
As part of the Ember Nicole ARC crew, it was an honor to get to read this book ahead of the general public. I have enjoyed all of her books so far, and I would highly recommend this to anyone who dabbles with mythology, lore and the like, and especially to all dark romance readers.
Ember Nicole's writing style once again sets the world ablaze. Take Greek Mythology, urban legends, dark romance, paranormal, intense visual descriptions, small town settings and dump it into a cauldron, and you'll get your next favorite retelling of Medusa.
What I like most about Ember Nicole's books is how she weaves in and builds detail, and it truly leaves you on the edge of your seat. The main character? Love, hate, anger, empathy, rage... emotions so raw, real, and visceral. The 'romance', or 'intensity', is just right. In true fairy tale fashion, the main characters balance and compliment each other beautifully. It was impossible at times to set the book down. She has a style about her that really empowers and captivates her audience.
As part of the Ember Nicole ARC crew, it was an honor to get to read this book ahead of the general public. I have enjoyed all of her books so far, and I would highly recommend this to anyone who dabbles with mythology, lore and the like, and especially to all dark romance readers.
August 4, 2026
A Medusa retelling set in the Appalachian Mountains with witchy rituals? Sign me up! From the very first page, I was completely hooked. The plot build-up was incredible, the atmosphere was so vivid that I genuinely felt like I was right there, experiencing every single emotion alongside the FMC. The sarcastic banter between Rhiannon and Breylan was absolute gold; I completely ate every single interaction up. Plus, true to any good Medusa story, the author brings an intensity that will have you raging against almost every man in this small town. My heart ached for the FMC, and I felt every ounce of her anger right along with her.
I loved every single thing about this read. Once the plot twists start hitting, they simply do not stop, it’s an easy, fast-paced page turner that keeps you on your toes until the very end. While I definitely walked away with a few unanswered questions after that wild ending, I’m thrilled to know the Witch is getting her own book next! If you love dark, immersive retellings packed with banter and endless twists, you need to add this to your TBR immediately.
4/5 ⭐️
🐍 Medusa Retelling
🐍 Age Gap Romance
🐍 Blood Play
🐍 Primal Play
I loved every single thing about this read. Once the plot twists start hitting, they simply do not stop, it’s an easy, fast-paced page turner that keeps you on your toes until the very end. While I definitely walked away with a few unanswered questions after that wild ending, I’m thrilled to know the Witch is getting her own book next! If you love dark, immersive retellings packed with banter and endless twists, you need to add this to your TBR immediately.
4/5 ⭐️
🐍 Medusa Retelling
🐍 Age Gap Romance
🐍 Blood Play
🐍 Primal Play
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow!!
that's probably the best way to start, this book was incredible... Ember Nicole is a new author for me and after this, she will be a constant.
Rhiannon is our FMC and when i say she has a rough start to this book, that is not an underestimate. She's chained in a basement, and her captors are just waiting on her to 💀.
She escapes and collapses in the woods where a witch finds her, just "witch" she gives no name and has very little personality because of what and who she is.
She saves Rhiannon by turning her into something. Something that can judge, jury and excute the guilty.
People from town come for her, over and over and her snakes (she absolutely has snakes in her hair) judge them and then turn them into stone.
Enger Breylan, (I've got a serious crush on Breylan) he's a park ranger and he's new assignment is Rhiannon's former town and surround woods.
The story from there turns hot and explosive, Breylan won't go away and he breaks through Rhiannon's walls and they fall in love.
Breylan does have help finding out what's going on in the form of a waitress who is the sheriff's daughter and Jason a teenager who is in an outcast and way into the paranormal.
It's an amazing book, i don't want to give any spoilers but there was at least twice in this book that it made me flat out ugly cry.
it's an incredible medusa retelling that will break your heart and then put it right back together.
spice is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 sheer perfection.
amazing!!!
that's probably the best way to start, this book was incredible... Ember Nicole is a new author for me and after this, she will be a constant.
Rhiannon is our FMC and when i say she has a rough start to this book, that is not an underestimate. She's chained in a basement, and her captors are just waiting on her to 💀.
She escapes and collapses in the woods where a witch finds her, just "witch" she gives no name and has very little personality because of what and who she is.
She saves Rhiannon by turning her into something. Something that can judge, jury and excute the guilty.
People from town come for her, over and over and her snakes (she absolutely has snakes in her hair) judge them and then turn them into stone.
Enger Breylan, (I've got a serious crush on Breylan) he's a park ranger and he's new assignment is Rhiannon's former town and surround woods.
The story from there turns hot and explosive, Breylan won't go away and he breaks through Rhiannon's walls and they fall in love.
Breylan does have help finding out what's going on in the form of a waitress who is the sheriff's daughter and Jason a teenager who is in an outcast and way into the paranormal.
It's an amazing book, i don't want to give any spoilers but there was at least twice in this book that it made me flat out ugly cry.
it's an incredible medusa retelling that will break your heart and then put it right back together.
spice is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 sheer perfection.
amazing!!!
July 28, 2026
Summary:
Rhiannon is running for her life in the mountains of West Virginia after escaping the clutches of a man who is pure evil. When she encounters something in the woods, she undergoes a transformation that makes her the new monster to be afraid of—and the new park ranger in town stumbles upon a mystery that leads straight to her.
Title: Into Oblivion
Author: Ember Nicole
@embernicole.author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Tropes:
Medusa Retelling
Feminine Rage
Appalachia Mythology
Triggers:
Loss of an infant
SA/r@pe
Men abusing power
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Ember is a master at writing complex characters you empathize with and root for even while seeing their flaws on full display. This Medusa retelling is a perfect portrayal of feminine rage and Rhi is a great FMC and conduit of that rage. I love that with Ember’s story, the romance is the subplot and the growth of the FMC is the real story, and this is another great example of that. Ember is one of my favorite indie authors—add this book as yet another reason why! Thank you Ember for this e-ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5 Chili Peppers 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I absolutely loved this book. I was completely hooked from start to finish.
This paranormal dark romance gave me everything—enemies to lovers, feminine rage, intense emotional depth, and primal tension that felt raw and addictive. The story is dark, atmospheric, and deeply immersive.
Rhiannon’s journey is heavy and powerful, shaped by trauma, survival, and reclaiming her sense of self in a world that failed her. Breylan enters her life as things begin to shift, and their connection is intense, complicated, and impossible to ignore.
This book is not for the faint of heart—please check trigger warnings—but it’s written in a way that feels purposeful and gripping rather than overwhelming.
I loved the detail and pacing. So many books leave me with unanswered questions, but this one fully pulled me in and kept me there the entire time. I’m already desperate for the next book.
I absolutely loved this book. I was completely hooked from start to finish.
This paranormal dark romance gave me everything—enemies to lovers, feminine rage, intense emotional depth, and primal tension that felt raw and addictive. The story is dark, atmospheric, and deeply immersive.
Rhiannon’s journey is heavy and powerful, shaped by trauma, survival, and reclaiming her sense of self in a world that failed her. Breylan enters her life as things begin to shift, and their connection is intense, complicated, and impossible to ignore.
This book is not for the faint of heart—please check trigger warnings—but it’s written in a way that feels purposeful and gripping rather than overwhelming.
I loved the detail and pacing. So many books leave me with unanswered questions, but this one fully pulled me in and kept me there the entire time. I’m already desperate for the next book.
July 26, 2026
Story 5 ⭐✨
Spice 3.5 🌶️
Into Oblivion is a dark, modernized, Medusa re-telling that takes place in the Appalachian Mountains. Be sure to check the triggers if you need as most of the residents of Echo Rock are absolute monsters, and several of their crimes will told in the story.
Rhiannon and Breylan are both very compelling characters, who work so well together. Rhiannon is full of rage over what happened to her that led to her powers, and is very much a brat with Breylan. Breylan finds himself drawn to Rhiannon and determined to figure out what has happened to both Rhiannon, and all the missing people of Echo Rock. Everything he believes in is tested as he learns what is going on.
How Rhiannon's powers work is the most fascinating part of this story. The powers come at a severe mental cost to Rhiannon. A cost that unveils some of the darkest secrets of those she encounters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spice 3.5 🌶️
Into Oblivion is a dark, modernized, Medusa re-telling that takes place in the Appalachian Mountains. Be sure to check the triggers if you need as most of the residents of Echo Rock are absolute monsters, and several of their crimes will told in the story.
Rhiannon and Breylan are both very compelling characters, who work so well together. Rhiannon is full of rage over what happened to her that led to her powers, and is very much a brat with Breylan. Breylan finds himself drawn to Rhiannon and determined to figure out what has happened to both Rhiannon, and all the missing people of Echo Rock. Everything he believes in is tested as he learns what is going on.
How Rhiannon's powers work is the most fascinating part of this story. The powers come at a severe mental cost to Rhiannon. A cost that unveils some of the darkest secrets of those she encounters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 12, 2026
“Even if she pissed me off more with every word she spoke, I forced myself to remember she really wasn’t out here by choice…” BREYLAN’s POV, page 278
Into Oblivion offers an original and refreshing take on Medusa and her curse! I loved Rhiannon’s connection to the snakes of the Appalachians and their wise yet deadly nature. Rhiannon is a character full of strength and resilience who, after being rescued by a witch from a group of men in the forest, is turned into a sort of Medusa by the very same hand that saved her from death.
But for me, the BEST part was Rhiannon and Breylan’s relationship!Their age gap, heated chemistry, complicated history, and the intensity of their hate-to-love attraction had me completely hooked. Their love is dark, messy, passionate, and frustrating in the best possible way. I could have happily read an entire book about just the two of them!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Into Oblivion offers an original and refreshing take on Medusa and her curse! I loved Rhiannon’s connection to the snakes of the Appalachians and their wise yet deadly nature. Rhiannon is a character full of strength and resilience who, after being rescued by a witch from a group of men in the forest, is turned into a sort of Medusa by the very same hand that saved her from death.
But for me, the BEST part was Rhiannon and Breylan’s relationship!Their age gap, heated chemistry, complicated history, and the intensity of their hate-to-love attraction had me completely hooked. Their love is dark, messy, passionate, and frustrating in the best possible way. I could have happily read an entire book about just the two of them!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
***ARC Review***
I absolutely love greek mythology so I knew that a Medusa retelling was right up my alley. Not only does this display the inner power women have.
Into Oblivion takes place in Appalachia (West Virginia), if you know anything about Appalachia you know there are stories that those towns all know of the woods. But what if the monsters in the woods are just people who humanity has done wrong to and turned into something else to protect themselves?
This books is dark, it covers abuse in a few different ways so check your triggers.
Other tropes:
- Age Gap
- witches, demons, magic
- enemies to lovers
-dual POV
- slow burn
- FEMININE RAGE (caps because ugh I love Rhi and her rage)
I loved this book and even though I'm a little mad about the ending, I'll accept it just because Rhi deserves happiness.
I absolutely love greek mythology so I knew that a Medusa retelling was right up my alley. Not only does this display the inner power women have.
Into Oblivion takes place in Appalachia (West Virginia), if you know anything about Appalachia you know there are stories that those towns all know of the woods. But what if the monsters in the woods are just people who humanity has done wrong to and turned into something else to protect themselves?
This books is dark, it covers abuse in a few different ways so check your triggers.
Other tropes:
- Age Gap
- witches, demons, magic
- enemies to lovers
-dual POV
- slow burn
- FEMININE RAGE (caps because ugh I love Rhi and her rage)
I loved this book and even though I'm a little mad about the ending, I'll accept it just because Rhi deserves happiness.
July 27, 2026
I have been in a reading slump and I had the privilege of arc reading this amazing book.
Rhi’s story starts off tragic and the tragedy doesn’t stop there. She has to live through hell and trusts no one as the Appalachian mountains has you questioning everyone and everything. Five years of living in a body she does not understand.
Ranger Brey doesn’t believe in monsters even with his new job being in the Appalachians. His fear is non existent like the people of that small town. Too many have gone missing in five years to let fear stop him from discovering what’s going on. His curiosity brought him face to face to the person who will change his perspective on ALL things.
This is a Medusa retelling so PLEASE read your trigger warnings and be prepared for plot twists you did not see coming. Maybe even a box of tissues!
Rhi’s story starts off tragic and the tragedy doesn’t stop there. She has to live through hell and trusts no one as the Appalachian mountains has you questioning everyone and everything. Five years of living in a body she does not understand.
Ranger Brey doesn’t believe in monsters even with his new job being in the Appalachians. His fear is non existent like the people of that small town. Too many have gone missing in five years to let fear stop him from discovering what’s going on. His curiosity brought him face to face to the person who will change his perspective on ALL things.
This is a Medusa retelling so PLEASE read your trigger warnings and be prepared for plot twists you did not see coming. Maybe even a box of tissues!
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