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Her Ravening Heart
A folk monster horror romance novella for fans of Meg Smitherman's Swallow, Fervor, and Keri Lake's Anathema.
Every five years, the god of life demands his tithe.
A bride.
A beloved for the eternal spring.
An end to winter’s grasp on Belagora.
Senka was raised watching the solemn parade to the altar, the maiden in red laying herself down in supplication. In submission.
But when blue hyacinth blooms in the snow outside Senka’s home, she knows she’s next. Defying the god’s call means dooming Belagora to eternal winter, and in a village built on faith, the roots of fear run deep.
Don’t ask questions. Obey. Revere. All prices Senka is unwilling to pay.
But as the god’s hold on Senka tightens, the line between desire and dread cuts paper thin. A wicked hunger blooms inside her, threatening everything she’s ever believed about herself.
But Senka made a promise.
She will not submit—not even to a ravening god.
Every five years, the god of life demands his tithe.
A bride.
A beloved for the eternal spring.
An end to winter’s grasp on Belagora.
Senka was raised watching the solemn parade to the altar, the maiden in red laying herself down in supplication. In submission.
But when blue hyacinth blooms in the snow outside Senka’s home, she knows she’s next. Defying the god’s call means dooming Belagora to eternal winter, and in a village built on faith, the roots of fear run deep.
Don’t ask questions. Obey. Revere. All prices Senka is unwilling to pay.
But as the god’s hold on Senka tightens, the line between desire and dread cuts paper thin. A wicked hunger blooms inside her, threatening everything she’s ever believed about herself.
But Senka made a promise.
She will not submit—not even to a ravening god.
- GenresHorror
Unknown Binding
Expected publication November 17, 2026
About the author
A.J. Vrana
11 books348 followersA. J. Vrana is a Serbian-Canadian academic and writer from Toronto, Canada. She lives with her rescue cats, Moonstone and Peanut Butter, who nest in her window-side bookshelf and cast judgmental stares at nearby pigeons. She holds a PhD from the University of Toronto, and her doctoral research examines the supernatural in Japanese and former Yugoslavian literature and its relationship to modern nation-building and historiography. A. J. Vrana’s published works include the Indie Author Project-winning Chaos Cycle Duology: The Hollow Gods (2020) and The Echoed Realm (2021), the companion novel Wildblood (2024), two romantic short story collections, Stray Feathers (2022) and Wayward (2026), and the horror-romance novella, Her Ravening Heart (2026). Her short fiction includes “These Silent Walls” (2020), printed in Three Crows Magazine, “Sapling,” (2023) from Clan Destine Press’ horror anthology This Fresh Hell, and “The Undertow” in Percy Hart’s anthology, The Heart of Elder Horrors . She writes at the intersection of romance, fantasy, and horror. Many of her works are infused with South Slavic folklore.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
October 29, 2026
SMASH.
Good for her.
Full RTC.
Good for her.
Full RTC.
Read
July 10, 2026Hello my feral friends! Just popping in to say... I HAVE A NEW BOOK! Her Ravening Heart is a monster horror romance novella that follows Senka, a young woman living in a remote mountain village that ritualistically marries a young woman to the god of life every five years in exchange for a brief end to winter. It's creepy, it's folky, and it's romantic in its own macabre way.
Here are some things you can expect:
🌺Monster x Sacrifice
🖤Deadly sex magic
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺Monster f*cking
🖤Horny plants
🌺Arranged marriage (sort of lol)
🖤Left for dead
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
🌺Sacrificial lamb
🖤Personal desire vs social obligation
🌺Scaroused
Here are some things you can expect:
🌺Monster x Sacrifice
🖤Deadly sex magic
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺Monster f*cking
🖤Horny plants
🌺Arranged marriage (sort of lol)
🖤Left for dead
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
🌺Sacrificial lamb
🖤Personal desire vs social obligation
🌺Scaroused
November 2, 2026
An enthralling horror romance novella that’s perfect for spooky season! A female offering for the god of life + mothman + plant spice = intriguing read!
August 30, 2026
just the type of creepy and unsettling read i wanted whilst being packed with female rage and revenge
October 19, 2026
Plant play was not something I thought I would be reading, but here we are (and I'm not mad about it). This is a short horror romance with some feminine rage and some kinky times with not only with the god of life, but also with a plant. I was definitely intrigued. The writing was great and this was a captivating story told in roughly 100 pages. Perfect for Spooky Season.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted book.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted book.
October 21, 2026
"For the girls with darkened souls and hungry hearts. They don't deserve you."
Under 200 pages of pure monstrous, creepy fun, and I could have happily read SO much more!
Every five years, the god of life demands a bride to bring spring back to Belagora. When blue hyacinths bloom outside Senka's home, she knows she's been chosen as the next sacrifice. But unlike the brides before her, Senka has absolutely no intention of submitting to a god, no matter the consequences.
For such a short story, this was SO captivating! The author has really packed a punch in such a short story. Dark, unsettling and absolutely fuelled by feminine rage. I loved Senka's defiance and her determination to question the village's rituals rather than blindly accept her fate. She's surrounded by people who have accepted these traditions without question, but Senka refuses to be another obedient sacrifice.
The folk horror atmosphere was brilliant and so interesting to see how the village's devotion to its god is so deeply rooted in fear. There's something so creepy (yet very realistic) about traditions being upheld simply because that's how things have always been done, regardless of who suffers for them.
The monster smut was so fun and the rather spicy plant activity... that I was NOT expecting. I'm not even going to pretend I found it too weird, because I had a great time with it.
"A rebellious girl may be sainted a hero after death, but she usually dies a villain."
If you're looking for a quick, deliciously dark and wonderfully weird read this spooky season, let it be this one!
🖤 Folk horror & monster romance
🖤 Feminine rage
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Arranged marriage
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Spicy plants
For my fellow Fervor by Meg Smitherman fans, this one is for you!
"If the god of life desired a consort, who better than a goddess of death?"
Thank you to NerdFam for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Under 200 pages of pure monstrous, creepy fun, and I could have happily read SO much more!
Every five years, the god of life demands a bride to bring spring back to Belagora. When blue hyacinths bloom outside Senka's home, she knows she's been chosen as the next sacrifice. But unlike the brides before her, Senka has absolutely no intention of submitting to a god, no matter the consequences.
For such a short story, this was SO captivating! The author has really packed a punch in such a short story. Dark, unsettling and absolutely fuelled by feminine rage. I loved Senka's defiance and her determination to question the village's rituals rather than blindly accept her fate. She's surrounded by people who have accepted these traditions without question, but Senka refuses to be another obedient sacrifice.
The folk horror atmosphere was brilliant and so interesting to see how the village's devotion to its god is so deeply rooted in fear. There's something so creepy (yet very realistic) about traditions being upheld simply because that's how things have always been done, regardless of who suffers for them.
The monster smut was so fun and the rather spicy plant activity... that I was NOT expecting. I'm not even going to pretend I found it too weird, because I had a great time with it.
"A rebellious girl may be sainted a hero after death, but she usually dies a villain."
If you're looking for a quick, deliciously dark and wonderfully weird read this spooky season, let it be this one!
🖤 Folk horror & monster romance
🖤 Feminine rage
🖤 Forced proximity
🖤 Arranged marriage
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Spicy plants
For my fellow Fervor by Meg Smitherman fans, this one is for you!
"If the god of life desired a consort, who better than a goddess of death?"
Thank you to NerdFam for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2026
I consider myself still new to Horror genre. I've read a handful of books from the Horror genre but have enjoyed a majority of the ones I've read. This was the perfect level of horror for me.
This was a perfect short read! The pacing of the story was done really well. It didn't progress too fast considering it's a novella, the progression was perfect.
I loved how curious and suspicious Senka was of the villages tradition. Her questions were all so valid and realistic as well.
"𝑨 𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏."
The feminine rage in this story was amazing!! I didn't see this ending coming and I didn't know that plant play was something I'd experience but it was everything! Senka tried and tried and finally she just gave into the rage and it was beautiful.
This was a perfect short read! The pacing of the story was done really well. It didn't progress too fast considering it's a novella, the progression was perfect.
I loved how curious and suspicious Senka was of the villages tradition. Her questions were all so valid and realistic as well.
"𝑨 𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒂 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒐 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒂 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏."
The feminine rage in this story was amazing!! I didn't see this ending coming and I didn't know that plant play was something I'd experience but it was everything! Senka tried and tried and finally she just gave into the rage and it was beautiful.
September 17, 2026
✨Her Ravening Heart✨
I LOVE me an AJ Vrana book, so when she puts something out, I immediately snatch it up! HRH is an unhinged horror novella with monster romance + spice, botanical magic, religious cult vibes + sacrifices, feminine rage, her villain origin story, and a HEA for the main couple 😉🙃.
I truly don’t know how AJ packed so much in so little time! This novella was rich, intense, lovely, emotional, empowering, and dark. It had twists and turns I did not expect and kept me glued to the pages.
If you’re in need of a spooky, little read with monster romance, a FMC choosing herself and others over social norms and duties, and Halloween vibes, then go preorder HRH right now!! And also, read everything else AJ has out. 🤭
Once again, it’s such an honor to be an arc reader for you, AJ! I enjoy all your books so much.
I LOVE me an AJ Vrana book, so when she puts something out, I immediately snatch it up! HRH is an unhinged horror novella with monster romance + spice, botanical magic, religious cult vibes + sacrifices, feminine rage, her villain origin story, and a HEA for the main couple 😉🙃.
I truly don’t know how AJ packed so much in so little time! This novella was rich, intense, lovely, emotional, empowering, and dark. It had twists and turns I did not expect and kept me glued to the pages.
If you’re in need of a spooky, little read with monster romance, a FMC choosing herself and others over social norms and duties, and Halloween vibes, then go preorder HRH right now!! And also, read everything else AJ has out. 🤭
Once again, it’s such an honor to be an arc reader for you, AJ! I enjoy all your books so much.
October 23, 2026
This is a short read, that was intense from the beginning to the end. This book is a monster romance and the FMC started a whole change reaction by l looking back during a ritual when she was not allowed to. This then made her try to convince the village that sending women to their death is not the right thing to do. However it backfires on her, and then she is sent to appease the monster. The monster is the God of spring and needs a bride who is willing. The FMC fights every step of the way. Even though this was a very short read, it was full of plot and became very spicy near the end. Thank you Net Galley for an ARC for my honest review.
September 3, 2026
Short horror monster romance with forced proximity, feminine rage and horny plants.
I really enjoyed the haunted, creepy feeling of the story. Great, short, unique spooky season read.
“Her solace, found in a monster. And who knew a monster could be so beautiful.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
I really enjoyed the haunted, creepy feeling of the story. Great, short, unique spooky season read.
“Her solace, found in a monster. And who knew a monster could be so beautiful.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
October 17, 2026
Thank you to TheNerdFam for providing the opportunity to read this ARC of Her Ravening Heart.
Not my usual read, but absolutely worth stepping outside my comfort zone for!
Dark, twisty and filled with a simmering rage against a system that refuses to change.
What really stood out to me was the frustration of watching someone fight so hard to challenge what everyone else has simply accepted as the way things are. Every attempt at change feels like running headfirst into a brick wall, and you can’t help but get angry right alongside Senka.
There’s something incredibly unsettling about watching people cling to tradition, even when the cracks in that system are staring them right in the face.
For such a short read, there is A LOT happening. It’s dark, uncomfortable at times, and it doesn’t waste pages getting to the point. I was completely invested in seeing how it would all unravel.
Short, sharp and wonderfully unexpected. This was a fantastic introduction to a genre I wouldn’t normally reach for, and I’m so glad I stepped outside my comfort zone!
And a little bonus? A.J. Vrana is a Canadian author! 🇨🇦🖤 Always love discovering and supporting Canadian talent!
Not my usual read, but absolutely worth stepping outside my comfort zone for!
Dark, twisty and filled with a simmering rage against a system that refuses to change.
What really stood out to me was the frustration of watching someone fight so hard to challenge what everyone else has simply accepted as the way things are. Every attempt at change feels like running headfirst into a brick wall, and you can’t help but get angry right alongside Senka.
There’s something incredibly unsettling about watching people cling to tradition, even when the cracks in that system are staring them right in the face.
For such a short read, there is A LOT happening. It’s dark, uncomfortable at times, and it doesn’t waste pages getting to the point. I was completely invested in seeing how it would all unravel.
Short, sharp and wonderfully unexpected. This was a fantastic introduction to a genre I wouldn’t normally reach for, and I’m so glad I stepped outside my comfort zone!
And a little bonus? A.J. Vrana is a Canadian author! 🇨🇦🖤 Always love discovering and supporting Canadian talent!
September 4, 2026
"A rebellious girl may be sainted a hero after death, but she usually dies a villain."
Truer words have rarely been spoken, for the spark of a rebellion tends to be reduced to ashes. And still, we try. Those most courageous, most loyal to the truth, they never stop trying. Their attempts may seem futile, but they never are. Because even when they fail, those brave souls remain true to their ideals, just as Senka was.
Her spirit was infectious from the very first page. She emboldens, empowers, and encourages, and she does it all in just over a hundred pages. And therein lies this story's greatness: its ability to move mountains in the length of a novella. In those hundred pages, Senka made me love her, cherish her, and cheer for her. She did what no one dared to do, and asked questions no one dared to ask. She shone brightly, and she burned bright in her rebirth and reawakening.
Hers and Vuyadin's story is a testament to what one brave soul can achieve. And to craft it all in a little over a hundred pages? That's a testament to A.J. Vrana's masterful storytelling, and I'm honored to be a small part of this journey.
Truer words have rarely been spoken, for the spark of a rebellion tends to be reduced to ashes. And still, we try. Those most courageous, most loyal to the truth, they never stop trying. Their attempts may seem futile, but they never are. Because even when they fail, those brave souls remain true to their ideals, just as Senka was.
Her spirit was infectious from the very first page. She emboldens, empowers, and encourages, and she does it all in just over a hundred pages. And therein lies this story's greatness: its ability to move mountains in the length of a novella. In those hundred pages, Senka made me love her, cherish her, and cheer for her. She did what no one dared to do, and asked questions no one dared to ask. She shone brightly, and she burned bright in her rebirth and reawakening.
Hers and Vuyadin's story is a testament to what one brave soul can achieve. And to craft it all in a little over a hundred pages? That's a testament to A.J. Vrana's masterful storytelling, and I'm honored to be a small part of this journey.
October 16, 2026
I love a good villain origin story! Especially when the villain is a woman and I ate this one up in one sitting, licking the plate afterwards leaving no crumbs!
This novella was a gripping ode to angry women everywhere! To everyone who is sick and tired of the narrative being pushed on women.
I absolutely loved how fierce Senka was and how she refused to just submit. She questioned things when they felt wrong and tried to protect her village but got punished for it.
The revenge arc was very satisfying with immaculate horror and folklore elements. Not to mention the plant destructive spice that was just glorious!
This novella is perfect for anyone who is looking for and quick short read and loves:
🌺Monster smut
🖤Botanical horror
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Satisfying revenge
🌺Monster Smut With Horny Plants
🖤Deadly s3x magic
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
This novella was a gripping ode to angry women everywhere! To everyone who is sick and tired of the narrative being pushed on women.
I absolutely loved how fierce Senka was and how she refused to just submit. She questioned things when they felt wrong and tried to protect her village but got punished for it.
The revenge arc was very satisfying with immaculate horror and folklore elements. Not to mention the plant destructive spice that was just glorious!
This novella is perfect for anyone who is looking for and quick short read and loves:
🌺Monster smut
🖤Botanical horror
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Satisfying revenge
🌺Monster Smut With Horny Plants
🖤Deadly s3x magic
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
July 8, 2026
This book is so incredibly fun and creepy but not too creepy. It’s filled with delicious tension and female rage and I can’t wait for everyone to read it and fall in love.
August 30, 2026
5 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Only wanton girls wade through dark waters."
Her Ravening Heart is an adult horror monster romance standalone novella. Written in third person POV the story follows Senka as she observes a rather odd ritual her village performs every five years whereby the gift of a chosen female to become the bride of the god of life in return for spring...but the bride is never seen again. One day Senka finds herself faced with an awful truth when she is selected to be the next bride. See, Senka refuses to submit, even to a ravening god.
This is one of those quick reads that just hit the spot PERFECTLY.
Senka is a FMC who challenges the norm of her village and does it unapologetically. She is fighting against years of societal norms and I felt for her journey as she feels like she is fighting a futile fight. Watching her lose so much but they keep going was so satisfying.
The monster in this monster romance I am going to leave a little vague because that is part of the journey but, suffice to say, this is not like any MMC you have met. I loved the questioning journey that led me to him and having to unravel him alongside Senka was a delight.
Her solace, found in a monster
In terms of spice I place this book at 4 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There are two spicy scenes in this book. The first scene is much gentler than the other and for good reason. They both appear towards the end of the book. The second spicy scene is EXTREMELY spicy and fully leans into the monster element. It is detailed and graphic but man did it deliver exactly what this story needed. I loved how the spice played into the story and it was feral and passionate and dark.
The story itself plays heavily into mystery as Senka tries to unravel what is going on with the deals her village is making with this god of life. I love feeling really immersed in the mystery because I had no idea where it was going alongside Senka. I loved the build up to the present as we got time to understand this rather odd town and see Senka struggle with the pressures, especially with her sister and Nada. Her fight for control and refusal to submit was empowering and really brought home a theme around female agency and community indoctrination. Meanwhile, the relationship between Senka and her monster is beautiful and raw. There are a lot of growing pains but their connection drew me in and I love how vulnerable it made them in the face of everything as both didn’t know what to do with the other. For Senka, there is a lot of rage and boy I was raging with her at times for what she must deal with...but the ending made everything so worth it. The ending of this book deserves an entire section for how perfect it was for the story as it delivered fury, vengeance, passion, and play in a way I have never experienced before. Someone frame this ending!
Overall, I truly adored this novella and I cannot wait for it to get into more hands! Thank you AJ for sending along an early copy!!
"Only wanton girls wade through dark waters."
Her Ravening Heart is an adult horror monster romance standalone novella. Written in third person POV the story follows Senka as she observes a rather odd ritual her village performs every five years whereby the gift of a chosen female to become the bride of the god of life in return for spring...but the bride is never seen again. One day Senka finds herself faced with an awful truth when she is selected to be the next bride. See, Senka refuses to submit, even to a ravening god.
This is one of those quick reads that just hit the spot PERFECTLY.
Senka is a FMC who challenges the norm of her village and does it unapologetically. She is fighting against years of societal norms and I felt for her journey as she feels like she is fighting a futile fight. Watching her lose so much but they keep going was so satisfying.
The monster in this monster romance I am going to leave a little vague because that is part of the journey but, suffice to say, this is not like any MMC you have met. I loved the questioning journey that led me to him and having to unravel him alongside Senka was a delight.
Her solace, found in a monster
In terms of spice I place this book at 4 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There are two spicy scenes in this book. The first scene is much gentler than the other and for good reason. They both appear towards the end of the book. The second spicy scene is EXTREMELY spicy and fully leans into the monster element. It is detailed and graphic but man did it deliver exactly what this story needed. I loved how the spice played into the story and it was feral and passionate and dark.
The story itself plays heavily into mystery as Senka tries to unravel what is going on with the deals her village is making with this god of life. I love feeling really immersed in the mystery because I had no idea where it was going alongside Senka. I loved the build up to the present as we got time to understand this rather odd town and see Senka struggle with the pressures, especially with her sister and Nada. Her fight for control and refusal to submit was empowering and really brought home a theme around female agency and community indoctrination. Meanwhile, the relationship between Senka and her monster is beautiful and raw. There are a lot of growing pains but their connection drew me in and I love how vulnerable it made them in the face of everything as both didn’t know what to do with the other. For Senka, there is a lot of rage and boy I was raging with her at times for what she must deal with...but the ending made everything so worth it. The ending of this book deserves an entire section for how perfect it was for the story as it delivered fury, vengeance, passion, and play in a way I have never experienced before. Someone frame this ending!
Overall, I truly adored this novella and I cannot wait for it to get into more hands! Thank you AJ for sending along an early copy!!
September 28, 2026
♥️♥️Thank you to A.J Vrana for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own♥️♥️
Senka refused to become an offering to Vuyadin, the God of Life, so the villagers forcibly dragged her to the altar. then she had intended to confront him about the fate of the sacrificed brides—especially the one he butchered at the altar, and her older sister who had been taken five years earlier from their home. but the God who appeared before her was nothing like the cruel, bloodthirsty deity she had imagined.
I absolutely love AJ Vrana’s writing style, and this story did not disappoint!🥰 it was beautifully written, vivid, and surprisingly atmospheric for such a short book, and the spicy scene is 🔥🔥🔥 this is such a unique monster romance... I’ve never read one featuring horny plants before, and after reading this book I definitely can’t look at orchids the same way again😂😂
The characters are well developed and interesting. Vuyadin is a god who truly values consent, he refuses to force himself upon an unwilling bride, even though doing so could potentially weaken him, and he gives Senka the choice to choose him for herself. and Senka is brave, curious, and has been questioning things since childhood. I loved her determination and I really loved the way she dealt with the villagers after everything they had done to her...the ending was very satisfying😈😈
the story moves at a fast pace, ignites quickly, and keeps the intensity going right through to the end. It was a fun, spicy, and creepy read...🥶 perfect as a quick palate cleanser after reading books with heavier themes. definitely recommended if you’re looking for a short, unusual monster romance!😆
🌺Monster x Sacrifice
🖤Deadly sex magic
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺Monster f*cking
🖤Horny plants
🌺Arranged marriage (sort of lol)
🖤Left for dead
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
🌺Sacrificial lamb
🖤Personal desire vs social obligation
🌺Scaroused
What did it mean to want the monster you were suppose to hate?
Senka refused to become an offering to Vuyadin, the God of Life, so the villagers forcibly dragged her to the altar. then she had intended to confront him about the fate of the sacrificed brides—especially the one he butchered at the altar, and her older sister who had been taken five years earlier from their home. but the God who appeared before her was nothing like the cruel, bloodthirsty deity she had imagined.
"Only wanton girls wade through dark waters."
I absolutely love AJ Vrana’s writing style, and this story did not disappoint!🥰 it was beautifully written, vivid, and surprisingly atmospheric for such a short book, and the spicy scene is 🔥🔥🔥 this is such a unique monster romance... I’ve never read one featuring horny plants before, and after reading this book I definitely can’t look at orchids the same way again😂😂
Her solace, found in a monster. And who knew a monster could be so beautiful.
The characters are well developed and interesting. Vuyadin is a god who truly values consent, he refuses to force himself upon an unwilling bride, even though doing so could potentially weaken him, and he gives Senka the choice to choose him for herself. and Senka is brave, curious, and has been questioning things since childhood. I loved her determination and I really loved the way she dealt with the villagers after everything they had done to her...the ending was very satisfying😈😈
"You're back."
"Winter solstice is too far away."
the story moves at a fast pace, ignites quickly, and keeps the intensity going right through to the end. It was a fun, spicy, and creepy read...🥶 perfect as a quick palate cleanser after reading books with heavier themes. definitely recommended if you’re looking for a short, unusual monster romance!😆
🌺Monster x Sacrifice
🖤Deadly sex magic
🌺Feminine rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺Monster f*cking
🖤Horny plants
🌺Arranged marriage (sort of lol)
🖤Left for dead
🌺Who-done-it
🖤Ravening gods
🌺Sacrificial lamb
🖤Personal desire vs social obligation
🌺Scaroused
September 8, 2026
🪻"Let the mountain lay fallow."🌿
Received an advanced copy from the author. Thank you for this opportunity💚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
🌺Villain Origin Story
🖤Monster x Sacrifice
🌺Feminine Rage
🖤H0rny Plants
🌺Monster S(m)ex
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺(Sort of) Forced Marriage
Sypnosis: Every five years in the village of Belagora the God of Life demands a bride in exchange to end winter and bring spring. One year, his bride isn't so willing proving a great challenge and change underways.
Being a novella this is fast paced, but done wonderfully. Our fmc Senka goes through a lot creating a rage that pents up for years. Her rebellious and blunt nature makes her feared by her fellow villagers, and after they betray her she finally let's all that wrath out. Vuyadin, our mmc, is not what she expected and he himself has so much to work out with himself. The yearning is there and for those who love the trope will melt at his and his words.
The spice, if you're looking for something out of the norm well then this should satiate that hunger. Creative with vivid scenes and quite frankly florally delicious. Our mmc loves pleasing his wife🤭
The author's writing is detailed and the wording rich. I felt sucked into this world and the characters fleshed out enough for such a short book. Something I really adored were the moths🥹 My only complaint, I wish this was longer. I understand that it's a novella and as wonderful as it is I feel like the story had more. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to fans of horror fantasy romances.
Lastly, out of all honesty, "good for her."😉
Received an advanced copy from the author. Thank you for this opportunity💚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
🌺Villain Origin Story
🖤Monster x Sacrifice
🌺Feminine Rage
🖤H0rny Plants
🌺Monster S(m)ex
🖤Forced Proximity
🌺(Sort of) Forced Marriage
Sypnosis: Every five years in the village of Belagora the God of Life demands a bride in exchange to end winter and bring spring. One year, his bride isn't so willing proving a great challenge and change underways.
Being a novella this is fast paced, but done wonderfully. Our fmc Senka goes through a lot creating a rage that pents up for years. Her rebellious and blunt nature makes her feared by her fellow villagers, and after they betray her she finally let's all that wrath out. Vuyadin, our mmc, is not what she expected and he himself has so much to work out with himself. The yearning is there and for those who love the trope will melt at his and his words.
The spice, if you're looking for something out of the norm well then this should satiate that hunger. Creative with vivid scenes and quite frankly florally delicious. Our mmc loves pleasing his wife🤭
The author's writing is detailed and the wording rich. I felt sucked into this world and the characters fleshed out enough for such a short book. Something I really adored were the moths🥹 My only complaint, I wish this was longer. I understand that it's a novella and as wonderful as it is I feel like the story had more. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to fans of horror fantasy romances.
Lastly, out of all honesty, "good for her."😉
October 21, 2026
*Strong FMC
*A God and devil as the Same person.
*Monster smut and horny plants (Never read anything like it).
*Female rage
*Novella
Senka has been chosen to be the Next girl to be sacrificed to the gods on its 5th year of
Eternal Springs. Senka isn't going willingly.
Her town agree to come together and sacrifice herself since everyone hated her.
Took her clothes, and wool socks and left her to Frostbite and a painful cold gruesome death.
The gods cannot take someone that is NOT willing.
It's the same God that killed her Sister and Nana and other woman, he has no memory and he takes the shapes of their emotions, and energies.
She is attracted to him even though he apparently doesn't have a cock just a bulge. 😲
Senka has been gone for the entire winter and when she tries to go back to her home the people now believe she has been returned by the gods. Even they Didn't Want Her.
Though, she is much closer to the god then they realize.
The Entire town knows that THEY DO NOT have to sacrifice and could have put an end to everything. But they're so comfortable to their own route. Their beliefs are so strong that fear is the only way they feel like they have a voice.
People she has known betrayed her, lied, had always knows the truth and they still picked fear. Hey EVERYONE is doing it, I should too.
Senka doesn't mind being the outsider with her own voice and standing alone.
The ending though!!!! 😘😘
Thank you #NerdFam
Thank you to the Author.
*A God and devil as the Same person.
*Monster smut and horny plants (Never read anything like it).
*Female rage
*Novella
Senka has been chosen to be the Next girl to be sacrificed to the gods on its 5th year of
Eternal Springs. Senka isn't going willingly.
Her town agree to come together and sacrifice herself since everyone hated her.
Took her clothes, and wool socks and left her to Frostbite and a painful cold gruesome death.
The gods cannot take someone that is NOT willing.
It's the same God that killed her Sister and Nana and other woman, he has no memory and he takes the shapes of their emotions, and energies.
She is attracted to him even though he apparently doesn't have a cock just a bulge. 😲
Senka has been gone for the entire winter and when she tries to go back to her home the people now believe she has been returned by the gods. Even they Didn't Want Her.
Though, she is much closer to the god then they realize.
The Entire town knows that THEY DO NOT have to sacrifice and could have put an end to everything. But they're so comfortable to their own route. Their beliefs are so strong that fear is the only way they feel like they have a voice.
People she has known betrayed her, lied, had always knows the truth and they still picked fear. Hey EVERYONE is doing it, I should too.
Senka doesn't mind being the outsider with her own voice and standing alone.
The ending though!!!! 😘😘
Thank you #NerdFam
Thank you to the Author.
October 27, 2026
This was fantastic. 10/10. I want a thousand more books like this.
I sincerely have a large portion of this 150~ page book highlighted.
For a book that I would say fits the horror monster romance genre, it has some pretty profound elements to it. A.J. has done an amazing job of giving us this sardonic tone through the entire book that I find very fitting. Along with a LOT of sentences I found translated a lot to some of my own feelings and into today’s world while still leaving us immersed in their world.
Senka is our main female character. Born into a village where they sacrifice their daughters to a god to end winter.
Senka is very skeptical even as a child and very much the black sheep of her village.
This is about as much as I wanna share without ruining it. It being a novella means that every detail is important and my gosh is that true here.
I was not overwhelmed with details but had enough to keep my interest and paint a clear picture.
As a true testament to their ability as an author, there were points in this book when I couldn’t figure out how in the WORLD it was going to wrap up in such a short timespan, because there wasn’t a lull to the plot or story but that ending made so much sense and was just so rewarding and satisfying. (I would never have figured it out though lol)
This was very enjoyable and will definitely be going on my RECOMMEND list to tell people about.
I sincerely have a large portion of this 150~ page book highlighted.
For a book that I would say fits the horror monster romance genre, it has some pretty profound elements to it. A.J. has done an amazing job of giving us this sardonic tone through the entire book that I find very fitting. Along with a LOT of sentences I found translated a lot to some of my own feelings and into today’s world while still leaving us immersed in their world.
Senka is our main female character. Born into a village where they sacrifice their daughters to a god to end winter.
Senka is very skeptical even as a child and very much the black sheep of her village.
This is about as much as I wanna share without ruining it. It being a novella means that every detail is important and my gosh is that true here.
I was not overwhelmed with details but had enough to keep my interest and paint a clear picture.
As a true testament to their ability as an author, there were points in this book when I couldn’t figure out how in the WORLD it was going to wrap up in such a short timespan, because there wasn’t a lull to the plot or story but that ending made so much sense and was just so rewarding and satisfying. (I would never have figured it out though lol)
This was very enjoyable and will definitely be going on my RECOMMEND list to tell people about.
October 30, 2026
If you’re looking for a monster horror with a bit of tension and romance, check this one out!
You follow the FMC, who her entire life, her town every 5 years has been sending off a chosen woman to be given to the god who helps protect them from eternal winter and keeps them safe. They’ve been told she is selected to go live safely forever with this god, only the FMC when she’s 12 decides to go see what really happens to the woman chosen and sees her body torn to shreds, and realizes they’ve been fed a pretty lie. She spends the next 5 years trying to convince the town to stop the sacrifices, only this time when they do, a beast comes for her sister instead in the night and sickness claims the only other family she has. Outcast by her town, when the next selection comes, it’s now her life on the line.
It was so hard seeing the FMC rebel and doing what she can to try to save the other chosen women, only to loose all she cares for and then being chosen and outcasted herself. There were lots of darker horror elements and moments that terrified me so make sure to check your triggers but it was right up my alley for spooky season. There was also this burning tension the FMC felt to the beast she’s meant to hate for all it took from her and it was awesome seeing her get her revenge. Overall this was a dark and spooky quick read that was perfect for this time of year. My rating 4.1/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC, who her entire life, her town every 5 years has been sending off a chosen woman to be given to the god who helps protect them from eternal winter and keeps them safe. They’ve been told she is selected to go live safely forever with this god, only the FMC when she’s 12 decides to go see what really happens to the woman chosen and sees her body torn to shreds, and realizes they’ve been fed a pretty lie. She spends the next 5 years trying to convince the town to stop the sacrifices, only this time when they do, a beast comes for her sister instead in the night and sickness claims the only other family she has. Outcast by her town, when the next selection comes, it’s now her life on the line.
It was so hard seeing the FMC rebel and doing what she can to try to save the other chosen women, only to loose all she cares for and then being chosen and outcasted herself. There were lots of darker horror elements and moments that terrified me so make sure to check your triggers but it was right up my alley for spooky season. There was also this burning tension the FMC felt to the beast she’s meant to hate for all it took from her and it was awesome seeing her get her revenge. Overall this was a dark and spooky quick read that was perfect for this time of year. My rating 4.1/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
October 19, 2026
"𝔉𝔬𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔤𝔦𝔯𝔩𝔰 𝔴𝔦𝔱𝔥 𝔡𝔞𝔯𝔨𝔢𝔫𝔢𝔡 𝔰𝔬𝔲𝔩𝔰 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔥𝔲𝔫𝔤𝔯𝔶 𝔥𝔢𝔞𝔯𝔱𝔰. 𝔗𝔥𝔢𝔶 𝔡𝔬𝔫'𝔱 𝔡𝔢𝔰𝔢𝔯𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲."
I could see everything so vividly, I could feel Senkas pain, confusion, and wrath. Her determination to convince everyone of the truth, to be a good and honorable person, to step outside societal norms was admirable, chilling. This novel wrapped around my core, consuming every thought, I genuinely could not put my phone down! "She had 5 years to convince Belgora of the truth. Five years. - Chapter 5." The gasp I let out. The amount of bookmarked pages I have just waiting to be picked at, quotes repeating in my head. The story is gory, hauntingly beautiful, unique, and so oddly romantic. It has you angry then rooting for both characters and intrigued by who they are and what they believe. Senka is a main character you can't help but love, her morals are strong, she understands what must be done to fix the wrongs, even if that means damning them all! The end was too short. I needed more, I wanted to learn all about them, what she turned into, how he learned to live as he is. I just couldn't get enough. Overall, it was beyond amazing. It's in my top 3!
I could see everything so vividly, I could feel Senkas pain, confusion, and wrath. Her determination to convince everyone of the truth, to be a good and honorable person, to step outside societal norms was admirable, chilling. This novel wrapped around my core, consuming every thought, I genuinely could not put my phone down! "She had 5 years to convince Belgora of the truth. Five years. - Chapter 5." The gasp I let out. The amount of bookmarked pages I have just waiting to be picked at, quotes repeating in my head. The story is gory, hauntingly beautiful, unique, and so oddly romantic. It has you angry then rooting for both characters and intrigued by who they are and what they believe. Senka is a main character you can't help but love, her morals are strong, she understands what must be done to fix the wrongs, even if that means damning them all! The end was too short. I needed more, I wanted to learn all about them, what she turned into, how he learned to live as he is. I just couldn't get enough. Overall, it was beyond amazing. It's in my top 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2026
I was not expecting to like this as much as I did. I've had a string of bad books and wow this was amazing. I'm so glad I got to read this
Recap: In the town of Belagora, a bride is sacrificed every 5 years to pay a tithe to a god of life to end winter and start the spring season. The bride is promised an eternal spring. When blue hyacinths appear in front of Senka's door, she will be the next bride. However, she will not go willingly.
My thoughts: I love that this was a monster romance but it was not a book jam-packed with smut. The plot was plotting. The feminine rage was raging and that ending was chef's kiss. I don't see many reviews talking about how this book could easily be tied to feminine rage in regards to women's rights to their bodies ( don't tell me not to get political, books are political) Senka was ahead of her time and she gets it. I love that the romance wasn't the forefront of the story but it supported and complimented the plot.
Also the plant of life and death? Ooooh that was too good. Never read anything like that and I lowkey enjoyed it. Shocked at first but the ending was toooooo good.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the ARC.
Recap: In the town of Belagora, a bride is sacrificed every 5 years to pay a tithe to a god of life to end winter and start the spring season. The bride is promised an eternal spring. When blue hyacinths appear in front of Senka's door, she will be the next bride. However, she will not go willingly.
My thoughts: I love that this was a monster romance but it was not a book jam-packed with smut. The plot was plotting. The feminine rage was raging and that ending was chef's kiss. I don't see many reviews talking about how this book could easily be tied to feminine rage in regards to women's rights to their bodies ( don't tell me not to get political, books are political) Senka was ahead of her time and she gets it. I love that the romance wasn't the forefront of the story but it supported and complimented the plot.
Also the plant of life and death? Ooooh that was too good. Never read anything like that and I lowkey enjoyed it. Shocked at first but the ending was toooooo good.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the ARC.
October 26, 2026
Absolutely loved this book!!
This story follows Senka, who lives in a mountain village that offers a chosen bride to a God, every 5 years, in exchange for the end of winter.
I love this book for so many reasons, from it’s commentary on blind faith and trust, because things have always been that way. To not asking questions and doing what you’re told, to being groomed to believe in something that isn’t real, to not being able to choose. So many things that really relate to the world we live in.
What I love most is senka, and how she grows as a character and that no matter what is done to her, she still cares and still tries to get people to understand that there is a different way.
The end was 🥵🔥, and I loved it! It was like a culmination of all the pent up rage and healing at the same time.
It’s tagged as a romance, but don’t let that deter you from reading this. Just like with horror, there are different levels of romance. This has a little bit of spice… that involves plants, but the spice really only added to the overall impact of the story!!
Thank you Nerdfam for the gifted advanced copy!! All thoughts are my own!!
This story follows Senka, who lives in a mountain village that offers a chosen bride to a God, every 5 years, in exchange for the end of winter.
I love this book for so many reasons, from it’s commentary on blind faith and trust, because things have always been that way. To not asking questions and doing what you’re told, to being groomed to believe in something that isn’t real, to not being able to choose. So many things that really relate to the world we live in.
What I love most is senka, and how she grows as a character and that no matter what is done to her, she still cares and still tries to get people to understand that there is a different way.
The end was 🥵🔥, and I loved it! It was like a culmination of all the pent up rage and healing at the same time.
It’s tagged as a romance, but don’t let that deter you from reading this. Just like with horror, there are different levels of romance. This has a little bit of spice… that involves plants, but the spice really only added to the overall impact of the story!!
Thank you Nerdfam for the gifted advanced copy!! All thoughts are my own!!
August 9, 2026
Advanced copy provided by the author.
As can be expected, A. J. Vrana deftly weaves together the genres of folkloric horror and romance in a tale in part about the stories we tell about ourselves, looks into the chasm of what people will do to protect themselves against guilt, and smiles wickedly as monstrosity is embraced. The narrative won't scare you, but instead like the best of horror it takes the comfortable setting of a close-knit community and the unseen god of life they worship, and makes us question our expectations of both.
Full of themes familiar to readers of Vrana's work, Her Ravening Heart is bursting with feminine rage, monstrosity, cycles of harm, collective violence against women, and more, and doesn't hold back right up until its delicious climax. Vrana's storytelling takes the best of folkloric horror and romance to deliver a fantastic, compelling, and impossible-to-not blaze through novella.
As can be expected, A. J. Vrana deftly weaves together the genres of folkloric horror and romance in a tale in part about the stories we tell about ourselves, looks into the chasm of what people will do to protect themselves against guilt, and smiles wickedly as monstrosity is embraced. The narrative won't scare you, but instead like the best of horror it takes the comfortable setting of a close-knit community and the unseen god of life they worship, and makes us question our expectations of both.
Full of themes familiar to readers of Vrana's work, Her Ravening Heart is bursting with feminine rage, monstrosity, cycles of harm, collective violence against women, and more, and doesn't hold back right up until its delicious climax. Vrana's storytelling takes the best of folkloric horror and romance to deliver a fantastic, compelling, and impossible-to-not blaze through novella.
October 20, 2026
Short, sharp, and straight to the point! 🖤
Her Ravening Heart is a novella that wastes no time getting into the heart of the story. The Society is built on lies, manipulation, and the control of women, keeping them exactly where it wants them.
I really enjoyed the themes explored throughout this story, particularly the power dynamics and the way women are manipulated into submission.
My onlu criticism is that the plot jumped around a little too quickly for my liking. I struggled to fully buy into the MC's connection because I wanted more time to understand them and would have loved more time to explore their characters a bit more. And the last scene (🌱IYKYK) had me a little confused when it was starting out, but I learnt a long time ago not to question too much 🤣
That said, for a novella, it packs a lot into a short read and keeps things 🖤 thanks nerd family and A J Vrana for the ARC 🌱
Her Ravening Heart is a novella that wastes no time getting into the heart of the story. The Society is built on lies, manipulation, and the control of women, keeping them exactly where it wants them.
I really enjoyed the themes explored throughout this story, particularly the power dynamics and the way women are manipulated into submission.
My onlu criticism is that the plot jumped around a little too quickly for my liking. I struggled to fully buy into the MC's connection because I wanted more time to understand them and would have loved more time to explore their characters a bit more. And the last scene (🌱IYKYK) had me a little confused when it was starting out, but I learnt a long time ago not to question too much 🤣
That said, for a novella, it packs a lot into a short read and keeps things 🖤 thanks nerd family and A J Vrana for the ARC 🌱
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2026
ARC review
Wow this novella packed so much more than I was expecting!
I loved how the author took an horror/ monster romance and elevated it, weaving through the story themes like misogyny, feminine rage and the search for truth “even when it doesn’t benefit the speaker”
I enjoyed the idea behind the story, and I absolutely loved the execution.
It’s hard to give a formal review without giving too much away, so I’ll just say I loved both characters.
The FMC and her search for truth and fairness. Her battle against the status quo, trying to protect the “minority” even when it clearly didn’t serve her.
And the MMC and his much deeper role in this circle of life.
Everyone in this story could have had so much more from life, if only people were ready to face the truth.
In the end the FMC and MMC create their own justice, and you know what, good on them!
You cannot help who doesn’t want to be helped, and this book shows that 100%!
Wow this novella packed so much more than I was expecting!
I loved how the author took an horror/ monster romance and elevated it, weaving through the story themes like misogyny, feminine rage and the search for truth “even when it doesn’t benefit the speaker”
I enjoyed the idea behind the story, and I absolutely loved the execution.
It’s hard to give a formal review without giving too much away, so I’ll just say I loved both characters.
The FMC and her search for truth and fairness. Her battle against the status quo, trying to protect the “minority” even when it clearly didn’t serve her.
And the MMC and his much deeper role in this circle of life.
Everyone in this story could have had so much more from life, if only people were ready to face the truth.
In the end the FMC and MMC create their own justice, and you know what, good on them!
You cannot help who doesn’t want to be helped, and this book shows that 100%!
September 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: Novella, Horny Plants, Forced Proximity, Monster Romance, Horror, Arranged Marriage
Annotations:
’Do you wish to satisfy me, god of life?’
‘A pact between men and gods, yet women were the currency they traded in.’
Summary:
A life God & a pact, with a village which see’s one daughter every five years being offered to the God in exchange for eternal Spring. However, there are dark secrets to this pact & Senka is going to uncover it all!
Review:
Horrormance novella? Yes please!!
This one was a fun read. I loved the set up & our FMC, Senka is extremely likeable with solid motivations. I’d say this is the perfect dark winter read, which works perfectly as this releases on 17th November! Our MMC is also giving Mothman but a bit softer vibes, again love that!
Honestly, my only critique is just why isn’t this a whole book? All I wanted was more. More from the MMC’s character, I wanna know more about him. A bit more rage from our FMC. I’m hoping this gets re-written into a full novel because I need it!!
Thank you A.J. Vrana for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: Novella, Horny Plants, Forced Proximity, Monster Romance, Horror, Arranged Marriage
Annotations:
’Do you wish to satisfy me, god of life?’
‘A pact between men and gods, yet women were the currency they traded in.’
Summary:
A life God & a pact, with a village which see’s one daughter every five years being offered to the God in exchange for eternal Spring. However, there are dark secrets to this pact & Senka is going to uncover it all!
Review:
Horrormance novella? Yes please!!
This one was a fun read. I loved the set up & our FMC, Senka is extremely likeable with solid motivations. I’d say this is the perfect dark winter read, which works perfectly as this releases on 17th November! Our MMC is also giving Mothman but a bit softer vibes, again love that!
Honestly, my only critique is just why isn’t this a whole book? All I wanted was more. More from the MMC’s character, I wanna know more about him. A bit more rage from our FMC. I’m hoping this gets re-written into a full novel because I need it!!
Thank you A.J. Vrana for the review copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2026
ARC Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!
Book: Her Ravening Heart by A.J. Vrana
"𝘛𝘰 𝘝𝘶𝘺𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘣𝘮𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘱.”
A perfect book if you crave a short story! Lush writing, gripping story, a handsome monster and a badass FMC. I absolutely loved this one
"𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦?"
When woman are being willing sacrifices, you better have some questions! I loved Senka, she turned common sense into feminine rage with a sweet touch of well deserved revenge. I just love it when the FMC isn't willing to go down without a fight. A short story, but a strong one
"𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦. 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘴, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦."
I want to thank the author for sending me an eARC to read and review 🖤
Book: Her Ravening Heart by A.J. Vrana
"𝘛𝘰 𝘝𝘶𝘺𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘣𝘮𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘱.”
A perfect book if you crave a short story! Lush writing, gripping story, a handsome monster and a badass FMC. I absolutely loved this one
"𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦?"
When woman are being willing sacrifices, you better have some questions! I loved Senka, she turned common sense into feminine rage with a sweet touch of well deserved revenge. I just love it when the FMC isn't willing to go down without a fight. A short story, but a strong one
"𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮, 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦. 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘴, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦."
I want to thank the author for sending me an eARC to read and review 🖤
October 18, 2026
Wow. That ending was … wow.
I loved this right from the get go. Sometimes I have trouble with stories set in seemingly historic feeling timelines, but I had no problem getting immersed into this. It was written well and keeps your attention.
Senka and her family made for an interesting trio, and the god, well he was resplendent. I loved his aura, his energy and his description. The way his story comes out is fascinating.
Now the ending. Was I expecting that? Hell no. Did I ever in a million years think I would read about a woman [redacted] a [redacted] to climax and in turn [redacted] a bunch of pricks? Nope, couldn’t have even imagined it, but my response? HELL YEAH. What a ride. I definitely will not be forgetting this one ever.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and A.J Vrana for this ARC!
I loved this right from the get go. Sometimes I have trouble with stories set in seemingly historic feeling timelines, but I had no problem getting immersed into this. It was written well and keeps your attention.
Senka and her family made for an interesting trio, and the god, well he was resplendent. I loved his aura, his energy and his description. The way his story comes out is fascinating.
Now the ending. Was I expecting that? Hell no. Did I ever in a million years think I would read about a woman [redacted] a [redacted] to climax and in turn [redacted] a bunch of pricks? Nope, couldn’t have even imagined it, but my response? HELL YEAH. What a ride. I definitely will not be forgetting this one ever.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and A.J Vrana for this ARC!
October 28, 2026
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑵𝒆𝒓𝒅 𝑭𝒂𝒎 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝑹𝑪
*Spoilers*
I did NOT expect a foursome between a plant, a flower, a monster and a human LMAO
Her ravening heart had 3 of my favorite things: Monster Romance, Sacrifice Trope and Heroine Revenge - I eat this up every time.
I felt some familiar moments of home invasion and folk horror from A Love Like Sharp Teeth and virgin sacrifice from A Soul To Keep which I enjoyed.
Highlight for me was how the author described the gruesome scene of the human sacrifice earlier in the story.
The 10 year time jump for the FMC was a little jarring and some of the wording felt a little out of place considering the world this story took place (primitive, old fashioned) but not a deal breaker to the stories flow.
I am also half Serbian so was thrilled to see this about the authors heritage as well - excited to read more from this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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