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Afflicted Souls #1
Poison Tongue
Levi Bell can see a person’s soul just by looking into their eyes. In Monroe Poirier’s eyes, he sees the devil himself.
When Monroe moves back to the small Southern town of Malcome, Levi is repelled by the darkness of the stranger’s soul. But Levi is cursed to love things dark and wicked, and he's seduced each time he looks into Monroe’s eyes—and drawn to the swamp behind the old Poirier house.
As strange occurrences begin to happen when shadows and visions visit him in the night, Levi sees a flicker of something good in Monroe’s soul. But the need to submerge himself in the swamp’s murky waters grows stronger as Levi’s desire for Monroe becomes unbearable.
In his struggles to help Monroe save his soul, Levi will have to decide if it’s worth losing his own.
When Monroe moves back to the small Southern town of Malcome, Levi is repelled by the darkness of the stranger’s soul. But Levi is cursed to love things dark and wicked, and he's seduced each time he looks into Monroe’s eyes—and drawn to the swamp behind the old Poirier house.
As strange occurrences begin to happen when shadows and visions visit him in the night, Levi sees a flicker of something good in Monroe’s soul. But the need to submerge himself in the swamp’s murky waters grows stronger as Levi’s desire for Monroe becomes unbearable.
In his struggles to help Monroe save his soul, Levi will have to decide if it’s worth losing his own.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2016
11 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
About the author
Nash Summers
19 books577 followersNash Summers rarely has any idea what she’s doing. But when she likes to pretend, she pretends by writing stories at the pace of drying paint. As if that wasn’t exhilarating enough, Nash also enjoys absolute silence, general politeness, and waiting her turn in line.
Needless to say, she’s a bona fide hell raiser.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nash.summers...
Nash also has a super cool newsletter which can be found here: http://eepurl.com/boD5TP
Needless to say, she’s a bona fide hell raiser.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nash.summers...
Nash also has a super cool newsletter which can be found here: http://eepurl.com/boD5TP
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 20, 2024
4.5 Stars
Wow, first review! No pressure, right? Well, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed Poison Tongue. Not that I thought I wouldn't like it. Honestly it sounded strange and interesting, so I decided to give it a chance. I was nervous, though. I've only read one other Nash Summers book, so far, and though all my friends, whom I often share reading tastes with, liked it, I didn't really.
But I wanted to give this author another chance because even though I didn't enjoy that book, I could see she was a crazy talented writer. I was not disappointed at all, this time! Poison Tongue was my kind of paranormal book! It was strange and interesting and scary and creepy and I loved it.
I loved the setting, in a small Louisiana town, and the imagery that Summers painted was so vivid I could almost swear I was there. The summers are hot and humid and everything is so alive. Including, apparently, things that should be long gone from this world.
Levi Bell comes from a family of people that are very connected to the otherworld. They each have different abilities and strengths and ways of seeing the world. Levi can see souls just as vivid as the rest of us see buildings and people. For him, they are such a part of a person, he can't not see them. His Gran, who has passed on, could see the future and she told Levi that he would fall in love with the devil, himself. Darkness has always been drawn to Levi and he, it. It calls to him, in his dreams and waking life. So when the Devil comes to town, Levi is not surprised at the strength of his attraction. And repulsion. Poor Levi, he was so conflicted.
Monroe Poirier is a cursed man. Evil swims and slithers inside him and Levi can see the manifestation of that evil as snakes slithering all over Monroe's body. I can see where that might put off an ordinary fella. Levi is not so ordinary. Monroe has just returned to his childhood hometown and he is not welcome. They call him "murderer", "monster", "evil". And the sad thing is, Monroe isn't sure they're wrong. He knows there is something wrong with him, but he has no hopes of ever overcoming it.
I also really enjoyed the cast of supporting characters. Levi's younger sister, Silvi, was a little creepy, but also delightful. Her ability was that she could see ghosts. She wasn't frightened of them, oh no. Silvi embraced that part of herself. But she was still a child and seeing her with Monroe's dog, Coin, just made me smile. Levi's best friend, Ward, was like his anchor. He never judged, always protected. And I spent a good portion of the book trying to figure out what the real deal about Ward was. I never did figure it out, so I was surprised when it was revealed. And, Levi's mom who always warned him to stay away from the swamp behind the Poirier house because there is nothing but evil there.
Monroe does not have an easy time being back in Malcome, LA. He's obviously not welcome, but he doesn't really have anywhere else to go. He tends to mind his own business unless he is forced no to. He finds an unlikely ally in Levi, who both wants nothing to do with him and everything to do with him. Their attraction was clear from pretty early on and their conflict was the evil within Monroe. But no matter how much they might try to stay away from one another, they were drawn together. And if they don't overcome the evil inside and around Monroe, it might just consume them both.
There isn't much steam, but there is a fair amount of tension and a slow burn of a romance. Monroe wants Levi, but can't stand that his presence hurts him. And Levi knows that he should stay away, but the effort is too great. The one sex scene in the book was hawt! And the character development and writing were fantastic. I really am glad I gave Nash Summers another chance.
I definitely recommend Poison Tongue, and I can't wait to see where this series goes.
-----------------------
ARC of Poison Tongue was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, first review! No pressure, right? Well, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed Poison Tongue. Not that I thought I wouldn't like it. Honestly it sounded strange and interesting, so I decided to give it a chance. I was nervous, though. I've only read one other Nash Summers book, so far, and though all my friends, whom I often share reading tastes with, liked it, I didn't really.
But I wanted to give this author another chance because even though I didn't enjoy that book, I could see she was a crazy talented writer. I was not disappointed at all, this time! Poison Tongue was my kind of paranormal book! It was strange and interesting and scary and creepy and I loved it.
I loved the setting, in a small Louisiana town, and the imagery that Summers painted was so vivid I could almost swear I was there. The summers are hot and humid and everything is so alive. Including, apparently, things that should be long gone from this world.
Levi Bell comes from a family of people that are very connected to the otherworld. They each have different abilities and strengths and ways of seeing the world. Levi can see souls just as vivid as the rest of us see buildings and people. For him, they are such a part of a person, he can't not see them. His Gran, who has passed on, could see the future and she told Levi that he would fall in love with the devil, himself. Darkness has always been drawn to Levi and he, it. It calls to him, in his dreams and waking life. So when the Devil comes to town, Levi is not surprised at the strength of his attraction. And repulsion. Poor Levi, he was so conflicted.
Monroe Poirier is a cursed man. Evil swims and slithers inside him and Levi can see the manifestation of that evil as snakes slithering all over Monroe's body. I can see where that might put off an ordinary fella. Levi is not so ordinary. Monroe has just returned to his childhood hometown and he is not welcome. They call him "murderer", "monster", "evil". And the sad thing is, Monroe isn't sure they're wrong. He knows there is something wrong with him, but he has no hopes of ever overcoming it.
I also really enjoyed the cast of supporting characters. Levi's younger sister, Silvi, was a little creepy, but also delightful. Her ability was that she could see ghosts. She wasn't frightened of them, oh no. Silvi embraced that part of herself. But she was still a child and seeing her with Monroe's dog, Coin, just made me smile. Levi's best friend, Ward, was like his anchor. He never judged, always protected. And I spent a good portion of the book trying to figure out what the real deal about Ward was. I never did figure it out, so I was surprised when it was revealed. And, Levi's mom who always warned him to stay away from the swamp behind the Poirier house because there is nothing but evil there.
Monroe does not have an easy time being back in Malcome, LA. He's obviously not welcome, but he doesn't really have anywhere else to go. He tends to mind his own business unless he is forced no to. He finds an unlikely ally in Levi, who both wants nothing to do with him and everything to do with him. Their attraction was clear from pretty early on and their conflict was the evil within Monroe. But no matter how much they might try to stay away from one another, they were drawn together. And if they don't overcome the evil inside and around Monroe, it might just consume them both.
There isn't much steam, but there is a fair amount of tension and a slow burn of a romance. Monroe wants Levi, but can't stand that his presence hurts him. And Levi knows that he should stay away, but the effort is too great. The one sex scene in the book was hawt! And the character development and writing were fantastic. I really am glad I gave Nash Summers another chance.
I definitely recommend Poison Tongue, and I can't wait to see where this series goes.
-----------------------
ARC of Poison Tongue was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2016
Sometimes, I just don't want to write long review simply because I don't really have words to explain my opinion.
Let me just say that this romance from Nash Summers is on one hand a traditional love against evil theme -- in terms that Levi is able to break the dark curse that has captured Monroe's soul -- and on the other hand, it also brought a nuance of dark, Gothic, and eerie tale about love.
So despite the feel of repetitiveness that quite similar to my minor issue with Lovers & Fighters (in this case, Summers seems to repetitively remind readers about the swamp, the darkness, the curse, the snake that curling Monroe's body and soul, to the point where I thought "enough already!"), once again, Nash Summer's evocative and atmospheric prose charmed me over.
Gorgeous. Just gorgeous.
Let me just say that this romance from Nash Summers is on one hand a traditional love against evil theme -- in terms that Levi is able to break the dark curse that has captured Monroe's soul -- and on the other hand, it also brought a nuance of dark, Gothic, and eerie tale about love.
So despite the feel of repetitiveness that quite similar to my minor issue with Lovers & Fighters (in this case, Summers seems to repetitively remind readers about the swamp, the darkness, the curse, the snake that curling Monroe's body and soul, to the point where I thought "enough already!"), once again, Nash Summer's evocative and atmospheric prose charmed me over.
Gorgeous. Just gorgeous.
August 31, 2016
Loved! Wonderfully evocative southern gothic love story. Beautifully written. I want more!^^
March 25, 2018
This one was heavy on the paranormal, with a really different kind of story.
Deep into Louisiana, where voodoo is practiced and curses live, Levi Bell is drawn to a man with an evil soul.
I loved how touching the romance was, even though it wasn't always in the forefront.
Levi and Monroe's love transcends curses, transcends evil, and transcends right and wrong.
Told in Summers's usual smooth prose, this one wrapped itself around me like a blanket, even in the creepiest moments.
Recommended for M/M paranormal lovers.
Deep into Louisiana, where voodoo is practiced and curses live, Levi Bell is drawn to a man with an evil soul.
I loved how touching the romance was, even though it wasn't always in the forefront.
Levi and Monroe's love transcends curses, transcends evil, and transcends right and wrong.
Told in Summers's usual smooth prose, this one wrapped itself around me like a blanket, even in the creepiest moments.
Recommended for M/M paranormal lovers.
August 17, 2016
It's not the light that will get you, it's the darkness that you need to fear...
This one is going to be a bit of a challenge because I read my friend Jewel's review and honestly it's one excellent review, so I totally encourage you to check it out as well either here on GR or on My Fiction Nook.
Interestingly enough Jewel went into this because the story sounded good and she wanted to give the author another try while I went into this because I like the author and I was curious to see if I would like this book because I don't do scary, creepy paranormal my idea of paranormal is Kelly Armstrong and while she may have shifters and witches in her stories they're not what I would really call scary and while this one may not have had me peeking behind shower curtains or cautiously into closets I can guarantee you there are no swamps in my future or abandon houses or late might walks.
'Poison Tongue' walked that edge for me that was just on the other side of my comfort zone and it held my attention from start to finish. Once I started reading this there was no going back and no stopping.
The relationship between Levi and Monroe started with a very slow burn but it held an intensity that had me squirming in my chair at times. Practically from the minute these two men met I crossed my fingers, held my breath and prayed for things to work between them.
Levi's family is loving and supportive and interesting and unique to say the least. Being gifted is a family trait but how those gifts manifest is as unique as each individual. Levi can see a person's soul and he's drawn to the darkness. It calls to him like a lover. His sister, Silvi sees ghost, his gran could see the future, his mom does readings, can cast spells and senses things and then there's Ward. Levi's best friend who lives with them, he's Levi's soul and Levi is his heart. Their bond is strong.
Monroe's past is dark and filled with pain. Coming back to his hometown has been a difficult and painful experience but it's brought him Coin who is one awesome and fiercely loyal dog and in spite of the the fact that being near Levi seems to bring some kind of darkness and pain upon Levi, Monroe can no more stay away from Levi than Levi can stay away from him. Monroe's cursed and Levi sees the snakes that manifest as the darkness around his soul but he also sees the spark of gold that's there still struggling not to get extinguished. It's the dark that draws Levi to Monroe but it's that spark of gold that makes him fight for Monroe's soul.
This story was so beautifully drawn out each word leading us to where the author wanted us to be. Showing us a world beyond what the eye can see. 'Poison Tongue' is the first book in Nash Summer's series 'Afflicted Souls' and this series may be a little step on the wrong side of the my comfort zone line but the author tells a story that makes me not care and want more. So yes, I'm a fan and sign me up for whatever comes next.
********************
An ARC of 'Poison Tongue' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This one is going to be a bit of a challenge because I read my friend Jewel's review and honestly it's one excellent review, so I totally encourage you to check it out as well either here on GR or on My Fiction Nook.
Interestingly enough Jewel went into this because the story sounded good and she wanted to give the author another try while I went into this because I like the author and I was curious to see if I would like this book because I don't do scary, creepy paranormal my idea of paranormal is Kelly Armstrong and while she may have shifters and witches in her stories they're not what I would really call scary and while this one may not have had me peeking behind shower curtains or cautiously into closets I can guarantee you there are no swamps in my future or abandon houses or late might walks.
'Poison Tongue' walked that edge for me that was just on the other side of my comfort zone and it held my attention from start to finish. Once I started reading this there was no going back and no stopping.
The relationship between Levi and Monroe started with a very slow burn but it held an intensity that had me squirming in my chair at times. Practically from the minute these two men met I crossed my fingers, held my breath and prayed for things to work between them.
Levi's family is loving and supportive and interesting and unique to say the least. Being gifted is a family trait but how those gifts manifest is as unique as each individual. Levi can see a person's soul and he's drawn to the darkness. It calls to him like a lover. His sister, Silvi sees ghost, his gran could see the future, his mom does readings, can cast spells and senses things and then there's Ward. Levi's best friend who lives with them, he's Levi's soul and Levi is his heart. Their bond is strong.
Monroe's past is dark and filled with pain. Coming back to his hometown has been a difficult and painful experience but it's brought him Coin who is one awesome and fiercely loyal dog and in spite of the the fact that being near Levi seems to bring some kind of darkness and pain upon Levi, Monroe can no more stay away from Levi than Levi can stay away from him. Monroe's cursed and Levi sees the snakes that manifest as the darkness around his soul but he also sees the spark of gold that's there still struggling not to get extinguished. It's the dark that draws Levi to Monroe but it's that spark of gold that makes him fight for Monroe's soul.
This story was so beautifully drawn out each word leading us to where the author wanted us to be. Showing us a world beyond what the eye can see. 'Poison Tongue' is the first book in Nash Summer's series 'Afflicted Souls' and this series may be a little step on the wrong side of the my comfort zone line but the author tells a story that makes me not care and want more. So yes, I'm a fan and sign me up for whatever comes next.
********************
An ARC of 'Poison Tongue' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2022
This was scary, so so scary I couldn’t sleep till that nightmare wasn’t over. Good job Nash Summers!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 also the writing style is amazing as usual 😌
August 11, 2016
4.5 stars
Ridiculously good gothic romance.
There’s not much I love more than a good gothic romance and this book made me very happy. The author did a great job of setting the atmosphere in this story. There are all the things a good Southern gothic should have. A creepy, decaying house, an even more creepy swamp, terrible nightmares. a curse, a supernatural presence and a love interest that may be evil himself.
Despite Levi’s struggles with the ever increasing dreams of his own demise he still can’t stay away from Monroe. Monroe is hated by the entire town and he is bullied and picked on. Levi doesn’t know much about what happened when Monroe lived there before but he knows that Monroe’s soul is covered in black and that no matter what common sense tells him, he can’t stay away. He doesn’t know if he’ll be Monroe’s salvation or if Monroe will lead him to his doom. Most of the time he finds he doesn’t care.
The storytelling and pacing were excellent and I was on the edge of my seat for the entire book. It wasn’t scary per se but it kept me completely focused. I loved how well the world building was done. I felt like I was right there with Levi. Both Levi and Monroe were unique characters and I liked them both. I felt Levi’s sense of fear around Monroe at the beginning but soon became intrigued with him myself. The are three prominent side characters and they held interesting roles. There was a mystery surrounding one of them that I never figured out until it was explained. The romance aspect is a slow burn with a lovely ending.
This was one of the more unique stories I’ve read this year and I imagine it will end up in my top 10. I can’t say enough good things about it. This is a definite recommend from me.
Ridiculously good gothic romance.
There’s not much I love more than a good gothic romance and this book made me very happy. The author did a great job of setting the atmosphere in this story. There are all the things a good Southern gothic should have. A creepy, decaying house, an even more creepy swamp, terrible nightmares. a curse, a supernatural presence and a love interest that may be evil himself.
Despite Levi’s struggles with the ever increasing dreams of his own demise he still can’t stay away from Monroe. Monroe is hated by the entire town and he is bullied and picked on. Levi doesn’t know much about what happened when Monroe lived there before but he knows that Monroe’s soul is covered in black and that no matter what common sense tells him, he can’t stay away. He doesn’t know if he’ll be Monroe’s salvation or if Monroe will lead him to his doom. Most of the time he finds he doesn’t care.
The storytelling and pacing were excellent and I was on the edge of my seat for the entire book. It wasn’t scary per se but it kept me completely focused. I loved how well the world building was done. I felt like I was right there with Levi. Both Levi and Monroe were unique characters and I liked them both. I felt Levi’s sense of fear around Monroe at the beginning but soon became intrigued with him myself. The are three prominent side characters and they held interesting roles. There was a mystery surrounding one of them that I never figured out until it was explained. The romance aspect is a slow burn with a lovely ending.
This was one of the more unique stories I’ve read this year and I imagine it will end up in my top 10. I can’t say enough good things about it. This is a definite recommend from me.
August 13, 2016
4.5 stars
Such gorgeous writing! Dark, but beautiful.
He was the deep, dark swamp on the edge of the bayou. Even then I felt him calling me. My body yearned for him, to go to him, to wrap myself in his dark waters and inhale deeply until I drowned.
Such gorgeous writing! Dark, but beautiful.
August 9, 2016
As he began to slowly shove inside me, he said, “I’ll never let anyone hurt you, Levi.” “I know,” I replied breathlessly. He licked up the back of my neck, pressed his lips to my ear. “No one but me.”
Aaaaand Nash Summers has done it again. I have loved everything I’ve read by this author and even though evil spirits and ghosts are not my forte, the execution was excellent and totally won me over.
Levi and Monroe are amazing characters. They personify good and evil in so many ways which becomes even more explosive due to their intense attraction. Levi craves the darkness and he sees it immediately in Monroe. Monroe has a horrid childhood tragedy following him along with a curse making even people not aware of the otherworld physically recoil from him.
Horror is in integral part of the story and it is done exceptionally well. From the swamp and the snakes around Monroe’s neck and body that only Levi can see, to the evil spirit haunting Monroe’s house by the bayou, it’s all there to creep you the hell out and make you want to duck under your covers. The story gives out a very atmospheric, eerie vibe that does not wane until the end. Best of all, the sexual attraction between Levi and Monroe is super intense. Levi can see the evil in Monroe and it makes him physically sick. But for all the evil inside him, Monroe still gives off weak signs that his soul is good, simply overridden by the curse. The author managed to tag them with a “forbidden romance” vibe in a fantastic way and the element of horror follows even their sexual encounters, which we only see a couple of, but believe me, they are scorching hot and extremely sensual.
He touched his lips to the sensitive skin below my ear. “That’s not what you want to say to me, Levi,” he said in a low voice. “You want to beg me to fuck you. I can see it written all over that pretty face.” “You’re an animal.” I meant for it come off as an insult, but I sounded out of breath. “And you love it.”
The story is completely focused on the curse and the effects it has on Monroe and Levi. The side-characters play important roles and are all unique in their own ways. I wondered who Ward really was for the majority of the book and I was pretty satisfied that I wasn’t left hanging when it came to him. Silvi, the ghost girl, is an amazing little sister to Levi and a cute character as well.
Even if you’re not a big fan of paranormal stories with curses and chants and spells, this is a very well-written one that deserves the chance to recruit you to the sub-genre.
Recommend!
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. See this review on Gay Book Reviews.
Aaaaand Nash Summers has done it again. I have loved everything I’ve read by this author and even though evil spirits and ghosts are not my forte, the execution was excellent and totally won me over.
Levi and Monroe are amazing characters. They personify good and evil in so many ways which becomes even more explosive due to their intense attraction. Levi craves the darkness and he sees it immediately in Monroe. Monroe has a horrid childhood tragedy following him along with a curse making even people not aware of the otherworld physically recoil from him.
Horror is in integral part of the story and it is done exceptionally well. From the swamp and the snakes around Monroe’s neck and body that only Levi can see, to the evil spirit haunting Monroe’s house by the bayou, it’s all there to creep you the hell out and make you want to duck under your covers. The story gives out a very atmospheric, eerie vibe that does not wane until the end. Best of all, the sexual attraction between Levi and Monroe is super intense. Levi can see the evil in Monroe and it makes him physically sick. But for all the evil inside him, Monroe still gives off weak signs that his soul is good, simply overridden by the curse. The author managed to tag them with a “forbidden romance” vibe in a fantastic way and the element of horror follows even their sexual encounters, which we only see a couple of, but believe me, they are scorching hot and extremely sensual.
He touched his lips to the sensitive skin below my ear. “That’s not what you want to say to me, Levi,” he said in a low voice. “You want to beg me to fuck you. I can see it written all over that pretty face.” “You’re an animal.” I meant for it come off as an insult, but I sounded out of breath. “And you love it.”
The story is completely focused on the curse and the effects it has on Monroe and Levi. The side-characters play important roles and are all unique in their own ways. I wondered who Ward really was for the majority of the book and I was pretty satisfied that I wasn’t left hanging when it came to him. Silvi, the ghost girl, is an amazing little sister to Levi and a cute character as well.
Even if you’re not a big fan of paranormal stories with curses and chants and spells, this is a very well-written one that deserves the chance to recruit you to the sub-genre.
Recommend!
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. See this review on Gay Book Reviews.
October 20, 2022
Creepy, gothic, atmospheric read that I’m happy I picked up at this time of year as we approach the spooky Halloween season.
3.75 stars.
3.75 stars.
August 9, 2016
Poison Tongue made my favorite list of supernatural reads. Boy!!! Was this book AMAZING! It hit the paranormal/supernatural theme spot on. The darkness was like a temptress seducing me till the end of the story. It was unexpectedly great. The mystery/supernatural part was not tacky and was used with the ultimate effect. And then there is the romance. Monroe Poirier was the DARKNESS and Levi Bell cannot resist him even if he ends up losing his soul. The romance was slow building but the anticipation kept me on my toes. I could not keep this book aside for a single minute. It was that AWESOME!!!
Levi Bell has an unusual gift. He can see people’s soul. The darkness beckons him like a temptress and wants to consume him in its dark depths but Levi has fought its temptation all his life. But when Monroe Poirier comes to town, Levi is drawn to his darkness like a moth to the flame. Monroe’s soul is the darkest and most dangerous soul Levi has ever come in contact with and he is warned by his family to stay away from the guy but that’s easier said than done. Levi cannot stop himself to be drawn to Monroe and Monroe’s feelings for Levi are no less strong. They both know that nothing good can happen if they come together but Levi can’t give Monroe up. Through the darkness of Monroe’s soul, Levi has seen glimpses of a soul more dazzling than the sun and now it is upto Levi to rescue the man he loves from the CURSE that is killing him slowly each day.
I loved the darkness painted by the author here. It was mysterious, seductive and addictive. Levi Bell is a magnet to all things dark whereas his soul is one of the purest. He is innocent and pure but he also yearns for the darkness to devour him. Levi is shown as battling his inner desires all the time. He knows he can’t stay away from it but he also knows that the price of surrendering to it is his soul. Darkness is like a siren’s song to him. His attraction to Monroe was instantaneous. Levi is drawn to his soul which is darker than the night. Levi goes against his instincts and all the warnings from his family to help Monroe. Levi’s unusual pull towards darkness brings him and Monroe together. It was as if Levi’s love for the evil was there just so he could meet his soulmate.
“Evil things love me. And it’s so damn tough trying not to love them back. ~ Levi”
Monroe Poirier is the bad boy of Malcome. No one wants him there. People even without supernatural abilities, detests him and could feel the dark aura surrounding him. Monroe is met with a lot of hostility when he shifts to his old family house. The Poirier house is the cesspool of EVIL. Evil lives and breathes there and Monroe is connected to it by a curse that will end with his life. The visualization of Monroe’s dark soul was brilliant. The manifestation of his curse is a black snake with yellow eyes slithering all over him and always wrapped around him in some way. The way the author describes the depth of his curse was brilliant. I just cannot get the imagery out of my head, even after a whole day of reading this book.
“I wondered if I was staring at a man or a monster. He slipped between the two, not allowing me to see his true self. Maybe he didn’t even know who he was. ~ Levi”
The entire setting of the read complimented the dark nature of the story completely. The Louisiana summer heat along with the dark, beckoning waters of the bayou gave me the creeps and was the perfect backdrop for this supernatural romance. This read reminded me of Anna Rice’s works and New Orleans. It was sultry and Evil but attractive nonetheless.
The heat factor of the read was sky high (literally!!!) Apart from the Louisiana heat, Monroe and Levi manage to create a pretty sizzling romance. Their romance was like a slow burn and the one time Levi do give in to the dark was HOT, HOT, HOT!!!!
The secondary characters in this book were amazingly done. Levi’s entire family is gifted and everyone has a connection to the other world. Sweet little Silvi, Levi’s sister can see ghosts and they are her constant companion. Silvi is not scared of ghosts, she is fond of them. Levi’s mother is a psychic and she warns Levi in the start to stay away from Monroe and the bayou but later she helps him in ridding Monroe of his curse. Then there is Levi’s best friend, Ward. He was a silent character who spoke very less and always protected Levi. The truth about him stunned me. I was completely shocked and I LOVED IT!!! And last but not the least there was Levi’s Gran. She is deceased but Levi reaches out to her spirit for advice. She is mentioned in flashbacks and had a profound effect on the entire story.
The ending was thrilling. Evil spirits and curses be damned, watch out for Levi coming to kick your asses to hell and beyond. I am a big fan of supernatural, the tv series and all the demonic curses, Voodoo, mojo bags, symbols written in blood and then destroying the spirit took me back to all the demon fighting, we see in each episode by the Winchester Brothers.
Bottom line, this is an amazing book. It has everything required to make for a gripping supernatural read. I really, really enjoyed it. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
RECOMMENDED!!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
Levi Bell has an unusual gift. He can see people’s soul. The darkness beckons him like a temptress and wants to consume him in its dark depths but Levi has fought its temptation all his life. But when Monroe Poirier comes to town, Levi is drawn to his darkness like a moth to the flame. Monroe’s soul is the darkest and most dangerous soul Levi has ever come in contact with and he is warned by his family to stay away from the guy but that’s easier said than done. Levi cannot stop himself to be drawn to Monroe and Monroe’s feelings for Levi are no less strong. They both know that nothing good can happen if they come together but Levi can’t give Monroe up. Through the darkness of Monroe’s soul, Levi has seen glimpses of a soul more dazzling than the sun and now it is upto Levi to rescue the man he loves from the CURSE that is killing him slowly each day.
I loved the darkness painted by the author here. It was mysterious, seductive and addictive. Levi Bell is a magnet to all things dark whereas his soul is one of the purest. He is innocent and pure but he also yearns for the darkness to devour him. Levi is shown as battling his inner desires all the time. He knows he can’t stay away from it but he also knows that the price of surrendering to it is his soul. Darkness is like a siren’s song to him. His attraction to Monroe was instantaneous. Levi is drawn to his soul which is darker than the night. Levi goes against his instincts and all the warnings from his family to help Monroe. Levi’s unusual pull towards darkness brings him and Monroe together. It was as if Levi’s love for the evil was there just so he could meet his soulmate.
“Evil things love me. And it’s so damn tough trying not to love them back. ~ Levi”
Monroe Poirier is the bad boy of Malcome. No one wants him there. People even without supernatural abilities, detests him and could feel the dark aura surrounding him. Monroe is met with a lot of hostility when he shifts to his old family house. The Poirier house is the cesspool of EVIL. Evil lives and breathes there and Monroe is connected to it by a curse that will end with his life. The visualization of Monroe’s dark soul was brilliant. The manifestation of his curse is a black snake with yellow eyes slithering all over him and always wrapped around him in some way. The way the author describes the depth of his curse was brilliant. I just cannot get the imagery out of my head, even after a whole day of reading this book.
“I wondered if I was staring at a man or a monster. He slipped between the two, not allowing me to see his true self. Maybe he didn’t even know who he was. ~ Levi”
The entire setting of the read complimented the dark nature of the story completely. The Louisiana summer heat along with the dark, beckoning waters of the bayou gave me the creeps and was the perfect backdrop for this supernatural romance. This read reminded me of Anna Rice’s works and New Orleans. It was sultry and Evil but attractive nonetheless.
The heat factor of the read was sky high (literally!!!) Apart from the Louisiana heat, Monroe and Levi manage to create a pretty sizzling romance. Their romance was like a slow burn and the one time Levi do give in to the dark was HOT, HOT, HOT!!!!
The secondary characters in this book were amazingly done. Levi’s entire family is gifted and everyone has a connection to the other world. Sweet little Silvi, Levi’s sister can see ghosts and they are her constant companion. Silvi is not scared of ghosts, she is fond of them. Levi’s mother is a psychic and she warns Levi in the start to stay away from Monroe and the bayou but later she helps him in ridding Monroe of his curse. Then there is Levi’s best friend, Ward. He was a silent character who spoke very less and always protected Levi. The truth about him stunned me. I was completely shocked and I LOVED IT!!! And last but not the least there was Levi’s Gran. She is deceased but Levi reaches out to her spirit for advice. She is mentioned in flashbacks and had a profound effect on the entire story.
The ending was thrilling. Evil spirits and curses be damned, watch out for Levi coming to kick your asses to hell and beyond. I am a big fan of supernatural, the tv series and all the demonic curses, Voodoo, mojo bags, symbols written in blood and then destroying the spirit took me back to all the demon fighting, we see in each episode by the Winchester Brothers.
Bottom line, this is an amazing book. It has everything required to make for a gripping supernatural read. I really, really enjoyed it. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
RECOMMENDED!!!!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
November 3, 2024
What can I say, I fell under the spell of Levi & Monroe's story and it held me captive until the very end!
Poison Tongue is a dark, languid, twisted, gorgeously written and hauntingly atmospheric mystery with elements of supernatural and horror, with two lost and lonely souls but Oh-So-engaging protagonists. This is the kind of book that sucks you into its world wholly and completely and I LOVED IT!
The very improbable romance, full of ups and downs worked so well for me, the more difficult the relationship, the better! This was charged with powerful feelings, dark sensuality and it was so intoxicating and addictive.
The author did such a great job of creating suspense with the small town and the sinister swamp. This swamp has a life and a character of its own that was both creepy and mesmerizing.
It's a fabulous read through and through. I would give more than 5 Stars if I could!
Poison Tongue is a dark, languid, twisted, gorgeously written and hauntingly atmospheric mystery with elements of supernatural and horror, with two lost and lonely souls but Oh-So-engaging protagonists. This is the kind of book that sucks you into its world wholly and completely and I LOVED IT!
The very improbable romance, full of ups and downs worked so well for me, the more difficult the relationship, the better! This was charged with powerful feelings, dark sensuality and it was so intoxicating and addictive.
The author did such a great job of creating suspense with the small town and the sinister swamp. This swamp has a life and a character of its own that was both creepy and mesmerizing.
It's a fabulous read through and through. I would give more than 5 Stars if I could!
August 9, 2016
Wow. That's the first thing out of my mouth when I finished reading it. This book was super confusing at first, and then wildly descriptive when I paid attention to it. Gothic Romance isn't my thing, and I only wanted to read it based off the cover of the book. I love the cover. Then once I started reading it, was super hard to put down. Summers has a way with the words and characters of this story that left me awe in a way. Small cast of characters that were so well written and developed. I'm dying to know what book two can be about. I don't want Monroe & Levi to have to suffer. And can I say, Ward hands down is my favorite character!!! I loved him.
It's a slow burn featuring supernatural aspects dealing with good vs evil. Light and darkness and the ability to withstand any hardship. It's a small town where everyone knows everyone and of course everyone knows Monroe Poirier. He's the cursed devil who killed his father. I love that Levi is warned almost instantly to stay away from Monroe, not because he can see his tar stained soul, but because Monroe lives in the Poirier house who is backed against the swamp. The same swamp that calls to Levi nightly. It wants to take Levi and give him all the badness it can. In this story, the swamp is definitely a character. The way Levi describes it; it's painstakingly beautiful at times. I love all the imagery that the authors, super vivid descriptions, colors, and feelings.
The romance between Levi & Monroe is a slowly building. They are pushing and pulling against wanting each other and staying away. I love the protection that both guys feel toward one another. I like how determined Levi is to protect Monroe, he wants to show Monroe that just because his life has been horrible, up until this point that Levi will do everything in his power to help him. Including hurting himself indeed. I'm shocked at how much I enjoyed it. I don't want to give much of the plot away but I think people will love it. I'm so looking forward to book two.
Whatever darkness Monroe brought with him into the sunflower field, Ward brushed it all away. He was sunshine and glee, an ease in my bones, lightness in my mind. He would always be able to take away my darkness, turn my nightmares into daydreams.
It's a slow burn featuring supernatural aspects dealing with good vs evil. Light and darkness and the ability to withstand any hardship. It's a small town where everyone knows everyone and of course everyone knows Monroe Poirier. He's the cursed devil who killed his father. I love that Levi is warned almost instantly to stay away from Monroe, not because he can see his tar stained soul, but because Monroe lives in the Poirier house who is backed against the swamp. The same swamp that calls to Levi nightly. It wants to take Levi and give him all the badness it can. In this story, the swamp is definitely a character. The way Levi describes it; it's painstakingly beautiful at times. I love all the imagery that the authors, super vivid descriptions, colors, and feelings.
I hoped my soul would forgive me for giving my heart to the devil.
The romance between Levi & Monroe is a slowly building. They are pushing and pulling against wanting each other and staying away. I love the protection that both guys feel toward one another. I like how determined Levi is to protect Monroe, he wants to show Monroe that just because his life has been horrible, up until this point that Levi will do everything in his power to help him. Including hurting himself indeed. I'm shocked at how much I enjoyed it. I don't want to give much of the plot away but I think people will love it. I'm so looking forward to book two.
"Levi," he said softly.
I stared up into his eyes.
His smile was beautiful. "Tell me
what it looks like. Tell me you can see my soul."
dnf
July 13, 2022dnf @ 23%
I can’t believe this is the same Nash Summers that wrote Carte Blanche and Arrows Through Archer. Maybe it’s some kind of identity theft? 🤯
This book read like… someone’s first attempt at writing fanfic, perhaps. Simplistic, juvenile, purple-prosey at times — which was frankly horrifying — and dramatic and ott as hell.
Needless to say…
I can’t believe this is the same Nash Summers that wrote Carte Blanche and Arrows Through Archer. Maybe it’s some kind of identity theft? 🤯
This book read like… someone’s first attempt at writing fanfic, perhaps. Simplistic, juvenile, purple-prosey at times — which was frankly horrifying — and dramatic and ott as hell.
It didn’t hit me like the memory of my dream. It shoved against me slowly, like a mammoth pounding against a door I was desperately trying to close. His gaze sent my heart into a frenzy, my stomach into recoil, my mind into a kaleidoscope.
“His eyes—his soul—they’re covered in soot and tar. They’re molten and poisonous.”
[…]his frozen gaze led to ice fields that covered his soul.
Needless to say…
October 12, 2021
If I’d have read this before I read “Arrows Through Archer” I might have given it more stars. After all, I bought and read it because Arrows just blew me away.
This was totally different and I liked it ok. I have to admit I’m not a huge fan of horror stories. I also have to agree with another review I read that complained it tended to be repetitive. My other complaint was that after all this build up when they actually faced the ghost the resolution seemed too easy.
I did think that Malcome and Levi were very hot together.
This was totally different and I liked it ok. I have to admit I’m not a huge fan of horror stories. I also have to agree with another review I read that complained it tended to be repetitive. My other complaint was that after all this build up when they actually faced the ghost the resolution seemed too easy.
I did think that Malcome and Levi were very hot together.
September 11, 2024
This had so many great elements but unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of the pacing. The creep factor in this one was solid, which was exactly what I wanted, the worldbuilding was unique and interesting and I enjoyed the romance. The big downfall for me was that the pacing was completely wrong for this type of story.
I loved the way the author wove together magical elements with the culture and climate of Louisiana, which created the perfect backdrop for this creepy gothic dark romance. Levi and his family have been involved in the world of magic/spirits for generations and this manifests by Levi being able to see people's souls through their eyes (ie if they have a good soul or a bad one), his young sister Silvi can see ghosts and his mom and grandma can do seances and know some basic other witchcraft. In addition to using these character to showcase different types of magic, the author also showcased various cultural spiritual practices that exist in that part of the south, including voodoo, hoodoo, tarot and other things. I would have loved for the author to go more in depth with the different magical practices and with the magical elements overall, but I'll discuss that complaint later. But in terms of the positives - I love that the author incorporated a lot of different magic practices and tied them very strongly to the characters, their histories and the swamp that their small town is located next to.
I also liked the romance progression, despite the pacing not being what I wanted. I loved Monroe's dark, tragic history and how the author had the MCs bond through dark, magical situations but also through normal, light hearted ones. For example, there would be heart pounding scenes such as when and there were very sweet scenes such as when .
The creep factor of the story was also high. If you're squeamish when it comes to gore, this wouldn't be the book for you. I usually have a high tolerance for this kind of stuff in written form (though I can't watch any scary movies) but the scene where the author describes how the evil spirit looked when the characters were all at the top of the stairs in Monroe's house was almost too much for me. I was reading the story in broad daylight, on a noisy bus and I got so freaked out by the description of this evil, rotting, mangled thing that I had to stop reading for a minute. But to be honest, the repeated descriptions of the evil spirit are the biggest 'jump scare' in the story. The creep factor in the rest comes from Levi losing his ability to control his own actions and thoughts when he's around any dark spirit and he gets himself into some pretty hairy situations.
Now for the negatives. This book had such huge potential but unfortunately, I didn't feel the author went all in with this one. The first half was boring and repetitive with Levi knowing he's attracted to Monroe due to the latter's soul having been cursed (ie because Levi's drawn to dark things) but also knowing he shouldn't go near him so there's a lot of hot/cold happening from Levi towards Monroe and there are countless scenes of people in Levi's life telling him to stay away from Monroe. The repetition was the biggest problem because the same things happened over and over again. People telling Levi to stay away from Monroe. Levi sleepwalking during his nightmares and ending up . Silvi drawing/liking ghosts. Levi staring at the black serpent that was always winding its way around Monroe's body. These scenes happened over and over again, to the point where I got bored.
What puzzled me about the slow pacing is that it hinges on Levi and his family considering Monroe evil due to the curse on his soul and not wanting anything to do with him. But Levi's family would be in a better position than most to understand that this isn't Monroe's fault and it's not permanent. Levi is literally attracted to dark/evil things yet nobody writes him off as a lost cause and Levi's situation seems to be permanent. Monroe's situation is a difficult one (the curse was cast by somebody very motivated and very knowledgeable about dark magic) but there's no question that it's temporary and it's absolutely not Monroe's fault. Monroe was just 8 years old when he was cursed, which should automatically make people think twice about judging him so harshly. So I didn't understand why it took until 80% (!!) for the characters to start trying to break the curse.
Sure, Levi does a bit of research at the halfway mark where he figures out who put the curse on Monroe and why, but this still doesn't result in any of the characters wanting to cut Monroe some slack or wanting to help him. The poor guy has lived with this horrific curse since the age of 8. He has no family or friends since most people can sense that there's something wrong with him and steer clear. In addition, the evil spirit thing (I won't spoil it by revealing who it is) has never left him in peace and is constantly torturing him by doing things like scratching him bloody and other horrible things. Not only that, but the entire situation started when his mom had been murdered and due to circumstances I won't spoil, his father wasn't available. It isn't until he adopts little Coin (an adorable mutt) that he finally gets to experience feeling loved again. And none of this was his fault! So it upset and irritated me that all the characters went the majority of the book not wanting to help him.
Since the curse breaking plotline doesn't actually start until 80%, it's incredibly rushed and IMO, it was resolved too easily. To be honest, by then I'd had enough of seeing the rotting, evil spirit thing because it gave me the creeps but it had also gotten repetitive. I thought one of the main plotlines that would be woven throughout the entire story would be the curse breaking so it was disappointing that it was only a subplot near the end.
In particular, I was looking forward to it because Levi's family don't dabble in complex magic. Their knowledge and skills seem to be standard but not nearly adequate enough to battle something this dark. For example, . It would have been interesting to see the family try more things and gradually increase the complexity and danger level of the techniques they're attempting during the curse breaking. The story also featured other characters who knew more about specific types of witchcraft than Levi's family did so making the curse breaking a bigger plotline would have been the perfect vehicle to add more excitement and educate readers more about the magical practices that have existed in Louisiana for hundreds of years.
I also had some other issues with the story:
1. Having the curse breaking take place so late in the story meant we didn't get to spend a lot of time with non-cursed Monroe. In fact, the final scene had a lengthy description of Monroe's new car but we only get to see Monroe interact with Levi for a few sentences.
2. Every single smut scene between the MCs was a result of Monroe allowing his cursed soul to take over and Levi being uncontrollably attracted to that darkness. I wasn't a huge fan of these scenes because I couldn't tell if either character was actually into what was happening or if they were under the control of other forces. In addition, once we find out what/who the evil spirit is and its description, I really didn't want that thing being incorporated into the smut scenes in any way and having Monroe act like he's completely under the control of the dark magic inside him made it impossible to enjoy the scene.
3. This was a minor issue, but the situation with Ward made me uncomfortable. It's not a huge part of the story so I'm going to put it under a spoiler tag if you want to skip it.
Overall, this story was really unique and creative and I did enjoy the romance but the pacing was too slow overall and I wish the author had spent much more time on the curse breaking. Despite the dark premise, it often felt like the author was holding back from making things as intense and interesting as they could be, which was too bad because all the ingredients were there to make this a really great story.
I loved the way the author wove together magical elements with the culture and climate of Louisiana, which created the perfect backdrop for this creepy gothic dark romance. Levi and his family have been involved in the world of magic/spirits for generations and this manifests by Levi being able to see people's souls through their eyes (ie if they have a good soul or a bad one), his young sister Silvi can see ghosts and his mom and grandma can do seances and know some basic other witchcraft. In addition to using these character to showcase different types of magic, the author also showcased various cultural spiritual practices that exist in that part of the south, including voodoo, hoodoo, tarot and other things. I would have loved for the author to go more in depth with the different magical practices and with the magical elements overall, but I'll discuss that complaint later. But in terms of the positives - I love that the author incorporated a lot of different magic practices and tied them very strongly to the characters, their histories and the swamp that their small town is located next to.
I also liked the romance progression, despite the pacing not being what I wanted. I loved Monroe's dark, tragic history and how the author had the MCs bond through dark, magical situations but also through normal, light hearted ones. For example, there would be heart pounding scenes such as when and there were very sweet scenes such as when .
The creep factor of the story was also high. If you're squeamish when it comes to gore, this wouldn't be the book for you. I usually have a high tolerance for this kind of stuff in written form (though I can't watch any scary movies) but the scene where the author describes how the evil spirit looked when the characters were all at the top of the stairs in Monroe's house was almost too much for me. I was reading the story in broad daylight, on a noisy bus and I got so freaked out by the description of this evil, rotting, mangled thing that I had to stop reading for a minute. But to be honest, the repeated descriptions of the evil spirit are the biggest 'jump scare' in the story. The creep factor in the rest comes from Levi losing his ability to control his own actions and thoughts when he's around any dark spirit and he gets himself into some pretty hairy situations.
Now for the negatives. This book had such huge potential but unfortunately, I didn't feel the author went all in with this one. The first half was boring and repetitive with Levi knowing he's attracted to Monroe due to the latter's soul having been cursed (ie because Levi's drawn to dark things) but also knowing he shouldn't go near him so there's a lot of hot/cold happening from Levi towards Monroe and there are countless scenes of people in Levi's life telling him to stay away from Monroe. The repetition was the biggest problem because the same things happened over and over again. People telling Levi to stay away from Monroe. Levi sleepwalking during his nightmares and ending up . Silvi drawing/liking ghosts. Levi staring at the black serpent that was always winding its way around Monroe's body. These scenes happened over and over again, to the point where I got bored.
What puzzled me about the slow pacing is that it hinges on Levi and his family considering Monroe evil due to the curse on his soul and not wanting anything to do with him. But Levi's family would be in a better position than most to understand that this isn't Monroe's fault and it's not permanent. Levi is literally attracted to dark/evil things yet nobody writes him off as a lost cause and Levi's situation seems to be permanent. Monroe's situation is a difficult one (the curse was cast by somebody very motivated and very knowledgeable about dark magic) but there's no question that it's temporary and it's absolutely not Monroe's fault. Monroe was just 8 years old when he was cursed, which should automatically make people think twice about judging him so harshly. So I didn't understand why it took until 80% (!!) for the characters to start trying to break the curse.
Sure, Levi does a bit of research at the halfway mark where he figures out who put the curse on Monroe and why, but this still doesn't result in any of the characters wanting to cut Monroe some slack or wanting to help him. The poor guy has lived with this horrific curse since the age of 8. He has no family or friends since most people can sense that there's something wrong with him and steer clear. In addition, the evil spirit thing (I won't spoil it by revealing who it is) has never left him in peace and is constantly torturing him by doing things like scratching him bloody and other horrible things. Not only that, but the entire situation started when his mom had been murdered and due to circumstances I won't spoil, his father wasn't available. It isn't until he adopts little Coin (an adorable mutt) that he finally gets to experience feeling loved again. And none of this was his fault! So it upset and irritated me that all the characters went the majority of the book not wanting to help him.
Since the curse breaking plotline doesn't actually start until 80%, it's incredibly rushed and IMO, it was resolved too easily. To be honest, by then I'd had enough of seeing the rotting, evil spirit thing because it gave me the creeps but it had also gotten repetitive. I thought one of the main plotlines that would be woven throughout the entire story would be the curse breaking so it was disappointing that it was only a subplot near the end.
In particular, I was looking forward to it because Levi's family don't dabble in complex magic. Their knowledge and skills seem to be standard but not nearly adequate enough to battle something this dark. For example, . It would have been interesting to see the family try more things and gradually increase the complexity and danger level of the techniques they're attempting during the curse breaking. The story also featured other characters who knew more about specific types of witchcraft than Levi's family did so making the curse breaking a bigger plotline would have been the perfect vehicle to add more excitement and educate readers more about the magical practices that have existed in Louisiana for hundreds of years.
I also had some other issues with the story:
1. Having the curse breaking take place so late in the story meant we didn't get to spend a lot of time with non-cursed Monroe. In fact, the final scene had a lengthy description of Monroe's new car but we only get to see Monroe interact with Levi for a few sentences.
2. Every single smut scene between the MCs was a result of Monroe allowing his cursed soul to take over and Levi being uncontrollably attracted to that darkness. I wasn't a huge fan of these scenes because I couldn't tell if either character was actually into what was happening or if they were under the control of other forces. In addition, once we find out what/who the evil spirit is and its description, I really didn't want that thing being incorporated into the smut scenes in any way and having Monroe act like he's completely under the control of the dark magic inside him made it impossible to enjoy the scene.
3. This was a minor issue, but the situation with Ward made me uncomfortable. It's not a huge part of the story so I'm going to put it under a spoiler tag if you want to skip it.
Overall, this story was really unique and creative and I did enjoy the romance but the pacing was too slow overall and I wish the author had spent much more time on the curse breaking. Despite the dark premise, it often felt like the author was holding back from making things as intense and interesting as they could be, which was too bad because all the ingredients were there to make this a really great story.
August 11, 2016
"And by the way his aura sings when you're around, I think that darkness would follow you to the ends of the earth."
After spending half the day curled into the same spot refusing to move until I read the very last line - I am finally done with this beauty and I wish I wasn't just so I could experience reading this beauty again for the very first time. Forgive me for this sure messy review that is about to take place but my heart is shaped around the name's Levi and Monroe right now and I need to just tell the world ( or whoever reads this ) how much I loved this.
Poison Tongue had everything. Hauntingly beautiful characters that all seem to be interesting in their own type of way. A gripping plot that left me completely hooked until the very end and even that had my heart begging for more. Plot twists that to me weren't predictable at all and held my interest. Sweet, sweet pining. Some very erotic moments that had my tongue hanging out. And, some very dark paranormal moments to ice it all off.
I always, always seem get attached to misunderstood characters and boy did Poison Tongue have some misunderstood characters. Levi can see people's souls which is quite beautiful and terrifying in all ways it can be.I quickly grew a soft spot for Monroe Poirier. Monroe is a man with, saying it simply, a very dark soul and Levi Bell knows this but still can't help but be drawn to him in every single possible way. I saw Levi as this strong, brave character who didn't let the darkness keep him from the one he loved. My love for the characters didn't stop at the main two I fell in love with so many of the secondary characters too. This is one of those books where the characters are just written so beautifully that it's hard not to fall in love with them. But, it's probably just because of Nash's beautiful writing and her way lovely way bringing her characters to life.
All in all, I adored every single moment of this and not only can Nash right one hell of a young adult romance or short pining story she can also write one hell of a gothic story. And, now I must go recommend it to anyone who will listen to me. Thank you, Nash, for writing this gorgeous book. x
After spending half the day curled into the same spot refusing to move until I read the very last line - I am finally done with this beauty and I wish I wasn't just so I could experience reading this beauty again for the very first time. Forgive me for this sure messy review that is about to take place but my heart is shaped around the name's Levi and Monroe right now and I need to just tell the world ( or whoever reads this ) how much I loved this.
Poison Tongue had everything. Hauntingly beautiful characters that all seem to be interesting in their own type of way. A gripping plot that left me completely hooked until the very end and even that had my heart begging for more. Plot twists that to me weren't predictable at all and held my interest. Sweet, sweet pining. Some very erotic moments that had my tongue hanging out. And, some very dark paranormal moments to ice it all off.
I always, always seem get attached to misunderstood characters and boy did Poison Tongue have some misunderstood characters. Levi can see people's souls which is quite beautiful and terrifying in all ways it can be.I quickly grew a soft spot for Monroe Poirier. Monroe is a man with, saying it simply, a very dark soul and Levi Bell knows this but still can't help but be drawn to him in every single possible way. I saw Levi as this strong, brave character who didn't let the darkness keep him from the one he loved. My love for the characters didn't stop at the main two I fell in love with so many of the secondary characters too. This is one of those books where the characters are just written so beautifully that it's hard not to fall in love with them. But, it's probably just because of Nash's beautiful writing and her way lovely way bringing her characters to life.
All in all, I adored every single moment of this and not only can Nash right one hell of a young adult romance or short pining story she can also write one hell of a gothic story. And, now I must go recommend it to anyone who will listen to me. Thank you, Nash, for writing this gorgeous book. x
May 24, 2017
This being Nash Summers, I really wanted to give it more than three stars, but... Sigh.
Sadly, I found this to be a little repetitive and a trifle anti-climactic. The constant reminders of Levi's attachment to the swamp and his fate to be drawn to evil felt overdone. The change in his perception of Monroe and the breaking of the curse were both rather abrupt. With the curse breaking, especially, I didn't feel any real tension or danger. Also, the fact that Ward wasn't 'usual' was very apparent, but the eventual reveal didn't have a big impact on the story as a whole.
Apart from those niggles, that might just be all me, this had the expected beautiful style I really enjoy, an intriguing concept and great characters that hallmark Summers. This one might not have appealed to me as much as her other stories, but it's still an above par read.
Sadly, I found this to be a little repetitive and a trifle anti-climactic. The constant reminders of Levi's attachment to the swamp and his fate to be drawn to evil felt overdone. The change in his perception of Monroe and the breaking of the curse were both rather abrupt. With the curse breaking, especially, I didn't feel any real tension or danger. Also, the fact that Ward wasn't 'usual' was very apparent, but the eventual reveal didn't have a big impact on the story as a whole.
Apart from those niggles, that might just be all me, this had the expected beautiful style I really enjoy, an intriguing concept and great characters that hallmark Summers. This one might not have appealed to me as much as her other stories, but it's still an above par read.
January 6, 2017
Contains minor spoilers.
Poison Tongue crosses a lot of genres: southern Gothic, m/m and paranormal romance. The first person story telling is simple yet evocative. It reminded me in some ways of Anne Rice’s The Witching Hour; only less detailed, much shorter and less ornate. I really enjoyed Poison Tongue and the only thing that stopped it from garnering 5 stars is that I was craving more story, detail and character development.
The story is told by 22 year old Levi Bell. Levi lives with his Mama, 8 year old sister Silvi and larger than life presence of his deceased Gran in the small town of Malcome Louisiana. Malcome is surrounded by a bayou that was almost as big as the town itself and the townsfolk knew to steer clear of the swamp as it was universally believed to be evil and haunted. Levi knew there really was something about the swamp that wasn’t right; because he – like the rest of his family – has a gift.
Levi grew up in a house that practiced rituals, card readings, cleansings, spells and hoodoo. His little sister can see ghosts. His Gran could see the future. Levi can look into a person’s eyes and see their soul. He’s also a magnet for darkness. “My heart loved wicked things. It loved the darkness and the horrors of things that crept through the swamp under a midnight moon”. The evil called to his heart and ever since he could remember it howled his name and he so badly wanted to reply. But he fought to curb the impulses that clawed at him – even when they caused him to sleepwalk right into the swamp – waking up with damp bed-sheets, caked in mud and smelling of the swamp water- because he knew the darkness could never love him back. (that and one of these days he was gonna drown in that swamp).
Aside from avoiding the darkness that sucks at his soul, Levi has no aspirations it seems other than to don his gold bangles, braided black feather bracelets and beaded necklaces and hang out with his family, walk around town talking to himself; I mean talking to his “best friend” Ward, occasionally communing with his dead Gran and working at Mercy’s Diner. That is until the bad seed comes back to roost in the form of the hot as hell Monroe Poirier; who returns to his childhood home - the dilapidated (evil and haunted) house located on the edge of town and backed right onto the marshlands with a dock in the back that stretched far out into the swamp.
Monroe is the bane of the townspeople who think he’s a murderer a fiend a monster, the Devil made flesh. Which is surprising since it’s only Levi who can actually see the snakes made of smoke that coil themselves around Monroe’s body and become a darkness that surrounds him . Monroe is cursed and it’s slowly eating his soul turning him into the monster it wants him to be. Levi is both deathly afraid of Monroe and also magnetically drawn to him – the connection between them like an electrical current.
Years ago when Levi was just a child, his Gran told him that “one day you’ll fall in love with the devil. Lord, will you ever love him. And he will love you right back. But remember, Levi, loving a man with darkness on his soul can cause you to lose your own soul. And, sweetheart, I’m not sure if you’d be the same person without your soul” He wants to hate Monroe; but despite his fear and better judgement – the heart wants what the heart wants. And lurking in the blackness of Monroe’s soul Levi can see “a flickering of something gold – something lovely that was crying to be set free”. And his Gran did tell him that while he may lose his soul, it might be worth it because “that’s love ain’t it? The one thing you’d throw almost everything into the pits for”.
Poison Tongue crosses a lot of genres: southern Gothic, m/m and paranormal romance. The first person story telling is simple yet evocative. It reminded me in some ways of Anne Rice’s The Witching Hour; only less detailed, much shorter and less ornate. I really enjoyed Poison Tongue and the only thing that stopped it from garnering 5 stars is that I was craving more story, detail and character development.
The story is told by 22 year old Levi Bell. Levi lives with his Mama, 8 year old sister Silvi and larger than life presence of his deceased Gran in the small town of Malcome Louisiana. Malcome is surrounded by a bayou that was almost as big as the town itself and the townsfolk knew to steer clear of the swamp as it was universally believed to be evil and haunted. Levi knew there really was something about the swamp that wasn’t right; because he – like the rest of his family – has a gift.
Levi grew up in a house that practiced rituals, card readings, cleansings, spells and hoodoo. His little sister can see ghosts. His Gran could see the future. Levi can look into a person’s eyes and see their soul. He’s also a magnet for darkness. “My heart loved wicked things. It loved the darkness and the horrors of things that crept through the swamp under a midnight moon”. The evil called to his heart and ever since he could remember it howled his name and he so badly wanted to reply. But he fought to curb the impulses that clawed at him – even when they caused him to sleepwalk right into the swamp – waking up with damp bed-sheets, caked in mud and smelling of the swamp water- because he knew the darkness could never love him back. (that and one of these days he was gonna drown in that swamp).
Aside from avoiding the darkness that sucks at his soul, Levi has no aspirations it seems other than to don his gold bangles, braided black feather bracelets and beaded necklaces and hang out with his family, walk around town talking to himself; I mean talking to his “best friend” Ward, occasionally communing with his dead Gran and working at Mercy’s Diner. That is until the bad seed comes back to roost in the form of the hot as hell Monroe Poirier; who returns to his childhood home - the dilapidated (evil and haunted) house located on the edge of town and backed right onto the marshlands with a dock in the back that stretched far out into the swamp.
Monroe is the bane of the townspeople who think he’s a murderer a fiend a monster, the Devil made flesh. Which is surprising since it’s only Levi who can actually see the snakes made of smoke that coil themselves around Monroe’s body and become a darkness that surrounds him . Monroe is cursed and it’s slowly eating his soul turning him into the monster it wants him to be. Levi is both deathly afraid of Monroe and also magnetically drawn to him – the connection between them like an electrical current.
Years ago when Levi was just a child, his Gran told him that “one day you’ll fall in love with the devil. Lord, will you ever love him. And he will love you right back. But remember, Levi, loving a man with darkness on his soul can cause you to lose your own soul. And, sweetheart, I’m not sure if you’d be the same person without your soul” He wants to hate Monroe; but despite his fear and better judgement – the heart wants what the heart wants. And lurking in the blackness of Monroe’s soul Levi can see “a flickering of something gold – something lovely that was crying to be set free”. And his Gran did tell him that while he may lose his soul, it might be worth it because “that’s love ain’t it? The one thing you’d throw almost everything into the pits for”.
September 17, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
That was interesting. There were elements I thought were really well done and a bit different...but then other parts dragged a bit for me. I can't quite decide whether to round up or down...I'm thinking up, as I did finish this and I did like it quite a bit.
The main characters Levi & Monroe are supposed to be in their 20s, but for the majority of the read, despite the sex scenes (which admittedly were pretty hot), they seemed more like teenagers to me...Levi was a likable enough character, I just couldn't help but feel he seemed a lot younger than he was.
I loved Silvi though, she was a great little sister, so I wouldn't have minded seeing a little more of her. The secondary character of Levi's friend and colleague Saddie was a strange one for me, as she seemed a very 2D character and I wasn't really sure of her purpose, especially a particular event that happened that seemed a bit unnecessary and I wasn't really sure what it added to the story ...
But all the creepy shit was well done and the stuff around seeing souls was quite imaginative. It had a bit of a gothic feel and was really eery at times with the swamp.
One thing that I couldn't help but notice was that the pacing was a bit off for me. One minute I was racing through and read about 20% in one go before I knew it. Other times, whilst it was good and I was enjoying the read, I found it dragging and I started watching the reading progress bar every couple of percent - never a good sign! I actually almost DNF'd but really wanted to find out about Ward and about the curse on Monroe. I'm glad I pushed on and finished it, as it was a good read overall and it might have just been my mood while reading that made me stall a bit.
That was interesting. There were elements I thought were really well done and a bit different...but then other parts dragged a bit for me. I can't quite decide whether to round up or down...I'm thinking up, as I did finish this and I did like it quite a bit.
The main characters Levi & Monroe are supposed to be in their 20s, but for the majority of the read, despite the sex scenes (which admittedly were pretty hot), they seemed more like teenagers to me...Levi was a likable enough character, I just couldn't help but feel he seemed a lot younger than he was.
I loved Silvi though, she was a great little sister, so I wouldn't have minded seeing a little more of her. The secondary character of Levi's friend and colleague Saddie was a strange one for me, as she seemed a very 2D character and I wasn't really sure of her purpose, especially a particular event that happened that seemed a bit unnecessary and I wasn't really sure what it added to the story ...
But all the creepy shit was well done and the stuff around seeing souls was quite imaginative. It had a bit of a gothic feel and was really eery at times with the swamp.
One thing that I couldn't help but notice was that the pacing was a bit off for me. One minute I was racing through and read about 20% in one go before I knew it. Other times, whilst it was good and I was enjoying the read, I found it dragging and I started watching the reading progress bar every couple of percent - never a good sign! I actually almost DNF'd but really wanted to find out about Ward and about the curse on Monroe. I'm glad I pushed on and finished it, as it was a good read overall and it might have just been my mood while reading that made me stall a bit.
August 21, 2016
It was a very, very good book. The setting, the atmosphere.. the plot.
Southern-gothic at its finest.
Highly recommended.
September 13, 2016
The plot itself is unique and really great. Curses, visions, sexy men. When we finally get to the sex it is so freaking hot! Full Review - http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
January 19, 2017
Not as dark as I expected but truely atmospheric and a great tale about love conquers evil. If there is a thing like swamp gothic than Poison Tongue might be the prime example.
July 20, 2022
Easy re read.
“I hoped my soul would forgive me for giving my heart to the devil.”
I adored Levi and Monroe equally. Ms. Summers manages to not only balance both character’s POVs, the secondaries are always as important.
Monroe’s little flicker of light, his hard fought attraction to Levi, gave us hints of the depth below.
“I bet your soul is the moonlight,” Monroe said softly. “I bet it’s the way a calm river looks when it’s soaked in moonlight.”
I’ll always love the hints of evil lurking behind a character, creating depth. This was a slow burn, enough dark to keep me interested, mixed with a supernatural theme.
MM. CW apply. Nothing is overly visual, it’s dark themed, just not overly dark. Nicely written as always.
“I hoped my soul would forgive me for giving my heart to the devil.”
I adored Levi and Monroe equally. Ms. Summers manages to not only balance both character’s POVs, the secondaries are always as important.
Monroe’s little flicker of light, his hard fought attraction to Levi, gave us hints of the depth below.
“I bet your soul is the moonlight,” Monroe said softly. “I bet it’s the way a calm river looks when it’s soaked in moonlight.”
I’ll always love the hints of evil lurking behind a character, creating depth. This was a slow burn, enough dark to keep me interested, mixed with a supernatural theme.
MM. CW apply. Nothing is overly visual, it’s dark themed, just not overly dark. Nicely written as always.
August 13, 2016
Book – Poison Tongue (Afflicted Souls #1)
Author – Nash Summers
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 200
Cover – Gorgeous!
POV – 1st person, one character POV
Would I read it again – Yes.
Genre – LGBT, Voodoo, Paranormal, Ghost, Spiritual, MM, Romance
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
This was an adventure and a half.
I'll admit, I'm not a fan of 1st person and this story has an example of why. It took 3% for us to find out “our” (the MC's) name and gender. There was no other indication until that point of who “we” were supposed to be, how old, what “we” looked like or who “we” were. It made that first 3% more difficult to visualise.
However, other than that, this was a fantastic glimpse into the bayou, voodoo and the supernatural prospect of being able to see someone's soul through their eyes. Levi was an intriguing character that held my attention the whole way through. He was smart, witty and captivating to read, while having a morbid fascination with 'death' and the swamp. His dreams, nightmares and fears were all laid out for us to witness, allowing us a deeper insight into his needs and psyche.
Similarly, Monroe was just as intriguing. Full of darkness, but with a sparkle of light, he was often more than Levi could handle. Yet, the fact that they worked so well together, bringing darkness and pain to each other that they reveled in, really worked.
The relationship between the MC's isn't your cookie cutter damned-man and rescuer. It's more equal than that. With Monroe dirtying up Levi's already dark soul with more burning desire than he can stand. While Levi brings light and a little bit of justification to Monroe's darkness; an excuse and ample opportunity to let that darkness out.
The storytelling was fantastic, I didn't notice any grammar/spelling issues which is a miracle, and all of the side characters had their place. There wasn't anyone who was useless, any situation that was ridiculous or unimaginable, and no question left unanswered. I really loved the depth of exploration into the practice of hoodoo/voodoo and the way that it was shown in a positive light, without sugar coating the risks, dangers and responsibilities it entails.
Overall, it was a perfect blend of dropping us into the darkness of the swamp and making us love it. Crave it. And wait with baited breath for book two.
~
Favourite Quotes
“He was cataclysmically handsome. But the wicked things always were.”
“I hoped my soul would forgive me for giving my heart to the devil.”
““I'll never let anyone hurt you, Levi.”
“I know,” I replied breathlessly.
He licked up the back of my neck, pressed his lips to my ears. “No one but me.””
Author – Nash Summers
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 200
Cover – Gorgeous!
POV – 1st person, one character POV
Would I read it again – Yes.
Genre – LGBT, Voodoo, Paranormal, Ghost, Spiritual, MM, Romance
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
This was an adventure and a half.
I'll admit, I'm not a fan of 1st person and this story has an example of why. It took 3% for us to find out “our” (the MC's) name and gender. There was no other indication until that point of who “we” were supposed to be, how old, what “we” looked like or who “we” were. It made that first 3% more difficult to visualise.
However, other than that, this was a fantastic glimpse into the bayou, voodoo and the supernatural prospect of being able to see someone's soul through their eyes. Levi was an intriguing character that held my attention the whole way through. He was smart, witty and captivating to read, while having a morbid fascination with 'death' and the swamp. His dreams, nightmares and fears were all laid out for us to witness, allowing us a deeper insight into his needs and psyche.
Similarly, Monroe was just as intriguing. Full of darkness, but with a sparkle of light, he was often more than Levi could handle. Yet, the fact that they worked so well together, bringing darkness and pain to each other that they reveled in, really worked.
The relationship between the MC's isn't your cookie cutter damned-man and rescuer. It's more equal than that. With Monroe dirtying up Levi's already dark soul with more burning desire than he can stand. While Levi brings light and a little bit of justification to Monroe's darkness; an excuse and ample opportunity to let that darkness out.
The storytelling was fantastic, I didn't notice any grammar/spelling issues which is a miracle, and all of the side characters had their place. There wasn't anyone who was useless, any situation that was ridiculous or unimaginable, and no question left unanswered. I really loved the depth of exploration into the practice of hoodoo/voodoo and the way that it was shown in a positive light, without sugar coating the risks, dangers and responsibilities it entails.
Overall, it was a perfect blend of dropping us into the darkness of the swamp and making us love it. Crave it. And wait with baited breath for book two.
~
Favourite Quotes
“He was cataclysmically handsome. But the wicked things always were.”
“I hoped my soul would forgive me for giving my heart to the devil.”
““I'll never let anyone hurt you, Levi.”
“I know,” I replied breathlessly.
He licked up the back of my neck, pressed his lips to my ears. “No one but me.””
August 26, 2016
4.5 stars rounded up.
The romance in this book was probably one of the best I've seen in a while. In only 200 pages (ebook-wise), Summers managed to capture the love between Levi and Monroe. While the romance did begin somewhat with insta-love, there was a clear reason for it. Some may find the reason to be slightly creepy, but I found it as oddly romantic.
Summers' writing was amazing. The descriptions were lovely, yet instrumental in creating the eerie, ominous tone of the story. As I was reading it, I did not feel that the tension in the air was forced and contrived. Much like Levi could feel the darkness, so could I.
The secondary characters were wonderful. Summers managed to focus on them well enough that they felt more than one-dimensional, while also focusing on Levi and Monroe's relationship. I wonder who the main pairing will be in the next story...
One slight niggle I found with the story was the length. I wanted to see more of Levi and Monroe! While the end was satisfying, I do wish that we could have stuck around more to see the changes that would be in store for both Levi and Monroe. But I guess that's what the next installment of this series is for.
A surprisingly fun read, despite the somewhat scary supernatural aspect. I look forward to the next story.
The romance in this book was probably one of the best I've seen in a while. In only 200 pages (ebook-wise), Summers managed to capture the love between Levi and Monroe. While the romance did begin somewhat with insta-love, there was a clear reason for it. Some may find the reason to be slightly creepy, but I found it as oddly romantic.
Summers' writing was amazing. The descriptions were lovely, yet instrumental in creating the eerie, ominous tone of the story. As I was reading it, I did not feel that the tension in the air was forced and contrived. Much like Levi could feel the darkness, so could I.
The secondary characters were wonderful. Summers managed to focus on them well enough that they felt more than one-dimensional, while also focusing on Levi and Monroe's relationship. I wonder who the main pairing will be in the next story...
One slight niggle I found with the story was the length. I wanted to see more of Levi and Monroe! While the end was satisfying, I do wish that we could have stuck around more to see the changes that would be in store for both Levi and Monroe. But I guess that's what the next installment of this series is for.
A surprisingly fun read, despite the somewhat scary supernatural aspect. I look forward to the next story.
August 22, 2016
Absolutely creepy and totally gorgeous - I got into this book very slowly, because I was trying to savor the story and the stunning writing. Eventually, though, I reverted to my speed-reading ways and gobbled this up. I loved everything about this - from the Southern Gothic setting to the blossoming romance that gave me all the feels. One day I'll do a reread. 5+ stars...
August 23, 2016
What a creepy, well developed and written paranormal romance. Sure some parts in this story were weird and ending felt a bit incomplete aka rushed, but still what a great story! In overall from unique point, great story plot.
September 23, 2016
3.75 stars
A quick horror-based read that kept my interest throughout. Although I did see a certain twist () coming from a mile away, I still enjoyed the story.
A quick horror-based read that kept my interest throughout. Although I did see a certain twist () coming from a mile away, I still enjoyed the story.
September 20, 2021
4.5 starts rounded up
I wavered a bit on the rating for this book.
This was really well written; you get a good feel for the town, family, and the general atmosphere easily pulls you into the story. I was surprised at how nail bitingly suspenseful some parts of the story were. Definitely exceeded expectations given the overall length of the book.
I do feel like while the storyline was strong, the characters weren’t as deep as I would have liked them to be. For example, Levi was a reserved character outwardly, but his internal monologue felt reserved as well, so from a readers perspective it wasn’t as easy to connect to him. I’d also have really loved to know more about Ward; we’re told something really surprising and exciting about his character, but it wasn’t explored in any real way afterward.
Plus, in the last 10% of the story a scene would end really abruptly and skip forward in time, which was really disappointing. I had been really excited to see the end results of what they’d been working toward, and ended up feeling slightly cheated out of a satisfying resolution.
So, 4.5 stars rounded up. Well written and edited, I just wish the ending had a little more well rounded.
I wavered a bit on the rating for this book.
This was really well written; you get a good feel for the town, family, and the general atmosphere easily pulls you into the story. I was surprised at how nail bitingly suspenseful some parts of the story were. Definitely exceeded expectations given the overall length of the book.
I do feel like while the storyline was strong, the characters weren’t as deep as I would have liked them to be. For example, Levi was a reserved character outwardly, but his internal monologue felt reserved as well, so from a readers perspective it wasn’t as easy to connect to him. I’d also have really loved to know more about Ward; we’re told something really surprising and exciting about his character, but it wasn’t explored in any real way afterward.
Plus, in the last 10% of the story a scene would end really abruptly and skip forward in time, which was really disappointing. I had been really excited to see the end results of what they’d been working toward, and ended up feeling slightly cheated out of a satisfying resolution.
So, 4.5 stars rounded up. Well written and edited, I just wish the ending had a little more well rounded.
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