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Burden
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2026
About the author
Aiden E. Messer
38 books153 followersAiden E. Messer does not exist. Are they an illusion, a ghost, a mere thought? No one knows. If we are to believe one of the children they seem to work with, if they were a teacher, they would be as tall as a human. They are not a teacher. According to various sources, they have studied psychology, and have always had a penchant for horror and the macabre. They like to combine these subjects in their books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 14, 2026
This had a lot of the gore I've come to expect from Messer, but....I was honestly not at all expecting the gentle depravity between Fardeau and Reaver. I have never read anything quite so graphic in violence that still somehow managed to be wholesome in a way.
I also really loved how this one was also set in a post-apocalyptic world. I've read a good handful of Messers story's that are in a similar setting and I just really enjoy them.
I feel like there's definitely more I can say but right now I need a minute to get all my thoughts in order. Idk.... Maybe my being speechless speaks for itself lol
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review
I also really loved how this one was also set in a post-apocalyptic world. I've read a good handful of Messers story's that are in a similar setting and I just really enjoy them.
I feel like there's definitely more I can say but right now I need a minute to get all my thoughts in order. Idk.... Maybe my being speechless speaks for itself lol
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review
July 10, 2026
Burden is as brutal as it looks: the flashbacks to Fardeau's torture had me feeling nauseated. He can no longer tell where his trauma ends and his desires begin...but maybe he can still learn. My horror melted away as Fardeau, much as he tries fight it, begins to feel hope again. The striking contrast between violent subjugation and willing submission was such a sweet surprise. The shock may have drawn me in but the tenderness solidified my love for these characters.
Thanks so so much to Aiden for sending an ARC my way. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
Thanks so so much to Aiden for sending an ARC my way. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
July 9, 2026
"ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ᴍɪɴᴇ. ᴍɪɴᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴜsᴇ, ᴍɪɴᴇ ᴛᴏ ʜᴜʀᴛ, ᴍɪɴᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴄᴀʀᴇ ғᴏʀ, ᴍɪɴᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛ."
ʙᴜʀᴅᴇɴ was such a gripping and gory read, I had the absolute best time meeting Fardeau & Reaver, I loved them so much, they were perfect for each other. Reaver was so caring. Ohh, and this cover is breathtakingly gorgeous.
I highly recommend reading this book to horror lovers who love romance in their stories!
ʙᴜʀᴅᴇɴ was such a gripping and gory read, I had the absolute best time meeting Fardeau & Reaver, I loved them so much, they were perfect for each other. Reaver was so caring. Ohh, and this cover is breathtakingly gorgeous.
I highly recommend reading this book to horror lovers who love romance in their stories!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a trip!
It dove straight into gore and I was not expecting it. I am by no way complaining just want other readers to be aware of what they are signing up for before they pick it up because it is hard to put down once you start.
I wish it was longer and gave us more backstory around the main characters and the world they live in but being shorter did make it easier to binge as I didn't want to put it down.
I also felt it was a bit repetitive about his traitorous dick and shameful groin, we get it, he is turned on but doesn't want to be.
I also wish it showed more of the aftercare because it was so cute and I feel it was important to their dynamic and building relationship.
I loved that as rough as Reaver is during sex he doesn't want to go to far and do permanent harm other then replacing his bad scars with good ones.
I loved the aftercare so much and Fardeau deserves so much love and care after what he has been through.
I loved how much description was put into the graphic scenes. I was literally cringing in some scenes and recoiling into my chair.
I want to thank the Author for allowing me to read this ARC and I am looking forward to seeing what they do in the future.
It dove straight into gore and I was not expecting it. I am by no way complaining just want other readers to be aware of what they are signing up for before they pick it up because it is hard to put down once you start.
I wish it was longer and gave us more backstory around the main characters and the world they live in but being shorter did make it easier to binge as I didn't want to put it down.
I also felt it was a bit repetitive about his traitorous dick and shameful groin, we get it, he is turned on but doesn't want to be.
I also wish it showed more of the aftercare because it was so cute and I feel it was important to their dynamic and building relationship.
I loved that as rough as Reaver is during sex he doesn't want to go to far and do permanent harm other then replacing his bad scars with good ones.
I loved the aftercare so much and Fardeau deserves so much love and care after what he has been through.
I loved how much description was put into the graphic scenes. I was literally cringing in some scenes and recoiling into my chair.
I want to thank the Author for allowing me to read this ARC and I am looking forward to seeing what they do in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think it’s important to mention up front that I went into this book expecting a dark romance. For me personally, this read much more like splatterpunk/body horror with romantic elements rather than what I would typically categorize as dark romance. I don’t say that as criticism of the genre itself, but I do think expectations matter going in.
The story follows a young man who has experienced profound rejection and trauma, and whose relationship with pain, connection, and feeling becomes increasingly complex. Eventually, he meets someone whose sadism aligns with his masochistic tendencies.
One thing I did appreciate was that once this relationship was introduced, there was more emphasis on consent, boundaries, and the main character’s wellbeing than I expected based on the tone of the rest of the book. I thought that dynamic had potential and I appreciated that those elements were present.
Where this lost me was the pacing. The storytelling felt very fast and I found myself wanting more time with the characters and more emotional depth. Because events moved so quickly, I never fully connected with them or felt as invested as I wanted to. I wanted more room to understand who these characters were beyond the shock and intensity of what was happening to them.
Overall, while I enjoy splatterpunk and body horror and am not opposed to extreme content, I was hoping for more character development and emotional connection to balance the intensity. There were ideas here that I found interesting, but I ultimately finished the book wanting more depth than I felt it delivered.
I think it’s important to mention up front that I went into this book expecting a dark romance. For me personally, this read much more like splatterpunk/body horror with romantic elements rather than what I would typically categorize as dark romance. I don’t say that as criticism of the genre itself, but I do think expectations matter going in.
The story follows a young man who has experienced profound rejection and trauma, and whose relationship with pain, connection, and feeling becomes increasingly complex. Eventually, he meets someone whose sadism aligns with his masochistic tendencies.
One thing I did appreciate was that once this relationship was introduced, there was more emphasis on consent, boundaries, and the main character’s wellbeing than I expected based on the tone of the rest of the book. I thought that dynamic had potential and I appreciated that those elements were present.
Where this lost me was the pacing. The storytelling felt very fast and I found myself wanting more time with the characters and more emotional depth. Because events moved so quickly, I never fully connected with them or felt as invested as I wanted to. I wanted more room to understand who these characters were beyond the shock and intensity of what was happening to them.
Overall, while I enjoy splatterpunk and body horror and am not opposed to extreme content, I was hoping for more character development and emotional connection to balance the intensity. There were ideas here that I found interesting, but I ultimately finished the book wanting more depth than I felt it delivered.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to read an ARC of Burden. Thank you to the author for an early copy!
From the very beginning, I was hooked by the body horror. It had strong splatterpunk vibes that I absolutely loved, with vivid, unsettling imagery that really worked for me.
One of my favorite parts of the book was following Fardeau’s journey as he struggled with trauma, PTSD, and ultimately began taking back control of his life. I also really enjoyed his relationship with Reaver. Their dynamic as lovers and within an extreme relationship dynamic was fascinating and had a lot of potential for emotional depth.
My biggest criticism is honestly that the book felt too short. I found myself wishing there had been much more time to explore the characters and their relationships. Fardeau and Reaver’s connection developed so quickly that it sometimes felt rushed, which made it a little harder for me to fully invest in their romance. I also think spending more time building toward the revenge arc would have made the payoff even more satisfying.
After everything that happened, I wanted more of Fardeau’s healing journey as well. Seeing him process his trauma, navigate new friendships, and learn how to accept genuine love and kindness after being deprived of it for so long would have added even more emotional weight to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed Burden. My biggest complaint is simply that I wanted more of it, which is honestly a good problem to have. I would have happily spent another hundred pages with these characters. I’m excited to see what this author writes next and will definitely be keeping an eye out for their future work.
From the very beginning, I was hooked by the body horror. It had strong splatterpunk vibes that I absolutely loved, with vivid, unsettling imagery that really worked for me.
One of my favorite parts of the book was following Fardeau’s journey as he struggled with trauma, PTSD, and ultimately began taking back control of his life. I also really enjoyed his relationship with Reaver. Their dynamic as lovers and within an extreme relationship dynamic was fascinating and had a lot of potential for emotional depth.
My biggest criticism is honestly that the book felt too short. I found myself wishing there had been much more time to explore the characters and their relationships. Fardeau and Reaver’s connection developed so quickly that it sometimes felt rushed, which made it a little harder for me to fully invest in their romance. I also think spending more time building toward the revenge arc would have made the payoff even more satisfying.
After everything that happened, I wanted more of Fardeau’s healing journey as well. Seeing him process his trauma, navigate new friendships, and learn how to accept genuine love and kindness after being deprived of it for so long would have added even more emotional weight to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed Burden. My biggest complaint is simply that I wanted more of it, which is honestly a good problem to have. I would have happily spent another hundred pages with these characters. I’m excited to see what this author writes next and will definitely be keeping an eye out for their future work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Burden, written by Aiden E. Messer, is a short story set in a postapocalyptic landscape. This is my first story by this author, and I was completely drawn in by the cover. I have a love-hate relationship with short stories; it's either the longing for more or the joy of binge-reading.
Here we meet Fardeau, originally named “Burden” by his parents, trapped in a cycle of suffering. He was captured by the Roj Clan, enduring intense physical and psychological torture for information he barely possesses. Pain is distorted into a form of comfort. When he returns to his village, he finds that he seeks out further mistreatment as penance for his failures. Through Reaver, Fardeau transitions from victim to a masochist, exploring consensual exploration of power, pain, and validation. Going from an object to be used and discarded to something to be desired and reclaiming control.
I suppose you could say that this story, although unconventional, traces the evolution of an unwanted child into a man who defines his own worth with the resilience required to survive a broken world. Healing is deeply personal and sometimes demands total reconstruction of one’s identity, values, and loyalties.
As I mentioned earlier, I was left longing more. More in-depth character development and an emotional aspect. I really did enjoy the extreme horror/splatterpunk aspects with its blood and gore. I love an intense read.
Thanks to Aiden E. Messer for gifting me an eARC of Burden. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Here we meet Fardeau, originally named “Burden” by his parents, trapped in a cycle of suffering. He was captured by the Roj Clan, enduring intense physical and psychological torture for information he barely possesses. Pain is distorted into a form of comfort. When he returns to his village, he finds that he seeks out further mistreatment as penance for his failures. Through Reaver, Fardeau transitions from victim to a masochist, exploring consensual exploration of power, pain, and validation. Going from an object to be used and discarded to something to be desired and reclaiming control.
I suppose you could say that this story, although unconventional, traces the evolution of an unwanted child into a man who defines his own worth with the resilience required to survive a broken world. Healing is deeply personal and sometimes demands total reconstruction of one’s identity, values, and loyalties.
As I mentioned earlier, I was left longing more. More in-depth character development and an emotional aspect. I really did enjoy the extreme horror/splatterpunk aspects with its blood and gore. I love an intense read.
Thanks to Aiden E. Messer for gifting me an eARC of Burden. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced reader copy provided by the author.
Let me preface this by saying it was my first ride with the author, and it did not disappoint. Thank you for the opportunity.
If you’re looking for a quick, bloody read that punches you right in the gut, Aiden Messer’s Burden definitely hits the spot. It sits right on the line between dark romance and splatterpunk, but honestly, it leans way more into the splatterpunk side. It is gory, violent, and heavy on the self-deprecating thoughts, but it still manages to be a really good, fast-paced read.
Just a huge heads-up: definitely read the trigger warnings before you dive into this one because it does not pull any punches.
The main character, Fardeau, is so well-written. Their mind is a total mess, but in a way that makes complete sense given everything going on. It was honestly great to watch them get some actual character growth, which leads to—dare I say it—a happy ending.
My only real complaint is that it’s just so short! It easily could have been longer. Because it wraps up so fast, I really wish we could have gone deeper into Reaver’s side of things to see what makes him tick. It also handles BDSM dynamics really well—you get a solid, basic understanding of it without having to sit through a bunch of boring, textbook-style explanations.
Overall, if you have the stomach for a ton of blood and gore, this is a twisted little short story that is totally worth picking up.
Let me preface this by saying it was my first ride with the author, and it did not disappoint. Thank you for the opportunity.
If you’re looking for a quick, bloody read that punches you right in the gut, Aiden Messer’s Burden definitely hits the spot. It sits right on the line between dark romance and splatterpunk, but honestly, it leans way more into the splatterpunk side. It is gory, violent, and heavy on the self-deprecating thoughts, but it still manages to be a really good, fast-paced read.
Just a huge heads-up: definitely read the trigger warnings before you dive into this one because it does not pull any punches.
The main character, Fardeau, is so well-written. Their mind is a total mess, but in a way that makes complete sense given everything going on. It was honestly great to watch them get some actual character growth, which leads to—dare I say it—a happy ending.
My only real complaint is that it’s just so short! It easily could have been longer. Because it wraps up so fast, I really wish we could have gone deeper into Reaver’s side of things to see what makes him tick. It also handles BDSM dynamics really well—you get a solid, basic understanding of it without having to sit through a bunch of boring, textbook-style explanations.
Overall, if you have the stomach for a ton of blood and gore, this is a twisted little short story that is totally worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First let say that this book is takes a dive into place, that would make most people uncomfortable. So as usual i strongly suggest that trigger check and then double checked before you dive in.
The story toggles between past and present events that occurred in Fardeau's life. To say he has it ruff would be putting it lightly. Right from the beginning we realize that he has lived his life not as a person,but something that people used as they pleased. After going weeks of torture from a neighboring community, he returns home and is faced with even more torment.
With no shelter, little to no food and a endless amount of abuse physical, mental and sexual. Fardeau can't help but realize that something has changed and things he should despise now excite him. This leads him to seek out Reaver who a reputation for being the town sadist. Fardeau hoped if anyone could fill his needs and wants it would be Reaver.
It's safe to say that after the first night Reaver was more then willing to give Fardeau what he wanted, but what Fardeau did realize is Reaver was was also willing to give him so much more. Things that scared he much worse than what he originally wanted. They soon create a bond that makes them inseparable, one where they are able love and fill the void that lives inside them.
Aiden did a wonderful job with this story, and i'm greatful that was able to receive an advance copy.
The story toggles between past and present events that occurred in Fardeau's life. To say he has it ruff would be putting it lightly. Right from the beginning we realize that he has lived his life not as a person,but something that people used as they pleased. After going weeks of torture from a neighboring community, he returns home and is faced with even more torment.
With no shelter, little to no food and a endless amount of abuse physical, mental and sexual. Fardeau can't help but realize that something has changed and things he should despise now excite him. This leads him to seek out Reaver who a reputation for being the town sadist. Fardeau hoped if anyone could fill his needs and wants it would be Reaver.
It's safe to say that after the first night Reaver was more then willing to give Fardeau what he wanted, but what Fardeau did realize is Reaver was was also willing to give him so much more. Things that scared he much worse than what he originally wanted. They soon create a bond that makes them inseparable, one where they are able love and fill the void that lives inside them.
Aiden did a wonderful job with this story, and i'm greatful that was able to receive an advance copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2026
Burden by Aiden E. Messer wastes no time getting into the nitty-gritty of this story. We follow the main character Fardeau, whose name literally translates to “Burden” as he is captured by an absolute violent madman from another village and tortured for information. He survives and returns to his own village full of guilt and shame. He soon begins a complex relationship with Reaver, who is more than willing to inflict the pain that Fardeau craves.
This was a pretty short read, about 100 pages, but Aiden does pack a LOT of sex and gore into its pages. I mean, a lot. We get some really nasty scenes and some of the descriptions of the torture left me a little queasy, especially the “penile pincushion” scene. While this is a post-apocalyptic story, it’s more intimate and character driven than anything else. We really get inside of Fardeau’s mind and go through what he is experiencing. And the relationship he gets into with Reaver starts off a bit unstable, but ends up being kind of . . . heartwarming?
Burden is an intensely dark and disturbing read, yet it manages to have a lot of heart to it. It’s hard not to fall in love with these characters that Aiden creates in this chaotic world they’re just trying to survive in. Also, I absolutely love the cover of this book.
The pacing and writing are great, but I was left wanting a little more at the end. Still, this is a great read and I highly recommend this one if you’re in the mood for some queer splatter punk.
This was a pretty short read, about 100 pages, but Aiden does pack a LOT of sex and gore into its pages. I mean, a lot. We get some really nasty scenes and some of the descriptions of the torture left me a little queasy, especially the “penile pincushion” scene. While this is a post-apocalyptic story, it’s more intimate and character driven than anything else. We really get inside of Fardeau’s mind and go through what he is experiencing. And the relationship he gets into with Reaver starts off a bit unstable, but ends up being kind of . . . heartwarming?
Burden is an intensely dark and disturbing read, yet it manages to have a lot of heart to it. It’s hard not to fall in love with these characters that Aiden creates in this chaotic world they’re just trying to survive in. Also, I absolutely love the cover of this book.
The pacing and writing are great, but I was left wanting a little more at the end. Still, this is a great read and I highly recommend this one if you’re in the mood for some queer splatter punk.
June 29, 2026
Burden
Firstly just LOOK at that cover 😮💨 Secondly, I did have to put this down a few times even though it’s a short read the beginning is quite tough to get through with all the abuse and torture but the ending is what made it for me!
This book drops us straight in to Fardeau being kidnapped & tortured. It dips in & out of past & present. His past is full of brutal torture and his present is full of emotional trauma.
Fardeau is struggling with himself after all he’s been through he feels like he’s a burden just like the name he was given. He wants the trauma to stop plaguing his mind & inevitably he goes to Reaver to hopefully end it.
But as much as Reaver enjoys handing out the pain & torture he takes pity on Fardeau and sees something in him that makes him want to protect & care for him. He shows him aftercare, something he’s never had & thats when things start to change…
Perhaps he’s not a burden after all?
If there is one thing about Aiden it’s that the stories are always hella descriptive!! Like eye watering, wincingly (is that a real word?!) descriptive & I’m here for it! I will say double check your triggers for this one, it’s emotionally HEAVY!
I wanted to hug Fardeau so bad, but his ending was the best possible outcome for him! 🥹
Releasing 9th July! Please don’t go into this blind, especially if you’re not used to this genre ( I am & it was still a lot for me) Thank you again Aiden for the ARC, it’s a pleasure as always 🤎
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly just LOOK at that cover 😮💨 Secondly, I did have to put this down a few times even though it’s a short read the beginning is quite tough to get through with all the abuse and torture but the ending is what made it for me!
This book drops us straight in to Fardeau being kidnapped & tortured. It dips in & out of past & present. His past is full of brutal torture and his present is full of emotional trauma.
Fardeau is struggling with himself after all he’s been through he feels like he’s a burden just like the name he was given. He wants the trauma to stop plaguing his mind & inevitably he goes to Reaver to hopefully end it.
But as much as Reaver enjoys handing out the pain & torture he takes pity on Fardeau and sees something in him that makes him want to protect & care for him. He shows him aftercare, something he’s never had & thats when things start to change…
Perhaps he’s not a burden after all?
If there is one thing about Aiden it’s that the stories are always hella descriptive!! Like eye watering, wincingly (is that a real word?!) descriptive & I’m here for it! I will say double check your triggers for this one, it’s emotionally HEAVY!
I wanted to hug Fardeau so bad, but his ending was the best possible outcome for him! 🥹
Releasing 9th July! Please don’t go into this blind, especially if you’re not used to this genre ( I am & it was still a lot for me) Thank you again Aiden for the ARC, it’s a pleasure as always 🤎
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
<< Received this as an ARC from the author (thank you, Mr. Messer) >>
I agree with Jacqueline Robins' review for the most part that it felt a bit too short.. specially the climax (revenge part) and ending.
And it's more on splatterpunk/gore genre.
But i gave it a higher review because...
☆ Even though there's a lot of description, it's not tedious to read. It played like a short movie in my head.
☆ Fardeau's character is well explored for 2/3rds of the book. (Like Jacqueline , i also stopped connecting with him... at the ending but since it's only at the ending, that's a good thing)
☆i quite like the pace. I just wish the revenge and ending was a bit longer
☆no typos whatsoever.
☆light read, can be read in one seating
☆HEA (Oh wait, am i allowed to say that?)
Some comments:
■ Reaver and Morgane are 'good' to Fardeau ♡♡♡
■ Fardeau really needs a hug ;-;
■ the intimacy is hot. Like scalding hot (i just wish we had more insight on Reaver's POV.. i mean we do when he talks about it but we need more ahhhhh)
PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGERS
because it's really graphic. So don't read if you can't stomach it.
But i will definitely be reading the author's other books ♡♡♡
I agree with Jacqueline Robins' review for the most part that it felt a bit too short.. specially the climax (revenge part) and ending.
And it's more on splatterpunk/gore genre.
But i gave it a higher review because...
☆ Even though there's a lot of description, it's not tedious to read. It played like a short movie in my head.
☆ Fardeau's character is well explored for 2/3rds of the book. (Like Jacqueline , i also stopped connecting with him... at the ending but since it's only at the ending, that's a good thing)
☆i quite like the pace. I just wish the revenge and ending was a bit longer
☆no typos whatsoever.
☆light read, can be read in one seating
☆HEA (Oh wait, am i allowed to say that?)
Some comments:
■ Reaver and Morgane are 'good' to Fardeau ♡♡♡
■ Fardeau really needs a hug ;-;
■ the intimacy is hot. Like scalding hot (i just wish we had more insight on Reaver's POV.. i mean we do when he talks about it but we need more ahhhhh)
PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGERS
because it's really graphic. So don't read if you can't stomach it.
But i will definitely be reading the author's other books ♡♡♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book that I had read from this Author, and it did not disappoint.
It is a "short" splatterpunk/body horror story with male on male BDSM.
It is fast paced.
(Check trigger warnings before reading)
Fardeau aka "Burden" was abused, unwanted and discarded as a child.
Then later, in order to eat - to survive, he has to offer himself sexually. He is made to feel worthless.
He gets captured and tortured
The violence and sexual acts is this book are detailed.
Once he manages to escape, he ends up entering into a Saddistic/masochistic B.D.S.M relationship, discussions are had regarding consent, boundaries and safe words, there is also aftercare.
I appreciated that these dynamics were incorporated into the story.
They did fall in love, however, it does not go into this element of the story much at all.
The MMCs then seek revenge on the 3 main people that have abused Burden.
If you like to read trauma/abuse, graphic sexual acts and even more graphic violence, then this book is definitely you.
*Spoiler* - The ripping off bare skin with teeth was a nice touch.
It is a "short" splatterpunk/body horror story with male on male BDSM.
It is fast paced.
(Check trigger warnings before reading)
Fardeau aka "Burden" was abused, unwanted and discarded as a child.
Then later, in order to eat - to survive, he has to offer himself sexually. He is made to feel worthless.
He gets captured and tortured
The violence and sexual acts is this book are detailed.
Once he manages to escape, he ends up entering into a Saddistic/masochistic B.D.S.M relationship, discussions are had regarding consent, boundaries and safe words, there is also aftercare.
I appreciated that these dynamics were incorporated into the story.
They did fall in love, however, it does not go into this element of the story much at all.
The MMCs then seek revenge on the 3 main people that have abused Burden.
If you like to read trauma/abuse, graphic sexual acts and even more graphic violence, then this book is definitely you.
*Spoiler* - The ripping off bare skin with teeth was a nice touch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Burden was a much different read than I expected. Going in, I thought I was picking up a dark romance, but it felt much more like a splatterpunk story with romantic elements. As someone who enjoys horror, I ended up really liking that aspect of the book.
The story centres around a young man carrying the weight of past trauma, and watching his journey unfold was both unsettling and heartbreaking at times. I especially appreciated that despite the darker subject matter, there was clear attention given to consent, trust, and communication within the relationship.
My only real critique is that I wanted more time with the characters. I enjoyed the story and was invested in what happened, but I would have loved a little more character development to strengthen the emotional impact.
Overall, Burden is a dark, disturbing, and surprisingly emotional read. If you enjoy horror that pushes boundaries while still exploring relationships and healing, this is definitely worth checking out.
Burden was a much different read than I expected. Going in, I thought I was picking up a dark romance, but it felt much more like a splatterpunk story with romantic elements. As someone who enjoys horror, I ended up really liking that aspect of the book.
The story centres around a young man carrying the weight of past trauma, and watching his journey unfold was both unsettling and heartbreaking at times. I especially appreciated that despite the darker subject matter, there was clear attention given to consent, trust, and communication within the relationship.
My only real critique is that I wanted more time with the characters. I enjoyed the story and was invested in what happened, but I would have loved a little more character development to strengthen the emotional impact.
Overall, Burden is a dark, disturbing, and surprisingly emotional read. If you enjoy horror that pushes boundaries while still exploring relationships and healing, this is definitely worth checking out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a review of an advance reader copy I received from the author. Please note I gave this book 3.75/5 stars but that option is not available on Goodreads.
First of all- I was so thrilled to see I’d been chosen to read this before it came out! I had never participated in something like this before!
Getting to the actual review, I did not expect Burden to be so close to the splatterpunk genre that I have dabbled in reading from time to time. However, it did just that, and mixed it with dark romance. I feel much better about it than I do about most splatterpunk novels- and I found myself endeared by the main characters even though I feel like I maybe should’ve been scared. I also did not expect murder to be a part of this book- and yet it went there. Surprising in a way that left me a little confused but not in a bad way.
If you’re looking for a quick and intensely dark little romance then this would be a great book for you. I would read it again and I would recommend it to my friends who like blurring lines between horror and romance in media.
First of all- I was so thrilled to see I’d been chosen to read this before it came out! I had never participated in something like this before!
Getting to the actual review, I did not expect Burden to be so close to the splatterpunk genre that I have dabbled in reading from time to time. However, it did just that, and mixed it with dark romance. I feel much better about it than I do about most splatterpunk novels- and I found myself endeared by the main characters even though I feel like I maybe should’ve been scared. I also did not expect murder to be a part of this book- and yet it went there. Surprising in a way that left me a little confused but not in a bad way.
If you’re looking for a quick and intensely dark little romance then this would be a great book for you. I would read it again and I would recommend it to my friends who like blurring lines between horror and romance in media.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2026
Arc Review Spoiler free
Thank you to Aiden E Messer for sending me a copy of their new book. This is my second book to read of theirs.
Burden was a interesting ride through a masochistic story of desire and want in an apocalyptic setting.
I admit there was times I had to stop because I was uncomfortable, which works for a masochistic sex ride of desire and pleasure.
The gore mixed with the masochistic sexual torture was fun. Sexual books aren’t my thing but I surprisingly enjoyed this. I do wish it was longer because I enjoyed it very much.
This story follows a young man in a world long gone. Burden the main character is kidnapped/ tortured and slowly finds his taste for pain, which leads him down a path to find Reaver who’s a hunter in his village. Reaver is a sadist person with a taste for blood. This story follows their story of sexual depravity.
Gore: 4/5
Story: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
Description: 4/5
Total: 4/5
The book will be released in a couple of hours so I would say pick up a copy and support the author!
Thank you to Aiden E Messer for sending me a copy of their new book. This is my second book to read of theirs.
Burden was a interesting ride through a masochistic story of desire and want in an apocalyptic setting.
I admit there was times I had to stop because I was uncomfortable, which works for a masochistic sex ride of desire and pleasure.
The gore mixed with the masochistic sexual torture was fun. Sexual books aren’t my thing but I surprisingly enjoyed this. I do wish it was longer because I enjoyed it very much.
This story follows a young man in a world long gone. Burden the main character is kidnapped/ tortured and slowly finds his taste for pain, which leads him down a path to find Reaver who’s a hunter in his village. Reaver is a sadist person with a taste for blood. This story follows their story of sexual depravity.
Gore: 4/5
Story: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
Description: 4/5
Total: 4/5
The book will be released in a couple of hours so I would say pick up a copy and support the author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was after something a bit darker. Saw this author offering ARC readings and thought why not. First time reviewing a book so I apologise in advance.
I have not seen anything by this author but was aware he/she/they/them/who writes splatterpunk (insta search) and I was not disappointed. Now be aware it starts as it means to go on, the torture was torturing but the story between Fardeau and Reaver was really lovely (sorry but it was). True sadist/masochist relationship, it was exactly how I imagine it to truly be.
It was short which I was sad about after a while, I would have loved more backstory to the MMCs and would have enjoyed more of their relationship building. All in all if you like a bit of depravity and true detailed torture, with a thrown in romance for fun then give it a read. It is NOT a dark romance, it is so much more. Only 4 stars because it did not hit every emotion but I was happy with what it min the less.
I have not seen anything by this author but was aware he/she/they/them/who writes splatterpunk (insta search) and I was not disappointed. Now be aware it starts as it means to go on, the torture was torturing but the story between Fardeau and Reaver was really lovely (sorry but it was). True sadist/masochist relationship, it was exactly how I imagine it to truly be.
It was short which I was sad about after a while, I would have loved more backstory to the MMCs and would have enjoyed more of their relationship building. All in all if you like a bit of depravity and true detailed torture, with a thrown in romance for fun then give it a read. It is NOT a dark romance, it is so much more. Only 4 stars because it did not hit every emotion but I was happy with what it min the less.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love body horror, revenge, torture,psychological tournament and bdsm with a hit of romance then this novella is definitely for you.
It explores the MMCs feeling of unworthiness, neglect and abuse that he was subjected to his whole life while also dealing with his mind and body connecting pain and pleasure as the same thing.
His desire for death magnifies his desire for pleasure so much so that at times he blurs the lines between extreme torture and tenderness.
I would have loved to see some more build up around the post apocalyptic world as well as the revange scenes being savoured and prolonged a little more to give the MMC the reckoning he truly deserved.
But all in all i loved this story, i absolutely adore the character artwork as well as the cover. This novella is something you will definitely want more of and once you pick it up you won't want to put it down until you have finished.
It explores the MMCs feeling of unworthiness, neglect and abuse that he was subjected to his whole life while also dealing with his mind and body connecting pain and pleasure as the same thing.
His desire for death magnifies his desire for pleasure so much so that at times he blurs the lines between extreme torture and tenderness.
I would have loved to see some more build up around the post apocalyptic world as well as the revange scenes being savoured and prolonged a little more to give the MMC the reckoning he truly deserved.
But all in all i loved this story, i absolutely adore the character artwork as well as the cover. This novella is something you will definitely want more of and once you pick it up you won't want to put it down until you have finished.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Burden by Aiden E. Messer
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Damn! An intense, dark & erotic horror novella!!
Fardeau has had a terrible life and no one seems to want him. He’s lived with so much rejection and trauma since he was born. One day, he finds himself captured by a neighboring community, who thinks he’s a spy and tortures him horribly. He eventually manages to escape and his life changes drastically once he makes it back to his village.
This story is spicy, brutal and touching! There’s a lot going on in this short story from torture, S&M, to love. This is a fast read that I couldn’t put down. It’s well written and truly a fierce and beautiful story.
Thank you to Aiden E. Messer for an arc copy of this fantastic book! This author is an automatic read for me!
*This novella comes out July 9th and I recommend it!!*
🩸🔪🌶️🔪🩸🔪🌶️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Damn! An intense, dark & erotic horror novella!!
Fardeau has had a terrible life and no one seems to want him. He’s lived with so much rejection and trauma since he was born. One day, he finds himself captured by a neighboring community, who thinks he’s a spy and tortures him horribly. He eventually manages to escape and his life changes drastically once he makes it back to his village.
This story is spicy, brutal and touching! There’s a lot going on in this short story from torture, S&M, to love. This is a fast read that I couldn’t put down. It’s well written and truly a fierce and beautiful story.
Thank you to Aiden E. Messer for an arc copy of this fantastic book! This author is an automatic read for me!
*This novella comes out July 9th and I recommend it!!*
🩸🔪🌶️🔪🩸🔪🌶️
June 30, 2026
Dearest Gentle Reader,
Aiden E Messer is a new to me author. While I’ve actually had a few of their books on my TBR for a while, this is my first time reading their work.
I was very pleased to have received an ARC copy of this book, as I’m otherwise unsure that I would have actually read this one. I am happy to report, dear reader, that I couldn’t put this book down (which is saying something considering the content)!
Messer is really talented at writing in a way that immerses the reader. I often felt like I was the one being tortured. I must admit, there were a few times the flashbacks became so detailed and graphic that I found myself getting squeamish. Messer’s talent doesn’t end with exposition, however. They write characters that readers will love (or love to hate).
Fardeau is a very endearing character. I think it would have been easy for Messer to write him as a pathetic, one dimensional character, but he’s anything but that. He has a quiet power we get to see as the story progresses. And Reaver is the perfect foil to his docile nature. Reaver is a lovely blend of soft dom/shadow daddy.
I’m a big fan of BDSM and really enjoyed the sub/dom dynamic between Fardeau and Reaver. I really enjoyed how, through Reavers domination, Fardeau is empowered. Giving in entirely to his own masochist tendencies, he grows from victim to Victor.
This is a really captivating story with terrific pacing and a sadistically satisfying conclusion.
If you like your MM romance with a dash of torture porn, this one is definitely for you!
Your Esteemed Reviewer, Lady M
Aiden E Messer is a new to me author. While I’ve actually had a few of their books on my TBR for a while, this is my first time reading their work.
I was very pleased to have received an ARC copy of this book, as I’m otherwise unsure that I would have actually read this one. I am happy to report, dear reader, that I couldn’t put this book down (which is saying something considering the content)!
Messer is really talented at writing in a way that immerses the reader. I often felt like I was the one being tortured. I must admit, there were a few times the flashbacks became so detailed and graphic that I found myself getting squeamish. Messer’s talent doesn’t end with exposition, however. They write characters that readers will love (or love to hate).
Fardeau is a very endearing character. I think it would have been easy for Messer to write him as a pathetic, one dimensional character, but he’s anything but that. He has a quiet power we get to see as the story progresses. And Reaver is the perfect foil to his docile nature. Reaver is a lovely blend of soft dom/shadow daddy.
I’m a big fan of BDSM and really enjoyed the sub/dom dynamic between Fardeau and Reaver. I really enjoyed how, through Reavers domination, Fardeau is empowered. Giving in entirely to his own masochist tendencies, he grows from victim to Victor.
This is a really captivating story with terrific pacing and a sadistically satisfying conclusion.
If you like your MM romance with a dash of torture porn, this one is definitely for you!
Your Esteemed Reviewer, Lady M
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to start off by saying that I did enjoy this book. I liked the characters, I liked the story. My issue is that it was too........ok, so I can't think of a word for it, I want to say shallow, but that sounds mean and I don't want to be that.
It would, in my opinion, benefit from being a longer read. That way, we get more involved with the characters. Everything was mostly surface interactions, and I prefer it when you find out more. More about the imprisonment and torture, more about what happened when Burden met with the Elders when he got back home, more about his parents and the reasons they deserved to die. Just more.
All that being said, this is just my opinion and should in no way influence your decision to read this. Like I said at the start, I did enjoy it. I just prefer my books to be longer, with more depth to them.
It would, in my opinion, benefit from being a longer read. That way, we get more involved with the characters. Everything was mostly surface interactions, and I prefer it when you find out more. More about the imprisonment and torture, more about what happened when Burden met with the Elders when he got back home, more about his parents and the reasons they deserved to die. Just more.
All that being said, this is just my opinion and should in no way influence your decision to read this. Like I said at the start, I did enjoy it. I just prefer my books to be longer, with more depth to them.
July 9, 2026
This was my first book by Aiden, and I'm so glad I read it. I'll be reading more of their work. This book follows a young man named Fardeau, which means Burden. He was held captive by a rival village and was subjected to torture for information about his own village. He is let loose and is a social pariah in his village as a result. He's seen as a traitor. One man in the town is willing to welcome Fardeau in: the mysterious Reaver. It's rumored that Reaver is a sadist, and he's the only one who can give Fardeau the pain he craves. The book jumps right into the gore and violence, and it doesn't let up. From start to finish, it's a bloody and wild story that keeps you gripped until you read the last sentence, and it sticks with you after your time in the book is through! I loved this one and can't wait to see what else Aiden has planned for us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It had been such a long time since I last picked up an erotic horror romance, and this book reminded me exactly why I fell in love with the genre in the first place.
Not because of the horror itself, but because of the beautiful, twisted way two broken souls find each other and become whole. There’s something incredibly special about watching a couple complement one another, heal each other's wounds (kinda?), and become the missing piece of their perfectly chaotic puzzle and their slightly unhinged other half.
Despite the darkness, the pain, and the torture woven throughout the story, this book was absolutely captivating from beginning to end. The kind of romance scenes felt intense, emotional, and surprisingly tender beneath all the horror.
If you love dark, disturbing stories with a heart hidden beneath the shadows, this one is an absolute gem. Highly, highly recommended.
Not because of the horror itself, but because of the beautiful, twisted way two broken souls find each other and become whole. There’s something incredibly special about watching a couple complement one another, heal each other's wounds (kinda?), and become the missing piece of their perfectly chaotic puzzle and their slightly unhinged other half.
Despite the darkness, the pain, and the torture woven throughout the story, this book was absolutely captivating from beginning to end. The kind of romance scenes felt intense, emotional, and surprisingly tender beneath all the horror.
If you love dark, disturbing stories with a heart hidden beneath the shadows, this one is an absolute gem. Highly, highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, I want to thank you for this ARC read!🖤
The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world and follows the main character, Fardeau, whose name translates to “Burden.” He is rejected by everyone around him, which contributes to his self-hatred and desire to harm himself.
Personally, I expected more detail and stronger plot development, because from the very beginning everything moved very quickly, which made the story feel a little superficial, even though it touched on very serious themes. It was a lil difficult for me to fully connect with the characters’ relationships and understand them on a deeper level😔
However, overall, it was still a nice read and very quick to get through✨
The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world and follows the main character, Fardeau, whose name translates to “Burden.” He is rejected by everyone around him, which contributes to his self-hatred and desire to harm himself.
Personally, I expected more detail and stronger plot development, because from the very beginning everything moved very quickly, which made the story feel a little superficial, even though it touched on very serious themes. It was a lil difficult for me to fully connect with the characters’ relationships and understand them on a deeper level😔
However, overall, it was still a nice read and very quick to get through✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Burden by Aiden E Messer
Fardeau our MMC is hated, despised, a burden. But at the end of the world another mouth to feed is just that a burden.
After being worked and treated like a slave, Fardeau is captured and brutally tortured by a neighbouring village.
What’s next for him will the scars ever heal?
Leaving him confused, homeless and broken knocking on scary hunter Reaver’s door to end his miserable existence. Will Reaver destroy him just like his captor did or far worse?
This is a post apocalyptic MM, extreme novella that I extremely enjoyed! This is my first in this genre and first by this incredible Author. If you looking for something extreme to break up that reading slump this is the one for you.
Again this is extreme so please check your triggers.
Fardeau our MMC is hated, despised, a burden. But at the end of the world another mouth to feed is just that a burden.
After being worked and treated like a slave, Fardeau is captured and brutally tortured by a neighbouring village.
What’s next for him will the scars ever heal?
Leaving him confused, homeless and broken knocking on scary hunter Reaver’s door to end his miserable existence. Will Reaver destroy him just like his captor did or far worse?
This is a post apocalyptic MM, extreme novella that I extremely enjoyed! This is my first in this genre and first by this incredible Author. If you looking for something extreme to break up that reading slump this is the one for you.
Again this is extreme so please check your triggers.
June 27, 2026
This is my first really touch of erotic horror romance. This is definitely deep definitely disturbing. Definitely erotic. I love that. This was an MM romance as well. You had a person who was shunned by his community had to pillage and get food for himself so he doesn’t starve sleep outside. Gets captured and tortured and in the torture he also gets assaulted in sexual ways. He then begins to develop a type of kink where he likes pain with his sex. And when I talk about some of the things that take place like dismembering of bodies, it just was like wow. This was definitely thick and twisted so when he does escape, his capture ends up back at the village, he is desperate for this sensation and feeling again. And he seeks out probably the worst guy in the village. Well little do you know that guy in the village has the softest heart for him takes him under his wings and answers to all his desires.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one took me a minute to read, not because it's bad, but because it wasn't what I was expecting. This is my fault. It's been a while since I read Messer, and at the time, they were writing extreme horror revenge type stories. Burden is more of a (very) dark romance. Fardeau is captured by a rival camp and tortured, awakening dark desires in him. He escapes, but he feels like shit and seeks out a notorious hunter in his camp in hopes that he will be put out of his misery. And this is where the man whose name strikes fear in all who hear it helps the man named Burden begin to heal.
If you like your romance dark and laced with graphic violence, this is a treat.
If you like your romance dark and laced with graphic violence, this is a treat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author:
Sometimes our trauma makes us "stronger" other times it gives us weird kinks. Fardeau got the lubed end of the stick. After being captured and tortured his already shit life got shittier. Desperate for punishment to relieve him of the shame he feels , our protag knocks on the door of the village sadist, Reaver.
What ensues is some hot sex, and bloody revenge.
Although I really enjoyed this and I know it's a novella but I still wish we could have gotten a bit more insight of the apocalyptic world they reside in. I also wish we could have experienced the growth of their relationship a bit more.
Sometimes our trauma makes us "stronger" other times it gives us weird kinks. Fardeau got the lubed end of the stick. After being captured and tortured his already shit life got shittier. Desperate for punishment to relieve him of the shame he feels , our protag knocks on the door of the village sadist, Reaver.
What ensues is some hot sex, and bloody revenge.
Although I really enjoyed this and I know it's a novella but I still wish we could have gotten a bit more insight of the apocalyptic world they reside in. I also wish we could have experienced the growth of their relationship a bit more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fardeau’s name means Burden, and that’s exactly what everyone treats him as. Aiden E. Messer perfectly shows the effects of dealing with traumatic experiences and the mental toll that Fardeau has been dealing with. It breaks your heart to read how he constantly waits for the other shoe to drop and doubts every act of kindness and love he’d receive. Though, it’s not all sad and gloomy, as Fardeau soon finds himself at Reaver’s door and thus begins his journey towards exacting a bloody and brutal revenge on those who wronged him. In the end, he finds a love he never thought he’d have, as well as finally accepting the kindness and love he’d always thought he was undeserving of
July 9, 2026
*ARC Review*
Firstly thank you for allowing me the opportunity to get an ARC of this book, I've read some of their work before and I'm happy to say this will definitely be in my top 3.
As always I'm greedy with Aidens work I want more, but as we've all heard it's never good to want too much of a good thing.
Personally I love a good revenge story I do wish that part of the story was just a tad bit longer but even as is it's still amazing. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and characters.
This is a short erotic extreme horror mm novel that was dark but also emotional. As always please make sure you check the trigger warnings.
Firstly thank you for allowing me the opportunity to get an ARC of this book, I've read some of their work before and I'm happy to say this will definitely be in my top 3.
As always I'm greedy with Aidens work I want more, but as we've all heard it's never good to want too much of a good thing.
Personally I love a good revenge story I do wish that part of the story was just a tad bit longer but even as is it's still amazing. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and characters.
This is a short erotic extreme horror mm novel that was dark but also emotional. As always please make sure you check the trigger warnings.
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